The council’s discussions on the 2026 budget and the 2025 tax levy were central to the meeting’s agenda. The proposed budget, amounting to $13,132,043, along with the tax levy, had been preliminarily certified earlier in September. The council discussed the levy details, which included allocations for community amenities such as the swimming pool and the fire haul. During the meeting, a revised levy amount was presented, requiring formal adoption and submission to the county auditor by December 30th. Despite some procedural clarifications about the order of discussions, motions to approve both the budget and the tax levy passed without opposition.

In a noteworthy development, the council secured a grant to cover the full cost of purchasing and installing solar panels at the library. This project aims to meet the library’s energy requirements post-expansion, with the grant stipulating a 10% down payment, which will be reimbursed.

The council also addressed personnel matters, specifically the union contract and updates to the personnel policy. Following negotiations with union representatives, a three-year contract was recommended for approval, covering various city employees, including those at the library and the fire department. The council unanimously approved the contract.

Another item on the agenda was the approval of the proposed fee schedule for 2026, reviewed by department heads and staff. After recommendations from the finance committee, the council approved the fee schedule changes. In conjunction with this, utility rate increases for sewer and storm fees were discussed and approved, reflecting necessary adjustments to accommodate future infrastructure needs.

Revenues for 2025 were reported at $198,944.85, slightly below the previous year’s figures. Total expenses stood at $424,827.49, impacted by the pool resurfacing project’s costs, with remaining expenses to be settled upon the project’s completion in 2026.

The mayor’s report included expressions of condolences for community losses and a blend of personal reflections on the year’s final meeting. Upcoming events, such as a City Hall Christmas open house and reminders about the Cold Red system for snow removal, were also discussed. The mayor emphasized community engagement and safety during winter weather, noting the success of recent snow removal efforts with minimal tickets issued for parking violations.

The council recognized the achievements of the public works department, particularly the early opening of hockey rinks. The library director shared positive news about grant acquisition and the successful distribution of 300 gingerbread houses, underscoring community involvement. The fire chief reported an increase in calls throughout the month, detailing the department’s readiness and community service commitment.

The meeting concluded with plans for public hearings on zoning ordinance revisions, scheduled for February, and a brief mention of a community video project involving the sheriff’s office and the fire department, aimed at enhancing visibility and engagement.