The council’s decision to approve the implementation of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) for the electric system marked a notable advancement in utility management. With approximately 70% of the project already completed, the council discussed plans to integrate new electric meters into the existing system upon delivery. This upgrade includes an unplanned expense for approximately 160 meters needed for new apartment complexes under construction. The benefits of AMI were emphasized, particularly its ability to enhance customer service through remote readings and improved communication for those with delinquent accounts or high utility bills. The council unanimously passed the resolution.

The council also addressed the Gorman Park project, which comprised several interconnected components. A key part of the discussion was the approval of Neelson Construction as the general contractor for site preparation and utility work. Although the bids slightly exceeded the engineers’ estimate, the council was optimistic about reducing the project’s overall cost by approximately $200,000 through value engineering.

In tandem with the construction work, the council approved the purchase of new equipment for Gorman Park, achieving an estimated 8% discount through a state bidding process. The equipment was chosen for its inclusivity, catering to all ages and abilities, and the resolution for the equipment purchase passed unanimously. Additionally, the council considered the purchase of surfacing materials for the park, with Flagship Recreation as the sole bidder. The funding for this project would primarily come from AR funding and grants, with a potential contribution from the general fund if necessary.

In other agenda items, the council approved a resolution to increase the annual benefit for firefighters from $3,900 to $4,500, aligning St. Peter with similar communities and addressing upcoming retirements. This measure aims to maintain competitive benefits for recruitment. One council member, with a direct personal interest in the fire department, abstained from voting on this resolution, which was ultimately passed.

The council also moved to approve a new job description for the IT manager position, replacing a retiring individual. The revised job description includes enhanced responsibilities and qualifications. This resolution passed unanimously after a brief discussion.

During the meeting, the council swiftly approved a new on-sale and Sunday liquor license for Marco Balanos, operating as Taquera ELR. The police department’s background check revealed no issues, leading to another unanimous approval by the council.

A procedural highlight of the meeting was the approval of a resolution to request a loan from the Clean Water revolving fund for necessary improvements at the wastewater treatment facility. This step, characterized as a formality, ensures continued progress in the facility’s upgrades with the aid of Public Facilities Authority (PFA) funding.

Further, the meeting included a proclamation for Vietnam Veterans Day, honoring veterans’ sacrifices during the Vietnam War and encouraging community participation in the ceremonies scheduled for March 29, 2025, at the St. Peter Community Center.

Closing the session, the council addressed a resolution for a closed session regarding union negotiations and a property transaction. Upon returning to open session, they approved a labor contract with law enforcement labor services for communication technicians, which included a 3% wage increase for 2025 and necessary date corrections in the agreement.