The Edina City Council on June 3 unanimously approved a joint powers agreement to transfer the city's assessing services to Hennepin County, a move expected to save approximately $600,000 in 2026.

City Manager Scott Neal told the council the transition, which will begin July 1, 2026, represents part of the city's strategy to reduce property tax levy growth. The savings could lower the rate of growth by 1.25 to 2.25 percent over the next two years, according to Neal.

The agreement makes Edina one of only two cities, along with Maple Grove, to join the county's assessing program from among eight Hennepin County cities that provide their own assessing services. The transition will result in layoffs for the city's assessing division employees, though Neal said the county has expressed interest in offering employment to current staff.

The council also approved a master services agreement with Tegra Group for program management consulting services. The agreement establishes working parameters for the consulting firm to assist with various city construction projects, including the ice arena and fire station projects.

During community comment, residents raised concerns about pedestrian safety at a crosswalk on Eden Avenue and requested updates on establishing railroad quiet zones along the CPKC Rail line that runs through the city. City Engineer Director Miller said advanced warning lights for the crosswalk have been approved and are on order, while acknowledging that establishing quiet zones would require a lengthy federal process costing millions of dollars.