City Council Study Session 09/22/2026

The City Council of Brookings held a study session on September 22, 2026, focusing extensively on budget presentations, capital improvement plans, and public safety technology. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of a 10-year capital improvement plan with a $15.7 million budget emphasizing major projects such as street improvements on 22nd Avenue, fire department equipment upgrades including a $2.5 million platform truck, police vehicle replacements, and park enhancements supported by grant applications. The council also reviewed and approved budget amendments related to transitioning management of the Dakota Bank Center from a private operator to city staff, including $235,000 in one-time transition costs funded by hotel and 3B tax reserves. A resolution was passed to initiate a construction manager at risk procurement process for the Dakota Bank Center renovation, with an estimated $10 million investment planned, partially offset by private funding. Additionally, the council approved a transportation alternatives grant application for a $900,000 pedestrian and bicycle connectivity project, with the city committing a 20% local match. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to a detailed presentation and public discussion on the procurement, use, and policy oversight of license plate reader technology leased from Flock Group, including data security, access controls, and community concerns. The council engaged in dialogue about transparency and policy enforcement related to this technology but took no immediate procurement action on it. Overall, the meeting involved multiple contract authorizations, budget allocations, and capital project planning with a focus on balancing fiscal responsibility and community needs.