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Some residents back new municipal campus, citing police safety and services
Summary
Several residents told the council they support a new municipal campus to meet Police Department safety and space needs; supporters said modest tax increases would preserve local police services and cited the Police Chief's earlier briefings.
Supporters of the municipal campus spoke during public comment, emphasizing police safety, operational needs and long-term value for residents. Holly Farber (1701 James Rd) praised Police Chief Kelly McCarthy’s prior presentation and said the Council should rely on professionals' recommendations to provide a safe workplace for police and staff.
Jennifer Faulkner (1681 Lilac Ln) said Mendota Heights' taxes remain relatively low and cited a resident estimate that a reduced project scope near $22,000,000 would amount to about $30 a month in taxes for her household. “Cost keeps the Police Department in Mendota Heights and keeps the community safe, and [that] is worth $30 a month,” Faulkner said. John Farber added that local services and safety helped maintain property values.
Councilors said they are weighing those community perspectives alongside concerns about cost and ballfield impacts as they refine the project scope.
