The decision to ban roosters, part of an amendment to Chapter 90 concerning animals, sparked notable public debate. Residents expressed dissatisfaction, arguing that the ordinance unfairly targets roosters. Carol Hackmack voiced her concerns, highlighting what she perceived as an inconsistency in enforcing nuisance ordinances. Hackmack argued that other animals, such as excessively barking dogs, also contribute to neighborhood disturbances, and urged the council to reconsider the ordinance to ensure equitable treatment for all animals. Chad Parrish echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of roosters for local egg production and advocating for responsible ownership and community education rather than an outright ban.

In addition to the rooster ordinance, the council passed several other key resolutions. A notable resolution involved a pension increase for the Owatonna Firefighters Relief Association. The council approved a $1,000 increase in pension benefits, raising the level to $12,500. This decision was facilitated by the association’s strong financial position, with funding levels exceeding 142%.

Another resolution focused on hazard mitigation, amending a previous resolution to acquire flood-prone properties. This amendment allows the city to apply for additional funds from the Department of Natural Resources. The estimated cost for this initiative is $225,000, with grants expected to cover a substantial portion of the expenses.

The council also approved a professional services agreement for the airport taxi lane and parking lot design with SEH Incorporated. This project, with a total cost of $66,500, will be largely funded through grants, minimizing the city’s financial burden. The approval of a change order for the dome hangar roof replacement project followed, with additional repairs necessitating an extra $44,358.70. Despite exceeding the original estimate, the change order remains within grant limits.

In other business, the council reviewed a food and beverage vendor agreement with Chilli Key for Brooktree Golf Course. This agreement, spanning three years with possible extensions, was met with eagerness from council members who welcomed Chilli Key’s return. The council also considered a liquor and tobacco license for Chilli Key, contingent upon securing necessary insurance.

Sean Murphy introduced requests for SCADA programming services for lift stations, highlighting the need for modernizing the city’s infrastructure. The agreement with AE2S, capped at $43,400, will be funded from sanitary sewer resources. Additionally, an agreement for electrical improvements at other lift stations was discussed, not to exceed $78,800. These technological upgrades aim to enhance monitoring capabilities across the city’s sewer system.

The council also tackled the subject of a municipal cannabis dispensary. The Red Pine Group proposed a partnership with the city, offering to finance and operate the dispensary, with the city receiving a portion of the net profits. While some council members expressed skepticism, others acknowledged the potential revenue benefits, urging careful consideration of the agreement’s terms.

Public comments during the meeting extended beyond the rooster ban, touching on broader city planning issues. Melissa Zimmerman raised safety concerns regarding the East Side Corridor project, questioning the proximity of the proposed highway to residential areas. Matt Senna addressed noise pollution concerns, advocating for effective communication between the council and residents. These comments reflect ongoing community engagement in shaping city policies and infrastructure projects.

The meeting concluded with updates on building construction, noting progress on various projects, including residential and commercial developments. Certificates of occupancy were issued for several businesses, signaling continued growth and development in Owatonna.