St. Paul Public Schools to Reduce Annual Levy by 2% in 2026 Budget
St. Paul Public Schools is planning to decrease its annual levy by 2% in the upcoming 2026 budget, a move that reflects changes in state funding for retiree health insurance, pensions, severance, and unemployment payments. The district’s executive chief of financial services, Tom Sager, will present details on the levy for taxes payable in 2026 at a Truth in Taxation hearing on Tuesday at 6 p.m. in the district administration building.
The levy amount for the 2026-2027 school year is set at $216.48 million, which is approximately 2% less than the previous year. This reduction is largely attributed to changes in how the state factors costs for retiree health insurance, pensions, severance, and unemployment payments, resulting in lower overall expenses for the district. In contrast, the district’s total levy has increased by an average of 3.5% per year over the past five levy cycles.
Levy Referendum and District Funding
In November, voters approved a special school levy referendum to increase property taxes and provide additional funding for the district over the next ten years. The referendum, which received 65% of the vote, will increase the district’s general revenue by $1,073 per pupil, with the amount subject to increase with inflation. This is not the first time voters have approved a levy referendum, with similar measures passing in 2018, 2012, and 2006.
General fund revenue accounts for approximately 76% of the school district’s budget. The district’s general fund totals have fluctuated over the years, with notable increases in recent years. For example, the general fund total was $562.2 million in 2015-2016, $703.7 million in 2021-2022, and $767 million in 2025-2026. Property taxes make up 21.56% of total district revenue, with total property taxes per student in the district amounting to $5,914, compared to $7,804 in Minneapolis Public Schools.
Upcoming Hearing and Budget Details
Residents can attend the Truth in Taxation hearing on Tuesday to learn more about the district’s budget and levy for the upcoming year. The hearing will provide an opportunity for community members to ask questions and gain a better understanding of the district’s financial plans. The levy amount is expected to be certified by the board on December 16.
For more information on the St. Paul Public Schools’ tax levy and budget, residents can attend the hearing or visit the district’s website. The district’s budget and financial plans are subject to change, and community input is valued in the decision-making process. To stay informed, visit the district’s website or attend upcoming meetings and hearings.
Learn more about the St. Paul Public Schools’ tax levy and budget Here
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