2027 Executive Budget and property tax increase
Summary
The mayor's proposed budget raises the city tax rate 2.78% — about $41 a year on a $250,000 home — while adding six positions and borrowing $7.84 million. For the first time in years, the city would borrow more than it pays off, and $3.5 million of reserves would be used.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 3
- Last 30 days
- 1
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Oct 26, 2026.
Impact analysis
A $250,000 home would pay about $41 more in city taxes per year ($3.44/month).
Residents gain expanded public safety staffing, road repairs, and updated equipment and technology.
Taxpayers face a higher city tax bill, and future councils inherit a larger debt schedule.
Mentions & discussions (3)
Common Council - Special Meeting - Oct 26, 2026
The mayor's proposed budget raises the city tax rate 2.78% — about $41 a year on a $250,000 home — while adding six positions and borrowing $7.84 million. For the first time in years, the city would borrow more than it pays off, and $3.5 million of reserves would be used.
Finance Committee - Aug 3, 2026
Mayor Nickels set a tight frame for the 2027 budget: hiring freeze, no new positions, a 5% cut target on department non-personnel costs, and a goal of reducing reliance on fund balance. Committee members split on whether a zero or minimal tax increase is realistic.
Personnel Committee - Aug 3, 2026
Mayor Nickels told the committee the 2027 budget is tight but stable — no new positions, none cut, and a hiring freeze through the end of 2026 for everyone except police and fire. Vacancies are being budgeted for 2027 unless efficiencies are found.
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