The meeting’s centerpiece was the public hearing on the 2023 Utility and Street Improvement Project. Civil Engineer Brian Petzel provided an overview, detailing the full reconstruction of Second Street from Brown Street to Henin Street, the creation of a utility corridor to connect to a county ditch, and the installation of a new sanitary sewer interceptor pipe. The project also encompassed improvements to the alley next to the post office and enhancements to the city parking lot. The improvements aimed not only to upgrade existing infrastructure but also to accommodate future expansion needs.

Sanitary sewer enhancements were a componet, with a new trunk main installed with pipes ranging from 15 to 18 inches. This installation, reaching depths of up to 35 feet, was necessary to address constructibility issues and future growth. Stormwater management improvements involved a new trunk main designed to handle a 10-year storm event, enhancing the previous system’s capacity. Street improvements included new curbing, gutters, sidewalks, and downtown streetscape enhancements, such as curb bump-outs for pedestrian safety.

The project’s total cost was projected at approximately $8.75 million, primarily funded through bonds, property taxes, utility funds, and special assessments. Notably, the costs were trending under budget by about 7.7%. Special assessments were calculated based on 25% of the total street project costs, excluding utility expenses and streetscaping items. The hearing allowed residents to voice concerns about the proposed assessments and the project’s overall impact.

Utility rate adjustments were another significant topic. A proposed increase in electric rates for commercial customers was discussed. This adjustment aimed to balance the demand on the city’s electric system, where commercial users place more strain than residential customers. The water rates were also slated for an increase, with a proposed new water base fee of $15 and a sewer base fee of $15.39. Stormwater fees, currently $810, were proposed to increase to $18.53 to better cover bond obligations. The council emphasized the importance of these adjustments in maintaining infrastructure and covering costs.

In conjunction with infrastructure improvements, the council deliberated on the splash pad project. Three bids were received, with CRS providing the lowest acceptable bid at $459,342.10, which included a water recycling system. The council stressed the urgency of moving forward to avoid cost escalations due to market conditions. Funding for the splash pad would come from capital expenditure funds, with plans for a repayment plan of $125,000 a year over five years. The council considered tree removal necessary for the splash pad’s installation, with intentions to explore options for relocating affected trees.

The council also addressed the cost of ambulance services, proposing an increase from $800 to $1,000 per call to offset financial losses, given that reimbursements from Medicare and Medicaid are lower than the incurred costs.

Additionally, the meeting covered a grant application for ADA accessibility improvements, including the development of 88 bathrooms and enhanced pathways. The council unanimously accepted a bid related to these developments.

The resignation of Cheryl Melheim from the Library Board was also addressed. Her departure due to work commitments marked the end of her tenure as the first chair, with the council expressing appreciation for her leadership. Discussions on the wastewater plant project, referred to as “streams,” underscored the financial challenges in setting feasible rates for services that would serve multiple communities. The council recognized the importance of collaboration and community involvement to ensure the project’s viability.

Economic development was noted with the allocation of approximately $60,000 in small business loans and a $65,000 facade grant to improve downtown areas. The Library Board was reported to be monitoring budget expenditures closely, with plans for community events and updates to the non-fiction collection supported by a TDS grant.