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Columbia Heights board adopts 6.7% levy increase to fund Valley View projects
Summary
After the statutorily required Truth in Taxation hearing, the Columbia Heights board approved a $15.65 million levy for taxes payable 2026, a 6.7% increase largely driven by debt service for the Valley View Elementary projects; the average estimated impact is about $76 a year on a $275,000 home.
Columbia Heights Public Schools on Tuesday approved the district’s 2025 payable 2026 levy of $15,649,287 — a 6.7% increase the board certified after a required Truth in Taxation public hearing.
At the hearing Matthew Hammer, senior municipal adviser with Ehlers, outlined statewide funding pressures and the district’s FY26 budget context. He said general fund revenue and state aid remain the district’s primary funding sources and that the proposed levy increase — about $979,000 in total — is driven mainly by the Valley View Elementary construction and associated debt service included in the district’s long‑term facilities maintenance plan.
“The main driver of this change is the district’s projects for the Valley View Elementary site,” Hammer said, adding the district had included estimated debt service levies for the first payment due in fiscal 2027.
Hammer presented examples of expected homeowner impact and noted that the average residential home valued at $275,000 would see an estimated increase of about $76 a year (roughly $6 per month). He also reviewed state programs that can mitigate property tax increases for some households, including the Homestead Credit Refund and tax deferral options for seniors.
Board members asked clarifying questions about timing and financing. Hammer confirmed the district plans to sell bonds next month so interest costs begin when funds are needed, and he said an estimated $900,000 long‑term facilities maintenance component is reflected in the levy spreadsheet.
After the presentation Director Hennigan moved to approve the levy as presented; Michelle moved, Julie seconded, and the board approved the levy in a roll‑call vote with Palmer, Poole, Medeiros, Mueller, Pettway and Chair Granlund recorded as voting aye.
The board’s certification of the levy concludes the statutory process; property owners will receive final tax statements in the spring when counties finalize valuations and tax statements.
