A significant portion of the meeting centered on the ongoing contract negotiations concerning ambulance and fire services with neighboring townships. The council has been grappling with this contract for nearly two years, facing discussions due to requests for changes in language and financial terms. Winthrop, as the second-largest volunteer service area in Minnesota, finds itself at a critical juncture, needing to navigate demographic shifts, such as an aging population and rural clinic closures, that are increasing demand for its services.

The financial burden of maintaining compliance with new OSHA regulations emerged as a issue. These guidelines require substantial upgrades to the fire department’s equipment and facilities, with estimated costs reaching upwards of $5.6 million. The regulations necessitate the installation of clean-in and clean-out stations due to the exposure of firefighters to carcinogenic materials, a requirement that current infrastructure cannot accommodate. Additionally, air packs, essential for firefighting operations, now have a reduced lifespan of three years, imposing further financial strain on the city.

The negotiations have spotlighted the financial disparity between Winthrop and the townships it serves. Currently, the city’s tax levy for these emergency services far exceeds the contributions from the townships, raising questions about the sustainability and fairness of the existing arrangement. The council discussed the possibility of adopting a financial model similar to Princeton, Minnesota, where townships pay a fixed annual fee to cover all emergency services costs, thereby eliminating prolonged negotiations and ensuring equitable cost-sharing.

Park enhancements also featured prominently in the meeting, with updates on infrastructure improvements and new installations. The council reviewed plans for a splash pad, with construction slated to begin in May and last approximately eight weeks. This new feature will span 2,300 square feet and is designed to offer various water play options for young children. Trails within the park are set for expansion, with paths widened from 3.5 to eight feet, along with installations of benches and lighting.

To address water pressure issues during events like the Farm City FunFest, the current water line will be upgraded to a six-inch main, accompanied by a stormwater management system to prevent water retention caused by clay soil. Efforts to preserve a large oak tree near the splash pad site resulted in plans to reroute the water line, though two maple trees will be lost due to the construction.

The council confirmed that these park improvements are budgeted, with funds drawn from reserves and repaid through the capital expenditure account. Liability coverage for the splash pad is included under the city’s existing insurance policy.

Beyond these topics, the council addressed an administrative policy aimed at streamlining accounts receivable processes. The new policy introduces a structured approach to handling delinquencies, allowing staff discretion in negotiating payment plans for those facing financial hardships. This aims to ensure consistency and prevent delays in collections.

The meeting also covered the upcoming implementation of the state-mandated paid Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which is projected to impact the city’s budget by $5,000 to $7,000 annually. The council discussed the timing and educational efforts required to inform city employees about the implications of this new policy.

Community engagement and ongoing projects were highlighted, with the council approving a $6,000 grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Art Council to support the Farm City FunFest. Preparations for potential weather events and spring projects, such as new light pole installations on Main Street, were also discussed.

The Planning Commission is revising city code related to building use and storage containers, while the status of the ambulance service was addressed, noting the need for a new vehicle by 2026. Concerns about storage space were raised, given the current building’s inadequacy.