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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL — DECEMBER 8, 2025 7 down on behalf of all residents. She stated she supported the levy as proposed by staff. She asked that anyone who opposed the levy to offer suggestions on what items should be cut for 2026. Gregg Larson, 3377 North Snelling Avenue, stated he supported the proposed property tax levy increase at 15.97%. He reported the City's budgets have been underfunded for years which contributed to a culture of underfunding capital improvements. He appreciated how the new Councilmembers recognized the need for investment in long-term City goals. He stated he was pleased to see the City would be returning to a 50% general fund balance in 2026. He indicated responsible Councilmembers will support the proposed budget and tax levy increase. He commented further on how the City's franchise fees were designated to the new fire station. He encouraged the City Council to consider moving $165,000 in excess franchise fees to pay down the bond payments versus paying down the levy increase. He supported the bonds being paid down, even if this increases the levy for 2026. Chris Hughes, 3515 Snelling Avenue, thanked the Council and staff for their efforts on the 2026 budget and tax levy. He reported he appreciated seeing Arden Hills on the lower end when it comes to taxes in Ramsey County. But after some further consideration, he questioned why the City was not investing in the City. He understood low taxes were good, but that this came at an expense. He believed the City could afford to invest in itself. With no one else coming forward to speak, Mayor Grant closed the Truth in Taxation Hearing at 8:14 p.m. B. Economic Development Authority (EDA) Membership Assistant to the City Administrator/City Clerk Hanson stated at its work session on December 18, 2023 and most recently again on October 10, 2025 the City Council discussed the EDA membership and potentially increasing that membership from five to seven members. Following discussion, Council consensus was to move forward with increasing the EDA membership from five to seven members, with the composition being five City Councilmembers and two members from the City's Economic Development Commission (EDC). The City Attorney has drafted the necessary resolution and ordinance amendment which will be presented under New Business item 11B. The Council is required to hold a public hearing and the necessary notice for such was published in the Pioneer Press twice per State Statute requirements and notification was also provided on the City's website. Mayor Grant opened the public hearing at 8:16 p.m. With no one coming forward to speak, Mayor Grant closed the public hearing at 8:17 p.m. 11. NEW BUSINESS A. Adoption of the 2026 Budget and Tax Levy • Resolution 2025-079 Setting the Final Tax Levy for Taxes Payable in 2026 • Resolution 2025-080 Adopting the Proposed 2026 Budget