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Cowlitz County grapples with budget shortfall; commissioners weigh 1‑year budget and steep court cuts
Summary
Facing a projected deficit for 2027, Cowlitz County commissioners debated across‑the‑board reductions to the 2026 general fund— including a proposed 20% reduction to Superior Court—while considering a shift to a one‑year budget and other temporary steps to protect reserves.
Commissioners in Cowlitz County convened a budget workshop to address a growing shortfall that could shrink county reserves from roughly three months to about one month if proposed cuts are adopted.
Kathy Funk Baxter, the county finance director, presented a recap of suggested reductions for the 2026 budget, including a scenario that would reduce Superior Court funding by about 20% from the 2026 OFM number she cited ($2,647,707). She told the board the reductions assume additional cuts on top of steps departments have already taken and illustrated dollar impacts and possible reserve outcomes.
The finance presentation prompted vigorous debate over what level of reserves the board should preserve and which programs are essential. Chair (Speaker 1) said one‑time reductions…
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