Columbia County adopts $105.9 million budget for 2026–27, adds 22 positions and 3% COLA

The Columbia County Board of Commissioners on June 2, 2026 adopted an annual budget for all county funds for fiscal year 2026–2027 totaling $105,925,401.

County staff summarized the package at the meeting, saying the county used a zero-based budgeting approach, kept the county’s property tax rate unchanged and limited the general fund increase to 1.95%. The proposal adds about 22 new general-fund positions to respond to population growth and service demands and includes a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for eligible employees. "105,925,401 dollars I think is a a good testament to the hard work of the team here," said Mr. Johnson, a county staff member who presented the overview.

The presentation also noted an approximate 10% increase in employee medical contributions for both employees and the employer, a contingency reserve of roughly 2.51%, and a operational change that moves roads and bridges funding fully into the insurance premium tax fund where those restricted revenues are allowable. Officials said that shift and other adjustments helped balance the budget without raising property taxes.

Why it matters: The budget funds county services, personnel and capital needs amid sustained growth. The new positions include public safety deputies, additional emergency management staffing after Hurricane Helene and parks and recreation roles connected to new facilities; the package also modestly raises county attorney hourly rates.

What happened next: After the presentation a commissioner moved to adopt Resolution No. 26-12, the motion was seconded and the board approved the budget. Implementation will proceed through normal department and finance processes.

The board approved the budget during the June 2 meeting and then continued to other agenda items.