FAIRMONT — The Martin County Board of Commissioners got its first look at the preliminary 2027 county budget on Tuesday, with an initial levy increase showing at nearly 16 percent. However, commissioners emphasized that number is only a starting point and is expected to be reduced significantly before adoption. Much of the increase is tied to a proposed $2 million allocation for future electrical and HVAC improvements at the Law Enforcement Center. Commissioners said the project could be spread over multiple years and supplemented with federal funds and reserves, making the final levy increase much lower. In other action, the board approved a five percent rent increase for the Fairmont Police Department’s lease at the Law Enforcement Center beginning in 2027. Commissioners also awarded a $381,750 bid to Ankeny Builders for interior office renovations at 1200 North State Street in Fairmont, including replacement of damaged windows. The board also received budget requests from CREST and the South Central Volunteer Dive Team and approved installation of a voting window in the Auditor/Treasurer’s Office at a cost not to exceed $10,000.
