One item at the meeting was the approval of a proposal presented by Joe Call, the head boys basketball coach, regarding the long-discussed expansion of an outdoor basketball court. The plan involves extending the court by 15 feet to the south and 10 feet to the east and applying a sport cork finish to the new slab. The estimated cost for this enhancement is around $40,000, which the Pierz Boys Basketball Club has committed to covering entirely. The club also expressed readiness to assist in future maintenance of the court. The council members showed general support for the project, discussing logistical concerns such as lighting for nighttime play and potential flooding. Assurances were made that the slab design would mitigate flooding risks and that current lighting would suffice, with the possibility of installing additional lights if needed. Legal permissions for the court’s placement were also a topic of discussion, as the location had been considered for other projects, including golf course parking.

A motion to proceed with the project, contingent on obtaining necessary legal approvals, was made and received unanimous support from the council. The project is expected to begin in the spring, with additional resources and expertise offered through connections with individuals experienced in dealing with county regulations.

Another topic was the in-depth discussion on PTO payouts for city employees. The council revisited a decision made in April to provide a one-time payout due to changes in the benefits program. Members debated the possibility of making this payout an annual benefit, with some expressing that they initially believed it would recur, while others warned against setting a precedent. The conversation highlighted the need to consider employees’ circumstances, particularly those unable to use their PTO. A motion was made to offer employees a payout of up to 80 hours of PTO if they were at risk of losing it, with the decision to be made each year at the first meeting in October. This motion was seconded and passed, with the agreement that the employee advisory committee would handle specific employee situations discreetly.

The meeting also included updates from the police department, specifically the installation of a new camera system funded by a $6,000 contribution from F&M Bank. This system aims to enhance law enforcement capabilities within Morrison County. The police chief expressed gratitude for the bank’s support, noting that one camera was already operational, with more installations planned soon. This initiative positions Pierz as one of the first communities in the county to implement such technology, allowing for collaboration with other agencies.

Recognition was given to Officer Preston for his three years of service to the community. A statement was read by the police chief, thanking Preston for his dedication and professionalism and acknowledging his positive impact in challenging situations. A plaque was presented to Officer Preston in recognition of his contributions.

Additionally, the city administrator reported on ongoing issues with a red Ford vehicle from the public works department, which was experiencing transmission problems. The administrator also provided an update on clubhouse renovations, including approved bids for an exhaust and fire suppression system. Equipment for these renovations is expected to be installed by mid-November, with community members assisting in removing items that could harbor bacteria. Plans for new flooring are underway, with quotes anticipated for the park board’s next meeting.