for a Certificate of Survey for the McNite Athletic Complex. This survey will cover the entire 21-acre property, providing essential data for future development plans. The discussion on this item underscored the importance of understanding elevation and drainage issues, which have been problematic in the past. The detailed overview from the survey is expected to guide any necessary grading and water management improvements, though it will not include specific remedial actions.

The funding for the survey will come from a reallocation of resources initially designated for a different project at Casey Lake.

Public safety concerns were also brought to the forefront during the meeting. Resident Joseph Forn voiced his worries regarding the intersection at Fifth Street, Seventh, and Third Street North, and South Avenue, citing frequent near-misses. He highlighted issues with drivers ignoring stop signs and suggested that a roundabout might be a more effective solution than traditional traffic lights, which can malfunction in adverse weather conditions. Forn’s comments emphasized the urgency of addressing these safety issues to prevent accidents, aligning with the city’s comprehensive plan that already includes roundabout proposals.

The city manager provided updates on several ongoing initiatives across different departments. Notably, the electric department is finalizing an EV rebate program to support home charging for electric vehicles, alongside introducing a time-of-day charging rate. The department is also preparing for next year’s underground projects due to long equipment order times. Recognition was given to the department’s superintendent for receiving an award at a utility conference, highlighting the department’s achievements.

The public works department reported progress on road projects, including paving on Bule and completing curb and gutter work. In addition, the removal of a pond at Casey Lake Ballfield has commenced, and a windscreen for Housy Park has been ordered to mitigate noise concerns. The fire department is conducting compliance inspections for local businesses and preparing for a live burn training event scheduled for October 17. The department’s Booya event is planned for October 5.

Community events were also a focus, with the communications department organizing the upcoming Autumn Arts Festival on September 13 and the fall roundup parade on September 18. A community giveback event supporting the local food shelf is planned for September 27, followed by a social gathering with pizza. The human resources department is implementing Paycom software and will conduct staff training the following week. The finance department is concentrating on budget preparations and levy discussions, while the police department works toward full staffing levels.

The Parks and Recreation Commission provided updates on recent activities, including the installation of a Gaga ball pit in Northwood. The Economic Development Authority and the Arts and Culture Commission are scheduled to meet soon, with the latter discussing festival preparations and volunteer needs. The Planning Commission is set to convene to address conditional use permits and zoning ordinance amendments related to Cow and Elementary School.

The meeting concluded with council members expressing enthusiasm about attending a student-built house open house, reflecting on past experiences with the program. Discussion also included a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a local wedding shop chapel, highlighting community engagement, and an interesting mention of a local facility offering TSA pre-check background checks.