In the weeks following the passage of the state budget, I have been reflecting on how our work supported various sectors of Wisconsin’s economy or different segments of our population. I have met with many local leaders to tell them about all the great things this budget does to help their community and our region. While much of the budget has a statewide impact, I wanted to dedicate this column to the items that I think will especially help the 17th Senate District.

This budget adds 42 new assistant district attorneys (ADAs) to help fight crime in our communities. Dane County will receive one of these ADAs with a focus on keeping our region safe.

The budget also includes funding for a number of major projects in southern Wisconsin as part of the state’s capital budget. The biggest project in our area was funding for a new juvenile correctional facility right outside of Oregon. When completed, this facility will employ 88 full-time staff and have capacity for 40 juveniles.

Three projects were approved on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus: renovation of historic Science Hall and expansion of two dining halls. A fourth project, relocation of the Mosse Humanities Building, was given planning dollars to begin the process of moving its occupants prior to the building’s demolition.

During the negotiation process, I advocated for local projects that are good for our region. The budget allocates funding to support Taliesin Preservation’s restoration and expansion efforts. Taliesin is a fantastic tourist attraction that promotes southwestern Wisconsin and draws thousands of visitors from out of state. We also included funding to repair portions of Badger State Trail, a popular recreational trail that runs from Madison to the Illinois border. We provided funding to the Village of Oregon to upgrade its wastewater treatment facility to handle the increased demand from Oakhill Correctional Institution.

Local governments will also see a boost from our action. Increased General Transportation Aids (GTAs), along with renewed funding for the Agricultural Roads Improvement Program (ARIP) and the Local Roads Improvement Program (LRIP), will lead to better roads and bridges across our communities. We increased bonding authority to expand access to the Environmental Improvement Fund, a revolving loan program that helps municipalities upgrade or expand access to clean water. Communities such as Hollandale, New Glarus, and Oregon have already declared their intent to use this fund in the coming year.

Finally, this budget was great for our agriculture industry. We extended and boosted a number of programs that are utilized by farmers and producers to expand their business, implement innovative conservation practices, and more.

The state budget impacts every one of us in some way, from roads, to schools, to healthcare, to tax rates. These specific investments address unique local needs and will make a meaningful difference in our region. I am proud to represent our region and deliver results!

If you need assistance with any state-related matters, please call my team at the State Capitol – 608-266-0703 – or email me – Sen.Marklein@legis.wisconsin.gov. My team is ready and willing to help navigate your state government, clear obstacles, and receive your input.