Last updated: May 2026
Price County Executive and Administration Committees Tackle Budget, Broadband, and Behavioral Health in April Meetings
Two key committees met the week of April 14, 2026, addressing county finances, a 60-day broadband ultimatum, new behavioral health staffing, and the departure of two longtime supervisors.
The Price County Executive Committee and Administration Committee held back-to-back meetings in mid-April, covering ground from carbon credits to broadband to behavioral health staffing. Here’s what happened.
Executive Committee, April 16, 2026
The Executive Committee met at 9:00 a.m. on April 16 in the County Board Room, with all five members present: Chair Brian Ernst, Alan Barkstrom, Doug Erickson, Jeff Hallstrand, and Larry Palecek. County Administrator Nick Trimner and Supervisor Paula Houdek were also in attendance.
The meeting opened with an acknowledgment that this would be the final meeting for Supervisors Alan Barkstrom and Jeff Hallstrand, who were thanked for their service on the County Board.
Bug Tussel Broadband: 60-Day Deadline Issued
The most consequential discussion came early. Bug Tussel Vice President of Strategic Development Jesse Lane presented a general update on the company’s broadband expansion plans for Price County, and will provide a more detailed presentation at the full County Board meeting on April 28.
Lane outlined a proposal for six cell towers in separate locations across the area, with AT&T mentioned as a possible wireless provider. Other co-locators could also come on board as part of the plan. The County has been in ongoing communication with Bug Tussel, but progress has been slow enough that the County Chair issued a 60-day deadline for Bug Tussel to submit a concrete timeline and plan. The Chair reiterated the importance of receiving that timeline.
This is a significant development for residents in underserved areas who have been waiting for improved cellular and internet service.
County Finances: Sales Tax Down, Stumpage Revenue Down
The 2026 Monthly Financial Reports show a mixed picture:
General Fund: 23.46% of budget spent, 44% collected through March
– Health and Human Services: 19.40% spent, 38.27% collected
– County Cash: $11,634,683. Down 7% from March 2026
– Sales Tax: $85,908 in January 2026 . $3,979 less than January 2026
– Stumpage Sales: $281,143 in March 2026 . $178,814 less than March 2026
On the positive side, high-cost placement costs for both Children & Youth ($73,535) and AODA ($59,122) were down compared to the prior year . $50,013 and $16,487 less respectively.
The Treasurer’s report showed March revenue receipts of $4,025,955.55 and disbursements of $4,830,980.74. Total investments stood at $6,760,472.25 with a checking balance of $4,873,930.23.
Delinquent Property Taxes Rising
There are currently 46 parcels on the In Rem Delinquent 2022 tax list , up from 30 parcels at the same time in 2025. Property owners have 60 days after the court evaluation date to redeem their properties or pay delinquent taxes and fees in full.
New District Attorney and Coroner on the Job
Governor-appointed District Attorney Alexis Nash began work on April 6th, and her office is now operational. Governor-appointed Coroner Amy Casey has also started, with a Coroner election scheduled for fall 2026.
Also, seven auditors from Baker Tilly are conducting the yearly audit at the courthouse.
County Clerk: Spring Election Turnout Up
The County Clerk’s Office coordinated with 22 municipal clerks for the April 7th Spring Election. Price County turnout reached 41% , up significantly from 32% in April 2024. All election machines have received their yearly maintenance and are ready for the August 11th Partisan Primary and November 3rd General Election.
Register of Deeds Office
The ROD Office recorded 243 documents, processed 57 vital records applications, issued 224 vital record certificates, and conveyed over $5 million in straight sales. The Governor also signed updates to State Statute 59.43, modernizing the duties of the Register of Deeds.
Law Enforcement Radio: Up to $3.8M Project
The Committee approved an RFP for a consultant to advise on a major communication and technology project covering law enforcement radio equipment, Emergency Management communication capabilities, and cellular tower construction. The estimated cost could reach $3.8 million. Current law enforcement radio equipment is at end-of-life and decisions are needed soon. Six companies in the state could provide consulting services.
Motion Barkstrom/Palecek to allow administration to send the RFP. Carried.
Carbon Credits: 145,000 Available
Anew, the County’s carbon credit partner, met with the County Chair and Forestry Department. Price County officially has 145,000 carbon credits available for sale. Two pools of credits exist with different values , the first pool may sell for $18, $25 per credit, while the second pool may sell for 30, 40% less. A portion of the first sale could cover Anew’s setup costs.
The Committee discussed investment options for proceeds, including improving forest road access to increase timber sales and investing in Certificates of Deposit. Bayfield County’s experience was cited as a reference , their first sale covered costs, and their second sale netted $1 million.
Other Actions
Budget Amendments: Motion carried to approve budget amendments for FY2025, realigning the budget after previous resolutions and motions.
– Courthouse Electrical Panel: An RFP for bids to replace the courthouse electrical panel is being developed in coordination with Forestry & Parks/Buildings & Grounds.
– Monthly Vouchers: $1,344,985.90 in March 2026 vouchers approved.
– County Administrator at NACo Leadership Institute: Nick Trimner was selected to attend a 4-day County Leadership Institute in Washington D.C., May 31, June 5.
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Administration Committee . April 14, 2026
The Administration Committee met two days earlier on April 14, with Chair Dennis Wartgow presiding. Members present: Alan Barkstrom, Jeff Hallstrand, Paula Houdek, Jordan Spacek, and Dennis Wartgow. County Chair Brian Ernst, HR Manager Jennifer Miller, and County Administrator Nick Trimner were also present.
New Behavioral Health Position Approved
The most significant action was approving a new Behavioral Health Social Worker position for Children’s Long-Term Support (CLTS). The caseload has been steadily increasing and currently stands at approximately 71 cases , far exceeding the recommended 25, 30 clients per caseworker.
Motion Barkstrom/Hallstrand to approve the resolution and send it to the County Board of Supervisors for consideration. Carried.
This position addresses a clear need. With nearly three times the recommended caseload, behavioral health services for children in Price County have been stretched thin.
Personnel Updates
New hires:
– Tami Rueth . Part-time Correction Officer/Dispatcher (started 3/20/2026)
– Brandon Boggs . Part-time Deputy Sheriff (start date to be determined)
Departures:
– Drew Hauschild . Highway Operator (last day 3/26/2026)
– Brenda Baldwin . ADRC Specialist (last day 4/17/2026)
Open recruitments: Highway Operator, ADRC Specialist, Deputy Sheriff, Summer Hires (filled in Highway and Forestry departments), LTE Highway Mechanic/Fabricator, plus ongoing part-time positions for Deputy Sheriff, Correction Officer/Dispatcher, and Substitute Nutrition Site Managers.
County Administrator Accountability
The Committee discussed a proposal to change how the County Board reviews the County Administrator position, though no formal action was taken at this meeting.
Employee Handbook Revisions
The Committee discussed revising the Employee Handbook into a more reader-friendly format, with two proposed new policies: one addressing inclement weather and another on employee use of personal recording devices.
Elected Wages Process
Discussion on creating a procedure for setting future elected wages, with timing set before candidacy declaration dates. Comparable data from all 72 Wisconsin County Sheriff wages was referenced as useful to the process. The committee will review and present a formal proposal.
The meeting adjourned at 9:34 a.m.
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Why This Matters
These two meetings point out the competing pressures on Price County: a decline in sales tax and timber revenue alongside rising property tax delinquencies, while investments in broadband infrastructure and law enforcement communication systems carry multi-million dollar price tags. The 60-day Bug Tussel deadline signals the County is losing patience with the pace of broadband expansion , something residents in underserved areas will be watching closely. Meanwhile, the new behavioral health position acknowledges that children’s services in Price County have been operating well beyond capacity.
*Source: Price County Executive Committee Minutes, April 16, 2026; Price County Administration Committee Minutes, April 14, 2026. Agendas and minutes available at co.price.wi.us/agendacenter. Video recordings available at Price County WI Government YouTube.*
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Price County Board of Supervisors meet?
The Price County Board of Supervisors meets the third Wednesday of each month at the Price County Courthouse in Phillips. Agendas are posted at co.price.wi.us. Meetings are open to the public per Wisconsin open meetings law.
How do I contact Price County government offices?
The Price County Courthouse is at 104 S. Eyder Avenue in Phillips, WI 54555. The main phone number is (715) 339-2300. Individual department contacts are available on the Price County website at co.price.wi.us.
Where can I find Price County meeting agendas and minutes?
Meeting agendas, minutes, and schedules are posted on the Price County website at co.price.wi.us/agendacenter. Agendas are typically posted at least 24 hours before meetings per Wisconsin open meetings law.
What services does the Price County Sheriff’s Office provide?
The Price County Sheriff’s Office provides law enforcement, dispatch, jail operations, and civil process services. The office is located at the Price County Courthouse in Phillips and can be reached for non-emergencies at (715) 339-3614.
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