Chelan County Passes 2026 Preliminary Budget

Chelan County's Board of County Commissioners has passed the preliminary budget for 2026, revealing a $3. 29 million funding deficit. The budget forecasts revenues of $58. 66 million against expenditures of nearly $61. 95 million.

Cathy Mulhall, the county administrator, described the preliminary budget as a "point in time" in the budgeting process and noted that weekly workshops will continue through November to address the deficit. The county is legally required to pass a preliminary budget, with final approval expected in mid-December. In comparison, the 2025 budget forecasts revenues of $55. 87 million and expenses of $60. 23 million, with plans to utilize about $4.

35 million from its $18 million reserves. Additionally, the commissioners have enacted a hiring freeze for all regular positions through 2026, allowing exceptions for critical roles. This proactive measure aims to help bridge the anticipated gap in 2026 while maintaining current staffing levels. The county's commitment to passing a balanced budget each year remains a priority.