Albert Park Approves 2026 Infrastructure Levy; Property Tax Increases Begin 2027

The Albert Park City Council passed the 2026 Infrastructure Levy on a 6-3 vote during its regular meeting on July 7, directing proceeds toward road resurfacing and park maintenance in three specific districts while imposing the charge on commercial and multi-unit residential properties valued above a set threshold.

Levy Details and Affected Groups

The measure applies the levy to parcels in the downtown core and two adjacent commercial zones, with rates calculated at 0.15 percent of assessed value according to the council's adopted budget papers. Single-family homeowners outside those zones see no direct charge, yet they gain access to the funded improvements through expanded trail connections and playground replacements scheduled for completion by late 2028.

Policy analysts note the levy replaces an expiring state grant program that previously covered similar work, shifting the funding source to local property records. Local advocates note that small retail operators in the levied zones will absorb the cost through higher rents or reduced operating hours, while residents in the three targeted districts receive the direct service additions.

Budget Figures and Next Steps

The council's budget papers project $3.2 million in first-year collections, allocated at $1.9 million for pavement work on Maple and Oak streets and $1.3 million for equipment and plantings at Riverside and Central parks. Implementation begins with assessment notices mailed in October, followed by contractor bids opened in January 2027 under the city's standard procurement rules.

Further council action on related zoning adjustments is listed for the August 4 agenda, with staff reports due by July 25 that will detail exact parcel boundaries and exemption criteria for nonprofit organizations already operating in the affected areas.