Sherburne County

Flock cameras record license plate numbers across a nationwide network to assist law enforcement investigations, but the technology has faced scrutiny regarding privacy concerns and data misuse. In response to this backlash, multiple locations in Minnesota have reported instances of vandalism or are electing to end their use of the camera system. Consequently, a website is available allowing people to check if their vehicle’s information was captured in the database.

Minnesota counties anticipate property tax increases due to the new Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act, which adds significant costs to their 2027 budgets. County leaders support the law but seek alternative funding methods, while the bill's sponsor questions the accuracy of projected expenses.

Minnesota counties attribute rising property taxes to unfunded state and federal mandates. Anoka County faces a $8.04 million cost from these mandates in 2027, contributing to a 28% tax levy increase, while Sherburne County cites unprecedented scale of mandates after the 2023 legislative session.

Sherburne County commissioners are considering a 9.6% property tax levy increase for 2027, driven by unfunded state and federal mandates and inflationary costs in the Health and Human Services Department. Residents expressed concern over the potential hike, citing financial strain despite the area's perceived affluence.