BROWN COUNTY, WI (WTAQ) – While census numbers showed slow growth for Wisconsin as a whole, Brown County and the surrounding region are feeling good about their growth.
“I’m pleased to see that we had roughly an 8.4 percent growth in total population, or an equivalent to about 20,000 people,” said Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach. “From the standpoint that the county was second in terms of total growth, I think that’s just an amazing accomplishment. It really signifies that we are a regional economy.”
And that regional economy, Streckenbach says, is a major influence on the data. He credits the efforts of surrounding counties for helping drive more people and jobs to the area.
“I think that’s a sign that the counties in the region continue to do what is necessary to become a destination place for both employers and families to live,” Streckenbach told WTAQ News. “We’re a very mobile society. We love to work, but we also like to go out and play. So when we can see the region’s numbers going up overall? I think it’s a very positive sign for the overall long-term strength of our region.”
As for what all of the numbers mean for that long-term economic growth, Streckenbach is feeling good.
“Brown County has been very, very focused in on the lowering our debt, lowering our tax rate, making it affordable business-friendly community. We’ll continue to do that going forward, and I’m glad to see the numbers going up,” Streckenbach said. “Household incomes were going up, so that’s good to see. There are family-supporting jobs in this region, so for people looking for a change, Brown County is a great place…They’re all positive signs that our chamber and employers can broadcast to the wordl that they’re trying to get people to relocate here and to work for them.”
He’s also optimistic that growth will continue, especially as people look for work or search for places to relocate.
“We have help-wanted signs across the county. Our economy is thriving and the amount of growth and development that’s taking place is unprecedented, and it’s a positive sign…As we continue to really advocate for post secondary education, as we’re seeing the enrollment numbers growing in those areas as well. So that bodes well in terms of our long term workforce pipeline,” Streckenbach said. “We can’t let our foot off the gas in terms of our effort. We have to continue to invest in the community to attract those numbers so we can continue to see us growing.”
You can find all of the census information and quick facts here.
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