A central topic of concern was street safety and modification plans, particularly focused on South Broadway and South Ash streets. Sharon, a resident of South Broadway, voiced her apprehension about the safety of the streets and the financial burden of potential modifications. She noted the removal of sidewalks approved by a previous council, which was frustrating due to her past involvement in their installation. Her primary concerns included the disruption caused by relocating street signs, mailboxes, and telephone poles, alongside questions about the logic behind narrowing streets. Sharon emphasized, “I can’t find where it says narrow street show slow people down,” highlighting her skepticism about the proposed plans. She also raised the issue of brown water in her home and questioned whether the street changes would address this ongoing problem.

Adding to the discussion, Mar, a long-time resident of South Ash, shared her perspective on the proposed street widening intended to improve school bus safety. Mar argued that increasing the street width could inadvertently allow parents to bypass stopped school buses, countering the intended safety measures. She suggested that implementing a one-way street during school hours might be a more effective solution. Marilyn, another resident, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the challenges posed by parking and traffic dynamics. She argued that the costs associated with relocating utility poles and infrastructure could exceed $100,000, burdening taxpayers. Marilyn also mentioned drainage problems and the need for utility updates beneath the streets, noting no significant repairs had been made since the 1980s.

The council’s discussion extended to broader infrastructure issues, including sidewalk maintenance and drainage solutions. One speaker highlighted the poor condition of existing sidewalks, contrasting them with their own well-maintained sidewalk that had remained crack-free for over 40 years. The need for improved drainage solutions to prevent flooding during spring melts was also emphasized. The speaker recommended implementing double culverts to enhance water flow. Additionally, traffic management around the school, especially during preschool drop-off times, was highlighted as a concern, with suggestions made to widen the road by three to four feet near the playground for improved safety.

In the midst of these discussions, the council also touched upon public service updates and maintenance challenges. Issues with the primary clarifier at the wastewater treatment plant were noted, particularly concerning a weathered oil gasket that required replacement. Solutions were proposed to modify equipment to prevent future ice buildup, emphasizing timely maintenance to avoid costly repairs. The need for safety upgrades at lift stations was also highlighted, with quotes being obtained for necessary hatches due to safety concerns.

Further, the council addressed a proposal for a utility service expenditure involving J&R Utility Service. The proposal sought approval for a three-day service to assess labber gate bills, costing $3,600. Discussions included necessary parts for Zarth Brush Works and the need for a commercial-grade hot pressure washer, with a preference expressed for Express Pressure Washers based on positive past experiences.

The council also reviewed the December 2024 check register, leading to brief inquiries regarding specific charges. A motion to accept the check register was unanimously approved. Updates on the transition to a new ambulance billing service were provided, with the process still underway. Training for the police chief at the Cleo Command Academy was approved, with the training deemed budget-friendly and eligible for reimbursement.

A zoning change petition for an event center seeking to shift its designation from R1 to C1 was addressed, with a public hearing proposed for March 10, 2025. Concerns around parking were raised, but the Planning and Zoning Commission supported the request.