WOODBURY, MN (WNN) – The Washington County Board of Commissioners has “serious concerns” about some state budget proposals that could cost the county $3 million and lead to a 3-5 percent increase in the tax levy. The board approved a letter outlining its concerns at its April 22 meeting that was addressed to state legislators who represent the county.

The biggest worry is that the state budget will shift more of the cost of required public services to the county. Their concern applies to budgets proposed by the governor, House, and Senate. The board estimates the county could lose $658,000 in revenue and see increased expenditures of $2,540,000.

“Shifting state costs to counties does not provide relief to our residents and businesses, rather it may force the County to impose a record-high levy increase to continue providing the safety-net services mandated by the state, which are often of greatest need in difficult economic times,” the letter states.

The letter adds that the county is already seeing rising costs in purchasing goods and services as well as increases in employee costs due to inflation. 

A state revenue forecast in March projected the state will see a $456 million surplus for fiscal years 2026-2027, but that’s down $160 million from the November 2024 forecast. More alarming, the state faces a deficit of almost $6 billion in fiscal years 2028-2029.

The letter was signed by chair Stan Karowski (District 2) on behalf of the board. The other four commissioners are Fran Miron (District 1), Bethany Cox (District 3), Karla Bigham (District 4), and Michelle Clasen (District 5).