The Blue Earth City Council has yet to finalize its 2026 budget and tax levy, but officials say they have significantly reduced a proposed increase that initially topped 50%.
A special council meeting is scheduled for next Monday, at 5pm, to approved the final budget and levy.
Mayor Rick Scholtes said city staff and department heads worked extensively over the past several months to lower the proposed tax levy increase from 51%, first discussed in September, to the current 13%.
“That’s still a big number, but there are some important things people need to remember,” Scholtes said. He noted that new buildings added to the tax rolls and the annexation of Riverside Heights contributed to higher city expenses.
City Administrator Dawn Collins will present a finalized budget at Monday’s special meeting, showing projected revenues, expenses and overall balance. Multiple options were discussed at the council’s last meeting, but officials wanted a clearer picture before making a final decision.
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