MADISON, WI (OnFocus) – Almost 100 Central Wisconsin residents will be meeting with state legislators to inform them about high-priority, public policy issues that impact economic development in Central Wisconsin.
Centergy (Central Wisconsin Economic Development Alliance) and its partners will be traveling to Madison on April 5th for the 18th Annual Central Wisconsin Days. The 2023 focus is on workforce challenges including housing, childcare, and tax reform.
“In order to keep Central Wisconsin communities like Marshfield, Stevens Point, Wisconsin Rapids and Wausau thriving, we must grow our workforce,” stated Jenny Resch, Executive Director, Office of Economic and Community Development, UW-Stevens Point and Marshfield resident. “Our three issues are key to the region’s current and future workforce.”
Housing – Wisconsin is facing a severe housing shortage An increase in single and multi-family housing stock in the Centergy Region is directly related to our ability to recruit and retain people in the prime working ages of 25-64.
Childcare – An overwhelming need for childcare has been identified in central Wisconsin. If this lack of childcare continues to persist, our communities will realize the out-migration of young families who leave to find gainful employment where care is readily available.
Tax and Revenue Reform – While Wisconsin has made improvements in lowering the tax burden, we remain one of the highest-taxed states in the nation. To remain competitive for talent attraction and business growth, Wisconsin must lower its tax burden and prioritize spending to attract and retain talent. This includes reforming long-outdated municipal shared revenue and school funding formulas.
Resch continued, “I’ve participated in Central Wisconsin Days for a number of years and always find it worthwhile. Registration is still open and we welcome new participants.”
For additional information on the event and issue papers email [email protected]
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Author: MaryAnn Lippert
MaryAnn is a Pittsville native who believes that small rural Wisconsin communities are the best places in the world to live, raise a family, work and play. She learned this by traveling for six years through 40 northern Wisconsin counties listening to residents and helping solve problems related to state government. MaryAnn enjoys working in her yard and woods, hanging out with her family and cheering for all Wisconsin sports teams. Heaven on earth is Lambeau Field, north end zone.
