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Nisswa officials warn one sewer pond needs full replacement; road-bond paving to finish this summer
Summary
Public works staff told residents at the June town hall that three road projects funded by the 2026 bond are nearly finished and that one of the city’s old sewer-pond liners has failed and will require full replacement. The city expects an engineer’s cost estimate at the next council meeting and is exploring low-interest PFA financing.
Public works director Tom Blamer told attendees at Nisswa’s June town hall that three streets funded by the 2026 road bond—Old Government Trail, Pulks Road and Hole in the Day—were about half complete and expected to receive a second lift of pavement by week’s end, with those projects finishing for the year.
Blamer said the 2027 road-bond list under consideration includes City Hall Street, Church Street and work on Lakers Lane, and staff are discussing complementary streetscaping such as light poles and banners. He also reported the city is considering a small roundabout near the school to improve safety and drainage, and that sidewalk opportunities are being evaluated along with pedestrian circulation and safety planning.
On the sewer system, Blamer said the city has four ponds in the treatment system, three of which share the original 35-year-old rubber liner. "The entire thing has aged out and has to be replaced," he said, describing the failure as more than a simple patch. Blamer said the city is in preliminary planning to estimate and scope a full liner-replacement project and expects the city’s engineer to present a formal estimate at the next council meeting.
When residents asked about funding and timing for additional pond work, Blamer said staff will evaluate all three original ponds together to minimize public impact and that the likely financing source is a low-interest loan through the PFA program. He did not provide a dollar estimate at the town hall.
Residents also pressed staff on communications during projects—requesting e-mail blasts or clearer marking explanations for right-of-way flags—and Blamer noted the city website offers an email-notification checkbox for project updates and reiterated residents can call for property-specific questions.
The council did not take formal action at the town hall; staff will return to the council with engineering estimates and a financing plan, and the city advised residents to watch the next council packet for cost details and scheduling.
