The budget staff finalizes the Mayor's recommendations and produces a Mayor's Proposed Budget book. The Mayor then submits the recommended budget to the City Council by August 15, as required by the City Charter. In August, the City Council begins reviewing the Mayor's Proposed Budget. During this time the City Council holds meetings with departments to obtain a clear understanding of the department's goals, service priorities, and objectives that are represented in the proposed budget. As required by state law, the City Council sets the maximum tax levy for the City in September.
Governmental units can adjust budgets, resulting in property taxes less than the projected amount.
The City Council holds public hearings on the budget. Ramsey County mails property tax statements to property owners indicating the maximum amount of property taxes that the owner will be required to pay. State law requires the City to hold a joint meeting with the County and School District. This meeting is held in early December. The City Council then adopts a budget and tax levy for the City.