County 2026 Budget Meetings Complete, Proposal Due October 15
Larimer County's budget preparation team has completed meetings with all county departments and offices for the 2026 proposed budget, with the formal proposal due to commissioners by October 15 as required by state law.
County Manager Lorinda Volker announced September 30 that the budget team successfully met with every department to prepare next year's spending plan, expressing confidence in the process and final product.
"I am happy to say that we have now, as a budget team, met with every department and office to prepare the 2026 proposed budget," Volker told commissioners during their administrative meeting. "You will get that by October 15, as is required. But we're feeling pretty well prepared to get that done."
Volker praised county leadership and employees for their collaborative approach during budget preparation. "I cannot thank the leaders of the county enough. I cannot thank the employees enough for the work they did, generating ideas and kind of challenging the status quo," she said.
Budget Timeline Follows State Requirements
Colorado statutes require county managers to submit budget proposals to commissioners by mid-October, initiating a formal process that culminates in final budget adoption by December 15. The timeline ensures adequate time for public review and input before the new fiscal year begins January 1.
Following the October 15 proposal submission, Larimer County commissioners will hold public hearings in late October or early November to gather resident feedback on spending priorities and service levels. These hearings provide transparency and allow community members to comment on how their tax dollars will be allocated across county services.
The budget preparation process involves county departments presenting their funding requests based on priorities set by commissioners and general budgeting principles. Department heads must justify spending needs while aligning with overall county objectives for service delivery and fiscal responsibility.
Revenue Challenges Expected for 2026
Larimer County's 2026 budget development occurs amid shifting revenue patterns that have affected recent budgets. The county's primary funding sources include property taxes, which account for the largest revenue portion, along with sales taxes, federal and state grants, and service fees.
Property taxes remain the county's most stable revenue source, with the operating mill levy maintained at 21.571 mills since 1992. However, grant funding has fluctuated significantly, with intergovernmental revenues decreasing 22% in the current year due to the conclusion of federal disaster recovery funds, according to budget documents from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.
Sales tax revenues have remained relatively flat in recent years, while some service fees are increasing to maintain operations. The county collects dedicated sales taxes for specific services including jail operations and open space preservation.
Major Spending Categories Under Review
The upcoming budget will address several major spending categories that define county services for Larimer and Weld County residents. Public safety, including law enforcement and emergency services, represents a significant budget portion as these constitute mandated services under Colorado statutes.
Infrastructure spending covers road maintenance, capital projects, and facility improvements. Recent budgets have included substantial capital investments, such as $30 million for landfill expansion and $11 million for Ranch Events Complex projects, according to county financial documents.
Human services funding supports social programs, public health initiatives, and assistance programs, with funding often dependent on state and federal grant availability. Administrative costs cover general government operations and support services necessary for county function.
The 2026 budget process emphasizes collaboration between departments and commissioners to identify priorities while maintaining essential services. County staff conducted what Volker described as a "brief retreat" to establish direction for the upcoming fiscal year.
Residents can participate in the budget process through public hearings scheduled after the October 15 proposal submission. Information about hearing dates and budget details will be available through the county's website and official announcements once the proposal is formally submitted to commissioners.