Lake Forest Park council proposes 24¢ property tax increase for public safety services

In the heart of Lake Forest Park, city council members gathered under the warm glow of the council chamber lights, engaging in a spirited discussion about the future of the city’s budget and public safety funding. The July 10, 2025, City Council Regular Meeting was marked by a pivotal conversation surrounding a proposed property tax levy aimed at enhancing police and public safety services.

Councilor Lebo opened the dialogue by emphasizing the council's ability to make immediate budgetary decisions without relying on a levy. He pointed out that the council could fund a crucial human resources position right away, highlighting the importance of being respectful to taxpayers who ultimately bear the financial burden of these decisions. “We don’t need a levy to do it,” he asserted, suggesting that if the proposed levy were to fail, the council could revisit the issue in the following year.

The discussion quickly turned to the proposed levy rate, with Vice Mayor expressing a preference for a 24-cent increase per $1,000 of assessed property value, while also considering a compromise at 20 cents. He voiced concerns about the city’s financial stability, noting that a lower rate might leave the city vulnerable in the coming years. “We should not let the perfect be the enemy of the good,” he cautioned, advocating for a balanced approach that would ensure ongoing expenses are supported by reliable revenue.

As the conversation unfolded, Councilor Real reiterated the importance of sustainable funding, particularly for ongoing expenses like salaries. He warned against relying on one-time funds, which could jeopardize the city’s financial health in the long run. “Using those one-time funds wisely is important to me,” he stated, advocating for the 24-cent levy as a means to maintain fiscal responsibility.

The council members engaged in a collaborative dialogue, weighing the implications of their decisions on the community. Councilor Responder expressed a shift in perspective, leaning towards the 24-cent proposal after hearing the arguments presented. The atmosphere remained congenial, with members acknowledging the difficulty of their roles as policymakers.

As the meeting progressed, Deputy Mayor introduced a resolution to place the proposed levy on the ballot for the upcoming general election in November 2025. The resolution outlined a potential increase of approximately $1,200,000 in the city’s regular property tax levy, setting the stage for a critical decision that would impact public safety funding for years to come.

The council's deliberations underscored the delicate balance between fiscal responsibility and community needs. With the proposed levy now on the table, the council faces the challenge of aligning their budgetary decisions with the expectations of the citizens they serve. As the meeting drew to a close, the members left with a sense of purpose, knowing that their choices would shape the future of Lake Forest Park and its commitment to public safety.