Brown County Administrator Sam Hansen

NEW ULM — Brown County Administrator Sam Hansen voiced concerns over Gov. Tim Walz’s proposed state budget in an email sent to county newspapers recently.

Hansen cited fears of substantial property tax increases to fund state-mandated services.

“Under the governor’s plan, counties would bear greater financial responsibility for essential services–such as Medicaid and waiver programs–without any control over program criteria, eligibility, or costs,” said Hansen.

He said the proposed budget could lead to a double-digit property tax hike in Brown County by 2026, potentially exceeding 20% due to the combination of state cost shifts and rising baseline expenses like wages, benefits, and inflation.

“It’s hard to know a hard number, since nothing is passed at this time. A 1% hike is about $175,000,” said Hansen.

“I want taxpayers to be aware of the prospects of a larger increase coming due to the state pushing their bill onto property taxpayers. They are not cutting anything from the state budget,” he said.

“These cost shifts don’t reduce government spending,” said Hansen. “Counties are required to provide the same services mandated by the state, but with fewer state dollars, leaving local property taxpayers to cover the gap.”

He said the financial impact could top $200 in property tax increases if the (state) budget is approved.

“Brown County is urging state lawmakers to reconsider the proposal, advocating instead for solutions that balance the budget at the state level or provide adequate financial assistance to counties,” said Hansen.

He encouraged residents to contact their state representatives and the governor’s office to voice their budget concerns.