Commissioners consider home rule charter route to fund county priorities amid debate over sales tax

Ramsey County staff briefed commissioners on March 4 about the process and options for pursuing a home rule charter, including the possibility of a countywide sales tax to fund public-safety facilities and other county priorities.

County staff described how a charter commission would be appointed (within 60 days after initiation), the committee's duties, public meetings, and the one-year timeline to report back to the county commission. Staff cited an example of another county that proposed a one-percent sales tax dedicated to public safety and noted that a home rule charter can alter governance structures and tax authorities beyond the basic Century Code model.

Commissioners debated the merits and risks. Supporters said a sales tax could shift some facility costs (for example, jail construction and operation) away from property taxes and spread them to visitors and nonresident purchasers. Critics warned that additional sales taxes increase the overall tax burden on residents, and one commissioner said he is “totally against it” if the purpose is merely to raise taxes without broader governance changes. Several commissioners requested a concise summary of the legal process and options — described by counsel as a “home rule for dummies” — before appointing a charter commission. Staff said legislation still pending in the Legislature could affect options and that more education and public outreach are prudent.

No committee was formed; staff agreed to prepare a plain-language summary of relevant statutory steps and to be available for individual briefings so commissioners can decide whether to initiate a charter commission at a later meeting.