At the forefront of the meeting was the approval of a new funding model for Highland Transit, presented by co-directors Tracy Borshots and Diane Ford. With a unanimous vote, the council agreed to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that restructures financial contributions from communities, addressing the significant increase in bus costs post-COVID. Borshots explained that the price of new buses had soared from approximately $90,000 to $215,000, necessitating a revised funding strategy. The new model requires communities to contribute a set amount of $6,000, reviewed every five years, providing financial predictability and alleviating the burden on individual communities.

Borshots detailed the services offered by Highland Transit, including a deviated route service and a demand response service, highlighting efforts to rebuild ridership following a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic. The fare structure includes a $2.50 charge per demand response trip and unlimited monthly passes for students and other riders. Upcoming technology upgrades, such as updated bus cameras and a passenger portal for online bookings, aim to enhance service efficiency. Plans for 2025 include a rider educator to increase ridership and dispel misconceptions about transit eligibility, as well as initiatives to connect Zumbrota residents with larger communities for various needs.

Infrastructure improvements were another topic, with the council approving plans and specifications for street work. A decision was made to receive bids for these improvements until June 12. The project includes a sub-drain to improve soil drainage, although concerns regarding the potential impact on an ice skating rink were raised. The council assured that the rink would remain unaffected, pending further review of connected services.

The meeting also addressed a rezoning application for Adam and Jennifer McKini’s property on Jefferson Drive, proposing a change from Industrial 2 to Residential 2. After deliberations, the council approved the resolution, allowing the rezoning to proceed without returning to the planning commission. The decision facilitates the McKinis’ plans despite initial discussions about the suitability of Residential 1 zoning.

In contrast, a variance request for a property on GW Avenue, related to a planned screened-in porch encroaching on the rear yard setback, was denied. The council upheld the planning commission’s decision, citing the self-imposed nature of the applicant’s difficulties and the lack of unique lot characteristics. The denial was consistent with the council’s established criteria for variance requests, emphasizing that the proposed encroachment did not meet the necessary conditions.

Additionally, the council scheduled a work session for June 12, addressing conflicts with other dates and accommodating members’ personal commitments. Updates on ongoing projects included a new apartment building awaiting a TIF agreement, pool design plans pending soil reports, and police department facility improvements. Fundraising efforts for the pool have reached $560,000, with an aim to secure a total of $1.1 million. The council also confirmed the pending sale of a police vehicle and acknowledged the clerk’s participation in a professional institute.