HomeMy WebLinkAboutAboutTown_2024AnnualReport_Web-2 (2) (1)2024 Annual Report of the City of Edina
AboutTown
Braemar Park Mountain Bike Trails Cover photo by Dan Carpenter
Edina’s first dedicated mountain biking trails opened in summer 2024 in Braemar Park. The six miles of looping trails have been a huge hit with riders. See page 18 for details or learn more at EdinaMN.gov/BraemarTrails.
On The Cover
Table Of Contents
Translations
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Escanee este código para
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AboutTown
2024 Annual Report Circulation 25,000
Official Publication of the EdinaMN.gov City of Edina, Minnesota 4801 W. 50th St. Edina, Minnesota 55424 952-826-0359
Editor: Jennifer Bennerotte
Designer: Dan Doar
Contributing Writers: Brittany Bader, Jennifer Bennerotte, Kate Heimel, David Katz, Jacey Mismash, Lauren Siebenaler and Debbie Townsend
Publisher: City of Edina
Copyright 2025 by City of Edina, 4801 W. 50th St., Edina, MN 55424.
Strong FoundationCITY GOALS:Better TogetherReliable Service Livable City A Word From The Mayor .........................................................1
GHG Reductions, Climate Fund
Highlight 2024 Successes..........................................................2
ADA Sidewalk Improvements in Southeast
Edina Improve Transit Experience ..........................................8
City and School District Experts Answer
Tax-Increment Financing Questions .....................................10
Get to Know the New Fire Station 2 .....................................14
New Laws and Changes in 2024 ...........................................16
Trail Openings Highlight Park and Arena Projects ...........18
2024-2025 Budget Work Plan .................................................23
City Trims 2025 Budget,Starts Planning for 2026-2027 .......30
Donors Focus on Safety and Parks in 2024 ..........................32
Landmark Public Safety Complex Celebrates
20 Years – And New Investments .........................................34
The Last Word .........................................................................40
City Of Edina Facilities ...........................................................41
On Jan. 17, 2025, at the U.S. Conference of Mayors winter meeting in Washington, D.C., mayors from across the country saw Vivek Murthy make his last appearance as Surgeon General of the United States. After two terms of service dedicated to improving the public health of our country, Murthy worries greatly about the effect of social media on our children. “The need to matter,” he said, “in a world of constant comparison” is adversely affecting the lives of so many young people. That pressure of constant comparison, coupled with what Murthy believes is the misplaced pursuit of the triad of fame, wealth and power that permeates the internet as a goal for our children, needs to be replaced by what he calls “the Triad of Fulfillment”— namely service, purpose and relationships. These three virtues — service, purpose and relationships — are also the core pillars of a true community. I see the dedication to those virtues in Edina, every single day, from both people and organizations.
So, when Jennifer Bennerotte, our longtime Communications Director for the City of Edina, asked me to consider writing about what I foresee for the years ahead, I think first not about things such as land use or growth patterns, infrastructure or park improvements, but about the importance of maintaining and enhancing that commitment to what Surgeon General Murthy calls the Triad of Fulfillment. Such a commitment will not only build a stronger, more well-connected community, it will also have the positive effect of modeling what is important for our children — and positively impact their self-esteem and health in both mental and physical ways.
If we all put people of every age first, we can have a profound effect on the lives of each other. Leading with love and compassion for others will be an investment in each other, ourselves and our community. In a world seemingly intent on creating differences and distinctions between people, and attempting to divide us through misinformation and false narratives, grounding ourselves in service, purpose and relationships will also guide us in maintaining civility and respect toward each other as we advance our community toward unity and not disharmony.
One of our City goals is “Better Together”— constantly fostering an inclusive and engaged community — and this can be done so effectively, in our town and in our schools, by having purpose, serving others and building relationships. Even, and maybe especially, as we think about our future, and designing a framework for guiding not only development, redevelopment and enhancement, we should keep striving to create a model of a successful nature and progressive urban community that “leads in a modern and evolving world,” we should keep, as our foundation for all that we do, a commitment to that Triad of Fulfillment, for the next four years and beyond because that constant dedication to service, purpose and building relationships will serve all of us, and our community, so well for generations to come.
James B. Hovland Mayor
A Word From The Mayor
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 1
2 • ABOUT TOWN
GHG Reductions, Climate Fund
Highlight 2024 Successes
By Debbie Townsend
The City of Edina, with help from businesses, residents and property owners, continued progress in 2024 toward meeting climate goals by 2030.
The goals, and more than 200 actions to reach them, are outlined in the 2021 Climate Action Plan.
“Each action we achieve in our Climate Action Plan builds a more resilient, adaptive Edina,” said Sustainability Manager Marisa Bayer. “Combating the negative effects of climate change can be overwhelming, but through behavior change, program participation and policy compliance, our resident and business community are actively supporting our climate goals.”
Among the 2024 highlights:
• 17% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions communitywide from the baseline 2019 levels
• $1.9 million in grant funding secured since mid-2023 for climate projects
• 58 energy-efficiency projects by residents or private property owners received cost-share reimbursements
• 32 e-bikes residents purchased with assistance from cost-share program launched in 2024
• 4 major awards or recognitions for sustainability projects
Climate Action Plan Progress
The Climate Action Plan is divided into nine categories, from Transportation & Land Use to Greenspace & Trees.
2024 Highlights:
• Hosted resident-focused workshop on home electrification
• Completed Edina’s 2023 greenhouse gas inventory to measure the City’s progress toward goals
• Started sustainability grant implementation for natural area restoration, infested ash tree removal and mobility action plan
• Finalized studies evaluating fleet electrification, solar suitability and electric vehicle (EV) charging locations
• Kicked off new carryout bag fee policy and continued other sustainability policy implementation
Cross Cutting
Transportation and Land Use
Buildings and Energy
Waste Management
Water & Wastewater
Local Food & Agriculture
Greenspace & Trees
Climate Health & Safety
Climate Economy
14 of 14 actions completed
11 of 28 actions completed or underway
23 of 46 actions
completed or
underway
11 of 24 actions completed or underway
12 of 18 actions completed or underway
1 of 18 actions completed or underway
17 of 24 actions completed or underway
7 of 21 actions completed or underway
7 of 24 actions completed or underway
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 3
Greenhouse Gas Reductions
Perhaps the biggest climate win in 2024 was learning that communitywide GHG emission reductions are slightly ahead of targets.
GHGs are important because they trap the heat from the sun, much like a greenhouse, fueling climate change. Burning fossil fuels, using electricity and driving all create GHGs. So does decomposing biodegradable waste in a landfill, which is why proper organics recycling/composting is so important.
Edina’s goal is to reduce communitywide greenhouse gas emissions 45% by 2030 from a 2019 baseline. The goal for communitywide GHG emissions for 2023 was 593,408 metric tons. The actual emissions were 588,428, reflecting a 17% reduction from 2019 emissions.
The findings, provided by consultant paleBLUEdot, show Edina is on track so far to reach its 2030 goal of a 45% GHG reduction by 2030. To put the reduction in perspective, it would be the equivalent of planting about 20 million trees.
The celebration, however, is muted.
“That reduction is almost exclusively because of Xcel Energy’s investment in carbon-free electricity generation,” said Sustainability Specialist Matthew Gabb.
Xcel Energy has its own goal to reduce carbon emissions 80% by 2030, to comply with State mandates. To do that, it has started work to add more wind and solar and
retire carbon-heavy operations such as coal. Its plans also include improving the electric grid for better delivery and improving energy storage.
Edina has some small victories:
• Municipal operations are all on track for buildings, streetlights, solid waste, water and wastewater
• Municipal fleet reductions narrowly missed the target
• Citywide, building sector emissions have declined and are on track for 2030 goals
• More residents are adding solar, but slightly under the current target
• Both vehicle miles traveled and natural gas use are lower than expected
Track Progress
The Climate Action Plan dashboard is updated quarterly with progress on all nine categories, and details on each action.
Visit EdinaMN.gov/ClimatePortal
(continued on next page)
Progress Toward GHG Goal
203020292028202720262025202420232022202120202019
700,000
600,000
500,000
400,000
300,000
200,000
100,000
0
GHG Emissions, MTCO2eBuildings Waste Water Actual Emissions Progress Toward GoalTransportation
This graph represents the project emission reductions needed
to meet Edina’s 2030 goal. The gold “progress toward goal”
markers represent Edina’s actual emissions compared to the
projected emission reductions.
4 • ABOUT TOWN
But some of the trends are troubling. Vehicle miles traveled are trending up and if that continues, they will miss the 2030 goal. Meanwhile, electric vehicle adoption has been slower than needed to meet goals, and public transit use has plateaued. Residents are not reducing electricity use, falling short in both recycling and organics recycling, and are still using more water than target levels, according to paleBLUEdot.
“Our Climate Action Plan progress so far has been positive, but there is still more to do to meet our goals,” said Bayer. “Immediate actions from residents include weatherizing their homes with adequate levels of insulation; exploring opportunities to power their homes with off-site or on-site solar energy; replacing car trips with walking, biking or transit when possible; and active participation in the City’s organics and recycling programs.”
The next GHG update will be in 2026 based off 2025 data.
Climate Grants Secured
There’s a new nickname in the Sustainability Division: Million-Dollar Matthew.
“Thanks to Sustainability Specialist Matthew Gabb, the City of Edina has secured $1.9 million in grants,” Bayer said. “We just need $100,000 more and we will have ‘Two-Million Matthew’.”
Gabb was hired in March 2023 and spends about 70% of work time on grants, many of which are highly competitive. These grants enable the City to make progress on Climate Action Plan goals. “What this grant funding does is leverage existing dollars so we can go so much further,” Bayer said.
Grants Secured as of 2024
Total: $1.9 million
• $550,000: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) – Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program
• Remove invasive species and restore 44 acres of Bredesen Park to native oak savanna and wetlands, including habitat for the endangered state bee, the rusty patched bumble bee.
• $480,000: DNR – Shade Tree Bonding Grant
• Remove hazardous ash trees damaged by the invasive emerald ash borer. Each removed tree will be replaced by two new climate-adaptive trees.
• $200,000: U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) – Safe Streets & Roads for All Program
• Nearly 14 percent of all roadway crashes in Edina involve pedestrians and cyclists. To make our roads safer and meet Climate Action Plan goals, Edina is creating a Safe & Equitable Mobility Action Plan that combines all current transportation plans, creates a road safety plan, and encourages more people to walk, bike and roll around the city.
• $50,000: Minnesota Department of Transportation – Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Match Program
• Covers cash match required for USDOT grant
Latest GHG Report
Visit EdinaMN.gov/Sustainability
Sustainability Specialist Matthew Gabb has secured $1.9
million in grants for Edina’s projects, earning them the
nickname “Million-Dollar Matthew.”Photo by Jason Heuer
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 5
• $30,000: Internal Revenue Service - Elective Pay Clean Energy Tax Credits
• Clean vehicle tax credits for four electric vehicles
• B100 Project Grants
• The first of its kind for a Minnesota city, this project will convert 10 snowplows and dump trucks from being diesel-powered to running on B100 biofuel. This will reduce each vehicle’s emissions by up to 90 percent, helping the City meet its climate goals, improve air quality and provide a case study for other cold-climate cities to decarbonize their fleets.
• $50,000: Minnesota Pollution Control Agency – Local Climate Action Grant
• $119,340: U.S. Department of Energy – Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program
• $163,000: U.S. Department of Agriculture – Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program
• $163,000: Minnesota Commerce Department – State Competitiveness Fund
Covers cash match required for USDA grant
• $100,000: Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council
Community Climate Action
Fund Success
For the first time in its three-year history, the Community Climate Action Fund gave out its entire annual funding to residents and property owners who made energy-efficient upgrades or shifted to using e-bikes for some transportation.
It was so popular that the 2024 application period ended early when annual funding ran out.
The fund, which provides reimbursement for projects ranging from insulation to heat pumps, induction stoves to solar, gave out nearly $100,000 in 2024. That helped residents make nearly $1 million in upgrades.
Ninety projects qualified for cost match in 2024, up from 52 projects in 2023 and just over 30 in 2022.
E-bikes were added in 2024, and the $500 cost share drove purchases and applications. The interest was so overwhelming that a new quarterly lottery system was launched in January 2025 to fairly distribute funding among applicants.
“The success of the Community Climate Action Fund in 2024 demonstrates our community’s commitment to increasing energy efficiency and supporting renewable energy,” Gabb said. “I am excited to see the variety of projects happening in Edina that help move the needle on emissions reductions.”
(continued on next page)Submitted PhotoA section of Bredesen Park, after removal of invasive species
and dying ash trees. This nature restoration project will help
return native species and is paid for with a $550,000 grant.
Apply for 2025
EdinaMN.gov/ClimateFund
6 • ABOUT TOWN
Residents Appreciate
Climate Fund
After moving into our 1950s rambler, we quickly realized we had our work cut out for us! Upgrades to HVAC, water heating and electric were all in order and came with price tags we were less than thrilled with! But we realized the savings we could recover by using air-source heat pumps and having efficient, sustainable home and water heating. Factoring in the tax savings, and incentives offered through the Climate Action Fund, the decision was more than justified and will continue to be in years to come! Matthew was easy to work with and went out of (their) way to ensure that our rebates were processed swiftly.
- Tim Simonson, Concord Neighborhood
The [Climate] Action Fund provided the extra incentive we needed to finally install solar panels on our home. The entire process was seamless, and the communication was excellent. As parents of two young children, we’re concerned about the future of our planet and choose to believe that every little bit helps. We hope others will consider taking similar steps toward a more sustainable future.
- Chris Ehrhart, Golf Terrace HeightsPhoto by Jason Heuer2Heat Pump Water
Heaters Installed
$98,466Allocated
$985,198
Leveraged in private
investment by residents
12Solar Systems
Installed
15Heat Pumps
Installed
19Homes
Insulated
Applications submitted90Projectsfor 86
32 E-Bikes
(including 4
cargo bikes)
10Induction Stoves
Installed
Community Climate Action
Fund Success
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 7
We purchased an electric car in 2022 and decided to do more by completing an energy audit and investing in solar. Since installation, we have generated significantly more energy than we have used, so we are pleased with the project. Cost sharing through the Climate Action Fund was a huge plus, given that the project was a huge investment. Thanks again for all of your timely communication and help!
- Gail Beske, Countryside Neighborhood
The option of using the latest technology and producing a lower carbon footprint while saving money on my energy bills was very appealing. The heat pump installation was simple, and we reused all of the existing ductwork. It was literally a plug and play. The Climate Action Fund provided financial incentives that reduced the cost of the initial installation to a comparable level of a standard split system with a condensing unit and furnace. We will now benefit long-term with lower energy costs and save money in the future.
- Rick Hellebrand, Countryside Neighborhood
Major Sustainability
Recognitions
For its sustainability work, the City and its dedicated staff have received national and state recognition:
• U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Awards – Honorable Mention for NextGen Trees initiative, which planted 1,000 new trees
• Urban Sustainability Directors Network Annual Meeting – conference presentation about the Community Climate Action Fund
• Minnesota Chapter of the American Public Works Association – Environmental co-winner for the Morningside Flood Infrastructure Project, which reduced flood risk for more than 150 properties
• Minnesota GreenStep Cities – Step 5 recognition, the highest level of recognition, noting Edina is tracking data and taking higher-impact actions
For more information about the Sustainability Division,
the Climate Action Plan or its projects, contact Bayer at
mbayer@EdinaMN.gov or 952-826-1621. Submitted PhotoEngineering Director Chad Millner (second from left) and
Engineering Services Manager Ross Bintner (fourth) represented
Edina at the American Public Works Association Minnesota
Chapter award ceremony in November recognizing the
Morningside Flood Infrastructure Project.Photo by Jason Heuer
8 • ABOUT TOWN
ADA Sidewalk Improvements
in Southeast Edina Improve
Transit Experience
In 2024, Public Works and Engineering staff teamed up to add 23 accessible bus pads at transit stops in southeast Edina, making it easier for everyone—especially those with limited mobility—to get on and off the bus.
You can find them in the Centennial Lakes, Edinborough, Promenade and Southdale neighborhoods on various streets, including York Avenue South, Edinborough Way, West 76th Street, Barrie Road and Heritage Drive.
This project was completed in coordination with the City’s Proactive Pavement Management Program and the Sidewalk Inspection Program. Barrie Road and Heritage Drive were part of the Southdale B Neighborhood Roadway Reconstruction project.
Before the changes, riders at these stops had to cross a grass boulevard to board or exit the bus. Since grass is not a stable surface, this could make access difficult for individuals using mobility devices like wheelchairs or walkers. For the concrete landings to be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)--compliant, they needed to be flat, with less than 2% slopes, and be a minimum of 5 feet wide by 8 feet long to accommodate when the bus ramp is deployed.
Unique to the Southdale B project, these local streets support Metro Transit service, specifically, the 578 Express Route. Since new sidewalks were already proposed for the neighborhood, Transportation Planner Andrew Scipioni and Assistant City Engineer Aaron Ditzler coordinated with Metro Transit on the design and approval of the new bus pads to bring them into ADA compliance, with the goal of continuing this effort in future construction seasons.
At the same time, the Sidewalk Inspection Program, which was started in 2022 to identify and fix hazards within Edina’s sidewalk network, was also scheduled to review the southeast quadrant.
Scipioni and Derek Leonard, the City’s Sidewalk Inspector at the time, used this opportunity to update Metro Transit bus stops in the same area that did not meet ADA accessibility standards.
What further emphasized the need for these improvements for Leonard was firsthand seeing someone using a mobility device having to take an indirect route—needing to travel down the sidewalk until they reached a pedestrian ramp, enter the street, and then make their way back toward the bus just to be able to board it.
This project made a big difference in a short period of time and at a relatively low cost. Scipioni notes that many of the new landings were poured and ready to use within just a couple of days. The project cost $5,826, which was paid for through the Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety Fund.
“It’s our hope that these changes make the transit stops that we have in Edina more accessible and convenient to use. In the locations where we made improvements, there’s now a concrete pad where users with mobility devices will have space to board and get off the bus,” said Scipioni. “A secondary benefit is when it rains or snows, there is an actual path to walk on without riders getting wet or muddy.”
Additionally, Leonard worked in the area to replace 18 pedestrian curb ramps on Edinborough Way, West 76th Street, Hazelton Road and West 69th Street to meet ADA standards.
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 9
“Our goal is to make a transportation network that is continuous, convenient and connects people to everyday uses, like schools, parks, places of employment, and, what this project really focused on: transit,” said Scipioni. “Our Climate Action Plan has a goal to double our transit ridership from 3.3% to 6.6% by 2030. While this is a small action to take toward that goal, we hope that it’ll be very impactful for the people who use these routes.”
– Compiled by Brittany Bader
Twenty-three accessible bus pads were added to transit stops
in southeast Edina in 2024. View their locations and before-and-
after photos on a Google Map at EdinaMN.gov/BusPadProjectSE.
New Accessible Metro
Transit Bus Pad Locations
Before After
10 • ABOUT TOWN
City and School District
Experts Answer Tax-Increment
Financing Questions
Edina Public Schools Director of Finance & Operations Mert Woodard and City of Edina Economic Development Manager Bill Neuendorf give background on tax-increment financing (TIF) and its impact on schools.
What is TIF?
Neuendorf: TIF is a public financing mechanism that is used in nearly every state of the United States. TIF uses the newly created taxes from a specific property to pay for a portion of the cost to construct the building and related infrastructure. TIF is used for public benefits in lieu of increases to the traditional property tax levy.
How much financing is provided with TIF?
Neuendorf: TIF can only be used when the project would not go forward without such financing. We call that the “but for test.” In Edina, the TIF contribution is limited to the value of public benefits delivered by the project that are required but otherwise unfunded by the owner and mortgage lender.
What is a TIF district?
Neuendorf: State law requires that a city define the geographic boundaries where TIF will be used. This is called a “TIF Financing District.” The goals, time limits and amount of new property taxes anticipated to be collected within the district are identified in a “TIF Financing Plan” that is approved in Edina by the Edina Housing & Redevelopment Authority (HRA) and City Council. Before the Council and HRA approve the TIF Plan, input is solicited from the School District, Hennepin County and general public. It takes two to three months of public review before a TIF district is created.
How does TIF work?
Neuendorf: The new property taxes created within a TIF district are used to make payments on bonds, loans, pledges or other debt issued by the City to support the development goals identified when the TIF district was established. The revenue is created when the new property taxes, paid by a completed project, exceed the former property taxes paid from that site. The difference between the old and new tax amounts are considered “incremental” taxes. The original amount of taxes, also known as the “base,” remains available to support the City, County, schools and other taxing jurisdictions that provide services to the property.
The “incremental” taxes are retained within the district and used to make payments on debt or pledges that were issued by the City. When the debt obligations are satisfied, the district can be de-certified and closed.
After the district is de-certified, the combined amount of taxes, base plus increment, are then distributed among all taxing agencies.
Why is it in the City’s interest to use TIF? Why does Edina use it?
Neuendorf: TIF is used to achieve development goals that are not funded by the regular tax levy. While the City’s share of taxes are kept “flat” in a TIF district for several years, the long-term benefit comes in the future after the district is de-certified. In matters of public financing and real estate development, the focus is on the long-term economic health of the community.
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 11
Some sites require extraordinary amounts of private investment to be successful. Some of these hurdles are due to the cost of demolishing old buildings, cleaning up environmental contamination, installing new roadways and utilities, relocating or repairing existing utilities and high costs to satisfy local regulations.
What is the financial impact to the government taxing agencies when TIF is used?
Neuendorf: The tax laws in Minnesota are based on each government agency setting a levy amount each year that is then divided amongst all taxpayers within the jurisdictional boundaries of that agency. Whether or not a TIF district is created, each agency will collect the amount of funding that is levied.
What is the impact of TIF on schools?
Neuendorf: The use of TIF has a negligible impact on school districts. In Edina, the City strives to use TIF in a manner that has a net positive impact to the school districts. The laws governing TIF are arranged to allow school districts to collect a limited amount of additional revenue from a TIF district immediately. The full amount of the incremental tax base will be available in the long term after the TIF district is de-certified.
How many TIF districts does Edina have right now?
Neuendorf: Edina currently has 11 active TIF districts, with a 12th district expected to be certified later in 2025. About 1% of the City’s total tax base is included within these TIF districts. Out of the five school districts that provide educational services to properties in Edina, only the Edina and Richfield school districts have TIF districts within their service boundaries.
How does TIF impact Edina Public Schools?
Woodard: TIF districts don’t negatively impact school funding in Minnesota in a material way. Schools receive their funding primarily based on student enrollment, not property values. TIF districts do not take money away from the schools, but they don’t make a huge positive financial impact on us much, either.
During the years that a TIF district is capturing increment to repay debt obligations, the impacted school district is gaining a little in property taxes compared to before the TIF district was created. But after the TIF debt is paid off and the district is de-certified, the full increase in property tax value is available to the City, County and school district. That’s when TIF potentially produces a significant long-term benefit – the additional net tax capacity created spreads the school district’s levy across more properties, and, all else being equal, suppresses increases felt by individual property owners.
How does the City and Edina Public Schools work together on planning and development matters?
Woodard: Staff from the City and Edina Schools meet regularly to share information about upcoming projects and enrollment projections. The school district and the City have used a demographer named Hazel Reinhardt for many years and many other school districts have also used her to understand how new development can potentially change the future enrollment in the schools. Back in 2019, she did an analysis on high-density housing and determined the newer apartment buildings really don’t yield school-aged children. Since the schools don’t receive a lot of kids from these new apartments, we’re not really concerned about their impact.
(continued on next page)
12 • ABOUT TOWN
Neuendorf: Whenever the City is considering using TIF, we bring that to the attention of school district staff early. We also formally provide a preliminary draft of the proposed TIF Financing Plan so they can see the financial projections.
How are the meetings between the City and Edina Public Schools beneficial?
Woodard: The City and Edina Schools have open communication throughout the year. The public meetings are important for our residents to understand how TIF really works and its small impact on school finances. Some residents think TIF is taking money away from school districts, which is not true. Then there are other residents who may think that those properties or those developers should find alternative ways of financing or not happen at all, which is a different conversation. But in terms of the school district, we are perfectly comfortable with how the City is operating, and we don’t feel like the school district is being left out of the discussion.
Do you have any other thoughts on TIF districts and how they impact the schools?
Woodard: We appreciate that the City staff approaches us about what’s potentially going in and where it’s going, so we can plan for that. For example, maybe there’s going to be changes in traffic patterns, or maybe it is a type of housing that will yield students that we need to prepare for. Other than that, we don’t have major concerns.
Are there examples of the use of TIF that benefit the City and schools?
Neuendorf: There are multiple examples in Edina where the use of TIF has provided both short-term and long-term fiscal benefits to the school districts. Here are three:
Centennial Lakes TIF District (1988 to 2013) – The City used TIF to redevelop the former gravel pit into a vibrant part of the community that features housing, professional and medical offices, retail and a public park as well as roads, utilities and trails. During the period that the incremental property taxes were captured in the TIF District, the tax base increased by 1,560%. After decertification, the tax capacity available to City, County and Richfield Schools increased from $229,691 to $3,581,728.
Grandview #1 TIF District (1984 to 2013) – The City also used TIF to assemble aging industrial properties and redevelop this area with new multi-family housing, professional offices, retail expansion, public park, land for public library and senior center, and public parking garage. During the period that the incremental property taxes were captured and used to repay debt obligations, the tax base within the TIF District increased by 3,440%. After decertification, the tax capacity available to City, County and Edina Schools increased from $22,872 to $787,409.
50th & France #2 TIF District (2020 to 2045) – More recently, the City used TIF to revitalize tax-exempt and under-used properties along Market Street in the 50th & France District. Using TIF, the City was able to nearly double the amount of public parking in the North Ramp without increasing the property tax levy. TIF was also used to support the construction of the Nolan Mains apartments with additional public parking incorporated below ground surrounded by new public plazas and walkways.
By returning this tax-exempt property to the tax rolls, all government agencies were able to benefit from this land immediately. The annual tax dollars collected by
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 13
the City, County and Schools (even with a TIF District in place) increased from $0 to $21,646, $27,648 and $166,282, respectively. After the TIF debt obligations are repaid with incremental taxes, the full value within the District will be available to the taxing agencies. To date, the taxable value of this land has increased from $0 to $889,934.
For more information on Tax Increment Financing
and how it impacts the school districts in Edina,
visit EdinaMN.gov/TIF.
– Compiled by Lauren Siebenaler
Maison Green Apartments in the Eden Willson District
The Eden Willson District provides a current example of how the use of tax-increment financing (TIF) can deliver both short- and
long-term benefits to the broad Edina community. The percentages change each year, but the bar graph shows the trend when
old commercial properties are converted to new multi-family properties even with TIF.
$0 $20,000 $40,000 $60,000 $80,000
State & Fiscal Disparities Program $0
$51,635.22
Edina Public Schools
$18,175.54
$79,073.66
City of Edina
$11,094.44
$50,522.86
Hennepin County
$15,498.58
$64,530.63
Misc Agencies
$2,714.52
$10,763.43
Distribution of $99,118 Property Taxes - Pay 2022(before conversion to multi-family)Distribution of $204,891 Property Taxes - Pay 2024(after conversion to multi-family with TIF)
14 • ABOUT TOWN
Get to Know the New Fire
Station 2
The City is building a new Fire Station 2 to better serve the future safety needs of Edina. The new facility will replace the outdated facility on York Avenue. A study determined that the current location is not large enough to provide the level of services needed in the southeast quadrant of the community in the future. The parcel of land the current station is on is too small to build the size of a modern facility.
After a vigorous process to consider various locations, land was acquired in the Greater Southdale District by the City in 2022. The former building on the site was demolished in 2023. Construction on the new Fire Station 2 began in May 2024 and is expected to be complete later this year. Work on the interior will be underway all winter.
Cost: $24.1 million
Location: 4401 W. 76th St.
Contact: Derik Otten, Facilities Manager, 952-826-0356 or DOtten@EdinaMN.gov
Building features:
Training Tower
Main Level
• Community/training room with seating for up to 48
• Exercise room for firefighters and City staff
• Truck apparatus bay
• Turnout Gear storage room
• Offices
• Firefighter workspace
• Public Health staff workspace
• Two conference rooms
Upper Level
• Firefighter living-quarters (day room, kitchen and dining, individual rooms)
Working there:
Paramedic/Firefighters and Public Health Division staff
Number of staff:
• Fire Department: 4 Paramedic/Firefighters each day
• Public Health Division: 7 full-time staff members
As the Station becomes operational, likely in early 2026, staff will evaluate call volume and crew assignments to ensure ambulances and engines are assigned to the appropriate station based on call history and volume.
Meeting rooms:
• Conference room for seating for 21
• Public meeting conference room with seating for about 100
Meeting rooms will be available for the community to use.
Fun facts:
• Building will have two fire poles
• Plans call for the eventual installation of public art
For more information and project updates, visit
BetterTogetherEdina.org/Fire-Station-2.
– Compiled by Kate Heimel
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 15 Photo by Zuly MarquezScan QR Code to view
construction time lapse
16 • ABOUT TOWN
New Laws and Changes in 2024
By Jacey Mismash
The Edina City Council approved a total of 11 ordinances in 2024.
Of these, two ordinances were for the zoning and regulation for cannabis businesses. See details on Page 28.
Other ordinances included updates to the following: yearly changes in fee schedules, areas of the City Code regarding the Heritage Preservation Commission and Edina Heritage Landmarks, addition of a new Planned Unit Development and regulations of efficient building benchmarking.
Several more complex ordinances, highlighted below, were also enacted.
Effective April 16, 2024, the City of Edina approved an ordinance amending Chapter 36, Article I of the City Code. This amendment allows residents to build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on properties with a single-family home.
The ordinance outlines setbacks, area and height restrictions for attached, detached and in-home ADUs, as well as special requirements and considerations.
Considering building an ADU on your single-dwelling property? Here are some things you should know:
• Only one ADU is allowed per lot.
• ADUs must have a separate entrance from that of the principal building.
• Residents can rent ADUs. However, it may not be rented at the same time as the principal building, nor can it be rented for short-term stays, such as an Airbnb or VRBO.
• Owners must obtain a rental license prior to renting an ADU. Applications can be found online at EdinaMN.gov/RentalHousing.
• ADUs cannot be sold separately from the principal dwelling.
To learn more about specific requirements for ADUs
and to find any relevant applications prior to building,
visit EdinaMN.gov/ADU.
Effective June 4, 2024, amendments were made to Chapter 10, Article III of the Edina City Code. Here’s what you need to know:
• A definition for “unbuilt lot” was added to the City Code: an existing or newly created lot with a unique address that has not had a primary residential structure.
• Protected and Heritage trees can now be removed without mitigation on unbuilt lots as long as they are within certain areas:
ORDINANCE NO. 2024-02:
Accessory Dwelling Units ORDINANCE NO. 2024-04:
Amendment to the Tree
Protection Ordinance
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 17
• Within a 10-foot radius of the building pad, patio, deck and infrastructure improvements.
• Within a 5-foot radius of the driveway.
• Tree surveys required are for new home construction permits over $500,000 and any home project valued over $100,000 and must be completed by a Certified Arborist from the International Society of Arboriculture.
• Residents are allotted up to $2,500 from the City to pay for the tree survey, deducted from the applicant’s escrow.
• Tree replacement can now be fulfilled by planting trees at a different location than the property. City staff controls the location and species of tree planted.
• Release of the second half of the financial guarantee has been reduced from 36 months to 12 months after issuance of the certificate of occupancy (so long as all requirements are met).
The City is considering additional changes to the tree
protection ordinance. To learn more about the specifics
of the ordinance, visit EdinaMN.gov/TreeProtection.
Effective Jan. 1, 2025, Chapter 2, Article III, Division 2 establishing the Human Rights & Relations Commission was removed from the Edina City Code.
This change was requested by members of the Human Rights & Relations Commission. Going into 2025, the Human Rights & Engagement Task Force will take over and reshape many of the duties previously performed by the commission.
By operating as an ad hoc task force, members of the Human Rights & Engagement Task Force will have more flexibility on projects and more opportunities for community engagement.
Members of the former commission are serving on the task force. Community members are encouraged to attend and participate in task force meetings and discussions to help shape how equity and engagement efforts will look for the City of Edina.
To learn more about the task force, visit EdinaMN.gov/HRE.
For more information about ordinances,
scan the QR code to view the City
Code, or contact City Clerk
Sharon Allison, 952-826-0408
or sallison@EdinaMN.gov.File PhotoORDINANCE NO. 2024-11:
Removal of Human Rights & Relations
Commission From City Code
18 • ABOUT TOWN
Trail Openings Highlight Park
and Arena Projects
By Debbie Townsend
Major improvements and new amenities at Edina Parks & Recreation facilities are opening or in progress, thanks to funding from a half-cent sales tax approved by Edina voters in November 2022.
Sales Tax Collection
2023: $5.5 million
2024 (through November): $5.9 million
A University of Minnesota study estimated that more than half the sales tax revenue will come from people who live outside Edina but spend money in the city. The guaranteed revenue source allows the City to proceed on the projects rather than wait for the entire project amount. The sales tax money can only be spent on these projects.
Braemar Park
Budget from sales tax: $8.1 million
Highlights of planned improvements:
• New hiking, mountain biking and cross-country ski trails
• Pickleball courts
• Courtney Fields baseball complex improvements
• Playground at Courtney Fields
• Natural resource restoration
Completed in 2024
Buckthorn Removal
Massive sections of invasive buckthorn were removed from the northwest, southwest and eastern sections of 500-acre Braemar Park and hauled away or burned to make way for trails.
Mountain Biking Trails
More than six miles of single-track trails, from basic segments to intermediate and advanced jump lines, opened for use in summer 2024 in the northwest, southwest and east sections. These are Edina’s first mountain biking trails.
The trails were an instant hit in the mountain biking community and serve as a practice area for the Edina Mountain Bike Team, the official riding team for Edina middle schools and high school. The high schoolers won the 2024 state championship, and the middle school team was state runner-up.
Riders began posting videos within days of the opening. They describe the trails as “sweet,” “awesome,” “fantastic” and other accolades. “This is going to be one of the best flow trails in Minnesota,” declared mountain bike builder and rider Matt Desmond in a ride video posted on YouTube.
Trail maintenance is done by Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists (MORC), an all-volunteer group that also provides updates on trail status.
“The feedback has been very positive,” said Park Planner Rachel Finberg. “People love it. They have really gotten out there and rode a lot.”
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 19
Hiking/Snowshoeing Trails
More than two miles of soft-surface trails with sections that can be looped together opened in 2024.
The trails offer a walk through the woods with elevation gain/loss, especially on the east side.
In winter snow, the hiking trails offer a great opportunity for snowshoeing.
These natural trails are not groomed, so hikers are advised to be prepared for mud, ice or snow, depending on the weather.
Cross-Country Skiing Trails
Sales tax revenue paid for a Kubota Utility Vehicle, which looks like a cross between a golf cart and ATV, and a 72-inch Sno-Master groomer that will be used in combination to carve the cross-country ski trails atop Braemar Golf Course. In summer, the utility vehicle is used for course maintenance, according to Golf Course Superintendent Jeff Mold.
The two-mile loop of trails will be tested when there is enough snow. Depending on user feedback and maintenance, the trail layout might be modified in future winters.
(continued on next page)Photo by Dan CarpenterThe Braemar Park Mountain Bike Trails feature six miles of
trails with easy, intermediate and advanced sections.
Trail Status and Details
EdinaMN.gov/Braemar Trails
20 • ABOUT TOWN
Expected Work in 2025
Courtney Fields
• Finish installation of safety netting that will replace chain link for better viewing, extended foul line protection and overall improved safety.
• New playground near the fields.
South Trails
• Trail construction will begin in the south end of the park, connecting the southwest and east segments.
• The biking and hiking/walking trails in this section will be next to each other but delineated with a natural/dirt surface for bikers and aggregate for walkers.
• This work takes longer due to a required bridge and the trails traveling through sensitive wetland areas.
General Park
• Arbor Day Celebration April 25 to plant more than 300 trees at Braemar Park. More details to be announced on City social media and EdinaMN.gov.
• Nature restoration.
• New plantings.
• Designs of other elements.
“At Braemar Park, we’ve done installation and design work that was shovel-ready,” Finberg said. “For the rest of the components of that master plan, we have been working with designers to make sure our budget is maximized and we get as much out of that taxpayer money as we can.”
Follow the Project
Visit EdinaMN.gov/BraemarParkPhoto by Jacey MismashMost pieces of the new playground for Courtney Fields, near
the baseball fields, are on site but some aren’t safely anchored
yet. Final installation and opening is expected this spring.Photo by Jacey MismashNew netting for the 2025 season will improve spectator views
and safety at the Courtney Fields baseball complex.
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 21
Fred Richards Park
Budget from sales tax: $17.7 million
Highlights of planned improvements:
• Pickleball and basketball courts
• Lawn games area
• Inclusive playground
• Clubhouse renovation
• Nature restoration
• New trails
Completed in 2024
Park Designs Updated
The original designs in the 2017 Fred Richards Park Master Plan were updated with community input via an open house.
“We had to move features around and change things,” Finberg said. “The original master plan wasn’t necessarily feasible because it didn’t have to look at soils and water impacts and flood zones.” Its designs were also based on 2017 costs.
Architect Hired
OPN Architects will design a remodel of the old golf course clubhouse building and a new building. Year-round restrooms and space for Parks & Recreation programs will be in the designs.
Expected Work in 2025
Playground Design
A new playground with inclusive features will be designed with input from people who have or work with children of varying abilities. Construction at the south end of the park near new parking and a new access road will likely start in 2026 due to required soil work.
Earthwork
Expect to see lots of heavy machinery moving soils. Rather than do each project or section individually, much of the earthwork will be done at once for efficiency and cost savings. “We’ll see a lot of land shaping and movement,” Finberg said.
Building 43 acres full of amenities plus nature restoration from essentially scratch requires a lot more preparation and coordination than the Braemar Park work. In Braemar Park’s 500 acres, projects are so distant from each other they can be done one at a time. “Fred Richards Park has so many moving parts, and we couldn’t take them apart because they have to be unified or we would be wasting money tearing up work already done,” Finberg said.
Moving into 2026, the area will start to look more like a park and less like the former golf course land it’s being created on, Finberg said.
(continued on next page)
Follow the Project
Visit EdinaMN.gov/FRPFile PhotoThe former golf course clubhouse will undergo a major renovation
as new restrooms, an updated space for park programs and other
services for Fred Richards Park visitors will be added.
22 • ABOUT TOWN
Braemar Arena
Budget from sales tax: $45.2 million
Highlights of planned improvements
• New indoor ice rink
• Expanded and remodeled lobby
• Safety improvements to pickup/drop-off area
• Expanded parking
• Modernized rink cooling, HVAC and other infrastructure
• Improved locker rooms and restrooms
Completed in 2024
Consultants Hired
JLG Architects, a nationally recognized leader in ice arena design, will provide design services and lead community engagement for the Arena expansion and improvements.
Real estate consultants The Tegra Group will serve as the owners’ representative to lead the project team.
Assessment Conducted
Apex has expertise in energy-efficient yet low maintenance ice rink operations. Apex assessed the entire arena, provided a roster of every system, its condition and what needs replacing, said Braemar Arena General Manager Jesse Buchholz.
“Energy consumption is a huge cost driver for ice arenas,” said Parks & Recreation Director Perry Vetter. Apex and JLG will help the arena meet State and City green requirements for a more sustainable building with lower operating costs.
User Needs Discussed
Buchholz, Vetter and JLG met with the top ice renters to discuss everything from locker rooms to games versus practices to ticketing for large events.
“The goal was to better understand how they use the building and what potential uses they have for a remodeled building,” Vetter said.
Expected in 2025
Community Engagement Plan
A schedule and methods for keeping the community up to date and gathering their feedback will be established and begin.
Decision on New Indoor Rink
JLG is studying and will recommend the best way to add a new indoor sheet of ice that considers cost and disruption of existing rinks.
Overall Design
Once community engagement gets under way, t he overall design of the arena remodel, including the new indoor rink, expanded lobby, remodeled lockers rooms and modern infrastructure, should be completed.
Staging Plan
Plans will be developed to keep the arena as operational as possible during the remodel. “Our goal is limit ice disruptions as much as possible. Once we have a finalized design, we will know more about the timing and schedule of work,” Vetter said. The staging is complex because it’s not only ice to consider but entry/exits, access to locker rooms and restrooms, and the ability to safely move around various sections of the arena.
Follow the Project
See the Expansion project link at BraemarArena.com
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 23
2024-2025 Budget Work Plan:
Year 1 Highlights Included Mental Health Service
Advancements, Continued Park Improvements
and Infrastructure Planning
By Brittany Bader
The 2024-2025 Budget Work Plan includes 14 projects across the City’s four budget pillars: Strong Foundation, Reliable Service, Livable City and Better Together.
Each two-year Budget Work Plan is developed by the City Council and staff to coincide with the operating budget and is guided by the City’s strategic plan “Vision Edina,” Comprehensive Plan and Capital Improvement Plan. Based on input from the community and staff, the City Council sets priorities that determine the focus for work and changes to operations for the two years. The top priorities for these two years are Maintenance & Preservation, Accessibility & Inclusion, and Flexibility for Future Use.
The City’s Budget Work Plan projects vary in size and scope. Some are large infrastructure projects that take years to plan and complete, while others, like an ordinance update, policy change or service improvement, can be completed in a year. The first year typically lays the foundation for work to be completed by the end of the second year.
(continued on next page)File PhotoLou joined the Edina Police Department in 2024 as a therapy
dog that will eventually provide emotional support services
to Police Department staff, and possibly the community in
the future. His handler is Detective Morgan Piper, a member
of the City’s new Alternative Response Team.
24 • ABOUT TOWN
One area of the plan with the biggest emphasis is Strong Foundation, which includes six of the 14 projects and covers infrastructure and facility upgrades like the voter-approved improvements at Braemar and Fred Richards parks, planning for a new Edina Art Center and future Fire Station 3, and street and sanitary sewer projects.
“In 2024, we made progress on the majority of the large-scale projects in the plan, including sanitary sewer projects and the local option sales tax improvements. We also worked on some smaller but impactful projects like mental health service advancements and the adoption of the Cannabis Ordinance,” said Assistant City Manager Ari Lenz. “In 2025, we will continue the large-scale infrastructure projects and work on smaller priorities like the Quality of Life Survey and evaluating community engagement methods.”Submitted IllustrationA new Edina Art Center that includes space for multiple art mediums and pottery for all ages continues being planned for the second
floor of the new Southdale Library building, set to open in 2027 at its current location, 7001 York Ave. S.File PhotoSafety upgrades at West 50th Street and Grange Road,
which included a new traffic signal system and two
additional crosswalks, were completed in fall 2024.
This project was paid for with tax-increment financing.
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 25
How to Follow Work
Plan Progress
To follow along with work plan progress, visit the City’s Progress Portal. The portal currently includes dashboards for the Budget Work Plan, Climate Action Plan, Race & Equity Plan, and Advisory Commission work plans.
“I encourage residents to check out the Progress Portal. It is a quarterly snapshot of where we are at with the priorities the City Council has laid out for the City. Sometimes, things don’t move as expected, but this is a great way to stay informed on top priorities,” said Lenz.
To view the Progress Portal for the Budget
Work Plan, visit Bit.ly/EdinaBudgetWorkPlan. File PhotoIn September 2024, the City celebrated the grand opening
of more than 6 miles of mountain biking trails and 2 miles
of hiking trails in Braemar Park.
(continued on next page)
Budget Pillars:
Strong Foundation
City infrastructure, facilities, technology and equipment meet community needs now and in the future.
Reliable Service
City services enhance the safety, wellbeing and quality of life experienced in Edina.
Livable City
City planning fosters healthy, connected, sustainable development that enriches the lives of current and future residents.
Better Together
City government fosters an inclusive, informed and engaged community.
26 • ABOUT TOWN
Cahill Industrial Area Sanitary Sewer Expansion
The sanitary sewer system in this area needs to be expanded because there is not capacity to support any increases in wastewater flows. Increases in wastewater flows come from changes in land use or development projects.
A contract was awarded for this project to engineering firm Bolton & Menk in December. The first phase of construction is scheduled for 2026 with other phases to be completed in 2028, or as budgets allow.
Fire Station 3 Planning
Planning for a potential Fire Station 3 in the northeast quadrant of Edina is in the preliminary stages.
One possibility under consideration is acquiring land near Edina City Hall from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) as part of the planned Vernon Avenue and Highway 100 Interchange Project. As part of the project, consolidating Highway 100 on- and off-ramps would create a parcel of land that could potentially be repurposed for municipal use. This parcel would be bordered by Vernon Avenue to the north, Grange Road to the east, Eden Avenue to the south, and Minnesota Highway 100 to the west. The City is continuing to explore this option with MnDOT.
Long-Term Art Center Plan
A long-term solution is needed for the Edina Art Center, which is currently operating with limited use of its main floor after building code deficiencies were identified in 2019. The City of Edina and Hennepin County have been partnering on plans to include the Edina Art Center on the second floor of the new Southdale Library. The new library building is set to open in 2027 at its current location, 7001 York Ave. S. Draft plans for the 18,000-square-foot Art Center include pottery spaces, a technology-focused makerspace, a roof terrace, a gallery, gift shop, gathering area and administrative offices. Since Hennepin County will own the building and the City would lease its space, this partnership offers significant cost efficiencies for the City. At press time, the Art Center part of the project was in the design development phase.
Project/Initiative Update Budget Pillar
Other Project Updates From the 2023-2024 Budget Work Plan
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 27
Project/Initiative Update Budget Pillar
Grandview Area Transportation Improvements
In 2023, two roundabouts were added along Eden Avenue, followed in 2024 by safety upgrades at West 50th Street and Grange Road that included a new traffic signal system and two additional crosswalks, new accessible pedestrian signals that provide audible crossing information, wide sidewalks, traffic medians and left turn lanes. This roadwork was funded with tax-increment financing.
The next project is the Vernon Avenue and Highway 100 Interchange Project, which includes the construction of two new bridges on Vernon Avenue; improving nearby intersections; and eliminating redundant Highway 100 access ramps in favor of a standard tight diamond interchange.
Park Improvements at Braemar and Fred Richards
In September 2024, the City celebrated the grand opening of hiking and mountain biking trails in Braemar Park, marking a major milestone in the $71 million of voter-approved improvements to Fred Richards and Braemar parks funded by a half-percent local option sales and use tax. An agreement was made with the nonprofit group Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists (MORC) to provide trail maintenance at no cost to the City and will be reviewed yearly for extension.
Upgrades were also added to Courtney Fields ahead of the 2025 baseball season, and design planning for Fred Richards Park reached 60% completion.
Read more about park progress and timelines on Pages 18-22.
York Avenue Sanitary Sewer Project
The sanitary sewer system in this area needs to be expanded because there is limited sanitary sewer capacity to support increases in wastewater flows. Increases in wastewater flows come from changes in land use or development projects. This is a continuation from projects completed in 2017 and 2019, with the next phase planned for construction in 2025. Future phases are tentatively planned in 2027 and 2029, or as budgets allow.
Staff has hired consultants to review using the current Fire Station 2 site at 7335 York Ave. for a water treatment plant. If the site is suitable, it might require adding watermain improvements to the project in 2025.
(continued on next page)
28 • ABOUT TOWN
Mental Health Service Advancements
The Alternative Response Team, a joint initiative by Hennepin County and the cities of Edina and Richfield, has been operating in a pilot phase since June 2024 to address the increasing number of mental health calls in the city.
The new team focuses on both responding to 911 calls from people in crisis and offering follow-up care with resources for long-term support.
At the end of 2024, the team included Paramedic/Firefighter John Brooks, Detective Morgan Piper and Hennepin County Social Worker Cassy Jerrett.
Future Election Administration Agreement with Edina Public Schools
The City of Edina administers elections in even-numbered years. Since the 1980s, Edina Public Schools has contracted with the City to conduct its elections during odd-numbered years. However, managing annual elections has grown increasingly time-intensive in recent years. To help use elections resources more effectively, Edina Public Schools adopted a resolution to move its elections to even-numbered years to align with the City’s schedule. 2026 will be the first year of synchronized elections.
THC/Cannabis Legislation Considerations
The State’s Office of Cannabis Management will begin issuing licenses in 2025. The City of Edina is required to allow one retail registration per every 12,500 residents. The City Council approved zoning ordinance amendments to allow for the minimum requirement of up to five cannabis retail registrations total for the city. The amendments require cannabis retailers be located only within existing Planned Commercial Districts, the same districts where tobacco and liquor stores are in Edina. Retailers must be at least 500 feet from schools, daycares and residential treatment facilities and may operate from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, processing, wholesaling, testing, transportation and delivery are restricted to Planned Industrial Districts and must occur within enclosed buildings.
Enhancing Social Support for Staff
Several initiatives have been put into place to help emotionally support employees after social disruption or traumatic events, including mental health check-up programs for Police Officers, 911 Dispatchers and Paramedic/Firefighters; de-escalation training; and evaluating and implementing mental health opportunities for Police Officers and Paramedic/Firefighters. A therapy dog, “Lou,” was donated to the Police Department by Heart of America Whoodles with training provided by Soldiers 6. Parks & Recreation has started work on a Safety and Security Blueprint for all staff, programming and facility offerings.
Project/Initiative Update Budget Pillar
COMPLETED
COMPLETED
COMPLETED
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 29
Project/Initiative Update Budget Pillar
Affordable Housing Advancement and Growth
In 2024, the City of Edina approved 209 new affordable housing units, bringing the total increase approved since 2020 to 586, or 32.5% of the Metropolitan Council’s goal of 1,804 units by 2030. In addition to new multifamily affordable apartments, the total number includes new affordable single-family houses, affordable ownership condominiums and preserved Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing.
Through partnerships with Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity and Homes Within Reach, three affordable single-family houses were added in 2024.
When completed, four in-progress development projects will expand affordable multifamily rental housing opportunities in the city. The Marriott Residence Inn redevelopment, 3400 Edinborough Way, will add 136 units; The Enclave, 7235 France Ave., will add 58 units; The Finch Apartments, 4600 and 4620 77th St., will add 28 units; and 7200 France Apartments, 7200 France Ave., will add 15 units.
Comprehensive Plan Update
Plans are being made to update the City’s zoning ordinance in 2025. Once this project is completed, work will begin on the Comprehensive Plan Update.
2025 Quality of Life Survey
In 2022, the City Council approved a contract for the 2025 Quality of Life Survey, which is done every two years. This survey asks residents to rate the quality of life in the City of Edina, as well as the quality of service delivery and overall workings of local government. The next survey, conducted by Polco, will be distributed to randomly selected households in spring 2025.
Refine Community Engagement Methods
The City is reviewing community engagement practices to focus on engagement opportunities outside of the Board and Commission process, including developing a municipal academy; intentionally engaging residents who rent their housing; and evaluating and refining the Volunteer Edina program.
The municipal academy will be the first action to be completed. Set to launch in April 2025, “Edina U: City Government 101” will welcome around 20 residents to learn about City departments and operations.
30 • ABOUT TOWN
City Trims 2025 Budget,
Starts Planning for 2026-2027
By Lauren Siebenaler
Approval of the City’s 2025 budget came down to the wire in late 2024, so leaders are working ahead of schedule to develop the next biennial budget.
The City has a two-year budget cycle. The years alternate focusing on the operating budget and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) processes. While both the operating budget and CIP are reviewed every year, the majority of the planning, focus and effort alternates.
During odd-numbered years, City staff focuses on the operating budget. The City Manager builds a budget based on goals set by the City Council. Typically in September, the City Council views the proposed budget and works with staff to approve or change the budget before final approval in December.
Read more to learn about the 2025 budget process and what City staff have in store for the 2026-2027 budget.
September 2024
City staff proposed a $206 million comprehensive budget for 2025 that prioritizes significant investments in public safety while still upholding high levels of City services across all departments.
The proposed budget would have required a $61.5 million tax levy, an increase of 13.14% from 2024.
• 5.46% was specifically to fund the expansion of public safety services.
• 7.68% was to cover City-wide operating costs, fund projects in the Capital Improvement Plan, support the Street Special Levy and update zoning ordinances.
December 2024
The City Council decided it was not comfortable with the 13.14% tax levy increase. Staff worked to reduce the budget.
The Council ultimately approved a $59 million tax levy, 8.44% levy increase, and accepted all of staff’s suggestions for budget reductions, including:
• Use cash reserves to pay for updating Edina’s zoning ordinance instead of levying for the expense
• Use cash reserves to pay for the design of a new Cold Storage Building for the Public Works Department instead of levying for the expense
• Use Public Safety Aid funding from the State to pay for some equipment for the Police Department
• Defer improvements to the shelter at Lewis Park to a future year
• Delay hiring new Paramedic/Firefighters until January 2026
• Reduce the General Fund by 1%
February 2025
The City Council approved a formal budget amendment at its Feb. 4 meeting, finalizing a General Fund levy of $47.3 million for 2025.
The approval included a spending reduction package totaling $545,000. Some of the items removed from the budget include a half-mile of the Public Works Department’s mill-and-overlay program, eliminating or delaying a revision of the Southdale District Design Guidelines, and reducing money allocated for equipment replacement. For the full list, view the meeting files for the Feb. 4 City Council meeting at EdinaMN.gov/Meetings.
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 31
“Another main challenge that we encountered during the 2025 budget process was the volume and cost of projects. We do not have the levy dollars available to fund these projects. I liken it to trying to fit a watermelon into a cantaloupe — not everything is going to fit,” said Finance Director Pa Thao. “And so the challenging part is having to consider all the different competing projects and prioritizing them. We are going to have to take a hard look at 2026 and 2027 as we build the next biennial budget.”
Planning for 2026-2027
The early 2026-2027 budget projections, with current service levels and planned projects, require a significant levy increase.
The Finance Department is leading the effort to get ahead in the budget planning process to examine all options for reducing those projections.
Starting in February, department directors began a series of presentations to the City Council about City services and how budget choices regarding revenues and spending impact service levels.
The City also has to plan for some major projects in the 2026-2027 budget process:
• Minnesota Highway 100 tight diamond interchange project, for which the first bond payment is due in 2026
• Edina Art Center relocation to space within the new Hennepin County Library
• Comprehensive Plan Update and the second part of the Zoning Code update
In this budget process, the City’s Capital Improvement Plan and equipment replacement plan will also be reviewed.
For more information on the City’s Finance Department,
visit EdinaMN.gov/Finance.
2026-2027 Budgeting Timeline
Dates are subject to change.
March 15: City Council discussion and Goal-Setting Retreat
May 6: Council work session review of budget and follow-up on projections from retreat
Aug. 19: 2026-2027 Budget presentation at Council work session
Sept. 2: 2026-2027 Budget discussion at Council work session
Sept. 16: Preliminary levy adoption at Council meeting
Dec. 2: Public hearing and possible adoption of the final 2026-2027 levy at Council meeting
Residents can attend work sessions and Council meetings to hear more about the budget process, or meeting recordings can be found online or through a podcast application. Visit EdinaMN.gov/Meetings for upcoming agendas and information.
Around October, residents will be able to provide input on the proposed 2026-2027 Budget on BetterTogetherEdina.org or in person at the December public hearing.
32 • ABOUT TOWN
The City of Edina received nearly $221,000 in donations in 2024 thanks to the generosity of numerous individuals and associations.
The Edina Police Department received the most from donors, with the total reaching $87,790.18. Of this amount, the largest donation was $20,000 from the Edina Crime Prevention Fund for seven new License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras.
“For many years, the Crime Prevention Fund has helped fund our K-9 program, covering all the training and ongoing costs, and bike and motorcycle extra patrols,” said Lt. Ryan Schultz of the other programs supported by the group.
The Crime Prevention Fund also made contributions to cover some expenses of the Police Department’s fall open house and the inaugural Public Safety Banquet to recognize Police and Fire department employees.
Others contributing $500 or more were:
• Dennis Schulstad – $29,500 for “Stealth,” a grey heron piece of artwork and installation, and $10,000 for landscaping, flowers and maintenance at Centennial Lakes Park
• Edina Crime Prevention Fund – $19,043.16 for proceeds of the Edina Fall into the Arts Festival at Centennial Lakes Park
• Pacy Erck – $14,000 for a new K-9 service dog and $2,600 for Braemar Memorial Fund
• Edina Community Foundation – $10,400 for the Connect Card Scholarship program and $2,587 to the Edina Police Community Impact Fund
• Soldier 6 – $10,000 for training the Police therapy dog, Lou, and handler, Detective Morgan Piper
• Rolling Green Neighborhood – $9,450 for LPR cameras
• Friends of the Edina Library – $8,000 to the Edina Senior Center for general use and $1,600 for books distributed at the Juneteenth celebration
• Edina Baseball Association – $4,329 for fence toppers at Countryside Park ballfields
• Annette Viens and Mick Elder – $3,200 for a bench at Centennial Lakes Park
• Peter & David Budge and Kirsten Strobel – $3,200 for a bench at Centennial Lakes Park
• Rene Chang – $3,200 for a memorial bench at Centennial Lakes Park
• Jackie Holewinski – $3,200 for a bench at Centennial Lakes Park
• Wenzhong Jin – $3,200 for a bench at Bredesen Park
• Catherine Lanman – $3,200 for a bench at Centennial Lakes Park
• Tom Matson – $3,200 for a memorial bench at Rosland Park
• Kari Molhoek – $3,200 for bench at Pamela Park
• Bruce Purnell – $3,200 for a bench at Centennial Lakes Park
• Mary Rossing – $3,200 for a bench at Centennial Lakes Park
• Betsy Schneider – $3,200 for a bench at Walnut Ridge Park
Donors Focus on Safety
and Parks in 2024
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 33
• Kay Zuccaro – $3,200 for a bench at Centennial Lakes Park
• Heart of America Whoodles – $2,600 for Police therapy dog, Lou
• Jeff Moore – $1,600 for Braemar Memorial Fund
• 2nd Swing – $1,600 for Braemar Memorial Fund
• Andy Warczak – $1,500 for two spaded trees at York Park
• Kowalski’s – $1,500 for 10 Multi-Cultural Advisory meetings
• Richard and Judy Krzyzek – $1,045 for Braemar Memorial Fund
• Joe Brennan – $1,000 for Braemar Memorial Fund
• Michele and Andy Herring Family Fund of the Minneapolis Foundation – $1,000 to Edina Art Center for general use
• Dan Latham and Dianne Plunkett Latham – $885 for City Forester’s fund to plant Zone 5 trees in City parks
• Dana and James Arnold – $700 for two trees at Utley Park
Donations to the City of Edina are tax deductible. For more
information on donating to the City, contact City Clerk
Sharon Allison at 952-826-0408.
– Compiled by Kate Heimel Photo by Michelle TannerPictured by “Stealth” are Centennial Lakes Park General Manager
Tiffany Bushland, artist Annie Mariano and Dennis Schulstad.
Schulstad donated the artwork, which was installed at
Centennial Lakes Park in September 2024.
34 • ABOUT TOWN
Landmark Public Safety
Complex Celebrates 20 Years –
And New Investments
By David Katz
First responders everywhere grapple with a perennial challenge: preparing for the unknown. Each day on the job brings potential for an almost endless variety of emergency situations – many with life and death weighing in the balance. That inescapable fact underscores the need for regular, rounded and realistic officer training.
Police officers and firefighters in Edina enjoy a leg up in this regard thanks to a versatile facility in our own backyard: the South Metro Public Safety Training Facility (SMPSTF). Tucked between Braemar Park and U.S. Highway 169, this 3.5-acre campus at 7525 Braemar Blvd. recently celebrated a milestone anniversary.
Precursor: Wippermann Memorial Gun Range
SMPSTF opened its doors in 2004, but this property’s association with safety training stretches back far longer. From 1971 to 1997, the Brian Wippermann Memorial Gun Range occupied the site.
Local philanthropists and civic boosters Fred and Sylvia Wippermann jumpstarted the private/public partnership that enabled construction of this City-owned shooting range. They marshalled donations in memory of their 12-year-old son, Brian, who died in a tragic duck hunting accident in 1964. As a lasting legacy to their child and the sport he loved, the Wippermanns envisioned a place where generations of young people could learn the principles of gun safety.
In its quarter-century of operation, Edina’s gun range logged well over 50,000 use sessions: not just from students, but hobbyists and law enforcement as well. While valued by these groups, a bleak financial forecast – stagnant revenue coupled with cost-prohibitive renovation needs – forced its permanent closure in June 1997.
‘Supply and Demand’ Dilemma
The Edina Police Department, like policing agencies everywhere, requires its officers to undertake annual training and routine firearms practice. Until its closure, the Brian Wippermann Memorial Gun Range offered a convenient location to check off some of these training and recertification requirements. After it shuttered, the Edina Police Department had no choice but to send officers farther afield for these needs – often an expensive endeavor in terms of facility fees, mileage and overtime pay. File PhotoTucked between Braemar Park and U.S. Highway 169, the South
Metro Public Safety Training Facility spans 3.5 acres.
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 35
Firefighters faced a similar set of challenges. In 2003, the U.S. Fire Administration authored a report identifying a lack of “safe, effective and realistic firefighter training” as a serious impediment to most of the nation’s nearly 30,000 fire departments.
By that point, though, the Edina Police and Fire departments did not need federal studies to appreciate the pinch point. In fact, they were already doing something about it.
A Forward-Thinking Solution
In 2001, the City of Edina entered into a joint powers agreement (JPA) with the City of Bloomington, City of Eden Prairie and the Metropolitan Airports Commission to co-fund a sustainable solution to their mutual first responder training needs.
While ambitious, the project was not without precedent. In 1992, the City of Maple Grove partnered with the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office to finance and construct a dynamic, 22,000-square-foot hub: the North Metro Regional Public Safety Training Facility (NMRPSTF).
Looking to replicate that success, Edina and its partners tapped NMRPSTF architect Roger Erickson to advise on project feasibility and site selection. Braemar Park emerged as the ideal place due to factors including ease of access (right off Interstate Highways 169 and 494) and favorable topography (hills and forested buffer areas to “shelter from unnecessary public exposure”).
Erickson collaborated on a master plan for the former Brian Wippermann Memorial Gun Range site dominated
visually by a seven-story fire tower. Built from precast concrete, this structure is used to simulate the wide array of inferno scenarios that firefighters might encounter in the field.
This earliest design also provisioned for other key features of the SMPSTF as it still looks today: classroom spaces for group instruction (including one named in memory of Brian Wippermann) and an indoor firing range with a maximum range of 25 yards. Outdoor features included a K-9 training ground and agility course, as well as ample parking to prevent encroachment into the lot needed for nearby Braemar Arena.
(continued on next page)File PhotoThe SMPSTF sits on the site of the former Brian Wippermann
Memorial Gun Range and inherited its commitment to public
gun safety.
36 • ABOUT TOWN
For most communities, building and operating state-of-the-art facilities like the SMPSTF represents a significant and impractical expense. That’s a major reason for the “supply and demand” gap that so vexed Edina’s police and fire forces before 2004.
Cost-sharing is the chief benefit of a joint powers arrangement. At the onset, the City of Edina and its three partners landed on an arrangement deemed equitable and viable for all parties. SMPSTF Executive Director Bob Slater explains the relationship as follows: “Our formula is based on full-time employee equivalent, or ‘FTE,’ calculations. Edina, like the others, is assessed a fee based on the size of their police and fire [departments].” Different rates apply to fire and police, and the formulation also factors for part-time employees. File PhotoThe campus is dominated visually by a seven-story fire tower.
Built from precast concrete, this structure is used to simulate
the wide array of inferno scenarios that firefighters might
encounter in the field.
Safety First – You Can Breathe Easy
At first glance, a gun range presents as a simple enough building filled mostly with “empty space.” However, an Environmental Protection Agency- and OSHA-compliant indoor range like that maintained at the South Metro Public Safety Training Facility brings fairly complex upkeep needs. Spent ammunition generates lead slugs and airborne particulate that, when left unaddressed, can easily accumulate to the point where it is harmful to humans.
Architect Roger Erickson’s plan for the Braemar complex called for cleanable bullet traps constructed from ground-up tires fronted by steel. This solution simplifies the collection of spent bullets. Equally important is a sophisticated ventilation system to purify the air in this enclosed space – one of the more expensive fixtures in the entire campus design. In the words of current Executive Director Bob Slater: “Our air filtration system is the Cadillac version … about the best you’ll find anywhere.”
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 37
The State of Minnesota provided a $500,000 grant to help defray initial construction costs. Since State law requires that a “political subdivision,” rather than a JPA, take receipt of such funds, the four partners appointed the City of Edina as the project’s fiscal agent. It remains so today, with the facility’s staff employed through the City providing vital administrative and budgeting support behind the scenes.
(continued on next page)File PhotoThe facility’s versatile spaces include an 1,100-square-foot
defensive tactics gym (often called simply the “mat room”).
The Metropolitan Airports Commission
A relationship between the cities of Edina, Bloomington and Eden Prairie makes intuitive sense. These neighboring communities all maintain municipal police, fire and EMS services, but none is large enough to justify the cost of a standalone enterprise on par with the South Metro Public Safety Training Facility.
At first pass, the facility’s fourth co-owner, the Metropolitan Airports Commission, would seem to be the outlier. However, while not a city per se, “the MAC” orchestrates public safety on a scale that rivals most. MSP International Airport, which saw 34.7 million passengers in 2023, is patrolled by about 130 sworn officers. Most of their responsibilities, ranging from roadway traffic control to narcotics investigations, are common to law enforcement generally.
MAC’s participation in the SMPSTF joint venture differs in one key respect, however. Although the organization maintains a separate firefighting and rescue force, these first responders encounter vehicles, aviation propellants and emergency situations not seen outside of an airport setting. They instead receive training at a specialized facility in Carlton, Minnesota. MAC’s contributions to the SMPSTF’s upkeep and annual operating budget reflect this.
38 • ABOUT TOWN
Balancing the books is made easier thanks to steady rental revenue. When not needed by the co-owners, SMPSTF amenities are made available to a variety of law enforcement agencies and civilian groups. These range from federal agencies like the Department of Justice and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to local self-defense teachers specializing in everything from concealed carry permits to krav maga.
SMPSTF also opens its 14 shooting lanes to the public every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. “We are proud to honor the Wippermanns’ original vision for a place to learn about and practice with firearms safely,” Slater explained. Safety precautions include trained safety officers who circulate whenever the range is open to the general public.
Innovations and Investments
SMPSTF looks different today than it did 20 years ago – but so does the work of first responders. Police training today places a renewed emphasis on crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques. Firefighters, for their part, benefit tremendously from drones, enhanced EMS field equipment, plus varied virtual and augmented training tools.
Investments in the SMPSTF have kept pace with such trends.
In 2011, the co-owners pooled $550,000 toward “flashover burners” in the fire tower. Located in a second-floor hallway and in a model bedroom on the sixth floor, these devices allow fire departments to accurately mimic the conditions encountered across a wide spectrum of fire-and-rescue scenarios. (Project leaders had wanted
flashover burners included as part of the original design, but ultimately deemed them too expensive.)
In 2014, the multi-jurisdictional board responsible for the facility approved conversion of a 28-person classroom into a tech-rich, interactive firearms training simulator. Next came a new 100-person classroom and enlarged common space at the front of the facility, approved by the board in November 2015. The City of Edina’s commitment toward the latter project came to just under $185,000, a contribution calculated from a combined EPD and EFD roster of 90 FTE at that time.
Equally popular today is a defensive tactics gym (often called simply the “mat room”), a 1,100-square-foot Submitted IllustrationWork is underway on a versatile tactical training center. This
5,536-square-foot addition will allow police trainers to simulate
a variety of public safety scenarios – even ones involving up to
three vehicles.
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 39
padded space ideal for police officers to master safe arrest techniques and for martial arts experts to teach the public self-defense tactics.
Co-Owners Greenlight ‘Tactical’ Move
Multipurpose, multijurisdictional training centers are not as rare as they once were. In addition to the facilities in Edina and Maple Grove, campuses of this kind can now also be found in Maplewood and Jordan. Even so, Slater is confident that the SMPSTF will remain a “destination facility” for first responders across Minnesota and even beyond. That’s because the co-owner agencies are currently embarking on the largest expansion to date: a 5,536-square-foot tactical training center.
This new L-shaped structure will anchor the south end of the property, replacing the K-9 agility course. Its dominant features include garage doors on either end and an interior mezzanine overlooking an open floorplan. The available 150 mobile panels can be used to divide the space into numerous configurations.
When it opens in 2025, the new addition will allow police trainers to simulate any number of neutralize- and-arrest scenarios, simulated building searches, and even traffic enforcement situations (complete with up to three vehicles).
Two $1 million grants from the State of Minnesota are underwriting upfront construction costs. As is the case throughout the SMPSTF campus, the co-owning agencies will subsidize ongoing operation and maintenance expenses.
By this point, there is no doubt that this public safety investment is paying big dividends. In 2024 alone, Edina Fire Department personnel recorded 584 hours of training and practice. Edina Police Officers logged an astounding 8,621 hours!
Sources referenced for this story include archived City
Council and Planning Commission meeting minutes; Capital
Improvement Plans; and public newsletters maintained by
the cities of Bloomington, Edina and Eden Prairie, as well as
documents maintained by the Minnesota Department of
Public Safety and Minnesota Legislative Reference Library.File PhotoEdina’s first responders logged more than 9,000 collective
hours at the South Metro Public Safety Training Facility in 2024.
40 • ABOUT TOWN
The Last Word
Since it is an annual report, most of About Town is about the year in review. My column each year is about the year ahead. 2025 is going to be a very busy year, especially when it comes to planning and building public facilities.
One of our major investments in 2024 that will continue into 2025 is the construction of the new Fire Station 2. The new station will enable our Fire Department to better serve the emergency response needs of the community. It will be an attractive and functional building that will serve Edina residents well into the future. If all goes according to plan, the new station should be ready to occupy by the close of 2025 or early 2026.
Another exciting facility upgrade that will advance to the planning and approval stages this year is the construction of Hennepin County’s new Southdale Regional Library. The current building will be razed and removed. The new library will be built closer to the intersection of York Avenue and 70th Street.
As it is today, the library will be built and operated by Hennepin County. What’s particularly exciting about this project is that the County wants to build additional space into its plans for the City to use as a new site for the Edina Art Center. The building that currently houses our Art Center is no longer appropriate for regular public use. A new Library/Art Center, which will include a large nature area, is going to be a beautiful new addition to the city!
Another project that will be solidly in the planning stages this year is the redevelopment of Braemar Arena. The current plan is to add an additional sheet of indoor ice and make improvements to almost every corner of the current arena. Edina residents approved just over $45 million in local sales tax revenue to fund this project. Staging the project is going to be challenging, but the end result is going to be worth it.
Finally, a large park construction project that is currently in the planning stages will advance to the construction stages in 2025. That project is the redevelopment of the old Fred Richards Golf Course into the new Fred Richards Park. The park will be just over 40 acres. It will have some play areas, but it’s going to be a showcase of natural resources that will continue to be bisected by the Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail. We are expecting this project to cost around $18 million. Edina residents also approved a referendum to use local sales taxes to fund this project.
Keeping Edina’s public parks and facilities in good working order is one of the city government’s most important duties. The decisions about what to improve or replace and how to pay for it all is difficult. Those decisions require patience and compromise. Residents will soon see the fruits of those discussions and decisions in 2025 and beyond.
Scott H. NealCity Manager
2024 ANNUAL REPORT • 41
City Of Edina Facilities
Edina City Hall, 4801 W. 50th St. 952-927-8861
Edina Aquatic Center, 4300 W. 66th St. 952-833-9560
Edina Art Center, 4701 W. 64th St. 952-903-5780
Braemar Arena, 7501 Ikola Way 952-833-9500
Braemar Field, 7501 Ikola Way 952-833-9515
Braemar Golf Course, 6364 John Harris Drive 952-903-5750
Braemar Golf Dome, 7420 Braemar Blvd. 952-903-5775
Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S. 952-833-9580
Edina Liquor – 50th & France, 3943 50th St. 952-903-5720
Edina Liquor – Grandview, 5013 Vernon Ave. 952-903-5740
Edina Liquor – Southdale, 6755 York Ave. S. 952-903-5730
Edina Senior Center, 5280 Grandview Square 952-833-9570
Edinborough Park, 7700 York Ave. S. 952-833-9540
Fire Station No. 1, 6250 Tracy Ave. 952-826-0330
Fire Station No. 2, 7335 York Ave. 952-826-0357
Public Works & Park Maintenance Facility, 952-826-0376 7450 Metro Blvd.
South Metro Public Safety Training Facility, 952-903-5700 7525 Braemar Blvd.
Elected Officials
City Council
Jim Hovland, Mayor 612-874-8551Kate Agnew, Council Member 952-833-9556Carolyn Jackson, Council Member 952-833-9547James Pierce, Council Member 952-833-9548Julie Risser, Council Member 952-833-9557
Edina Board of Education
Cheryl Barry, Clerk 952-848-3611Dan Arom, Assistant Clerk 952-848-3613Elliot Mann, Assistant Clerk 952-848-3614Erica Allenburg, Vice Chair 952-848-3612Jennifer Huwe, Treasurer 952-848-3610Karen Gabler, Chair 952-848-3616Michael Birdman, Assistant Treasurer 952-848-3615
Hennepin County
Heather Edelson, heather.edelson@hennepin.usCommissioner
City-Recognized Neighborhoods
Arden Park, Elliot Rosenblum, ArdenParkNA@gmail.com
Brookview Heights, Paul Nelson, pnelson5220@gmail.com
Chowen Park, David Litteken, david.litteken@gmail.com
Concord, Ellen Westin, EllenWestin@edinarealty.com
Creek Knoll, Tim O’Neill, tim@pianobrothers.com
Lake Cornelia, Nora Davis, noradavis73@gmail.com
Morningside, Paul Thompson, paul@coolplanetmn.org
Pamela Park, Laura Bergman, laurabergman@edinarealty.com
Parkwood Knolls, Cory Griffeth, parkwoodknolls@gmail.com
South Cornelia, Mike Eastman, team@southcornelia.org
Strachauer Park, Nicole Meehan, spna@strachauerpark.org
Sunnyslope, Marcia Kreter, SunnyslopeAssoc@gmail.com
White Oaks, Brian Lambert, brianlambertmn@gmail.com
Call 952-927-8861 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday
through Friday for general information. If you
have a situation after hours or on weekends,
but do not require an immediate response
from a Paramedic, Firefighter, Police Officer or
Public Works crew, call the Police Department’s
non-emergency number, 952-826-1610.
AboutTown Magazine
City of Edina
4801 West 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
EdinaMN.gov