The council explored the scope of upcoming improvements for the Nisswa Community Center, a facility that has seen increasing usage with 140 classes and programs, 97 nonprofit events, 37 parties, and 10 weddings hosted in 2024 alone. With projected revenue of approximately $177,000 for 2025, the council acknowledged the necessity for timely upgrades, given the rental schedule already extends into 2026. Proposed improvements, estimated to cost about $880,000, include updates to flooring, bathrooms, windows, exterior staining, LED lighting, and parking lot renovations. There was a consensus to conduct a walkthrough of the building with maintenance staff in early April to develop a plan for future upgrades.

Focus then shifted to the City Park’s existing infrastructure and funding sources for needed improvements. The council revisited issues identified since 2020, such as the inoperable refrigeration system and inadequate lighting at the hockey rink. Repair costs for lighting and refrigeration were estimated between $35,000 and $50,000, and $10,000, respectively. A feasibility study suggested replacement costs ranging from $1 million to $5.5 million, contingent on the operational scope desired. Community feedback from a 2022 survey informed the Parks master plan adopted in February 2023, integrating community desires for amenities like trails, playgrounds, a swimming beach, and pickleball courts.

The meeting also addressed the Nisswa Enrichment Fund’s goal of raising $600,000 for Phase One of park improvements, including a playground and pickleball courts. However, this goal was not met, leading to a proposal to establish a strategic fundraising committee. The council discussed potential funding mechanisms, including a local option sales tax, while emphasizing the importance of community engagement. Legal implications of city staff and council involvement in fundraising were also considered, with plans to seek legal counsel for guidance.

The council also explored options for addressing the hockey rink’s lighting and refrigeration issues. A portable light tower was proposed as a temporary solution to the lighting problem, with costs estimated between $10,000 and $15,000. For the refrigeration system, the removal of glycol and freon was recommended due to environmental concerns, with removal costs estimated between $8,000 and $10,000. Discussions emphasized maintaining rink operations over the winter while contemplating the implications of lighting and refrigeration system removal.

In other significant business, the council deliberated on amendments to the city code regarding sewer regulations. The proposal aimed to streamline processes by allowing monitoring and disposal contracts between landowners and licensed maintainers, eliminating the need for conditional use and operating permits for holding tanks. This change addresses scenarios where existing drain fields fail, posing public health threats that necessitate immediate action.

The meeting also included a discussion on the Nisswa Chamber’s request for funding the Freedom Days fireworks. Despite challenges in securing sponsorship, the chamber underscored the importance of the fireworks as a community attraction. The council expressed willingness to support the initiative, contingent on collaboration with the liquor committee for fundraising efforts.

Additionally, updates to fire department bylaws were approved, allowing firefighters to serve beyond the age of 65, provided they pass a physical every two years. The council also approved the promotion of Sergeant Todd Samansky to Police Chief, effective June 26, after reviewing compensation and benefits.