The council’s most consequential decision centered around the approval of Resolution 24-17, which proposed an updated city fee schedule to address the underfunded sewer Enterprise fund. The changes included a reduction in the base and per usage water rates by one dollar while increasing the base connection and usage rates for sewer services by fifty cents each. This reallocation effectively shifted a total of two dollars from the water fund to the sewer fund.

In another development, the council deliberated on a proposal for an updated city council pay policy for 2025. The discussion revolved around possibly reducing the number of council meetings from two to one per month. This proposed change would alter how council members are compensated, shifting from a per-meeting basis to an annual salary. Proponents of the change argued that it would streamline operations and potentially align the council’s practices with those of nearby towns. However, some members noted that maintaining two meetings per month allowed for more thorough discussions. Ultimately, the motion to table the policy for further consideration passed unanimously.

The council also addressed the appointment of a new council member. Three candidates submitted letters of interest: Sam Jedin, Brandy Jacobson, and Christina Petsinger. After a thorough discussion, a motion was made to nominate Brandy Jacobson for the vacant seat, which was seconded and passed with unanimous support. Jacobson’s prior contributions to the finance committee and her organizational skills were highlighted as key factors in her selection.

During the utilities report, the council was informed that only 13 blue cards had been issued recently, a significant drop from previous months. Updates were provided on various projects, such as the GPS mapping of curb stops and work completed on gravel roads. A issue was raised regarding approximately 20 dead trees near the lake, which were identified as potential hazards. The director suggested winter as a preferable time for removal and mentioned exploring options for handling the trees, as they were not tall enough for timber extraction. The council discussed the possibility of seeking bids from tree services, with the director already reaching out to local companies for assistance.

The Public Works report detailed progress on previously identified issues, with the director noting the completion of many tasks since their arrival in 2021. However, ongoing concerns with an old sewer pipe full of water were discussed, as this could be contributing to excess water in the system. Plans for future televising of the sewer lines were mentioned. Additionally, the aging air conditioning unit at the wastewater treatment facility was identified as a concern, with a request for new units to prevent further damage. The need for new dehumidifiers was also highlighted to maintain the integrity of the aging pipes and equipment.

The city administrator provided updates on several ongoing initiatives, including the renewal of the workers’ compensation policy and participation in a cannabis discussion with the county. The administrator noted plans to model local planning and zoning descriptions after those established by Waseca County. There was also a scheduled meeting with Bolton and Mink to discuss the 2025 Street Improvement project, with financing discussions planned to determine if the project would proceed in 2025 or 2026.

In other business, the council approved the purchase of new chairs for the council chamber, following complaints about the current seating. A motion to buy six chairs at a total cost of approximately $373 was presented, seconded, and passed smoothly.

The administrator also mentioned a productive meeting with an EDA representative regarding a $115,000 grant, discussing opportunities and challenges facing New Richland. There was mention of a business outreach effort, with plans for anonymous surveys to gauge business needs. Furthermore, upcoming meetings with FEMA about previous flooding claims were noted, with minimal financial assistance expected due to existing insurance coverage.

The conversation concluded with ongoing challenges in grant documentation for ADA compliance, particularly concerning a tornado siren and turnout gear. The administrator explained the extensive process required for compliance but acknowledged the difficulties in gathering the necessary documentation.