New Prague City Council sets preliminary 2025 property tax levy at $5,685,800

The New Prague City Council approved a preliminary property tax levy of $5,685,800 — a figure the city described as a 7% increase over the 2024 levy — and scheduled a public hearing on Dec. 1 to set the final levy for taxes payable in 2026.

Council finance discussion and staff presentation: City staff introduced the proposed levy as a preliminary figure required to be reported to the department of revenue each September so counties can issue preliminary tax statements. The number, staff said, represents a top‑end estimate to give staff and the council flexibility while finalizing the budget through December.

Why it matters: The council emphasized that the preliminary levy is a reporting requirement and that the final levy can be adjusted downward as budget work continues. Staff said the practice of setting a slightly higher preliminary levy allows the city to avoid returning to the council if unforeseen items arise late in the year.

Council action: A council member moved to adopt Resolution No. 2590201 setting the proposed property tax levy at $5,685,800; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote (announced in the meeting as "Passes 4-0").

What comes next: A public hearing to consider the final levy will be held on Dec. 1, when the council will adopt the 2025 final property tax levy for taxes payable in 2026 or adjust the preliminary figure based on budget decisions and public comment.