Windsor Heights adopts FY27 budget with modest levy adjustments

Windsor Heights City Council approved its fiscal‑year 2027 operating budget following a public hearing on April 20, adopting a 9‑cent increase in the city levy rate to fund ongoing operations and infrastructure improvements while reducing the Windsor Heights DART levy by 5 cents.

The budget presentation, given by city staff, described targeted reductions (including part‑time and seasonal staffing and contracted planning and landscaping services) and new investments, such as expanded overnight fire and EMS staffing and funding for a comprehensive plan update. The staff estimate presented that a $200,000 taxable valuation would translate to roughly an $8 annual tax increase under the proposed levy changes.

Council also reviewed the FY27 outside organization funding list during the hearing. Members questioned the value of a $1,500 allocation to the Greater Des Moines Partnership and asked whether Windsor Heights was separately recognized on the partnership’s membership materials. Staff said membership tiers and regional benefits exist and offered to return with clarified details; council agreed to remove or set that line item to zero in the resolution for now and asked staff to bring a separate resolution if the council later chooses to fund the partnership.

A resident spoke during public comment raising concerns about household tax impacts and recurring flooding at a converted condo building; staff offered to provide specific tax‑impact numbers at City Hall to assist that resident. Councilmembers emphasized cautious budgeting and instructed staff to continue identifying reductions where possible.

The council moved to close the public hearing and approved the budget by roll call. The adopted resolution includes the levy adjustments and the line items described in the staff presentation. Staff said they will proceed with implementation and return with any follow‑up materials requested by councilmembers.