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On a budget

When it comes to Dakota County’s budget, the next big event is Sept. 14. On that day, the Dakota County Board of Commissioners will adopt what’s called the “maximum levy” during their regular board meeting at 9 a.m. Once adopted, the final levy cannot exceed the maximum, but it can be less than the maximum.

Historically, Dakota County has had the lowest tax rate of any county in the state. While in previous years the board has often given some indication on what they plan to do, this year it’s likely to remain a mystery until Sept. 14. But what is no mystery is the kind of fiscal challenge the county will face next year. With the state facing a multi-billion dollar deficit, county staff expects additional cuts in revenue from the state. A drop in the County’s tax base makes it increasingly challenging to make up for the lost revenue.

Other budget related activities include:

Nov. 2–5 the board will hold budget workshops to hear from county departments.
Nov. 30 is the public hearing and an opportunity for the public to comment on the proposed budget.
Dec. 14 the board adopts the final levy.

Visit our website for times and meeting locations for upcoming County Board meetings. If you have questions, please call or e-mail Matt Smith, Dakota County finance director, 651-438-4590 or matt.smith@co.dakota.mn.us.