Local Government Aid alone covers nearly $35 million, about one-third of the budget. It’s the difference between black ink and red. Lose even 5 percent of that aid, and Duluth’s “balanced” budget implodes by millions. That’s not financial strength — that’s dependence disguised as stability.
Duluth’s short-term goal is tactical — keep Inland’s exclusivity alive, hit the paperwork milestones, and convince the Legislature to fund the $10.85 million in site-prep money the city calls the key that unlocks $250 million in private investment.
In 2025, for instance, they raised the levy by 1.85 percent but declared it a “0 percent” year for current taxpayers because new development supposedly absorbed the increase. But that’s a shell game. The levy still grew by nearly $800,000.
The city expects test results over the weekend and will share updates when available.
“From streets and utilities to parks and libraries, housing, public safety and economic development, the inaugural resident survey will shape decisions that impact every Duluthian.” -- Mayor Roger Reinert
"After reviewing the City’s finances, community needs, and individual economic realities, I have proposed a 2.7% inflation-only maximum levy for 2026." -- Reinert
Duluth will spotlight jobs and training this week as Mayor Roger Reinert proclaims Wednesday Workforce Development Day in the city. The declaration comes during Workforce Development Month, a statewide effort to highlight the programs and partnerships that connect Minnesotans to careers. Reinert will read the proclamation at a 1 p.
A windfall of state aid helped soften the edges. Local Government Aid jumped by $4.4 million in 2024, the largest increase in more than two decades and the equivalent of a double-digit property-tax hike. The city collected $35.2 million in aid in 2025, nearly one-third of its General Fund.
Public ceremonies like this one don’t always make the evening news. But they should. They are checkpoints in the life of a department that few of us notice until a siren wails down our street or a medic kneels over a loved one.
For now, give Reinert his due. The Auto Shoppers Ramp is finally going away, brick by stubborn brick, because he made it a priority. And if you squint past the dust, you can almost see a downtown Duluth that isn’t held together by plywood, nostalgia, and wishful thinking. Almost.
“For us to reach 90,000 residents by 2030, we must get serious about housing at all income levels — especially mid-market and for-purchase. We need all the options in all of Duluth’s neighborhoods, including downtown, and that means condos, townhouses, and more.” -- Duluth Mayor Roger Reinert
Authorities say Thorson later left the hospital without authorization, prompting a renewed search effort over the weekend.
City officials are also urging patience throughout the festival, with tens of thousands of visitors expected to flood into Canal Park and downtown Duluth. Significant traffic congestion is anticipated, and drivers are advised to plan alternate routes or consider walking and biking when possible.
“Craig really understands how to make people feel valued. It’s a big reason the whole course feels so positive right now. From check-in to the 18th green, you can tell the operation is built around strong leadership and taking care of people.” -- A longtime Enger Park golfer
By HOWIE HANSON Editor & Publisher DULUTH, Minn. — If there was ever a moment to lean into Duluth’s momentum as a regional youth sports capital, it’s now. The City of Duluth — under the proven, forward-thinking leadership of Mayor Roger Reinert — should immediately begin plans to finally build our
4th District Duluth City Councilor Swenson is a mom and highly-respected community leader, and knows firsthand how essential it is for families to have safe, reliable childcare options. She understands that this is a small but important step in addressing a much larger challenge.
