Olmsted County response to August 28, 2026 KTTC report

Olmsted County is committed to being open and honest with residents in our community. During routine financial reviews earlier this year, our staff found a mistake in the 2026 property tax levy. It was reported right away and our county worked with the Minnesota Department of Revenue to determine the options to fix it.

As part of that corrective process, the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners approved the option to correct the error through the 2027 levy process. This means the county will securely hold additional funds collected in 2026 in an interest‑bearing account and apply the funds and interest to the 2027 levy. This will reduce the amount that would otherwise need to be collected from taxpayers next year. This method also avoids use of taxpayer funds this year on administrative costs that would be needed to pursue other options.

Since the error was discovered, we reviewed our internal processes to understand what went wrong. This was a process error — not the fault of any one employee or department. To help prevent this from happening again, we have already put new checks and balances in place. These include better crosschecks between departments, clearer documentation, and stronger review procedures before the levy is finalized.

We know this issue is concerning to taxpayers. This is your money, and we take that very seriously. We are not taking this matter lightly.

Olmsted County has hardworking staff who are committed to building a safe, healthy, welcoming community through public service excellence. Supporting employees is central to our culture and reflected throughout the organization in opportunities for training, professional development, and process improvements that equip staff to serve the community effectively. We always strive to do our best, but when we make mistakes as an organization, we acknowledge them, learn from them, and work to do what’s right for the residents of Olmsted County.