Brooklyn Park's financial position strengthened significantly in 2024, according to the annual comprehensive financial report presented to the City Council Monday evening.

Auditor Ryan Engelstead of Bergen KDV reported the city received an unmodified audit opinion, the optimal result for municipal financial statements. The general fund balance grew by 18% from 2023 to 2024, with revenues exceeding expenses by approximately $5 million. The city now maintains fund balance coverage approaching the target 50% level, recovering from a dip in 2022.

The council also approved a zoning compliance resolution for a 44-unit housing development at 5869 69th Avenue North. The Sangrass Point project, which includes 33 apartment units and 11 townhomes, previously received city approval in August 2024. The resolution confirms the project meets zoning requirements as part of the developer's application for Hennepin County funding.

In other business, the council authorized purchasing an autonomous mower for Edinburgh USA golf course for $34,157. Recreation and Parks Director Brad Tolberg said the equipment will allow staff to focus on the 18-hole course that matters most to golfers while automating driving range maintenance.

The council discussed next steps for the Community Activity Center improvements project, which has faced repeated setbacks in securing state bonding funds. With $5 million already allocated from the state and $2 million from the 2018 park bond referendum, the project still needs approximately $17 million to complete the planned gymnasium addition and facility improvements. Council members expressed preference for continuing to pursue state funding rather than placing the full burden on local taxpayers.