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News Release

Clark County Council Adopts 2026 Budget - 12/03/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council this week voted to approve the county’s annual budget for 2026. Overall, the adopted budget reflects a strong and financially sound position for the organization. For 2026, the total adopted expense budget is $883 million. This strategic financial plan is supported by $735 million in revenues and $149 million of fund balance.

 

The council voted to approve a 1% property tax levy increase, as well as any available banked capacity, for the General Fund, Road Fund, Conservation Futures Fund and Metropolitan Parks District Fund.

 

The county manages hundreds of individual funding sources, and when viewed collectively, its financial outlook remains stable so long as there is continued prioritizing of long-term sustainability, adherence to county financial policies, and alignment with strategic planning goals. Strategic planning is a major priority for both the county manager and the council, and a firm commitment has been made to advance a comprehensive strategic financial plan in early 2026.

 

While the county’s overall financial condition is solid, some funding sources—most notably the General Fund—are experiencing structural deficits. These areas require significant attention, and county staff continue to devote considerable time and resources to understanding the underlying issues and developing responsible long-term solutions. Even with these challenges, the adopted budget positions the county to maintain stability while proactively preparing for future needs.

 

“I want to acknowledge the tremendous dedication and hard work of every department and office across the county,” said County Manager Kathleen Otto. “Despite the continued growth in community needs and the increasing complexity of service delivery, our staff have demonstrated remarkable commitment and creativity in managing resources effectively. Their efforts have been instrumental in maintaining essential services, supporting residents, and advancing our shared goals for a thriving Clark County.”

 

“I want to recognize all the hard work from the Budget Office, county manager, department heads, and county elected officials,” said Council Chair Sue Marshall. “This has been a long hard process. I’d like to thank all of the councilors too, for their diligence in working on this budget.”

 

The hearing presentation and video are on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/councilors/clark-county-council-meetings under the date Dec. 2, 2025.

Clark County Council Adopts 2026 Budget - 12/03/25

Vancouver, Wash. – The Clark County Council this week voted to approve the county’s annual budget for 2026. Overall, the adopted budget reflects a strong and financially sound position for the organization. For 2026, the total adopted expense budget is $883 million. This strategic financial plan is supported by $735 million in revenues and $149 million of fund balance.

 

The council voted to approve a 1% property tax levy increase, as well as any available banked capacity, for the General Fund, Road Fund, Conservation Futures Fund and Metropolitan Parks District Fund.

 

The county manages hundreds of individual funding sources, and when viewed collectively, its financial outlook remains stable so long as there is continued prioritizing of long-term sustainability, adherence to county financial policies, and alignment with strategic planning goals. Strategic planning is a major priority for both the county manager and the council, and a firm commitment has been made to advance a comprehensive strategic financial plan in early 2026.

 

While the county’s overall financial condition is solid, some funding sources—most notably the General Fund—are experiencing structural deficits. These areas require significant attention, and county staff continue to devote considerable time and resources to understanding the underlying issues and developing responsible long-term solutions. Even with these challenges, the adopted budget positions the county to maintain stability while proactively preparing for future needs.

 

“I want to acknowledge the tremendous dedication and hard work of every department and office across the county,” said County Manager Kathleen Otto. “Despite the continued growth in community needs and the increasing complexity of service delivery, our staff have demonstrated remarkable commitment and creativity in managing resources effectively. Their efforts have been instrumental in maintaining essential services, supporting residents, and advancing our shared goals for a thriving Clark County.”

 

“I want to recognize all the hard work from the Budget Office, county manager, department heads, and county elected officials,” said Council Chair Sue Marshall. “This has been a long hard process. I’d like to thank all of the councilors too, for their diligence in working on this budget.”

 

The hearing presentation and video are on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/councilors/clark-county-council-meetings under the date Dec. 2, 2025.