One of the topics was the ongoing sewer repair project. The council debated whether to finance this significant undertaking through a bond or manage the costs internally. Concerns were raised over an earlier estimate of $180,000, prompting a preference for internal financing, contingent on the engineer’s final estimate aligning with council expectations. The council also examined a portable jetting service bill, attributed to persistent sewer blockages caused by grease buildup from local businesses. Suggestions emerged to advise these establishments on better grease disposal practices to mitigate future issues.

The financial conversations extended to the approval of bills, where inquiries arose about additional items, notably an $8,150 expenditure under the streets and highways machinery and equipment category. A suggestion was made to reallocate funds from future improvements to address negative budget balances. This echoed past budget adjustment concerns, with a proposal to collaborate further to rectify these financial discrepancies. Linked to these concerns were purchases such as a truck and a snowblower.

A environmental issue discussed was the management of ash trees in the community, prompted by concerns over ash borer infestations. An assessment identified 39 ash trees in the town, with 25 situated in public areas. The council weighed treatment versus removal, noting treatment costs at approximately $10 per diameter inch. The unpredictability of treatment effectiveness and the requirement for ongoing maintenance were discussed, emphasizing a need for detailed estimates for both treatment and removal. The council agreed to gather more information, planning to revisit the issue in a future meeting.

The council also addressed infrastructure maintenance, specifically the seal coating of streets, which saw an updated price projection of $98,000. Rising oil costs and mobilization fees were cited as reasons for the increase. Deliberations considered delaying the seal coating to reallocate funds for urgent infrastructure projects, such as storm sewer repairs on Hul Street. The council acknowledged approximately $75,000 from previous allocations remained unspent. A motion to delay the seal coating until the following year was passed unanimously.

The meeting also touched on recreational improvements, particularly enhancements at the archery range. Usage statistics were presented, and improvements such as backstop cleanup and infrastructure additions were noted. The archery range committee proposed future projects, including wrapping targets with protective material and erecting a solid fence between the range and a compost pile. This initiative would require collaboration with utility companies for materials procurement, with tree clearing necessary to facilitate the project. Logs from removed trees could be repurposed for the fence, illustrating a focus on resourcefulness and safety.

Water and wastewater management emerged as another focal point, with a report on water quality raising concerns about the presence of blood in wastewater. The potential construction of new treatment facilities was debated, with safety and material handling as key considerations. The council emphasized the need for an enclosed facility to manage chemical handling safely.

Additional discussions covered water meter installations, scheduled for April 1, with logistical challenges noted for residents who might not respond to installation requests. The council addressed the disposal of old meters, confirmed as free of charge, and approved a contract for new installations. Personnel evaluations were also on the agenda, with plans for a closed meeting to conduct assessments. The council highlighted the importance of clear communication and documentation, particularly regarding property encroachments on city right-of-ways and water meter installations, to prevent future legal and operational complications.

In new business, the council expressed support for the Minnesota Special Olympics Friendship Wagon Train event, scheduled for June 21, with a visit to Good Thunder planned the following day. Discussions focused on potential hosting logistics, including facilities at the local ballpark and meals for participants. The council acknowledged the need for plansning and information gathering to ensure the event’s success.