Brown County leaders took a decisive step for local families on Wednesday, approving a 2027 budget that promises both fiscal responsibility and vital infrastructure improvements. The Board of Supervisors voted 22-2 to adopt County Executive Troy Streckenbach’s plan, which lowers the property tax mill rate to a historic low while addressing long‑term service needs.
Record‑low mill rate
The new budget reduces the mill rate by 12 cents, from $2.66 to $2.54. County officials describe this as the lowest rate ever recorded in Brown County, delivering immediate relief to homeowners and reinforcing the administration’s commitment to prudent stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
Debt reduction and fiscal health
Under the plan, Brown County’s outstanding debt is projected to fall by $7.41 million in 2027, bringing the total to $22.44 million – the lowest level in more than 35 years. Since Streckenbach took office, the county has paid off nearly $134 million in debt, saving property taxpayers millions in interest payments.
Infrastructure investments
The budget earmarks $97.77 million for 2027, including about $1.5 million for new construction and the closure of several Tax Increment Districts. Major projects include continued work on the South Bridge Connector, nearly $18 million for nine road, bridge and infrastructure initiatives, and the installation of new flood monitors on the East River. Additional funding will support agriculture sediment basins to reduce phosphorous runoff.
Public‑service enhancements
Beyond roads and bridges, the plan adds a second mental‑health clinician to Human Services and expands open‑access hours for substance‑use assessments, reflecting a balanced approach to community well‑being and fiscal prudence.
County Executive’s perspective
Streckenbach emphasized the challenge of balancing essential services with taxpayer costs, noting, “I’m honored to put forth a budget we worked hard on that prioritizes a sustainable, long‑term approach which better aligns County revenue with the actual cost of delivering those services.”
The Board’s strong approval signals confidence in the administration’s direction and offers reassurance to families that their tax burden will remain manageable while critical projects move forward.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
