RC City Council approves 2026 city budget unanimously

RICHLAND CENTER, Wis. (WRCO / WRCE) – City Administrator, Ashley Oliphant, presented the proposed 2026 city budget. It shows revenues increasing by 7.1% or $724,656 from $10.1 million to $10.9 million. Expenses increase 2.5% or $267,628 from $10.7 million to $11 million. The tax levy will increase by $3,302 from $2,332,552 to $2,335,854.

Wage and benefit changes for 2026 include and increase of 2.75% for city employees, 6% for a represented police officer; an increase of 14% for health insurance; and a WRS average of 1%.

Department changes include the dissolution of the Tourism Department; the closure of the Landfill Transfer Station; and a hiring freeze for the Clerk and Zoning Administrator.

It was noted that many may see a large increase in their property assessment, but it does not mean their taxes will increase as much. Mayor Todd Coppernoll shared that his assessment went up 87% but his tax increase went up less than 15%. Also remember that the taxes collected go to the schools, county and city.

The council approved the budget unanimously.

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