Supporting the Agriculture Industry
Because yesterday was Cow Appreciation Day, I thought this week we would briefly talk about some of the budget highlights that focus directly on the agriculture industry.
Agriculture contributes over $100 billion to Wisconsin’s economy and provides nearly half a million jobs for Wisconsin residents. One of the main things we did to support this industry was allocate $2 million for the nitrogen optimization pilot program. This program provides grants to help farmers study the optimal application of fertilizers with minimal pollution. This sustains soil fertility and crop production while reducing nitrogen loss to the atmosphere, groundwater, and surface water.
We also extended funding for the Farmer Wellness Program, which provides a variety of mental health services for farmers and their families. We recognize the challenges facing farmers in relation to mental health—a group that faces higher rates of suicide than the general population—and are dedicated to providing resources and services through this program to help reduce the negative impacts of farm-related stressors.
Republicans also increased funding for meat processor grants by $1.6 million, $600,000 for dairy processor grants, a $2 million increase for the agricultural exports program, and $193,600 for county fair aides—an increase of 40%. Although there are many other programs and grants that received funding, these examples highlight just a few investments that support our farmers and agricultural producers throughout the state.
Reducing Taxes
As I mentioned in last week’s e-update, Republicans originally approved over $3.5 billion in income tax relief, but due to the governor’s powerful veto authority, our state will now only see $174.6 million in tax cuts. Legislative Republicans cut taxes for the middle class. If you are married, filing jointly, and making $38,000+, or $27,000+ and single, the legislature had cut your income taxes by 20%. Unfortunately, the governor thinks you are super rich and vetoed that tax cut, so you will still be paying higher taxes.
To listen to what I have to say about reducing income taxes in the budget, click here.
In-District Events
The Latino-American Beach Festival will be on July 14th and 15th from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. both days at Neshotah Beach in Two Rivers.
The Pink Flamingo Classic will be July 14th through the 16th, with events happening each day at Legion Park in De Pere. On Friday, July 14th, there will be fireworks at dusk. On Saturday, the 15th, the day will start off with an 8:30 a.m. Flamingo 5K, with a 9:00 a.m. parade following shortly after. To round up the day, at 7 p.m. there will be a concert by Big Mouth and the Power Tool Hurns. On Sunday, the 16th, at 6 p.m., will be the Championship Game.
Saturday, July 15th, will be a Carnival at the Country Visions Country Store (1221 Grant St., De Pere) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The De Pere Police Department will be raising money for a new K9, so make sure you visit them at the dunk tank!
The Greenleaf Fireman’s Picnic will be Saturday, July 15th, from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 1588 Fair Road (just north of Greenleaf on STH 32-57) with fun activities such as cornhole to participate in and live music from 5-9 p.m.
Saturday, July 15th, there will be fireworks over Harpts Lake (16306 Harpts Lake Rd, Mishicot) along with food trucks, music and inflatables. This event will be from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. with fireworks taking place after dark.
The 44th Annual Two Rivers Fish Derby & Festival will be Saturday, July 22nd, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, July 23rd, from 12 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. This event will take place at Walsh Field (2201 Polk St.)  in Two Rivers.
The Two Rivers Volunteer Fire Department (6525 County Road B, Two Rivers) will be hosting a fish boil on Friday, July 28th from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The Two Rivers Snowfest Parade will be July 29th at 11:00 a.m. It will start at 7th and Columbus Streets and head north on Columbus concluding at State Highway 310.
Head on down to the library for some friendly competition! Every Tuesday from 6-7:30pm, the Lester Public Library in Two Rivers (1001 Adam St.) hosts a Family Game Night. Games and popcorn are provided.
