Melbourne council approves gWorks invoice, asks for more info on library camera quote; sets budget schedule

City Clerk Pothast presented administrative items including the gWorks invoice for 2025, IT equipment requests and a security-camera proposal for the library.

Pothast said the city must move to a cloud-based gWorks system or find a replacement by December 2025. The invoice presented shows an increase from $5,209 to $7,500 for 2025; the higher amount would be locked for 2026 if the council accepts the cloud contract. Council member Lucas Hauser moved to approve the invoice; Beth Opperman seconded the motion and the vote was all ayes.

Public Works asked to take the older Kubota off-season for servicing; Council member Gary Fricke recommended Bobcat of Ames for service based on prior experience. Pothast also requested investigating a new hard drive for the City Hall master computer; the deputy clerk's drive had been replaced in 2022 from a state grant, while the master computer dates to December 2017.

The council considered a quote from ASTRA Security for two additional library cameras. After discussion, the council voted to pass on the proposal (motion carried 4-1) and asked ASTRA and library staff for additional options covering the library, park and recreation center.

Pothast presented a tentative budget schedule for January through April 2025; the first budget meeting was scheduled for Jan. 13 at 6:00 p.m., followed by the regular council meeting at 7:00 p.m. Council member Gary Fricke reported seeing legal notices related to the DeSaussure property and said that matter is proceeding. Fricke also said the 911 communications center is now sending different reports to first responders and the fire department; the mayor asked public works to check stakes on the right-of-way that might affect plowing.

The council adjourned at 8:19 p.m.