The Clinton City Council approved a resolution authorizing a switching-services agreement between the City of Clinton and Burlington Short Line Railroad, Inc., d/b/a Burlington Junction Railway (BJRY).

AJ, representing BJRY, thanked the city for the opportunity and described the family-owned short-line operation's experience moving railcars. "We are a family owned business, started in 1985," AJ said. "We take what we do very seriously, and we really do appreciate the opportunity".

City staff said the agreement will help activate the city's rail park and enable local facilities to load and unload cars more efficiently. Matt (city staff) explained the financial arrangement: the team is "putting 10% aside that's just for maintenance" and "that 30% that comes to the city is for the rail park writ large overall," which staff said will help market and grow rail-park activity.

AJ and staff said the switch engine is awaiting Union Pacific sign-off after a contractor addressed a few items from UP's inspection; BJRY representatives expected the engine to arrive within two weeks after UP approves.

The council adopted the resolution by roll call. Staff said BJRY will coordinate daily movements with local businesses including Atlas Roofing and Super 8 Logistics.

Why it matters: The agreement aims to increase rail-park activity, help existing businesses move freight locally, and create a dedicated revenue stream for rail-park upkeep.

Next steps: Staff will coordinate the UP inspection sign-off, monitor the arrival of the engine and report back to council as operations begin.