A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to a public hearing on truth in taxation, focusing on the proposed tax levy for 2026. The council presented a analysis of the levy, which is set to remain unchanged at $1,319,879. Deliberations included a breakdown of the allocation across the general fund, capital improvement projects (CIP), and debt service. While the general fund is anticipated to decrease slightly, the CIP will see an increase, and debt service obligations will decline. Visual data from 2018 to 2026 illustrated these trends, emphasizing the strategic separation of CIP funds from the general fund to stabilize operational expenses.

The council highlighted the decrease in the tax rate from the high 40s to approximately 35-36, positioning Mayer as having the third lowest tax rate among eleven cities in Carver County. This achievement reflects improved fiscal management and strategic planning in comparison to neighboring cities. Revenue changes, such as increased building permit revenues and decreased fire contract revenues, were noted as factors influencing the general fund levy. Budget expenditures for areas like public safety have decreased, primarily due to adjustments in fire department contributions.

Attention then turned to the community facility rental fee schedule. Over a three-year period, minimal use of shorter rental periods, such as two-day or three-day rentals, prompted the council to consider eliminating these options. Instead, they proposed a streamlined rental structure with daily rates for small and large groups, allowing for multi-day bookings if necessary. Discussions also addressed the potential consolidation of damage deposits into one, due to the rare occurrence of deductions. A proposed $25 increase in rental rates was justified by rising cleaning and utility costs.

Further discussion explored nonprofit rental rates, with a focus on differentiating between local civic groups and non-local nonprofits. Historically, local groups like the Watertown Mayor’s office and Zion Lutheran Athletics have utilized the facilities free of charge, raising questions about the fairness of imposing fees on community-benefiting events. Council members expressed concerns about charging local civic groups for events like the Lions Club’s fundraisers, as these contribute positively to the community.

As cleaning fees were also evaluated, it was suggested that a $75 charge be applied for “cleanable events,” though fees could be waived if cleaning staff were unnecessary. There was debate over whether city departments, such as the fire department, should be charged for facility use, leading to a suggestion that the city absorb these costs.

The council also proposed updates to copier and document fees, suggesting a flat rate of 25 cents per page for all printed materials, and discussed new fees, such as a free “hot air balloon permit” and clarity on “new home construction” permits. A wetland delineation escrow was introduced to secure funds for necessary environmental assessments, with proposed fees set at $2,500 for residential and $5,000 for commercial projects.

Hydrant meter fees were analyzed, with a proposal to increase the damage deposit from $800 to $1,000 to cover potential losses. Additionally, a $50 fee for utility reconnections after non-payment was proposed for formal inclusion in the fee schedule.

The council also approved a minor subdivision involving a land exchange on 404th Street Northeast, contingent on the newly acquired land being adjoined with existing properties to avoid creating unbuildable lots. The updated 2025 personnel policy was also adopted, and the hiring of three firefighters was approved, subject to successful background checks.