City staff reported progress on several infrastructure projects and highlighted an economic-development ribbon cutting for an expanded Donaldson facility.

In the administration report, staff said the south service-area sanitary project has connected the former packing-plant site and nearby properties, and that the Highway 2 project is continuing. The James Street (Blueberry) storm drainage project is scheduled to start the week of July (property-owner notices to be mailed). Staff also said the South Commercial Street extension design is roughly 90% complete and the 2025 asphalt program and gutter program are progressing pending grant results.

Notable funding: Staff reported a federal funding agreement for Mechanic Street (from I-49 to east of South Commercial Street) for an amount not to exceed $4,200,000. "We received a federal funding agreement, for the funds to not exceed 4,200,000.0," staff said.

Donaldson expansion: City officials, including the mayor and staff, participated in a ribbon cutting at the Donaldson facility and toured the plant. Staff said Donaldson has 14,000 employees nationwide and that the local expansion will bring additional revenue and investment. The administrator encouraged aldermen and members of the public to arrange tours once the facility finishes work.

Other notes: Streets department hosted a citywide cleanup with about 402 volunteers; parks staff installed a shade structure for the dog park; the police department has openings and the city is recruiting.