One focus of the meeting was the city’s mosquito control program, which has been entrusted to Clark’s, a company that has provided these services over the past six years. For the upcoming year, Clark’s submitted a quote for $41,950, a slight increase from the previous year. The council discussed alternatives to manage costs within the $40,000 budget, including potentially reducing the frequency of treatments around holiday periods to save $1,800. Concerns about the effectiveness of treatments during rain were also raised, noting the city’s right to cancel applications based on weather conditions.

The Highway 19 and County Road 2 roundabout project emerged as a significant topic, with discussions revealing a delay in the project’s commencement to 2026 due to extensive dewatering and construction techniques required. The council received a comprehensive 180-page project plan and proposed detour routes, emphasizing the need for clear signage for large vehicles. Concerns were expressed about the project’s design and the perceived inefficiencies in communication with MnDOT. The council highlighted frustrations over the lack of responsiveness from state authorities, particularly in light of the project’s history, which includes a fatal accident at the intersection. Despite delays, the council expressed hope that the project would eventually enhance safety, although skepticism remained about MnDOT’s handling of the situation.

In the realm of engineering services, the council evaluated proposals from several firms, emphasizing the importance of selecting a firm that aligns with the city’s needs in terms of cost and quality. After consideration and discussion among council members, the decision was made to interview three firms: WSB, ISG, and Bolton and Mink. The council scheduled these interviews for April 28th and 29th.

The council also addressed the appointment of Michael Harding to the planning commission. Harding was the sole applicant following a call for applications to fill the vacancy left by Jim Freed’s resignation. The council expressed gratitude for Freed’s service since 2007, and Harding’s appointment was approved without opposition, set to last until 2026.

Additionally, the council discussed the city’s auditor’s report, which is nearing completion. The audit has proceeded smoothly, with commendations directed toward the city treasurer for effective collaboration with auditors. The report is expected to include findings similar to previous years, with a focus on staffing limitations affecting the segregation of duties.

Further discussions involved local infrastructure, including the challenges associated with establishing a trail connected to the highway right-of-way. The council expressed frustration over perceived obstacles from MnDOT and highlighted the importance of lobbying state authorities more effectively to overcome such challenges. The conversation extended to the upcoming Highway 19 overlay project and the potential for speed limit adjustments near the new roundabout, addressing safety concerns for student drivers in the area.

The council also considered a proposal from Synergy Outdoor Solutions for playground mulch installation, aimed at enhancing safety and ADA compliance across multiple parks. Additionally, a bio-augmentation program at the wastewater treatment plant was discussed, with a quote from Team Lab amounting to $24,600. This program aims to enhance biological processes and improve operational efficiency, continuing a successful initiative from the previous year.

Lastly, the council reviewed the resignation of building inspector Gary Stabber, prompting a discussion on how to fill the vacant position. Options included contracting with a company or hiring a city employee, with the council leaning towards soliciting contractor proposals for a one-year contract. This approach would allow time to assess the best long-term solution for the city’s inspection needs.