Ventura County supervisors approve $3.41 billion balanced budget

Ventura County supervisors approved a $3.41 billion balanced budget for fiscal year 2026-2027 at their June 16 meeting, according to the county’s June 16 press release. The spending plan adds $186 million in total appropriations, a 5.8 percent increase over the prior year, while holding staffing near 10,456 positions.

The General Fund will receive $1.54 billion under the adopted plan. The county kept its top-tier credit ratings: Aaa from Moody’s and AAA from Standard and Poor’s.

Five priority areas shaped the new budget. The Behavioral Health and Healthcare category funds a Mental Health Rehabilitation Center, a Psychiatric Health Facility, and a Crisis Stabilization Unit in east Ventura County. Housing and Homelessness Solutions received support for the Lewis Road Homekey+ project in unincorporated Camarillo. Emergency Preparedness and Public Safety includes the East County Family Justice Center. Infrastructure spending covers the Nyeland Community Center on the Oxnard Plain and Saticoy Park improvements. The Economic Vitality and Community Well-Being category includes workforce development and environmental sustainability programs.

Chair Jeff Gorell called the budget a commitment to responsible stewardship during shifting state and federal funding. County Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson said the plan requires strategic, data-driven choices to protect core services. Chief Financial Officer Scott Powers emphasized long-term stability and the ability to respond to future fiscal challenges.

The county said key financial reserves remain in place for emergencies and economic fluctuations.

No further action is currently scheduled.