CLINTONVILLE, WI – The City of Clintonville has approved its 2026 budget, adopting a 26% increase in the tax levy, the largest jump the city has seen in at least seven years. Despite the levy hike, the city’s mill rate will drop to $9.90 per $1,000 of equalized value, thanks to a citywide property revaluation that significantly expanded the tax base.
City officials say the levy increase is driven primarily by the second phase of employee compensation adjustments identified in a recent wage study. Rising health and dental insurance costs, along with higher expenses for property insurance, waste services, and other operational needs, also contributed to the budget growth.
Some council members expressed concerns over the substantial increase, pointing out that prior annual levy changes have been far smaller. City leaders emphasized that no new services, staffing, or major projects were added for 2026; instead, available revenue was directed toward maintaining essential operations and meeting rising personnel-related costs.
Officials say the approved budget positions the city to keep pace with long-term financial obligations while continuing to provide core services for Clintonville residents.
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