HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-28-2025 CC Minutes - Work Session 74ak;)
Minutes
City Council Work Session
K.IAT(r-EMonday, July 28, 2025, 4:00 PM
`1kESN0°' City Council Chambers 12780 Kelley Parkway, Orono, MN 55356
ROLL CALL
City Council members present: Mayor Bob Tunheim, City Council Members Jacqueline Ricks, Jon
Schwingler, Steve Persian(5:15). Absent: Alisa Benson.
Staff present: City Administrator Adam Edwards, Police Chief Coney Farniok, Interim Fire Chief
Shea Chwialkowski, Community Development Director Laura Oakden, Public Works
Superintendent DJ Goman, Parks/Facilities Superintendent Joe Ruthenberg, Finance Director
Maggie Jin, Accountant Anne Hentges, City Clerk Christine Lusian.
GENERAL FUND,TAX LEVY,INTERNAL SERVICE FUNDS
Staff provided a preliminary update on the general fund, tax levy, and internal service fund
budgets. The process is about one-third complete. At this point, the tax rate is estimated at
16.797%, representing a small increase from 2025. For the median-value home in Orono ($1.11
million),this would mean about$14 more per month.
The group expressed interest in keeping the tax rate as stable as possible, while recognizing
rising costs associated with priorities like community engagement,technology, and tree removal.
Key cost drivers include inflation, health insurance changes,new family medical leave law
requirements,maintenance of streets and trees, and uni en employee compensation packages
(currently in negotiation). Departments are planning for initiatives such as enhanced police
staffing and software, an updated comprehensive 10-year plan, increased tree care and park
maintenance, and the administration of two elections.
Staff will continue refining the budget and present an updated proposal at the September 8 work
session for further discussion.
ADJOURNMENT
Work session ended at 5:48 p.m.
ATTEST: CITY COUNCIL
12-C-----
Christine tan, Ci Cl Bob Tunheim, Mayor