Supervisor Taylor Reiterates Opposition of County Tax Dollars for American Family Field Renovations

MILWAUKEE – This morning, Republicans in the State Legislature unveiled a plan to raise $600 million to fund repairs and upgrades to American Family Field using state and local taxes. County Supervisor Steve F. Taylor has long opposed the use of Milwaukee County tax levy to fund long-term renovations at American Family Field. Supervisor Taylor issued the following statement:  

“I heard for months about a Brewers stadium proposal which sticks it to Milwaukee County taxpayers. With today’s announcement, it became a reality. Any financial contributions should come from the State and from the Brewers.  What’s even more disappointing is that I believed Republicans stood for fiscal responsibility and protecting the taxpayers. This proposal cost taxpayers and the State more than double what Governor Evers wanted to spend.  

Supervisor Taylor added, “The Brewers proposed contribution is embarrassing and shows their lack of commitment to our community and its residents. This proposal is insulting to anyone with common sense and should be discarded. Time to go back to the drawing board or take it directly to the voters.” 

Supervisor Taylor authored a resolution in May 2023 opposing the use of the tax levy to fund renovations at American Family Field due to the implications it would have on the County’s overall budget. The resolution stated that Milwaukee County and its taxpayers have long partnered with the Milwaukee Brewers and related entities to ensure Major League Baseball remains in the community for the benefit of the community, region, and entire state. However, the resolution also noted that the use of local funds for this purpose would severely hinder Milwaukee County’s ability to adequately fund essential services residents rely on daily.  

The resolution argues that the State of Wisconsin reached a record surplus of $7.1 billion in 2023, enabling the state legislature flexibility in spending and policy measures, and suggests that any state funding for the ballpark should be provided through standalone legislation.  

The resolution was unanimously adopted by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors.  

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.