Residents question special assessments at Delaware Avenue reconstruction hearing

Mayor David Napier opened a public hearing on the Delaware Avenue Reconstruction Project (CP 25-3) after a presentation by Public Works Director and City Engineer Ross Beckwith. Residents attending the hearing pressed the council for details about how much individual property owners would pay and what direct benefits they would receive.

Resident David Paton said he was trying to understand “what benefit this project brings to property owners,” noting that assessments come on top of existing property tax levies. Another resident, recorded in the minutes as Robert St. Ann, questioned whether a busy county road should incur a special assessment and raised concerns about tree removal, loss of on-street parking, easement liability and the fairness of assessing property owners for a trail that will be used by the broader public.

Beckwith explained the city’s assessment policy and described available options, including a deferral process; City Attorney Greta Bjerkness added there is an assessment appeal process. Staff told the council the more detailed assessment hearing with specific dollar amounts is expected in October 2028. Beckwith also noted the planned trail or sidewalk would be located on the Mendota Heights side of the corridor.

The council voted to authorize preparation of plans and specifications for the project; the minutes record the motion passing 6-0. The record does not include specific assessment amounts or a final assessment schedule. Residents and property owners seeking relief or further information will need to await the assessment hearing that staff indicated is likely in October 2028.