Today the Wisconsin Policy Forum published its summary analysis of the 2023 Milwaukee County Recommended Budget. Chairwoman Nicholson released the following statement:
“Today the Wisconsin Policy Forum affirmed that smart budgeting and better than expected revenues have kept Milwaukee County from having to make drastic service cuts this year, but a fiscal cliff is looming.
“Our intentional approach to allocating American Rescue Plan Act dollars through the ARPA Task Force is paying off. We have used these funds to make critical investments in human services, parks, and new technology instead of plugging holes in our operating budget. But these one-time funds will soon run out, and costs continue to outpace revenues.
“We need a sustainable funding source to ensure we can invest in services and amenities Milwaukee County residents need. The strong sales tax figures in this budget are a preview of what could happen if Milwaukee County is given the ability to adequately raise local revenue to solve local issues.
“I look forward to the County Board continuing to engage in this budget process using our guiding principles of racial equity, preparation, collaboration, sustainability, and decorum.”
The Board of Supervisors will hold its annual public hearing on the budget on Monday, November 1 at 6 p.m. at the Marcus Performing Arts Center.
Residents are encouraged to provide their budget priorities directly to Supervisors at the hearing. Residents may also sign up to speak at the hearing virtually by filling out the form found at www.milwaukee.gov/countyboard.
