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Rochester officials present 2026-27 budget; preliminary levy up 5.9% after cuts
Summary
City staff presented a two-year 2026–27 budget showing a recommended preliminary levy increase of 5.9% for 2026 after department reductions and use of one‑time funds. Staff and council discussed decision packages, equipment funds and utility rate adjustments during the Sept. study session.
Administrator Zelms on Sept. 8 presented the city’s proposed two‑year 2026–27 budget and explained that the recommended preliminary levy increase for 2026 is 5.9%, down from a previously projected 10% after reductions and use of one‑time funds. The council continued discussion in a study session to review decision packages, utility fee adjustments and other budget details before the Sept. 22 preliminary levy adoption deadline.
The preliminary levy remains below 50% of the city’s net tax capacity, Zelms said, and the recommended budget totals about $664 million in 2026 and $636 million in 2027. Zelms said the city absorbed cost…
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