Ramsey County board certifies maximum 2026 levy amid calls to limit final increase

Ramsey County commissioners on Sept. 23 voted unanimously to certify the maximum levy for the proposed 2026 property tax notice, a procedural step board members said preserves options while further budget work continues.

Chair invited a motion to certify the maximum levy, which a commissioner moved and the board approved by roll call. Commissioners stressed the vote does not set the final tax rate: "I just wanna be clear that today's vote is just setting the max levy and that my commitment still remains, working through this budget with our staff, and with our residents," said a commissioner who led the remarks during discussion.

Several commissioners said the county faces federal and state funding shifts that will force difficult choices. One commissioner summarized the scale of the proposal discussed during budget hearings: "While our proposed budget is 929,000,000, the proposed tax levy is around 467,000,000," and urged continued work to lower the eventual levy while protecting essential services.

Speakers noted mandated programs, including medical assistance and other state and federal responsibilities, limit flexibility in cutting levy‑supported services. Commissioners said they will continue public outreach, examine operating expenses and staffing studies, and explore revenue options including bonding and use of fund balance.

Why it matters: Certifying a maximum levy is an early procedural step in the annual budget calendar. Commissioners framed the action as preserving fiscal options while continuing a months‑long process to set a final levy that balances service obligations and taxpayer impacts. The board will continue deliberations through December before adopting a final levy.

No amendments or roll calls changed the substance of the motion; the transcript records a unanimous recorded “Aye” vote on the certification motion.