July 29, 2026 - Thurston County Board of County Commissioners Work Session

The Thurston County Board of County Commissioners held a work session on July 29, 2026, primarily focused on budget matters. The board reviewed the 2026-2027 biennial budget special amendment number two, which corrects reporting errors in budget attachments without changing actual appropriations. The board voted to proceed with public noticing of this amendment, with adoption planned for August 18. The session also included a detailed discussion on the county's ongoing general fund deficit, multi-year budget reduction strategies, and potential levy lid lift options to increase revenue. Commissioners considered different approaches to budget cuts across departments and offices, emphasizing collaboration and minimizing service impacts. Additionally, the board discussed the allocation of leftover funds from homelessness response efforts, including a contract for a housing navigator to assist with transitioning individuals to stable housing.