Melrose Council Adopts $1.49 Million Tax Levy, Approves Night Vision Cameras for Police

MELROSE — December 14, 2023 — Melrose's City Council adopted a $1.49 million tax levy for 2024 and cleared a packed December agenda including a $14,000 infrared camera purchase for squad cars. Finance Director Ryan reported the levy represents a $50,000 increase over 2023 but produces a tax rate decrease of nearly 2 percent, driven by growth in the city's tax capacity as calculated by Stearns County; he projected the city will reach a balanced budget by 2028. The council also adopted the 2024 through 2028 five-year Capital Improvement Plan, approved updated sick leave and cannabis testing policies effective January 1 under new Minnesota law, and passed a uniform grant guidance policy after last year's audit flagged a lack of written internal controls over federal awards. Police Chief Craig confirmed Officer Dave Bonfield resigned to join the Benton County Sheriff's Office, with replacement interviews set for December 20. The council approved Andrew Rosling as the new Streets and Parks Supervisor starting January 3 and appointed two new ambulance staff — paramedic Adam Fedck and transport nurse Gina Edgert — to fill out the department's ALS transfer roster.