DeForest presents 2027 budget with higher levy and lower tax rate

DeForest officials presented a proposed 2027 village budget on Oct. 6 that includes $17.28 million in spending and a property tax levy of $11.96 million, up from $10.4 million in the amended 2026 budget.

Finance Director Brandon Hennes said the plan covers costs with current revenue rather than drawing on fund balances. It includes $11.32 million in general-fund expenses and $5.36 million in debt service.

Impact on property taxes The proposed village tax rate is $5.70 per $1,000 of assessed value, 18 cents lower than the preceding year. A property assessed at the village's 2026 median of $372,600 would owe $2,123.82 in village taxes alone. Because assessments have increased, many owners could still pay more despite the lower rate.

The village's total assessed value rose an estimated 16.2%, from $2.37 billion to $2.75 billion. The village levy is only one part of residents' full property tax bills.

Staffing and other costs The draft allocates $177,162 for a 3% cost-of-living adjustment, $187,320 for two new positions, and an additional $137,325 for health insurance, representing a 17.5% increase. Officials discussed a higher-deductible health plan as an option for staff.

Trustees generally supported the draft and declined to use all of the village's available levy capacity, foregoing a possible further $300,000 increase. A budget listening session was announced for Oct. 15, with a public hearing and possible adoption scheduled for Nov. 17.