The primary focus of the meeting was on the water and wastewater budgets. The council approved a resolution that increases water rates starting January 1, with rises of 5.4% in 2025 and 11.6% in 2026. This decision was driven by the need to support the city’s wells, water treatment facilities, and distribution systems. Concerns were voiced about the necessity of such large increases, with one council member noting that previous years’ lack of incremental rate hikes had contributed to the current financial pressures. This member highlighted the challenges of maintaining a four-month operating reserve without transferring funds from the Wastewater fund, a past practice now discontinued.

Deliberations also covered substantial capital expenses for the wastewater budget, which includes $14.6 million earmarked for 2025 and $2.1 million for 2026. These funds will primarily address upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant, including biosolid improvements critical for compliance with environmental standards. The council acknowledged the need for these upgrades, despite the significant jump from $600,000 in capital expenses two years prior, and discussed the financial implications of maintaining outdated equipment.

In addressing these budgetary concerns, the council examined financing strategies, including the use of cash reserves and potential funding through the Public Facilities Authority. The necessity for gradual rate increases to better prepare for such financial demands was a recurring theme, with one member expressing concern that past decisions had not adequately anticipated these needs.

Following the fiscal discussions, the council unanimously approved a resolution establishing a mayor’s task force on childcare. The task force will aim to tackle the ongoing challenges of availability, cost, and provision of childcare services within the community. The initiative was supported by several council members, who emphasized the importance of addressing childcare from a community perspective.

The council also updated a mutual aid agreement with local governments to provide and receive emergency assistance. Notable changes included a reduction in the time before billing for aid begins, from 48 hours to 12 hours. This agreement, structured to renew automatically, aims to streamline administrative processes in emergency situations.

In addition to these resolutions, the council approved a new housing subdivision project, Traverse Green Subdivision Number Three, designed to meet the city’s growing housing demand. The project features 42 lots, with a partnership established with Miller Homes to construct 26 homes. Council members discussed the subdivision’s layout, including new roads and outlots, and emphasized the importance of transparent pricing for prospective buyers.

A resolution setting architectural design and home standards for the subdivision sparked debate among council members. Concerns were raised about restrictions on exterior siding materials and colors, with some advocating for more individual choice in home design. Despite differing viewpoints, the council ultimately passed the revised standards, which include specifications for home size, garage requirements, and other architectural details.

The meeting concluded with various reports from council members, including insights from a conference on childcare challenges and the importance of fostering childcare facilities in the community. The city’s involvement in the St. Peter Community Childcare Center, which has received city assistance over the years, was also highlighted. The meeting wrapped up with a closed session to discuss a real estate transaction, with council members recognizing the presence of local Boy Scouts in attendance.