0:00Concerns about the audio quality during council meetings were a major topic of discussion. During the guest and citizen forum, attendees expressed frustration with the inability to hear council members clearly, even when using hearing aids. The problem was attributed to both the current audio system and members speaking over each other. Multiple attendees suggested that improved microphones might offer a solution. The council acknowledged previous attempts to solve the issue had been unsuccessful and pledged to project their voices more effectively during meetings. This topic was critical as it directly impacts public engagement and transparency, key priorities emphasized by the mayor.

18:21The council then moved on to approve Resolution 20252, which involved the annual reorganization of the city’s boards, committees, and commissions. This resolution included the declaration of official depositories, appointment of signatories, and the setting of meeting dates. Meetings were scheduled for the first and fourth Mondays of each month, with adjustments made for Memorial Day. The resolution passed unanimously.

Another resolution, 20253, focused on a project by St. Louis County to enhance pedestrian traffic along Memorial Street. The project, funded by a carbon footprint grant, aims to add sidewalks, upgrade street lighting, and replace existing ash trees with maple trees. The initiative includes the installation of 19 new LED street lights and ADA ramps at intersections. Concerns were raised about the removal of 23 ash trees, but the county’s plan to replace them with maple trees was seen as a positive environmental move. The council supported this resolution without opposition.

The council also addressed Pay Request Number Four from Max Grade Construction for the Wellness and Recreation Center, amounting to $7,990. With 37% of the project completed, payments were based on services rendered and materials received. The council’s approval of this request without further questions demonstrated confidence in the project’s progress.

Resolution 20254 involved the appointment of committee members, an essential step in ensuring effective and representative governance. The mayor discussed potential changes to assignments, acknowledging that adjustments might be needed once the new council member acclimated to their role. The resolution passed without opposition, highlighting the council’s dedication to involving diverse voices in decision-making processes.

Additionally, the council considered and accepted a personal donation from Mayor Scott, who contributed $712 to cover his expenses at the League of Minnesota Cities Leadership Institute. Both donations required council approval as per state statute and were accepted unanimously.

Lastly, the council discussed and agreed to write off a utility account amounting to $52.70, which had been outstanding since the previous September. Clarity was sought regarding the property’s status, confirming it was owned and occupied. Given the minimal amount and efforts already made to collect, the council’s decision to write off the bill was straightforward and passed without opposition.