Waukesha County Executive Applauds Governor's Vision

Waukesha County Executive Dan Vrakas liked what he heard during Governor Scott Walker's budget address this afternoon.

"Overall, these are bold initiatives that will take the state in new directions that are a departure from the last few years," said Ellen Nowak, a spokesperson for Vrakas. "These are big changes, but we have to do something."

Nowak confirmed that Vrakas does not have a copy of Walker's budget and that he is waiting for the details. Still, Nowak said even without the exact numbers, knowing that state aid will be reduced at the local level makes the passage of the budget repair bill that much more important.

"Without the budget repair bill, local governments, including at the county level, can't utilize the tools the governor is making available to deal with the changes," she said. "On the whole, government is going to have to operate leaner."

Nowak said the county has been following that philosophy for a number of years, but there are always more efficient ways of doing things and delivering services. For example, municipalities are going to have to get creative by partnering with neighboring communities and with the county as well.

"Working with neighbors to consolidate services or share costs benefits the taxpayer in eliminating duplication and saving money," Nowak said. "It's a win-win for everyone."

Additionally, Nowak said Vrakas applauds the governor's commitment to making the Zoo Interchange more efficient.

"This is the busiest interchange in the state," she said. "As such, it's an important economic development piece in the region. We are very happy to see the spotlight on this very important project."