2026 County Budget and Property Taxes
Summary
The county capped its 2026 budget growth at 3.5% and set up a cap bank so it can bank unused capacity below the 2% state cap for emergencies like pension or health cost spikes. One resident argued even 3.5% a year doubles taxes in 20 years and urged cuts instead.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 5
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed May 13, 2026.
Impact analysis
Caps county budget growth at 3.5% for 2026 — a guardrail meant to limit future property tax pressure, though exceptions apply.
All county taxpayers get a limit on budget-driven tax growth, while the cap bank preserves flexibility for genuine emergencies.
Residents who wanted deeper budget cuts, like Andover Township's Ken Collins, say the maximum allowable cap keeps tax burdens climbing.
Mentions & discussions (5)
Board of County Commissioners (Regular) - May 13, 2026
The county adopted a $132.2 million budget raising about $108.7 million from property taxes. Residents like Ken Collins warned that repeated 3.5% increases double tax bills every 20 years, while Commissioner Carney noted the county's levy growth has averaged about 1.1% annually.
Board of County Commissioners (Regular) - Apr 8, 2026
The board certified the 2026 library budget and its tax levy, keeping county library services funded for the year.
Board of County Commissioners (Regular) - Mar 25, 2026
Residents and commissioners discussed rising operational costs, taxes, and county legal expenses during public comment. Officials noted that unfunded mandates and wage adjustments contribute to overall budget challenges.
Board of County Commissioners (Regular) - Feb 25, 2026
The county capped its 2026 budget growth at 3.5% and set up a cap bank so it can bank unused capacity below the 2% state cap for emergencies like pension or health cost spikes. One resident argued even 3.5% a year doubles taxes in 20 years and urged cuts instead.
Board of County Commissioners (Regular) - Jan 28, 2026
The board advanced a limit on next year's spending growth to 3.5%, with some exceptions. It's just a first reading — a final vote comes later. It shapes what services and staff the county can fund in 2026.
We'll email you when it's on an upcoming agenda and when it's voted on, at most once a day.
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