Marquette County Board Budget Work Session 09-14-2026

The Marquette County Board held a budget work session on September 14, 2026, focusing extensively on the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget. Key procurement and budget discussions included maintaining current staff levels with some exceptions, funding allocations for various departments such as the Veterans Affairs Office, MSU Extension, and the Prosecutor's Office, and addressing significant liabilities related to the Michigan Employees' Retirement System (MERS) and Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB). The board discussed the use of reserve funds for capital improvement projects, technology upgrades, and operational needs, including a proposed 10% rate increase for sewer services and 3% for water services. The session also covered funding challenges for the health department, the impact of flat state revenue sharing, and the need for additional staffing in key areas like veterans benefits and prosecution. The board debated funding levels for MSU Extension and conservation districts, considering potential sources such as forestry fund reserves and general fund reserves. The meeting concluded with plans to revisit budget details in a subsequent session and emphasized the importance of balancing fiscal responsibility with service delivery to county residents.