Wisconsin residents are grappling with significantly rising property tax bills, marking the highest levels seen since 2018. The increase has been attributed to a combination of factors, including a 7.8% hike in K-12 property taxes due to referenda and budget decisions made by state lawmakers. Madison schools are a major contributor to this statewide increase, accounting for 17% of the rise in tax levies. Local taxpayers are facing mounting costs as state aid declines, exacerbating the financial burden on homeowners. There is an ongoing debate, with some blaming Governor Evers and the legislature for the increases, while others call for transparency and action to address unsustainable tax rates. With a reported state surplus of $4.6 billion, residents and legislators alike are pushing for a reassessment of funding priorities to alleviate the tax burden.