The City of South Milwaukee’s budget is the blueprint for financial and policy decisions implemented during each fiscal year. The budget is the single most important document we have for providing direction and vision for the future of our community.

It’s important to note the City of South Milwaukee is only one of several taxing jurisdictions that share your annual property tax payment. Although the City collects your entire tax payment, the City only retains 37.3% (put another way, 37.3 cents of every tax dollar) for City of South Milwaukee operations. Other entities, such as the South Milwaukee School District, Milwaukee Area Technical College, and Milwaukee County also retain a portion of your annual tax payment. Below, residents can view a breakdown of how the City distributes your property tax dollars among the municipal taxing jurisdictions.

The City of South Milwaukee staff and elected officials always operate in a manner that gives our taxpayers the best "bang for your buck." Your interests drive our decisions; we are here to serve those interests. We feel the City of South Milwaukee provides a good value in City services and amenities for your tax dollars, and hope you feel the same way.

Budget Challenges

Levy Limits

Since 2011, the State of Wisconsin has limited municipal levy (total amount of tax money collected) increases to the previous year’s levy plus the percentage of growth due to new construction reduced by any demolition or destruction of buildings.

Expenditure Restraint

The State of Wisconsin’s Expenditure Restraint Program provides an incentive to municipalities that limit growth in spending.

Shared Revenue

Shared Revenue is aid provided by the State of Wisconsin and is one of three main contributors to the City’s budget. Shared Revenue has dropped over the past few years and this has increased the City’s reliance on property taxes as well as user fees.

Audited Financials

Annual Financial Statements audited by Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP. Audited financials are available under Quick Links on the right side of this page. 

Where Do Your Tax Dollars Go?