Welcome to the Twin Ports Circus: Where Local Politics Make More Sense Than D.C.

It’s official—there’s a new trend in the Twin Ports: local government blogs popping up like dandelions in spring. And honestly? It’s refreshing. While the national news keeps tripping over itself with the latest drama out of D.C., it’s nice to see a focus on city councils, school boards, and county governments. Spoiler alert: no, your local councilors aren’t planning city business on Signal.

And speaking of Superior, friendly reminder: city elections are on Tuesday! So, if you’re tired of the same old political script, now’s your chance to do something about it.

Duluth’s State of the City: Tax Talk and Haunted Schools

The center of Duluth politics this month? The elusive and allegedly haunted auditorium at Ordean East Middle School. Picture this: Mayor Reinert breaking down the city’s financial future while former Mayor Don Ness tries to keep the crowd engaged with stories about the Ordeans. Meanwhile, a bunch of kids (dragged along by their dads) are trying to figure out why they’re stuck in a 90-minute budget presentation.

Here’s the Big News:

Mayor Reinert warned that without intervention, property taxes could skyrocket—16% this year, 8% next year. And just to be clear, that’s not his final proposal. Translation: We’ve got six months to pull some budget magic before the city levy vote in September. Finance Director Jen Carlson laid it out: Either cut the budget or grow the tax base. Spoiler: cutting more is like squeezing water from a rock.

But here’s the real question nobody seems to be asking: Why not look at cuts instead of just hitting taxpayers with another bill? Duluth’s population has shrunk, but somehow, the budget just keeps getting bigger. If the city itself is shrinking, why can’t the budget shrink too? Instead of working within the current budget, the city keeps trying to squeeze more out of the same—or even fewer—residents. It’s like trying to fit into your high school jeans without admitting you’ve gained a few pounds. At some point, it’s time to face reality.

Spirit Mountain: Still a Drain, Even If It’s Not Your Property Taxes

Let’s set the record straight: Just because Spirit Mountain doesn’t directly use property tax dollars doesn’t mean Duluthians aren’t paying for it. The city uses tourism taxes and state grants to keep that money pit running, but those funds don’t just appear out of thin air. It’s all taxpayer money in some form or another.

So, when the city talks about budget shortfalls, maybe it’s time to stop pretending that funding Spirit Mountain is just some magical bonus cash. If money is tight, maybe it’s time to take a hard look at whether keeping a ski hill afloat is really worth it when basic services are struggling.

City Hall Cage Matches and Real Issues

This month’s main event? The political hot potato of tourism marketing. After some bureaucratic jousting, oversight is officially back with Visit Duluth. Shoutout to Councilor Swenson for pushing safety improvements on West Skyline Parkway. Now, if only the city could fix its budget with the same enthusiasm.

March Highlights:

• Lead line replacements are moving along.

• The pothole patching contract is finally in place—get ready for some temporary road relief.

• Welcome to the new Duluth Economic Development Authority members, Dr. Chiamaka Enemuoh and Anna Bailey!

• Civil defense system upgrades approved—because tornadoes don’t wait for budget debates.

• Lincoln Park’s parking plan got tweaked for the West Superior Street project.

Why Are We Punishing Taxpayers for the City’s Mismanagement?

Here’s a thought: Instead of reaching deeper into taxpayers’ pockets, how about the city learns to live within its means? When households face tight budgets, they cut back. Maybe the city should take a cue and trim the fat. Look at the departments that are still bloated despite a shrinking city. Reevaluate projects that don’t serve the majority. Stop chasing big, shiny ventures when you can’t afford basic maintenance.

Why is it that every time there’s a financial problem, the first solution is to make residents cough up more cash? Duluth’s population has been on the decline for years. Shouldn’t the budget reflect that reality instead of pretending the city’s still in a growth boom? It’s time for a reality check: maybe cut spending instead of just cranking up taxes.

Election Season: Time to Demand Accountability

Councilor Tara Swenson has announced her re-election bid. No surprises there—she knows the game. But here’s the thing: career politicians are the last thing local politics needs. I’ve known Tara since we were board rookies, and yeah, she’s been dedicated. But dedication doesn’t mean hanging on for dear life when fresh ideas are desperately needed.

Local politics should be about new perspectives and practical solutions—not clinging to power out of habit. If we’re serious about fixing the budget, we need leaders who aren’t just looking to maintain the status quo. Nobody should serve longer than George Washington and accomplish less.

If you’re tired of being told to foot the bill for bad financial planning, make your voice heard. Let’s put the brakes on this never-ending tax hike cycle and demand smarter management.

Stay tuned. The local political circus is just warming up, and the next act might just be the taxpayers finally getting fed up.