The Roundabout

Thursday, December 18, 2025

Author

Theo Franz
December 18, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes

Welcome to your weekly Roundabout!

This week, WNN took a close look at how crime data, public perception and policy intersect nearly a year after the METRO Gold Line began service between Woodbury and St. Paul. Our top story examines what the statistics show, how concerns have taken hold in public conversation, and where the debate stands as the transit line continues to take shape.

We also cover the City Council’s approval of a 9.7% property tax levy for 2026, results from the District 47A DFL primary, and updates spanning business, restaurant rewards and celebrations.

Here is your local news for the week:

Editor: Theo Franz
[email protected]
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Top Story

A Metro Gold Line bus set to depart to St. Paul on Dec. 11, 2025.

Stats Show Limited Crime Tied to Gold Line, but Public Perception Still Shapes Debate

by Theo Franz | Published on Dec. 12, 2025

Nearly a year after the METRO Gold Line opened its 10-mile dedicated busway between Woodbury and St. Paul, residents and officials continue to weigh whether the service is meeting expectations, and whether concerns about crime, homelessness and economic impact match the reality on the ground.

The $500 million line began running March 22, 2025, linking 16 stations with service every 10 minutes on weekdays and every 15 minutes on weekends. The line was initially projected to draw 5,900 daily riders by the end of its first year.

 

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City & County

Woodbury City Council Approves 9.7% Property Tax Levy Increase for 2026

by Theo Franz

The Woodbury City Council approved a new property tax levy on Wednesday, setting a 9.7% increase for 2026 that city leaders say reflects rising costs and an investment in public safety.

News

Shelley Buck Wins DFL Primary for House District 47A Seat

by Beth-Ann Bloom

Shelley Buck, who garnered 87.5% of the vote, won the Dec. 16 Democratic primary for the House seat in District 47A.

 

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Out & About

Hmong New Year Brings Tradition and Community to Woodbury High School

by Theo Franz

The sounds of laughter, music and clinking coins echoed through the Woodbury High School cafeteria as families gathered to celebrate the South Washington County Hmong New Year, an annual tradition rooted in history but increasingly shaped by the next generation.

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Woodbury News Net is thankful for the financial support received from these Founding Sponsors:

 

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