Minutes - Council Work Session - 08/25/2026

Home

and maintaining the previously supported levy target by identifying offsetting reductions elsewhere in the budget. Finance Director Lund estimated that applying approximately one-half of the current rate would result in a General Fund expense of approximately $47,500. The consensus of the Council was to bill the splash pad at a reduced water rate, resulting in an estimated annual General Fund cost of $47,500, distribute the expense through the citywide tax base, and direct staff to identify approximately $47,500 in other budget reductions so the preliminary levy remained at the previously supported level. City Administrator Hagen also requested preliminary authorization to advance the purchase of approximately 13 iPads and vehicle mounting brackets for the Fire Department. He explained that the countywide police and fire computer-aided dispatch system was transitioning to Tyler software in October 2026. Purchasing the iPads in 2026 would allow firefighters to train on the equipment they would ultimately use rather than training on computers scheduled for replacement in 2027. The purchase would be funded through TIF District 14 reimbursement funds and would not affect the 2026 or 2027 levy. Fire Chief Winkel confirmed the software transition was countywide and affected both law enforcement and fire departments. The Council agreed to support bringing forward a resolution authorizing the 2026 purchase of the Fire Department iPads and mounting equipment, with the corresponding item removed from the 2027 capital budget. 2.02: Discuss Council Member Participation in a Health Care Savings Plan Administrative Services Director Lasher reviewed a recent statutory change allowing elected officials who were not covered by a City's personnel policy to participate in a post-employment health care savings plan. She explained that contributions would be made on a pre-tax basis and could be used after service for eligible medical expenses for the participant, spouse, and legal tax dependents. Eligible withdrawals would not be taxed, while funds used for other purposes would be taxable. Administrative Services Director Lasher emphasized that participation could not be elected individually. The Council would first determine whether to establish a plan, followed by an anonymous vote on the plan design. If approved by the required majority, all Councilmembers would be required to participate under the adopted terms, even if individual members had voted against the plan. The Council would need to determine the amount or percentage of compensation directed to the plan, and Minnesota State Retirement System approval would be required. Administrative Services Director Lasher explained that a plan design would generally remain in effect for two years. Changing the design sooner could result in an estimated $250 administrative fee. She noted that limited opt-out criteria existed. If contributions were added above current Council compensation, the City would need to follow the statutory process applicable to City Council Work Session / August 25, 2026 Page 3 of 7