September 21, 2023, OAKLAND COUNTY, MI. – During its meeting this morning, the Oakland County Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted the triennial county budget for fiscal years 2024-2026, which includes more than $1 billion for fiscal year 2024. 

"This budget reflects our values and places importance on improving the lives of people and our community,” Chair David T. Woodward (D-Royal Oak) said. “Passing this unanimous budget proves to everyone – Democrats and Republicans are doing this together. From improving roads, protecting public health and strengthening public safety, we’re demonstrating how Oakland County keeps being the greatest place to live, work and visit.”  

Adoption of the FY 2024 balanced budget follows an extensive, collaborative and bipartisan effort. The three-year budget was first proposed by County Executive David Coulter to the Board of Commissioners on July 20, 2023. Following this proposal, the Finance Committee conducted an in-depth review of the plan and hosted 22 budget hearings with county department leaders. 

Throughout the budget process, commissioners made adjustments to reflect needs and priorities and pass a true structurally balanced budget. Some final amendments were considered and included:  

• $6 million to leverage matching funds to improve local roads  
• $725,000 to support upgrading Taser equipment in the Sheriff’s Department 
• Improving funding to support our county animal shelter  
• Additional resources dedicated to performance auditing to increase transparency and oversight 

“This balanced budget is a testament to what we can accomplish when all county departments and stakeholders are heard,” said Commissioner Gwen Markham (D-Novi), who chairs the Finance Committee. “Through the budget process, including more than two dozen public meetings this summer, our commissioners have demonstrated that we continue to have a keen eye on fiscal responsibility, while also looking to the future. This work would not have been possible without the hard work of the Finance Committee, Board staff and the staff of every county department, and I thank them all for their efforts.”

The total budget funds for 2024, 2025 and 2026 are $1.080 billion, $1.088 billion and $1.108 billion, respectively. 

With the 2024-2026 budget, the county prioritizes a strong economy, healthy and safe residents and communities, and opportunities for residents to live their best lives.

For more information about the Board of Commissioners, please visit www.oakgov.com/boc or call 248-858-0100.