The Hamilton County Council comprises (from left) Steve Nation, Tim Griffin, Sue Maki, Ken Alexander, Amy Massillamany, Mark Hall, and Brad Beaver. (Photo provided)
Posted By: The Reporter September 5, 2025
Officials discuss SB1’s impacts on financing local government
The Hamilton County Council wrapped its 2026 budget hearings on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at the Hamilton County Judicial Center. Over the course of two days, councilors and staff worked collaboratively to bring the $324 million budget into line with revenue forecasts.
A major topic of discussion was the long-term impact of Senate Bill 1, Indiana’s recently passed property tax reform legislation. While supporters say it will save homeowners $1.3 billion over three years, critics argue it will significantly reduce local government resources.
County Financial Consultant Mike Reuter emphasized the challenge SB1 poses for Hamilton County.
“While the effects will not significantly impact the 2026 budget, future years will see reductions in property tax revenue and limits on levy growth,” Reuter said. “It’s important we plan ahead so Hamilton County can continue meeting the needs of a growing community despite these new fiscal pressures.”
This year’s hearings also marked a transition in county leadership, with more than a half dozen new department heads and elected officials participating in the process for the first time. Among them are new administrative officials for both the Council and Commissioners, 911 Dispatch, Community Corrections, and Emergency Operations, as well as the county’s newly elected Auditor Todd Clevenger and Surveyor Gary Duncan.
Council President Sue Maki applauded everyone for working collaboratively to reach a common goal.
Maki
“This year’s hearings were unlike any other,” Maki said. “So many people were new to this process, including myself as president of the council. I can’t thank everyone enough for making the tough adjustments and reductions in the budget so we can meet our revenue forecast.”
The final 2026 budget is scheduled to be adopted at a special session of the Hamilton County Council on Oct. 13 before being sent to the State of Indiana for approval. Once approved, it will go into effect Jan. 1, 2026.
