The 2023 budget represents all departments’ efforts to provide the expected level of service while working to keep costs down in a difficult economy. Expenses across all funds rose 8% to $115.4 million in 2023. The total budget is funded through property taxes, sales taxes, investment income, use of reserves, public utilities and other sources like grants, fines, fees, licenses and permits. The City of West Fargo is one of multiple taxing entities in West Fargo property owners’ consolidated property tax statement.

Expenses paid through property taxes rose $4.25 million, but the City plans to only increase property taxes by $2.6 million. The City will balance the remaining costs with investment interest, use of general and special revenue fund reserves, and a projected increase in state aid and highway tax revenue.