The comprehensive strategy includes repurposing lanes for on-street parking, a move that raised concerns about access during emergency situations. The council also discussed the necessity of updating land use policies to accommodate the proposed development pattern, stressing the importance of connecting the north and south areas of the city while preserving the residential character in the face of commercial development.

In conjunction with the downtown master plan, the council considered implementing the Main Street program, which relies on a staff person and volunteers to organize events and support small property and business owners. This program is expected to drive economic development through revitalization efforts. The council’s approval of the plan for submission is a step toward securing state grant funding to further these objectives.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to debating potential changes to the pension plan for city employees. Deliberations focused on the options for a 25-year or a 30-year retirement plan and whether to include overtime in the calculation of retirement compensation. The council members and pension board representatives discussed the implications of these changes on city budget and union negotiations. The need for further discussion and the involvement of the union in decision-making was highlighted, with the city manager underlining the impact on employees and the importance of contract negotiations.

The council also addressed a proposal related to the ongoing Union contract negotiations, opting to table the issue until after negotiations were completed. This resolution passed following a motion and a vote. Furthermore, the council approved a resolution for the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees General Employee Union contract, which had been negotiated with the union and the HR director. The contract included an exhibit outlining the positions covered by the union.

Infrastructure projects were another focal point of the meeting. The city council approved a proposal from r Pierce Inc. for stormwater retention improvements in the Southeast Fifth Street area to mitigate frequent flooding. The project’s funding sources were identified as the stormwater budget and miscellaneous funds, with potential grant funding also being considered. Additionally, a resolution for a design project on Northwest 7th Street was approved, despite concerns from the chief of police and no guaranteed grant for construction.

A public hearing on the annexation of the old Middle School property was another key subject. The applicant sought annexation to enable future development, sparking debate over potential property tax impacts and land use, including concerns about a marijuana operation. Nonetheless, the council approved the annexation ordinance, citing the potential for job creation and urban development.

Lastly, the council conducted a second reading of an ordinance amending the city’s code regarding election qualification dates and vacancies in office. After clarifications and discussions, including a surprise at a specific provision, the ordinance moved forward.