Bemidji City Council Sets Preliminary Tax Levy at 7.1%
What happened
The Bemidji City Council voted to set the preliminary tax levy at 7.1% during a council meeting on September 22, 2026. The vote was 6-1, with Josh Peterson being the only council member to vote against the preliminary levy. Council members stated they supported the increase to help offset rising costs for citizens, such as high gas prices.
From bemidjipioneer.com
Why it matters
This preliminary levy establishes the ceiling within which the city can levy property taxes for the 2027 general fund budget. Council members noted they would not support the 7.1% increase in the final budget, which is due in December, and preferred a number closer to last year's 4% increase.
From bemidjipioneer.com
Who's involved
- city councilThe legislative body responsible for setting the city's property tax levy.
- RichardsonThe current Mayor, who stated he would not support the 7.1% increase in the final budget.
- Josh PetersonThe council member who was the lone vote against the preliminary tax levy.
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The entities involved
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city council
legislative body that governs a city, municipality or local government area