UPDATE: Penobscot County Commissioners have just approved a critical $35.3 million budget for 2026 during their final meeting of the year on December 27, 2023. This unanimous decision comes amid an urgent financial crisis in the county jail, following a shocking $3.5 million budget shortfall that has escalated into a $7 million crisis.
The newly adopted budget marks an increase from the previous year’s $34.5 million, reflecting rising costs and the need for immediate reforms. The three commissioners—Andre Cushing, Dave Marshall, and Dan Tremble—faced a lengthy and contentious budgeting process this year, particularly after the jail budget deficit came to light. The county had previously relied on undesignated funds for jail operations, which has led to severe financial strain.
In November, commissioners initially proposed a budget of $36.1 million. However, after discussions with a 15-member budget advisory committee, they revised it down to $35.1 million, necessitating specific departmental cuts. Ultimately, the commissioners slashed approximately $850,000 in expenditures while identifying $150,000 in additional revenue, which allowed them to lower the tax burden on residents by nearly $1 million.
Crucial last-minute adjustments were made before the vote, including an additional $50,000 for building improvements and $20,000 for transitional administrative costs. The final changes resulted in a budget increase of nearly $4 million, or 15.6%, raising property tax contributions for county residents by the same percentage.
County Treasurer Glenn Mower highlighted that this increase translates to an additional 21 cents per $1,000 of property value, pushing the Bangor tax rate to potentially $17.91 per $1,000. For homeowners, this means a property valued at $200,000 could incur taxes of around $3,582.
Despite the substantial budget increase, the commissioners emphasized that the rise is not due to expanded county services. “It’s a big increase,” said Tremble, underscoring that the root cause lies in the jail deficit. Both Marshall and Cushing reiterated that a new jail facility and increased state funding are essential to mitigate these financial pressures.
Looking ahead, plans for a new jail may go to public vote as early as June, which could alleviate some budgetary strain by reducing costs associated with boarding out inmates. However, the commissioners warned that this alone will not resolve the ongoing budget challenges. Tremble stated, “The problem is not going to be solved until the state steps up and funds the jails the way that it’s supposed to be funding.”
As these developments unfold, residents and stakeholders are urged to stay informed about potential impacts on community services and property taxes. The urgency of the jail funding issue remains a pressing concern for Penobscot County, with significant implications for its future budgetary health.
Stay tuned for more updates on this critical issue as it develops.
