The most significant item on the agenda was the approval of plans for a new road project. The council approved a resolution to move forward with the project, which will open for bids on January 21, with results to be reviewed by January 30. The project completion date is set for July 1, 2025. The funding for this endeavor saw a budget adjustment from $21,500 to $24,500, incorporating contingencies for potential full-depth pavement removal. The roads selected for the project are those with a PCI rating under 70. The motion to approve the resolution was carried without further discussion.

In conjunction with infrastructure improvements, the city council also turned its attention to the 2025 budget and property tax levy. The proposed property tax levy stands at $3,461, resulting in a tax rate of 52.66. During the budget discussion, it was highlighted that the city’s tax rate had decreased by nearly 10% over recent years. However, the residential property tax impact varied, with some residents facing reductions and others seeing increases, like a noted $95.71 hike for some homeowners. Businesses experienced a similar range in tax impacts, with decreases up to $321.71 and increases around $1,500.

The budget also accounted for wage increases, with non-union employees set to receive a 5.5% raise, which includes a 2% cost-of-living adjustment and a 3.5% step increase. Police officers’ wages are set to rise by an average of 12.5%. The city’s health insurance premiums are anticipated to increase by 13.5% to 15.5%, adding an estimated $62,000 to the budget. Additionally, the council is conducting a compensation study that may impact future budgets. Departments like the police and economic development were allocated funds for necessary operational costs, such as uniforms and equipment, and economic initiatives, respectively.

The meeting also featured a discussion on a minor change order for the city hall remodel project. The change order, amounting to $562.79, was requested by Metcon for necessary modifications to the roof curb for a new rooftop unit. This change involved additional duct demolition and new duct work connections. The architect reviewed and recommended the changes, and the council approved the order without opposition.

In other business, the council discussed revisions to the city’s snow plowing policy. Changes were made to streamline communication of snow emergencies through digital platforms like the city’s mass notification system, website, and Facebook page, rather than local television stations. A $50 reimbursement policy was also introduced for residents whose mailboxes are damaged during plowing, covering the cost of a standard replacement mailbox and post. The council decided to maintain radio notifications, acknowledging the medium’s relevance for those not engaged with social media.

Department reports provided updates on city projects, noting that both ice rinks are operational with excellent ice quality. Upcoming projects include the scoreboard installation and booster station rehabilitation, though the latter faces delays due to electrical panel issues. The city hall remodel continues with interior demolition and new water line preparations. Additionally, a community member suggested that the remodeled clinic could include a rental room for events.