CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The Montgomery County Commission unanimously approved the 2025-26 fiscal year budget Monday night, with funding for some high-profile initiatives but no tax increase.
Details of the FY 2026 budget include the county budgeting for capital projects such as a new fairgrounds and a new precinct for both the Montgomery County Fire Service and the Sheriff’s Office. The budget keeps the property tax rate at $2.10 per $100 of assessed value.
In a news release Monday night, Mayor Wes Golden said ensuring the safety of residents and their property is essential to sustaining the county’s growth as they move into the new fiscal year.
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“We are allocating resources and funding to the Montgomery County Fire Department, Sheriff’s Office, and EMS to strengthen emergency response capabilities and ensure the residents in our community and their property are well protected,” Golden said. “And a thriving community is rooted in a high quality of life, offering strong opportunities in industry, commerce, education and recreation to attract and retain businesses, residents, soldiers and families. By investing in amenities, schools, parks, events and recreational opportunities, we create an environment that supports those who call our community home.”
Budget highlights include $37 million in proposed capital projects, a 2% COLA for all county and CMCSS employees and raising CMCSS teacher starting salaries to $50,000, the release said.
In addition, the county highlighted several public safety budget items:
- Funding for a new downtown Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Station.
- Funding for eight full-time paramedics with an additional ambulance to provide added coverage for north Clarksville.
- Funding for a new fire station and sheriff precinct in the Kirkwood area, along with additional personnel.
- Funding for a new fire engine and additional equipment.
As for quality of life, Montgomery County highlighted:
- $6 million in funding for CMCSS Capital Projects, including replacement of unit vents and automatic centralized HVAC control at Woodlawn Elementary, roof replacement at Montgomery Central Middle, and system-wide parking and paving improvements.
- Funding for Phase I of a County Fairgrounds: planning, design and infrastructure (roadway, mass grading, and restrooms).
- Funding to renovate and convert the old Lone Oak Church into a community center.
- Funding for renovations and upgrades to Woodlawn Park.
- Personnel and equipment to operate new facilities coming online: Stokes Field, North Branch Library, and the Animal Control Facility.
“Our department heads, elected officials and commissioners collaborated to deliver a balanced budget that invests in community priorities with no tax increase,” Golden said. “The 2026 Budget reflects a shared commitment to meeting the needs of the residents we serve every day. I am proud of the teamwork that has gone into this process and excited about what is ahead as we look forward.”