Sauk County board begins 2027 budget planning with introductory briefing

Vice Chair Dietrich called the Sauk County Committee of the Whole to order at 6:00 p.m. on July 16, 2026. County Administrator Lisa Wilson opened the meeting and certified compliance with the open meeting law before introducing a countywide primer on the 2027 budget process presented with Finance Director Stephanie Beardsley.

Wilson and Beardsley covered statutory authority for county budgets, levy history, and the elements that determine available levy capacity, saying the presentation would guide departments as they prepare requests. The presenters listed topics including "Assessed Value, Equalized Value; and how we get to Net New Construction," levy history, fund types, and budget policy statements that will shape 2027 submissions. Supervisors asked clarifying questions during the session and staff provided additional explanation.

The presentation also identified two "Hot Topics (Sheriff/Jail versus Nursing Home)" that county leaders expect will be major drivers of levy pressure in 2027. Presenters noted personnel costs and OMB revisions as specific areas likely to affect departmental requests. The meeting adopted the agenda by motion before the presentation and adjourned at 7:20 p.m.

The briefing served as an organizational starting point; presenters and supervisors outlined next steps for departmental submissions and further committee review as the board moves into formal budget deliberations this fall.