The council’s decision to approve the purchase of a new aerial bucket truck highlighted the meeting due to the rising maintenance costs of the current equipment. The new 2025 Track High Ranger aerial bucket truck, priced at approximately $188,905, will replace a model that has incurred annual maintenance costs around $7,500. Despite budgeting around $164,000 for this purchase, the council considered the trade-in value of $36,000 for the old unit, which brought the expenditure within a more manageable range. The new truck, with its 40-foot lift capacity, is deemed essential for the maintenance of street lights, especially those along Highway 169, where the city has a maintenance agreement. Council members discussed the necessity of the lift’s height, ultimately passing the resolution to proceed with the purchase unanimously.

In another notable decision, the council approved new liquor licenses for El Masalon Mexican Restaurant, located at the former KFC site on Old Minnesota Avenue. The approved licenses include an on-sale liquor license and a Sunday liquor license, with a duration from May 1 to the end of June, consistent with state law requirements. Background checks conducted on the establishment revealed no prohibitive issues. Clarifications were provided regarding the separation of the Sunday liquor license, attributed to state statutes that dictate different operational hours and regulations for Sundays. The council passed the resolution unanimously following a motion and a second.

The meeting further addressed a request for city assistance in facilitating the American Legion Post 37’s Memorial Day Walk of Honor Parade. The parade is characterized by its simplicity, featuring only two units, the American Legion and a marching band. The council discussed the need for appropriate licensing for the event, with the resolution specifying that failure to secure licensing would result in the parade permit not being approved. Mayor Shanon Nowell acknowledged the American Legion’s contributions, particularly their successful Memorial Day program at Minnesota Square Park. The resolution for city assistance was approved following unanimous agreement from the council.

Attention was also given to the Gorman Park reimbursement resolution, which is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to improve the park through a phased planning approach. The resolution authorizes reimbursement for expenses already incurred under phase one, allowing the city to issue debt if necessary to cover remaining costs. This precautionary measure ensures compliance with Internal Revenue Code regulations on reimbursement bonds. With the first phase nearing funding completion and the second phase yet unfunded, the council approved the resolution to maintain project momentum.

Reports from council members and the city administrator concluded the meeting. One member highlighted their involvement with the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities and the economic development committee, focusing on recruitment and retention initiatives. Efforts to collaborate with Explore Minnesota were discussed. The city administrator provided updates on a recent joint meeting with the school board, emphasizing the importance of collaborative relationships for community development. He also noted the operational status of city park restrooms and promoted the summer recreation program lineup.