A coalition of 98 mayors from Minnesota has collectively addressed state leaders in a letter expressing their concerns about various pressing issues impacting local governance. The letter, sent on Monday, highlights apprehensions regarding widespread fraud, unfunded mandates from the state, and escalating cost pressures that are transferring the financial burden onto cities and taxpayers.
In their correspondence, the mayors emphasize that these financial pressures contribute to increased property tax levies, constraints on public safety staffing, and delays in crucial infrastructure projects. They reference the significant decline from a recent $18 billion budget surplus to a projected deficit of between $2.9 billion and $3 billion for the 2028-29 biennium, which they attribute to unstable fiscal management.
Additionally, the mayors cite alarming forecasts for property tax levies in 2026, with many municipalities facing an average increase of 8.7% and counties facing as much as an 8.1% rise. This situation reflects a trend of declining economic rankings that could threaten the quality of life for residents and the viability of local businesses.
The letter strongly advocates for better fiscal responsibility, stating, “Our residents deserve better than deficits, economic decline, and policies that push families and businesses away.” The mayors express their determination to support their communities, yet they warn that excessive state mandates and financial demands are becoming unsustainable.
They urge state leaders to take appropriate actions to correct current fiscal policies, emphasizing the important role of responsible governance in maintaining the welfare of Minnesota’s citizens. The letter serves as a reminder of the critical relationship between state policy and local community health, reinforcing the need for collaboration to ensure municipal stability and growth.