(LIVE) City of Dubuque Public Hearing to Adopt the FY 2027 Budget | April 28, 2026

The City of Dubuque held a public hearing on April 28, 2026, to discuss and adopt the amended fiscal year 2027 budget. The meeting focused heavily on budget allocations, including no increase in the property tax rate, utility rate increases for water, sanitary sewer, storm water, and solid waste collection, and a $240 million capital improvement plan over six years. Public input raised concerns about the methodology used for administrative overhead cost allocations to enterprise funds, with some citizens questioning the fairness and legality of the current approach and its impact on utility rates. The council acknowledged these concerns and expressed intent to review the cost allocation methodology. The budget was ultimately adopted with a 7-0 vote, including approval of the proposed water rates for FY 2027. Discussions also covered infrastructure projects, maintenance of city facilities, and the importance of transparency and fiscal responsibility in budgeting.