WINONA, Minn. – A 2023 budget draft for Winona County calls for a 25% tax increase to meet rising costs. The interim county administrator, Maureen Holte drafted the budget and circulated copies to Couny Board members. Without the tax hike, Holte said, the county will run a deficit of $5 million next year. Holte’s budget recommendation sets of procedural series of events before the County Board settles on a final budget:
> August 23: Initial County Board discussion on a 2023 budget.
> September 13: Further Board discussion.
> Septemebr 27: The Board sets the preliminary levy for 2023 property taxes.
> December 27: The Board makes a final decision on the budget and taxes
Earlier: 2023 city budget asks 9.3% tax hike
Major line items
Holte explained these major pressures for a 25% tax hike.
> Legislative bickering. Democrats and Repubicans in the Legislature failed to failed to appove a sales tax refernsum. One result: $1.5 million in state funds toward debt payments on the new county jail.
> Jail staffing. The county cut the jail budget $1 million last year because the old jail was being phased out and feer jailers were needed. Woth the new jail opening in November, those positions need to be restored.
> Overall jail expenses. Another $500,00.
>. Comprehensive plan. An update to the plan is projected at $175,000, plus $375,00 the next yesar too.
> Technology. Up 12%, partly mostly for contracted services.
> Operaing expenses. Many departments projected 3% to 4% expenses. These include a 100% increase fuel.
> Health insurance. A 5% increase is expected.
Earlier: 2023 city budget asks 9.3% tax hike
Holte. Any belt-tightening possible? Holte told Board members that her department heads can be asked again to reduce their budget proposals. At best, however, it will be a challenge to get below a 10% increase, she said.