Allamakee County opens public hearing on proposed FY27 maximum property tax levy; residents raise concerns about public safety, compensation and elderly relief

The Allamakee County Board of Supervisors opened a public hearing March 23 on the proposed FY27 maximum property tax levy and heard a range of comments from residents and county officials.

Tom Clark, Chairperson of the Board of Supervisors, called the meeting to order and Supervisor Keatley moved — with Supervisor Byrnes seconding — to open the public hearing (Motion 26.109). The motion carried, with all members voting AYE.

During the public comment period, speakers focused on several budget pressures tied to the levy. Commenters cited expenses related to the county’s Public Safety Center and urged the board to consider how those costs affect the overall levy. Sheriff Clark Mellick said county technology costs and the lifespan of vehicles and other equipment have changed compared with several years ago, increasing replacement and maintenance needs.

Members of the public also questioned proposed Compensation Board raises and asked for clarity about how increases would be funded and how they would affect taxpayers. Several commenters emphasized that rural property owners and city property owners could see different percentage impacts under the levy and asked the board to weigh those differences when setting rates.

Other remarks addressed spending for the Conservation and Driftless Center and asked how much county land is currently held in forest reserve. Commenters expressed concern for elderly residents on fixed incomes and requested information on elderly tax credits and any relevant legislation that could alter tax relief.

Questions about county equipment policy drew a response from County Engineer Brian Ridenour, who explained the county’s approach to buying used versus new equipment, and outlined cost drivers for Secondary Roads purchases. Insurance costs for equipment and vehicles were also raised as part of that discussion.

The minutes list several county staff and residents present at various times, including Denise Beyer, Auditor/Clerk. After public comments concluded, Supervisor Byrnes moved and Supervisor Keatley seconded to close the public hearing (Motion 26.110); the motion carried with all members voting AYE. The record in these minutes documents only the opening and closing of the public hearing; no final levy vote or levy amount is recorded in the provided minutes.

The board’s next procedural step on the FY27 levy is not specified in the minutes excerpt provided.