Statement from Ald. Peter Burgelis on New Fiscal Transparency Measures and MPS Budget Accountability

Today, the Milwaukee Common Council unanimously adopted my resolution #251414 requiring all City departments to provide advance notice of significant budget variances. This policy mandates reporting when any account deficit or surplus is projected to exceed $100,000 or 5% of its budget. This measure is designed to ensure Milwaukee leaders identify emerging trends before they become crises. This proactive approach necessary now more than ever.

The need for such “early warning” systems is underscored by the deeply concerning news that Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) has overspent its budget by approximately $46 million. At a moment when residents are still absorbing historic school property tax increases from the 2024 referendum, it is troubling that MPS leadership is discussing speculative lead paint litigation while demonstrating an inability to live within its own budget. MPS gets it legal representation from the City Attorney’s Office, paid for by the City of Milwaukee, not school tax levy. City taxpayers should not be asked to subsidize legal strategies designed to deflect.

To that end, I am highlighting two key legislative actions taken by the Council to protect City resources: Budget Variance Resolution: This new policy ensures the City of Milwaukee avoids the “reactive explanations” currently being seen at other levels of government, including the recent shortfalls at MPS and Milwaukee County agencies. Resolution #251450: This recent action clarifies that City legal services are not an unlimited “blank check” for other governmental bodies. We must prevent speculative litigation from diverting focus and dollars away from essential City services. Litigation does not fix classrooms, remove lead, or balance budgets; only disciplined stewardship and responsible governance do.

While the City implements these commonsense transparency measures, taxpayers must demand the same level of accountability from MPS. Milwaukee families are being asked to pay more and sacrifice more. They deserve every level of government to protect every dollar of their investment. I will continue to oppose any effort that treats City legal resources or taxpayer funds as an “open tab.” Our focus must remain on fixing buildings, protecting children, and restoring public trust through fiscal discipline.

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.