One focus of the meeting was the decision to establish a second polling location in response to rising voter turnout that had previously led to long wait times. To rectify this, the council approved a plan to designate two polling places based on voters’ geographic location. Voters residing south of Highway 30 will continue to cast their ballots at the Stewartville Civic Center, while those living north of Highway 30 will use the American Legion as their polling station. This decision followed discussions with county officials who confirmed that while a second ballot machine could not be installed, a second polling site was feasible. The American Legion agreed to serve as the additional location, with security measures ensuring the separation of the voting area from other parts of the building. The public hearing segment on this topic was largely supportive, with an election judge affirming the necessity of these changes. Public inquiries regarding the cost and potential for alternative locations were addressed, clarifying that there would be no additional costs for using the Legion and emphasizing the importance of planning for future growth to prevent overcrowding.

In financial matters, the council approved a resolution for special assessments related to unpaid utility charges after confirming that affected property owners had been notified. Additionally, the council awarded the snow hauling contract to Yagi Trucking, which submitted a lower bid of $110 per hour compared to another offer, thereby ensuring cost-effective readiness for the winter season. This decision was made unanimously.

The council also considered future equipment needs by discussing the purchase of a new front-end loader as part of the capital equipment plan for 2026. The timing of this purchase was influenced by an impending 3% price increase after November 1st. The council, upon reviewing the significant trade-in value and overall cost, approved proceeding with the order before the price hike.

In reports from city staff, the administrator discussed efforts to secure a grant for improving 15th Avenue, highlighting positive developments in county support and ongoing discussions with High Forest Township. The importance of lobbying the legislature for additional funding was also mentioned, should the grant not materialize. The public works director addressed maintenance concerns in the Maple Brook subdivision, specifically regarding leaving native wild areas untouched despite some resident dissatisfaction. He also reported on compliance issues at the brush dump, noting the need for corrections due to feedback from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). The increasing volume of material and the presence of garbage in the compost have prompted considerations for closer monitoring and possibly restricting access to non-residents, as many users appear to come from outside the city.

The library director provided updates on the library’s activities, including new book orders, school deliveries, and preparations to serve as a trick-or-treat destination. The absence of inter-library loan services for local schools has led the library to initiate agency cards for teachers and students. These efforts highlight the library’s role in supporting educational needs and community engagement.

Community events were also a focus, with the council highlighting upcoming activities such as a Halloween party at the American Legion and other seasonal festivities. These events, along with reminders of city hall and library closures for Veterans Day, demonstrate the council’s attention to fostering community spirit and ensuring residents are informed of city operations.