The primary focus of the meeting was the controversial proposal for a new fire department. Residents expressed deep concerns about the financial burden this initiative would impose on the community. One resident critically noted that the fire department project, originally projected to cost $21 million, had seen its expenses balloon, potentially straining taxpayers further. Another resident, reflecting on a 2017 fire study, questioned why the council had not pursued a partnership with nearby Elk River for fire services, which was considered a more cost-effective solution at the time.

Several attendees criticized the council’s decision-making process, highlighting a lack of transparency and community involvement. One resident, expressing skepticism about the council’s financial priorities, accused them of “wasting funds” on ill-conceived projects, asserting that the city’s spending habits were not aligned with community needs. A long-time local engineer expressed frustration at being “taxed out” of their home.

The meeting also revealed a divide among council members regarding the budget and levy increases. One council member pointed out that the entire property tax increase was attributed to the decision to establish the city’s fire department, noting a significant surge in related debt payments. Another member emphasized that the city’s growth, averaging 1,200 new residents annually, necessitated budget increases to meet service demands, though some argued this did not justify the proposed tax hikes.

As the council deliberated on the preliminary tax levy, discussions highlighted the challenges of balancing immediate financial obligations with long-term fiscal responsibility. Suggestions to mitigate the tax increase included delaying new hires and utilizing one-time funds, though concerns were raised about the potential for creating a “fiscal cliff” in future budgets. The council ultimately adopted a preliminary property tax levy, reflecting a $581,000 increase from the previous year, to cover costs associated with hosting elections, law enforcement, fire protection contracts, and staffing.

Beyond the fire department issue, residents criticized the council’s communication methods, calling for more direct engagement such as mailed notices rather than relying solely on meeting attendance or online updates. This sentiment was echoed by attendees who felt that the council was not adequately addressing community concerns.

Other topics included the development plans for Kitridge Crossings and the proposed zoning amendments for properties at the end of Kaylor Avenue. The Kitridge Crossings development, involving 203 townhomes, faced scrutiny over its impact on traffic and community aesthetics. Concerns were raised about the transition from existing twin homes to the proposed rural townhomes and the potential increase in traffic due to direct access onto Kaland Avenue, a commercial collector road.

The council also addressed a preliminary plat review and zoning amendment for a property owned by Thomas and Ashley Smith. The proposal involved subdividing the property into three lots, requiring rezoning to permit smaller lot sizes. The council discussed the implications of the zoning change, emphasizing compliance with planning guidelines while acknowledging challenges posed by the site’s topography and wetlands.

As the meeting concluded, the council considered the implications of using gambling funds to offset property tax levies, with one member cautioning against relying on such short-term fixes. The meeting ended with updates on ongoing city projects, including trail paving and water main work, and a motion to adjourn was passed without opposition.