Council orders replacement shop camera after members report alcohol, smoking and unsecured equipment

During "Old Business" Council member Deb Plahn reported that she and Council member Brian Sievert supervised an ex‑employee retrieving a personal tool bag from the City shop and documented six items of concern. Plahn said the items included a non‑city golf cart stored in the shop, cameras whose access is linked to a Public Works staff member's personal account, a nonworking treadmill stored in the shop, evidence of beer cans at the Fire Hall, an ashtray and cigarette residue in the shop area, and photographs showing cigarette ashes on the pay loader and children riding the loader (raised by community member Zach Kounkel).

Public Works Superintendent Brian Thode told council the golf cart was intended for manhole checks on suitable days and said he would follow up on equipment status. Regarding cameras at the shop, Thode said they were not wired into the City network and had been connected to a personal account under previous decisions; he said staff access would require installing a city‑owned system.

Council member Brian Sievert moved to purchase a replacement Intelli‑Pro camera for the City shop; the motion, seconded by Tim Houg, passed with recorded "all ayes." City administration asked council to clarify whether the existing cameras should be removed and indicated procurement would proceed through the city's normal process.

Council members also discussed potential follow‑up items, including confirming ownership and rules at the Fire Hall and consulting the fire marshal if necessary regarding unlocked doors and safety hazards in shop spaces. City administration and Public Works were asked to return with procurement details and any recommended safety actions.