The proposed airport levy became a central point of contention, with council members expressing varied opinions on the necessity and fairness of the levy. While some council members supported the $125,000 levy, citing the need to meet the airport’s financial obligations, others argued for a more modest approach. One member pointed out that a previous attempt to secure a higher levy amount had already failed, and expressed discomfort with the idea of burdening Brainerd taxpayers further.

Ultimately, the motion to approve the $125,000 levy failed. An amended proposal saw a reduction in the capital levy for parks by $100,000 and a $10,000 cut from the 2025 capital street tree budget, both of which passed with majority support.

Following the levy discussion, the council addressed broader budgetary considerations. Updated budget numbers were presented, including a proposed reduction of the capital levy by $100,000 and an increase of the airport levy to $125,000, which was later rejected. The proposed levy was set at 4.75% for an upcoming public meeting. The council discussed the need for a special meeting to finalize the levy amount by December 31st, highlighting the urgency of these financial decisions.

In other significant business, the council approved the sale of general obligation bonds for 2024. A representative from Baker Tilly provided the results of the bond sale, noting the city’s favorable interest rate, attributed to healthy fund balances and conservative management. This move will finance a major reconstruction project.

The meeting also saw discussions on the sanitary sewer force main lining project, with staff recommending its programming into the 2027 construction year. This timing would accommodate planning needs and account for future costs. The council agreed to hold the decision until additional information could be gathered.

Code enforcement was another area of focus, particularly regarding a property on Avenue Northeast. The property had been cited for peeling paint, with the owner granted an extension to address the issue.

The meeting also highlighted community engagement through upcoming events. The council approved an event application for a holiday tree lighting and hay rides scheduled for November 30th. This event, organized by Brainerd Community Action, will feature activities as part of Small Business Saturday. The logistics and safety of the event were discussed, including approval from the Fire Marshal and managing cleanliness during the hay rides.

In terms of city operations, the council ratified several hiring motions, including a police intern and an apprentice line worker. They also addressed a memorandum of agreement with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 31, setting wages for an administrative assistant position. Additionally, the council decided to remain with the current civil attorney firm, RRM, while negotiating terms amidst ongoing arbitration with one of the unions.