The state demographer has determined that in 2005, the population of North Branch was at 10,205, by estimate, and likewise, that there are 3,600 households.

The council approved placement of a driveway exiting a new business building being built on the old Lampertís site in the center of the split lot. Residents nearby on Maple and Branch Avenue were concerned about traffic coming out on Maple Street. Not included in the motion, but agreed upon by the council was direction to the city engineer to come back with a plan to ensure the safety of the citizens in the area. NGK is the developer of the west half of this site.

The council unanimously agreed to call a public hearing for a tax abatement for North Branch Marketplace, not to exceed $300,000. The hearing will be held Aug. 28.

The council, after much discussion, set the compensation for members of the Water and Light Commission the same as the council at $45 per meeting.

The 2006 road gravel contract was awarded to Rydberg & Sons at $9.17/cubic yard and the 2006 sealcoat project was awarded to Allied Blacktop Company at $56,700.

The council received the feasibility study for the Flink Avenue/400th Street utility and street improvement proposed project. By doing so, the city can use it to apply for a grant to help with the project.

The NB council agreed to allow Kids Vote booths at voting precincts during the November elections. The program helps young people understand the election process and has been successfully conducted at past elections.

There was discussion about a community center task force. The city will be seeking members and may include two park board members, plus some of those who have previously been on a similar task force.

The council meetings are videotaped and currently aired on cable TV at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and noon on Thursdays. The council discussed going live with the broadcast. A motion was made to move toward going live and to check into equipment that will allow taped meetings to be aired at a more convenient time for the citizens.