County approves 2026 budget

Aug 28

The Kent County Board of Commissioners approved a balanced budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. The approved budget totals $668 million across all funds.

“This budget reflects our ongoing commitment to fiscal responsibility,” said Ben Greene, Board Chair . “We continue to invest in services that improve the quality of life for residents while protecting taxpayer resources. By carefully managing our priorities, we are able to meet today’s needs and prepare for tomorrow’s challenges without compromising Kent County’s long-term financial health.”

The FY 2026 budget dedicates $13.4 million to infrastructure and capital needs, including, but not limited, to facility enhancements across county operations, playground equipment replacement at Caledonia Lakeside and Millennium Parks, recreational trail maintenance, continued implementation of electronic filing software to improve court operations, outdoor warning siren upgrades, and security improvements at the correctional facility.

Separate from the general budget process, the Board approved the allocation of $8.9 million in Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage funds to support outreach and navigation, early learning programs, healthy development initiatives, and parent education and support programs, and

$18 million in Senior Millage funds to provide essential services for older adults.

The FY 2026 budget reflects months of collaboration and public input. The Board set budget parameters in February, followed by extensive discussions with department directors and countywide elected officials. Commissioners reviewed the proposal during four budget work sessions and a public hearing.

“I want to thank our staff, department directors, elected officials, and Commissioners for their diligent work in developing this budget,” said Al Vanderberg, County Administrator. “Through careful planning, collaboration, and discipline, we were able to remain within the fiscal parameters established by the Board while investing in critical services and infrastructure. Kent County continues to demonstrate that responsible budgeting leads to strong outcomes for our residents.”

For more information, visit https://www.kentcountymi.gov/238/Financial-Transparency.

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