Commission adopts 2025–26 budget and keeps tax rate unchanged

Commissioners on July 20 approved the county's annual budget and maintained the current tax rate after a roll-call vote.

Heather, the staff budget presenter, told the commission the budget "represents lots of work" and maintains fund balances in accordance with county policy. "We're keeping the tax rate the same as prior year," she said while asking for the commission's consideration of the balanced plan.

Commissioner Blaser read the proposed breakdown of funds and rates for each fund (general fund, solid waste and sanitation, industrial and economic development, highway and public works, general purpose school fund, school transportation and debt and capital projects). The motion to adopt the budget and the accompanying fund rates was moved, seconded and approved by roll call.

The roll-call record in the meeting shows the following responses: Andy Ford (yes); Bill Miller (yes); Gala Blazer (yes); Jason McMahon (yes); Norma Smith (yes); Tracy Stapp (yes); Jonathan Templin (yes); Karen Chambers (yes); Dan Brock (no); Wilma Ball (no); Rick Vassar (yes); David Veridahl (yes); Tim Layman (yes); Billy Hudson (yes). The chair declared the motion passed.

Staff said the budget aims to be "financially responsible and legally balanced," preserves fund balances and will be amended as needed through the year. The commission did not change the tax rate.

The budget's adoption is effective immediately; staff will publish the adopted budget documents and proceed with implementation and any required grant or capital project steps.