Shawano County residents can expect to see a nominal increase in their county tax rate in 2027 assuming the proposed budget and levy are approved by the county board later this month.
Supervisors will hold a public hearing on the budget at 3:15 p.m. Oct. 28 in the County Board Room at the courthouse.
“Total county revenues across all funds, including property taxes, are projected at $78,175,861.51 for 2026, compared with $80,725,549.45 proposed for 2027,” said Nichole Zuehl, county finance director.
Shawano County’s proposed 2027 budget includes $84.17 million in expenditures and $80.73 million in projected revenues to support county services, employees and infrastructure.
“The sheriff’s department, jail, and county roads and bridges represent the largest departmental funding needs,” Zuehl said. “The budget includes a 3% wage scale increase, performance-based step increases and funding for a 5% increase in health insurance premiums. Capital improvements include siding at the Lakeland Building, pavilion air handlers and boat slips at the (Shawano Lake) County Park.”
The proposed county tax rate rises from $3.76 to $3.84 per $1,000 of equalized property value, about 2.13%.
“Much of the levy increase supports debt service, while new construction provides approximately $217,440 in additional property tax funding for county operations,” Zuehl said.
The general fund’s total expenses are projected at $30.9 million for 2026, compared with $29.8 million proposed for 2027.
The debt service fund’s total expenses are $4.4 million for 2026, compared with $7.1 million proposed for 2027.
The state limits growth in the county’s operating property tax levy.
Zuehl said that for 2027, net new construction of 1.29% allows an additional $217,439.79 in operating levy across the county. Separate adjustments are allowed for qualifying debt service and other statutory items.
“The proposed county tax rate for 2027 is $3.84 per $1,000 of equalized property value, compared with $3.76 for 2026,” Zuehl said. “This budget reflects a strong team effort to support the services our residents rely on, invest in our employees and maintain county roads and facilities. We’re making thoughtful investments today that will serve Shawano County well into the future.”
kpasson@newmedia-wi.com
