Rep. Goodwin Thanks Milwaukee Common Council for Restoring Fire Department Funding

MADISON, Wis. – State Representative Russell Antonio Goodwin Sr. (D-Milwaukee) issued the following statement today after the Milwaukee Common Council voted to override several mayoral budget vetoes. This included the restoration of critical funding for the Milwaukee Fire Department:

“I want to thank the Milwaukee Common Council for their leadership and decisive action in restoring essential funding to our city’s fire department. I applaud all three alderpersons that represent districts overlapping with Assembly District 12—Alderman Chambers, Alderman Westmoreland, and Alderwoman Taylor—for supporting this budget correction. This is an investment in the safety, stability, and future of our communities.”

Rep. Goodwin emphasized that this decision aligns with concerns he heard directly from Milwaukee Fire Department leadership:

“Just a few weeks ago, I met with the Assistant Fire Chief to discuss the ongoing challenges facing our fire department. From aging equipment and growing call volumes to staffing pressures and the need for modernized resources, our fire departments are stretched thin. Yet, our firefighters continue to show courage, excellence, and professionalism every single day. When they say they need support, we should listen.”

The restored funding will help ensure that firefighters have the tools, vehicles, and personnel necessary to respond quickly and effectively during emergencies. This will be particularly impactful for neighborhoods that have historically faced delayed or reduced services. As Rep. Goodwin noted:

“Public safety is not optional. When a resident calls 911, they deserve a fully prepared and fully equipped response. The Council’s vote demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting families, seniors, children, businesses, and every neighborhood across our city. Thank you again Alderman Chambers, Alderman Westmoreland, Alderwoman Taylor, and the rest of the Common Council for standing with our firefighters and standing up for the people we serve.

Today’s action is a win for Milwaukee, but it need not be the only one. As a State Representative, I remain committed to working with the Common Council, the Mayor’s office, and our public safety leaders to secure long-term solutions. This includes responsible state-level support, strategic investments, and sustained resources that prevent Milwaukee from facing these funding dilemmas year after year.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.