A major topic of discussion centered around the potential joint powers agreement between the city and the state to enhance recreational use of local land. Forest Peterson, representing the Wilmar Nordic Ski Club, advocated for the agreement, which would allow the city to manage state-owned trails, supported by volunteers from the ski club and the Wilmar Bikes group. Peterson highlighted the club’s long-time use of the land for cross-country skiing and the economic and social benefits it brings to the community. He noted that invasive species and solid waste have been challenges, but volunteer efforts have been instrumental in maintaining the trails. The council showed support for the joint powers agreement, which would involve the city taking on maintenance responsibilities, potentially contracting with the ski club to fulfill these obligations.

Simultaneously, the council faced concerns over the increasing costs of criminal prosecution services. With current projections reaching $330,000 for 2027, suggestions were made to explore hiring an independent attorney to manage these services. The council expressed openness to this idea but did not take immediate action.

The council also addressed compliance issues related to alcohol sales. Three local establishments, including Giovan’s Pizza and Tapao LLC, were cited for failing to adhere to ID-checking regulations. Business owners presented their corrective measures, such as enhanced staff training and age verification tools, to prevent future violations. The council emphasized the importance of compliance to uphold public safety and city ordinances.

In addition to these discussions, the council reviewed plans for an outdoor rink pavilion project, with a budget set at approximately $1.42 million. Concerns were raised regarding potential cost overruns and the necessity of community fundraising if bids exceed allocated funds. The project includes concrete and gravel surfaces, stormwater management improvements, and a fabric roof. The council approved the plans and authorized the advertisement for bids, acknowledging the community’s expectations for the project due to contributions from the local hockey association.

Another focus of the meeting was the upcoming cannabis ordinances. The operations director outlined the zoning and registration regulations for cannabis businesses, which will be limited to the general business districts and central business district. The council discussed buffer zones to prevent cannabis businesses from operating near sensitive areas like schools and daycares. The licensing process, expected to begin in mid-2025, will involve a lottery system, with the city having authority over zoning and local compliance.

The council also discussed the renewal of Sunday liquor licenses and THC product sales licenses, approving all applications except for one establishment that chose not to renew. The meeting closed with reflections on community achievements and the future of the community center, following the YMCA board’s withdrawal from the project. The council expressed a need to evaluate the current building and consider alternative options for the community center and City Hall projects.