City department heads gave a series of operational updates at the March 3 council meeting, highlighting fire-department equipment, library leadership changes, playground improvements and fall community events.

Fire Department: Officials said three fire engines are in the city and are being prepped for service. The department expects the ladder truck to complete final inspection in Wisconsin and to be released by mid-month, with delivery to the city by the end of the month.

Library: Council members said they met with the new library director and the system director; two staff members named in the discussion were Aaron (assistant director/circulation) and Toby (director). The council recorded that both staff are working toward librarian certification and that the library’s administrative office has relocated to City Hall.

Playgrounds and accessibility: Council members reported installation of sensory communication boards (for children with autism or other communication needs) at Joplin and Second Avenue and at The Rock, funded at low unit cost and receiving positive public feedback. Council members noted there are multiple small neighborhood playgrounds across the city where similar boards could be installed.

Community events: The council listed several upcoming events — a county cleanup at Fourth Avenue and C Street from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., open interviews at the Farmer’s Market (10 a.m.–1 p.m.), an autumn festival (Oct. 11, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.), and a trunk-or-treat at the Farmer’s Market on Oct. 7 (5:30–7 p.m.). Officials said event details appear on the city app and website.

These updates were presented as informational reports; no formal council action, new funding appropriations or policy changes for these items were recorded in the meeting minutes.