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County staff warn of shortfalls in draft 2026 budget; propose cuts and borrowing options
Summary
The administrative coordinator reported a draft 2026 budget with an estimated $171,000 net revenue increase but remaining shortfalls driven by human services placements, rising utilities and software costs; staff proposed cuts to outside contributions and identified $4.7 million in proposed capital projects.
Cassie, the county administrative coordinator, briefed the board on the draft 2026 budget and described a multi‑step review process that included second‑round meetings with department heads to identify savings. She said the county expects an increased revenue of about $171,000 from levy limit growth and TID closure, but that the total did not cover projected salary increases and rising costs for human services (including an out‑of‑state placement at $1,600 per day), utilities and expanded software subscriptions.
The Finance Committee recommended reductions to outside contributions (historical society and agricultural society contributions cut proportionally) and removal of a $15,000 Smart Bus contribution after notice from La Crosse County that it would not continue its subsidy. Cassie described a proposed 1% cost‑of‑living increase for staff and several position eliminations that together save roughly $140,000. She said the proposed budget includes $4.7 million in capital projects and that staff will continue to explore borrowing options over the coming months.
