Winnebago County hears public opposition to proposed half‑percent sales tax as board moves resolution forward with no recorded final vote

Winnebago County Board of Supervisors members heard more than a dozen public comments opposing a proposed half‑percent county sales and use tax during the public‑comment period of the meeting; Vice Chairman Farley moved to approve Resolution 0179 to submit an ordinance establishing the tax, but the transcript does not record a final roll‑call vote on that resolution.

The question matters because supporters say a local sales tax could supply money for long‑term capital needs and provide property‑tax relief, while multiple residents said the levy would hit renters, seniors and lower‑income households hardest. County Executive Hintz told the board any consideration of a sales tax should be “thoughtful, detailed, transparent, and follow a plan” that balances infrastructure needs and possible property‑tax relief.

Public commenters who identified themselves as Winnebago County residents repeatedly urged supervisors to reject the measure. Jay Schrader, who gave his address as 1295 North Lake Street in Neenah and said he worked for Turning Point, called the proposal…