The most substantial topic was the proposed 12th Street Area Improvements Project, which seeks to overhaul the sanitary sewer and stormwater management systems in key areas of Newport. The project aims to ensure adequate separation between water and sewer lines during reconstruction, and a significant component involves replacing the force main originating from the 12th Street lift station. This infrastructure pumps wastewater to 4th Avenue, and its replacement is considered essential before further surface investments, such as curbs and pavement, are made. The replacement of brittle pipes was highlighted, with council members emphasizing the importance of this work to avoid future complications.

As part of this project, the council discussed a comprehensive street and utility reconstruction plan, including the addition of storm sewer systems. Preliminary calculations for stormwater collection and treatment needs have been completed, and a formal capacity study is underway to assess adjacent storm sewer systems, particularly on 4th Avenue. The study results will inform design decisions and help identify potential stormwater retention areas to mitigate peak flows, thus enhancing the community’s infrastructure resilience.

The council considered various design options, including boulevard retention areas along 12th Street. These areas could connect to the storm sewer on 4th Avenue, potentially reducing the need for extensive construction in bedrock, a costly and challenging endeavor. The projected outfall design involves discharging north into the river, with necessary permits from the Department of Natural Resources and the Army Corps of Engineers potentially taking three to four months to obtain.

Discussion also touched on the condition of the 12th Street overlook, a historical feature some council members felt was in decline. Suggestions were made to address its deterioration in conjunction with the proposed project, with an emphasis on preserving historical features.

Another focus of the meeting was the approval of resolution 2025-73, which accepts a feasibility study and orders an improvement hearing for the 12th Street area project. Scheduled for November 5, the hearing will inform residents about the project and anticipated assessment rates, providing an opportunity for public engagement and feedback. The council also discussed a proposal for a topographical survey, priced at $35,800, to gather accurate data before winter. While some members expressed reservations about the survey’s cost, noting the timing relative to the public hearing as critical, others underscored its necessity for project planning and grant applications.

Funding for these infrastructure projects was a prominent topic, with references to a $2.75 million grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) as part of a broader funding effort. The council emphasized the importance of aligning project timelines with the grant application process, noting that substantial information and design details are important for strengthening applications.

In addition to infrastructure projects, the council addressed ongoing community initiatives. The city engineer provided updates on the 2025 street utility improvements project, Loveland Sport Court reconstruction, and the water system interconnection project. Each project involved financial considerations, with partial payments approved for contractors and changes in project timelines due to unforeseen challenges, such as bedrock removal.

The superintendent of public works reported on the annual MS4 public comment open house, focusing on stormwater management practices and compliance with environmental standards. The report highlighted community education efforts through the East Metro Water Resource Education Program and emphasized the importance of preventing illicit discharges into storm sewer systems. Improved stormwater management practices, such as the installation of grit chambers and enhanced street sweeping, were also discussed.

The meeting concluded with council reports and community announcements, including an upcoming prescription drug takeback event and a ribbon-cutting for new sports courts, which had already seen positive community engagement. The council encouraged resident feedback on ongoing projects and highlighted planned library events as Halloween approaches.