The traffic signal project emerged as a central focus, with the council collaborating with MNDOT to address safety concerns at a critical intersection. The city committed approximately $379,287 towards the project, while seeking $997,000 in state funding. Council members expressed satisfaction that the current financial commitment was slightly more than a prior Economic Development Authority (EDA) commitment for traffic lights. However, they voiced concerns about future financial responsibilities, particularly regarding a planned roundabout in the area, which could exceed $6 million. The council emphasized the importance of external funding to alleviate the city’s financial burden, with MNDOT aiming to advance the project by August 2026. The potential delay due to federal funding complexities raised additional concerns, particularly as development in the area accelerates with the anticipated east-side outlet mall and hotel.

The council addressed the feasibility of warning lights to prepare drivers for the upcoming signal, especially given the high-speed nature of the area. While some members questioned their effectiveness, the measure was seen as a necessary compromise due to funding constraints. The council acknowledged the temporary nature of the solution and the need for ongoing dialogue with state partners to ensure long-term traffic safety improvements.

The meeting also featured a comprehensive presentation of the 2024 year-end audit by Andrew from Smith Schaefer Associates. The audit received a clean, unmodified opinion. Andrew highlighted the city’s strong accounting records and compliance with Minnesota legal requirements, which included testing areas such as conflict of interest and contract law. The audit revealed a growth in the total tax capacity and property tax collections. Despite some budget categories exceeding projections, particularly in salaries and benefits, the city’s strategic planning and careful budgeting were praised.

Discussions about capital projects included plans for purchasing a plow truck and three vehicles as part of the city’s capital improvements for 2024. The council reviewed the debt service fund, noting the lowest outstanding debt in the past decade. Pension liabilities were also examined, with the city’s multi-employer pension plan resulting in an underfunded liability. However, the fire department relief pension plan reported a net pension asset.

The council swiftly approved an application for a massage therapist license for Shing Yang Zang, following a favorable background check. The Public Works Director presented names for approval for full-time positions, maintaining the department’s staffing levels despite personnel changes. The council unanimously approved the recommended personnel.

The mayor reported on community events, expressing sympathies for recent losses and celebrating a local resident’s 106th birthday. Upcoming volunteer opportunities, including the Red Cross campaign and local events like a Belgian waffle breakfast and spaghetti dinner, were highlighted. The mayor encouraged participation in community cleanup days, scheduled for May, to enhance property appearances.

The city administrator introduced a new staff member, Kelly Grabwell, who quickly adapted to her role. The Public Works Director provided updates on equipment and infrastructure projects, noting favorable weather conditions contributing to successful street maintenance. The city engineer discussed potential future adjustments in water sourcing strategies due to DNR limitations on drilling into the Jordan aquifer, which could impact costs and licensing requirements.