North Liberty holds public hearing on FY2026–27 budget; city levy proposed to rise 1.3%

City administrator Ryan presented highlights of the proposed fiscal year 2026–27 budget on March 24, saying the plan would take effect July 1 and include staff additions and several capital projects. “We’re anticipating in this FY 27 budget about 2,800,000 in revenue,” Ryan said, referring to the new local‑option sales tax expected to begin collection July 1.

Ryan told the council the budget adds two full‑time firefighters, two full‑time sewer/stormwater laborers and a 0.5‑FTE event lead for the Hy‑Vee Center. He also described capital work outlined in the city’s capital improvements plan, including locker‑room remodels at the aquatic center, the Cherry Street firehouse project, expansion of parks and maintenance shops, road work on Forevergreen, a final phase of Ranchaw Way (supported with about $3 million in federal funds), sanitary‑sewer upgrades and a water‑treatment plant upgrade.

Mayor Chris Hoffman and Ryan both explained the difference between the city’s proposed levy change and the net effect on homeowners of the state rollback formula. After a resident asked whether the levy increase equated to a 5% rise in taxes, the mayor responded that while the city’s levy is proposed to increase, the rollback typically reduces the net tax paid by homeowners and the two figures are not identical.

The council opened the required public hearing on the tax levy and allowed several minutes for public comment. After hearing from county and resident speakers, Mayor Hoffman closed the hearing and later the council approved Resolution 2026‑29 to set the second required budget hearing for April 14. The council will consider adoption following the second hearing.