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Cokato council debates proposed 20% levy increase for 2025, directs staff to draft street-assessment policy
Summary
At its Aug. 19 meeting the Cokato City Council discussed a proposed 20% property tax levy increase for 2025 and voted to develop (but not adopt) a policy for raising funds for street work; council set further budget discussion for September.
Cokato — The Cokato City Council discussed a proposed 20% levy increase for the 2025 budget at its Aug. 19 meeting and instructed staff to develop a policy to guide future street-assessment or tax changes.
City Administrator Brad Potter presented an early budget update that showed a 20% proposed levy increase for 2025; members described the proposed jump as large compared with neighboring cities. Council Member Sebring said the increase “is appropriate” to begin catching up on needed projects, and Council Member Erickson signaled agreement. Potter asked the council to develop a clear plan outlining which streets and projects would be fixed so the public can understand the need.
On a motion by Council Member Hermansen, seconded by Council Member Wilson, the council voted unanimously to direct staff to develop a policy for raising funds for street work but did not adopt any change at this meeting. The council scheduled further budget work and public discussion for September.
The conversation also included staff recommendations that costs are high for immediate action and that outreach to the public about priorities will be part of the next steps. No formal budget adoption or tax change occurred at the Aug. 19 meeting; any levy increase would require later votes and public notice under state law.
