While much was discussed and several resolutions passed, the biggest news came from Goodwin.
"The school has been contacted by our insurance company," he told the council. "They're very convinced it's a trip/fall hazard. And there is only one handicap strip; we have three ramps. I realize this is a significant potential cost to the city, as well as the school district."
"I've looked at it," said councilman Tony Martens. "It's a major, major issue. The curb is in tough shape."
Funding options and even putting the project off for a year were discussed, but Martens was adamant about taking care of it as soon as possible.
"If you're going to move forward with this for next year, we'd need to know by the next meeting so a feasibility study can be done," said Billing. "You can put it off a year, but the cost isn't going down."
"This is significant," said Goodwin. "And needs to be done.”
Martens suggested the city could ask the county to wait a year on the other pending street project in town.
It was decided Goodwin and school board members would attend an upcoming city council meeting soon to hammer out details.
The next big issue was the ambulance department situation.
Much discussion has been devoted to whether to contract with an outside agency for billing and other paperwork at a cost of about $5,000 a year.
Martens had another idea.
He suggested having Assistant City Clerk Corrine Schuller receive certified training and ongoing schooling.
"I've talked to Corrine, she's willing to do this," said Martens. "We could save $4000 per year."
By doing this, raising rates and using proper software, Martens said the city could save enough to pay for an ambulance director position.
Motions were made and passed to purchase billing software and set up training for Schuller.
No decision was made on an ambulance director position.
Police Chief Scott Eads gave his report. There were 108 calls for service and 39 additional contacts in September. One felonious assault occurred at the high school and a suspect was immediately taken into custody.
Eads reported recent events at the high school have earned Goodwin and Principal David Bunn his respect.
"I'm grateful for their presence and believe they are both great assets to the school specifically and the community in general," said Eads.
Cody Dobberstein delivered the city maintenance report. The council approved a number of expenditures, but a decision on the one Dobberstein was hoping for - a new snowplow - was tabled until next meeting.
The council approved the hiring of Dylan Arnold for the position of recycling attendant.
The council discussed at length the hiring of a person to clean the new library at a cost of $40 per week for three hours per week. The Goehrings expressed the opinion that since the building is new and nice, it ought to be kept that way. The council disagreed, at least at this time. No action was taken.
Lastly, the council closed the meeting to the public to discuss the future of the old library building. After reconvening, it was announced a second offer to purchase the building has been made, and that Billing would be in contact with the prospective buyer to discuss it.
The council will next meet Tuesday, Nov. 12 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.
