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Saint Paul council sets 2026 maximum property tax levy at 5.3% after debate on cuts and services
Summary
The Saint Paul City Council voted 5-0 to approve a proposed 5.3% maximum property tax levy for 2026 after members said the rate balances service needs and taxpayer concerns; councilors emphasized ongoing budget work and the $23 million deficit the city faces for next year.
The Saint Paul City Council voted 5-0 to set a 5.3% maximum property tax levy for 2026, approving a resolution that establishes the ceiling the city will use during its upcoming budget process.
Council members who spoke during the discussion said the proposed levy is a difficult but responsible step given current budget pressures. Council Member Johnson said he did not take the decision lightly, noting that departments have already reported cuts tied to the levy proposal. "I don't think this tax levy vote [comes] easily," Johnson said, adding that councilors must weigh sustaining existing services against new initiatives.
The vote…
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