UPDATE: The Washington County Board has just approved a $148.9 million property tax levy for 2026, marking a 6.95% increase over last year — the lowest levy increase in the metro area. This significant decision was made unanimously on Tuesday, reflecting a commitment to managing costs during challenging times.
Homeowners in Washington County can expect to see a modest increase in their property taxes. For those owning a median-valued home priced at $423,700, the increase will amount to approximately $41 annually, translating to a 4.2% rise due to a median property value increase of 1.7%, according to County Administrator Kevin Corbid.
The board’s approval also included a levy allocation of $1.2 million for the Land and Water Legacy Program and $660,000 for the Washington County Regional Rail Authority, maintaining funding levels from previous years. The comprehensive 2026 budget totals $300 million, comprising $117.5 million for capital projects and $16.8 million for debt service.
“This budget provides critical funding for mandated and core services that directly impact residents’ lives and support the community,” said Corbid. The budget addresses rising costs associated with federal mandates, employee compensation adjustments, and inflationary pressures on essential services.
In terms of capital investments, Washington County plans to allocate $113.2 million for road and bridge projects, alongside significant upgrades including a $17 million renovation of the Park Grove Library in Cottage Grove and $1.3 million for a new Central Yard Waste site in Afton. The budget also earmarks funds for electric vehicle charging stations, aiming to enhance sustainability in the region.
With increasing service demands, the budget seeks to tackle waitlists and backlogs in human services while maintaining the employee-to-resident ratio at five employees per 1,000 residents.
The county’s five-year capital improvement plan, approved in a separate 4-1 vote, outlines over $493.8 million in community investments, spanning 105 projects through 2030. This plan includes a proposed $40 million bond sale in 2027, focusing heavily on infrastructure, with 69% of funds directed toward roads and bridges.
Key projects within the five-year plan consist of corridor studies and safety improvements on various county highways, ensuring better connectivity and safety for residents. Additionally, the plan commits over $17.6 million for parks and trails, maintaining 4,800 acres of parkland and enhancing recreational opportunities.
For Washington County residents, these developments are crucial as they prepare for potential increases in service quality, infrastructure improvements, and overall community well-being. As the county moves forward, residents are encouraged to stay informed on how these changes will shape their everyday lives.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
