Press Release edited by Shea Smith / photo courtesy of Vivienne Leyva, Communications & Marketing Manger/PIO of City of Manhattan
July 7 will see City of Manhattan Commissioners considering exceeding the Revenue Neutral Rate for the 2027 budget. More budget discussion will follow before final adoption on September 15.
The Revenue Neutral Rate is the property tax rate that would bring in the same amount of tax revenue as the previous year, even if property values have changed.
Several key issues are the focus of the rate, including rising property valuations, the City’s debt obligations, service levels, and whether additional reductions are possible.
According to the city manager, property tax representation in the budget is 23.7% for City departments and services, while only 11.8% of a Manhattan resident’s total property tax bill is used to fund city services and debt. The rest is distributed to the state, counties, schools, police, and libraries, among others.
Commissioners are also discussing sales tax renewal options as existing dedicated sales taxes for road maintenance and quality of life approach expiration.
Residents who want to stay informed can watch or attend future discussions and contact City Commissioners with feedback as the process continues.