County Board approves 2016 budget with 0 percent levy increase

WASHINGTON D.C. – December 17, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — The St. Louis County Board has approved its 2016 budget in the amount of $358,733,410. Of most significance to tax payers is the fact that it includes no change in the levy, which will translate into a decrease in the county portion of property tax statements for most residents and business owners. The property tax levy, which is the amount of the budget that is collected through property taxes, will remain the same as it was this year at $116.6 million.

According to statistics from the Minnesota Department of Revenue, only 10 percent of counties in the state (eight) were able to hold their levy at a zero percent increase. The statewide average for counties was a 3.7 percent increase.

“It is really remarkable in these times that we have achieved a zero percent increase in the levy, and it is the culmination of a lot of work and some great ideas by my fellow commissioners and department heads,” said County Board Chair Pete Stauber. “It is important that we are ever mindful of the levy impact on our citizens and businesses.”

Added Commissioner Keith Nelson, who chairs the finance committee, “I am proud of the work of this Board. This budget continues to provide services and meets the needs of our citizens.”

Commissioner Stauber noted that the Board made it a priority throughout the year to work toward a zero levy increase while not cutting services. County leaders were able to accomplish this through a combination of managing expenses, including a decrease in the debt service levy; while maximizing other revenues.

The County Board unanimously approved the budget during its final meeting of the year, which was held at the St. Louis County Courthouse in Duluth.

CONTACT: Dana Kazel, Communications Manager
218-725-5049 (office) • 218-591-2219 (cell)