May 8, 2023 at 11:53 a.m.
Reader reflects on JFC hearing
I recently attended the Wisconsin Legislature's Joint Finance Committee hearing in Minocqua. Although I had planned to present my own comments to the committee, I listened to the other numerous comments presented by citizens from all over the Northwoods with interest and eventually with concern.
It was interesting to listen to so many individuals who represented so many different levels of government, school districts and including representatives from several UW campuses across the Northwoods present their funding needs. I noticed their requests were very similar. They were all stretched to the limit trying to meet the needs of their communities.
There were also many individual citizens who were presenting the funding needs of various organizations. A group of veterans presented an impassioned plea for funding to build an additional building for a veterans home. They explained that the current facility is no longer adequate to accommodate the numerous veterans who have applied for beds.
As a retired teacher and strong supporter of public education, I focused my comments on requesting support for Governor Evers budget proposal for increased funding for public education and special education. I expressed my support for the increased funding to provide quality and affordable childcare.
As a society we have an obligation to educate all children to provide for their economic future, and to provide well educated adults who add to the economic development of Wisconsin. Public education brings communities together in a common effort to reach those goals. Substantial financial support and widespread availability for childcare is the foundation we need to meet the goals of a well-educated society and a foundation for the economic development of local communities because it allows more citizens to participate in the workforce.
Children and families need these tax dollars to support a thriving society in the Northwoods.
Cheryl Tertinger
Minocqua
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