The water treatment plant project emerged as the centerpiece of the meeting. Jasper presented an update on its plans and specifications, identifying this as a financial undertaking for Minnetrista. The treatment plant, with a capacity of 2,100 gallons per minute and a 700,000-gallon clear well, is slated to be one of the largest expenditures for the city. The timeline shared proposed advertising for bids on July 8, with bid openings on August 7 and a potential award on August 18. Construction is anticipated to begin in October, with completion expected by May 2028. Jasper expressed expectations of receiving bids from three to six contractors. A unanimous decision was reached to approve the plans.

In a related discussion, the council considered a task order for an interconnect analysis with St. Bonifacius. This analysis, costing $14,700, aimed to model the water system’s impact with potential interconnect meters. Concerns were raised over the variability of costs and the necessity of this analysis given past data gaps in interconnect projects. There was consensus on the importance of thorough planning for future water infrastructure improvements and the need for better documentation of previous interconnects to prevent similar gaps.

The Gillespie Center funding request sparked intense dialogue among council members. Rhonda Nelson appealed for $10,000 annually over the next decade to support the center’s programs, highlighting its role as a community hub. Council Member Lacy advocated strongly for the request, emphasizing the center’s vital contributions to the community, particularly for seniors. She noted the center’s $4.7 million in endowments and investments but argued that other cities have consistently funded the facility, which offers essential services. Despite this, there were concerns over city funding for nonprofits, with some council members recalling past debates on the issue.

The director of the Gillespie Center further explained the financial constraints, citing depleted endowment funds and maintenance expenses overshadowing programming budgets. The center had previously utilized a $500,000 endowment for capital projects, but maintenance, including HVAC repairs, now strains resources. The discussion referenced the center’s need for a sustainable endowment of approximately $4 million to secure financial health. Although Minnetrista’s population of seniors is relatively small, the center serves the broader community.

The council also addressed budgetary concerns, focusing on the tax levy and upcoming financial commitments. It was noted that Minnetrista residents currently pay lower city taxes compared to neighboring cities, but upcoming operational costs, including compensation driven by union contracts, are expected to increase the budget by 7 to 8 percent. Deliberations included whether to maintain or adjust the roads levy and the need for new equipment for public services. There was a suggestion to start the tax levy increase around 10 percent while maintaining flexibility for adjustments.

Financial projections posed challenges, with discussions acknowledging the community’s capacity to handle high bonded debt and the importance of prioritizing projects to prevent budgetary strain.

The meeting also touched on yard waste disposal services, with consideration of a partnership model similar to Mound, costing $13,000 annually. The practicality for residents and potential misuse by contractors were discussed. Additionally, council members deliberated on changing the meeting start time from 7:00 PM to 6:30 PM.