A Conversation on Taxes and Accountability

This week on Lean Local, Jim Schmitt is joined by Rod Goldhahn, Secretary of the Brown County Taxpayers Association, to discuss local taxes, government spending, and citizen involvement. Rod explains the association’s role in educating residents about public finances and encouraging participation in local government—especially as many local races continue to run unopposed. The conversation also examines rising budgets, personal accountability in public spending, and what it takes to reduce taxes at the local level. Jim and Rod also revisit the 1997 county sales tax originally approved to fund a new Packers stadium, a measure voters were told would eventually sunset but remains in place today. The episode outlines how the Taxpayers Association challenged the issue through public meetings, proposed referendums, and ultimately the court system. Guest: Rod Goldhahn