Intense debate ensued regarding the management of the city’s compost site, which has become a financial burden due to escalating operational costs. The council discussed the need for more effective monitoring to prevent unauthorized dumping, with concerns highlighted about the site’s 60% increase in expenses following a storm event. One council member expressed that such a financial spike would not be acceptable in other budget areas, stressing the need for a strategic approach to manage the site’s costs.

The compost site has been overwhelmed by increased usage, often attributed to both residents and non-residents contributing to the waste volume. A Public Works employee shared a video illustrating the volume handled over a weekend, with the site frequently full by Mondays. The presence of non-compostable materials like cement blocks has added to disposal challenges, despite the city’s contract with Minnesota Top Soil for waste removal.

Proposals to address these issues included implementing fines for improper dumping and considering tighter access restrictions. However, legal limitations regarding administrative citations were noted as potential barriers. Another idea involved reinstating restrictions such as limited weekend access or hiring temporary staff to monitor the site. Some council members suggested exploring neighborhood compost pickup services to better understand community needs and reduce pressure on the central facility.

The council also revisited the possibility of relocating the compost site, with previous plans to move it to the Public Works site facing logistical hurdles. Discussions about partnering with the Arboretum for composting services were revived, although past concerns about smell and traffic had previously halted progress. Despite these challenges, the council recognized the compost site’s value to residents, with some members suggesting it could serve as a model for effective composting practices in the region.

In addition to the compost site, the council workshop included a review of the 2025 budget proposals presented by Trisha Pollock, the assistant city manager and finance director. Key discussions centered on the Victoria Recreation Center Enterprise fund, utility rate increases, and the long-term capital improvement plan.

Pollock highlighted a projected revenue increase for the Recreation Center, anticipating $1.2 million in 2025, largely funded by the Eastern Carver County School District through leases and reimbursements. A capital outlay of $57,000 was planned for facility updates, addressing public feedback on the center’s outdated appearance. Operating expenses were expected to remain stable, with significant portions allocated to debt service.

Utility funds were also under scrutiny, with proposed rate increases for sewer and stormwater services. A planned 8% increase in sewer rates was attributed to rising costs from the Metropolitan Council, with an additional 8% increase for stormwater. These changes were part of a broader three-year increment plan. The council discussed the need for ongoing water conservation efforts, including regular notifications to residents with high usage.

A comprehensive Five-Year Capital Improvements Plan was also reviewed, focusing on strategic planning for large-scale projects. The Public Works department outlined the need for new equipment, including a field painter and a dump truck. The fire department discussed plans for relocating a warning siren and replacing equipment, with a public hearing scheduled for bonding construction costs of a new fire station.

Discussions on the general fund budget included addressing a projected 20% increase in health insurance premiums, which was mitigated to an estimated 8% by switching carriers. The council aimed to finalize budget figures following open enrollment, with a target adoption date of December 9th. The general fund budget also faced pressures from the Street Maintenance fund and funding transfers.