Richland County seeks public input on proposed FY2026-2027 budget
May 1, 2026
Richland County welcomes feedback from the public on its operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins July 1, 2026, and ends June 30, 2027.
An in-person public hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, May 21 in Council Chambers at the County Administration Building, 2020 Hampton St., Columbia. The meeting will stream live on the County’s YouTube and Facebook pages.
Residents interested in giving comments on the budget at the public hearing must pre-register by emailing [email protected] by 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 19 and include their name, email address and the name of their organization, if applicable. On May 21, those who would like to comment should plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of the public hearing to check in.
Those who cannot attend the public hearing may also send written comments to the same email address to be read into the record. The deadline to submit written comments is also 5 p.m. May 19. Residents are welcome to attend the hearing even if they do not sign up to speak.
A second reading of the budget will take place at 6 p.m. June 4, with a third reading set for June 16 during the regularly scheduled County Council meeting.
County Council uses the budget to oversee the delivery of services, programs and resources. Residents are encouraged to review the recommended Budget Book for fiscal year 2026-27, which details the annual budget, on the County’s website by navigating to the Budget & Strategic Management webpage. By state law, the County must approve a balanced budget for the fiscal year before July 1.
About Richland County
The County Government is dedicated to providing exceptional public services through effective planning, proactive leadership, and inclusive governance to ensure that all residents, visitors, and businesses have equitable opportunities and improved quality of life today and in the future.
