The foremost issue discussed was the potential funding and prioritization of a new water treatment facility, an essential project estimated to cost approximately $10.8 million. The council explored the possibility of securing lower initial funding, between $8 million and $9 million, to cover the project’s critical components. This consideration was informed by a successful precedent in Medelia, where similar funding negotiations had been beneficial. Council members emphasized the necessity of leveraging connections with representatives to facilitate financial negotiations.

Simultaneously, the council addressed ongoing infrastructure concerns, including the approval of a repair plan for a manhole structure near the lagoon, where excessive rainwater infiltration was problematic. A repair involving hydrophobic grout, costing $4,700, was approved to safeguard the sewer system’s integrity. This decision came after a video highlighted the severity of water entering the structure during heavy rains, raising alarms about potential flooding risks.

Road maintenance was another significant topic, with discussions centering on the costs and timing of patching city streets. The council considered whether to proceed with proposed patching work in the fall or wait until spring, with the total cost noted at $10,700. The debate weighed the benefits of addressing certain areas before chip sealing against the potential for unnecessary disruptions. The council left this decision open.

Financial strategies were also a focus, with the council approving a motion to withdraw a certificate of deposit (CD) from Menstar Bank, amounting to $13,923, to bolster the sewer fund. Additionally, a proposed tax levy for 2025 was discussed, with an emphasis on maintaining or potentially reducing the levy, reflecting fiscal responsibility amid infrastructure challenges.

In the realm of water billing, the council proposed a shift from quarterly to monthly billing, effective at the beginning of the next year. Concerns were raised about the transition’s financial impact on residents, particularly those accustomed to receiving larger quarterly bills. The council considered allowing additional time for payments during the transition period to alleviate potential burdens. Furthermore, the council debated a water shut-off policy for residents who leave town for the winter.

The meeting also touched on the potential acquisition of a new printer, with the current equipment described as outdated. The council considered a state contract for a new printer, weighing the cost of purchasing outright against a leasing option that included maintenance and supplies. Despite the current printer’s operational issues, the consensus leaned towards delaying the lease until the equipment failed.

Towards the meeting’s conclusion, a proposal was made to explore the installation of fiber optic internet, with Consolidated identified as a company potentially bringing this service to the area. The council expressed interest in investigating how the city could transition to fiber optic, given the current internet service’s inadequacies.