The summary includes brief highlights from the Dec. 8 city council meeting. View the full meeting and agenda packet.
The city council adopted resolutions to establish the 2026 budget and set the 2025 tax levies, collectible in 2026. Staff outlined the various budget initiatives and influencing factors and offered levy analysis and forecasting. The approved levy is equal to a 7.91 percent increase.
The city council approved the 2026 utility rates, which will take effect on bills issued after Jan. 1, 2026. The city annually reviews water, sewer, stormwater and recycling fees to ensure long-term funding for operations, capital needs and future infrastructure investments. The updates reflect findings from recent rate and asset management studies and help maintain reliable, efficient utility services. Council set the 2026 deferred interest rate and updated related utility fee structures.
The city council approved a resolution to advance the Cedar Lake Road and Ridgedale Drive improvement project, which includes pavement rehabilitation, updated pedestrian and bicycle features and replacement of several aging traffic signals. The project will improve safety, extend pavement life and support a well-maintained roadway system.
The city council tabled a resolution related to the Excelsior Boulevard (County Road 3) Improvement Project. The city and county are proposing street, utility and trail improvements to correct deficiencies of the aged roadway and utilities and expand the city’s trail network between County Road 101 to Eden Prairie Road (County Road 4). The council is anticipated to review the project at a future meeting.
The city council approved a conditional use permit and final site and building plans for 7 Brew, a new coffee and beverage business with a drive-thru at 17501 Hwy 7. The project will add a small drive-thru coffee shop to an underused portion of the existing parking lot and has been reviewed for traffic flow, safety, stormwater management and landscaping improvements.
The city council approved an ordinance amending city code section 710.005 to update fees related to animal registrations, commercial kennels, alarm registrations and false alarms and inspections of state-licensed facilities. The changes reflect increased service costs and staff time and include adding a fee for state-mandated inspections. The ordinance also establishes a 5-percent credit card processing fee for payments over $5,000.
The city council recognized the winners of Minnetonka’s annual photo contest, which drew 94 submissions across three categories: Animals, Landscapes and Uniquely Minnetonka. Council congratulated Cory Mondale, Chris Murphy and Katie Rajchert for their outstanding contributions that showcase the beauty and spirit of Minnetonka.
