Stearns County adopts 2026 budget and 5.2% tax levy; tax rate expected to fall slightly
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Summary
The board approved the 2026 budget with a 5.2% tax levy increase and a large contingency intended to protect fund balance; staff said the tax rate will fall slightly and that Stearns County’s levy increase is modest compared with many other counties.
The Stearns County Board voted to adopt the 2026 budget and set a 5.2% tax levy.
Mike Williams presented the budget, describing a plan that includes a large contingency to address uncertainties in 2026 and to help protect fund balance into 2027. Williams told the board the tax levy would increase 5.2% while the county’s tax rate would decrease slightly; he said Stearns County’s levy increase is one of the lower increases among Minnesota counties this year.
Commissioners discussed the pressure of state cost shifts and unfunded mandates and the desire to present concise one‑pagers to legislators when advocating for state assistance; Commissioner Clark and others urged staff to include contextual charts showing how state aid has shifted over time. The board adopted the resolution by voice vote.
Next steps: staff will finalize documents for posting and continue legislative outreach tied to the county’s stated priorities.