Council backs application for DCED funds to install self‑cleaning public restrooms downtown

City staff presented Resolution 2022-08 authorizing an application for DCED gambling‑proceeds funds to install prefabricated, self‑cleaning public restrooms in the East Main Street parking lot. The staff presentation described the units as two‑stall, unisex ADA‑compliant structures with self‑cleaning toilet seats and automated doors that can be remotely locked during off‑hours.

A staff speaker (identified in the presentation as the city planner) described site work needed for the units: "Small excavation with... sewer and water" connections, and said the units have an integrated lighting system and can be remotely monitored. Council members asked technical questions about site requirements and operation; staff said the restroom vendor conducts routine self‑cleaning cycles and units are remotely lockable at night.

Council moved and approved the resolution to apply for the gambling‑proceeds grant. Staff said the city will seek a project that stands out in the DCED program competition; staff indicated state reviewers believed few applicants would propose self‑cleaning restrooms in a central business district, which might help the application stand out.

If funded, the project will require coordination with utilities and a brief excavation for sewer and water hookups. The application is for grant consideration only; the council did not appropriate construction funds at the meeting.