PITTSFIELD, Ill. — A release was issued from the office of Pike County Clerk/Recorder Natalie Roseberry on Wednesday, addressing ongoing review and reform of the county’s grim budget outlook for 2026. Other county departments have issued releases recently to assure taxpayers of the diligent refinement and efficiency employed within individual department budgets.

Grappling with a shortfall of almost a half-million dollars, the Pike County Board approved the 2026 budget with a property tax increase to help shore up the deficit. It’s anticipated the board will be forced to cut areas of the budget, in addition to the search for grants or other state assistance.