Willmar City Council Meeting 8/17/26

The City of Willmar held a council meeting on August 17, 2026, which included several procurement and budget-related discussions. The council approved a separation and release agreement for the city administrator with a lump sum payment of approximately $13,733.33. A public hearing was conducted regarding the 2027 Fourth Street Improvement Project, covering street reconstruction and utility replacements, with a total assessment amount of $766,666.50 to be paid over 15 years. The council adopted the assessment roll and addressed community concerns about project timelines and costs. The meeting also featured an extensive discussion on the use of Flock Safety license plate reader cameras, including contract terms, privacy concerns, and potential policy reviews. Additionally, the council approved a master services agreement with Cost Systems Incorporated for software to manage Wilmar Connect network operations, with an annual cost around $66,000, and accepted a donation of skilled labor valued at $6,800 from MoorComm for network operations center preparation. The council awarded a $153,930 contract to Redstone Construction for the 71 Bridge Preservation Project, funded by state aid with no direct city budget impact. Finally, the council approved submitting a grant application for up to $150,000 to address Emerald Ash Borer impacts on city trees, supporting proactive community forest management.