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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026 Winter SourceINSIDE THIS ISSUE 2026 Budget summary ULI / TAP project 2026 Streets projects Boulevard tree program New utility billing platform Message from the Mayor Reminders Winter parking ordinances remain in effect through March 31. Public Works will be working on storm water maintenance in February, parks spring cleanup in March and April, pothole patching and street sweeping in April, among other projects. Lake Elmo’s Pup Park will see improvements late this spring, with both the parking lot and the water access area leading to the trails scheduled to be paved. Stay connected with Lake Elmo by signing up for email or text notifications. Receive The Fresh weekly newsletter, meeting updates, events, job postings, road construction news, and public hearing notices. Visit lakeelmo.gov and click the Notifications button on the homepage.VOLUME 16WINTER 2026THE SOURCETHE SOURCETHE SOURCE PHOTO CREDITS: LEO A. DALY AND TOM GRADY City leaders recently came together to plan for the year ahead and advocate for Lake Elmo at the state level. The mayor, City Council members, and city staff met with Rep. Wayne Johnson and Sen. Judy Seeberger to discuss Lake Elmo’s 2026 legislative priorities and how state partnerships can support the community’s long-term goals. At the top of the list was water quality and sustainability, reflecting Lake Elmo’s continued commitment to protecting its lakes, groundwater, and natural resources for future generations. Leaders also emphasized the need for reliable water treatment and long-term funding solutions to ensure safe, resilient infrastructure as the city grows. Transportation was another key focus, with discussion centered on the State Highway 36 / Lake Elmo Avenue road project and its importance for safety, access, and economic vitality. The meeting provided an opportunity to share Lake Elmo’s priorities directly, strengthen relationships at the state level, and continue advocating for investments that support a sustainable, well-connected community. Lake Elmo leaders set 2026 legislative priorities A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR Reflecting on progress and looking ahead As we move forward together, I want to take a moment to reflect on what we accomplished as a community over the past year and share what residents can expect in the year ahead. Lake Elmo continues to be a city defined by strong community spirit, thoughtful planning, and a shared commitment to preserving what makes our city such a special place to live. A Year of Community and Celebration One of the greatest strengths of Lake Elmo is our sense of community, and this year was filled with memorable events that brought neighbors together. Our July 4th Kids Parade once again showcased the joy and creativity of our youngest residents and remains a cherished tradition for families across the city. We also proudly celebrated Lake Elmo’s 100th Year Anniversary, a milestone that honored our history while reminding us how far we have come together. The year concluded with Light Up Lake Elmo, which brought warmth, music, and holiday cheer to our downtown and highlighted the generosity and togetherness that define our community. These events would not be possible without the dedication of volunteers, city staff, local organizations, and residents who give their time and energy to make Lake Elmo a welcoming place to live. Investing in Infrastructure and Public Services This year also marked important progress on roadway and infrastructure improvements across the city. We successfully completed several projects to maintain and improve essential services, including the repair of a sanitary sewer in the southwest part of the city, which had been a long-standing maintenance concern. Addressing issues like this proactively helps protect public health, ensures system reliability, and saves costs over the long term. Traffic Planning to Support a Growing Community Looking ahead, traffic planning will be an important focus as our community continues to grow. Residents will see future traffic changes at the intersections of 10th Street/CSAH 10 and Lake Elmo Avenue/CSAH 17. These changes will begin with a temporary wooden pole traffic signal system, which will allow traffic operations to be managed safely and efficiently in the near term. Washington County is designing these improvements to handle anticipated increases in traffic related to the new elementary school, which is expected to open in fall 2026. These interim measures will help ensure safety for students, families, and commuters while longer-term solutions are finalized. Major Projects on the Horizon Later this year, Washington County will begin the TH 36 and Lake Elmo Avenue Project, a significant investment that will improve safety, traffic flow, and connectivity in one of our most heavily traveled areas. At the same time, we remain focused on long-term water treatment solutions for PFAS in our city water system. Ensuring safe, reliable drinking water is one of the City’s highest priorities, and we are committed to responsible, sustainable solutions that protect public health today and well into the future. Moving Forward Together None of these accomplishments—or the important work ahead—would be possible without the support and engagement of our residents, businesses, and city staff. Your involvement, feedback, and care for Lake Elmo make a meaningful difference. Thank you for being part of this community and for helping shape a strong, resilient future for Lake Elmo. I look forward to another year of progress, partnership, and pride in the city we all call home. With gratitude, Charles Cadenhead Mayor of Lake Elmo Page 2 The Source | Winter 2026 Lakeelmo.gov ADMINISTRATION Finance department implementsnew billing software The look of your utility bills is about to change! The old-style postcards are no more. Be on the lookout for an envelope from the City of Lake Elmo, which will include a full-size utility statement as well as other pertinent and timely information for City residents. You’ll find a much more detailed statement as well as details on how to sign up for the new platform, paperless billing, and autopay! Understanding franchise fees in Lake Elmo Under Minnesota law, cities may charge utility companies a franchise fee for using public rights-of-way to deliver gas and electric service. These public areas—typically located along roadways—are used for utility lines, construction access, and snow storage. The City of Lake Elmo has franchise agreements with Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy that allow these companies to place infrastructure in the right-of-way to serve local customers. Lake Elmo’s current franchise fees were established through an ordinance mutually agreed upon by the City and the utility companies in 2025.These fees help the City offset the rising costs of providing essential public services without increasing property taxes or imposing special assessments on homeowners. By spreading costs across all gas and electric users, franchise fees create smaller individual contributions while ensuring those who benefit from city services help support them. Revenue collected from franchise fees is evenly divided, with 50 percent dedicated to infrastructure improvements and 50 percent supporting the City’s Parks Capital Fund—helping maintain and invest in community assets that residents enjoy every day. Page 3The Source | Winter 2026 City Updates Some voters in Lake Elmo will see a new location this fall Precinct 2 voters, who have been voting at the old city hall building, will move to Rockpoint Church, providing voters with a convenient and accessible new location this fall on Election Day. Residents assigned to this polling place will receive official notification with updated details prior to the election. Voters are encouraged to review their notice or check their polling location in advance to ensure a smooth voting experience. Lakeelmo.gov FINANCE Page 4 The Source | Winter 2026 Lakeelmo.gov 2026 Budget summary The city’s budget is a financial plan that prioritizes high-quality services while remaining fiscally responsible. The process to develop the budget is a collaborative effort of the city finance team, management team, and city council. Careful planning and preparation ensure our core values guide the way. The 2026 city budget is $8,859,606. 2026 Property tax levy The overall City Levy is made up of the General Fund Levy, Debt Levy, and Capital Levy. The change from 2025 to 2026 is $1,413,766, or 14.02%. Where do my taxes go? The median home value increased from $581,700 for tax year 2025 to $585,700 for tax year 2026. When applying the estimated tax rate to a median value home, you would see an increase of $179 in city tax for the year, or less than $15 per month.Tax impact on MVHThe 2026 Lake Elmo operations budget is shaped by several key cost drivers that support essential city services. Personnel costs remain the most significant factor, reflecting competitive wages, benefits, and staffing needed to maintain service levels amid a growing community. Inflationary increases in contracts, supplies, and equipment continue to impact Public Works, Parks, and Public Safety operations. Technology and software investments are also driving costs as the City modernizes systems to improve efficiency, transparency, and customer service. Additionally, rising costs for utilities, facility maintenance, and fleet operations contribute to overall operational needs. Together, these drivers ensure Lake Elmo can continue delivering high-quality services while responsibly planning for the future. 2026 LAKE ELMO Budget & Tax Levy 2025 2026 General Fund $5,588,958 $6,300,000 Debt Service $3,251,728 $3,417,785 Capital $1,243,333 $1,780,000 Total Levy $10,084,019 $11,497,785 Local Tax Rate 26.84%29.57% L a k e E l m o c o m m u n i t y s o l a r g a r d e n n o w p o w e r s l o c a l h o m e s The City of Lake Elmo continues to pursue practical, locally focused sustainability initiatives that support long- term community well-being. A recent example is the Lake Elmo Community Solar Garden, developed by Cooperative Energy Futures. The project provides residents with access to clean, affordable, renewable energy without upfront costs or the need for rooftop installation. The solar garden is located on land north of Sunfish Lake, owned by Lake Elmo resident and Economic Development Authority Commission Chair Tony Manzara. Revenue from the solar lease will help fund the Sally Mazara Interpretive Nature Center in the long term. The project also participates in the state’s Low- and Moderate-Income Accessible Community Solar Garden Program, which requires at least 30% of the solar capacity to serve qualifying households. According to Andrew Ulasich of the Minnesota Department of Commerce, participants are guaranteed savings on their utility bills. Overall, members of Cooperative Energy Futures typically see energy cost savings of 10–20%. Subscribers saw their first bill credits in December, and the project is now fully subscribed. Page 5The Source | Winter 2026 Lake Elmo Economic DevelopmentAuthority Chair Tony Manzara and councilmember Jeff Holtz cut the ribbon for thelaunch of the Community Solar Garden. Kickstart your plastic-f ree journey: Takethe Plastic-Free Challenge With so many single-use plastic items in our lives, avoiding them can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there is a lot we can do to help create a world with less plastic. Are you up for the challenge? Join the Plastic-Free Challenge (tcplasticfree.ecochallenge.org) to explore what’s possible. During the one-month challenge, you learn about plastic recycling, make plastic-free swaps, and advocate for changes in your community. By joining a community acting together, you’ll see how our individual actions add up to a big impact! About the Plastic-Free Challenge The Plastic-Free Challenge is a month-long effort starting February 1 to reduce how many plastics you use in your life in ways that best fit your lifestyle and have the most impact on reducing your footprint. The challenge has over 80 actions to choose from in eight categories. Learn more, sign up, and get ready to kickstart your plastic-free journey at tcplasticfree.ecochallenge.org. Lakeelmo.gov COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CITY PROJECTS Page 6 The Source | Winter 2026 As part of the City’s Street Capital Improvement Program, the City of Lake Elmo has identified its 2026 Street Improvement Projects. Work will take place in the Lake Elmo Heights and Eagle Point Creek Estates neighborhoods and will focus on preserving existing streets through targeted roadway and drainage improvements. Planned work includes reclaiming the existing pavement, installing a new concrete curb and gutter, and placing a new bituminous surface over the reclaimed aggregate base. Storm sewer maintenance and repairs are also included. No street widening or geometric changes are proposed, and “No Parking” signage will be installed in cul-de-sac circles in accordance with the City’s Parking Restriction Guidance Policy. No municipal sanitary sewer extensions are planned, as there is no publicly owned sanitary sewer in the project areas, and all streets are located outside the City’s MUSA boundary. Existing public water mains, installed approximately 20 years ago, are in good condition with no history of issues and will not require improvements at this time. Construction schedules and potential impacts will be communicated in advance, and access to homes will be maintained as much as possible throughout the construction season. A pre- construction meeting is planned for March, with final completion anticipated in October 2026. Visit the Public Works & Engineering page at lakeelmo.gov for project updates and additional information. 2026 Lake Elmo Streets Projects Planning for the Future: ULI TAP Study Looks at 180 Acres in Lake Elmo The City of Lake Elmo is taking a long- range, community-driven approach to planning approximately 180 acres of land near the Public Works facility. In November 2025, the City partnered with ULI Minnesota through its Technical Assistance Panel (TAP) program to evaluate how the site could best support Lake Elmo’s future. The panel’s recommendations reflect community input and focus on fiscal strength, jobs and services, housing options, sustainability, and preserving Lake Elmo’s character. The concept includes a phased mix of business, limited commercial, and housing uses, with strong attention to buffering, open space, and trail connections. The TAP study does not approve development. Any future proposals would involve additional public engagement and City Council review. Lakeelmo.gov PUBLIC WORKS Overuse of winter de-icers is harming Minnesota’s lakes, wetlands, streams, and groundwater, and just one teaspoon of de-icing salt can permanently pollute five gallons of water. Created by the Hennepin County Chloride Initiative and Metro Watershed Partners, the Low Salt, No Salt Minnesota initiative helps communities maintain winter safety while reducing harmful chloride pollution. Chlorides are difficult to remove once they enter the environment and can damage infrastructure, landscaping, and flooring; plus salt also harms fish and other aquatic life, degrades drinking water sources, and contributes to blue-green algae blooms. Research from the University of Minnesota shows that about 75% of de-icer stays where it’s applied, where it can damage soil and prematurely age pavement and concrete. When temperatures are very cold, salt is often ineffective, making alternatives such as sand or chicken grit a better choice. Chicken grit provides traction without harming the environment and is easy to sweep and reuse. Use salt wisely this winter: Shovel early to prevent snow from turning to ice Use sand or chicken grit for traction when it’s below 15°F Apply salt only where needed—one coffee cup covers a 20-foot driveway Using less salt helps keep walkways safe, saves money, and protects Lake Elmo’s water resources. Page 7The Source | Winter 2026 Use less salt this winter to protect our water University of Minnesota tests low input grass in Lake Elmo To reduce water use and fertilizer, the University of Minnesota began researching various low-input grass species in Lake Elmo, on a plot of land at 120 Lake Elmo Ave., to redefine sustainable grass and its application in Minnesota. The goal of this research is to improve conservation by developing drought-resistant grass that requires less fertilizer and irrigation water, while still maintaining an attractive lawn appearance. The UofM has installed the test plot, a temporary irrigation system, and public informational signs, and will maintain the grasses for the first year. The university will cover the cost of irrigation water, and performance evaluations will occur in 2026 and 2027. Lakeelmo.gov PARKS New Lake Elmo Boulevard tree program The City of Lake Elmo is excited to announce the launch of its new Boulevard Tree Program in February 2026! Boulevard trees are an essential part of the landscape, providing a range of benefits to residents, including improved air quality, cleaner stormwater, and improved mental health. The program will offer eligible residents a boulevard tree at no cost and will provide guidance on proper care techniques to ensure the trees thrive. Eligibility requirements and a list of potential species for selection will be shared at the program launch. Interested residents are encouraged to apply through the city’s official website in February with an anticipated sign-up window lasting until March. Planting is expected to begin in late Spring. Additional updates will be provided in the City's newsletter The Fresh, on social media, and on the City’s website in February. Page 8 The Source | Winter 2026 Arbor Day tree giveaway returns April 25 Lake Elmo residents are invited to celebrate Arbor Day by taking part in the City’s annual free tree giveaway on Saturday, April 25, from 8–10 a.m. at the Lake Elmo Public Works building. Residents can stop by to receive a bare-root seedling tree and learn more about Arbor Day in Minnesota. The event offers a simple, meaningful way for residents to help grow Lake Elmo’s tree canopy. Lake Elmo has participated in the Tree City USA community for more than 20 years. In 2024, the City planted nearly 1,100 trees in parks, developments, and open spaces, and gave away nearly 450 trees through last year ’s Arbor Day event. The annual giveaway costs about $600, a small investment that helps create a healthier, greener community for generations to come. Registration is now open for Lake Elmo parks reservations! This year, we have a new policy and fee structure for reservations. Reservations are made online, but payment (cash or check) must be mailed or dropped off at City Hall. Reservations won’t be finalized until fees/deposits are paid. Courts can be reserved for up to a month at a time, for 3 hours per day. Ballfields can be reserved for the day during the spring season (April – July) or the fall season (August – October.) Visit the City of Lake Elmo website to view available programs, dates, and registration details. Lakeelmo.gov LAKE ELMO FIRE & PUBLIC SAFETY The Lake Elmo Fire Department provides our residents and businesses with three options for CPR instruction. Courses offered: Hands-Only CPR Classes: Hands-Only CPR is a type of CPR that does not include rescue breaths. If you see a teen or adult collapse, you can perform hands-only CPR with just two easy steps: 1) Call 911 and 2) Push hard and fast in the center of the chest. This instruction does not result in a certification. The online form allows you to request on-site hands-only CPR for community groups. There is no fee for this instruction. Heart Saver CPR/AED/First Aid: Heart Saver CPR teaches adults and children how to use CPR/AED and relieve choking in adults, children, and infants. This course is designed for anyone with limited or no medical training who needs a course completion card for job requirements for CPR and AED use. The First Aid portion can be included upon request. A fee is associated with completing this course, resulting in an American Heart Association completion certificate. Basic Life Support (BLS): Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR training, which is offered to those requesting certification. The BLS Provider course is for healthcare professionals who need to know how to perform CPR and other lifesaving skills. A fee is associated with certification, and successful completion of this course will result in an American Heart Association BLS Provider card. CPR Class Request Form can be found on our Fire Department website. Please submit a request form or call the fire department at 651-747-3930 for current offerings. For up-to-date information and activities of your fire department, follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lakeelmofd/ CPR Training Provided by the Lake Elmo Fire Department Page 9The Source | Winter 2026 Sound The Alarm is a free program offered by the Lake Elmo Fire Department through a partnership with the American Red Cross. All owner-occupied dwellings in the City are eligible to receive: A safety inspection conducted by Fire Department staff. Guidance on home evacuation plans. Test and, if necessary, replace smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. Hardwired alarms will be provided to the Homeowner if install cannot be completed do to electrical connections. Give general fire safety tips. There are no costs for Sound The Alarm services or products. Apply for a Sound The Alarm Visit Today Complete the Sound The Alarm visit request form online found on our fire department website. A representative from the fire department will contact you to schedule a home visit. Sound the Alarm: Smoke alarm replacement campaign Lakeelmo.gov LIFE IN LAKE ELMO Page 10 The Source | Winter 2026 Light Up Lake Elmo sparkled with holiday cheer Lake Elmo Elementary update The project is led by Stillwater Schools, in partnership with local contractors and community stakeholders. The district anticipates welcoming students into the new building for the 2026/2027 school year and will continue to share updates as the project moves toward completion. You can follow the progress at https://www.stillwaterschools.org/our- district/bond-projects. Lakeelmo.gov Downtown Lake Elmo glowed with holiday spirit in December as families, friends, and neighbors gathered for Connect Lake Elmo’s annual Light Up Lake Elmo celebration. Despite the winter chill, the atmosphere was warm with music, laughter, and the season’s excitement. The afternoon featured festive activities for all ages, including local shops offering holiday crafts, hot cocoa, and seasonal treats. As dusk settled in, Santa arrived on the Lake Elmo Fire Truck, ready to greet all the kids and even said hello to a few of his elves. The highlight of the night arrived—the official lighting of the holiday tree—with caroling led by City Council member Jeff Holtz, and a few words from Mayor Cadenhead, lighting up the heart of the community. Progress continues on the new Lake Elmo Elementary School building, marking an exciting milestone for students, families, and the broader community. Construction remains on schedule, with major structural work completed and crews now focused on interior spaces and site improvements. The new facility is designed to support modern learning, enhance safety, and provide flexible spaces for students and staff. Once complete, the building will offer updated classrooms, improved common areas, and infrastructure that supports current and future educational needs. April 2025 January 2026 NEW RESIDENT GUIDE Page 11The Source | Winter 2026Lakeelmo.gov Utilities Water On the website, visit the How Do I page under the Apply For section. You’ll find directions to start/stop utility services, or contact the City of Lake Elmo utilities at 651-747-3906 Other Utilities Electric and Gas Service – Xcel Energy or CenterPoint Energy Garbage - Find more at lakeelmo.gov/278/Waste- Haulers Parks and recreation With over 500 acres of city parkland and more than 80 miles of trails, Lake Elmo features an extensive park and trail system for residents and visitors to enjoy and explore. Our park and trail system provides a diverse range of recreational opportunities, including organized sports, casual play, nature appreciation, hiking, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, picnicking, relaxation, and many other outdoor activities. Fire department The Lake Elmo Fire Department is administered by a career Fire Chief and Assistant Fire Chief, who are responsible for day-to-day operations. The remaining command staff consists of two paid-on-call Captains and one paid-on-call Lieutenant. The Department also has a strong focus on community outreach programs throughout the year. Visit the Department website for more information at LakeElmo.gov/248/fire- department and follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lakeelmofd/. City ordinances The City Code, along with its established ordinances, helps make Lake Elmo an exceptional place to live, work, and visit. A complete list of ordinances is available at LakeElmo.gov/172/City-Code. Code Regulations Parking is prohibited on City streets Nov. 1 to March 31, from 2 a.m. – 6 a.m. to facilitate snow removal. Recreational fires are subject to Fire Department guidelines, find them online at lakeelmo.gov/250/Recreational-Fires. Licenses and Permits The city issues many types of licenses and permits from construction and signs to fires, swimming pools, and more. Visit LakeElmo.gov on the How Do I page under Apply For for details. Water rebate program In an effort to improve municipal water use The City of Lake Elmo, in partnership with the Metropolitan Council, is offering a rebate program for purchases of eligible water-efficient products. This funding has enabled Lake Elmo to provide a rebate to current water customers who replace existing devices with specified water-efficient products, or who have an irrigation system audit completed by a professional. Qualifying purchases are eligible for a rebate on your water bill. Go to the Water Rebate Program page at www.LakeElmo.gov for guidelines, restrictions and a list of qualifying items. PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID LAKE ELMO, MN PERMIT NO. 19 City Hall3880 Laverne Ave. N.Lake Elmo, MN 55042LakeElmo.gov | (651) 747-3900 The Source is a publication of the City of Lake Elmo. REPORT A STREET OUTAGE Go to Xcel Energy https://mn.my.xcelenergy.com/s/partner- resources/municipalities/outdoor- lighting/outdoor-lighting-reporting. Either “Report it Now” or “Check Outage Status“. HOW DO I? PAY MY UTILITY BlLL With your City of Lake Elmo utility account number, proceed to the new BS&A portal at the link below to register, manage your account, set up autopay, or make payments. Lakeelmo.gov/ub. If you need assistance, reach out to us at RNess@LakeElmo.gov or call 651-747-3906. POSTAL PATRON LAKE ELMO, MN 55042 Reminders: Winter Parking Restrictions began November 1. Cars are prohibited from parking on city streets between 2 am and 7 am, November 1 to March 31. Sign up on the City’s website to receive notifications about city meetings, road projects, parks events, and the Fresh Weekly Newsletter. Stay informed and never miss important updates! LAKE ELMO CITY COUNCIL Mayor Charles Cadenhead Council Nick Dragisich Matt Hirn Jeff Holtz Nick Kragness City Administrator Nicole Miller Office HoursMon - Fri: 8 AM - 4:30 PM Summer HoursMemorial Day - Labor DayMon-Th: 7 a.m. to 4:30 PM / Fri: 8AM - Noon 651-300-9641 651-303-6378 715-432-3608 651-705-6675 952-288-5401 651-747-3905