Among notable topics addressed was the council’s approval of a new license agreement with Mayor’s Excavating. This agreement follows the aftermath of a tornado that struck Melrose on August 3, 2024, causing extensive tree damage. The city initially used Riverview Road for debris disposal but faced challenges due to an XL power line that impeded burning, resulting in increased costs for chipping and disposal. To better manage current and future debris, the agreement allows city staff to use Mayor’s Excavating pit for ongoing maintenance and emergencies. The council stressed the need for effective signage to guide residents to the correct disposal location, acknowledging the pit as an operational business. The agreement also includes terms for dust control on the access road and public access management to mitigate liability issues. The motion to approve the agreement passed unanimously.

Another primary focus was the request for mortgage subordination regarding a development agreement with Carson’s Industries. The council discussed subordinating the city’s interest to the lender providing construction financing, contingent on the lender’s agreement to complete improvements in case of foreclosure. Attorney Scott Demick confirmed that the subordination documents did not require additional completion of improvements, as a certificate of occupancy had already been issued. The council authorized the mayor and city clerk to execute the agreement, with the motion carrying without opposition.

The council also addressed the hiring of Melissa Welli as a new ambulance training officer, following a unanimous recommendation from an interview panel. The panel considered three candidates and selected Welli to assume the position effective July 27, 2025. The council approved the hiring motion with no objections.

Additionally, the council considered a collaborative assignment consent and stop certificate for Granite City as part of the Wabagon Crossings project. This item involved transitioning the project from construction loan financing to long-term financing, similar to the situation with Carson’s Industries. The new city attorney, Joe Krueger, reviewed the lender’s documentation and found it satisfactory. The council approved the assignment consent and stop certificate, with the motion passing unanimously.

Other matters included a report that highlighted the efforts of the Melrose Lions Club, which donated playground equipment for Sock River Park. The council expressed gratitude for the Lions’ contributions to the community. Reports from city officials noted a decrease in police requests for service and upcoming public hearings for the Planning and Zoning Commission on July 28th. These hearings will address a preliminary plat for the Church of St. Mary’s residential lots, conditional use permits for a billboard and a multi-tenant parcel, and a variance for a house in the Highlands.

The council also learned of ongoing development projects, including the installation of golf simulators by Woods and Irons and the relocation of Sterns Electric to their new headquarters, with a public open house planned for October. Efforts to address road mislabeling on Google Maps, which has led to semi-trucks being misdirected through residential areas, were also discussed. The council plans to install signage to redirect truck traffic appropriately.

The Mayor provided updates on housing initiatives and noted the receipt of the first installment of Local Government Aid from the county. Budget discussions are underway, with a retreat planned before the next council meeting to address TIF matters and potential electrical upgrades at the Geno project site.