The Richfield City Council voted Dec. 9 to adopt resolutions approving the 2025 revised and 2026 proposed budgets and a final combined tax levy of $32,491,611.

Councilmember Coleman Woods presented the budget details, noting the preliminary certified levy included a general‑fund operations levy of $25,475,883, debt service of $3,946,030, an equipment/technology levy of $1,682,308 and an economic development agency levy of $645,160. Staff said there were no changes to the final levy since the preliminary certification.

Key budget elements: the proposed 2026 budgets include utility rate increases — water by 7%, sewer by 2% and storm by 10% — reflected in the enterprise funds; four technical changes were made to the budget book that do not affect the general fund or levy; salary increases for non‑represented employees were proposed as a 3% increase effective the first pay period of January 2026. City staff also described transfers and debt payments in the revised 2025 figures.

Why it matters: the levy and rate adjustments will affect property owners and utility customers. City Manager Rodriguez and budget staff thanked department directors, budget manager Steve McDaniel, and community members who participated in the truth‑in‑taxation hearing process.

Council action: After staff comments and brief council discussion, the council approved the resolutions by unanimous roll call.

What’s next: The adopted budgets and levy will be reflected in the 2026 budget book and staff will implement the stated rate and pay schedule changes starting with January 2026 pay periods.