Public Hearing for the FY2027 Amount of Proposed Property Tax Rate | March 23, 2026

The City of Dubuque Government held a public hearing on March 23, 2026, to discuss the Fiscal Year 2027 proposed property tax rate and budget. The proposed property tax levy would increase from approximately $29.9 million to $32 million, a 6.93% rise, resulting in an average residential property tax increase of 3%. The council reviewed the impact on various property classes, historical context of state tax reforms reducing city revenues, and the city's budget challenges including internal loans and revenue projections. Public input included concerns about tax increases, calls for budget cuts, and requests for transparency on spending priorities. The council discussed options for holding budget items for further consideration during upcoming public hearings and agreed to add an agenda item at each meeting to review held items. A motion to adopt the proposed maximum property tax rate passed 4-3, setting the stage for detailed budget discussions in April with opportunities for amendments and public input before the final levy adoption by May 1, 2026.