Sturgeon Bay Schools will see one of the lowest millage rates for residents in a generation in 2020. Business Manager Jake Holtz says that frugal budgeting and rising property values are the driving factors.

Holtz reiterates that the district isn't necessarily levying less but the increase in the taxable base helps bring each individual homeowner's share of the pie down. Home values continue to rise in the Sturgeon Bay area at a pace far exceeding inflation. That points to the necessity of affordable housing to keep younger residents in Door County. Changing demographics strain resources in the healthcare industry and make it harder for businesses to keep large-scale manufacturing nearby.