Winnebago County budget and land-use rules face fiscal pressure

The county approved its $342.6 million fiscal year 2027 budget despite an approximately $8 million deficit, relying on reserves and restricting hiring; officials warn reserves could be depleted by 2029. County work now continues on data-center, cryptocurrency, solar, and battery-storage ordinances, with the data-center discussion scheduled to continue October 13 amid concerns about water, electricity, noise, and cooling systems.