WISCONSIN (MacIver Institute) -- We have just a few weeks left of summer -- where does the time go? But just like parents and students are getting ready for school to start back up, we are getting prepared for what will be sure to be a busy fall in Wisconsin. We'll be in the state capitol working with legislators, we'll be in communities across the state educating members of the public, and we'll continue to be in your mailbox every Monday with more news and research.
Spotlight
Zoning Reform: Eau Claire Leads the Way
Eau Claire is nearing the end of a multi-year process to update and reform its zoning and land use regulations.
So what, you ask?
While it may not be the most exciting topic, a community's future can be significantly dictated by its zoning laws. That's why, Michael Lucas argues, Eau Claire's decision to reform its zoning code is an incredibly positive development––not just for its residents, but others too.
Deep Dive
For years, conservatives have sought to keep different levels of government from being too interdependent. Now, Richard Moore writes, the shoe is on the other foot, as progressive bureaucrats see distancing themselves from federal reforms as a last chance for survival. Richard puts the Wisconsin Department of Health Services under the microscope to show just how that dynamic is playing out in the state.
We've been starting to wonder, since the donate button in these emails hasn't gotten much action lately. Can you do us a favor? Just click the link below and send $5 to make sure it works. If you do that, we promise to keep working hard to hold liberals accountable and keep Wisconsin free. Seems like a fair trade.
You Should Know
WEC Argues it Must Have "ability to intervene," "correct unlawful actions"
\Wisconsin Elections Commission attorney Angela O’Brien Sharpe rejected the argument from Madison's city attorney that the Elections Commission lacks the power to require specific changes from a local election clerk.
But WEC isn't going down without a fight. The lawyer for Wisconsin’s election managers says it is “absurd” to think they cannot tell local election clerks how to fix their problems. Read more here.
Coming Soon
Gov. Evers' Legacy Already Known
Governor Tony Evers still has more than a year left on his term before he leaves office. But when that time comes, his eventual legacy has already been decided, Dan O'Donnell says. Watch his analysis below.
Quick Click
Republican State Senator Rips Milwaukee Police Chief’s Raise
Late last week, State Sen. Julian Bradley of New Berlin questioned why Milwaukee has money to pay for Chief Jeffrey Norman’s pay raise, but not for a new contract for police officers. Bradley was critical of Milwaukee’s mayor for essentially crying poor, and blaming the state legislature for a lack of support.
Wisconsin Free/reduced Lunch Income Requirements Jump 3%
The state’s Department of Public Instruction on Monday released the updated income guidelines for the new school year, and baseline incomes to qualify for the program inched further up. With the new three percent increase, a household of four with income of $41,795 per year or less will qualify for free school meals.
About MacIver Institute: The MacIver Institute is a Wisconsin-based think tank that promotes free markets, individual freedom, personal responsibility, and limited government. Through research, analysis, and community engagement, we work to advance these principles and positively impact the lives of all Wisconsinites.
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Last Update: Aug 18, 2025 12:17 pm CDT
