By Jan Gilmer and Nathan Peabody
The Jordan City Council gathered Sept. 8 to hear public input, review financial reports, and take action on several administrative and planning items. Discussion touched on parking challenges downtown, permit fees, the city’s wastewater treatment funding, and levy resolutions.
Public Comment
Downtown parking dominated public comment.
A resident of 218 Broadway raised concerns about limited parking for apartment tenants, stressing that public parking is needed for business customers.
A property owner at 217/219 Broadway suggested a permit system giving residential tenants priority for long-term parking while preserving access for business patrons. Under the idea, Jordan Police Department could monitor permitted vehicles.
A resident of 210 Varner asked council to consider a one-time permit review and fee for Managed Natural Landscapes on city-owned boulevards and right-of-ways rather than an annual charge.
Administrator’s Report
City staff updated council on efforts to secure state funding for wastewater treatment facility (WWTF) improvements. The city failed to obtain funds in the last legislative bill and is now considering hiring a lobbyist.
A request for proposals will be sent directly and posted through the League of Minnesota Cities, with responses due Sept. 19. Staff recommended a $30,000 budget for lobbying, split between 2025 and 2026.
Mayor Travis Fremming noted support from Sen. Eric Pratt and Rep. Ben Bakeberg, who encouraged Jordan to partner its WWTF project with another river community to strengthen its case for bonding dollars. Councilmember Whipps opposed hiring a lobbyist.
Council also revisited parking concerns raised earlier. Police Chief Empey and councilmembers discussed balancing needs between businesses and residents, the role of complaint-driven enforcement, and the effect of snow plowing on downtown parking. Staff noted an access agreement with Xcel allowed Creamery residents to lease designated spaces.
Finance Report
Finance Director Morey Schaefer presented the Preliminary Tax Levy resolution, representing the maximum levy increase for 2026. The increase totals $387,591, with $198,891 for debt service and $188,700 for the general fund—a 2.381% increase over 2025.
City Finances under the Preliminary Levy
General Fund: $4,546,718
COPS Grant: $41,500
Tax Abatement: $65,000
Debt Service: $1,517,950
Total: $6,170,950
This marks an improvement over an earlier projection of a 5.927% increase. The resolution passed unanimously.
Council also approved the Preliminary HRA Tax Levy to fund the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) and Economic Development Authority (EDA) in 2026. The resolution includes a $40,000 general fund transfer to the EDA. The levy will rise about 10%, to $157,174, giving the EDA/HRA a budget of $211,674. Councilmember Whipps opposed this measure.
Planner’s Report
Council approved a Façade Matching Grant for an awning replacement at 116 Broadway St. S.
Staff also presented the draft permit for Managed Natural Landscapes on city boulevards and right-of-ways. The proposal included species restrictions, setback requirements, and an annual permit fee. Councilmember Penney noted annual permits allow regular compliance reviews. After discussion, the council approved a $ 50 annual permit fee for natural plantings.
Consent Agenda
The consent agenda included:
Check register and council per diem
Monthly public works report
Transfer of $700,000 in excess general funds into capital projects, parks, and city facilities
Setting Oct. 27, 2025, as the public hearing date for delinquent utility bills
Partial and final pay requests on infrastructure projects
Approval of an additional police officer position
Decertification of TIF districts 1–9
Submission of a capital budget request for the WWTF
Addition of annual permit fees for Managed Natural Landscapes to the city’s fee schedule
Mayor and Council Comments
Under Mayor comments on the agenda the council considered the appointment of Rebecca Brewster to the open EDA seat. The Council approved the appointment of Rebecca Brewster to the EDA a six year term from October 2025 through September 2031.
Mayor Fremming reported that Sunset Drive improvements are complete, and praised the success of Heimatfest.
Councilmembers echoed positive feedback about Sunset Drive, Broadway Plaza, and Heimatfest. Councilmember Schuh highlighted the ribbon cutting at Broadway Plaza. Councilmember Pho noted some confusion from residents who mistook Broadway Plaza for a dog park. Councilmember Penney commended the plaza’s atmosphere, especially with live music.
The next Jordan City Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, Septmeber 22 at 6:30 pm.