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Grand Traverse County adopts $55.9 million 2026 budget after public hearing
Summary
Following a public hearing, the Grand Traverse County Board approved a balanced 2026 general appropriations resolution totaling $55,907,103, including allocations for a detective position, an operations audit and several special initiatives. Commissioners asked for department-level clarifications on technology and patrol costs.
The Grand Traverse County Board opened a public hearing on the proposed 2026 budget and approved a balanced general appropriations resolution of $55,907,103 after discussion on department increases and technology investments.
Finance staff presented updates to the plan submitted in September, including moving $1.25 million within MERS, adding a detective position to the sheriff’s budget, earmarking $400,000 for an operations audit in 2026 and funding project management for jail and civic center planning. Director Bhatt noted that the public notice for the hearing was published as required and reiterated the 2025 general operating millage rate at 4.6065 mills.
Commissioners asked for more detail about cost drivers: a $300,000-plus increase tied to a planned migration of tax collection software (a cloud move for BS&A), Register of Deeds automation/scanning costs shifted back to the general fund, vehicle and personnel costs in County Patrol and increased medical-contract costs affecting corrections. Finance staff said some increases reflect one-time migration costs and some are recurring personnel and benefits adjustments.
Board action: Commissioner Nelson moved to approve the 2026 general-appropriations resolution; the motion was seconded and passed on a roll-call vote with the commissioners present voting yes.
Next steps: Administration and department heads agreed to provide follow-up detail (depreciation breakdowns, reconciliation of cost centers and schedule for IT migration) in the new year.
Procedural note: The public hearing record was opened and closed with no members of the public speaking during the hearing portion on the 2026 budget.
