The meeting was highlighted by a presentation from Mr. J Pale, a senior director at WSB, and Eric Lmy, principal at Stantec Engineering, who awarded the Highway 41 Downtown Improvement Project as the APWA’s Project of the Year in the transportation category. The project was recognized for its innovative construction techniques, preservation efforts, and coordination with Native American tribes. With a $23 million budget, the project transformed the highway from four lanes to three while focusing on pedestrian safety and accessibility. Despite challenges like historic preservation and flooding, the project’s successful completion underscored the collaborative efforts of city leaders and project partners. Council members expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting the project’s positive community impact and additional accolades from the Civil Engineering Association of Minnesota.

Following this recognition, the council addressed the expansion plans for Beckman Coulter on Lake Hazeltine Drive. The proposed concept plan, presented by a Planning Commission representative, involves a two-story addition to an existing building, creating approximately 300 new jobs within the industrial park. The expansion would cover 148,000 square feet and increase parking capacity, though further approvals for wetland impacts are necessary. Council members expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential economic benefits. Beckman Coulter’s senior site operations leader noted the rarity of expanding manufacturing jobs in the United States.

The council then turned to the adoption of the 2025 tax levy and general enterprise fund budgets. A city official detailed the preparation since August, leading to the proposed tax levy of roughly $21 million, covering about 20% of the total revenue required for city operations. This meeting followed a public hearing addressing property owner concerns about tax impacts. The budget discussion focused on the city’s growth, now housing around 30,000 residents, and emphasized the importance of financial planning for city operations. The tax levy policy allows for increases based on inflation and new growth, contributing to an overall 8.76% increase. The council’s conservative budgeting approach anticipates approximately $1.3 million for the coming year, aligning with the current financial landscape.

The meeting also addressed major infrastructure projects and budgetary considerations for the upcoming year. A significant sewer project is planned for next summer, involving realignment and relining of manholes in the East Creek Ravine, estimated at $500,000. The proposed fiberglass-type relining system is expected to provide a long-term solution to material deterioration. The city is investing more in stormwater management, with rates projected to rise by 4% to $22.77 per month, still below the average for similar municipalities. The council emphasized the necessity of shifting stormwater management from public works to a dedicated utility.

Utility rate adjustments were also discussed, with an anticipated 2.99% increase in monthly bills, equating to $5.83. The recreation funds review highlighted the community center’s deferred maintenance needs, estimated at $18 million. Although the council cannot fully address this now, improvements like updating water softeners and HVAC systems are planned. The community center reported over a million visitors last year, though membership remains 25% below pre-pandemic levels. A 3-4% increase in monthly membership fees is planned, keeping daily rates unchanged.

The meeting ended with a farewell to outgoing members, particularly Mayor Mark Windschitl, who served for 14 years. Reflecting on his tenure, members highlighted his dedication and leadership, noting his participation in 322 meetings and a background in public works and firefighting. Mark’s contributions were contrasted with historical figures in Chaska’s leadership, underscoring his impact on the community. Council members shared personal anecdotes and expressed gratitude for his mentorship.