Carver County Commissioners recently reviewed the preliminary 2027 budget and levy, with a proposed 8.5% increase sparking extensive discussion among officials. The recommended levy, significantly reduced from an initial 14.5% proposal, represents a substantial adjustment that prompted concerns about its impact on residents and the county's long-term financial health. The work session served as a platform for information and discussion, with formal adoption of the preliminary levy and budget expected at an upcoming Board meeting.

Commissioner Udman voiced strong reservations regarding the proposed increase, emphasizing his consistent opposition to rising tax rates. "Too much for me is anything that leads to a tax rate increase," said Commissioner Udman. He highlighted that an 8.5% increase, given the county's 114,000 residents, could effectively double property taxes on the county line every eight and a half years, a trajectory he found concerning. He pointed out recent historical increases, including a 6.8% increase three years prior and 8% last year, setting a precedent for continuous growth.

County Administrator Mr. Hemsy acknowledged the persistent financial pressures facing the county. "It always seems like, especially at the county level, we're we're facing these cost shifts, burden shifts, trying to figure out, you know, how how can we take care of it because nobody else can," Mr. Hemsy stated, underscoring the county's responsibility to address needs that other entities cannot. He noted that the county often finds itself in a position of providing services due to external funding cuts or unfunded mandates.

A significant portion of the budget discussion centered on mental health services. Kayla Pasco, Chair of the Mental Health Local Advisory Committee (MHLAC), presented findings from their annual report, which identified critical unmet needs within Carver County. Pasco highlighted transportation as the most frequently cited barrier to accessing mental health care, an issue that requires ongoing attention and resources.

MHLAC's role involves identifying "actual gaps" in the mental health system that cannot be met by existing organizations, ensuring that county funds target the most pressing needs. Officials discussed specific areas with higher mental health call rates, including Victoria, Watertown, and Waconia, noting that Watertown's figures were significantly influenced by a particular group home. Efforts are underway to improve the existing First Street Center facility and explore a new dedicated treatment space in Chanhassen, which serves the largest mental health client population.

In an attempt to manage expenditures, Administrator Hemsy recommended a cut to the aquatic invasive species (AIS) inspection program, noting that the state legislature had reduced its funding by half and the inspection component is not a state mandate. He clarified that monitoring and ongoing education efforts for AIS would continue. Other discussions included the allocation of funds for library services, where Commissioner Udman noted a 43% decline in library usage over the past decade, prompting a review of how library resources are best deployed despite their community value.

Commissioners will consider these preliminary budget recommendations for formal adoption at an upcoming Board meeting, with ongoing efforts to balance fiscal responsibility with the provision of essential services to Carver County residents.