The management action plan, a central topic of the meeting, laid out seven categories of goals for the council: infrastructure and public safety, economic development and business growth, financial stability and cost management, community facilities and public spaces, workforce and organizational development, sustainability and future planning, and service quality and community engagement. The council identified specific priorities, such as finalizing the community center resolution, investing in downtown development and road improvements, completing past projects like the water tower, and developing strategies to attract and retain staff.

The need for improved electronic security in city facilities was highlighted during the meeting. The council initially showed hesitation regarding a transition to a remote keyless card access system. However, insights from staff illustrated the operational efficiencies and security enhancements offered by the new system. The fire chief, Jason, explained that the system would include features like secured access for exterior doors, safety buttons for lockdown modes, and potential automatic opening systems for deliveries. These changes aim to replace the older punch code system, promising enhanced security and operational efficiency.

Financial planning was another focus, with discussions on a ten-year financial plan aimed at transitioning to a more cash-based approach, thereby improving the city’s financial management. The council explored potential cost savings by adjusting a financial item from 2028, reducing the projected cost from $2 million to approximately $1.7 million. Additionally, there was a discussion about using leftover funds from a completed debt service fund to finance upgrades to the problematic body camera and vehicle surveillance systems.

Economic development and business growth were also addressed, with updates on modernizing areas to attract families, increasing downtown density, and implementing a facade improvement program. The program offers up to 50% funding for facade enhancements, which has already been utilized by two businesses, generating interest from others.

In terms of public safety, the council discussed partnerships and grants aimed at preventing automobile theft. A collaboration with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office and White Bear Lake involves an automobile theft prevention grant, providing resources for investigations and introducing license plate reader cameras to track vehicles involved in thefts. This partnership aims to address the recent increase in auto thefts and improve the city’s ability to solve such crimes.

The meeting also reviewed progress on community spaces, highlighting improvements to Casey Lake Park. Public works removed old ball fields and enhanced the area with black dirt and extended irrigation, completing the project at a fraction of the estimated cost. The installation of a Gaga ball pit and improvements to pickleball courts were also noted.

Workforce and organizational development efforts included the implementation of a new payroll and HR system to modernize processes and improve personnel outreach. This was part of a broader review of personnel policies aimed at enhancing city operations. Additionally, the electric department’s efforts to engage younger staff in community projects and storm restoration were recognized, with the electric director highlighting recent staff achievements and awards.