Counties derive their powers from the State. The State mandates many of the services we provide; some mandates are fully funded but many are not. The State has placed a levy limit on local governments. The increase in costs has been greater than the “allowed” increase in levy for many years now. And this is where the “rubber hits the road”.

The County’s budget is where priorities are set. In that document we decide where to spend the money, what services to provide, and what level to provide them. Most programs are funded with a combination of tax dollars and grants so cutting programs or services may not result in long term savings. I am concerned that if the trend continues, we will have to cut important, necessary services.

One obvious area of need is the highway department. Roads need to be maintained so they can be repaired and replaced on a reasonable timetable. We are in need of an expanded building within the next few years at a significant cost. We are playing catch-up now due to budget choices in the past.

Finally, a word about the Neighbors of Dunn County. I have heard some people say we should divest of the Neighbors. I strongly disagree. If it was sold it would most likely have lower quality of care and then eventually be sold again and/or closed. It is very important that we maintain this service for the people of Dunn County. It is filled with almost all county residents or a relative of a resident. Nursing homes in our area are closing at an alarming rate, (There are only two in Dunn County as of now.) and we need to provide this service for our residents. For the majority of past years Neighbors has had a positive cashflow. As we move forward, staffing should be less of a concern, putting the facility in even better shape.

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