Franklin County fiscal office forecasts $56.8M in recurring 2027 general fund revenue

Teresa Beckner, the county chief financial officer, and Janelle Friese, the fiscal director, presented the board with the first public update on the 2027 general fund revenue forecast and the county's target-based budgeting approach.

"The 2027 general fund revenue forecast is $56,800,000," Friese said, and she noted that the figure reflects recurring operating revenue only and excludes one-time or legally restricted funds. Friese added that property tax revenue is forecast at $42,100,000, representing about 74% of the general fund.

The presenters described modest growth compared with the 2026 budget — about a $700,000 (1.2%) increase overall — and outlined next steps: comparing revenue to fixed costs and developing departmental spending targets before considering supplemental requests.

Beckner said the target-based approach starts with a revenue forecast and then sets spending targets so departments maintain core services; any new initiatives would be considered separately through supplemental funding.