The most critical discussion of the evening revolved around the 2025 Street Improvement projects. Emily Brown, the assistant city engineer, presented the proposed plans for Windridge Trail, Pine Circle, Trillium Lane, and Trillium Way. Brown explained that these streets, particularly Pine Circle and the Trillium area, exhibited significant structural issues, including alligator cracking, potholes, and surface debonding. The proposed solution involved a full-depth reclamation process, which would blend existing pavement with underlying aggregate to create a recycled material for a new pavement section. This method is intended to extend the lifespan of the streets by around 30 years if properly maintained.

The estimated budget for the project is approximately $1.6 million, with 50% of the costs covered by benefiting property owners through the city’s assessment policy. The city will handle costs related to sanitary sewer improvements. Hardship deferrals for payment will be available for certain groups, such as seniors and military members.

Public engagement was strongly encouraged, with Brown urging residents to sign up for email updates and use comment cards for feedback. During the question-and-answer session, a resident from Pine Circle, Brand Palaza, voiced concerns about the proposed removal of the cul-de-sac island, emphasizing its role in providing a safe play area for children and slowing down traffic. Palaza presented photographs illustrating children playing in the area and stressed the island’s importance for community safety. Another resident, Bill Kennedy, questioned the logic behind resurfacing Trillium Lane in 2017 when subsurface problems were now evident, seeking clarity on the cost-benefit analysis of that decision.

Another topic was the amendment to interim ordinance number 484, imposing a moratorium on cannabis businesses within the city. This moratorium stems from the legalization of cannabis by the legislature in 2023, prompting many municipalities, including Minnetrista, to adopt moratoriums until regulations could be established. The amendment reaffirmed the applicability of the moratorium despite recent legislative changes that reduced the number of cannabis businesses defined in the statute from 14 to 11. Despite questions regarding buffer zones between cannabis businesses and parks or schools, officials noted that they were in the early stages of developing maps and assessing the need for further regulations.

Additionally, the council discussed the potential reactivation of the assistant City administrator position. This position, which existed in the early 2000s, was proposed to enhance organizational efficiency and continuity of leadership. The reactivation was supported by many directors but was met with a split decision within the Personnel committee. The proposed salary grade for the assistant City administrator was set at grade 11, with a potential cost of approximately $10,000, partially funded by the general fund.

Another important topic was the donation of land from a developer in the Hunters Crest fifth edition neighborhood. The council reviewed a donation agreement that had been vetted by legal counsel, which would lead to the city assuming future stormwater maintenance responsibilities. The city’s attorney confirmed that the agreement was acceptable, and the council appeared optimistic about the property’s current state.

The council also discussed the hiring of an in-house engineering technician. This new role aims to reduce reliance on external engineering services, especially during peak construction years. The council highlighted the long-term tax savings for the community and the improved oversight of projects that an in-house technician would provide. Despite some suggestions to postpone the hiring until later in 2025, the consensus leaned towards moving forward with the inclusion of this position in the budget for preliminary levy adoption in September.

Lastly, the council addressed City Hall hours and the potential for modified summer hours to be extended year-round. Feedback from the public and staff was sought, with the consensus leaning towards reverting to regular hours for the winter and revisiting the idea of summer hours for the next year. The council also discussed the importance of consistency in hours between City Hall and the police station to avoid public confusion.