The Inver Grove Heights City Council meeting on September 8, 2025, focused on public comment procedures and community safety concerns, particularly regarding the Southview Country Club's driving range.

During the meeting, council members discussed the current three-minute limit for public comments. Councilor Scales expressed support for maintaining this time limit, emphasizing the need for structured discussions to prevent lengthy meetings. He acknowledged that while some individuals may struggle with public speaking, the council has been flexible in accommodating such situations. The council also considered whether to allow individuals to speak multiple times during the same meeting, a topic that will be revisited in future discussions.

Public safety was a significant concern raised by resident Kelly Kaeser, who reported damage to her vehicle caused by a golf ball from the Southview Country Club. Kaeser urged the council to consider implementing safety measures, such as protective nets, to prevent similar incidents, especially given the increased pedestrian traffic in the area. She highlighted the potential risks to children and other pedestrians and provided a letter outlining her request for the council's consideration.

Another resident, Mark Sampson, addressed the council regarding budgetary concerns, specifically the rising tax rates in Inver Grove Heights. He presented data showing that the city's tax increases have significantly outpaced inflation and questioned the accuracy of the proposed tax rate increases. Sampson requested clarification on the city's bond repayment strategies and the interest rates associated with them.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the council to address the concerns raised by residents in future sessions, particularly regarding public safety and budget transparency.