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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Carolyn Marinan, Communications, 612-910-9111
Today, the Hennepin County Board approved a 2025 budget of $3.10 billion. The budget includes a net property tax levy totaling $1.05 billion, a 5.5% increase from 2024. Both the operating and the capital budgets are reflected in the budget and levy.
The 2025 budget focuses on disparity reduction and climate action across all lines of county business and invests in programs and services that aim to improve long-term outcomes for residents in the areas of education, employment, health, housing, income, justice, and connectivity.
“We are committed to supporting our Hennepin County residents and making sure their critical needs are met,” said County Board Chair Irene Fernando. “It is particularly important that we bolster our safety net health care system for the health and safety of our entire community.”
Operating budget
The operating portion of the 2025 budget totals $2.54 billion, an increase of 5.6% or $135 million dollars from the adjusted 2024 budget. The county’s operating budget funds the day-to-day services for residents, like plowing roads, library services and providing support for vulnerable residents. Property tax covers approximately 34 percent of the overall county budget. Federal and state sources, fees and services, and other revenues fund the remainder of the budget.
A major cost driver in the budget are expenses for delivering these services, including employee pay and benefits.
“Hennepin County is committed to providing a competitive pay and benefits package to its employees while remaining responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars” said Board Chair Irene Fernando.
The approved budget provides a 4% general salary adjustment and merit increases for eligible employees for each of the next three years. This is reflected in ratified union contracts and applies to all non-organized employees.
The 2025 budget recognizes the vital contributions of our employees, supports their well-being, and aligns with the county's goal of providing high-quality services to the residents in a sustainable and responsible manner.
Capital budget
The capital portion of the 2025 budget totals $568 million, which is $116 million more than the 2024 adjusted capital budget. The capital budget includes investment in infrastructure like roads, transportation and buildings to meet current and future needs. The 2025 capital budget finances projects such as:
- The METRO Blue Line Light Rail Extension
- Assessing and maintaining roads, bridges, and trails
- Investment in environment and energy infrastructure
- Investment in Public Safety and Judiciary facilities and infrastructure
Budget process
The board approved the 2025 budget after more than ten months of preparations and hearings.
Most recently, the board made final budget amendments on November 21 and held the annual Truth in Taxation hearing on December 3. Learn more on the Hennepin County budget webpage.
hennepin.us/budgets
Look for more news on the Hennepin County website at hennepin.us/news.
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