AGP Executive Report

Milwaukee County Transit Oversight: A new audit says the Milwaukee County Transit System didn’t get some contracts reviewed or approved by the county board, raising questions about oversight for deals tied to labor and benefits. Tourism Boom: La Crosse County hit a record $532 million tourism economic impact in 2025, and Chippewa and Eau Claire counties also posted strong gains as Wisconsin’s visitor economy topped $27 billion statewide. Public Utilities Fight: Milwaukee Ald. Alex Brower is pushing a public utility model to replace We Energies, with a June 24 hearing laying out the legal path. Rural SNAP Pressure: Wisconsin Democrats warn Trump administration rules could squeeze SNAP access in rural areas, while new federal requirements may force small retailers to stock more variety. Road Safety: WisDOT is warning drivers to watch for pavement buckles as temperatures rise. STEM & Workforce: Arcadia schools won a $25,000 WEDC Fab Lab grant to expand automotive training, and Maydm named Dr. Shakkiah Curtis as CEO to grow STEM access for girls and youth of color. Health & Aging: Ozaukee ADRC will run the Stepping On falls-prevention program starting July 8. Sports: The Brewers agreed to a seven-year extension with prospect Luis Lara, and Milwaukee beat Oakland 15-14 in 12 innings in Las Vegas.

Democratic Gubernatorial Race: Joel Brennan launched his first statewide ad buy, a six-figure push across broadcast, cable and streaming ahead of the Aug. 11 primary, pitching his work in Gov. Tony Evers’ administration and his “fight for Wisconsin families” message. Workforce & Training: Bradford White is backing skilled trades education with water-heating product donations and PHCC support, including contributions to PHCC of Wisconsin. Great Lakes Ecology: Scientists say the invasive bloody red shrimp is now established in all five Great Lakes, with new sampling at Wisconsin Point and Duluth-Superior Harbor. Tourism Economy: Gov. Evers and the Department of Tourism announced a fourth straight record year, citing $27 billion in 2025 tourism impact, 117.9 million visits, and $1.7B+ in state and local revenue. Housing Demand: A new report projects Wisconsin’s working-age population will shrink faster than expected, cutting the state’s estimated housing need from 140,000 units to about 84,000. SNAP Access: A proposed USDA rule could make it harder for convenience stores to accept SNAP if they can’t stock more healthy foods. Sports (Local): The Brewers rallied for a wild 15-14, 12-inning win over the Athletics in Las Vegas.

Wisconsin Center District Shakeup: The board voted to terminate CEO Marty Brooks after allegations tied to misuse of district funds, bylaw/handbook violations, and misrepresentation, including questionable credit card activity. Milwaukee Public Safety Pressure: Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman told a city council committee he “took his eye off the ball” on nuisance-property enforcement as letters dropped sharply over recent years, while residents complain about slow response times. Milwaukee Education Funding Fight: Milwaukee reading leaders say DPI reneged on promised support for an early literacy initiative, putting the program at risk. Crime and Public Safety: West Allis police found “explosive materials” at a landscaping company tied to a bomb-making charge, and a Wisconsin teen was sentenced to life for the 2023 killing of a 5-year-old boy. Health Watch: Wisconsin pediatricians mark 20 years of the HPV vaccine, but nearly half of teens still aren’t getting shots. Energy and Jobs: Trump’s administration is directing up to $500 million for coal plant modernization, including work tied to the Columbia Energy Center in south-central Wisconsin. Housing and Development: Milwaukee-based J. Jeffers & Co. is set to begin a major apartment and bank redevelopment project in Kankakee. Business/Tech: NEWaukee launched an AI “Brand Trust Quotient” platform to measure brand trust from customer experiences. Environment: DNR and the Wisconsin Invasive Species Council announced 2026 invasive species action award winners.

Milwaukee Public Safety: The Milwaukee Common Council Steering & Rules Committee will hold a public hearing Monday, June 8, on what’s working and what still needs improvement after ongoing south-side crime concerns and a “South Side Safety Plan” effort. Affordable Housing: MF Housing Partners won $1.2M in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits for Borealis, a $15M Menasha senior apartment project with 53 units for ages 55+ and reduced rents tied to income. Healthy Homes Return: Milwaukee’s ECO Healthy Homes program is back after a pause tied to lost EPA grant funding, aiming to help residents spot environmental hazards and energy problems—especially after recent flooding and mold damage. Education Capacity: St. Augustine Prep Academy North Campus in Glendale is in final construction phases and set to open Aug. 17, adding K-8 and high school space on the former Cardinal Stritch site. Medicare for All Push: A new op-ed argues for Medicare for All as a response to medical debt and a broken health system. Wildfire Tech: Xcel Energy is using AI-powered wildfire detection cameras in Wisconsin and considering more sites in the north. Politics & War: Trump says he “didn’t guarantee” “no new wars” in an NBC “Meet the Press” interview, while Israel-Iran tensions continue. Sports (Brewers): Milwaukee completed a sweep of the Rockies, highlighted by Jacob Misiorowski’s record-setting velocity and Brice Turang’s big day.

Wisconsin Politics & Media Clash: President Trump’s “Meet the Press” interview taped in Chippewa Falls ended abruptly after Kristen Welker pressed him on election-fraud claims and a proposed “anti-weaponization” compensation fund; Trump called Welker and major networks “crooked” or “stupid,” then walked off in the rain. Middle East & Defense: Trump also dismissed the idea his Iran campaign broke his “no new wars” promise, saying he “didn’t guarantee” it and defending U.S. strikes as not an “endless war,” as U.S. forces reported intercepting Iranian missiles and drones near the Strait of Hormuz. Local Education & Workforce: Milwaukee School of Engineering released its Spring 2026 honors list, while a grant-funded K-12 medical assistant pathway helped six Milwaukee students graduate with medical certificates. Sports (Brewers): Milwaukee swept Colorado, blasting 12-4 with Jacob Misiorowski’s 103.7 mph record-setting pitch and a big sixth inning. Community: Dodge County Dairy Brunch drew nearly 1,800 people for June Dairy Month, and Lincoln Creek Week returns with free family events across Milwaukee.

Brewers Spotlight: Jacob Misiorowski lit up Coors Field with a record 103.7 mph pitch, dominating the Rockies in a 7-1 win while Brice Turang added two homers and Milwaukee’s bats kept rolling. Sports Watch: The same game had a scare when Tyler Freeman was hit in the helmet by a 98 mph pitch, but he walked off and was described as “seems fine.” Local Culture: Wauwatosa’s Art 64 returns this weekend with live screen-printing and a pop-up from Milwaukee streetwear brand Unfinished Legacy. Wisconsin Politics: A new wave of Republicans running for governor includes Wisconsin Rep. Tom Tiffany, who voted against certifying Biden’s Electoral College wins—raising fresh questions about election administration power if they win. Public Health: A CDC-linked salmonella outbreak tied to backyard chicken flocks has spread across many states, including Wisconsin, with children among those most affected. Community & Education: MSOE named local students to its Dean’s and Honors lists, highlighting continued academic wins in the Milwaukee area.

Severe Weather: Milwaukee saw 1.42 inches of rain on June 5—its heaviest day since early April—after a very dry May, with tornado warnings issued across parts of south-central Wisconsin (no confirmed tornadoes reported). Public Safety: Wisconsin DNR is stepping up ATV/UTV patrols for a safety push, citing 15 ATV/UTV fatalities so far in 2026. Higher Education: UW System Board of Regents approved a 2% tuition increase for 2026-27 and elected Regent Kyle Weatherly as president, with Ashok Rai as vice president. Politics & Agriculture: President Trump held a farm roundtable in Chippewa Falls, touting jobs and promising lower fuel and fertilizer costs while farmers pressed on input prices and trade. Local Economy/Community: Milwaukee’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center marked its 50th anniversary on Vliet Street with music, food, and family activities. Housing: A Wisconsin Fast Forward Workforce Training grant was awarded to Quasius Construction to expand training for 31 employees.

Rural Wisconsin Politics: President Trump returned to Chippewa Falls for a farm-focused roundtable, promising lower fertilizer and energy costs and touting rural tax incentives, while farmers voiced worries about tariffs and the Iran war’s impact on their finances. State Education: The UW System Board of Regents approved a 2% tuition increase for 2026-27, with fees rising as schools respond to higher costs after years of restraint. Public Safety: The DNR is stepping up ATV/UTV patrols as fatal crashes rise, rolling out new rules that include seatbelt requirements for UTV riders and limits on towing people on trails and ice. Health Care Policy: Dane County supervisors urged UW Health and Children’s Wisconsin to resume gender-affirming care for transgender youth after UW Health paused puberty blockers and hormones. Transit & Business: A Milwaukee conference set for June 25 will kick off a push to expand Wisconsin passenger rail, aiming to connect major cities with faster, more frequent service. Sports: The Brewers made a bullpen shakeup with DL Hall going on the IL and Jake Woodford designated for assignment; Milwaukee also rallied late to beat the Rockies 9-7 in 10 innings.

Universities & Education: UW–Stout officially became UW–Stout Polytechnic after a unanimous Board of Regents vote, underscoring its hands-on, lab-heavy technical focus. Local Governance & Transit: A Milwaukee audit raises questions about MCTS financial oversight, citing confusing reporting and officials’ plans to delay telling supervisors about a budget deficit. Energy & Industry: Talks between Xcel Energy and St. Croix County over a joint development agreement for a solar project collapsed, with Xcel saying it will file with the state Public Service Commission. Politics & Agriculture: President Trump held a Chippewa Falls farm roundtable, touting jobs and promising diesel prices could fall, while Democrats countered with gas-card handouts. Environment & Health: PFAS cleanup moved forward as Gov. Evers and DNR announced a first settlement with Tyco for Marinette County. Sports: The Brewers made roster moves after DL Hall’s pectoral strain, while the Giants crushed the Cubs 18-3.

NCAA Baseball: Super regionals kick off Friday with a “Survival 16” feel after top seeds fell early, setting up a high-stakes, four-day grind for Omaha tickets. Wisconsin Politics: The Wisconsin Supreme Court voted to create a committee to study and assess state judicial recusal rules, a move that delays immediate action amid fresh scrutiny of impartiality. Housing & Development: La Crosse landed $2.4 million in WHEDA tax credits to convert the old Lincoln Middle School into 51 affordable units and fund a 45-unit 7th Street project. State Schools & Costs: UW Board of Regents approved another tuition increase, continuing a multi-year rise that critics say will hit students hardest. Local Community: Manistique’s Summer Street Party returns June 12 with live music and family activities. Sports (Brewers): Milwaukee split its series with San Francisco after injuries sidelined relievers DL Hall and Grant Anderson in a 12-9 loss. Public Safety/Policy: A new SNAP rule could force many convenience stores to stock more food types, raising concerns for rural retailers.

UW Tuition: The Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents approved a 2% resident undergraduate tuition increase for 2026-27 (15-1), the fourth straight year, citing rising operating costs and inflation. Housing & WHEDA: WHEDA-backed affordable housing moves forward, including a $1.1M tax credit award for 45 units in La Crosse’s 7th Street Residencies and additional housing tax credits statewide. Higher Education Branding: UW-Stout officially renamed itself UW-Stout Polytechnic to better reflect its applied, career-focused mission. Public Transit: Milwaukee County Transit System is projected to end 2026 with a small budget surplus, helped by route changes and reduced fare evasion. Environment/Water: Tyco Fire Products agreed to a $10M PFAS settlement payment tied to remediation in Marinette, building on earlier company funding. Weather: Southeast Wisconsin is headed toward an ALERT DAY Friday for isolated severe storms, with strong winds and hail possible. Local Business & Community: Hartland’s Chamber launched its first Summer Market Series, and Ripon’s Horicon Bank concert series kicks off with Rising Phoenix. Sports: The Giants beat the Brewers 12-9 to split the series, while Milwaukee relievers DL Hall and Grant Anderson left with apparent injuries; meanwhile, reports say Bucks ownership is ready to trade Giannis as the 2026 season approaches.

Community & Culture: Cedarburg’s Hmong Wisconsin Chamber is launching the first Wisconsin Asian Summer Festival June 13 at Ozaukee County Fairgrounds, with free family activities, sports and dance competitions, and a ticketed evening concert. Politics & Agriculture: Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mandela Barnes unveiled an ag policy agenda ahead of President Trump’s Wisconsin visit, including antitrust enforcement, tariff refund efforts, expanded market access, right-to-repair for farm equipment, and limits on foreign/out-of-state farmland purchases. State Government & Health: The Joint Finance Committee approved funding to reduce Wisconsin’s DVR waitlist, with $600,000 in 2026 and $6.4 million in 2027 aimed at moving people off the list by June 30, 2027. Local Infrastructure: Dodge County is weighing long-term funding for road repairs, targeting higher annual reconstruction levels and considering tools like chip sealing. Weather: Warm-up continues through Thursday, then storms return later Thursday with an “ALERT DAY” Friday for isolated severe storms. Sports & Entertainment: Madison hosts the AmFam Championship PGA TOUR Champions event June 5-7, while Summerfest also features School of Rock students performing June 25-26.

State Politics: Army veteran Keith Purnell announced his Republican run for Wisconsin’s 94th Assembly District, challenging incumbent Steve Doyle, focusing on housing and rising everyday costs. Student Loans: Nevada AG Aaron Ford and a coalition of states sued the U.S. Department of Education over a new rule that narrows access to federal student loans for professional degree programs. Elections & Voting: The U.S. Postal Service proposed major changes to mail-in voting, including a new participation list that Wisconsin officials say could face legal fights. Housing & Finance: Gov. Evers and WHEDA announced $47.8 million in affordable housing tax credits, while Edvest 529 cut its plan manager fee to 0.04% after reaching $7 billion in assets. Data Centers & Energy: Shawano County leaders are weighing a data center moratorium; Sen. Kelda Roys unveiled an energy plan that includes statewide guardrails for data centers and AI. Local Government: Brown County Exec. Troy Streckenbach announced a task force to explore a partnership involving the Neville Public Museum and the Children’s Museum of Green Bay. Sports: The Brewers recalled LHP Robert Gasser and placed Rob Zastryzny on the IL with a trapezius strain as they host the Giants.

School Funding Push: Missy Hughes pledged to opt Wisconsin into the new federal scholarship tax credit, aiming to keep hundreds of millions in-state for schools. Elections & Voting: The U.S. Postal Service proposed major changes to absentee voting by mail, including a new federal participation list—Wisconsin officials say they may not rush to respond. Workforce for People With Disabilities: Wisconsin’s budget committee approved $7 million to clear a waitlist of more than 7,000 people seeking help from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Public Safety Law: A new Wisconsin UTV seat belt requirement took effect, along with other rider rules on towing and window tinting. Health Alert: A salmonella investigation tied to “super greens” supplements has been reopened after additional illnesses in multiple states. Local Economy & Broadband: TDS Telecom began a rural broadband expansion stage in Dane County. Sports (Brewers): Kyle Harrison struck out 12 as Milwaukee beat the Giants 8-3. NFL (Wisconsin Alum): Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig agreed to a four-year, up to $100 million extension. Weather: One more dry day Wednesday before storms return Thursday.

Food Safety: The FDA and CDC reopened a salmonella investigation tied to imported moringa leaf powder supplements after new illnesses were reported, bringing the total to 119 sick across 36 states and prompting fresh recall checks. Elections & Politics: Liberal activist Kirk Bangstad fell short of Wisconsin governor ballot signature requirements, submitting 1,504 valid signatures by the June 1 deadline after an FBI/Secret Service interview tied to a social media post. Higher Education: UW Board of Regents is set to vote on a 2% tuition hike for the fourth straight year of increases, plus a 3.5% rise in segregated fees. Courts & Voting Access: A Dane County judge heard arguments in a lawsuit seeking electronic absentee ballots for disabled voters with print disabilities. Animal Welfare: Another 135 beagles are set to be released from Ridglan Farms, with dozens headed to Florida rescues and others placed with Wisconsin families. Local Business & Economy: Madison’s Overture Center is projected to add $66.9M to the local economy in the 2025-26 season. Energy & Infrastructure: Wisconsin lawmakers urged FERC to reject a utility request to pause transmission competition amid the data center buildout. Sports (Wisconsin ties): Brewers’ pitching surge continues to lift Milwaukee in national MLB power rankings.

Summerfest 2026: Milwaukee’s big music festival is rolling out major upgrades, including new “kickoff concerts” June 16-17, fresh food and drink options, an updated bag policy, and a revamped lineup of local vendors. Pride Fest: U.P. Rainbow Pride says Pride Fest 2026 is set for June 13 in Marquette, free and family-friendly, with the theme “Embrace Your Nature.” Politics: With control of the Wisconsin Legislature on the line, new reporting highlights several competitive Senate and Assembly races that could decide who runs the chamber. Elections: The filing deadline has set up a crowded governor’s race, with Democrats and Republicans jockeying for position. Business/Health: Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools is addressing more than $15K in meal debt, while a separate update notes a new leader for WellSpan’s physician teams. Sports (local): The Brewers snapped out of a slump in a 16-2 rout of the Giants, and Auburn’s NCAA run continues after beating Milwaukee 8-3 to reach the super regional.