Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB839

Introduced
1/6/26  
Refer
1/6/26  
Report Pass
2/4/26  
Refer
2/4/26  
Engrossed
2/19/26  
Refer
2/25/26  

Caption

An Act to amend 60.23 (32) (b) 1. of the statutes; Relating to: allowing the Town of Three Lakes in Oneida County to create a tax incremental district in the same manner as a city or village. (FE)

Impact

The proposed legislation is significant as it empowers the Town of Three Lakes to pursue local economic development projects that might otherwise be untenable due to regulatory constraints. By enabling the creation of a TID, the town could leverage private investments, increase local employment opportunities, and stimulate growth in the area. This modification of the law has the potential to lead to enhanced infrastructure, improved public services, and increased property values as a result of development within the newly established district.

Overall

In summary, AB839 reflects an effort to support local economic development by simplifying the process for a specific town to create a tax incremental district. The bill stands as a potential model for how local governments can harness state laws to facilitate growth even in smaller municipalities. As discussions continue, it will be critical to weigh the benefits of fostering economic development against the fiscal responsibilities that governments hold to their constituents.

Summary

Assembly Bill 839, introduced by Representative Swearingen and co-sponsored by Senator Felzkowski, seeks to amend existing statutes to allow the Town of Three Lakes in Oneida County to establish a tax incremental district (TID) similar to what is permitted for cities and villages. Under the current law, towns are only able to create TIDs if they meet specific criteria regarding equalized property value and population size. This bill aims to expand the ability of this specific town to engage in economic development initiatives without having to meet the previously stringent qualifications that apply to other towns statewide.

Contention

While proponents of AB839 argue that the bill represents an important step towards empowering local governance and promoting economic opportunities in under-resourced areas, concerns may arise about the potential implications for taxation and funding. Critics of similar initiatives often highlight the risk of diverting funds away from essential public services, as TIDs allow tax revenues that might have gone to general funds to instead be used for specific development projects. Maintaining a balance between stimulating growth and ensuring the provision of adequate public services remains a point of contention.

Companion Bills

WI SB821

Crossfiled Allowing the Town of Three Lakes in Oneida County to create a tax incremental district in the same manner as a city or village. (FE)

Previously Filed As

WI SB821

Allowing the Town of Three Lakes in Oneida County to create a tax incremental district in the same manner as a city or village. (FE)

WI AB812

Allowing more than 35 percent of the area within a tax incremental district in the Village of Somers to be used for residential use. (FE)

WI SB1033

Allowing more than 35 percent of the area within a tax incremental district in the Village of Somers to be used for residential use. (FE)

WI AB137

Maximum life and allocation period for Tax Incremental District Number 9 in the village of DeForest and the total value of taxable property that may be included in tax incremental financing districts created in the village of DeForest. (FE)

WI SB133

Maximum life and allocation period for Tax Incremental District Number 9 in the village of DeForest and the total value of taxable property that may be included in tax incremental financing districts created in the village of DeForest. (FE)

WI SB1039

Broadband expansion grants for cities, villages, towns, and counties and telecommunications-related construction projects of cities, villages, and towns. (FE)

WI AB1068

Broadband expansion grants for cities, villages, towns, and counties and telecommunications-related construction projects of cities, villages, and towns. (FE)

WI SB24

Limitations on the total value of taxable property that may be included in, and the lifespan of, a tax incremental financing district created in the city of Middleton. (FE)

WI SB638

The maximum compensation for compatibility with elective offices in cities, villages, and towns. (FE)

WI AB22

Limitations on the total value of taxable property that may be included in, and the lifespan of, a tax incremental financing district created in the city of Middleton. (FE)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.