At their November 18 meeting, the Forest Preserves of Cook County Board of Commissioners approved the FY2026 Budget, which continues the Preserves’ steady financial trajectory while supporting vital ecological restoration, public programming and facility improvements across more than 70,000 acres of protected land.

The total budget for FY2026 is $194.1 million, an increase of approximately $4.8 million from the previous year. This includes a Corporate Fund budget of $92.6 million, which supports daily operations. Revenues include property tax collections totaling $143.2 million, personal property replacement taxes revenue totaling $12 million and nontax revenues totaling $12.1 million.

The $3.3 million increase in the Corporate Fund will allow the Forest Preserves to maintain momentum on key initiatives while investing in ongoing programs and establish planned initiatives for ecological restoration, public programs, improved amenities and critical maintenance. For the second year in a row, staffing levels are anticipated to remain steady in FY2026.

The Forest Preserves remains in a strong fiscal position, thanks to the 2022 referendum and years of disciplined financial stewardship. The “hold-steady” FY2026 Budget provides a balanced, responsible plan that prioritizes people, preserves and long-term stewardship across Cook County.

For more details on the budget process and the budget itself, visit our 2026 Budget webpage.