The most notable development of the meeting was the decision to approve a new ordinance amending Chapter 11 of the city code to permit backyard chickens. The ordinance allows residents to keep up to three hens, provided they are housed in fully enclosed, rodent-free environments, with roosters being prohibited. This proposal had been under consideration following discussions in prior work sessions. The council weighed the benefits of granting a popular community request against potential public health concerns. One council member expressed apprehension about avian flu risks and compliance with health guidelines, referencing CDC and University of Minnesota recommendations. Another council member countered, arguing that similar ordinances in neighboring areas had generated minimal complaints, and emphasized the importance of responsible ownership.

Enforcement of the ordinance emerged as a contentious point. It was recognized that monitoring compliance, particularly with respect to setbacks and screening near property lines, would be challenging. One participant noted the difficulty of verifying the number of chickens on private property without access, raising questions about the practicality of enforcement. Despite these concerns, a motion to approve the ordinance was made and passed with a narrow margin.

In a move aimed at balancing community interests with public safety, the council agreed to revisit the ordinance in 12 months to evaluate its impact and address any emerging issues.

The meeting also featured a detailed presentation of the city’s financial audit by Clifton Larson Allen. Auditors Grace Trazinski and Chris Kenopic reported that the city received an unmodified or clean audit opinion, the highest level of assurance. The audit identified no deficiencies in internal controls and highlighted compliance with Minnesota legal requirements, despite a minor exception related to a contractor’s withholding affidavit for a resurfacing project. The audit presentation included emerging issues with new governmental accounting standards, such as Statements 102, 103, and 104, which will require additional disclosures and adjustments in financial reporting in the coming years.

Financial results revealed a slight decrease in the general fund’s unassigned balance as a percentage of expenditures, dropping from 42.6% in 2023 to 39.9% in 2024, aligning with budgeted expectations. The audit also highlighted controlled growth in the city, with building permits for new single-family homes rising from 107 to 128 in 2024. Total revenues for the general fund decreased slightly, while total expenditures increased due to higher labor costs linked to negotiated contracts.

In conjunction with the financial updates, the council addressed several infrastructure and administrative topics. A report on the drilling of wells 89 revealed delays due to recent cold weather, with additional blasting required to reach the Mount Simon formation. Despite these challenges, progress continued, and test pumping was anticipated soon.

The council also discussed a recent water main break on Holstead, caused by a new house connection to the city water main, which led to significant leaks and emergency measures. Although disruptions occurred, the city’s response was effective, with only minor complaints reported.

In terms of community safety initiatives, the council reviewed plans for the fire department’s budget and equipment needs. A new Chief’s vehicle, estimated at $85,000, will be purchased through the Capital Improvement Plan without additional financial burden. The fire department’s operational capabilities are set to be enhanced with new extrication gear and a DNR matching grant for a ventilation fan.

The meeting concluded with discussions on potential renovations for the water tower and scheduling adjustments for the Parks and Planning Commission meetings to improve operational efficiency. Updates were also provided on the St. Bonnie Fire Commission’s recent developments, including the addition of new firefighters and the introduction of a thermal imaging drone.