Jackson County adopts $32.8 million fiscal year 2026 budget; 5% cost-of-living increase approved

The Jackson County Commission on Oct. 22 adopted the fiscal year 2026 budget that county staff presented as balanced with a modest margin.

County administrators told the commission the total revenue projection for 2026 is $32,789,049 and the proposed expenditures total $32,222,174, yielding a projected margin of $566,875. The general fund revenue projection was listed at roughly $12.46 million with expenditures of about $12.10 million.

Commission staff outlined several budget changes and additions. The commission approved a 5% cost-of-living allowance for county employees, elected officials and administration staff. The budget also includes reclassifications and promotions for certain county employees and new or additional positions: a full-time maintenance apprentice and a custodian to support operations in the new courthouse annex, an additional corrections deputy assigned to jail duties, and an additional driver for the solid waste department. The budget adds $18,000 to the Emergency Management office to support development of a new emergency management plan, and an additional appropriation of $58,000 for the sheriff’s office for vehicle maintenance and uniforms and to support school resource officers.

Staff said the budget assumes a conservative approach to revenue projections and noted a proposed intra-fund transfer of $1,185,520 to support public-works road projects. Health insurance premium contributions were described as increasing 4.75 percent year over year.

Commissioners moved, seconded and approved the budget at the meeting by voice vote.