Mayor Rhodes-Conway on the Governor's Budget Address

I want to commend Governor Evers on his proposed budget, which will strengthen our communities, invest in our residents and move Wisconsin forward.

For too long our local governments have been operating under severe state revenue limits and diminishing state assistance. I am grateful that both the Governor and legislative leaders have recognized this cannot continue. Local governments provide the most direct services for our residents—plowing roads, collecting garbage, ensuring public safety, maintaining parks and much more. The proposal to send 20% of the state sales tax back to local communities is a much-needed investment in our communities.

The Governor has proposed bold steps to address the burgeoning crisis of mental health. The unprecedented challenges of the pandemic continue to affect our residents, especially our students. I applaud the Governor’s commitment to this critical need.

Instead of investing in the wealthy few, Governor Evers tax proposals aim to put the needs of hard-working Wisconsinites first—increasing the earned income tax credit to help lift children out of poverty; enhancing the homestead tax credit; and ensuring those receiving needed student debt relief are not punished with additional state taxes.

Despite what some politicians might want you to think, Wisconsin has some of the best run elections in the country. Recognizing that elections belong to the people, Governor Evers has proposed to make it easier for Wisconsinites to exercise this fundamental right—implementing automatic voter registration and investing in local election administration. I’m glad the Governor agrees that we need to make it safe and easy for every eligible voter to cast their ballot.

I want to thank the Governor for his leadership. His budget recognizes that Wisconsin is stronger when we invest in all our residents.