City Council Meeting Recap: Tax Levy Increase, Budget Approval, and More

The Osakis City Council made some significant decisions during its final meeting of the year on Tuesday night, Dec. 10. The council passed a 6% tax levy and approved the city’s 2025 budget, which includes an increase of $49,822. The preliminary tax levy was set at $880,181, with taxes accounting for nearly half of the city budget.

Expenditures in the general fund saw an increase from the previous year, attributed to capital costs, repair and maintenance, salaries, and liability insurance. Additionally, new water and sewer rates for 2025 were approved, with adjustments ranging from a $2 increase in seasonal sewer rates to a 95-cent increase in the minimum water bill per month.

Fees for renting out the Community Center and some planning and zoning services have also been raised, with the updated fee schedule to be available on the Osakis city website in the new year. The council also introduced the new liquor store manager, Troy Benning, following the resignation of the previous manager in October.

One of the more contentious topics at the meeting was the proposed cannabis ordinance, which will be discussed at a public hearing on Thursday, Dec. 19. Outgoing mayor Dan Wessel found himself in heated exchanges with council member Al Larson and community members over various issues, including a news release and controversial comments made earlier in the year.

Overall, the final meeting of the year for the Osakis City Council was filled with important decisions and lively discussions, setting the stage for the city’s direction in 2025.