Brian Olsen is stepping down as Public Works Director after 13 years leading the department. During his tenure, he oversaw major infrastructure improvements that have made a measurable difference in Edina's streets and sidewalks. The city's pavement condition rating improved from average to a high B or low A grade over 10 years—a change city officials called "remarkable."

Olsen also launched several key initiatives, including a sidewalk inspection and maintenance program and a north parking ramp expansion at 50th and France. Under his leadership, the city significantly reduced salt usage during winter operations by updating equipment and training staff on new technology. Colleagues praised his "quiet confidence" and mission-focused approach to the department's work.

Before joining Edina, Olsen began his civil engineering career in New Brighton and later worked in Ramsey. He reflected on his philosophy during the meeting, saying "Attitude to me is more important than facts. It's more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do."

Following Olsen's retirement, the city will combine the Public Works and Engineering departments under the leadership of Chad Milner. Olsen will assist part-time during the transition to ensure continuity.

In other business, the council discussed holiday closures at City Hall. The city offices will be closed December 24-26 for Christmas and January 1-2 for New Year's. The Edina Police Department also highlighted its "Lock Around the Clock" holiday safety initiative, which advises residents on home security measures including installing alarms and cameras, locking doors and windows, and leaving lights on. The department also promoted its Safe Cam program, which allows residents to voluntarily register their home security cameras to assist police investigations without granting police direct access to the footage.