West Bend council adopts balanced $28.3 million 2026 budget with modest tax-rate rise

The West Bend Common Council on Nov. 10 adopted the city’s 2026 operating budget, approving a $28,300,000 total tax levy and a city share of the property tax that yields an estimated $6.46 per $1,000 of assessed value. City Administrator Jesse summarized the plan and told the council staff had no "substantial changes from the initial presentation back in October."

Jesse said the levy is roughly allocated to 70% general fund, 13% debt service, 5% library and the remainder captured in tax incremental districts. He said the city’s portion of the property tax bill for an average single-family home is about $1,940 and that only about 41% of an overall property-tax bill funds city services; the rest goes to other taxing authorities. "Overall, staff is really proud to present to the council a balanced 2026 budget that maintains or improves municipal services," Jesse said.

Key capital priorities highlighted in the packet include just under $3 million for road improvements and funds for construction of the new Fire Station No. 1. The operating budget also creates several full-time positions, including additions in Parks and Recreation and Public Works and a full-time airport superintendent. The council moved the budget to the floor and approved it by voice vote.

The council held a public hearing on the proposed budget with no public speakers recorded before taking the vote. The resolution now authorizes city staff to implement appropriations for the 2026 fiscal year; the city will report final levy and mill-rate figures in its adopted budget documents and tax-roll filings.