The public safety aid funds dominated the discussion as a representative from the Township Board addressed the City Council, raising concerns about the lack of decision-making regarding the allocation of these funds. The representative pointed out that the state of Minnesota had allocated $58,000 specifically for emergency service personnel and equipment costs. The council was criticized for not yet deciding how to use this funding, which was intended for emergency responders rather than general city funds. A discrepancy between the township and city emerged over the distribution of these funds, with the township representative underscoring that the money was meant for Zumbrota residents, despite their contributions through property taxes to the emergency services.

One council member acknowledged awareness of the funding and the absence of a timeline to spend it, complicating the decision-making process. The discussion unveiled a philosophical debate among council members regarding whether to distribute the funds evenly among fire, police, and ambulance services or allocate them based on budgetary needs. The complexities of joint powers agreements were also mentioned, highlighting the intricate financial relationship between the city and surrounding townships.

The township representative reiterated the urgency of spending the funds for their intended purpose, particularly given the ongoing need for equipment and resources in emergency services. The council committed to further discussions to address these issues, recognizing the need to allocate the funds to meet equipment needs and standards for emergency services.

Following the public safety aid discussion, the council focused on the Fifth Street West Avenue crosswalk study, where a staff member provided an update on the ongoing evaluation of various options. The need to compile pricing for several alternatives had delayed progress, with options including painting, adding signage, implementing bump-outs, and installing a rapid flashing beacon. A resident concerned about the intersection had been kept informed and expressed satisfaction with the progress.

In new business, the council received updates from a representative of the Southeast Minnesota Multi-County Housing (SEMRA) regarding the Deeds Small Cities Development Program. The comprehensive environmental review was completed, and public comments were being gathered. The council was briefed on the policies, procedures, and plans essential for administering the grant, with SEMRA handling most administrative tasks.

The council also approved the hiring of Miles Rob as the new Deputy City Administrator, following a unanimous 5-0 vote. Rob’s appointment followed a second interview process, and he is expected to start on March 5th. The council welcomed Rob, who has local ties and has already secured housing in the area.

Additionally, the council passed Resolution 20257, recognizing donations for the Schroeder Memorial. The resolution aimed to aggregate donations received, totaling just under $31,000, with expectations of reaching $43,000 due to recent contributions. The council emphasized the need for transparency in acknowledging each donation while managing the administrative workload, passing the motion unanimously.

The meeting also addressed the approval of a new cannabinoid license for Tuby Boutique, allowing the sale of low-potency THC beverages and gummies. Despite a brief discussion on the absence of limits on the number of businesses allowed to sell such products, the motion to approve the license passed unanimously.

The council reviewed the renewal of Resolution 20252 for the golf course premises gambling permit, necessitated by personnel changes at the golf course. The renewal process was expedited to meet a deadline in early March, and the motion to approve it was passed unanimously.

In infrastructure updates, the Sanitary District’s ongoing discussions with legislative bonding committee members were highlighted, with hopes for a forthcoming bonding bill to facilitate necessary funding. The pool committee reported a fundraising total of over $533,000, noting that the overall goal remained higher at around $1 million. The committee was engaging local businesses for potential in-kind contributions, but progress had been hindered by the need for finalized designs before bids could be sent out. The council recognized the committee’s efforts and discussed the importance of continued fundraising while promoting the project to the community.

The meeting also addressed the Bridge View Apartments development, with a TIF developers agreement submitted and preliminary site plans reviewed. Concerns were raised about the potential loss of city parking, leading to proposals for creating additional angled parking spots. The Transportation Alternative Grant concerning the Trestle project was also discussed, with a funding request of $1.4 million presented to the TA Grant committee. The outcome remains uncertain, but positive feedback was received, and further council discussions will determine next steps depending on the grant’s outcome.