Jefferson County commissioners on Thursday adopted the county's 2026 budget and tax levy, approving a $35,504,000 expense plan while keeping the millage rate unchanged. The board voted to adopt the budget after a presentation by county finance staff that highlighted revenue and expense assumptions.

The finance presenter told commissioners the budget includes total revenue of $35,364,000 and total expenses of $35,504,000, producing a planned deficit of $140,275 (including a $155,000 general fund shortfall). The presenter said grants account for 47% of revenue, tax revenue 34%, and real estate tax 33% of the county's receipts. Debt service is budgeted at $1,200,000 and outstanding bond principal was reported at about $32,470,000.

Commissioners emphasized that the budget does not increase the millage rate. "This budget does not include any increase to millage," the presenter said. Commissioners thanked finance and department staff for efforts to control costs; several noted the budget deficit is smaller than projected earlier this year and called it a sign of improved stewardship.

The board voted after brief discussion and remarks of appreciation for staff work on monthly budget performance and labor negotiations that influenced costs. The adoption followed motions earlier in the meeting to approve routine invoices and payroll and to ratify a recently negotiated collective bargaining agreement that the board said factored into 2026 expense planning.

The board directed that routine modifications and public-interest changes would be noted if they were substantively different; none were identified in the adopted motion. The commission scheduled its next regular meeting for Jan. 13.