Thurston County officials, including elected leaders and department heads, met to discuss plans for a smaller 2026 budget. The meeting is part of a series addressing a structural deficit affecting counties across Washington since property tax increases were capped in 2001, according to the Thurston County.
"Unlike federal or state agencies, Thurston County doesn't make laws, it carries them out," the report stated. About 70 percent of the county’s general fund is spent on law and justice services, leaving less for health, social services, corrections, and public defense. Many of these programs were once supported by state or federal funds that have since decreased, creating budget pressure as population and costs continue to rise, as reported by the Thurston County.
The county has purchased a downtown property using an existing bond that must be spent by October 2025. Officials said this will reduce general fund lease costs, improve service efficiency, and add to county assets. Public meetings are scheduled throughout the year, with recordings posted online. Residents can give input on the budget process in person, through Zoom, or by submitting written comments to the Clerk of the Board, as mentioned by the Thurston County.
