CEYLON — Ceylon City Council members reported this week that mud on the streets will be a problem again on Community Day, which is Saturday.

There was a suggestion that skid loaders or other equipment be used to clean up the mud, especially on the south side of town by the former football field.

The council discussed having a discussion with the auctioneers about using 1 percent of their commission from sales to help pay for cleanup.

Fixing ruts in grass, especially by ball fields and the park, and mowing grass on the football field sooner also will be discussed. This meeting will be held after sale and will pertain to next year’s event.

The city reminds residents and visitors at Community Day to be mindful of barriers, fences and people’s private property.

Turning to other business, the council received a report from the city auditor, Greg Burkhardt.

He said there was a healthy increase in the city tax position in the short term and long term. He also said there was a healthy decrease in the city’s liabilities, and the reserve is in good shape.

He noted that expenditures and budgeted amounts were close.

Burkhardt said operating expenses for water and electricity were good, and sewer was satisfactory.

Also, he said the city’s debt load is good, and next year there may be no debt load.

He had few concerns, offering one suggestion for an increase in the pension plan paid by the city.

He also noted that donations to city must involve a resolution passed by 75 percent of the council.

Burkhardt said some instances of non-compliance with state rules may be due to the city moving to a new accounting system this year. The auditor, city clerk and council will work together during 2018 to resolve any instances of non-compliance.

In other business:

o Council members reported complaints about snowmobiles and ATVs maneuvering all over town, and not just from one destination to another. The city will look at enforcement of its ordinance regarding snowmobiles and ATVs.

o Discussion of Fire Association agreements led to a suggestion that the council have copies of the agreements, and check out pension fund agreement at the next meeting. The city owns the Fire Hall while the city of Ceylon and Tenhassen and Lake Belt townships comprise the board of directors for the group.

o City employees reported that ice formed inside the water tower and cracked a unit. They are investigating possible repairs and will file a claim with insurance.

o Ceylon City Hall will be closed for painting April 23-27.