LANCASTER, Ohio — The Fairfield County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $70.8 million General Fund budget for 2026 on Tuesday, marking a roughly 5.4% reduction from the current year’s $74.8 million spending plan.
The trimmed budget reflects deliberate restraint amid economic uncertainty while still prioritizing law enforcement, workforce development, and community needs, officials said.“The County remains committed to strengthening our workforce, housing, and transportation systems, while also managing the funding constraints faced by community support initiatives,” said Commission President Jeff Fix. “Fairfield County continues to prioritize law enforcement, dedicating nearly one-third of the General Fund to Sheriff’s Office operations. These investments reflect our ongoing commitment to the safety and well-being of our community.”The Sheriff’s Office and county jail will receive approximately $22.8 million in 2026 — 32.2% of the entire General Fund.
Commissioner Steve Davis emphasized that the approved spending level sits slightly below conservative 2026 revenue projections of $68.8 million, preserving a healthy cash carryover estimated at $46.1 million heading into the new year.“While the County remains fiscally strong on a relative and actual basis, we are monitoring developments that could meaningfully impact the County in 2026 and beyond,” Davis said.
The broader “all funds” budget, which includes grants, special revenue, and capital projects, was set at $251.3 million — up from $244.6 million in 2025, largely due to timed grant awards.2026 General Fund Highlights
- $550,000 additional investment in public safety
- $447,263 for IT network infrastructure upgrades
- $200,000 to support the county Visitation Center
- $150,000 for professional grant-writing services (Hicks Partners)
- $75,000 boost for cybersecurity
- $75,000 for regional planning and model zoning code development
- $104,000 for Ohio University Extension and nutrition education programs
- $60,000 for expanded Veteran Services outreach
Major Reductions
- $2.235 million drop in capital improvements (projects completed in 2025)
- $80,000 decrease in rental and lease expenses
Employees who exceed performance expectations can earn up to a 5% merit increase in 2026. For a worker earning $50,000, that equates to an additional $2,500 annually. The county’s cost for family health insurance is projected at $27,139 per employee, while single coverage will cost $10,482.The full 2026 budget document and financial reports are available at www.co.fairfield.oh.us.County leaders described the spending plan as responsible, flexible, and focused on core services — positioning Fairfield County to weather potential economic headwinds while continuing to invest in public safety and quality-of-life priorities.
