The Edina City Council conducted an extensive budget work session Thursday, reviewing operations across all city departments as officials work to address projected budget increases while maintaining service levels.

The session covered nine departments, from Parks and Recreation to Communications, with department heads presenting detailed overviews of their services, staffing structures, and cost drivers. Parks and Recreation Director Perry Vetter outlined the department's 68 full-time employees managing facilities from Braemar Golf Course to the Edina Aquatic Center, noting challenges from climate change impacts to seasonal staffing shortages.

Public Works Director Brian Olson emphasized the department's snow removal capabilities, maintaining 486 lane miles of streets with 25 plow routes. Engineering Director Chad Millner highlighted the city's aging infrastructure needs and ongoing capital improvement projects funded through various sources including the local option sales tax.

Council members expressed concerns about the budget process, with several requesting that city staff provide specific recommendations for achieving budget targets rather than asking council members to identify areas for potential cuts. "I would much rather you come back with here's how we think we can get there," said Council Member James Pierce.

City Manager Scott Neal indicated the process will continue through March, with staff developing recommendations based on council feedback and budget impact analysis. The operational budget preparation process is scheduled to begin in May, with final budget documents typically produced in July.