Brown County, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach has proposed a budget that features the lowest recorded property tax rate in Brown County history. The budget aims to help property owners by reducing the tax rate from $2.80 to $2.66 while also allocating funds for major infrastructure projects. The proposal includes significant investments in community development, including the opening of a new library branch and upgrades to existing facilities, all while ensuring fiscal responsibility and a reduction in county debt.
Brown County Executive Proposes 2026 Budget Featuring Record Low Property Tax Rate and Major Infrastructure Projects
Brown County homeowners may soon enjoy a reduced county tax in 2026, following a proposal presented by County Executive Troy Streckenbach on October 1. The proposed budget highlights a significant drop in the property tax rate, which, if approved, will reach the lowest recorded level in Brown County history, decreasing from $2.80 to $2.66 per $1,000 of assessed property value.
The County Board is set to meet on October 29 to approve the final budget, which proposes a total levy of $96.25 million. This budget accommodates approximately $1.5 million in net new construction while also adjusting for the closure of some tax increment districts. Notably, the county’s outstanding debt is expected to decrease by $7.76 million, bringing the total debt down to $29.08 million, the lowest level in over 35 years.
Since taking office, the County Executive has managed to supervise the payment of nearly $128 million in county debt. The proposed budget for 2026 also sets aside $29.46 million specifically for 17 significant construction projects aimed at enhancing public infrastructure.
Among the notable improvements is a plan to enhance over 31 lane miles of roads. Work will continue on the Southern Bridge Connector project throughout 2026, which is expected to improve transportation links in the area.
In an exciting development, construction is slated to begin at the Port of Green Bay with a budget of $55 million. Funding sources include $25.1 million in state and federal grants, $20 million from the state budget, and other harbor infrastructure grants. These port improvements will focus on crucial updates such as constructing a dock wall, enhancing stormwater management, installing mooring features, raising site elevation, and dredging the Fox River to allow better access for ships.
In addition to port improvements, the budget includes plans for the Ashwaubenon branch of the Brown County Library, set to open in winter 2026 under a new name, the Pamperin Family Branch Library. This project involves a $7.5 million investment aimed at providing community and reading rooms, meeting rooms, accessible restrooms, and improved public computer access.
The Third on the Square project is also on the agenda, featuring renovations that will incorporate space for the Central Library, the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC), and the Brown County Job Center, with a budget of $27.2 million. Furthermore, a new Denmark Community Center, which will house the Denmark library branch, is scheduled to break ground on October 15, utilizing a $4 million state grant.
Plans are underway for a new entrance area at Bay Shore Park, proposed with a budget of $2.5 million, which remains contingent upon budget approval. Another project, dubbed “Fox River Trail West,” involves a $1.2 million initiative to create a paved pathway connecting the Brown County Fairgrounds to the Fox River Trail.
This proposed budget represents ongoing efforts to balance fiscal responsibility with community development. The ultimate goal is to foster a welcoming community where families and businesses aspire to live, work, and enjoy recreational activities.
FAQ
What is the proposed property tax rate for Brown County in 2026?
The proposed property tax rate for 2026 will decrease by 14 cents from $2.80 to $2.66 per $1,000 of assessed property value.
What are the major infrastructure projects planned in the 2026 budget?
The 2026 budget includes $29.46 million allocated for 17 construction projects, including road improvements, a new Denmark Community Center, port enhancements, and library renovations.
How much will the county’s outstanding debt be in 2026?
The county’s outstanding debt is proposed to be reduced by $7.76 million, bringing the total to $29.08 million, the lowest level in over 35 years.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Proposed Property Tax Rate | $2.66 per $1,000 of assessed property value |
| Total Budget Levy | $96.25 million |
| Outstanding Debt in 2026 | $29.08 million |
| Funding for Construction Projects | $29.46 million |
| Major Projects Include | Port improvements, library renovations, new community center, road enhancements |
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Author: Construction TX News
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