The Brewer City Council sent a letter of “deep concern” to Penobscot County commissioners after the city was told the county tax could increase by 14% because of a $3.5 million budget shortfall .

The deficit stems from increasing jail costs that the state has not covered, creating an average annual deficit of $2.7 million since 2021. To cover the difference, municipalities would have to either cut their budgets to keep their current mill rates or raise taxes.

The City Council’s letter came in response to information presented at a Sept. 25 meeting with county commissioners and local leaders. Councilors said the response was warranted because of the alarming shortfall and the pressure put on towns and cities in the county because of it.

The letter calls on commissioners to explain why

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