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Administrator previews November draft budget; new construction expected to add ~$171,000 to levy
Summary
Administrative Coordinator Hannan reported that finance approved a draft budget for November presentation, that net new construction is projected to add about $171,000 to the levy, and that the proposed budget includes a 1% COLA plus a 2% step increase and a 0.5% range adjustment for eligible employees.
Administrative Coordinator Hannan updated the board on the 2026 budget process and other administrative matters. Hannan said department-level budget meetings have been held, Finance has approved a draft budget for presentation in November, and net new construction is estimated to contribute about $171,000 to the levy. A tax-increment financing district in Viroqua closed last year, which also affects the levy picture.
Hannan said the proposed personnel changes include a 1% cost-of-living adjustment, a 2% step increase for eligible employees and an additional 0.5% range increase for those in-range; some positions were eliminated in the draft budget. The minutes also note a projected 2.5% change in WRS rates and a 2.5% reduction in health insurance premiums; finance reduced some contributions to the Historical Society and County Fair Board and removed a $15,000 contribution tied to La Crosse County's planned discontinuation of a regional SMRT bus service.
The board was told NextGen 911 is scheduled to go live Nov. 4 and that ADRC is strained as residents lose Medicare Advantage plans; staff will continue budget discussions and present the draft in November.
