Shakopee 2013 Budget and Preliminary Levy Increase

The Shakopee city council approved a preliminary tax levy increase of 4.5 percent last week for the 2013 budget.

Mayor Brad Tabke discussed plans for the budget in a recent blog post. The council passed many of the items with a 3-2 vote, he noted.

"Here is what we're doing," Tabke said.

He described the following:

• $500,000 for road, sewer, and trail capital improvements
• $300,000 for economic development
• The hiring of new city staff: human resources technician, natural resources technician, and crime prevention specialist
• Potential plans to add fire fighters to the fire department and possible fire station
• Funds to pay off debts

"I feel this budget positions Shakopee much better for our future and to get more done effectively for our residents and businesses," Tabke said.

He also described budget cuts that he said would save the city $31,500.

“In 2013 you will no longer see the Hometown Messenger, Shakopee Public Access Channel, employment ads in the newspapers or overtime (weekend) help at Derby Days,” Tabke said.

The city has more work to do before the final budget approval in December, Tabke added.

Click here to read the full post and the impact on households.