Murray County board sets preliminary levy at 8.13% and schedules truth-and-taxation hearing

The Murray County Board on [date not specified in transcript] voted to set a preliminary levy reflecting an 8.13% increase and scheduled the required truth-and-taxation budget hearing for Nov. 25.

Katie, who presented the levy materials to the board, said the preliminary levy is used to produce the state’s estimated tax statements for taxpayers and that the proposed increase reflects department budget requests across major funds. "This is part of the state's truth and taxation process where we provide an estimated tax statement for taxpayers," Katie said, describing a breakdown across the general fund, road and bridge fund, and the human services fund.

Katie showed a preliminary levy worksheet comparing 2025 and 2026 figures and a hypothetical budget demonstrating how an 8.13% increase would affect fund balances and reserve use. She told the board the county typically sets the hearing as early as possible in the state window and recommended holding the hearing on Nov. 25 so the county meeting precedes local budget meetings.

After discussion, a board member moved, another seconded and the motion to adopt the preliminary levy and set the Nov. 25 hearing carried by voice vote.

The meeting packet included additional budget detail and a Northland Securities disclosure referenced by Katie; the board did not take final budget action at the meeting. The hearing set for Nov. 25 will be the opportunity for public comment and any final changes to the levy before certification.