City Council sets 2.99% levy increase for 2026

The Grand Marais City Council approved the city’s 2026 budget and levy at its meeting on Monday, Dec. 22.

The council unanimously approved a 2.99% levy increase.

In September, the council set the preliminary levy at a 4.97% increase. Since then, council members and city administration staff have worked to reduce the preliminary levy amount.

During the Dec. 11 city council meeting, City Administrator Mike Roth said one factor contributing to the reduction in the levy amount is increased revenue from the Grand Marais Recreation Park.

Revenue from the recreation park is projected to increase by $677,000 over expenses in 2026, Roth said. The projected increase stems from the recently approved rate increases for campground sites and recreation park rental fees, among other factors. “The rec park continues to be an excellent source of revenue,” Roth said.

Kalli Hawkins December 23, 2025