The Montgomery County Commission approves the 2026 budget and votes to exceed the revenue neutral rate.

 

In what has become a common scene during city and county meetings over the past few weeks, Montgomery County citizens came together at Monday's County Commission meeting to voice their disapproval at plans to increase property taxes. Those present discussed the issue in a respectful, yet firm manner as residents tell commissioners that taxes are too high.

 

In recent weeks, commissioners say they have trimmed more than $3 million from the 2026 budget in an attempt to keep the mill levy as low as possible. This year's levy is currently set at 44.999. Commissioner Mike Cordray says other taxing entities in the county also bear responsibility for increases.

 

Both Cordray and Commissioner Phil Clubine say they must do what is best for the long-term financial health of the county.

 

Both voted in favor of the budget and to exceed the revenue neutral rate. Commissioners did discuss the possibility of implementing a county-wide sales tax to help spread the tax burden, but that option would like not be cinsidered until 2027. Commissioner Robert Bever was not present at the meeting due to health reasons.