The council engaged in a detailed debate over proposed amendments to the personnel policy regarding the carrying of firearms by employees within city facilities. The proposal suggested allowing employees with valid permits to carry firearms, provided they remain concealed from public view. This sparked a conversation about the balance between employees’ rights to personal protection and maintaining a safe environment in public spaces. Concerns were voiced about the potential for misunderstandings or conflicts if firearms were visible, even unintentionally, within city hall.

A motion to amend the policy raised questions about the necessity of such changes, given existing state statutes requiring permits for carrying firearms in public. Some members advocated for explicitly stating the need for firearms to be concealed, while others sought legal counsel to ensure the policy aligns with legal standards. The council agreed to table the discussion for further review, planning to revisit the topic after consulting with legal experts.

In another significant topic, the council turned its attention to the management of ash trees threatened by the emerald ash borer, a pest that could decimate the city’s ash population within a decade. The council reviewed an inventory identifying 477 ash trees, with 396 located in street right-of-ways, placing the responsibility for these trees’ management on adjacent property owners as per city ordinance. The discussion focused on options for treatment and removal, including pesticide treatments for lightly infested trees and plans for tree replacement to maintain the urban canopy.

The council considered applying for a state relief grant to assist with the financial burden of removing and replacing these trees. The debate included whether to allocate funds for both park and right-of-way trees and whether to provide financial assistance to residents for tree removal. The potential costs for treating and replacing trees were weighed, with a consensus on the need for a strategic plan to manage the city’s tree population effectively.

The meeting also addressed logistical concerns related to the placement of food trucks during the upcoming Main Street Fall Extravaganza. With ongoing construction at a nearby roundabout, safety and visibility issues were highlighted, prompting a discussion on relocating food trucks to ensure traffic safety. The council approved the food truck placement with conditions for finding a safer location, balancing event success with public safety.

In other matters, the council reviewed the registration for a cannabis micro business, AEY LLC, which had received pre-approval from the Office of Cannabis Management. Despite some confusion over the business’s registered address, the council approved the registration, noting the need to reassess local ordinances in light of changing state regulations.

Discussions also touched on the sale of the Iani fire hall to the Isanti Area Joint Operating Fire District and a proposal for a community sign near a key highway intersection. The council deliberated on the financial implications of the sign, questioning its value against high costs and potential tax burdens. A cautious approach was considered, proposing gradual fund accumulation to support the project.