City Council approves dismantling EV station after infrastructure updates

During the recent East Grand Forks City Council meeting held on March 5, 2025, several key issues regarding the city's water and electric services were discussed, highlighting ongoing challenges and operational updates.

One of the primary topics was the recent power outage that occurred on February 20, which affected Central Circuit 3. City staff reported that despite efforts to identify the cause of the outage, including re-energizing sections of the circuit, the fault remained undetermined. This incident marked the second trip of the same circuit since 2022, raising concerns about the reliability of the electrical infrastructure. City officials emphasized the importance of monitoring this circuit closely to prevent future outages.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the aftermath of severe weather, which resulted in a downed utility pole on Fifteenth Avenue. Crews promptly removed the fallen pole and are in the process of replacing it, ensuring that service disruptions are minimized. The city also reported a case of frozen water lines, which was resolved by the homeowner with assistance from city staff.

In terms of infrastructure improvements, the council discussed the installation of new lighting options. A trial of different bulb styles with adjustable color settings is planned for the area in front of the city hall, aiming to enhance visibility and aesthetics. Furthermore, the dismantling of an electric vehicle charging station was approved, indicating a shift in the city’s approach to electric infrastructure.

The meeting also touched on ongoing maintenance efforts, including tree trimming around street lights and the management of water leaks from private hydrants. City staff are actively addressing these issues, although some water meter installations have slowed due to cancellations from residents.

Overall, the discussions at the East Grand Forks City Council meeting reflect a proactive approach to managing the city’s utilities, with a focus on reliability and community engagement. As the city continues to address these operational challenges, residents can expect ongoing updates and improvements to their water and electric services.