15:46One council member voiced apprehension about the financial burden the hike could impose on residents. Despite this concern, the member acknowledged the necessity of the rate adjustment, stating that the city “had to do it” to continue funding infrastructure improvements. These improvements include a mill and overlay on McLeod County Road One and the installation of three gate valves and five hydrants, projects essential for maintaining and upgrading the city’s water infrastructure.

Neil, presumably the City Administrator, elaborated on the need for the increase, citing the expensive requirement for a new well. He expressed hope that such significant costs would not be a recurring issue in future budgets. Following the discussion, the council voted on ordinance number O-24 D04 to establish the 2025 fee schedule, passing the motion with one dissenting vote.

In addition to the water rate adjustments, the council also addressed several other matters. One such item was a minor subdivision request from St. John’s Lutheran Church. The church sought to separate its parsonage from its main property. The Planning Commission had reviewed the request and recommended approval, subject to certain conditions, including variances for side and backyard setbacks. The council unanimously approved the subdivision.

A similar resolution involved a minor subdivision for Grass Lake Farm Third Edition, aimed at creating new parkland. This proposal also received unanimous approval, following the Planning Commission’s recommendation.

The council then turned to financial matters, discussing resolution R-24-49, which outlined the final property tax levy for 2025. The proposed levy totaled $1,995,410. The increase was attributed to rising operational costs and declining property values in the city. The council noted that this would translate to an additional cost of approximately $10.30 per month for the average homeowner. After some discussion, the council adopted the final property tax levy with a unanimous vote.

In conjunction with the levy, the council approved the 2025 budget through resolution R-24-50. This budget was projected to result in a modest surplus of about $88,000. The motion to adopt the budget passed without opposition.

Amid the council’s discussions, community concerns were also addressed. During the open forum section of the meeting, a community member reminded attendees of winter parking regulations, emphasizing the prohibition of parking on city streets between 2:00 AM and 6:00 AM without prior permission from the police. The speaker also praised the fire department for their dedication, noting they had responded to 13 medical calls within a single week. This appreciation was echoed by another participant who inquired about the reporting of community responses, seeking clarification on whether data would be maintained separately for each community or reported collectively.

The meeting also featured updates from the city administrator, who announced the closure of city offices for holidays on December 23, 24, and 25, as well as January 1. The administrator expressed thanks for the council’s service, acknowledging the contributions made to the community over the years.