Steuben County Manager Jack Wheeler unveiled the proposed 2026 county budget, presenting a $276.6 million plan designed to maintain services while keeping taxes stable. The proposal funds a wide range of county operations, including mandated programs, public safety, infrastructure, and community services, while balancing rising costs with conservative budgeting.
Property Taxes
The budget includes a 1.96% increase in the property tax levy, staying below the state tax cap. If approved, it would mark the 13th consecutive year that the average county tax rate has declined. Over the past five years, the property tax levy has grown an average of 1.56% annually, below the rate of inflation. County officials cite careful fund balance management, cautious revenue forecasting, and department-level cost controls for the stable financial outlook.
Cost Pressures
The proposed budget reflects rising expenses in several areas:
- Social Services: Higher caseloads for Safety Net assistance, child care aid, and Office for the Aging programs.
- Education: Increased costs for Preschool Special Education and community college support.
- Public Safety: Continued funding for the Sheriff’s Office, Jail, 911 Communications, Probation, and Emergency Management.
- Infrastructure: Transportation remains the largest discretionary expense, supporting ongoing road and bridge projects with local dollars, state aid, and reserves.
- Workforce Costs: Spending on wages, retirement contributions, and health insurance is rising as the county works to recruit and retain employees.
County Manager’s Remarks
Wheeler emphasized that the proposal maintains essential services while addressing rising mandated costs and uncertainty at higher levels of government. Key priorities include public safety, infrastructure, and stable taxes.
Next Steps
A public hearing on the 2026 budget is scheduled for Monday, November 24, at 11:30 a.m., with a vote by the County Legislature to follow. The full budget message is available on the county’s website.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
