Edina council adopts 11.03% preliminary levy as debate continues over firefighter hires

The United City Council on Sept. 16 adopted a preliminary property-tax levy of $65,517,752 for payable 2026 — an 11.03 percent increase over 2025 — while continuing a debate over how many new paramedic-firefighter positions to staff. The council set the levy by voice vote after a motion from Council Member Jackson, seconded by Council Member Agnew. Mayor Hovland presided. City Manager Neil told the council the higher preliminary levy was proposed to preserve flexibility while members decide whether to add 12 full‑time firefighters next year if a federal SAFER grant is not received. Finance Director Pa Thao presented the draft budget and said the levy figure incorporates funding to add 12 firefighters in 2026 and contemplates 12–18 additional firefighters in 2027 depending on grant outcomes and Council direction. Why it matters: the city delivers ambulance and paramedic services with city firefighters; council members said current staffing limits the number of simultaneous ambulance and engine responses the city can reliably send. Council members and staff urged public input during the coming weeks before the council adopts a final levy and budget at a Truth‑in‑Taxation hearing in December. Councils’ positions and next steps - Council Member Risser described…