The Wright County Board of Commissioners approved the 2026 fee schedule Tuesday following debate over a 24% increase in building permit fees.

Commissioner Dietrich opposed the permit fee increases, citing concerns about housing affordability. "Each step in that direction is only going to make housing more difficult for people to afford," Dietrich said, requesting fees remain at current levels. However, the motion to maintain existing permit fees failed for lack of a second.

County officials defended the increases as necessary to cover actual service costs. Building Official Barry Reinberger explained that staff time and travel expenses for inspections have increased, with contractors now required to submit photos that require additional review time. "We're getting more time spent and more miles driven to approve and get permits from start to finish," Reinberger said.

The board ultimately approved the fee schedule 3-1, with commissioners citing the need to avoid subsidizing permit costs with general taxpayer funds. The permit fees had remained relatively flat for several years before this adjustment.

In other business, the board approved a controversial rezoning request in Rockford Township despite opposition from the City of Hanover. The 3-1 vote came after the planning commission recommended approval following extended delays while the city and township attempted to reach an annexation agreement. Commissioners noted the city had ample time to act but failed to develop a formal annexation plan.