Wayne County sets proposed FY27 budget, schedules additional tax hearing required by HF718

The Wayne County Board of Supervisors voted Feb. 17 to set the county's proposed FY27 budget, announce levy rates and schedule an additional proposed tax hearing under HF718.

Supervisor Lance Lange moved to set the proposed FY27 budget; the motion was seconded by Supervisor Todd Wilson and approved by the supervisors present. Chair Chris Moore outlined the three levy rates the board is responsible for setting that will appear on this year’s tax statements: General Basic at 4.06923 (projected to generate $2,069,425, an increase of $156,758), General Supplemental at 2.39337 (projected $1,199,856, a decrease of $177,836), and Rural Basic at 3.79698 (projected $1,525,154, an increase of $115,314).

Moore introduced Resolution No. 26-22 to satisfy HF718 requirements for an additional proposed tax hearing and required taxpayer mailing; the board approved the resolution on a motion by Todd Wilson, seconded by Lance Lange. The additional public hearing was set for Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 9:45 a.m. in the Wayne County Courthouse lower-level conference room. The resolution also notes the county auditor must mail notices to taxpayers by March 20 to alert them of budget hearings for county, city and school levies within the county.

During the same meeting the board approved 15 rural revitalization abatement applications presented by Assessor Brandon Carpenter. Carpenter told the board there are 25 new homes or additions countywide that qualify for the program and encouraged 10 other property owners to apply.

Supervisor Lance Lange excused himself later in the meeting. The board approved the actions noted above and will hold the additional hearing March 31 as set by the resolution.