MPS Referendum

At City Forward Collective, we believe in the power of facts and transparency to drive informed decision-making. Our goal is to serve as a credible information source for our community. We're committed to being transparent about the facts, and to being clear and direct about where those facts lead us.

What’s on the Ballot

MPS has placed a $252 million, permanent operating referendum on the April 2nd ballot. Find the exact language that will be used on the ballot here.

Key details:

  • If approved by voters, this will result in a ~30% property tax increase for MPS to support its district-operated schools.

  • This is a permanently recurring referendum - once phased-in over the next four years, the district will receive $252 million per year in additional funding going forward.

  • The more than 50,000 publicly-funded Milwaukee students attending charter and private schools will not receive any of the proceeds from this referendum.

CFC’s Take

A thriving MPS is an important part of a healthy Milwaukee education ecosystem. We also know that more money alone won’t solve MPS’ academic or financial challenges. We've assessed the district's case, engaged directly with MPS officials, and listened to a broad and diverse array of both policy and more grassroots community voices. Here's where we've landed:

We are calling on MPS to provide Milwaukeeans with clear, detailed plan for how the additional $250 million per year would address the district's academic crisis and long-term financial sustainability. We believe MPS has an obligation to the city – and most importantly, to its students and families – to present a complete plan so we can have an informed and constructive dialogue about the future of our city's education system and what resources are truly needed.

Before a 30 percent property tax increase, Milwaukee’s students & families need a plan that...​

 

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Make a Plan to Vote

We understand that not everyone will share our perspective on such a significant issue. But, one thing is certain: Milwaukee’s students cannot afford for any of us to sit this critical decision out. Get informed about the facts, make a plan to vote, and make your voice heard.

Visit myvote.wi.gov to find your polling station and Early Voting (milwaukee.gov) for your early voting options.

In the News

  • CBS 58 - Milwaukee Public Schools' $252 million referendum: What's the district's plan for that money?

  • WISN - Get the Facts: What the MPS referendum means for taxpayers

  • Journal Sentinel - Get the Facts: What the MPS referendum means for taxpayers

  • Badger Institute - Former MPS superintendent critical of $252 million referendum

  • Urban Milwaukee - Is Building Surplus a Factor in MPS Referendum?