One of the most significant actions taken during the meeting was the approval of the final payment and change order for the Fourth Street and Broadway Street project. The representative noted that this was the final step in completing the project, which has been in progress for two years. There was a reduction in costs associated with this change order, and it was clarified that the funds for the project had been paid upfront and would now be recouped through assessments. These assessments will be processed subsequently, with anticipation of future bond payments related to the street improvements.

The meeting also delved into the growing concern about daycare resources within the community. A representative shared that they had met with a couple interested in starting a daycare and provided information about grants available for both new and existing facilities. The Rural Child Care Initiative was mentioned as a key program designed to facilitate discussions among stakeholders, including daycare operators, school district representatives, and local businesses. This initiative aims to assess community needs and explore potential resources and grants to address the childcare shortage.

In the Economic Development Authority (EDA) segment of the meeting, there was an announcement about the completion of the pickleball courts. The decision against adding a third set was influenced by the slope in the area and budget constraints, with costs for expansion ranging from $15,000 to $220,000. The discussion also included proposals for enhancing the area around the courts, such as installing benches through donations in memory of individuals and implementing a windscreen for advertising, which could generate revenue for court maintenance.

The council also addressed financial approvals and equipment purchases. A final payment of $94,138.04 was approved, and there was a brief discussion regarding a consent agenda item for an off-site gambling permit for an event scheduled on December 14, which passed unanimously. Additionally, the council discussed the sale of a blade discovered at the wastewater treatment plant, which sold for $3,550, exceeding initial expectations. The funds from this sale, along with a remaining balance of $4,456 in C money, were allocated for purchasing a bucket and a grapple for a newly acquired loader to enhance snow plowing efficiency and address tree damage from recent storms.

The meeting also covered updates from the police department, including the police chief’s ongoing efforts to gather quotes for new equipment such as batteries and chargers. There was also a mention that students from Goodhue School might attend future meetings as part of their government class, which was noted for awareness.

Furthermore, the council addressed the water issue at Goodhue School. A recommendation to alleviate the water problems was discussed, which included suggestions from an engineer who reviewed the situation as a neutral third party. The engineer’s recommendations focused on drainage improvements rather than underground solutions. While the school’s engineer had provided informal feedback, no official statement or plan had been finalized between the two parties involved.

The meeting concluded with discussions about additional equipment needs for the maintenance staff to ensure operational efficiency in the context of upcoming weather challenges. There was also a routine discussion regarding invoices, including a meter leak deductible that had been processed. A motion was made to pay the bills presented, leading to another unanimous vote.