Overview
- Crosslake Mayor Jackson Purfeerst released a public letter and video Monday signed by 98 mayors representing roughly 541,000 residents across metro and Greater Minnesota.
- The mayors cite the disappearance of a $18 billion surplus in a single biennium and a projected $2.9–$3 billion deficit for 2028–29 as signs of inconsistent fiscal management.
- Preliminary data show 2026 city levies could rise up to 8.7% and county levies up to 8.1%, with statewide property taxes estimated to increase by about $950 million, or 6.9%, year over year.
- The coalition argues unfunded mandates and cost shifts are driving local tax hikes, with the Jan. 1 paid family and medical leave program described by the letter’s author as a new payroll‑tax‑like burden on employers and employees.
- Republican leaders echoed the concerns and blamed Gov. Tim Walz and DFL policies, while DFL leaders have defended recent spending as deliberate investments in statewide priorities.