County commissioners unanimously adopted the Fiscal Year 27 budget and a five-year Capital Improvement Plan during a recent meeting, approving a $1.14 billion spending plan focused on mental health, senior services, and infrastructure.
Division Director of Budget Lori Cooke presented the proposed budget, noting there are no new net positions in any funds. The General Fund includes budgeted salary savings across all departments.
Officials said the adopted budget is final, and any changes must follow the Nevada Revised Statutes and Nevada Administrative Code. The plan will be submitted to the Nevada Department of Taxation by June 1. Residents will also have access to a “Budget 101” session this summer, along with the Washoe Checkbook tool to view real-time expenditures and revenues.
Cooke also outlined the Capital Improvement Plan, a rolling five-year framework for infrastructure projects costing more than $100,000 and lasting longer than one year. The plan includes the Capital Improvements Fund, Capital Facilities Tax Fund, Parks Fund, Utilities Fund, Roads Fund, Equipment Services Fund, and Other Funds. The total five-year plan exceeds $558 million.
Among the projects included is a $3.4 million Registrar of Voters warehouse that will house operations, personnel, and election storage once completed. The Parks Fund includes new lighting and sound equipment at Hawkins Amphitheater, along with an amphitheater and pollinator garden at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park. More than $63 million is allocated to the Utilities Fund for stormwater and water treatment projects.
Following the budget discussion, commissioners held a workshop on growth, housing, and infrastructure. No votes were taken, and the session was used to provide strategic direction to staff.
