Wisconsin Senate Bill SB855

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/26/23
• Refer: 12/26/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Local grant writing and compliance assistance and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

If enacted, SB855 will significantly enhance the capacity of small local governments to procure expertise, thereby supporting their ability to apply for and manage larger-scale funding opportunities. This initiative recognizes the challenges faced by smaller municipalities in navigating the complex grant application processes and compliance requirements, which can often lead to missed funding opportunities. Additionally, the program will streamline the application process, making it more accessible for communities that may lack resources or staff dedicated to grant management.

Summary

Senate Bill 855 aims to establish a local grant writing and compliance assistance program specifically designed for smaller political subdivisions within Wisconsin. The bill mandates the Department of Revenue to allocate up to $5,000 in grant funding for each qualifying municipality with a population under 10,000 from 2024 through 2027. These grants are intended to assist these localities in securing services related to grant writing and ensuring compliance for projects associated with public works, transportation infrastructure, and public safety.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly in terms of funding priorities and the criteria for grant distribution. Critics might argue that while the intention is noble, the allocation of funds should consider equity among various municipalities and whether the focus on small communities could potentially divert resources from larger areas that may also require support. Additionally, there could be concerns regarding the actual effectiveness of the program in improving grant success rates for smaller municipalities, given that the complexities of grant applications often extend beyond just having writing assistance.