City proposes lower levy

City News November 26, 2025

The City of Albert Lea has decreased expenses for 2026 and lowered its proposed tax levy by $153,000. While still proposing a levy increase, it would be lower than first proposed, from 8.00% to 6.25%, as presented at the Nov. 24 city council work session.

The impact to individual homeowners depends on the property valuation set by Freeborn County:

• If the valuation stays the same, then city property taxes would actually decrease. That’s because the city has seen an increase in development and property values. In other words, the tax burden is spread among a higher number and higher value of properties.
• If the valuation has increased, then city taxes will also increase.

The council will vote on the final levy at its truth in taxation hearing Dec. 8 at 7 p.m. in the council chambers of City Hall, 221 E. Clark St.

Until then, make sure you receive a response to a question or have your opinion considered with an email or phone call to your city councilor. Find their phone numbers and emails on the city website.