Sartell Releases 2025 Audit Report, Provides Public Works Updates

(KNSI) — The city of Sartell has released its 2025 annual financial report and provided an update on several park projects.

The city’s annual audit measures how it spends its tax dollars, examining the city’s enterprise, general and debt funds. Overall, Sartell saw a net position increase of $582,652 from 2024, indicating the city’s long-term financial health improved over the previous year.

For 2025, General Fund revenues increased $835,972 from the previous year. Property tax revenues rose $788,766, driven by an increase in the levy. Service charge revenues were up $193,807, while licenses and permits fell $200,845 due to a slowdown in building and development activity.
On the expenditure side, public safety saw the largest increase of $745,791 as the city hired additional officers. General government expenditures rose $197,133 due to cost-of-living and step increases. Parks and recreation expenditures increased by $200,636 after the city hired more part-time workers, and economic development expenditures decreased by $123,478 following a reallocation of salary and benefits.

Over the past five years, the city’s General Fund has grown from $4,540,865 to $5,976,644. Finance Director Rob Voshell attributes the steady growth to higher housing prices and a strong real estate market.

Water Fund operating revenues remained consistent with the previous year, dropping just $2,063. Sewer and stormwater revenues jumped $295,522 and $214,816, respectively, both due to rate increases. The full report is available on the city’s website.

In the Public Works Department, reconstruction on the city’s west side continues. Final paving is scheduled for June, while crews continue installing temporary water service and completing deep sanitary sewer work in Area C. Residents will receive direct communication from the city regarding short-term access needs.

Construction is also progressing on Grizzly Lane following several utility delays. Utility installations are set to begin next week, with private utility relocations to follow. Residents will receive weekly updates and on-site notices as work progresses.

Phase 1 of the Mill Site Trail project is nearing 80% completion and remains on schedule to open later this year. Phase 2 construction is set to begin this summer, extending the trail deeper into the Mill District. Both phases are supported by grant funding. Additionally, Xcel Energy will relocate overhead power lines over the next several weeks as part of the 2026 Heritage Trail Project, with construction slated to begin after Memorial Day.

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