The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board presented a preliminary 2026 budget to the Board of Estimate and Taxation on June 25 that would increase property tax levies by 7.15%, up from an originally planned 6.33% increase.

The revised increase is primarily driven by higher-than-expected city charges to the Park Board, according to Deputy Superintendent Jennifer Ringold. The Park Board's general fund relies on property taxes for 82% of its funding, making it more dependent on that revenue source than the city.

Eight community members testified during public comment, advocating for continued park funding and opposing the proposed elimination of five ice rinks. Speakers emphasized the parks' role in providing stability for families, programming for youth, and community gathering spaces during winter months.

"Our neighborhood ice rink is the place where we can gather outside with friends and neighbors on cold, dark evenings," said Tony Tillman, a Northeast Minneapolis resident whose daughter learned to skate at Wyndham Park.

The Park Board will present its formal maximum property tax levy request to the BET in September. The preliminary budget includes workforce cost increases and funding for new facilities including Graco Park and Upper Harbor Terminal parks. To balance the 2025 budget, the Park Board implemented service reductions including shortened recreation center hours, Sunday closures, and the elimination of five ice rinks.