Press Releases

Rob Henken or Jason Stein

Report explores link between state property tax limits and municipal spending

Finds spending patterns vary based on new construction growth

June 1, 2018

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State-imposed limits that tie municipal property tax increases to new construction are affecting local government spending overall as well as in specific areas such transportation and development, according to a new analysis by the Wisconsin Policy Forum. 

Rob Henken

Jason Stein Named Wisconsin Policy Forum Research Director

Longtime Capitol Reporter Will Lead Nonpartisan Research Team

April 17, 2018

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Jason Stein, a longtime State Capitol correspondent for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, has been named the Research Director of the Wisconsin Policy Forum (WPF), WPF President Rob Henken announced today.

Rob Henken or Dale Knapp

Report explores link between state property tax limits and new construction

Finds new construction has lagged historical rates since limits created

April 11, 2018

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In 2006, when Wisconsin policymakers first adopted legislation linking property tax limits on local governments to growth in new construction, rates of growth were relatively strong. Twelve years later, according to a new report by the Wisconsin Policy Forum, that is not the case; in fact, most cities and villages are experiencing growth rates of less than 1.5% annually.

Rob Henken or Dale Knapp

Two State Reports Show Wisconsin Ran a Surplus in 2017

However, They Disagree on Ending Balances

March 23, 2018

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Although they employ different methods and measurements, two recent state reports agree that the state ran a surplus in 2017, but disagree on the state’s ending balance. One reports a positive balance of $569 million, while the other reports a negative balance of $1.6 billion. A new analysis by the Wisconsin Policy Forum (WPF) reconciles the difference.
 

David Callender or Dale Knapp

Wisconsin’s Fiscal Health Improving

But State Average or Below When Compared to Other States

March 12, 2018

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MADISON—A recovering economy, replenished unemployment fund, and recent decisions not to “raid” segregated funds have all contributed to Wisconsin’s improving fiscal health since 2010, according to a new report from the Wisconsin Policy Forum (WPF). Despite these recent gains, however, the state remains near or below average when compared to other states.