One of the most noteworthy discussions revolved around the future of autonomous vehicle technology in Chaska. A resident shared their firsthand experience using an autonomous vehicle in San Francisco, emphasizing its operational capabilities without human intervention. The resident noted, “It’s time is coming,” highlighting the importance of preparing for such technology in Chaska. The council acknowledged the potential benefits for individuals unable to drive, such as the elderly or those with disabilities, and the need for diverse transit options as the community grows.

The council also delved into the results of the 2024 Community Survey, conducted by the Morris Leatherman Company. The survey, which involved 400 randomly selected residents, provided a margin of error of plus or minus 5%. Key findings included a high overall quality of life rating, with 96% of respondents rating it favorably, though there was a shift from “excellent” to “good” ratings post-pandemic.

Residents expressed a strong sense of community, with 93% feeling that the city was heading in the right direction. Open-ended responses highlighted the appreciation for Chaska’s small-town attributes, including its peacefulness and friendly nature. Notably, 23% of residents identified no issues within the city, a higher percentage than typically seen in other metropolitan suburbs.

The council addressed concerns about property taxes, which saw a significant rise in perception from 31% in 2018 to 43% in recent assessments. Despite this, there was strong support for maintaining city services, with 70% to 80% of respondents willing to support a property tax increase for this purpose. However, support for enhancing services dropped to 36%. Awareness of the Facilities Improvement Plan was low at 36%, yet there was overwhelming endorsement for the council’s vision regarding the plan.

The survey also examined transportation, with 90% of respondents rating their experiences positively, and 85% indicating they primarily drive to their destinations. Public transportation awareness was at 57%, with favorable ratings from those who had used it. Comparisons were drawn between Chaska’s transportation ratings and those from other communities, noting possible differences based on service types.

Infrastructure updates were another focal point, including the status of the planned water treatment facility and the construction of Wells 11 and 12. The timeline for the treatment plant construction has been pushed back to next summer due to logistical challenges in connecting the wells to the facility. The council also discussed the temporary roundabout in Clover Ridge, emphasizing the need for feedback from crossing guards and parents to assess its effectiveness in slowing traffic and enhancing safety for school routes.

Additionally, the meeting covered the pending Request for Proposals (RFP) for audit services. The incumbent firm, MMKR, has been serving for 25 years, but CLA was recommended for selection due to lower fees and technical excellence. The council considered the increased workload associated with onboarding a new auditor and the proposed firm’s experience with municipal government audits, including Chaska’s electric utility and enterprise fund operations.

Community growth and development perceptions were also discussed. The survey revealed a demand for affordable starter housing, assisted living options, and senior housing. On the commercial side, there is a strong interest in increasing entertainment establishments, retail services, light manufacturing, and dining options. Some residents perceived an oversaturation of high-end housing and parks, contrasting with broader metro area trends where more green spaces are often sought.

The council also touched on the impact of ongoing construction on downtown visitation rates. There was a noted increase in residents stating they never visit downtown, attributed to construction disruptions and potential traffic redirection. Residents expressed curiosity about the future development of southwest Chaska and its effect on downtown engagement.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the upcoming city elections, with several candidates for mayor and council positions named. A candidate forum organized by the League of Women Voters was announced for October 10, providing an opportunity for residents to learn more about the candidates.