NEW ULM — Brown County Commissioners unanimously approved a 2026 salary and per diem hike for commissioners Tuesday.

Commissioners will receive a 2026 salary of $31,982 plus $1,500 for the board chair and $500 for the vice chair. Daily per diem rose from $80 to $100.

“I think this is reasonable,” said Commissioner Scott Windschitl.

Action came on a motion by Commissioner Dave Borchert, seconded by Jeff Veerkamp.

By a 3-2 vote on an amended motion, commissioners approved raising daily per diem from $85 to $100 for county-appointed committee and commissioner members. This applies to all citizen members appointed annually by the county board.

Action came on a motion by Commissioner Borchert, seconded by Borchert. Commissioners Tony Berg and Scott Windschitl cast dissenting votes.

Commissioners unanimously approved a 3 percent cost of living adjustment to the 2026 county employee salary grid. Action came on a motion by Commissioner Berg, seconded by Commissioner Brian Braun.