Mayor Deshler's 2026 State of the City Address
Posted on 03/31/2026
State of the City Address
Mayor Julie Deshler
City of Crystal, Minnesota
March 31, 2026
Dear Crystal Residents,
It is my pleasure to share this year’s State of the City and reflect on the progress we continue to make together. Crystal remains a community built on strong neighborhoods, engaged residents, and a shared commitment to improving our city. Over the past year, we have taken important steps to strengthen our community, invest in public spaces, support public safety, and plan responsibly for the future.
A Welcoming Community Built on Engagement
At the heart of our work is a commitment to inclusion. Crystal strives to be a welcoming and respectful community where all voices are heard and valued. We believe diversity strengthens our city, and we continue working to ensure our policies, programs, and workforce reflect and serve our residents.
We are also committed to delivering high-value services. Through responsible budgeting, efficient operations, and thoughtful investments, the city council and staff work to maximize the value residents receive for every taxpayer dollar. Our 2025–2027 Strategic Plan outlines priorities focused on financial stability, transparency, and strengthening city services through long-range planning and efficiency.
We know higher property taxes have a real impact on residents and families. These decisions are never easy. At the same time, we are responsible for maintaining streets, water systems, and public safety services. After years of deferring some investments, we are taking steps to catch up in a balanced way. Our goal is to protect the quality of life that makes Crystal a great place to live while remaining mindful of the burden on residents. By investing now, we can avoid larger challenges in the future and ensure long-term stability.
Maintaining a clean and attractive community is a shared responsibility. Through the “Let’s Be Crystal Clean” campaign, we encourage residents to help keep streets, parks, and public spaces clean by participating in cleanup efforts and reporting concerns.
This past year, Crystal Cove Aquatic Center reopened following significant upgrades, offering enhanced features and new opportunities for families and swimmers.
Safety and Strong Infrastructure
Public safety remains one of the city’s most important responsibilities. Last year marked a leadership transition within our police department. Following the retirement of Chief Stephanie Revering, I had the honor of swearing in Brian Hubbard as Police Chief and Pete Underthun as Deputy Chief. Their experience and dedication will help ensure continued outstanding service.
Maintaining safe and connected neighborhoods requires ongoing investment in infrastructure. As we prepare the 2027 city budget, the council is exploring sustainable and more diversified funding options.
One option under consideration is the use of franchise fees, a small monthly charge on utility bills that helps spread infrastructure costs more evenly. Many neighboring cities already use this approach to reduce reliance on large assessments or property tax increases. We will host a public forum in May to share information and gather input.
Planning for a Sustainable Future
Crystal is planning thoughtfully for long-term growth and sustainability. The city council recently adopted the Town Center Vision Plan, providing a framework for redevelopment and infrastructure improvements in our downtown over the next 25 years. The plan envisions a vibrant, mixed-use district with retail, housing, and future improvements, including potential reconstruction of West Broadway in coordination with Hennepin County.
We are also advancing environmental stewardship. Crystal’s Sustainability Commission has begun work on the city’s first Climate Action Plan, Resilient Crystal, supported by a grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. This effort will guide strategies to reduce energy use, protect resources, and strengthen resilience. A public meeting to share progress and gather feedback will be held May 23.
Crystal’s progress is made possible by the dedication of our city staff, council members, community partners, volunteers, and residents. Together, we are building a stronger, safer, and more vibrant community. With your continued engagement, Crystal will remain a welcoming and thriving city for generations to come.
Thank you for all you do to make Crystal a city we are proud to call home.
Sincerely,
Mayor Julie Deshler
City of Crystal, Minnesota