The most development during the meeting was the approval of an amended development agreement with BRM Holdings, which aims to construct 25 additional units adjacent to their existing Capital Lofts project. The council deliberated on a request from BRM Holdings for tax increment financing assistance. The amendment involved increasing the note amount by $472,500, with a new stipulation for income restrictions on 20% of all units, including the new ones, to ensure affordability. It was clarified that the tax increment distribution would allocate 90% to the developer, while 10% could be used for administrative expenses or other qualified housing projects. The council approved the resolution after considering these factors, setting the note maturity for 2027, with reimbursements to follow. This development is anticipated to contribute to the city’s housing stock while addressing affordability.

Another focal point of the meeting was the council’s acceptance of a study evaluating the Washington Avenue and Broadway intersection. The study, part of a broader analysis involving six major intersections, recommended installing a single-lane roundabout to enhance traffic flow and reduce accidents. While the council expressed concerns about parking and the proximity of park areas, they emphasized that accepting the study would not commit them to a specific design, thus retaining flexibility. The resolution passed without opposition, with the study’s findings intended to support future federal funding applications.

The council also dealt with several resolutions concerning unpaid charges. These included assessments for non-right-of-way work such as sidewalk repairs and lawn mowing, totaling $29,491.745. Additionally, the council discussed uncollectible charges of $5,350 from rental registration fees and Recreation program fees due to payment issues. The council swiftly approved the resolution to prepare assessments for these miscellaneous charges. A subsequent resolution addressed delinquent utility accounts, noting a total of $1,454.49 in past-due accounts as of May 31, 2024. The council praised staff efforts in managing these accounts, noting the relatively small amounts compared to those reported by other cities. They also highlighted technological improvements that enabled quicker responses to delinquencies. The council moved forward with a resolution for a public hearing on these unpaid utility charges.

In addition, the council renewed a safety contract with the Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association, budgeting approximately $28,000 for safety programs and lineman training.

The meeting concluded with reports from council members. One member shared insights from the Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency’s annual board meeting, noting the absence of planned rate increases and strong financial health. Discussions on the underutilization of the Sherco coal plant and potential investments in transmission line infrastructure were also mentioned.

Furthermore, the city administrator addressed community inquiries about leaf pickup, confirming ongoing collection efforts until Thanksgiving and advising residents on proper leaf placement to prevent drainage issues.

The council also approved a motion for a closed session to discuss a potential real estate transaction in the North Industrial Park Subdivision number three, with no immediate action to be taken that evening.