Here is a portion of a column from the Mayor of West Bend that ran in the Washington County Insider:
Two weeks ago the Council was presented with our annual Financial Audit prepared and presented by Baker Tilly. Recent Councils have taken action to improve the financial stability of West Bend.
In 2011, reserves stood 30% below the minimum recommended level for communities our size. At the end of 2017, we are 53% above the minimum and nearing our goal level.
From a debt standpoint, we owed over $83,000,000 in 2010 and have reduced that number by 31% down to $57,000,000. Our advisors and bonding agents recommend continued debt reduction but applaud our recent efforts.
As a community, we should be proud of the progress made the past 8 years and the stronger financial position we are currently in.
I would add to that story by pointing out that the City of West Bend has managed to lower its debt, increase its reserves, remodeled City Hall and the Police Department, met the city’s needs, and did so without raising taxes in YEARS. I think we are up to 9 years now without a tax increase in the city. They have been able to do all of this thanks to conservative leadership and taking advantage of Act 10.
This is what solid conservative fiscal leadership looks like. The Republicans over in Madison and Washington should take note.
Other cities in the state should follow do the same.