A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to stormwater management improvements slated for 2025 and 2026. The council discussed the allocation of local option sales tax funds to address stormwater issues, with an estimated cost of $3.5 million for the 2025 projects. Funding sources include city and state contributions, as well as a grant from the Local Road Improvement program. An open house is scheduled for October 23 to engage property owners affected by the upcoming improvements, with a public hearing planned for November 4. The council also discussed the narrowing of Fourth Street, with plans to reduce its width from 52 feet to 38 feet, addressing concerns about tree and sidewalk impacts. The council considered the introduction of a wheel tax to assist residents with assessment costs, showing a willingness to explore alternative funding sources.

Next on the agenda was the approval of an ordinance related to the sale of real property, integral to the Care Center transaction requested by CentraCare. This ordinance facilitates the transfer of the Care Center property to Cura, while ensuring the return of two other properties previously owned by Rice Home Medical back to the city. The council approved the ordinance unanimously, further enabling Corner Home Medical’s interest in the Redwood Falls property.

The council also addressed several infrastructure and development projects. Approval was granted for the vacation of drainage and utility easements to consolidate lots for the Waterview Senior Housing Development. This decision was followed by the approval of preliminary and final plats for the same development. A revised Tax Increment Financing (TIF) agreement was also approved, reducing the pledged assistance to the developer from $7.8 million to $5.1 million, with the agreement set for 26 years. Despite some debate over the duration, the motion passed with a majority vote.

In other infrastructure developments, the council reviewed a Professional Services agreement for runway lighting at the local airport, noting a favorable increase in federal funding from the FAA, reducing the city’s financial contribution. This agreement was approved without opposition.

The council also engaged in discussions about the “Safe Streets for All” project, which aims to develop a comprehensive safety plan for city roadways. The initiative involves community engagement and data analysis to identify high-risk areas, with plans to address safety concerns such as biking train crossings and uncontrolled intersections. The council acknowledged the need for both infrastructure improvements and educational outreach to enhance road safety.

Additionally, the council reviewed plans for a DNR trailhead restroom and shelter project, approving a sustainable “green flush restroom” design. This project, with a total budget of $250,000, is expected to commence in the spring, aligning with the grant deadline of June 30, 2025.

The meeting also touched on a fishing platform project at Robins Island Park, emphasizing accessibility and collaboration with the DNR for shoreline assessments. The council expressed interest in enhancing trail access to these platforms, with discussions on possible extensions to current structures.

Finally, the council addressed staffing needs at the Wilmar Police Department, approving a job description for a full-time Community Service Officer to alleviate the workload on licensed officers. The council also set public hearings for various assessments related to weed and grass mowing charges, fire alarm system charges, and the removal of an infectious tree.