The council’s approval of LEI Packaging LLC’s expansion project emerged as a prominent topic. Amanda Oout from the Benton Economic Partnership presented the project details, noting that LEI Packaging intends to expand its facility in Foley, specifically at the former Kent Foods building. The expansion aims to procure manufacturing equipment, focusing on sustainable initiatives like producing molded fiber packaging solutions from recycled materials. This project is expected to generate 25 new jobs with an average hourly wage of approximately $32.

To finance the expansion, LEI Packaging sought $450,000 in forgivable loans from the Minnesota Investment Fund. Amanda clarified that the city would act as an intermediary for these funds, with the state providing the financial resources, thus absolving the city of liability. The total investment for the building and equipment in the project’s first phase is estimated at $12.4 million. Following her presentation, the council opened a public hearing for comments on the Minnesota Investment Funds application but received none. Subsequently, a resolution approving the application for state funding was adopted unanimously.

Infrastructure projects, specifically the final assessment hearing for the 2025 North Side improvements, were another focal point. The project involves reconstructing roads and overlaying specific streets, with costs decreasing from earlier estimates. The final assessment policy outlines how properties adjacent to improvements will be assessed based on front footage, with a 20-year payment term at a 5% interest rate. Concerns were raised by residents about the condition of their properties post-construction. Russ Jur from 431 4th Avenue and Lynn Peterson from 401 3rd Avenue North articulated frustrations about incomplete work and accessibility issues, while Jason from 431 Third Avenue criticized contractor reliability.

In response, the council deferred the public hearing to November 7th for further consideration. Additionally, a deferred special assessment policy was discussed, which would allow residents to postpone assessments under specific conditions like age or military status. The council deliberated income and asset thresholds to determine eligibility for deferral, with a decision required before assessments are submitted to the county by November 30th. The potential implications of accrued interest on deferred assessments were also considered.

Public works was another key discussion, with Mark Thomas addressing contractor work hours and wastewater management. Thomas noted complaints about contractor hours. Wastewater management progress was highlighted, with updates on air release valves and influent numbers. Preparations for winter maintenance were confirmed, including equipment winterization.

The council also tackled city employee benefits, with Sarah Brown proposing a transition to a higher deductible health insurance plan to align with budget constraints. Supplementary voluntary benefits were planned to mitigate impacts on employees. Discussions with union representatives were ongoing to ensure compliance with contracts. Council members acknowledged the challenges of managing rising insurance costs while supporting employees.

In other reports, the police department highlighted an uptick in traffic equipment violations and a successful Halloween safety initiative. The city attorney updated the council on nuisance violations and the progress of the north side improvements project. Two payouts were approved for the north side and lead service projects, with concerns raised about project timelines and resident accessibility during winter.