Matanuska-Susitna Borough manager proposes budget that trims area-wide mill rate, funds infrastructure and school capital

Matanuska-Susitna Borough Manager Mike Brown presented his proposed fiscal 2026 budget to the borough assembly on April 9, saying the plan would slightly lower the area‑wide mill rate to 8.612 while increasing the capital program and funding strategic priorities.

Brown said the proposal’s central aim is ‘‘retooling’’ rather than a simple tune‑up. "This budget is a retooling budget," he told the assembly, adding it includes what he called ‘‘thoughtful structural changes to drive progress through service improvements, increased efficiency and infrastructure investments." He identified school and transportation bond obligations, Port McKenzie, transit matching funds, the Big Lake recreation acquisition and a larger capital program as drivers of an above‑average capital year.

The nut graf: the manager’s proposed budget would hold operations steady while expanding one‑time and strategic capital spending; officials point to $4.9 million in projected savings from recent bond refinancing as a major factor that makes the package possible.

Key numbers and program priorities - Proposed area‑wide mill rate: 8.612 (current…