The truck sander update was a discussion point, with council members weighing the necessity of acting promptly due to the inoperable state of the current truck. The operational readiness of the truck was deemed vital for maintaining town safety during the remaining winter weeks. Initial estimates for a new sander were approximately $8,500; however, prices exceeded expectations. Concerns arose about the expiration of the “763 contract” with the state of Minnesota, which had provided municipalities with better pricing for equipment, having ended on January 31. Delays in procurement could lead to increased costs, adding urgency to the decision-making process.

In exploring funding options, the council contemplated selling a PTO-driven generator to finance the purchase. Storage and theft prevention for the new sander were also discussed, highlighting the need for secure equipment management. The council recognized that a new sander could improve the town’s efficiency in dealing with adverse weather conditions by allowing quick material switching.

Alongside the truck sander, other maintenance considerations were addressed. The council discussed hiring a professional service for cleaning shop ceilings and walls, with a bid accepted unanimously. Equipment needs, such as a new floor jack for plow installation, were identified, emphasizing the importance of operational readiness. The effectiveness of new software in detecting unusual water usage was praised, as it led to the discovery of plumbing issues at a residence.

The council also turned its attention to the Wastewater Department’s operations, endorsing a representative’s attendance at a Minnesota Wastewater Operators Association training session. The training, costing $20, was seen as a valuable investment in skill development. Additionally, infrastructure improvements were proposed for the city shop, with a focus on insulating and finishing the south side of the building to optimize workspace for larger vehicles.

The session included updates on the archery range repairs following flooding damages. The city successfully navigated a complex FEMA claim process, securing a settlement of $6,762.62 for repairs and improvements. The council discussed the acquisition of new and refurbished targets, bolstered by donations from the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association and the city. The need for a secure storage container for targets was highlighted, with the council considering funding options to cover the outstanding balance for a shipping container purchase. The idea of installing solar-powered security cameras at the archery range and composting site was also deliberated, with general support expressed for enhancing security measures.

The council further examined community cleanup efforts, debating the implementation of a dumpster for designated drop-off weekends. Concerns about illegal dumping were raised, leading to suggestions for structured drop-off hours and strategic placement of the dumpster within a shed to prevent unauthorized access. A representative from Vernon Lumber was proposed to assist in drafting specifications for future construction quotes.

Discussions transitioned to ordinance matters, notably the regulatory framework for cannabis businesses. The council explored zoning implications, acknowledging spatial limitations within Good Thunder that could restrict potential retail locations. Members emphasized the importance of establishing a proper ordinance to manage new business types, with public hearings planned to gather community input.

Fee schedules for utilities, particularly water service reconnections, were reviewed, with proposals to remove fee schedules from ordinances for flexibility. The council debated the pros and cons of transitioning from quarterly to monthly water billing, which would necessitate ordinance updates and potential fee increases.

Nuisance property enforcement emerged as a issue, with council members grappling with properties exhibiting excessive disrepair or hosting unlicensed vehicles. The council discussed potential legal frameworks and community engagement strategies to bolster enforcement actions, acknowledging the need for systematic approaches to uphold community standards.