By Rich Larson
The Northfield City Council will meet tonight, with the most significant item on the agenda being a vote to establish the city’s preliminary property tax levy for 2027.
The council will consider a proposed levy increase of 8.6 percent, along with the preliminary 2027 General Fund budget. The proposed levy includes funding for the city’s Housing and Redevelopment Authority and Economic Development Authority.
The vote comes after several months of budget discussions, including a council work session last week focused on the 2027 budget and the city’s five-year capital improvement and capital equipment plans.
Tonight’s vote will establish the maximum amount the city can collect through its property tax levy next year. The council can reduce that amount before adopting the final budget in December, but it cannot increase it.
Councilors will also establish a date and time for a public hearing on the proposed budget.
Several other financial matters are on tonight’s agenda.
The council will consider adopting utility rates and changes to city fees and charges for 2027. Councilors will also vote on the proposed 2027 budget and capital equipment plan for the Northfield Area Fire and Rescue Service, including the city’s contribution to the department.
Parking restrictions in the neighborhoods surrounding St. Olaf College will also be discussed.
The council will consider eliminating overnight parking restrictions on portions of First and Second Streets West, while maintaining restrictions in front of privately owned residences and prohibiting parking around the Second Street cul-de-sac.
Councilors will also consider asking Rice County to modify parking restrictions along Lincoln Street.
Other agenda items include a request for proposals for a Safe Streets and Roads for All planning project and a proposal to implement broadband franchising authority for public rights-of-way.
Tonight’s meeting begins at 6 o’clock in the Northfield City Council Chambers.
Rich Larson is the owner/general manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
