Why are Minnesota’s property tax increases so much more than Wisconsin’s?

Wisconsin counties are weighing smaller property tax levy increases than many Minnesota counties, as leaders point to differences in state policy.

Leaders in Polk County are considering a 3% levy increase. That figure is lower than any other reported Minnesota county, and county leaders said the gap comes from a difference in state structure.

Polk County is not alone; Chippewa County in central Wisconsin is considering a 2.19% increase, and Ozaukee County is at 2.57%. In Minnesota, double-digit increases are not uncommon.

Matt Hilgart of the Association of Minnesota Counties said there are a number of issues driving the difference. 

“If Wisconsin was dealing with the same SNAP error rates that Minnesota is, and the same looming disability waiver cost shifts that Minnesota is and the same changes to child protection laws … I would argue there is no way Wisconsin county levies would be at 3 o...