The council approved a motion to award a contract for the construction of a new trail on E Avenue to BKJ Land Company. This decision followed a review of bids where BKJ Land Company submitted the lowest bid, coming in 4 to 6 percent below the engineer’s estimate. The project is part of a broader initiative to improve local trails, with a proposed completion timeline set for substantial completion by September 16 and final completion by September 30. The council deliberated on the importance of maintaining and enhancing trails, noting their frequent use by residents. While the budget initially allocated $150,000 for trail repairs, there were discussions about potentially reallocating funds for other park projects, such as the development of pickleball courts.

In another major development, the council addressed a request from Rail 19 Bar and Grill LLC to amend its liquor license temporarily and close portions of Railway Street for an upcoming event, which includes live music. The owners expressed enthusiasm about the event. The council approved the street closure from Friday morning to early Saturday.

The meeting also included a review of several infrastructure projects. Updates on the local disc golf course were provided, detailing the completion of all nine t-box pads, the erection of poles, and the installation of garbage cans. Restoration efforts, including dirt work and grass seeding, were completed promptly. The council was informed that once site surveys are completed, signage installation would mark the project’s completion. Additionally, the pouring of utman pads and a fuel barrel pad was discussed, with plans for further installations.

Paving and water infrastructure improvements were also highlighted. Water main breaks had been addressed, and paving was completed in designated areas. A power issue at the old police station was resolved, and paving for Caur was scheduled with plans to maintain road accessibility. The mill and overlay project completion and the successful activation of the M Street water project were also noted, alongside the upcoming installation of a booster station.

In budget discussions, the council considered quotes for property and health insurance, with further clarifications needed. Conversations with a developer regarding potential housing developments were ongoing, with information on zoning and utilities being prepared. A budget meeting was scheduled for the following week to address these matters.

Library updates were another highlight, with the recent interview for a Library Technician position and the arrival of new furniture anticipated. The summer reading program’s success was noted, with over 190 children participating. The library staff’s upcoming presentation at the Minnesota Library Association conference on flood recovery efforts was also mentioned, alongside plans for a re-grand opening celebration.

The Economic Development Authority (EDA) was active in exploring new marketing strategies for the industrial park and expanding social media presence. A proposal from Westra Marketing was awaited, and a new revolving loan fund was established to support local businesses with a budget of $50,000.