Department heads report: storm drains, water-main work, digester cover and equipment repairs underway

City department heads provided a series of operational updates at the July 22 meeting. Public works reported two storm-drain repairs (Eagle parking lot and Parkway) and said a Jeffrey Drive water-main replacement will begin next week. The contractor for the storage-tank project finished work; staff continue belt-press operations to reduce solids and are awaiting several parts to finish remaining repairs. A site meeting with Xylem and Graywolf about installing a digester cover is scheduled for 1 p.m. the following day. The fire chief (Tom) reported persistent problems with a four-year-old breathing-air compressor that is frequently breaking and costing about $500 per service call; staff said they will evaluate replacement options. He also said the city’s new fire engine may arrive as early as March, about six months sooner than originally expected, and flagged upcoming repairs to a ladder unit that will require dealer service. Streets and parks staff described remaining striping and downtown parking-stall work, concrete pours near Eagle Park, 50/50 sidewalk projects, alley trimming and preparations before school starts. Parks staff said the Eagle Park sign and fiber/camera installations at the park are nearly complete and that public Wi‑Fi may be operational soon. Electric staff reported completing underground distribution work on East and Ohio Street rear easements and participating in lineman training initiatives with IMEA. Police staff said Officer Sturgis is at the academy and that the department is accepting applications for patrol officer through Aug. 1 at 4 p.m. City management said it is working with police leadership on minor policy changes including flex time and comp time and preparing to recruit for a GIS position. No formal board votes were required for these reports; staff requested follow-up as needed on parts procurement, contractor schedules and policy work.