County releases proposed 2026 budget that focuses on roads, facilities and staff investment
On Oct. 7, Mesa County released the proposed fiscal year 2026 budget during the administrative public hearing. The proposed budget outlined priorities that strengthen infrastructure, invest in employees and prepare for the future.
Key highlights
- Capital investments
- $3 million for critical HVAC replacements
- $2 million dedicated to preserving other key assets.
- $1.7 million to complete design work for Justice Center renovations
- Roads and bridges: $27 million in major infrastructure projects
- Improvements planned for 38 Road, 29 Road, Vega Road, and Orchard Avenue — leveraging state and federal grants to lower long-term costs.
- Over $1 million for surface treatments countywide
- Doubling crack seal work and boosting asphalt by 50% per district to extend road life and improve ride quality.
- Creation of a new Preservation Group focused on proactive maintenance of roads, bridges, and underground infrastructure.
- Long-term planning
- Major projects include road improvements on 32 ½ Road, 38 Road and E Road, as well as energy performance construction projects that reduce operating costs.
- Investing in employees
- Realigning Mesa County’s pay scale to stay competitive and retain top talent.
- Supporting employees to continue providing high-quality services to residents.
“Mesa County’s proposed 2026 budget balances immediate needs with long-term planning,” said Mesa County Administrator Todd Hollenbeck. “We are investing in our employees, the dedicated men and women who serve our community every day. At the same time, we’re strengthening critical infrastructure and ensuring fiscal responsibility.”
The total County budget is $240.6 million. This represents a slight decrease of 3.7% over the 2025 adopted budget. The net County budget, which deducts interfund transfers and internal services, totals $208.7 million.
The proposed General Fund budget includes $90.5 million in estimated revenue and $98.6 million in proposed appropriations.
Next steps
The proposed budget will be reviewed by the Board of County Commissioners before its final adoption on Dec. 9 at the administrative public hearing. Community members are encouraged to provide feedback before the final adoption:
- E-mail: mcadmin@mesacounty.us
- Board of County Commissioners’ hearings: Held at 9 a.m. on Tuesdays at 544 Rood Ave. Residents may provide feedback during the unscheduled business portion of the meeting. For upcoming hearings, visit mesacounty.us.
