The St. Joseph City Council convened on May 6, 2024, to address several key issues affecting the community, including the operation of the local community center, financial agreements, and updates on various city projects.

The meeting began with discussions surrounding the management of the community center. Council members expressed concerns about the feasibility of the city running the facility, particularly in light of staffing challenges faced by neighboring Sartell. It was noted that the Sartell Community Center has limited operating hours, which raises questions about the viability of a city-run model. Instead, there was a consensus that collaboration with the YMCA would be a more effective approach. One council member emphasized the importance of community involvement in the project, expressing gratitude for the council's support in revitalizing the initiative.

Financial matters were also a focal point of the meeting. The council discussed the status of invoices related to the community center's operations, noting that no payments had been made since a contract revamp. There was uncertainty regarding the final financial agreement, with council members seeking clarity on the expected costs moving forward. The chief operating officer was tasked with providing an update on this matter.

In addition to community center discussions, the council received reports from various departments. The chief of police highlighted ongoing issues with USPS delivery, particularly concerning utility bills, which have caused confusion among residents. The council was informed about recent legislative efforts, including a testimony before the House Capital Campaign Committee regarding funding for local projects. However, optimism was tempered by the realization that securing financial support may be challenging as the legislative session nears its end.

The meeting also included updates on community events and projects, such as the upcoming movie night at Millstream and the development of new playground equipment. The council discussed the construction of pickleball courts, confirming that three courts would be built at one facility, with additional courts planned for another location.

As the meeting concluded, the council members reflected on the importance of community engagement and collaboration in addressing the needs of St. Joseph. The next steps include further discussions on the community center's management and continued efforts to secure funding for local initiatives.