O'Fallon council adopts annual property tax levy after heated public comments
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Summary
The O'Fallon City Council adopted its annual property tax levy on Dec. 15, 2025, after public criticism from residents and a debate among councilmembers about timing and necessity; council members defending the levy said funds are needed for pensions and fire services.
The O'Fallon City Council voted on Dec. 15 to adopt the city's annual property tax levy for the fiscal year beginning May 2025, following public comment and a divided council debate.
During the public-comment period, resident Doug James urged the council to "hold the levy flat in dollars," saying the proposed increase would burden residents on fixed incomes and called for a full budget review for efficiency before next year. On the dais, Councilmember Roche reiterated opposition to raising the levy, saying the city is "asking for more dollars" and that the timing is poor for residents who face rising living costs.
An unnamed council member offered a different perspective, noting that the property tax levy "makes up what, like, 1% of our overall operating budget" and that requested funds are intended to meet contractually obligated pensions and to address underfunding in fire and EMS. The council also referenced prior strategic planning that directed staff to seek alternative revenues for fire services, but members said those alternatives are not yet in place.
After discussion, the roll-call vote was held and the motion to approve the annual levy on second reading carried. Several councilmembers voted against the measure during debate; the official record shows opposition from multiple members before the motion passed.
The ordinance authorizes the city to levy the amount on property taxpayers needed to fund the listed obligations for the coming budget year. The council signaled the levy and calendar will be evaluated before setting the 2027 schedule and that staff will continue to explore revenue alternatives.
Votes at a glance: the second-reading motion to adopt the annual levy was approved by roll call (motion carries).
