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Mayor Roger J. Reinert to recommend “Inflation-Only” 2.7% levy

[DULUTH, MN] In a committee of the whole address at tonight’s City Council agenda session, Mayor Roger J. Reinert will recommend a maximum property tax levy of 2.7% for the City of Duluth portion of property taxes.

“This will define the ceiling of what Duluth property taxpayers may be asked to contribute to the City’s general fund and is one of the most important fiscal decisions we make each year,” said Mayor Reinert.

Reinert said the total max levy of 4.1% is based on the trailing 12-month Consumer Price Index (CPI) measuring inflation in the economy and also captures 1.4% new growth in the Duluth tax base.

“We must address the projected $7.3 million deficit in 2026 while still making our portion of the levy both affordable and sustainable for property taxpayers. AN inflation-only 2.7% will keep Duluth’s levy the lowest among comparable municipalities in the state,” said Mayor Reinert.

Other budget strategies shared by Reinert include tighter departmental targets, administrative efficiencies, a review of all currently vacant positions, and addressing the sizeable Duluth Fire overtime budget.

Mayor Reinert will present his final 2026 budget to the City Council later this fall. City Councilors must vote on the maximum levy by September 30, and the final city budget by December 31.

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