Kenosha transit budget review finds $1.7 million larger general-fund gap; commissioners recommend budget to finance committee

Kenosha — At a Nov. 3 special meeting, the Kenosha Board of Transit Commissioners reviewed the proposed 2026 transit operating budget and five-year capital improvement plan and voted to recommend both to the city finance committee.

The board was presented with a 2026 operating budget that staff said balances without cutting transit service or eliminating any full- or part‑time positions, but that relies on increased transfers from the city’s general fund and working capital. Staff said the general-fund contribution to cover the operating shortfall rises from $1,363,382 in the prior year to $2,539,311 for 2026, plus roughly $500,000 drawn from working capital, figures presented by the city administrator during the meeting.

Why it matters: commissioners and staff said the gap stems largely from the end of…