Sherman County commissioners approve 2026 budget, vote to exceed revenue-neutral rate after public comment on rising valuations

The Sherman County Board of Commissioners approved the county's 2026 budget and passed Resolution 25-9 to exceed the revenue-neutral rate after hearing public comment about sharply higher property valuations and taxes.

During the public comment period, resident Nick Mohar said his proposed tax increase would be "like a 38% increase" and that his property valuation had risen by about $50,000, a jump he said would produce an added burden. Another speaker, identified in the record as Cliff Henry, said his taxes rose from about $2,200 to $5,600 over three years and described the increase as "a little bit steep."

Commissioners responded that the county does not set property valuations and that valuation adjustments are handled by the state; residents were directed to the county appraiser's office for review. The board also noted that recent statewide valuation changes have led to large percentage increases in some nearby counties.

Formal actions taken at the budget hearing included a 3-0 vote to adopt Resolution 25-9 to exceed the revenue-neutral rate and a 3-0 vote to adopt the 2026 budget as presented. The record shows Commissioners Harvey, Kevin and Steve voting in favor on the resolution; the subsequent budget adoption was carried by voice vote with the meeting record indicating unanimous approval.

Earlier in the meeting the board approved minutes from the prior meeting and a payment register containing two entries, one for $174.49 and another for $169,337.78; both motions were approved as moved and seconded.

The board closed the budget hearing after adopting the budget and thanking members of the public for their comments. No additional formal deadlines or follow-up reports were specified in the meeting record.