The council’s examination of dynamic drive-thru signage emerged as a key focus of the meeting. A proposed ordinance amendment aimed to modernize the city’s approach to dynamic displays. The current zoning code’s limitations posed challenges for businesses like Taco Bell, which sought to replace static menu boards with dynamic displays. A representative from Border Foods, the operator of Taco Bell, attended the meeting to address the council’s concerns and discuss the proposal.

A council member raised apprehensions about the potential proliferation of dynamic signs and their impact on the community, emphasizing the difficulty in regulating content changes on such signs. There was a proposal to restrict businesses to one dynamic sign per property, advocating for a balance between modernization and regulation. The dialogue underscored the need for careful management to avert misuse and ensure compliance with city codes.

In response to these concerns, it was suggested that businesses opting for dynamic menu boards should forfeit the right to an additional main business sign. This measure aimed to simplify enforcement and mitigate issues related to brightness and changing content, which were highlighted by the Planning Commission. Another council member voiced concerns about unintended consequences, such as potential impacts on drive-thru functionality, stressing the importance of maintaining a business-friendly environment in Richfield.

Despite initial hesitations, the representatives from Border Foods expressed support for the proposed regulations, noting that similar rules in other cities had not hampered their operations. Staff members were tasked with preparing a revised ordinance for further review.

The meeting then shifted to labor negotiations, where the council considered a resolution to approve a labor contract with Teamsters 320, representing the sergeants’ bargaining unit. The contract, effective from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2025, included changes to vacation sell-back hours, holiday leave, health and dental insurance contributions, and wage adjustments. Acknowledging the tight labor market, the council approved a 3.0% cost-of-living adjustment and an 8.4% market adjustment for top-step sergeants in 2024, followed by a 3.0% COLA and a 1.0% market adjustment for all steps in 2025.

Additionally, the contract introduced a new specialty pay of $300 per month, effective January 1, 2025, to attract and retain talent in assignments demanding specialized skills, such as investigations or K9 units. The council expressed gratitude for the efforts of the city’s HR staff and union representatives in navigating the complexities of the negotiations.

As the meeting progressed, the council addressed routine matters such as approving claims and payroll, which passed without discussion. The City Manager’s report offered no new updates, allowing the council to move through the agenda.

In a lighter segment titled “Hats Off to Hometown Hits,” council members took the opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of city staff and the community. Remarks were made in appreciation of the city crews’ work during winter weather, ensuring safe road conditions, and the public works department’s swift response to a water main break. One member shared a positive experience with the IT department, praising their assistance in resolving technical issues.

Further accolades included recognition of a local high school athlete’s achievements and commendation for the recreation staff’s organization of the Candlelight and Ice event at Wood Lake Nature Center. A member also lauded the Richfield Middle School newspaper staff for their insightful interviews with a city official, focusing on urban planning and environmental considerations.