Issue Position: Taxes

Issue Position

In order to lower the overall tax burden on Wisconsin residents, all levels of government must prioritize spending, distinguishing between core services that must be provided and benefits that government simply cannot afford (and in all likelihood should have never been providing in the first place). Too often policy makers have lost sight of what should be core state functions -- public safety and infrastructure. The state must continue increasing accountability, identifying efficiencies, and identifying those functions which can be better served by the private sector. During my tenure as Chairman of the Ozaukee County Board, we reduced staffing by 18% without sacrificing core services. In addition, during this time the county tax levy remained 26% below CPI. And because of these efficiencies, the county was able to invest in public safety. Last year we strengthened county law enforcement by hiring a new crime analyst, a detective and two patrol deputies.

Moody's Quote on Ozaukee's improved bond rating from AA to AAA "Financial operations will likely remain solid given management's demonstrated commitment to maintaining operational balance and healthy reserves".

I do not support an additional regional tax for entertainment venues. Ozaukee and Washington County residents should not be asked to support cultural assets in the City of Milwaukee when our communities have unique assets that require attention.

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