Budget hearings in the Nov. 25 meeting focused on Clay County’s non‑county levy requests for 2026 and prompted extended discussion about library funding, local EDA allocations and possible downstream impacts.

Commissioner Ebinger raised concerns that reducing the library’s request by about $15,000 would force service reductions in smaller branches and asked whether the board should restore the requested amount. He described the library’s financial condition and urged the board to revise the formula that guides how member signatories share the cost.

County staff reported the Lake Agassiz Regional Library anticipates using approximately $1,136,566 of fund balance this year and that its proposed overall budget is about $4.4 million (roughly five months of operating reserves reported). Commissioners debated whether reserves, capital needs for a new site, and a 30‑year‑old funding formula should influence the county’s decision for 2026.

After discussion, Commissioner Kravanoff moved to restore the Lake Agassiz Regional Library funding to its original request of $362,690; the motion passed on a roll call vote with most commissioners in favor. Immediately afterward, a motion to pull EDA funding for four rural Clay County cities for the 2026 levy year was made and carried on a roll call vote; some commissioners said the allocation could be revisited next year but preferred withholding for this budget cycle.

Board members noted the choices shift internal budget priorities and may be revisited in future levy discussions. Staff said the levy document will be updated with the board’s adjustments and presented again before final adoption.