Madison Reporter

Brandon Maly, chairman of the Dane County Republicans, expressed concerns over a proposed 7.4% tax increase in Madison, stating it would take an additional $22 million from taxpayers annually and burden families and homeowners with higher costs. Maly shared his statement with Madison Reporter on October 24.

"This 7.4% tax hike means an extra $22 million taken from taxpayers every single year," said Maly. "With inflation raging on and lowering standards of living for Madison residents, now is not the time to increase the financial burden on lower and middle-class families. The average Madison homeowner would see their taxes rise by $230 annually—money that could support local businesses and families instead. It's time to demand fiscal responsibility from our leaders and push for meaningful budget cuts instead of relying on empty promises."

According to The Cap Times, Madison residents will vote in November on a $22 million property tax increase intended to fund city services. This follows a City Council decision that passed with a 17-2 vote. If approved, the measure would raise taxes on the average home by approximately $230 annually. The election is notable for including referendums from both the city and the Madison school district, which seeks over $600 million in funding. This could potentially increase homeowners' taxes by over $1,000 in the coming years. Should voters reject the tax hike, the city may need to cut $6 million in services next year, with projected deficits growing to $63 million by 2030.

In 2023, Isthmus reported that Wisconsin experienced its second consecutive year of 14% increases in home values, then estimated at $613.8 billion according to the Department of Revenue. With mortgage rates near 7%, first-time buyers faced significant challenges, often relying on savings or gifts due to lack of equity. The median-priced home rose 8.6% from $280,000 to over $304,000, marking a troubling milestone. Consequently, the Wisconsin Realtors Association's affordability index dropped 13.8%, indicating that families could afford only 125% of the median-priced home, down from 145% in 2022.

The Cap Times also reported that Madison leaders were exploring a property tax referendum to address a projected $27 million deficit in the 2025 budget, which now goes to voters in November. Options included layoffs, service cuts, or increased revenues through a proposed tax increase amid budget discussions. Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway emphasized considering all options and said that ignoring the referendum would be irresponsible; however, residents were concerned about financial burdens. If approved, this increase would cost the average household an additional $284 annually.

Maly was first elected as Chair of the Republican Party of Dane County in 2023 and focuses on boosting Republican voter turnout and growing party membership while communicating positions on issues important to Dane County voters.