Stearns County Sets 2015 Budget, Levy

ST. CLOUD -- A number of Stearns County property owners may see a decrease in the county portion of their property taxes in 2015.

The board of commissioners have approved a preliminary budget and tax levy for at Tuesday's meeting.

County Administrator George Rindelaub says they will spend 1.6% less next year with a budget of nearly $140,000,000. The tax levy is up by 1.8%.

But, Rindelaub says a growing tax base will mean the average property owner will see a decrease on the county portion of their tax statement.  On average, a $200,000 home will see a decrease of about $15 on the county portion of the taxes. Most business property taxes will go down by about $50 per year.

Rindelaub says the tax rate is going up primarily due to less state and federal aid next year.

The truth-in-taxation hearing will be held December 2nd.