New survey shows Dakota County voters are willing to pay more taxes to keep services

Dakota County is considering significant levy increases and cuts to staff and services for next year’s budget.

A surprising new survey shows a large percentage of people in the county are willing to pay more taxes to keep services.

Dakota County Commissioner Joe Atkins conducted a survey in his weekly newsletter asking readers to weigh in on the budget.

About 61% selected a 21% levy increase and $5 million in cuts, which is about $167 more on a median-value home. That’s compared to only 12% who selected a 16% levy increase and $14 million in cuts, which is about $123 more on a home.

Commissioner Atkins says he was surprised by the results but calls it a small, unscientific survey.

The next tax open house where the public can weigh in will be on Sept. 10th at 5 p.m. at the Dakota County Western Service Center in Apple Valley.

The Dakota County Board will vote on the 2027 budget in Decem...