Lakeland Healthcare Center board reviews 2027 budget, highlights $146,000 levy cut

The Lakeland Healthcare Center Board of Trustees on Sept. 16 reviewed a proposed 2027 budget that officials said reduces the nursing home's tax levy request by $146,000 while increasing revenues by nearly $1,700,000 compared with prior years. "We are proud to present to you the 2027 Lakeland Healthcare Center proposed budget," a presenter told the board during the session.

Board and staff emphasized strategies to reduce reliance on property tax funding by using favorable reimbursement rates and operational changes. Staff reported an undesignated fund balance of $3,500,000 — above the ordinance-required minimum — and said they expect an end-of-year return around $1,700,000, which officials said positions the facility to address short-term capital needs without immediate levy increases.