MILWAUKEE — Mayor Cavalier Johnson rolled out the details of the 2024 City of Milwaukee Budget on Tuesday.

Last year, Jonhson’s budget called for cuts to multiple city services; this year, things are looking much different. Johnson called for no service cuts across the board.

What You Need To Know

  • Milwaukee police and fire services will be expanding within the 2024 budget

  • Mayor Johnson said the ability to implement a 2% sales sax in 2023 has significantly improved the city’s financial footing

  • The Milwaukee Fire Department will have about five fire stations reopening and three new paramedic units

  • The budget for demolition is being doubled and there will be a new team within public works to manage those properties

This proposal included the city’s tax levy increase of 2%. Milwaukee property owners will likely see a 2% increase in fees for things such as waste, snow removal, sewer fees and street lighting costs.

Johnson said the ability to implement a 2% sales sax in 2023 significantly improved the city’s financial footing.

“One year has made a world of difference,” Johnson said. “As we stay on a responsible course, we can look ahead to stability in our finances, greater confidence among city employees and, for our residents, growing assurance that the city services they need and expect will be there."

A big impact is being felt for first responders across Milwaukee. With the sales tax increase, no cuts will be made to police and fire departments in the city. This will help avoid the looming pension crisis; it could also bring more staffing to police and fire.

Johnson said continuous first responder recruitment will now be the norm and training classes will be full.

The Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) will see an increase in staffing and recruitment.

The Milwaukee Fire Department will have about five fire stations reopening and three new paramedic units. There will also be an increase in staffing and recruitment efforts.

Fire Chief Aaron Lipski said this increase allows for better coverage of the city.

“I have to tell you that this is the first time in my career that such an aggressive push has been made to repopulate these fire stations and get more firefighters and paramedics out on the streets,” Lipski said. “It’s a very good thing for Milwaukee.”

“The Milwaukee Police Department always strives to be responsible and efficient stewards of our taxpayers’ resources. MPD is grateful for the proposed budget bestowed upon us and will do our best to deliver the services the public expects and deserves," MPD said in a statement reacting to the budget increase. 

Tuesday, Johnson also talked about taking down buildings that are set to be razed. The budget for demolition is being doubled and there will be a new team within public works to manage these properties.

“I want city government to prevent homes from deteriorating to the point of demolition and, if demolition is inevitable, to prioritize redevelopment that strengthens neighborhoods,” Johnson said.

He said the overarching goal is to move forward on a path of fiscal stability for the city.

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