December 10, 2025 \u2013 The El Paso County Board of County Commissioners approved the County\u2019s balanced 2026 Budget, totaling $532.3 million. The adopted budget reflects the County\u2019s continued commitment to delivering high-quality public services, maintaining low taxes, and upholding long-term fiscal responsibility.<\/p>\n
Guided by the County\u2019s Strategic Plan, the 2026 Budget prioritizes Infrastructure, Service Quality, Community Trust, and Public Safety, while positioning the County to meet current demands and prepare for future needs.<\/p>\n
\u201cEl Paso County is in a strong financial position because of years of disciplined planning and data-driven decision-making,\u201d said El Paso County Board of County Commissioners Chair Carrie Geitner. \u201cThat stability allows us to continue delivering critical services without layoffs or furloughs, even as some jurisdictions and the state announce reductions. With a steady workforce, we can stay focused on what matters most to our residents\u2014strengthening public safety and making long-term investments in our infrastructure, including our roads. I am grateful for the leadership of County Administrator Bret Waters, Chief Financial Officer Nikki Simmons, and their teams.\u202fTheir commitment to strong fiscal stewardship helps ensure El Paso County remains well-positioned to meet the needs of our community.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cEl Paso County has long taken a careful and disciplined approach to budgeting,\u201d said Chief Financial Officer Nikki Simmons. \u201cBy relying on realistic revenue projections, closely monitoring expenditures, and planning with the future in mind, we\u2019ve been able to preserve essential services, maintain strong reserves, and support a stable workforce. The approved budget upholds that commitment, prioritizing the County\u2019s most critical needs while maintaining operations and staffing levels.\u201d<\/p>\n
Roads & Infrastructure:\u202f$59.1 million is allocated for Public Works, including $40.2 million in the Road & Bridge Budget. Included in the $40.2 million for Road and Bridge is $12 million for the pavement preservation program.
\nFacilities & Parks:\u202f$4.9 million, including $800,000 for park improvements and $4.1 million for facility upgrades
\nService Quality & Workforce:\u202fThe 2026 budget includes $6.7 million to strengthen recruitment, retention, and pay-for-performance efforts
\nOperational Enhancements:\u202f$160,000 across departments to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
\n23% fund balance reserve plus a $10 million emergency reserve, further reinforcing our commitment to long-term fiscal stability and preparedness.
\nA TABOR refund of $4.48 million from 2024 excess revenues will be issued as a flat credit to residential property owners.
\nThe County adopted a temporary mill levy reduction of 1.308 mills to remain under the 2026 TABOR cap for property tax revenue.<\/p>\n