Debate soars as deadline looms
By Daniel Arens
Mercer County’s courthouse in Stanton filled up last week as taxpayers gathered to express concerns over the proposed 2020 budget.
Discussion hinged largely on the revaluation of “lake properties” adjacent to Lake Sakakawea, the nuances of specific little items within particular budgets where more cuts could be made and the brewing conflict between one county commissioner and the county auditor.
Although it proved contentious, Mercer County Commission Chairman Duane Scheurer opened the discussion on a positive note, pointing out that this year the commissioners were able to make enough cuts to prevent any increase in taxes.
“We’ve been presented a budget that is balanced,” Scheurer said. “The revenues are above the expenditures. At this moment, there will be no increase in taxes.”
