Racine County, WI

THE GROWING DIVIDE: A TALE OF TWO COUNTIES

While Racine County has maintained a balanced budget for decades, our fiscal discipline unfortunately has not been rewarded by state or federal allocation methodologies as we lag behind neighbors like Kenosha County in essential service investments. Moving forward, we must close this gap, ensuring residents receive the necessary support and quality of life is not diminished.

2024 BUDGET EXPENDITURE: RACINE VS. KENOSHA COUNTY

Racine County's expenditure on the Sheriff's Office at $23.4M and on Human Services at $55.2M significantly trails behind Kenosha County, which allocates $46.2M for public safety and $68.2M for human services. This highlights a substantial investment gap between our two counties.

2024 TAX LEVY + COUNTY SALES TAX: RACINE VS. KENOSHA COUNTY

Our tax levy further shows significant underinvestment in Racine County essential services. We allocate less than half as much to our Sheriff’s Office and less than a fifth to our Human Services Department compared to Kenosha County.

RACINE COUNTY BUDGET CHALLENGES

FROM CRISIS TO CARE: TACKLING MENTAL HEALTH AND OPIOIDS

As the sole mandated crisis provider in Racine County, our Human Services Department is making significant strides in developing the Racine County Mental Health Facility. This $32.3 million investment is a major enhancement to our local healthcare infrastructure, providing comprehensive support for residents dealing with mental health crises and substance abuse issues. As a central hub, the facility will fill existing service gaps, offering everything from immediate crisis intervention to sustainable, long-term recovery options.

We have engaged highly qualified design and construction firms to realize this vision. Construction is scheduled to begin between late 2024 and early 2025, with the facility fully operational by Fall 2026.

"We searched for treatment programs for my son, but there were very few in Racine or close. Our dream is to have a sober community within a community, a place where they can gather together."

- NINNA FRANK

Mother who lost her son Ryane to addiction

SUPPORTING LAW ENFORCEMENT

A key feature of the facility is its close cooperation with local law enforcement. This collaboration is will provide more appropriate and compassionate responses to individuals experiencing mental health crises, which traditionally might have led to unnecessary incarceration. By offering law enforcement a direct line to expert mental health intervention, the facility reduces the strain on public safety resources and improves outcomes for individuals in crisis.

RESPONDING TO FENTANYL CRISIS

The strategic placement of the Racine County Mental Health Facility near the Human Services Department will help provide direct access to specialized treatment and interventions to combat the surge in fentanyl-related overdoses and fatalities. Being so close allows for better teamwork between healthcare providers and social services, making it easier to help people affected by this serious issue.

THE HUMAN TOLL IN  RACINE COUNTY

These figures represent the real impact of the mental health, opioid, and fentanyl crisis on Racine County residents

REPLACING END-OF-LIFE EMERGENCY RADIO SYSTEM

Our emergency radio system is beyond end of life and facing catastrophic failure. No replacement parts exist for many components of radio infrastructure. Racine County must upgrade nine existing sites to create a reliable system, fix areas with poor coverage, and ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of our fire, EMS, law enforcement, and emergency first responders.

TACKLING RISING COSTS AND COMMUNITY SAFETY

The Sheriff's Office faces a perfect storm of cost increases and growing community challenges. Over the past year, we experienced a 15% rise in fuel costs and a 25% increase in essential software expenses,including those for records management and body-worn camera systems. Additionally, our community has faced a 43% increase in sexual assault cases and a 64% rise in disorderly conduct incidents. These trends show the urgent need for innovative solutions to support and sustain community safety.

REMOVING ILLEGAL STREET DRUGS

202413Last year, Racine County introduced a Violence Interruption model to assist families affected by gun violence. This year, we've enhanced the model through increased inter-agency cooperation, comprehensive shoot reviews, and targeted notifications and support for individuals most at risk of engaging in gun violence. This strategic balance of support and deterrence will greatly enhance the safety of our communities.

INVESTING IN INFRASTRUCTURE, ENHANCING QUALITY OF LIFE

According to the Wisconsin Counties Association, Racine County ranks last statewide in important spending areas like highways. However, infrastructure such as roads and parks are vital for improving quality of life for our communities and residents. Despite our ranking, Racine County remains dedicated to maintaining infrastructure and preserving natural environments to maintain quality of life in Racine County.