In a move meant to shape the fiscal and infrastructural landscape of the upcoming year, the city council, as reported earlier this week, approved the 2025 operating budget along with property tax levies set for the coming year. According to the documentation provided by the city's official website, the approved levy signifies a 7.23 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Following a public hearing, the council adopted resolutions concerning the rates for utilities such as water and sewage, which are slated to be adjusted starting January 1, 2025. Ensured by the new rates, city-operated utility services aim to maintain efficiency and meet the financial needs necessary for their operation and infrastructure upkeep. The resolutions were part of a broader scheme to sustain municipal services at a level that responds to the growing demands of the city's populace.
To centralize waste management, the council has integrated organized organics recycling into the existing curbside recycling contract for 2025-27, as per the City of Minnetonka. With the new ordinance, residents won't pay individually for curbside organics collection. The cost is included in the hauler's service package.
Meanwhile, in the realm of housing, the council's decision to approve the transfer of a city-owned property to the Economic Development Authority stands poised to pave the way for affordable housing development. Amani Construction, entrusted with the task, will oversee the creation of housing solutions in adherence to the affordability guidelines, deploying funds from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund for this project, the City of Minnetonka noted.
