Crow Wing County Stressed, but Still Strong

The State of Crow Wing County is being described as under stress, but still strong and getting stronger, according to Administrator Tim Houle. He says economic uncertainties are increasing stress on county services. Demand for services are on the increase while aid from the state and other revenues are decreasing.

To deal with the drop in revenue, the county has laid-off 36 full time employees. Existing city workers are being asked to do more. Houle says the case load of human services has increased nearly 12 percent from a year ago.

Houle says despite the challenges the levy in Crow Wing County was up less than three percent, the lowest percentage increase in 10 years.