During the public comment portion of the meeting, a resident inquired about the specifics of the water treatment plant project. The council explained that the lowest bid was much higher than the city had anticipated, leading to the decision to reject all bids and consider breaking the project into smaller parts. The initial phase of the project will involve doubling the capacity of the membrane cells. Currently, there are four cells, and the expansion will add four more high-pressure units, which will not only look different but significantly increase the treatment capacity.

Another notable topic discussed was the approval of a contract with Tiny Mobile Robots US LLC for the purchase of a proprietary field painting robot. The device, which uses GPS to line athletic fields, is expected to reduce manual labor requirements for the task.

The council also approved several contracts and authorizations, including a contract for one excavator for the Division of Parks and Shade Trees, a contract for a mid-tower ladder truck for the fire department, and the renewal of a liquor license with a special ruling. Additionally, the meeting covered the approval of a shared services agreement for the enforcement of motor vehicle and traffic regulations on Railroad Avenue.

Public concerns were raised about the city’s capacity to shelter homeless individuals during cold weather, specifically referencing the Code Blue program. It was reported that the current shelter reaches capacity almost every night, leaving some individuals without protection from the cold. Although the city is working on addressing the issue, the need for a second or larger location to accommodate those in need was strongly emphasized.

The council meeting concluded with the addressing of an ethics board issue raised by a resident regarding unresolved complaints and documentation, as well as a discussion about the recent change to the rent control ordinance, which has resulted in a lower percentage increase for renters in rent-controlled housing.