Tenino council holds first readings on 2026 budget and ad valorem tax; levy worksheet to be updated

The Tenino City Council held the first readings Nov. 11 for its 2026 annual budget and for the ad valorem property tax resolution, as required by state law. Both items were presented for public input and approved on first reading for later final adoption.

Clerk/finance staff told the council Thurston County had reviewed the levy‑limit worksheet and that a recently passed fire‑district levy will change some computation inputs. The clerk said corrected numbers will be available before the next meeting and promised to circulate updated figures well in advance. Staff reminded the council the county worksheet mechanics are complex and that final new‑construction numbers and county inputs can change the highest lawful levy and the calculated rate.

On revenue projections, staff emphasized that 2025 columns in the budget reflect adopted budgeted amounts, not final actuals. October property‑tax receipts slightly exceeded projections. The proposed 2026 budget includes a 1.5% cost‑of‑living adjustment (estimated at about $18,000) and a part‑time administrative clerk position; public works requested one additional full‑time position with a small portion (roughly 10–15%) of that salary charged to the general fund. The budget presentation also anticipates a possible state HB‑2015 law‑enforcement grant, which—if awarded—would be restricted for police use.

Council approved the first readings by voice votes after no public testimony on either the property‑tax or budget hearings. Staff will provide updated levy worksheet numbers and finalize the full budget for a second reading and final adoption at a future meeting.