A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a presentation from Alicia Nelson of First American Insurance, who detailed the city’s insurance coverage updates. Nelson explained the options regarding tort liability designations, emphasizing the council’s preference for maintaining the current practice of not waiving statutory limits, which caps individual claim recoveries at $500,000 despite the city’s million-dollar coverage policy. This proposal was unanimously approved by the council.

Nelson further informed the council about a 5% decrease in property coverage costs, contrasted by a 10% increase in commercial auto physical damage costs. Furthermore, there was a potential 25% reduction in workers’ compensation costs, contingent upon the city’s claims history and payroll increases. However, no program dividends would be issued for the year, with the League of Minnesota Cities opting to retain funds to stabilize rates and enhance coverages. Decisions regarding dividends for 2026 are anticipated in June.

Additionally, Nelson highlighted increases in cyber liability coverage and medical payment limits, which rose from $2,500 to $5,000 per claimant. New coverages for sewer backup claims were also introduced, dependent on the city’s negligence. Debris removal limits for non-covered property damage were increased from $50,000 to $100,000 per occurrence. The council expressed satisfaction with the low claim activity, a factor Nelson noted made Stewartville an “easy client to service.”

In another notable agenda item, the council approved a massage therapy business license for Relax Wellness LLC, located on North Main Street. The application, a renewal due to a change in ownership, was approved without opposition.

The council also discussed and approved a joint agreement with High Forest Township concerning road maintenance and fire hall rental. The updated agreement, already approved by the township, featured simplified payment processes and equitable contributions toward road maintenance. Notably, one previously included avenue was removed as it is now classified as a city street.

Mayor Jimmie-John King took a moment during his report to express condolences to the families of several recently deceased citizens and welcomed back a staff member named Jen. He also announced a blood drive organized by Z Church, set for January 19, urging community participation.

Additionally, the Chamber of Commerce announced that the Winterfest events are scheduled for February 6th and 7th, with further details available in local news outlets. The council also briefly touched on potential events to celebrate the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday.

The administrator’s report mentioned potential construction projects and the need for a workshop in the late winter or early spring to discuss these plans in detail. The Public Works Director highlighted the challenges faced in maintaining the ice rink during winter conditions, while the city engineer discussed ongoing projects and the need to set bidding dates contingent on funding.

Lastly, the Fire Chief updated the council on emergency responses, noting 75 calls for service in December, and announced a community initiative encouraging residents to clear fire hydrants, accompanied by a contest to stimulate participation. The Chamber of Commerce representative emphasized the urgency for businesses to RSVP for the annual banquet to ensure proper food preparations and announced sponsorship opportunities for the upcoming Winterfest.