The Crawford County Board of Commissioners voted Dec. 24 to adopt the county 2026 budget, approving a plan that sets total operating revenue and expense for the general fund at $36,788,808 and total countywide revenue and expense at $66,124,593.

County finance staff presented the final figures and emphasized that the budget continues a multi-year trend without a tax increase. "We have a total operating revenue of $36,788,808," the county finance presenter stated during the meeting. The board moved to adopt the budget; the motion was seconded and approved by roll call.

Why it matters: Commissioners and staff said the budget aims to maintain current services without raising property taxes, a priority cited repeatedly by members who pointed to constituents on fixed incomes. One commissioner noted the pressure on county finances ahead, saying the county faces "things that are going to come to fruition, and they're very expensive," and urged vigilance in the upcoming budget cycle.

What the budget includes: The finance presentation listed identical total revenue and expense figures for both the general fund and the county overall, a budgeting approach the presenter said reflects balanced assumptions for 2026. Commissioners praised the finance team for producing the document and stressed that 2027 budget work will begin immediately.

Next steps: With formal adoption, staff will proceed with implementing the 2026 spending plan and begin work on the 2027 budget this winter. The board also scheduled reconvening and additional administrative meetings for the end of December to cover any remaining year-end bills.