The Edina City Council reviewed plans to implement a 3% convenience fee on electronic payments and heard updates on comprehensive mental health and safety programs for city staff during a work session Tuesday.

Finance Director Pa Tao outlined the credit card fee proposal, which aims to generate $300,000 annually to offset rising processing costs across all city operations. The fee would apply to credit and debit card payments but not bank transfers, with full implementation planned by December 31. However, some operations face technical challenges, including golf operations using Golf Genius software that cannot currently add transaction fees, and activity reservations that currently only accept online payments.

The council also received extensive presentations on social support programs for police, fire, and parks and recreation staff. Police Chief detailed mandatory annual mental health check-ins for all officers, peer support teams, and physical wellness initiatives including cardiovascular screening through Sigma Tactical. The department has expanded workout-on-duty policies and implemented load-bearing vests to reduce physical strain.

Fire Department representative Sean White described their embedded mental health approach, working with Dr. Margaret Gavian who rides with crews and spends time in fire stations to build relationships and provide immediate support. The department utilizes state funding through programs like Minfire and maintains relationships with chaplains and specialized counselors.

Parks and Recreation Director Perry presented their safety and security blueprint developed with consulting firm Axel Group, making Edina the first parks department to work with the security specialists. The program includes comprehensive facility assessments using crime prevention through environmental design principles and specialized training for frontline staff who regularly encounter patron conflicts and emergency situations.

The council requested a breakdown of credit card fees by department to better understand where costs are highest before making final decisions. Finance staff will present the initial budget proposal at the August 19 council work session.