Montgomery County officials have outlined a monthlong process to develop and approve the fiscal year 2026–27 budget, including public meetings, workshops, and a final vote scheduled for Sept. 8.
Montgomery County commissioners have begun the process of crafting the fiscal year 2026-27 budget, setting a detailed timeline that includes months of planning, public input and workshops before final adoption in early September.
The effort formally launched April 9 and will continue with a kickoff presentation at the next Montgomery County Commissioners Court meeting on April 23, according to Budget Officer Amanda Carter.
The county’s budget process is divided into three phases: development, preliminary review and workshops, and final adoption with compensation updates.
The first phase, running from April 9 through July 15, focuses on building department budgets. During this period, county departments will receive training and budget packets from April 27 through May 1. The budget office will then meet with department heads and elected officials from May 7 through June 12 to review funding needs and priorities.
The second phase begins July 15, when a preliminary budget will be distributed to departments for review through July 17. The document is expected to be filed for public inspection with the county clerk and auditor by July 21.
A public presentation of the preliminary budget is scheduled for Aug. 6, offering residents an early look at spending plans. That same day, commissioners will open the floor for citizen comments, providing an opportunity for public input before decisions are finalized.
Budget workshops are set for Aug. 11-14, where commissioners are expected to refine spending proposals and address any remaining issues.
The final phase will culminate Sept. 8, when commissioners are scheduled to hold public hearings on both the proposed budget and tax rate before voting on adoption. The date marks a key milestone in the county’s annual financial planning process.
Following approval, the county’s compensation program will return to Commissioners Court on Sept. 17 for consideration. The first paycheck issued on Oct. 30 is expected to reflect the updated pay rates tied to the new fiscal year.
Officials say the structured timeline is designed to ensure transparency, coordination among departments, and opportunities for public participation throughout the process.
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