White Bear Lake City Council 09/08/2026

The City of White Bear Lake City Council held a meeting on September 8, 2026, primarily focused on reviewing and discussing the preliminary 2027 budget and tax levy. Staff presented detailed analyses of the general fund budget, fund balance policies, revenue and expenditure changes, and the impact of the tax levy compared to peer cities. Key procurement-related topics included funding allocations for capital improvement projects such as streetlight pole replacements, tree removal programs addressing emerald ash borer infestations, and the implementation of a new permits and code enforcement software system. The council discussed personnel additions, including a communication specialist and firefighter/EMT positions, and considered the timing and budget impact of these hires. The council also deliberated on the use of local government aid (LGA) funds, recommending a reduction in reliance on LGA for operations by reallocating it to the equipment acquisition fund to support capital purchases. After discussion, the council voted to adopt the preliminary tax levy resolution as presented, with an emphasis on seeking public input before the final adoption in December. No new contracts or vendor awards were announced, but several budget items related to ongoing and planned procurement activities were highlighted.