Council discussed purchasing a new fire truck to replace the 1996 truck. The new truck will be delivered in 2023 and is expected to last another 30 years. Council opted to save money by paying for the truck upfront, after some discussion back and forth. 

Open Forum

Kathleen Poslusny of Powell St. noted that she and her husband opted to have their driveway repaved during the recent street project. However, the driveway was done in such a way that there is a significant drop-off from the yard to the driveway. She wanted to voice her concerns before the council and asked whether anything could be done about the situation, but did not expect an answer right at that time. 

Consent Agenda

In addition to the normal approval of previous minutes and other housekeeping items, there were a few items of note on the consent agenda at the recent city council meeting. 

Officer Rich Berg of the BLPD submitted his resignation. He will leave the department in February. 

Council called for a public hearing regarding the city’s fee schedule at the Dec. 8 regular meeting.

Council approved the purchase of new playground equipment at Powell Park. 

Council ordered a new police vehicle. 

Department Reports

City Engineer Layne Otteson reported that work is continuing on the 2021 street improvement projects, and some public hearings will be held for 2022 street projects. Otteson also reported that a survey at the boat launches indicated no signs of starry stonewort, though there was evidence of other invasive species.

Student Liaison Ella Dotzler updated the board on the enrollment numbers, which are trending upwards as students return or enroll in the online program. The special election saw Derek Nelson fill the vacant seat on the school board. Middle School and High School start times were changed to be 10 minutes later due to transportation issues. 

City Administrator Clay Wilfahrt stated that preliminary tax bills would be coming out to property owners soon.

In Other Business, the Council;

• Certified unpaid utility charges to residents’ property taxes;

• Heard an update about the farmers’ market and other summer events (the first winter market of the season is Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.).