City seeks new camera bids and weighs park repairs

Council members discussed two different camera-system proposals for park surveillance and agreed the AVS and Verkada quotes represented different technologies and were difficult to compare directly.

Mayor Ben Holien said he wants staff to solicit additional bids before making a decision, and council members said they were displeased with AVS's lack of communication and planned to pass on that quote for now. The council also raised multiple maintenance needs: the east shelter's roof underside and fascia are in poor condition, the west shelter has damaged shingles and fascia, and the chicken pit roof may need replacement. City Superintendent Stan Meier said he is pricing new picnic tables for the ballpark and Foelsch shelter and is repairing a swing. Council members discussed whether to replace boards or repair existing benches and to consider concrete and electrical work for shelters as part of the 2024 budget planning.

The council also discussed power and lighting options in the parks, including switches to allow lights to be turned off and the possibility of lighting in or near restrooms; decisions on these items will be considered during the budget process.