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
Residents of Brown County may enjoy a reduced county tax rate in 2026, as County Executive Troy Streckenbach presented his proposed budget on October 1. This budget features a significant drop in the property tax rate, aiming to help property owners while supporting essential development initiatives.
If the proposed budget is approved, the property tax rate for 2026 will be the lowest recorded in Brown County history, decreasing by 14 cents from $2.80 to $2.66. The County Board is scheduled to meet on October 29 to approve the final budget. The proposed budget sets the budget levy at $96.25 million.
In this budget, approximately $1.5 million is accounted for in net new construction and necessary adjustments due to the closure of certain tax increment districts. Impressively, the county’s debt will see a reduction of $7.76 million in 2026, leaving the total outstanding debt at $29.08 million, the lowest level in over 35 years. Since taking office, financial management has led to a debt payment of nearly $128 million.
Infrastructure Investments
The proposed budget allocates $29.46 million for 17 construction projects throughout the county. Key infrastructure improvements will focus on over 31 lane miles of roads, addressing critical transportation needs. Continuing updates on the Southern Bridge Connector are also set for 2026, enhancing connectivity in the area.
One major initiative supported by the budget is the upcoming construction at the Port of Green Bay. The $55 million project will be funded through a combination of $25.1 million in state and federal grants, along with $20 million included in the state budget and additional harbor infrastructure grants. This project involves constructing a dock wall, creating stormwater management infrastructure, installing mooring features, raising site elevation, and dredging the Fox River to improve ship access.
Community Development Projects
The budget also focuses on community enhancements. The Ashwaubenon branch of the Brown County Library is set to open in winter 2026, renamed the Pamperin Family Branch Library. With a planned $7.5 million investment, the new facility will offer meeting rooms, accessible restrooms, community and reading rooms, and increased access to public computers.
Another project, the Third on the Square renovation, aims to provide space for the Central Library, Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC), and the Brown County Job Center. The estimated budget for this renovation stands at $27.2 million.
On October 15, construction is expected to begin on the Denmark Community Center, incorporating the Denmark library branch, utilizing a $4 million state grant. Additionally, a new entrance area for Bay Shore Park is proposed, with a budget of $2.5 million, pending final budget approval.
A project worth $1.2 million is also in the pipeline to create a paved trail, connecting the Brown County Fairgrounds to the Fox River Trail, named Fox River Trail West.
The budget proposal highlights the balance between fiscal responsibility and community development objectives, reinforcing the goal of creating a vibrant community where families and businesses thrive.
Key Features of the 2026 Budget Proposal
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Property Tax Rate | Decreased from $2.80 to $2.66, a 14 cent drop |
| 2026 Budget Levy | $96.25 million |
| Debt Reduction | Outstanding debt reduced by $7.76 million to $29.08 million |
| Infrastructure Investment | $29.46 million allocated for 17 construction projects. |
| Port of Green Bay Project | $55 million, combining grants and state budget funds. |
| Ashwaubenon Library | Opening in winter 2026 with a $7.5 million investment. |
| Renovation Budget for Third on the Square | $27.2 million |
| Denmark Community Center | Construction begins October 15 using a $4 million state grant. |
| Fox River Trail West | $1.2 million project for a paved trail |
FAQ Section
What is the proposed property tax rate for Brown County in 2026?
If approved, the 2026 property tax rate will be the lowest recorded in Brown County history, decreasing by 14 cents from $2.80 to $2.66.
How much will the budget levy be for 2026?
The proposed budget levy is $96.25 million.
What are some major projects included in the proposed budget?
The proposed budget includes allocations for 17 construction projects, $29.46 million for infrastructure improvements, and significant investments in the Port of Green Bay and library branches.
What is the timeline for community improvements?
Construction at the Port of Green Bay is set to begin soon, with additional projects, such as the Ashwaubenon branch of the library, scheduled to open in winter 2026.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
Author: Construction FL News
FLORIDA STAFF WRITER The FLORIDA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionflnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florida and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florida Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Florida and the Florida Home Builders Association, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Shutts & Bowen LLP. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
