SHERBURN — Sherburn City Council this week continued its discussion of the preliminary 2021 city budget.

The council would like to keep the property tax levy increase low, or even at zero percent. However, the city may first submit a preliminary budget at a higher percentage because it can always lower it later but cannot increase it.

The mayor asked the council to think about future projects and prioritize improvements. Repairs on the fire hall and some street projects were mentioned.

The city clerk will update the budget proposal with the reserves available in each department.

City administration and council members will discuss a nine-year plan in October.

In other business, the council:

o Heard from a resident who asked about ordinances concerning items stored on empty lots. The council agreed to examine the ordinances.

o Held a public hearing on assessments for the improvements on Cargill Street. The council approved preparation of proposed assessments. Landowners have been contacted.

o Received a financial report from Temperance Lake Ridge. Officials believe it looks good, especially considering some units could not be used temporarily because of construction at the facility.