The half-percent sales tax instituted in 2017 will remain in place in Kewaunee County for the foreseeable future. The Kewaunee County Board approved the second reading of the ordinance last Tuesday, removing the Dec. 31, 2026, sunset date. The action was required to take place at least 120 days before the original repeal date. The amended ordinance would still allow a future Kewaunee County Board to repeal the tax. Keeping the sales tax in place also keeps Kewaunee County among the 70 Wisconsin counties that have one, with Waukesha and Winnebago counties the lone exceptions. Board Chair Dan Olson says the sales tax has proved to be an important revenue source for the county and one that helps county officials form their budget. With the vote in the rearview mirror, Olson is confident the county will not spend beyond its means.

During last Tuesday’s meeting, the Kewaunee County Board also approved the purchase of the property in the Town of Casco where its hot mix plant is located. During his comments, Olson also reiterated the position of the Wisconsin Counties Association that its meetings should not be recorded, pointing to open records maintenance issues as the main concern.