The Oshkosh City Council has taken a significant step by passing a resolution aimed at urging the Wisconsin Joint Finance Committee to fully fund the Municipal Services Payment (MSP) Program. This initiative seeks to ensure that cities hosting state-owned properties, such as universities or hospitals, receive complete reimbursement for related service costs and property taxes. According to city officials, achieving 100% funding could save Oshkosh taxpayers approximately $1.7 million in the current year alone. The MSP Program, initiated in 1973, originally provided full reimbursement but now only covers about 37.62% of the costs. With rising property taxes affecting residents significantly, local leaders emphasize the importance of increasing this funding to alleviate financial burdens.
Historically, the MSP Program was established to compensate municipalities for the expenses incurred from housing state properties. While it once offered complete reimbursement, over time, the percentage covered by the state has dwindled considerably. In his recent budget proposal, Governor Tony Evers suggested raising the funding level to 72%, yet the City of Oshkosh argues for a return to 100%. Julie Calmes, Oshkosh's finance director, highlights how even a small increase in MSP funding can lead to tangible savings for individual taxpayers. For example, homeowners with properties valued at $250,000 could see reductions of around $72 in their annual property tax bills if the program were fully funded.
Oshkosh ranks third among Wisconsin municipalities in terms of hosting state properties, trailing only Madison and Milwaukee. These facilities are estimated to be worth nearly $905 million, yet the city receives only partial compensation for associated costs. Currently, Oshkosh incurs expenses totaling over $2.7 million annually for these properties, while the state reimburses less than half of that amount. Consequently, local taxpayers bear the brunt of the remaining costs. At a recent council meeting, members unanimously endorsed a resolution introduced by City Manager Rebecca Grill, calling for full MSP funding to address this imbalance fairly.
Council member DJ Nichols encourages community members to contact both the Wisconsin Joint Finance Committee and their local representatives to advocate for increased MSP funding. He emphasizes that advocacy is not limited to property owners; all residents have a stake in ensuring equitable treatment. By supporting the resolution, the city aims to prompt legislative action toward relieving the disproportionate tax burden placed on local citizens due to state facility operations.
In light of the ongoing financial challenges faced by Oshkosh residents, securing full MSP funding represents a crucial opportunity to ease economic pressures. As the city continues its efforts to engage stakeholders and policymakers, achieving this goal would not only benefit Oshkosh but also set a precedent for equitable fiscal practices across other municipalities hosting state properties throughout Wisconsin.
An annual event in Hampton has been transforming the lives of local students by providing them with scholarships to pursue higher education. The Run for the Stage 5K, now in its ninth year, serves as a platform for community members to contribute toward the educational aspirations of young individuals. Among the beneficiaries is Malakye Brown, a senior at Kecoughtan High School, who expressed delight upon receiving financial assistance that will alleviate his academic and financial burdens. For him, this means focusing more on studies rather than worrying about loans or work.
This initiative not only aids students like Brown but also highlights alternative pathways to career success beyond traditional four-year degrees. Carla Mahn, the Scholarship Coordinator for the event, emphasized the importance of promoting opportunities available through community colleges. According to Mahn, these institutions often retain students locally, thereby strengthening the community's fabric. Since its inception, the race has raised over $130,000, granting 106 scholarships to deserving students. In 2025 alone, ten students received $1,000 each thanks to funds generated from the race, which included an essay component where applicants outlined their plans and goals.
Engaging both participants and sponsors, the Run for the Stage 5K exemplifies how collective efforts can make significant impacts. Joy Charbonneau, co-race director, noted the growth in participation and funds raised since the first event. Community support underscores a shared commitment to nurturing future generations while boosting the local economy. Brown encourages others to seize scholarship opportunities early, stressing the value of timely action. Aspiring runners and supporters can join the cause set for May 10 at Sandy Bottom Nature Park, ensuring registration by May 9.
Through events like the Run for the Stage 5K, communities come together to create brighter futures for their youth. By fostering access to affordable education, such initiatives empower students to achieve their dreams without compromising their families' well-being. This collaborative spirit reflects a broader societal movement towards inclusivity and opportunity in education, proving that small actions can lead to substantial positive change.
In recent months, the financial markets have faced significant volatility due to various economic factors. The S&P 500 has seen a decline exceeding 7%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite dropped even more significantly at 11%. This shift in market performance has prompted experts to reassess which sectors hold the most promise and which face potential challenges. Among these experts are seasoned traders who shared their insights on where investors might find opportunities over the next hundred days.
Several key areas of focus emerged from discussions among prominent financial analysts. For instance, one trader emphasized pharmaceutical giants as an area with substantial growth potential. These companies, often overlooked due to overselling pressures, remain largely unaffected by tariff disputes, presenting a unique opportunity for investors. Conversely, industries tied closely to shipping containers may experience setbacks if prolonged trade disputes persist, leading to reduced demand and underutilized resources. Another expert highlighted semiconductors and international investments, suggesting that beaten-down valuations could soon turn into lucrative prospects as global economies recalibrate.
Beyond specific sectors, broader economic indicators also came under scrutiny. Concerns about consumer spending patterns and credit exposure were raised, indicating that U.S. households might tighten budgets amid rising costs and uncertain employment conditions. Meanwhile, certain defensive assets traditionally sought during turbulent times might not perform as expected this time around. Retail remains a wildcard sector, with its future outcomes heavily dependent on evolving macroeconomic trends. Overall, the consensus suggests that cash reserves might play a crucial stabilizing role moving forward, urging caution amidst unpredictable market dynamics.
Economic shifts present both challenges and opportunities for those willing to adapt strategically. By identifying resilient sectors such as big pharma or emerging technologies like semiconductors, investors can position themselves advantageously within volatile markets. Additionally, recognizing vulnerable industries subject to external pressures helps mitigate risks effectively. Ultimately, maintaining flexibility and staying informed equips individuals to navigate complex financial landscapes successfully, fostering long-term prosperity through thoughtful decision-making processes.