by Anna Phalen
Correspondent

The Crookston City Council held its annual Truth in Taxation meeting Monday, Dec. 1. Interim City Administrator Darrin Selzler presented a detailed PowerPoint outlining the city’s proposed 2026 budget and tax levy.

Selzler summarized projected revenues and expenditures for 2026, reviewed both the 2026 and 2027 budget timelines, and explained the anticipated impact of the 2026 tax levy on residential properties. He also noted that numerous reductions were made to the Capital Improvement Projects list to help control costs.

According to Selzler, the statewide average proposed levy increase sits at 8.7%, while Crookston’s is expected to land closer to 5%.
The city’s budget is funded primarily through two sources: Local Government Aid and the property tax levy. The preliminary levy was originally set at 8%, meaning the final levy may be 8% or less under state statute.

A public comment period was opened during the meeting; however, no residents chose to speak or submit questions.
The council is expected to set and approve the 2026 property tax levy at a special meeting Monday, Dec. 29 at 5:30 p.m.