Ramsey County Board Approves Urgent 8.25% Tax Levy Cut

UPDATE: The Ramsey County Board has just approved an 8.25% tax levy increase for 2026, a significant reduction from the earlier proposed maximum of 9.75%. This unanimous decision was made during a board meeting on December 11, 2023, amidst ongoing budget constraints and rising demands for county services.

The newly confirmed operating budgets stand at $924,063,479 for 2026 and $962,473,868 for 2027, showcasing a decrease from prior proposals. This marks a reduction from the initially suggested $929.25 million for 2026 and $968.45 million for 2027. The board’s decision is a response to community feedback and a need for fiscal responsibility.

Why This Matters: The adjustments come at a critical time as the county faces increasing costs and limited revenue growth. Nearly 46% of the budget relies on property taxes, with officials citing rising expenses and state and federal mandate pressures as key factors driving budgetary changes.

During the meeting, County Manager Ling Becker emphasized the importance of flexibility in managing the county’s operations. “This budget reflects the reality, and the board has made intentional choices to reduce that impact as much as possible,” stated Mai Chong Xiong, District 6 Commissioner. The board is working to navigate the challenging financial landscape while still meeting community needs.

Budget Cuts: Significant reductions have been made, including cuts to state-mandated burial assistance for low-income residents and proposed funding for community engagement by the Ramsey County Sheriff. District 1 Commissioner Tara Jebens-Singh remarked on the difficult trade-offs, noting, “These cuts were not taken lightly.”

As the county strives to balance its budget, officials reaffirmed that spending on non-profit partners, which accounted for about 4% of the budget in 2024, is not the primary driver of cost increases. Instead, rising personnel costs and service demands are placing additional strains on financial resources.

For those wanting further details on the county budget changes, you can access more information at tinyurl.com/3sjr5uz2.

The ripple effects of this budget decision will undoubtedly impact many residents and services throughout Ramsey County. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and engaged as the county navigates these challenging fiscal waters.