The council received a detailed presentation from City Engineer Cory Beang, representing Bolton M Engineering, on the upcoming 2025 Street Utility Improvement Project. This project targets the deteriorating infrastructure on Ash Street, Broadway Avenue, Fourth Street, and Third Street. Beang emphasized the severe condition of the sanitary sewer systems in these areas, which present ongoing flooding challenges due to high infiltration and inflow issues. The project scope includes replacing sanitary sewer mains, water mains, and stormwater infrastructure, along with a full street reconstruction.

The proposed improvements for Ash Avenue involve widening the roadway from 37 to 40 feet, incorporating two drive lanes and parking lanes, and adding a five-foot sidewalk on the west side to improve connectivity through the school property. On Broadway Avenue, plans suggest narrowing the street from 40 to 36 feet to cut costs while maintaining functionality. The proposal also includes rerouting the sanitary sewer on Fourth Street to address bottleneck issues at the Ash and Broadway intersection. Third Street, ending at railroad tracks, is slated for narrowing to 32 feet with a cul-de-sac turnaround to aid emergency services and waste collection.

The estimated cost for these extensive improvements is approximately $3 million, with funding sources including existing funds, special assessments, and bonds. The council stressed the importance of community feedback, scheduling public hearings to refine the project based on resident input. Concerns were voiced about the financial implications for property owners, with assessments based on property frontage. One resident expressed a desire for clarity on assessment amounts before proceeding, highlighting a concern echoed by others regarding transparency and financial impact.

Public comments revealed mixed feelings about certain elements of the project, such as the proposed narrowing of South Broadway Avenue and sidewalk adjustments. A petition was presented opposing the narrowing due to safety concerns, particularly for pedestrians and schoolchildren. Residents also questioned the planned removal of sidewalks, advocating for their retention or complete replacement to maintain safety and accessibility.

The council also devoted considerable attention to the bids for waste management services, a critical aspect of city operations. Two providers submitted proposals, prompting discussions about contract terms, pricing structures, and service reliability. The urgency of finalizing a decision was noted, as the council aimed to integrate these choices into the upcoming budget.

Financial matters extended beyond waste management, touching on broader budget considerations. The council discussed allocations for street maintenance, proposing $20,000 for seal coating and $50,000 for street overlay, with potential additional general fund contributions as needed. A proposed tax levy adjustment to 7.8% was considered. Police department staffing was another focal point, with discussions around transitioning part-time officers to full-time roles. The financial implications of hiring, including equipment and evaluation costs, were examined, alongside concerns about officer retention.