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A number of local agencies and government units are embarking on their 2026 budget planning a little extra early.  The fiscal ocean is shaping up to be more difficult to navigate than usual— coupled with unknown state aid.

The Comfort Lake Forest Lake Watershed District Board of Managers met for two hours last week and a workshop this week,  just to take a preliminary look at the budget for 2026. 

At this time, 2026 watershed district costs are projected to exceed revenues.  Manager Stephen Schmalz commented during discussion, “we can’t afford what’s in there now (budget)” and was advocating for a conservative tack.  Manager Jackie Anderson however, responded that the Board can’t “jump to conclusions” just yet and said she wants to start from a place where everybody’s concerns and issues are submitted and heard.  She added she is not going to support a “negative” budget.  The watershed district has to be sure it knows which local municipal and agency projects are planned for next year,  so the district isn’t spending time on anything  that’s redundant.

Manager Christopher Loth agreed budgeting presents a “difficult situation” but the managers are directing work that is very important. All the budget review should reconsider any intentions requiring borrowing.  

The managers are still looking at new headquarters for the district operations and to expand outreach and public education capabilities.  There is no specific site being considered and Anderson advised that she’d like to see more details on a design-build option so the district could cooperate with a contractor and lease a building to pay off the expenses.  Rental costs continue to increase and the existing offices in Forest Lake are under-sized for the functions desired.  The watershed district has been looking for a new location for a few years now.

Watershed district program offers expert advice and funding

The watershed district that serves the south end of Chisago County and northern part of Washington County is offering shoreline restoration assistance through its technical and financial program.  Participation in the shoreline program is as easy as going to the district website and filling out an electronic application form or email/call Aiden Read, land management specialist and get signed up.  Phone 651-583-6590 or see the Comfort Lake Forest Lake Watershed District website www.clflwd.org and look for native plantings and shoreline restoration.

The program provides mini grants of $500 and for larger projects like rain gardens there are additional funds.   The application period goes through July and then closes until next year in February.

Protect and restore water quality of the lake where you have property within the watershed district territory.

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