06:05The most notable topic at the meeting was the 2025 sanitary sewer rehabilitation project. Introduced by the city engineer, this project targets the restoration of aging cast iron and clay tile pipes underlying the streets, aimed at reducing inflow and infiltration of unwanted water into the sewage system.

09:39The project is currently budgeted, with bids expected to go out in June, and aims for completion by September. The council considered making these rehabilitation efforts a regular feature, possibly on an annual or semi-annual basis, to maintain the integrity of the system over time. The engineer detailed the cost-effectiveness of using a cured-in-place pipe method, which provides a 30 to 40% cost savings over traditional excavation. This method also minimizes disruption to residents, a point emphasized during the meeting. Additionally, the resin used in this process is anticipated to have a lifespan comparable to that of PVC piping, estimated at 90 to 100 years.

11:45Another agenda item was the authorization of a joint powers agreement with McLeod County for infrastructure improvements on County State Aid Highway 1, also known as Babco Avenue. The city will work collaboratively with the county to replace hydrants and gate valves, with the city handling surveys and inspections while the county manages the overall project. This partnership exemplifies the city’s strategy to leverage shared resources for infrastructure development.

15:09The 2027 infrastructure improvement project was also a focus at the meeting. This project is part of the city’s pavement management plan, which aims to maintain a reliable local transportation system. The city manages about 10 miles of streets, and the plan helps prioritize repairs in a cost-effective manner. The council reviewed updates to the plan, identifying streets needing immediate attention. The 2027 project will consolidate several streets—Fifth Street, Caroline Avenue, Gley, Sherman, Arthur Avenue, and Barrett Street—into a single project due to their similar needs for curb, gutter, and asphalt replacement, along with updates to water mains and storm sewers.

20:21The consolidation aims to create efficiencies in both execution and funding. A separate project on Zion Avenue is being considered for alternative funding due to its role as a collector route and its relation to future development. The city’s assessment policy will guide financial aspects, with approximately 40% of street costs assessed to property owners while the city covers the remaining 60%. The council discussed the benefits of a unit assessment model to ensure fairness among property owners, including those with corner lots.

22:20A feasibility study for the 2027 improvement project was proposed and authorized, which will provide vital information on soil conditions and pavement specifications for cost estimates. The timeline for the project includes an open house in July, an improvement hearing in April 2026, and construction starting in the spring of 2027. Property owners will not face assessments until 2028, allowing time for communication and preparation.