Milwaukee – Today, Representative Bob Donovan (R-Greenfield) gave a statement regarding increased shared revenue and the plan for Milwaukee. The newly introduced shared revenue plan includes allocating 20% of the state sales tax revenue to local governments. A cost saving innovation fund comprised of $300 million would encourage the development of efficiencies between local governments – saving taxpayers in the future. Rep. Donovan said:

“The amount of time and effort that went into this proposal is truly remarkable. After countless hours of meetings and discussions, shared revenue will be transformed by a historic investment. There are too many people to thank for their hard work to get this finished. Everyone wins with this proposal. Local governments receive that needed boost while still being encouraged to save money when they can.”

This plan additionally works to strengthen Milwaukee’s future by allowing opportunities to increase the sales tax to address the unfunded pension, invest in our court system, and law enforcement. It specifically calls for staffing increases for the City of Milwaukee’s Police Department to 1,725 sworn officers with 175 detectives and 218 staff for the Fire Department.

“Extra shared revenue only matters if we reinvest in public safety in a meaningful way,” said Rep. Donovan. “Our public safety employee numbers have dwindled to dangerous levels. With this new money, we can begin to repair the mindset around public safety and right the wrongs that has plagued Milwaukee for years.”

“Everyone should be proud of their mayors and local officials who tirelessly advocated for their communities. I want to especially thank Milwaukee Mayor Johnson and County Executive Crowley for their willingness to have an honest discussion – something that was lacking for many years in the previous administration.”

Changes will also be made to the City of Milwaukee’s Police and Fire Commission and bring them in line with similar sized commissions across the country. Reallocating policy decisions to the police chief while retaining review responsibilities.

“I’ve worked my entire career to make Wisconsin a better place to live and raise a family. This plan offers a monumental opportunity to make good on that commitment and improve Milwaukee and Wisconsin for generations to come.”