Natalie A. Carroll

Key discussions included an update from the City Clerk regarding bid specifications for the tower reconstruction project. The council unanimously approved a motion for the Dexter Community Club to hold charitable bingo on March 14, 2026. Furthermore, the council unanimously passed Resolution #05-26 to adopt the 2025 Mower County Hazard Mitigation Plan, making the city eligible to apply for FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance grants. The council also discussed a request from a resident regarding the use of the community building and a fire bay for a retirement party, with direction given to inquire further with the fire department.

The regular City Council meeting included extensive discussion regarding water infrastructure priorities, comparing the costs and feasibility of reconditioning the existing water tower (estimated at $675,000) versus upsizing water mains utilizing a smaller tower (estimated at $1.5 million). The Council voted to proceed with the reconditioning of the old water tower. Key administrative actions included the unanimous adoption of resolutions to appoint the 2026 City Officials (designating Auditor, Attorney, Fire Chiefs, and other roles), to designate United Farmers State Bank as the Financial Institution, to adopt the 2026 Fee Schedule, and to approve election judges for the 2026 elections. Legal matters discussed involved the city's ownership of the Dexter Cemetery, with a council member volunteering to research records to pursue obtaining a quit claim deed from the Methodist Church. The Council approved closing the 2020 Water Revenue Bond, transferring the balance to the Water Fund, and discussed the first responder payment structure, ultimately approving an increase in payment per call to $30.00 contingent on receiving a donation from the township. Finally, shut-off notices were directed for several delinquent water bill accounts.

The regular meeting addressed several municipal items. The Council approved a building permit for an accessory building installation at 239 Pleasant Street, clarifying zoning restrictions regarding accessory buildings on lots without primary dwellings. A legal description was approved to add 0.26 acres to a property line, splitting the original parcel owned by Molly Garrison. Approval was also granted for a proposed parcel split of property at 249 Pleasant Street to allow for a future pre-fabricated home. Regarding infrastructure, the Council discussed the city's eligibility for low-interest funding from the Drinking Water Revolving Funds for water system improvements, agreeing to defer a commitment on hiring ISG for design specs until the January meeting. Furthermore, the Council voted to cover 100% of the cost for the new Paid Leave Program and authorized a $6,000.00 contribution to the Dexter Fire Relief Association for the volunteer fire department's retirement program.

The council approved hiring KLM Engineering for consulting services on the water tower reconditioning. A 15% increase in water and sewer rates was approved, effective January 1, 2026. The council authorized the city not to waive the monetary limits on municipal tort liability and discussed maintenance needs. The clerk was authorized to purchase a cell phone for city use.

The council addressed a request from Justin and Lisa Bushaw regarding the purchase and combination of lots in Southside Addition, including the possibility of adding to their existing structure. Concerns were raised about water drainage and adherence to the Southside Addition covenant. The council approved a building permit for Twisted Scissors to add a cement patio. Additionally, the council approved a gambling application for the Dexter Community Club. Delinquent water bills were reviewed, and shut-off notices were approved for specific accounts.