A primary focus of the meeting was the city’s classification and compensation study, conducted by a consultant from David Drown Associates. The study aims to address recruitment and retention challenges in the current labor market. Council members discussed the importance of establishing a competitive compensation philosophy tailored to Lonsdale’s unique demographic and economic conditions. The conversation highlighted the necessity of updating job descriptions and salary benchmarks, considering factors such as the proximity to metro areas and local commuting patterns.

During the discussion, council members considered which neighboring cities should serve as benchmarks for salary comparisons. Suggestions included Lakeville and Prior Lake. The council also deliberated on the motivations behind employee departures, noting that lifestyle choices and commuting distances influence such decisions. A suggestion was made to include the destinations of former employees in reports, which could provide insights into retention strategies.

In light of an upcoming change in city governance, the council agreed on the importance of allowing new members to establish their vision without being restricted by prior commitments. There was a consensus on the need to “set the table” for the new council.

The council then addressed several key equipment purchases to enhance city operations. Approval was granted for a new GMC 3500 truck to replace an aging vehicle, along with necessary accessories such as a back rack and strobe lights. These additions aim to improve storage and operational efficiency. Additionally, the council approved the purchase of a Boss VXT plow to expedite snow removal, emphasizing the importance of efficient operations during winter months.

Further equipment discussions included the Genesis Brine Buddy, a salt brine making apparatus intended to bolster the city’s snow and ice control efforts. While the equipment was budgeted for 2025, the council decided to purchase it earlier to address potential winter weather challenges. The brine maker will enhance the adhesion and melting effectiveness of the salt-sand mixture used on roads, with discussions highlighting the importance of maintaining correct salinity concentrations.

The council also approved a proposal from SMSC Organics Recycling Facility to grind and remove a brush pile at the compost site. This operation will be funded by savings from in-house tree removal efforts. The ongoing maintenance needs for new installations, including the use of LED lighting, were discussed, emphasizing the goal of enhancing operational capabilities.

In environmental matters, the council discussed the wellhead protection plan required by the Minnesota Department of Health. The plan involves analyzing the city’s wells and surrounding geology to protect municipal water sources from contamination. The council approved a resolution for the draft plan, acknowledging its necessity for safeguarding the community’s water resources.

Additionally, the council accepted a donation from the American Legion Post 586 for the Lonsdale Public Library and addressed the resignation of a Public Works employee, initiating a hiring process to fill the vacancy. A proposal for a new scoreboard at JC Park Field was also considered, with options to manage costs effectively while meeting Title IX requirements.