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July 2006 Bay View Compass Editorial
Dear Bay View Compass Readers,
As the summer heats up so has the discussion on the Milwaukee County Budget for 2007. My office has received many calls about the future of the Milwaukee County services we all enjoy, especially our treasured Milwaukee County Parks System. Last month I wrote about the proposed referendum to the voters on a dedicated sales tax for the County Parks. This month, I will discuss the County Parks Departmental Budget Request, which includes the closing of all County Pools except for a couple of splash pads and Cool Waters.
County Executive Scott Walker gives his cabinet members budget directives as they work on their departmental budget requests. His office recently received the 2007 budget request from the Parks Director, Sue Black. The request includes the closings of over forty Milwaukee County deep well, indoor, and wading pools. Approximately three splash pads and Cool Waters would remain, none of which are located in close proximity to the South Side of Milwaukee. It also includes the abolishment of approximately 50 parks maintenance workers who are the workers responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of our parks.
The County Board will receive County Executive Scott Walker's Recommended Budget at his annual budget address to the County Board on September 28th, 2006. Once we receive his recommended budget I will hold a town hall meeting in our neighborhood to discuss and listen to your concerns and priorities for our 2007 Milwaukee County Budget.
At this time, I think closing our pools is a step in the wrong direction. Our pools may not make large amounts of revenue, but they, like many county services are essential to our quality of life here in Milwaukee County. Many residents depend on our pools for recreation, exercise for senior citizens, and critical swimming lessons for our youth.
Lastly, I ask you to help support our County Parks and Pools this summer by continuing to use them. You may also wish to contact County Executive Scott Walker's Office at 414-278-4211 to express your concerns as he develops his 2007 recommended budget.
Sincerely,
Your Milwaukee County Supervisor, Marina Dimitrijevic
MILWAUKEE COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Courthouse Room 201, 901 North 9th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233
PHONE: 414-278-4232 FAX: 414-223-1380
Page last updated 07-31-06 |