The council explored options for the Birchwood Terrace Park, considering its potential as a development site for housing or as a campsite. One member suggested assessing the fair market value of the property and evaluating its profitability if converted to various uses, such as housing lots or campsites. The council also discussed engaging engineers to examine the land’s capacity for development. The potential for the site to attract housing developers, particularly those interested in shovel-ready projects, was highlighted, with plans to consult developers about its viability.

Additionally, the council accepted a $199,000 donation from New Range Copper Nickel. The funds are designated for the Midway project and library improvements. Council members expressed appreciation for the contribution, noting the positive impact it will have on community facilities.

In another discussion, the council addressed a request for employee leave following a surgery. The council considered allowing the employee to earn extra comp time through additional shifts, while also contemplating future policy changes for leave donations. This topic underscored the council’s ongoing efforts to manage employee benefits equitably.

The council also reviewed changes to Minnesota’s earned sick and safe time law, which now exempts paid on-call firefighters and EMTs from accruing such benefits. The council agreed to terminate the accrual program for these employees, aligning with state guidelines while allowing them to use any previously accumulated time.