The council approved Resolution 2410 for the Goodhue Living tax abatement, a financial maneuver intended to clean up a contract initially adopted in 2021. This resolution will enable the tax abatement to commence on February 1 of the following year. Libby Canner, substituting for the absent city attorney, explained that some procedural steps had been missed previously. The council unanimously supported the motion.

Attention then shifted to community recreational facilities, where the council reviewed the current state of the tennis courts with plans to convert them into four pickleball courts. The rise in popularity of pickleball prompted the council to consider necessary repairs and design changes. Local companies have been consulted to address surface cracks and apply a protective coating. The discussion included potential fencing installations to prevent interruptions between games. However, securing contractors for the project remains challenging due to high demand, with some companies unable to commit to 2024 schedules.

The council sees the pickleball courts as a means to foster community engagement and family bonding. Plans include community education classes for both children and adults, highlighting pickleball’s potential to bring the community together. Funding for the project will likely utilize community improvement dollars.

The meeting also addressed the removal of 18 ash trees from Cranson Park due to disease concerns. The removal costs are estimated between $1,500 and $2,000 per tree, which led to the proposal of seeking grants from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) when available. The council discussed the potential for park enhancements, including new playground equipment, which is expected to increase park usage for family gatherings and community events.

The council is also considering a community education agreement to facilitate the use of city facilities by local schools. There was a suggestion that the Economic Development Authority (EDA) could play a role in engaging the community for ideas and proposals, allowing council members to focus on broader responsibilities.

Furthermore, the council is exploring aesthetic improvements through a “Paint the Town” grant for murals and enhancements in public spaces. The sustainability of the pickleball courts was also considered, with discussions on maintenance needs and financial strategies to avoid unforeseen costs. The council is interested in incorporating school branding into the court designs, potentially using school colors like purple and white.

The council acknowledged the importance of gathering public feedback, possibly through surveys, to inform their decisions. They anticipate more discussions and proposals in the upcoming work session scheduled for July.