KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – The Kalamazoo County commission has almost finished up their work on the 2026 budget. Almost. But not quite.
They held a public hearing last night, after getting an earful from three separate judges, who once again appealed for the funding they need to cover increased costs from last year.
Judges Gary Giguerre, Christine Morse, and Rebecca D’Angelo say they need $311,000 more.
Administrator Kevin Catlin has only been able to find $126,000 so far, but commissioners are still looking.
Catlin’s proposal to distribute $400,000 to community agencies on behalf of the board was applauded, but commissioners immediately offered alternative suggestions.
That also won’t be finalized for another two weeks after the administrator has had a chance to look through the board’s preferences.
Board chair Jen Strebs says this is how democracies can and should work.
One way they will pay a little more is to tax a little more.
The commission approved the resolution to levy taxes at 7.8617 mills last night, increasing the tax rate by just over 5%.
All the other approvals associated with the budget will come in two weeks.
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