James Berry

The City Council meeting agenda was approved with the addition of a discussion item regarding CD at the bank. Key discussions included updates on the city car being in the shop again, potential implementation of vehicle tags for long-unmoved cars, the city's compliance status with DNR following assistance from MWRA staff on sewer project paperwork, and snow removal/meter changing activities. Council reported on finding potential replacement trucks and obtaining a quote for salt purchase, authorizing local purchase if prices are comparable, and the purchase of pallet forks. The Fire & Rescue department received two grants for purchasing a Skid unit with Foam, and Downing will receive a grant for new gear. The Mayor signed paperwork to initiate the Demo Grant funds. It was noted that the 2023 audit was postponed and will be rescheduled. For Health Insurance, the City Clerk was directed to survey surrounding counties/cities for providers or plans used.

The council addressed the incorrect establishment year on the new city sign, discussed water meters and sewer hookups for mobile homes, and reviewed police and water & sewer reports. They also discussed the DEMO and TAPP grants, adopted a manufactured home ordinance, and approved securing a dumpster for debris removal from the old ambulance building demolition.

The meeting addressed a request for water meter installation, inquiries about meeting minutes on the website and their posting on Facebook. The council entered closed sessions to discuss unspecified matters, and department reports covered issues such as metal shavings in patrol vehicle valves, a bird found in an overflow pipe resulting in a boil advisory, fire hydrant flushing, and work on DNR Sewer and TAPP Grants, along with a new billing program. Old and new business included updates on the TAPP Grant, a review of shredding services, discussion of an All State Contract, presentation of bank loan information, and review of a petty cash policy. Zoning and ordinance reviews were also initiated.

The council meeting addressed a range of topics including a public comment regarding a water meter bill, police updates on car repairs, dog bites, and ticketing for violations. Discussions involved flushing hydrants, installing Christmas lights, street maintenance, and pump repairs. The council considered conservation efforts for fish, park winterization, and acknowledged thanks from the Old Settler's committee. The council also discussed a sidewalk grant bid, audit plans, fire station loan, election dates, a Christmas contest, health insurance for the City Clerk, a potential city vehicle purchase, and a garage door issue.

The council meeting included approving the agenda with an addition regarding CD at the bank. Departmental reports covered police computer replacement needs, updates on lift station functionality and water samples, and meter lid leveling projects. The City Clerk provided updates on the 2023 audit completion and received approval to attend the MOCCFOA conference in March 2026, necessitating a move of the March council meeting date. Discussions also included the installation of new pumps, exterior signage funded by DSF, and positive reports from the Fire Department regarding a Christmas morning response. New business involved approving the Mayor to request payment on Demo Grant papers, discussing possibilities for July 4th daytime activities like tournaments or cookouts, and assigning the task of obtaining information on health insurance from Farm Bureau.