St. Cloud City Council Finalizes Preliminary 2025 Budget, Levy

(KNSI) – St. Cloud made no changes Monday night as the city set its preliminary levy and budget for 2025.

The $89,808,200 budget was first introduced in August. It’s a 2.31% increase from 2024. The property tax levy is a 1.34% increase, generating $197,800 in funds due to the growth in the tax base. Mayor Dave Kleis explained the approval means it “basically sets the top end, or the bar for raising the levy, which we’re not. We’re keeping the tax rate flat. So, the council approved that unanimously and it’s now done with the budget. What this does [is] it says that the budget cannot raise property taxes above what was approved tonight.”

Property tax statements will be sent to residents in November.

The budget and levy set the spending guidelines for the city’s operations.

This is Kleis’ last budget before he steps away from public office in January. Earlier this year, he announced he wouldn’t seek another term but took the time to highlight something he’s proud of regarding the city’s checkbook: “We’re spending about $6 million less, if you adjust for inflation, than the very first budget I did back in 2005.”

Before its formal adoption, a final public hearing will be held during the December 2nd city council meeting.

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