We all agree that it would be irresponsible of the Town to expect to raise property taxes by 105%, as was reported in a recent Grand Chute Gazette article. That will not happen.
Four years ago, a committee was formed to look at the future space needs of the Town of Grand Chute. Our Town Hall was built in 2000. A lot has changed in the last 26 years. The committee concluded that we need more space to better serve the public. Our biggest needs are the overcrowded Police Department and Public Works.
Just as your family or business would do, we wanted to know how much we can comfortably afford. Last year we asked Ehlers Financial Advisors for a big picture evaluation. At the May 20, 2025 Board meeting, Ehlers Advisors presented an estimate of the 2025-2048 financials based on all of our projected capital expenditures over that period of time, to include street improvements, fire apparatus, snow plows, park improvements, etc. This projection also included an estimate of $48 million to complete a Town Hall expansion. The purpose of this exercise was to determine whether the Town had the borrowing capacity to even achieve such a goal, as well as what impact such a plan would have on our residents.
An interpretation of that report recently included in the aforementioned Grand Chute Gazette (not affiliated with the Town of Grand Chute) has caused some confusion. Misinterpretation of the price tag made it look as if the tax burden would be applied every year for 25 years! Looking more closely at the report, the $1289 (estimated tax burden from the Ehlers report for the Town Hall expansion) would be the total additional taxes on a $100,000 home to be paid over 25 years from 2025-2048. Or, $51.56 additional tax per year on a $100,000 home. I would caution that no decisions have been made on any of these projects or the impact on property tax.
Since the Ehlers analysis report, GC has been working with staff, architects and financial advisors to develop a phased approach to town hall improvements that make sense and fit with our strategic plan. Several options are being discussed. In April the Town Board agreed a Public Safety Building on the west side of Grand Chute would be the best solution to the Town’s space needs. This will not be done until the voters have had time to give input. The fact is, the Board must get a “grant of authority” from the electorate (you, the citizens of GC) before committing to a building project.
Plans are coming together for public informational meetings this fall. Recommended plans will be presented. Then, notice of a Town Meeting will be made where voters will decide whether to give the Town Board a grant of authority to proceed with the project.
Board meetings and workshops are recorded. Watch in real-time or watch recordings by going to Grand Chute | Government > Agendas & Minutes
Beth English
Town of Grand Chute Chair
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