Milwaukee South News

The Village Board has officially adopted the 2025 budget after a public hearing held on November 19, 2024. This decision follows a three-month process that involved input from the Village Board and collaboration among staff members and department heads. The budget is designed to maintain high-quality municipal services without major changes in staffing or service levels.

A notable change in the new budget is the decrease in the village's portion of the property tax levy by $608,379, marking a 5.5% reduction compared to last year. This was achieved by reducing the debt levy to mitigate assessment shifts and state lottery/first dollar credits effects. Consequently, the village tax rate will drop from $6.54 per $1,000 assessed value to $5.87.

Overall, General Fund revenues are set to increase by $135,073 or 1% over 2024 figures. Some key changes include an increase in state shared revenue by $16,873 (2.8%) and personal property/computer aid which sees a significant rise of $62,962 (629.4%). There are decreases expected in building-related permits while parking permits will see a $10,000 (20%) increase.

General Fund expenses are also projected to rise by $135,073 (1%) compared to last year. Employee wages will see a cost-of-living increase of 2.5%, with additional merit increases for non-represented employees averaging at 0.5%. Health insurance rates have increased by 8.3%, though overall costs only rise about 3.5% due to changes in employee enrollment.

Recycling Fund expenses are anticipated to go up by $21,296 (5.9%), leading to an increase in quarterly recycling fees from $15 to $17.

Planned projects for roads and facilities total approximately $4.4 million for 2025 with support from WisDOT aid amounting to $942,990.

In terms of facility improvements, projects valued at $193,159 will be supported through donations and CDBG grants.

For equipment replacement projects totaling around $1 million, funding will also come from donations and grants.

Community Center Playground ADA upgrades are included under Parks Improvement Plan with a budget allocation of $300,000 which incorporates funds rolled over from previous park improvements.

Further details on past budgets and financial statements can be accessed via the Finance Director/Treasurer department webpage.