Wright County Adopts Preliminary 2026 Budget With 5.57% Levy Increase
The Wright County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a preliminary 2026 budget Tuesday with a 5.57% levy increase, totaling $224.9 million, despite the increase actually reducing the overall tax rate for residents.
Administrator Kryer presented the budget, explaining that while the levy increases by 5.57%, the county's tax rate will drop from 35.563% to 35.184% due to growth in the tax base. The median countywide home, valued at $362,000, would see an estimated tax impact of $38.71 under the preliminary budget.
The budget addresses several challenges including state and federal cost shifts, eight union contract negotiations, and a 14% healthcare insurance increase. Key investments include two additional deputy positions and one corrections officer position in response to projected increases in 911 calls, which are expected to exceed 84,000 in 2025.
The board also approved drainage repair contracts for County Ditch 19, awarding bids totaling approximately $51,640 to three contractors: Clear View Tree Services LLC for tree removal ($22,715), Wridge Drainage Inc. for reach one repairs ($20,950), and Cotala Brothers Excavating LLC for reach two repairs ($7,975). Commissioners rejected bids for reach four repairs pending additional DNR permitting work.
A public hearing for final budget approval was scheduled for December 11 at 6 p.m. The board also proclaimed October 6-12 as National 4-H Week in Wright County and approved routine BCA criminal justice information agreements.
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The Wright County Board Meeting on September 23, 2025, began with employee service recognition ceremonies honoring staff with 5-30 years of service. The board then addressed routine business including meeting minutes approval and consent agenda items. Key agenda items included adopting a resolution proclaiming National 4-H Week, approving BCA criminal justice information agreements, and considering drainage repair bids for County Ditch 19. The meeting concluded with the adoption of a preliminary 2026 budget with a 5.57% levy increase, totaling $224.9 million, which actually reduces the overall tax rate despite the increase.
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