Montgomery County officials have approved a new budget for the 2026 fiscal year, projecting notable changes in tax levies, fund allocations, and property values, according to official county figures.
The total county tax levy for 2026 will drop to 126.68 mills, down from 129.91 mills last year, resulting in a net decrease of 3.23 mills. Despite the lower levy rate, increased property values mean the county will collect more revenue overall. The net assessed value in Montgomery County is set to rise by $4.69 million, bringing the value of one county-wide mill to $72,775, an increase of $4,694 over 2025.
General fund allocations for 2026 are rising slightly, reaching $3.5 million, up $98,682 from last year. Most departments will see modest increases. The Board of Supervisors' budget will rise by $7,519, bringing the total to $923,697, reflecting higher retirement matching and service contracts. The Sheriff's Office will see one of the largest increases—up $89,705 to $819,578—attributed mainly to salary increases, retirement matching, and a $55,000 capital outlay.
Several other major categories are holding steady or gaining slightly. Funding for Roads will increase by $44,669 to $564,709, Bridges by $31,028 to $481,043, and Fire Protection by $2,200 to $8,700. Solid waste and garbage services are set for a $15,936 bump to $67,936.
Some line items have remained unchanged, including the Airport, Ambulance Service, Welfare Department, and Health Department. The Library levy will decrease slightly by 0.16 mills, but the budgeted amount for the Regional Library will remain at $173,306.
Outside of the general fund, notable items include the American Rescue Plan Act allocation, which drops from $337,512 last year to zero for 2026, as cash reserves were depleted as of June 30, 2025. Volunteer Fire funding jumps by $9,600 to $58,325, supporting increases for several local departments.
The recap of county values shows 2026 assessed real property at $58.59 million, up nearly $669,000 from last year. Personal property will decrease by $1.48 million, while public utilities rise sharply by $3.81 million. Mobile homes and motor vehicles also increase in value, with total assessed values climbing to $105.38 million for 2026.
School district funding remains the largest portion of the county tax levy at 48.30 mills, followed by general government at 54.03 mills and roads and bridges at 17.34 mills. Special levies, Holmes Community College, and the Library round out the remainder.
The county reports a stable tax collection rate of 98 percent.
Bottom Line
Montgomery County will collect more revenue in the coming fiscal year even as it lowers the overall tax rate, due to higher property values across the county. With a total levy of 126.68 mills and a net assessed value rising by $4.69 million, the budget will support small increases for most departments, significant investment in public safety, and continued funding for schools, roads, and vital services.
This story was generated with assistance from Perplexity AI.
