City leaders began the process of determining Duluth’s city budget for 2025 on September 9 as Mayor Roger Reinert presented an overview of his budget proposal to city councilors.

During his presentation, Mayor Reinert broke down his strategic priorities for the budget, such as affordable property taxes and growing the commercial tax base – while also addressing budget challenges such as aging infrastructure.

The proposal calls for a maximum increase of the property tax levy, that’s the total amount the city collects, to be increased by less than 2% or just under $800,000.

Mayor Reinert believes the increase will be in line with his promise of giving taxpayers a break when it comes to property tax increases.

“it’s the start of a conversation and not the end of one, but one that we believe is consistent with a message I’ve given the community as well as when we think allows us to do our city work as well as make a few key investments.” The mayor said in his presentation.

The budget proposal calls for, among other new additions, a pilot program to hire new firefighters in an attempt to combat burnout amongst staff, as well as reduce overtime costs to the city.

“I think we’re all in agreement that something needs to change. We cannot continue to put our firefighters in this much of a stressful time where they get no time off. They’re missing vacation. They’re missing time with their families.” Explained Duluth Fire Chief Shawn Krizaj.

On September 13, City Councilors will attend an eight hour budget meeting to have the full budget broken down completely.