17:35A major focus of the meeting was the urgent repair of Hickory Lane and Timber Drive, which had sustained damage due to vandalism. A resident was responsible for damaging equipment used for the roads, causing delays in acquiring repair quotes before winter. With improving weather conditions, the council pushed for swift action to restore the streets, emphasizing the need for milling and curb work. The council approved a bid from William Mes for $45,688.80 to cover these repairs. During discussions, it was highlighted that despite the roads being stubbed into undeveloped areas, there were existing residences on Hickory Lane affected by their deteriorated state. One council member remarked, “there’s two houses on Hickory Lane… it looks horrible,” underscoring the necessity for repairs to ensure acceptable living conditions for those residents.

The council also discussed whether homeowners on the affected roads should be notified about the impending work. Additionally, the council expressed intent to seek remuneration from the responsible party for the incurred repair costs, although specific steps for this were not detailed in the meeting.

25:35Turning to recreational development, the council deliberated on a land use agreement for a proposed disc golf course. This project, driven by park board members and community input, plans for a 19-hole course with detailed layouts, including fairway widths and winter paths for cross-country skiing. The agreement is set for a 20-year term, with a provision for six months’ notice should the land require repurposing. This initiative drew community involvement, as evidenced by the council’s appreciation for the efforts of contributors to the course’s design.

The council approved a quote from Anova for $7,796 for the disc golf course baskets and addressed additional features like insulation sleeves. These would facilitate easy basket removal and ensure the project stayed within the allocated budget of $10,361. Additionally, the council accepted a quote from Unique Concrete for $12,777 to install concrete tee pads. The Mayor Lutheran High School’s request for the city to mow nearby soccer fields in return for using space for the disc golf course was deemed feasible within the existing mowing schedule.

12:17Staffing adjustments in the public works department were another key topic. The council handled the resignation of Kyle Coun, the public works supervisor, effective April 25. To maintain compliance with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s Class A license requirement for the wastewater facility, Kyle agreed to continue in an interim capacity. He would oversee both the wastewater facility and capital improvement projects, leveraging his expertise during the transition. The council approved the creation of an interim water and wastewater treatment operator position specifically for Kyle, with a pay rate of $70 per hour for six hours a week, allowing for additional hours if necessary. This measure emphasizes the council’s recognition of the importance of retaining institutional knowledge during staffing transitions.

15:21In conjunction with these personnel changes, the council authorized the opening of the public works supervisor position, planning to advertise the vacancy until May 14. The vacancy would be announced in local newspapers and relevant online platforms. Furthermore, council discussions encouraged the advancement of current public works employees toward obtaining their Class A licenses, although this was not mandated.