The Sheboygan County Board convened on May 21, 2024, to discuss the impact of the county's sales tax, enacted seven years ago, on local finances and infrastructure. The meeting highlighted the significant revenue generated from the sales tax, which has amounted to approximately $80.6 million since its implementation in 2017. This revenue has been crucial for providing direct property tax relief, maintaining transportation systems, and supporting essential county services.

The board noted a marked decrease in reliance on property taxes, which fell from 36.7% of total revenues in 2016 to 28.1% in 2023. The mill rate, a measure of property tax per $1,000 of property value, also saw a decline from $5.62 in 2016 to $3.76 in 2024, showcasing the positive effects of the sales tax on taxpayers.

Additionally, the sales tax revenue has been allocated towards debt service reduction, contributing to a decrease in the county's debt from $36.8 million in 2017 to $30 million in 2023. The board reported that $7.3 million of sales tax revenue has been used for this purpose, further alleviating the financial burden on residents.

The meeting also addressed the distribution of sales tax revenue to local municipalities, which has totaled $11.3 million over the past seven years. This funding has been instrumental in supporting local transportation projects, enhancing overall infrastructure across the county.

In terms of road and bridge investments, the county has spent over $43 million on projects since the sales tax was enacted, completing 170 miles of road work. The board emphasized that these investments have increased significantly, with over $52 million dedicated to roads and equipment in the last seven years, a 104% increase compared to the previous period.

Overall, the discussions underscored the sales tax's role in improving financial stability, reducing property tax reliance, and enhancing infrastructure in Sheboygan County. The board expressed pride in these achievements and acknowledged the ongoing support from local municipalities and businesses.