City of Muskego, Committee of the Whole - 7/28/26

The City of Muskego Committee of the Whole meeting on July 28, 2026, focused extensively on public safety funding needs, including a proposed referendum to fund additional fire, police, and public works personnel. The discussion centered on a $5.9 million annual funding request to hire 16 fire department employees, five police officers, and two public works employees, with an emphasis on addressing current staffing shortages and maintaining service levels. The timeline for the referendum was outlined, with a filing deadline in late August and the election scheduled for November 3, 2026. Committee members debated the pace of the process, the adequacy of staffing numbers, and the need for a public safety committee to further refine plans. The meeting also covered capital improvement projects, including the purchase of electronic poll books (Badger Books) to modernize election infrastructure and a proposed investment in new financial management software to replace a 20-year-old system. Additionally, the police department discussed the use of Flock license plate reader cameras and their benefits and privacy considerations. The meeting concluded with a motion to move forward with the referendum question and plans for community outreach and education, including hiring a communications consultant to assist with public information efforts.