TO THE EDITOR:

As Chair of the Wright County Republicans, I am deeply concerned about Governor Walz’s proposed budget cuts, which shift mandatory state spending to county governments. This approach unfairly burdens counties like Wright County, threatening our financial stability and the equitable governance Minnesotans deserve. The governor’s plan includes a $1.3 billion reduction in health and human services spending over four years, with counties expected to shoulder a significant portion of these costs. For example, the five percent county share for residential services for disabled individuals alone saves the state $400 million. However, counties have limited revenue-raising tools, relying primarily on property taxes. This shift forces local governments to increase property taxes, disproportionately impacting rural and suburban residents with smaller tax bases. Many of the affected services, such as disability waivers, are mandated by federal or state law and cannot be reduced or eliminated. This leaves counties with no choice but to absorb the financial burden, undermining their ability to fund other critical services like infrastructure and public safety. Governor Walz’s budget shift may provide relief for the state, but does so at the expense of Minnesota’s counties and residents.  What needs to happen is for Gov. Walz to reverse the reckless spending spree he initiated with the 2023-34 legislative DFL trifecta.  Hone up to his mistakes and get budgets back to 2022 when we were financially solvent and sitting on an $18 billion surplus.  We urge state leaders to reject the Walz proposal and prioritize solutions that uphold the well-being of all Minnesotans.

Sincerely, 

Dan Schonhardt, 

Chair, Wright County 

Republicans