Sheila Bjornstad

The council discussed residential water damage and potential insurance endorsements, received updates on the 4th Ave Water Main Replacement and Lead Service Line Replacement projects, and accepted a bid for the cemetery mowing contract. Additionally, the council approved street maintenance plans, authorized a water rate increase, provided sponsorship for a local event, and approved repairs for the local skating rink and fire hall equipment. Public works reports were provided, including updates on snow and ice removal, and financial bills were approved for payment.

The council reviewed and approved several items related to the Sewer Project, including change orders, payments, and loan requests. Discussions were held regarding the 4th Ave Water Main Replacement and the Lead Line Replacement Project, with updates on inventory and construction timelines. The council also processed the resignation of a councilor, approved a gaming permit for a raffle, established minimum bid and demolition requirements for tax-forfeited properties, and reviewed the 2021-2022 audit draft. Additionally, the meeting addressed public works reports on water tower repairs and snow removal, as well as coordination efforts regarding ticketing software compliance.

Key discussions included updates from Sheriff Hillard regarding snow removal ticketing and enforcement of city ordinances concerning abandoned vehicles and 72-hour parking. Brad Muscha from Moore Engineering provided updates on infrastructure projects, including the Sewer Project, noting punch list items and defective work, and the Lead Line Replacement Project, where sixteen lead service lines have been identified. The council approved Payment Application #5 to Post Construction for the Sewer Project and invoices for Moore Engineering related to various projects. A resolution for the DWSRF loan application was passed. Building permits were reviewed and approved. The Public Works/Maintenance committee reported on successful snow removal and planned attendance at certification courses. The council reviewed and approved the November financials and passed motions to pay the December bills.

The council discussed the upcoming purchases of bodycams and Tasers for the Sheriff's department. Updates were provided on the Sewer Project, the 4th Ave Water Main Replacement, and the Water Service Line Inventory & Lead Line Replacement Project. The council also discussed employee evaluations, building permits, and the city's health care plan. Appointments were made to the County Zoning Committee and the North Central Planning Board. Bids for a transfer switch were discussed and approved. Public Works reported on equipment readiness for winter and positive feedback on street cleanliness and stormwater maintenance. There was also a discussion on the fan ventilation replacement for the Fire Hall and parking regulations.

The council discussed city coverage by the Sheriff's department and appointed members to review the police contract. Updates were provided on the Sewer Project, the 4th Ave Water Main Replacement, and the Water Service Line Inventory & Lead Line Replacement Project, including approvals for invoices, grant requests, and payment applications related to these projects. The council also discussed increasing the Debt Retirement base rate to satisfy loan requirements. Other topics included the Sanitary Sewer Infrastructure for 2026 and the Second Ave project. The council approved the purchase of a new computer and support for the City Auditor, reviewed building permits, and discussed trees by the memorial building. Public Works/Maintenance discussed transitioning to winter equipment and replacing a tire on the sander. The September financials were reviewed and approved, and the bills were approved for payment.