City of Musekgo Public Safety Referendum

MUSKEGO, Wis. (August 27, 2026):  The City of Muskego Common Council has approved a Public Safety Referendum question asking electors to vote on an approximately $5.9 million annual increase in the City’s property tax levy to establish a municipal Fire/EMS Department and add staffing to the Police and Public Works Departments. The Public Safety Referendum question will appear on the 2026 General Election ballot on November 3.

The referendum follows the City’s review of current and future public safety needs, including increasing service demands, staffing needs, and the sustainable, long-term delivery of Fire and EMS services. If approved, the additional funding would support the transition to a combination (full-time and paid-on-call) City of Muskego Fire/EMS Department, including the hiring of one full-time Fire Chief, 15 full-time personnel, and 36 part-time, paid-on-call staff to provide 24/7/365 coverage. The referendum also includes adding five police officers and one dispatcher to the Police Department, as well as four additional Public Works employees and one administrative support position.

Today, the City launched www.MuskegoPublicSafety.com to provide residents with factual information about the referendum, including the ballot question, proposed staffing, estimated property tax impact, frequently asked questions, background information, and supporting documents.

Residents are also invited to attend upcoming Public Information Sessions:

• Tuesday, September 15: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4-6 p.m., Muskego City Hall, W182 S8200 Racine Avenue

• Wednesday, October 14: 4-6 p.m., Muskego City Hall, W182 S8200 Racine Avenue

• Saturday, October 31: 10 a.m. to noon, Muskego Public Library, S73W16663 W. Janesville Road

These open house style sessions will provide residents an opportunity to learn more, review information about the proposal, and ask questions of City representatives. City representatives are also available to attend meetings of local civic or community groups to provide information in advance of the election.

The Public Safety Referendum will appear on the Tuesday, November 3, 2026, General Election ballot. For referendum information and updates, visit MuskegoPublicSafety.com.

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Media Inquiries:
Jess Wildes, Partner
Innovative Public Advisors
262-339-5658jess@public-advisors.com