UPDATE: The Ramsey County Board has just announced an 8.25% tax levy increase for 2026, down from a previously proposed maximum of 9.75%. This significant decision, made during a board meeting on December 12, 2023, also includes a reduced operating budget for 2026 totaling $924,063,479 and $962,473,868 for 2027.
This urgent update comes as county officials face rising costs and increasing demand for services, necessitating strategic budget cuts. The board’s unanimous decision reflects a response to community feedback, addressing the financial pressures impacting residents and services.
County Manager Ling Becker highlighted the difficult choices made to balance the budget, stating, “This budget reflects the reality, and the board has made intentional choices to reduce that impact as much as possible.” The adjustments, while providing some flexibility for county operations, also involve painful tradeoffs affecting essential services.
Amidst shifting federal funding and rising operational costs, the county is grappling with a budget that relies heavily on property taxes—nearly 46% of revenues. District 6 Commissioner Mai Chong Xiong emphasized the importance of these changes, saying that the budget aims to cushion the impact of external financial stressors on local communities.
The 2026 budget represents a decrease from earlier proposals, with the original budget anticipated at $929.25 million and the 2027 estimate at $968.45 million. The revised figures reflect a concerted effort to manage taxpayer dollars more effectively while still addressing community needs.
Budget cuts will affect various areas, including state-mandated burial assistance for low-income residents and funding for community engagement initiatives proposed by the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office. District 1 Commissioner Tara Jebens-Singh remarked on the challenges faced by the community, stating, “We heard folks who were feeling the pain about shifts in services that were happening within their staffing units, within their community.”
Moreover, the board is responding to concerns raised during the county’s truth in taxation hearing on December 11, 2023, regarding spending with nonprofit partners. Although such spending comprises around 4% of the county budget, Becker clarified that it is not the primary driver of cost increases, which stem from personnel costs and service demands.
As the board moves forward, residents will see a direct impact on essential services and community support systems. The county remains committed to ensuring funds are utilized effectively, with ongoing performance monitoring in place to prevent misuse.
Looking ahead, community members are encouraged to stay engaged and informed about further developments regarding the budget. For more detailed information on the recent changes, visit tinyurl.com/3sjr5uz2.
This urgent update underscores the ongoing financial challenges facing Ramsey County and the proactive measures being taken to address them, emphasizing the need for community support during these trying times.