Picture of Kane County Board members Bill Lenert (Chairman of the Finance Committee) and Vern Tepe (Chairman of the Transportation Committee)

Kane County Board Approves Balanced Fiscal Year 2027 Budget

Kane County Connects Staff 8/7/2026 5:00AM

The Kane County Board has approved a balanced Fiscal Year 2027 budget totaling just under $403 million, continuing the County's efforts to strengthen its long-term financial position while maintaining essential services.

"Balancing this year's budget required thoughtful planning, collaboration and a willingness to make difficult decisions," said Kane County Board Chairman Corinne Pierog. "We focused on identifying efficiencies and reducing expenses where possible while protecting the services our residents depend on every day. Just as importantly, we preserved our fund balance, ensuring Kane County remains on solid financial footing for the future."

For the first time in six years, Kane County's General Fund budget is balanced without using reserves. Fiscal Year 2027 operations will be fully supported by anticipated revenues.

Also noteworthy, the budget process was completed months before the start of the fiscal year, which begins on Dec. 1, 2026.

"This budget gives our department heads and elected officials more time to plan and begin implementing budgets that are approximately 5% lower than 2026 levels," said Bill Lenert, Chairman of the Kane County Board Finance Committee. "Our goal is to achieve these savings through attrition whenever possible, avoiding layoffs while continuing to support day-to-day operations. This process reflects our commitment to both taxpayers and County employees."

Overall, the Fiscal Year 2027 budget is approximately $7 million lower than the amended Fiscal Year 2026 budget.

The County's budget is divided into two primary components:

General Fund: Approximately $131.6 million, supporting core County operations and services.
Special Revenue and Other Funds: More than $271 million, consisting of revenues that are legally restricted for specific purposes, including transportation, public health, public safety, grants and other dedicated programs.

The Kane County Board extends its appreciation to the staff of the Kane County Finance Department, under the leadership of Finance Executive Director Kathleen Hopkinson, for their professionalism and expertise in developing the FY2027 budget.

To review the Fiscal Year 2027 budget and other Kane County financial documents, visit the Kane County Finance Department webpage.

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