Houston County sets preliminary 2026 levy at 6% after debate over Spring Grove policing contract

The Houston County Board of Commissioners voted to set a preliminary 2026 tax levy at 6% following an extended discussion of public-safety funding tied to a potential contract with the City of Spring Grove.

Mayor Williamson of Spring Grove told the board the city has faced revenue losses after a major employer closed and has raised its levy 7% this year to cope with sewer, water and public-safety needs. "We lost Northern Engraving, which was a big part of funding our sewer and water projects," Williamson said during the two-minute forum, and urged commissioners to consider options that preserve a police presence in town.

Commissioners and sheriff's office representatives described a reduced contract offered by the sheriff that would provide fewer hours of coverage than the previous two-deputy arrangement. Commissioner comments focused on the trade-offs between local control and countywide costs: several commissioners said Spring Grove's proposed reduction in local law-enforcement funding would shift call volume to the county and leave unresolved budget choices for the sheriff's office.

Finance staff recommended several levy scenarios after recalculating salaries, benefits and fund-balance usage. The board considered the previously adopted 7.905% figure and alternatives including 7%, 6.5% and 6%. After debate about absorbing costs if Spring Grove declines a contract, a motion to set the preliminary levy at 6% was made, seconded and passed by roll call with each district voting yes.

The board also voted to table adoption of the operating budget to the next meeting so staff could revise numbers to reflect the levy decision and any subsequent developments in Spring Grove. Commissioners said the final budget and any budget amendments tied to law-enforcement staffing will be decided once the city's attorney and Spring Grove complete their review and any contract is returned to the county. "Get back to us when your attorney gives you the information you want, and then we'll get together," a county staff member said during the exchange.

Next steps: the county will finalize the operating budget at a subsequent meeting after staff rework figures and incorporate any changes resulting from Spring Grove's contract decision.