City Council Approves Levy, Budget

The Eagan City Council unanimously approved a levy and budget Tuesday night that city leaders call prudent, and now the public can have their say.

The council approved a property tax levy that decreased 2.9 percent to $27.4 million. They also passed a $28 million budget that increased 1.3 percent. The increase comes from personnel costs such as health insurance, and a bump in fuel costs. City leaders plan to pay for increases with non-tax revenues.

"There's really some good news here," said Mayor Mike Maguire.

Councilmember Gary Hansen said he thinks "this is a very disciplined and frugal budget."

Maguire said the public can comment on the budget and levy between now and December. "And we say, 'What do you think?'" Maguire said.

On Dec. 6, a public hearing will take place so city officials can listen to comments. On Dec. 20, the final levy and budget will be approved.

State law mandates that after initial approval, the levy can be decreased but not increased.