Wisconsin Policy Forum Rings Alarm on Transit Fiscal Cliff
Chairwoman Nicholson statement on ‘Detour Ahead’ report
MILWAUKEE – Today the Wisconsin Policy Forum released a report titled “Detour Ahead,” which outlined Milwaukee County Transit System’s (MCTS) fiscal cliff and options to avert it. The report forecasts a potential $25.7 million funding gap for MCTS as early as 2025.
“Today the Wisconsin Policy Forum offered a clear-eyed assessment of the threat our transit system faces in the coming years,” said Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson. “High-quality public transit is essential to ensuring equitable access to opportunity and our region’s economic growth. Major cuts to service as outlined in this report would put both in great jeopardy.
“I share the Wisconsin Policy Forum’s optimism that there is real hope for a lasting solution to this problem. I continue to have productive conversations with policymakers in Madison about how we can come together to achieve a sustainable funding model for local governments in Wisconsin. Leaders across government, nonprofits, and the business community are unified in our efforts to ensure Milwaukee can preserve the quality-of-life services that make us a world-class region.
“Thank you to the Wisconsin Policy Forum for highlighting this important challenge. It is now up to us to come together on a solution.”
The report highlights several possible policy options that could minimize the need for service cuts. Included in these solutions is a 1% countywide sales tax increase—which Chairwoman Nicholson has advocated for as a leader of the Move Forward MKE coalition. A 1% sales tax would generate approximately $190 million in additional revenue annually.
Residents can learn more about sustainable solutions to ensure Milwaukee County’s fiscal future at www.moveforwardmke.com.
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.
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