AGP Executive Report

Housing Market: Wisconsin home sales and prices keep climbing, with July sales up 8.1% and the median price rising 6.8% to $360,000 as inventory stays tight. UW Admissions: UW-Madison’s acceptance rate hit a record low in 2025 (41%), and families say the new “top 5%” automatic admission law hasn’t eased the sense that getting in is harder. Politics & Data Centers: WEDC’s John Miller says Wisconsin can’t “get left behind” on data centers, even as the governor’s race turns the projects into a flashpoint; meanwhile, Tom Tiffany is pushing a “Protecting Wisconsin Farmland” tour and says he’d end data-center tax subsidies. Privacy & Surveillance: Flock camera use keeps expanding, with new scrutiny over whether warrantless searches should be required. Health Care Breakthrough: Children’s Wisconsin says it’s the first in the nation to deliver FDA-approved gene therapy for genetic hearing loss outside a clinical trial. Milwaukee Crime & Safety: Police are investigating a life-threatening stabbing on the northwest side and a fatal motorcycle crash in Waukesha. Weather: Thursday stays pleasant, with showers and thunderstorms returning Friday. Sports: UW women upset No. 9 BYU 1-0; Marquette beat Truman State 4-1; the Brewers dropped a 7-5 game to Seattle after a rough start.

Milwaukee Public Schools Under Federal Review: The U.S. Department of Education is investigating whether Milwaukee Public Schools considers race in student discipline decisions, reviving long-running concerns about disparities. Governor Race Focus—Data Centers: Data centers are front and center in the Wisconsin governor race, with Democrat David Crowley pushing for accountability and clean-energy requirements while Republican Tom Tiffany targets subsidies and warns about electricity-rate impacts. Housing Policy: A new Wisconsin law will extend how long municipalities can keep tax increment districts active, aiming to boost affordable housing funding. Public Safety—Impaired Driving: The Wisconsin State Patrol’s “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign kicks off for Labor Day, warning that alcohol and drugs are tied to about a third of traffic deaths. Health—Measles Rising: Southwest Wisconsin’s measles outbreak continues to grow, with confirmed and probable cases climbing across multiple counties. Local Weather/Storm Cleanup: Southeast Wisconsin communities are assessing damage after severe storms, including an EF0 tornado confirmed in Hubertus. Sports—Brewers’ Record Night: The Brewers routed the Mariners 22-0 in a historic shutout, while the Timber Rattlers edged Lake County 5-3. Business/Community: We Energies agreed to extend power purchases from Point Beach through the early 2050s, and Bank of America plans another new south-side Milwaukee branch.

Film & Tourism: Gov. Evers and Film Wisconsin announced the first round of Wisconsin film tax credit awards, with six productions receiving more than $1 million total. Passenger Rail: Evers, Sen. Tammy Baldwin and WisDOT celebrated over $140 million in federal funding to modernize up to 41 Amtrak Charger locomotives serving Wisconsin routes. Crypto Regulation: Wisconsin’s banking lobby and the state Department of Financial Institutions urged lawmakers not to deregulate crypto staking-as-a-service, warning it should stay under securities protections. Schools & Equity: Milwaukee Public Schools is under federal investigation over allegations about how race is considered in discipline decisions. Public Safety & Weather: More than 25,000 utility customers were still without power after Tuesday’s storms hit southeast Wisconsin. Health: Measles cases rose again, with Grant County confirming two more cases tied to the southwest outbreak. Milwaukee Sports: The Brewers crushed the Mariners 22-0 in a record-matching shutout, while the Packers’ girls flag football program keeps expanding through new grants. Local Notes: Oak Creek approved a Buc-ee’s deal, including renaming part of Elm Road to “Buc-ee’s Boulevard.”

Traffic & Safety: Berwyn police closed Ogden Avenue between Wenonah and Wisconsin Ave after a major crash Tuesday night, urging drivers to avoid the area while crews responded. Weather: A slow-moving cold front is bringing showers and storm chances, with the best severe risk window Tuesday evening (4–10 p.m.) for strong winds and large hail. Milwaukee Public Schools: The U.S. Department of Education is investigating MPS discipline practices after new guidance warns schools not to use race in student discipline. Public Health & Policy: Wisconsin lawmakers advanced multiple bills, including AB598 to allow patient representatives to help move incapacitated patients to nursing facilities without guardianship petitions, and AB604 to require DHS to seek a Medicaid waiver for prerelease health care for incarcerated people. Local Life: The Humane Society of Southern Wisconsin is helping out-of-state dogs, including six Louisiana dogs transferred to its Janesville shelter. Sports & Culture: A Milwaukee artist, Ric Stultz, designed a Brewers hat giveaway tied to the team’s early-80s legacy.

Severe Storm Watch: Tuesday could bring strong to severe thunderstorms across southern Wisconsin, with the best chance mid-afternoon into early evening; threats include damaging winds, hail, and heavy downpours. Milwaukee Area Crime: Jefferson County deputies arrested a 26-year-old after a burglary suspect’s stolen item was spotted for sale online and recovered in a controlled meeting. Local Business & Growth: Oak Creek will consider a Buc-ee’s partnership deal Tuesday, including a $350,000 community contribution, annual marketing support, and a possible Elm Road rename pending state approval. Native Culture: Pioneer Village Museum in the Northwoods will unveil an Ojibwe Village exhibit Friday, built with tribal input and designed for education and tourism. State Policy Watch: Wisconsin lawmakers advanced multiple bills, including AB759 on occupational licenses for some DACA recipients and AB963 on social media rules for minors. Higher Ed: UW System unveiled a “4-Year Tuition Pledge” seeking $190 million for a two-year tuition freeze. Community & Culture: Milwaukee’s Black Culture Fest returns Aug. 21 at American Family Field, spotlighting Black artists and businesses.

Racine Public Safety: An 18-year-old accused of stabbing his father in Racine was arrested in Nebraska and is awaiting extradition; the extradition hearing is set for Sept. 15, with charges including attempted first-degree intentional homicide. Milwaukee Violence: Police investigated two separate shootings Monday that left three people dead; a 44-year-old died after a south-side shooting tied to an alleged road rage incident, and another shooting near 31st and Cameron left two dead, with a suspect arrested. State Budget/Facilities: UW-Madison’s veterinary diagnostic lab in Barron will get about $19.6 million for renovations and expansion after the State Building Commission approved added funding. Tech & Kids Policy: The Assembly advanced AB962, requiring app stores to verify minors’ ages and obtain verifiable parental consent before downloads or purchases. FoodShare Rules: AB180 would require DHS to seek a federal waiver to bar FoodShare purchases of candy and soft drinks. Weather: Tuesday storms are expected to move into southeast Wisconsin, with low severe risk but possible strong wind gusts. Local Culture: The Brewers unveiled a new “Seventh Inning Stretch” mural in Fitchburg celebrating ballpark traditions.

State Politics & Elections: Milwaukee’s Democratic primary ballot counting delay is under review after “human error” reportedly slowed counting of about 28,000 absentee ballots, with election officials promising procedure updates. Public Safety: A crash shut down southbound I-41 in Slinger for more than two hours, and Milwaukee-area police also investigated reports of shots fired that briefly closed parts of I-94. Legislative Watch (PFAS, Kids, Tech): Wisconsin lawmakers advanced PFAS programs (AB131) and expanded funding for Internet crimes against children (AB957), while also moving bills aimed at minors’ online activity and app store age/parental consent rules (AB963, AB962). Health & Education: Milwaukee Public Schools held a major literacy summit after rolling out its Act 20-aligned reading curriculum earlier this year, and UW health experts warned that new federal childhood vaccine recommendations could confuse parents heading into school. Local Business & Sports: Asahi Beer USA is investing $35M in Waunakee to expand bottled production, and the Brewers’ recent minor-league debuts include strong starts from 2026 draft picks Sawyer Strosnider and Kyle Jones.

Brewers vs. Dodgers: Logan Henderson went seven strong and Jake Bauers went 4-for-4 as Milwaukee beat Los Angeles 6-2 to win the series and take the season tiebreaker, with Tarik Skubal getting tagged by homers from Max Muncy and Andy Pages. State Politics: Wisconsin lawmakers advanced a slate of bills, including AB997 funding for the Department of Financial Institutions tied to “Trump accounts,” and AB461 creating a tax deduction for qualified overtime pay. FoodShare & Consumer Rules: AB180 would require DHS to seek a federal waiver to restrict FoodShare purchases of candy and soft drinks, while AB968 sets licensing and consumer safeguards for virtual currency kiosks. Schools & Health Records: AB1004 would bar schools from hiding or erasing records tied to alleged immoral conduct, and SB799 would change when parents can access minors’ health and court treatment records. Entertainment: John Arthur Hill debuts his Chicago show “Silk and Loose!” at The Den Theatre on Aug. 16. State Fair Update: The 2026 Wisconsin State Fair ended early after flooding shut down the final day.

Health Policy: Wisconsin doctors are warning that Medicaid work requirements could create major administrative and ethical burdens, especially around deciding who qualifies as “medically frail.” Public Safety & Health: Southwest Wisconsin measles cases have climbed to 15 confirmed and 6 probable, with officials urging updated vaccinations and close symptom monitoring. State Government: The Wisconsin Senate advanced AB911 to fund a statewide battery collection and recycling program, while lawmakers also moved bills tied to tax changes, social media rules for minors, and DOJ funding for internet crimes against children. Transportation: WisDOT says northbound I-43/Highway 23 ramps will close for reconstruction starting Aug. 20, with detours via Highway 42 and other routing changes. Milwaukee Crime: Police say a suspect is in custody after a man was beaten outside Beto’s Pizza on the south side, leaving him with serious injuries. Sports (Milwaukee): The Brewers host the Dodgers again Sunday after a 4-1 win, with Jacob Misiorowski starring in the latest matchup.

Brewers Move: Milwaukee added infield depth by acquiring 26-year-old Jonathan Ornelas from the Athletics for cash, putting him straight into the lineup vs. the Dodgers while Brice Turang nurses a left knee injury and Jihwan Bae was designated for assignment. Public Safety: Wisconsin DNR says the state leads the nation in deadly ATV/UTV crashes in 2026, with lack of helmets and seatbelts cited as major factors. Crime Lab Politics: Eric Toney, running for Wisconsin attorney general, campaigned in Eau Claire promising faster turnaround at state crime labs. Road Disruption: A semi overturned on I-94 westbound near Menomonie, shutting down lanes at Hwy. 25 and backing traffic up for miles. Milwaukee Investigation: Bay View Park is under a death investigation after a man was recovered from the water near the Oak Leaf Trail. Art Recovery: A Picasso sketch stolen from a Milwaukee gallery in 2018 was found again in a vacant apartment and recognized by the original dealer. Local Culture: Curd Fest drew cheese-curd fans to Breese Stevens Field, with creative curd dishes and a Bloody Mary bar.

State Supreme Court: Justice Chris Taylor was sworn in Friday, starting a 10-year term on the Wisconsin Supreme Court and joining a 5-2 Democratic majority. Public Safety: Wisconsin DNR says the state leads the nation in fatal ATV/UTV crashes, with 29 deaths this year; officials point to lack of helmets and seatbelts as key factors. Health: Wisconsin DHS confirmed 15 measles cases (plus 6 probable) concentrated in Iowa County and neighboring Lafayette County, as officials urge residents to check vaccination status. Milwaukee Elections: The Milwaukee Election Commission is reviewing a human error that delayed about 28,000 absentee ballots after workers uploaded the wrong files; procedure updates are planned. Local Development: Waukesha County expects to approve an offer to buy the former UWM at Waukesha campus in September, with demolition targeted for 2027. Sports: The Brewers host the Dodgers Saturday after a major roster hit—reliever Abner Uribe went on the injured list. Weather: Milwaukee is mostly cloudy and muggy with a slight chance of showers or storms Saturday.

ATV/UTV Safety: Wisconsin DNR says the state leads the nation in fatal ATV/UTV crashes, with 29 deaths in 2026 so far, and most victims weren’t wearing helmets or seatbelts. Clean Water Enforcement: Wisconsin Cheese Group was sentenced to one year probation and fined $237,500 after Clean Water Act violations tied to untreated wastewater discharges into a municipal sewer. Milwaukee Police Tech Scrutiny: Milwaukee’s use of car tracking cameras is back in focus after reports of alleged misuse and new oversight steps by the company behind the system. Local Crime & Courts: A Milwaukee County Clerk of Circuit Courts senior staffer was suspended after an arrest tied to fentanyl and cocaine found at a home. Measles Watch: Wisconsin health officials are dealing with a growing measles outbreak, with new cases reported in southwest counties. Campaign Trail: Democrats are pushing statewide ahead of November, including messaging aimed at rural and working-class voters. Community & Sports: Cop on a Rooftop fundraisers for Special Olympics Wisconsin returned statewide, while the Brewers continue their series at Dodgers Stadium.

Measles Alert: Wisconsin health officials say the southwest outbreak has surged to 15 confirmed cases in Iowa and Lafayette counties, with 6 more probable, and most patients weren’t vaccinated—DHS warns more cases may surface. Milwaukee Politics & Voting Scrutiny: Milwaukee’s election results were delayed after staff “erroneously” loaded the wrong data onto USB drives, fueling fresh questions about the Aug. 11 Democratic governor primary. Governor Race Fallout: The general-election ad war is already underway, with Tom Tiffany launching a statewide “failed executive” message against David Crowley and Democrats countering with “Pandering politician” attacks. Health Care: Gov. Tony Evers criticized Trump and Republicans after ACA enrollment in Wisconsin fell 16% in 2026, citing the expiration of enhanced federal premium tax credits. State Tourism: The Wisconsin State Capitol Square was named the newest “Wonder of Wisconsin,” joining the state’s top visitor draws. Local Life: A Japanese coffee chain, Streamer Coffee, is opening its first U.S. location in downtown Milwaukee, and weather watchers say rain chances linger through the weekend. Sports: The Brewers snapped a losing streak with a 5-4 ninth-inning rally over the Dodgers.

Topgolf in Monona: Wisconsin’s first Topgolf opened with a ribbon cutting, bringing 72 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full bar-and-restaurant, and big-screen entertainment to the Madison area. Measles Update: Wisconsin DHS says its “intensive effort” continues after cases in southwestern Wisconsin jumped to 15 confirmed and 6 probable, with health officials warning more exposures are likely—while pushing back on a new federal push to change the MMR schedule. State Capitol Spotlight: The Wisconsin State Capitol Square was named the state’s 12th “Wonder of Wisconsin,” highlighting the building’s marble and granite and its role as a hub for events. Sports Betting & Taxes: Lawmakers advanced multiple bills, including AB601 sports wagering rules tied to servers on Indian lands and PFAS and tax measures moving through the Legislature. Milwaukee County Public Safety: County jail booking reports show 17 violent-category bookings and 4 sexual-category bookings for the week ending Aug. 9. Local Infrastructure & Weather: The southern portion of Milwaukee’s 16th Street Bridge is back open after repairs, and showers are tapering off with patchy fog overnight.

Wisconsin Politics: Milwaukee County executive David Crowley stunned Democratic primary voters by narrowly beating socialist Francesca Hong for governor, setting up a November matchup with GOP Rep. Tom Tiffany and reigniting debate over why polls missed the result. Elections & Accountability: Milwaukee’s election results were delayed after staff downloaded the wrong files from tabulators, though officials say no votes changed; the episode is still fueling scrutiny of election procedures. Statehouse Bills: Rep. Tony Kurtz backed AB961, which would require warning labels on explicit sexual content sold or published for profit; Rep. Rob Kreibich and others also advanced tax-related measures aligning state law with federal changes. Housing & Economy: Metro Milwaukee home sales rose 12.5% in July, while Wausau’s draft climate plan says rooftop solar could exceed the city’s 2025 electricity use. Community & Sports: The Brewers signed a Korean high school player, and the Bucks/Herd delivered tornado relief supplies in Menasha.

Wisconsin Politics: Wisconsin Democrats are moving fast to unify after David Crowley narrowly beat Francesca Hong in the Democratic governor primary, with both candidates urging the party to rally for the November matchup against GOP Rep. Tom Tiffany. Polling Fallout: Multiple reports say pre-election polling missed the mark badly, with undecided voters and late momentum changes playing a huge role in the outcome. Public Health: Wisconsin health officials confirmed two new measles cases in Iowa and Lafayette counties, noting vaccination rates in both areas are below what’s needed to prevent spread. Milwaukee Updates: Milwaukee police are investigating a shooting that injured a 15-year-old and are also asking for help locating a critically missing 10-year-old girl. State & Local Services: UW-Platteville was selected to host regional rounds of the 2027 Wisconsin Civics Games, and the state building commission approved about $374 million in campus safety projects, including fire sprinkler upgrades at UW-La Crosse.