Doyle announces $80 million plan to invest in Milwaukee
MILWAUKEE (AP) – Saying Wisconsin's success depends on a thriving Milwaukee, Gov. Jim Doyle unveiled a multimillion dollar plan Wednesday to improve the city's schools, law enforcement and infrastructure.
The plan will be included in the budget proposal Doyle submits to the state legislature on Tuesday. It would provide more than $15 million for Milwaukee Public Schools, $35.5 million for programs designed to reduce crime and $21 million in property-tax relief.
Doyle described Milwaukee as the center of Wisconsin's culture and commerce.
"Whether you live in Milwaukee or Marinette, the future of our state's largest metropolitan area affects you," the Democrat said Wednesday at Elm Creative Arts Elementary School. "For Wisconsin to thrive, we need a strong and growing Milwaukee. I ask you to join me in making an investment in Milwaukee for the sake of all Wisconsin."
The legislature would have to approve Doyle's plan, which calls for more police, help for first-time home buyers, improved public transportation and better schools.
The whole proposal could cost about $80 million, Doyle's spokesman Matt Canter said. Doyle did not explain how he would fund the plan, saying that information will be included in his budget proposal.
Restaurant Association announces support for smoking ban
MADISON (AP) A group that represents about 5,000 restaurants across the state has come out in support of a proposed ban on smoking in bars, restaurants and all workplaces.
The Wisconsin Restaurant Association voted at its Jan. 30 meeting to support the ban, without any exemptions for taverns or bar areas in restaurants, the group said in a release Wednesday.
The Tavern League, which lobbies on behalf of the state's 13,000 bar owners, wants an exemption for taverns. Gov. Jim Doyle, who announced the plan last month, said Tuesday he was willing to compromise on the proposal, which also includes a $1.25 per pack cigarette tax increase.
The Restaurant Association said the patchwork of local ordinances limiting smoking puts restaurants at a disadvantage because customers who want to smoke can easily go to another place nearby where it is allowed.
A statewide ban would eliminate that problem, the group's president Ed Lump said.
The group said it will oppose any exemption for bars because that would put restaurants at a disadvantage to bars that also serve food.