International Falls presents $4.98 million preliminary 2026 levy; residents push back over wage increases and valuation-driven spikes

CITY OF INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minn. — City finance officer Emma Rudd told residents at a Dec. 1 Truth in Taxation public hearing that the City of International Falls' preliminary 2026 tax levy is $4,978,484 and the packet before the council reflects that figure as the worst-case scenario the city must present under state law.

Rudd said the levy is allocated across six municipal funds, with the general government fund accounting for roughly 51% of levy-supported spending. "After the adoption of a 2026 preliminary levy, the levy can be lowered, but it cannot be, increased," she said, describing the statutory timeline that requires a preliminary levy in September and a final levy certified in December.

Why it matters: Rudd told the public the preliminary levy reflects several priorities identified during budget work sessions: maintaining public safety and emergency services; finding a long-term solution for the ambulance service deficit; replenishing general fund reserves; and pursuing sustainable budgeting. She said inflation, rising employee wages and benefits, higher workers' compensation premiums, and a state-mandated paid-leave program also contributed to higher…