Public hearing on the proposed 2026 County Budget

RICHLAND CENTER, Wis. (WRCO / WRCE) – The Richland County Executive & Finance Standing Committee approved to move forward with a public hearing on the proposed 2026 County Budget at the County Board of Supervisors meeting.

The committee agreed in a session Thursday night to hold the hearing on Monday, Oct. 20. The 2026 budget includes revenues from the County sales tax in the estimated amount of $1.6 million and that the sum of $10,820,031 would be levied upon all taxable property in Richland County for County purposes.

Interim Ambulance Director Barb Scott submitted a report to the committee that the current staffing in the ambulance department has reached a critical point, compromising both safety and the ability to maintain services. They are actively advertising and interviewing but are struggling to recruit qualified candidates.

They are competing with other services who are offering large bonuses and compensation packages. Scott suggested an educational offering to staff in exchange for an 18-month commitment. The department has added verbiage for 24 hours per month call coverage commitment and also verbiage regarding passing the registry exam.

The Executive & Finance Committee approved sending the request to the full board of supervisors for action.

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