In case you missed the Park Board Meeting on August 5, 2025, below are some highlights to be aware of.
To view a full agenda and memos click HERE. To view a full video recording of the meeting click HERE.
Approval of 2026 Preliminary Budget
Commissioners voted 3 to 0 to approve the 2026 Fargo Park District preliminary budget as presented by staff, totaling $41.7 million. The balanced budget outlines key priorities in staffing, facility maintenance, and community programming, while projecting a slight decrease in the individual household property tax rate.
Revenue highlights:
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Property taxes: The Fargo Park District expects to collect $21.6 million in property taxes in 2026, a slight increase of $1.3 million from 2025. Despite this increase, the individual household property tax rate is projected to decrease slightly from 35.58 mills in 2025 to 35.53 mills in 2026. This is due to new growth in the city and a shift in funds from capital projects to the general fund.
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Charges for services: Revenue from programs, rentals and services is expected to increase by $422,905 following previously approved rate adjustments.
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State and grant funding: Income from state aid and grants is projected to increase by $820,221 thanks to already confirmed funding services.
Expenditure highlights:
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Staffing and benefits: The budget includes a proposed 3.5% salary increase for employees. Additionally, the Fargo Park District anticipates a 10% increase in health insurance benefits costs, pending final numbers.
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Administrative costs: Administrative expenses are projected to rise in 2026, primarily due to increased employee benefit costs, which are budgeted within the finance department for the entire district. As premiums for health insurance and related benefits continue to climb, this line item reflects those district-wide increases. The budget also includes $180,000 for scheduled technology equipment, marking a strategic shift toward centralized purchasing. This change is expected to improve efficiency and will be partially offset by reductions in equipment costs across individual departments.
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Park maintenance: Funding for ongoing maintenance and equipment replacement will grow by about $1.1 million, supporting the Fargo Park District’s commitment to centralized tech upgrades.
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Swimming pools: Pool-related expenses will decrease by $681,294 in 2026, as most major updates and equipment purchases were completed in 2025.
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Capital projects: An additional $135,204 is being set aside to support long-term capital improvements.
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Sale of assets: Revenue from the sale of property is projected to decrease by about $2 million, due to several sales being finalized in 2025.
What’s next?
The public budget hearing is scheduled for September 9, 2025 at 6 p.m. at the Fargo Parks Sports Center (6100 38th St. S., Fargo, N.D. 58104), where residents can learn more and provide feedback. While the preliminary budget is currently balanced, there is still ongoing work to finalize key areas including employee compensation, employee benefits and equipment planning.
The Fargo Park District remains committed to fiscal responsibility while continuing to invest in high-quality parks, programs and public spaces for the community.
To view the 2026 preliminary budget click HERE and scroll to page 5.
Media Contact:
Tori Benders, Marketing and Communications Specialist
Fargo Park District
406-839-6406
