09-02-25 - City Council Work Session Minutes

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The Community Development Director reviewed the impact on the adjacent recreation facilities including a ballfield, ice rink and playground. The Public Services Director stated that the Park Board would need to develop a new Master Park Plan for the area. 4. 2026 Preliminary Budget and Levy The Finance Director presented a summary of the changes made since the Budget Work Session on August 18th. The levy was proposed at $18,217,980 on August 18th and is now proposed at $18,186,218. The Interim Finance Director requested Council Direction on several items that were discussed at the last budget meeting. Council direction to remove the Flock/Axon License Plate Readers from the 2026 budget. Council direction to keep the Police K9 Unit, new expenses that were previously not budgeted, in the 2026 budget and to continue to accept donations as provided by local organizations. Council direction to keep the Public Services Department forklift in the 2026 budget. Council direction to remove the rescue/mud motorboat from the 2026 budget and to work with Anoka County to secure rescue equipment for Lino Lakes through coverage by the Anoka County Sheriff's Office. With the option to bring this item back as a future year consideration if needed. Council direction to staff to prepare a report related to the request for a min -excavator in 2026, to include the cost of contracting out work and the estimated maintenance costs and staff time costs if the excavator is purchased. Council Consensus It was the consensus of the City Council to move the proposed Preliminary 2026 Budget and Levy forward as presented with the amendments noted, for approval on September 22, 2025. Mayor Rafferty asked for a status update on the personnel policy amendments related to the Fire Fighter medical insurance required to allow the proposed scheduling program to move forward. Page 2 of 4