The City of Roseville is in the home stretch of preparing its budget for 2027— here’s a look at the inner workings
Beginning with the citizens’ first peek at the proposed budget for 2027 on April 20, the levy has been up and down. It was first reported at 9.36% and by July 13 it had swelled to 11.95%. On August 24, City Manager Patrick Trudgeon and staff had worked to eliminate $1.5 million with a broad array of cuts outlined bringing the proposed levy to 7.8%.
However, in his budget analysis, Trudgeon noted that Roseville’s General Fund has fallen below its minimum, stating that “without additional levy support, the General Fund is not expected to sustainably replenish itself under current revenue conditions, and this challenge will continue in future budget cycles.”
Trudgeon added that “a structural adjustment must be made to ensure new levy dollars are directed to the General Fund to strengthen its balance. These additional levy funds would not go towards any specific expenditures; they would simply be used to increase the fund balance on hand.”
Based on this issue, Trudgeon proposed an additional 2% levy increase to generate some $660,000 to bolster the General Fund. He noted the deficit at the time:
“As per City policy, the General Fund reserves should be maintained at a minimum of 35% of next year’s operating budget, consistent with guidance from the Office of the State Auditor (OSA). Based on the proposed levy of 7.80% outlined above, the projected General Fund balance is short of the required reserve level by $1,394,607 or 4.22% additional levy.
The City Manager is recommending adding an additional 2% of levy increase on top of the base 7.8% levy increase. By adding an additional 2% levy or $660,974.82 to the General Fund, this gap will be reduced to $733,303.31.”
City Manager Trudgeon provided many options to meet the need for a 2% increase. With the 2% needed to begin to replenish the General Fund, the proposed budget for 2027 stands at 9.8%.
Moving forward, there are several dates, meetings and opportunities to speak and listen to the discussions that will establish the City portion of your taxes for 2027. Remember to watch for updates on other charges and fees for water and sewer and for Economic Development.
On Tuesday, the Finance Commission will discuss the proposed budget and formulate a final recommendation which will be made to the City Council Sept. 21.
On Sept. 28, the City Council will establish its “not to exceed” budget, tax levy and EDA Levy for 2027.
On Nov. 30, the City Council will hold a public hearing on these budget items. In a quick turnaround from the public hearing, the City Council will adopt a final budget, tax levy and EDA Levy on Dec. 7. Your City Taxes will be set for 2027!
Send in your comments or questions to Roseville Reporter and we will try to track down the answers for you. Email us at info@rosevillereporter.org.
