February 3, 2017


In District Meeting with Disability Advocates

Last week I had the privilege of sitting down and enjoying coffee with two constituent advocates from People First Wisconsin. People First Wisconsin is a self-advocacy group for people with disabilities. This group helps individuals with disabilities voice their opinions on issues that matter to them.

I always enjoy speaking with constituents on issues that are important to them and figuring out ways I can help them down in Madison. Please contact my office if you would like set up a time to speak!


Transportation Audit

Last week the non-partisan Legislative Audit Bureau released their audit on the Department of Transportation State Highway Program. The audit revealed many inefficiencies and oversights which need to be addressed. In particular, the audit noted that the DOT's cost projections for highway programs have failed to factor in inflation and the increase in project costs over time.

While we must continue to find areas to gain efficiencies, the audit showed areas of potential savings to be only $43.8M, compared to the over $1B deficit we face in the transportation budget. We must find a sustainable source of funding for our infrastructure and I believe that all options should be on the table, including reforming the inefficiencies highlighted in the DOT audit.

As we begin the budget discussion, I believe that all projects are important, not just the ones in southeastern Wisconsin. Tourism plays a vital role in northern Wisconsin, and having a strong transportation system is vital to bringing billions of tourism dollars to our communities.

I look forward to working with my colleagues to find a sustainable solution for our transportation fund.


Capitol Centennial Celebration

This week in the Capitol we began the months long celebration of our State Capitol's 100th anniversary. We are blessed in Wisconsin to have such a  unique and beautiful State Capitol. I am in awe of the building every time I walk through its historic halls.

On the cold night of February 26, 1904, our Capitol caught fire and the majority of it burned to the ground.  As a result of the fire, our current Capitol initially came under construction in 1906 and was completed in 1917. There are 43 different types of stone from six countries and eight states. Additionally, in 2001, our Capitol was designated as a National Historic Landmark.

I encourage everyone to come see our Capitol and please let my office know when you will be visiting. We would be more than happy to set up a tour for you.


Upcoming Events in the District

Winter Festival

Winter Festival in Fish Creek will be taking place between February 3-5th. This annual festival is entering its 30th year and plays host to many different activities. There is a live DJ with competitions, including minnow racing, good food and drink. If you are interested you can click here.

February Fest

On Saturday, February 11th Pianist Andrew Armstrong will open the Peninsula Music Festival's annual February Fest. The concert, which will begin at 2 p.m., will take place at Shepherd of the Bay Lutheran Church in Ellison Bay. For more information, including concert schedules and prices, you can click here.


New Whitetails Unlimited License Plates

The Department of Transportation has released a new license plate for Wisconsin drivers to purchase. The newest plate is Sturgeon Bay's very own Whitetails Unlimited. If you would like more information on how to receive the Whitetails Unlimited license plate, you can click here.


In Closing...

Thank you for taking the time to read my E-Update. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact my office. Chris and Stamena look forward to working with you. Also, if you would like a State of Wisconsin 2015-2016 Blue Book or 2017 State Highway map free of charge, just send us an email!

                                Have a great weekend,                   

             Representative Joel Kitchens

 

 

     

As always, if you have any comments or thoughts regarding the subject of this
E-Update, please feel free to contact me.

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State Capitol Room 10 West - PO Box 8952, Madison, WI 53708
(608) 266-5350
Email: Rep.Kitchens@legis.wi.gov