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.
Historic Budget Proposal for Brown County in 2026
Brown County homeowners may see a reduced county tax in 2026 as County Executive Troy Streckenbach presented a proposed budget that features a record low property tax rate on October 1. The new budget includes a pretty significant drop in the property tax rate, which, if approved, will set the rate at $2.66—a decrease of 14 cents from the existing $2.80. This rate is poised to be the lowest recorded in Brown County history.
The County Board is set to meet on October 29 to approve the final budget. The proposed 2026 budget includes a levy of $96.25 million, accounting for approximately $1.5 million in net new construction and adjustments due to the closure of some tax increment districts.
Furthermore, under this proposal, the county’s outstanding debt is expected to be reduced by $7.76 million in 2026, bringing the total debt down to $29.08 million, marking the lowest level in over 35 years. Since taking office, Streckenbach has overseen the payment of nearly $128 million in county debt.
Investment in Infrastructure and Community Development
The proposed budget prioritizes community development with a robust allocation of $29.46 million for 17 construction projects. Notable improvements planned include enhancements for over 31 lane miles of roads, along with the continuation of work on the Southern Bridge Connector.
One of the major projects set to begin is at the Port of Green Bay, with a total budget of $55 million, funded through various sources, including $25.1 million in state and federal grants and $20 million in the state budget. Improvements at the port will encompass constructing a dock wall, developing stormwater management infrastructure, installing mooring features, raising site elevation, and dredging the Fox River for enhanced ship access.
The proposed budget also includes plans for the Ashwaubenon branch of the Brown County Library, which will open in winter 2026, to be renamed the Pamperin Family Branch Library with an investment of $7.5 million. This facility will feature meeting rooms, accessible restrooms, community reading rooms, and increased public computer access.
Additionally, renovation plans for the Third on the Square project aim to create 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. Construction is also set to begin on the Denmark Community Center, which will include the Denmark library branch, starting on October 15 with the help of a $4 million state grant.
Another notable project under review is a new entrance area for Bay Shore Park, which has a proposed budget of $2.5 million, contingent on final budget approval. Additionally, a $1.2 million project is underway for the creation of a paved trail connecting the Brown County Fairgrounds to the Fox River Trail, known as Fox River Trail West.
The overall budget proposal reflects efforts to balance fiscal responsibility with community development, with a stated goal of creating a community where families and businesses want to live, work, and play.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proposed property tax rate for 2026?
The proposed budget includes a pretty significant drop in the property tax rate, which, if approved, will set the rate at $2.66—a decrease of 14 cents from the existing $2.80.
What is the total proposed budget for 2026?
The budget levy is proposed at $96.25 million.
How will the budget affect county debt?
The county’s outstanding debt will be reduced by $7.76 million in 2026, bringing the total to $29.08 million, the lowest level in over 35 years.
What major construction projects are included in the budget?
Significant projects include improvements at the Port of Green Bay, enhancements for over 31 lane miles of roads, the Pamperin Family Branch Library, and the Denmark Community Center.
Key Features of the Brown County Proposed Budget
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Property Tax Rate | Decreased to $2.66, a drop of 14 cents |
| Total Budget Levy | $96.25 million |
| Outstanding Debt | Reduced by $7.76 million, total of $29.08 million |
| Construction Projects Budget | $29.46 million for 17 projects |
| Major Projects | Port of Green Bay Improvements, Pamperin Family Branch Library, Denmark Community Center |
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Author: Construction CA News
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