The council’s approval of the assessment roll for the 2025 street improvement project in the Hawk Meadows neighborhood was a key agenda item. The project, involving streets like 256th Grail Court and Grizzly Court, had been necessary due to significant potholes and drainage issues. Mr. Ericson outlined the project’s costs, totaling $533,350, with 80% covered by the city and the rest assessed to property owners. This approach followed the state’s statute chapter 429, allowing the city to manage public improvements efficiently. Residents were to be charged $1,635 per unit, with the option to prepay within 30 days of the hearing. The council opened the floor to public comments, during which Bob Rosenbomb of Grizzly Court expressed appreciation for the improvements, particularly highlighting the enhanced road conditions. He sought clarification on prepayment procedures, which Mr. Ericson explained, noting that notifications would be sent to property owners for payment processing.

Following the public hearing, the council swiftly moved to approve resolution 25102, adopting the assessment roll. The motion passed with unanimous support. The discussion then shifted to the consent agenda, which included routine approvals and recognitions, and was passed without additional debate.

The council also addressed the proposed conditional use permits for a pet resort and a cannabis retailer on Lake Boulevard. A discussion revealed that the location could not accommodate both businesses, necessitating a choice between them. Concerns from neighboring residents about screening vegetation and noise were addressed with assurances of regulatory compliance. Questions arose regarding the fate of the unused permit and application fee refunds, with officials clarifying that no refunds would be given, and a revocation process would be necessary. The cannabis retailer’s permit required special attention due to the new ordinance allowing cannabis in commercial zones. Concerns about odor control were mitigated by the fact that the cannabis products would be prepackaged, thereby minimizing potential odor issues. Additionally, compliance with state inspections was confirmed.

In another significant topic, the council reviewed the results of radiochemical monitoring, focusing on water quality testing conducted multiple times a year. Concerns were raised about fluctuations in test results, particularly the doubling of gross alpha levels. Environmental factors like drought or wet conditions were discussed as possible influences on groundwater quality, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring to ensure safe water standards.

The council then considered a resolution to select a consulting firm for a stormwater utility rate study for 2026 to 2030. The firm Ericson Northstar was recommended as the low responsible bidder, expected to provide cost-efficient solutions due to its previous experience and alignment with the city engineer’s goals. Questions about the firm’s competency were addressed.