Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB540

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/18/23
• Refer: 10/18/23
• Refer: 2/2/24
• Report Pass: 2/14/24
• Refer: 2/14/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

University of Wisconsin System branch campus redevelopment grants, including a grant to Richland County, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The implementation of AB540 is expected to stimulate local economic development by encouraging the reuse and revitalization of underutilized properties on branch campuses. By providing funding for redevelopment, local governments may attract new businesses and initiatives that can reinvigorate the area and create jobs. This legislative move is seen as a proactive step in managing the future of educational facilities that have been vacated or repurposed due to changes in the university system. Such financial support aims to mitigate the economic impact that the closure of educational sites might have on local communities.

Summary

Assembly Bill 540 aims to establish a framework for providing redevelopment grants specifically targeting former branch campuses of the University of Wisconsin System. This bill mandates the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) to allocate grants up to $2,000,000 to political subdivisions, which include cities, towns, and counties, for redevelopment projects involving properties that are no longer utilized for academic purposes. Notably, the bill prioritizes granting $2,000,000 to Richland County before extending financial assistance to other subdivisions, reflecting a focus on revitalizing certain regions within the state.

Contention

While the bill generally garners support for its economic potential, it may also bring forth discussions regarding the allocation of state funds and the priorities in addressing educational infrastructure. Opponents might argue about the effectiveness of focusing substantial funds on specific localities, potentially at the expense of other equally deserving regions that also face challenges in economic development. Additionally, the necessity and efficiency of using state funds for local redevelopment could be scrutinized, especially in the context of other pressing state funding needs.