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City manager reports airport reconstruction, staff changes, solar considerations and new online campsite reservations
Summary
City Manager updated the council on airport reconstruction (work started May 20, projected July 19 completion barring weather), the sustainability coordinator's resignation and grant funding for the position, solar feasibility discussions for municipal facilities, and the launch of online camping reservations.
At the May 28 meeting the City Manager presented routine operational updates including airport work, staffing changes and digital services.
Airport and engineering: The airport reconstruction and expansion work began May 20 and, barring weather delays, is expected to be completed by July 19. The manager said staff are working with TKDA (engineering) on a five‑year plan and expect forthcoming meetings with Minnesota Aeronautics and the FAA to discuss the plan.
Staffing and grants: The sustainability coordinator, Griffin, resigned with his last day the prior Friday to take a regional role; staff said the city had secured a $100,000 grant to extend the position and indicated the city will pursue additional funding (stated intent to apply for $200,000) to continue the role.
Solar feasibility: Griffin had been evaluating options for solar installations at the wastewater treatment plant and at the bus garage to offset expected electric loads from a new electric bus and charger. The manager summarized a cost‑payback scenario referenced in discussions as roughly a seven‑year payback for the wastewater project; staff said further study will continue when a new coordinator is hired.
Parks and reservations: The city’s online camping reservation system is now live, with website links and a QR code to book spots; staff reported demand is filling dates and that the change should reduce confusion compared with paper envelope reservations.
Other items: mill and overlay projects are complete; staff thanked a local vendor for repairs to park grills; a special public hearing was scheduled for the following week.
