Crystal, Golden Valley City Councils Approve Tax Levy Increases
City councils in Crystal and Golden Valley approved budget and levy increases on Tuesday, Dec. 2.
Homeowners in Crystal will see a double-digit increase in their property tax levy for 2026.
City staff and council members said the 15.8 percent tax increase will allow the city to catch up on deferred maintenance and stabilize depleted funding reserves. Likewise, it will pay for new staff members working in community development, police and forestry.
“We simply cannot afford to keep kicking the can down the road,” said City Manager Adam Bell. “I’m sorry that we’re at this point and the residents now are the ones who are living here and having to pay those taxes. But we are making progress.”
The general fund tax levy increased from $19.3 million for 2025 to $22.4 million in 2026.
Homeowners with a property value of $293,400 can expect to see a $243 yearly increase. That’s an increase of $20.25 per month.
Several residents spoke against the increase at the truth-in-taxation hearing, saying that rising taxes may force them out of their homes.
“I’ve lived in this house almost all my life,” said resident Robert Bellos Sr. “The bad news is, I have to tell you, we’re leaving Crystal. We’ve decided we’re not going to play this game anymore.”
The council acknowledged the levy increase is substantial, but said it should reduce the future tax burden.
“As long as I am on this council, this will be the highest levy for the remainder of my term,” said Council Member Taji Onesirosan.
The council voted unanimously to support the budget and levy.
Golden Valley’s property tax levy will increase 4.4 percent for 2026, bringing the total to $36.6 million.
Golden Valley Levy Increased 4.4 Percent
Golden Valley’s property tax levy will increase 4.4 percent for 2026, bringing the total to $36.6 million.
The 2025 levy totaled $35 million.
The increase pays for increased staffing in the police, human resources, code enforcement and finance departments.
Homeowners with a median value home of $447,200 can expect to see an increase of $108 per year. That equates to a $9 monthly increase.
“I think we’re at a really reasonable level that continues to provide the needs of our citizens while understanding that property taxes can be very burdensome,” said Council Member Sophia Ginis.
