The Jackson Town Council is nearing approval of its FY 2026 budget, proposing $38.9M in spending despite projected revenues of just $36.4M—leaving a $2.5M shortfall. To cover deficits, the town is tapping into its $14.6M general fund reserves, which officials warn could be depleted by 2030 if spending continues unchecked.
A major driver of the budget increase is a proposed $3.3M (15.6%) rise in personnel costs, bringing employee compensation to $24.6M—double what it was in 2017. This growth stems from inflation, market-based wage adjustments, and 30 new full-time positions, including START bus and police staffing.
Mayor Arne Jorgensen and some councilors view the deficit as unsustainable and are urging new taxes, while others want to delay. Jorgensen has suggested he may vote against the budget without added revenue streams, such as a sales or lodging tax.
In addition to operational spending, the council recently allocated $118,500 to support Central Wyoming College’s Jackson campus, though the full $237,000 requested was not granted. The funding came from reserves rather than new revenue, which some members, including Jorgensen, opposed.
The final budget vote is set for June 16.
Read more at Jackson Hole News & Guide here: https://www.jhnewsandguide.com/news/town_county/jackson-town-council-close-to-finalizing-budget-without-closing-2-5-million-deficit/article_0c22fb5e-197f-4ac3-8a0f-b8445d70b5b3.html
