Monday Budget Workshop - 11.09.2026

Cowlitz County Commissioners budget workshop, November 9, 2026: Staff reported revised General Fund expenditures of $74,792,861 and revenues of $74,823,536, leaving a roughly $30,000 surplus, but noted that the near-balance relies on about $1 million in one-time reductions for 2027. The board reviewed property-tax levy options, including a highest lawful General Fund levy of $22,772,659 and separate veterans assistance and mental health levies. A possible road-to-General-Fund levy-capacity shift was discussed, including estimated tax impacts, as one way to address the county’s financial needs and build reserves ahead of a potential exit from its insurance risk pool. No levy shift or other spending decision was formally approved.

Other discussions covered proposed coroner staffing levels, travel and training budgets (estimated at roughly $150,000–$160,000), and whether to move emergency management under the commissioners; those matters remained unresolved or were deferred for further information and stakeholder discussion. Staff said the budget had held off on $300,000 in professional services and a capital-improvement item for office space pending further consideration. The public hearing was scheduled for November 17, with the possibility of opening it and continuing it if information was not ready. No contract awards, vendor selections, or procurement approvals were identified.