JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The Stutsman County Commission is preparing themselves for future budget discussion.

Stutsman County Auditor Nicole Meland gave a preparation statement on the 2020 Budget Levy Limits. A preliminary budget must be approved on or before August 10th with the final budget approved by October 10th.

Meland says in discussions with Tax Director Tyler Perleberg, they’re estimating a taxable value in the county of $120,830,547, roughly 5.15% more than in 2019.

“While this proposal may exceed estimated new growth for the County, I believe it is still a conservative estimate of our current situation and is in-line with the CPI Midwest Index. The preliminary budget can be reduced prior to the final budget but is a ‘not to exceed’ budget and cannot be increased.”

No action was taken, but future budget discussions will take place.