Riley County commissioners and department heads discussed long-term budget challenges, property taxes and the future of county services during a county officials luncheon, with several officials warning that maintaining current service levels while keeping taxes flat may become increasingly difficult.
The discussion followed the commission’s recent budget hearing, during which commissioners approved transferring $5.15 million from the county’s capital improvement program fund to the county’s general fund in an effort to maintain a relatively flat mill levy for 2026.
“We will continue budget work sessions to work through the process,” said Brittany Phillips, budget and finance officer. “Ultimately all of you department heads requested to talk about budgets at this county officials luncheon. So I think if you have thoughts or concerns or questions, I think this is a perfect opportunity for you to speak up.”
