Oakdale adopts proposed 2026 property tax levy of $20.46 million, schedules Dec. 9 truth‑and‑taxation meeting

The Oakdale City Council on Sept. 9 adopted Resolution 2025‑83 to set the proposed 2026 property tax levy at $20,461,585, a figure staff described as a 7% increase (about $1.3 million) from the 2025 levy, and set the required truth‑and‑taxation public meeting for Dec. 9, 2025.

Finance staff member Christina told the council the city must certify a preliminary levy to Washington County by Sept. 30 and that by law the levy may only decrease between preliminary certification and final adoption (scheduled for Dec. 29). Christina said the proposed levy reflects favorable bond sale results (2025A) that reduced some debt service costs, a reduction in the municipal building levy from $135,000 to $70,000 funded by bond premium, and ongoing budgetary priorities such as staffing, equipment repair and public safety coverage.

Christina presented illustrative impacts: at the proposed levy level the median residential property in Oakdale (stated value $346,200 and a year‑over‑year value increase referenced in discussion) was estimated in the meeting to see the city’s share of the tax bill rise by about $46.88 for 2026 (roughly $3.91 per month). Council members thanked staff for the work on the budget and emphasized that the council will continue working to reduce the levy between preliminary and final adoption.

By motion and voice vote the council adopted Resolution 2025‑83 and established Dec. 9, 2025 as the date for the truth‑and‑taxation meeting; the final levy will be adopted no later than Dec. 29, 2025 after required notice and the public hearing process.

The preliminary levy certification starts the statutory notice process and triggers Washington County to prepare property tax notices; residents who receive proposed‑tax notices in November may attend the Dec. 9 hearing or submit questions to city staff.