One of the most notable actions taken during the meeting was the approval of a resolution for the annexation of three tracts of land into the city. A public hearing was held to allow for comments and objections to the annexation before the council returned to regular business. The council voted to approve the resolution, following prior discussions and approval from High Forest Township. This annexation is expected to impact city planning and development positively and was considered a major agenda item due to its potential to expand Stewartville’s municipal boundaries and influence.

Another major topic was the discussion surrounding the Highway 63 and Schuman Drive traffic signal project. The council discussed the scope and payment conditions for consulting work on the temporary signal design and safety improvements. A supplemental agreement was also considered, with a focus on the eligibility of these improvements for funding. The council authorized the City Administrator to sign the supplemental letter agreement, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance traffic safety and infrastructure development. The project timeline aims for design and bid advertisement by July, with contract approval anticipated in August, and the estimated fee included expenses and equipment costs.

In related infrastructure updates, the council discussed a local partnership program fund aimed at safety improvements for the IA 63 project.

The council also addressed the General Development Plan update for the Schuman Business Park, which included a preliminary plat for the extension of Second Avenue Northwest. After a previous public hearing by the Planning Commission and a recommendation for approval, the council discussed timelines and requirements for final approval. A motion was made to approve the revised General Development Plan pending the city engineer’s review.

On the personnel front, the council addressed the upcoming departure of the current finance director, leading to an advertisement for a new finance officer position. An updated job description was presented.

City insurance was another key topic, with Ficia Nelson from First American Insurance providing an overview of the city’s 2024 coverage. She detailed dividends the city would receive due to a favorable claims history, contributing to potential credits towards insurance premiums. The council voted not to waive monetary limits of liability for claims against the city, maintaining historical precedent.

The meeting also included practical matters such as the approval of a bid for HVAC replacement at the Civic Center. The council accepted the lowest bid from Superior Mechanical, emphasizing the need for timely action due to changes in refrigerant regulations. Additionally, Public Works proposed purchasing a stand-on spreader sprayer for city grounds maintenance, with the bid below state contracted pricing.

Public Works reported on plumbing issues at the Wastewater Plant control room, requiring prompt action due to the risk of catastrophic failure. The lowest bid for repairs was presented, and the council discussed maintenance of ponds in Maple Brook, constrained by regulatory limits on actions in designated wetlands.

The Mayor’s report included community updates and reminders, such as condolences to families of recently deceased community members and encouragement for participation in winter sports. The Mayor also highlighted the importance of signing up for the Code Red alert system for plowing notifications.

The City Administrator provided updates on development opportunities and housing summit findings, while the Finance Director mentioned ongoing recruitment efforts. The City Engineer discussed plans for upcoming CIP projects and confirmed application submissions for funding related to the Legacy project and signal improvements.