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 experience a decrease in their county tax bill in 2026 as the County Executive proposed a budget featuring a significant drop in the property tax rate. On October 1, the proposal was presented, which, if approved, will lead to the lowest property tax rate recorded in Brown County history. The property tax rate is expected to fall by 14 cents, bringing it down from $2.80 to $2.66.
The County Board is slated to meet on October 29 to finalize and approve the budget. The proposed budget levy for 2026 is set at $96.25 million, which accounts for approximately $1.5 million related to net new construction and adjustments due to the closure of some tax increment districts.
Additionally, the county’s outstanding debt will experience a notable reduction of $7.76 million, culminating in a total debt level of $29.08 million—the lowest in over 35 years. Since taking office, the County Executive has overseen the payment of nearly $128 million in county debt, demonstrating a commitment to fiscal responsibility.
Major Infrastructure Projects on the Horizon
The proposed budget includes $29.46 million allocated for 17 construction projects aimed at enhancing the community. These projects include improvements planned for over 31 lane miles of roads and continued development on the Southern Bridge Connector throughout 2026.
A significant investment is earmarked for the Port of Green Bay, where construction is set to begin with a budget of $55 million. This funding will come from various sources, including $25.1 million in state and federal grants and $20 million included in the state budget, along with other harbor infrastructure grants. The improvements at the port aim to enhance access for ships and include constructing a dock wall, creating stormwater management infrastructure, installing mooring features, raising site elevation, and dredging the Fox River.
Another notable development will be the opening of the Ashwaubenon branch of the Brown County Library in winter 2026. The library will undergo a $7.5 million investment and will be renamed the Pamperin Family Branch Library. This facility will offer meeting rooms, accessible restrooms, community, and reading rooms, along with increased access to public computers.
Renovation plans for the Third on the Square project aim to create space for the Central Library, the ADRC, and the Brown County Job Center, with a budget of $27.2 million. Construction of the Denmark Community Center, which will house the Denmark library branch, is also scheduled to begin on October 15, utilizing a $4 million state grant.
In addition to these projects, a new entrance area for Bay Shore Park has been proposed, expected to cost $2.5 million, pending the final budget approval. There is also a $1.2 million project planned to create a paved trail known as “Fox River Trail West,” which will connect the Brown County Fairgrounds to the Fox River Trail.
This budget proposal reflects the county’s efforts to balance fiscal responsibility with important community development initiatives. The overarching goal includes creating a vibrant community where families and businesses are eager to reside, work, and play.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Proposed Property Tax Rate | $2.66 (decrease of 14 cents) |
| Budget Levy | $96.25 million |
| Outstanding Debt | $29.08 million (lowest in 35 years) |
| Construction Projects Budget | $29.46 million for 17 projects |
| Port of Green Bay Investment | $55 million |
| Pamperin Family Branch Library Investment | $7.5 million |
| Third on the Square Renovation Budget | $27.2 million |
| Denmark Community Center Grant | $4 million |
| Bay Shore Park Proposal | $2.5 million |
| Fox River Trail West Project | $1.2 million |
FAQ
What is the proposed property tax rate for 2026 in Brown County?
The proposed property tax rate will be the lowest recorded in Brown County history, decreasing by 14 cents from $2.80 to $2.66.
How much is the budget levy proposed for 2026?
The 2026 budget levy is proposed at $96.25 million.
What are the infrastructure projects planned for Brown County?
The proposed budget includes $29.46 million allocated for 17 construction projects, improvements for over 31 lane miles of roads, and development at the Port of Green Bay.
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Author: Construction NY News
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