AGP Executive Report

Lake Geneva Storm Tragedy: A sudden severe storm on Geneva Lake Friday capsized a recreational boat; three children died and seven people were rescued after an intensive search, with officials urging boaters to seek shelter fast as conditions can change in minutes. Waukesha Trail Death: A man was found dead on the Glacial Drumlin State Trail near Waukesha; police say there’s no threat to the community while the medical examiner works to determine cause and manner. Severe Weather Aftermath: Thousands of We Energies customers lost power after storms, with outages still reported late July 3; crews worked to restore service. Milwaukee Crash: A Friday night crash near Appleton and Congress left one person dead and another in custody. Public Safety for the Holiday: The DNR is pushing riders to stay sober on ATV/UTVs this Fourth of July weekend, citing alcohol and speed as major factors in past crashes. Health & Consumer Watch: DATCP warned military families about scams during July, and residents near a Mount Pleasant data center filed a lawsuit over alleged noise. Community & Culture: Wisconsin’s America 250 spotlight includes Houdini’s Wisconsin roots, and local history tours are drawing renewed interest.

Independence & WalletHub Rankings: Wisconsin placed 8th in WalletHub’s “most independent” states report, with the state also ranking high on median credit scores as July 4 arrives. Fourth of July Safety—Geneva Lake Storm Tragedy: A sudden severe storm on Geneva Lake led to a boat capsizing in Walworth County; three people died and seven were rescued, with the incident under joint investigation by Lake Geneva police and the DNR. Local Emergency Response: The same storm system knocked out power and caused widespread damage across Walworth County, prompting a state of emergency in Lake Geneva and warnings to stay away from downed lines. Navy in Madison: An inflatable USS Wisconsin submarine replica drew families at Madison’s Duck Pond, part of a push to build public connection ahead of the submarine’s 2028 completion. Sports—Badgers to the NBA: Nick Boyd signed with the Golden State Warriors as an undrafted free agent, aiming to prove his fit in the NBA. Milwaukee Culture: Carroll University students helped set up Milwaukee’s lakefront drone show, turning the holiday spectacle into a hands-on learning moment. Community Remembrance: Phelps Historical Museum marked America’s 250th by hosting a Vietnam veterans exhibit honoring all 1,163 Wisconsin fallen.

Disaster Relief: President Trump approved a major disaster declaration for Wisconsin after April storms, tornadoes and flooding, unlocking FEMA help for residents and local governments across multiple counties. Energy & Growth: The state Public Service Commission projects Wisconsin peak power demand will surge 40% by 2032 as data centers expand, with major load tied to hyperscale projects. Local Economy & Planning: Milwaukee’s Plan Commission punted on a Midtown Walmart redevelopment after hours of public pushback over a proposed “computational research facility” critics say is a data center. Public Safety: DSPS sent $38.18M to Wisconsin fire departments through the 2% Fire Dues Program, boosting funding for equipment, training and prevention. Holiday Watch: DNR and law enforcement are stepping up “Operation Dry Water” to crack down on impaired boating over the July 4 weekend. Milwaukee Immigration Tensions: A Fourth of July backdrop includes the ongoing ICE surge and a looming sentencing for a former Milwaukee judge tied to obstructing federal immigration arrests. Sports & Culture: Milwaukee Bucks released their California Classic roster; and Summerfest picks spotlight local acts as the festival heads into its final weekend.

FEMA Disaster Relief: President Trump approved major federal disaster assistance for Wisconsin after April storms, tornadoes and flooding, with FEMA Individual Assistance now available for residents in multiple counties including Rock, Sauk, Juneau and Milwaukee; applications are open at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone. Local Recovery Updates: Rock County and other areas are moving to help residents file for aid as the state’s FEMA declaration rolls out. Milwaukee Immigration Crackdown: A wave of ICE arrests in Milwaukee is tied to a nationwide surge, with city leaders and advocates questioning tactics and whether federal agents are following local rules. E-Scooter Safety Push: Milwaukee officials are considering much higher fines for sidewalk scooter riding after serious injuries, with proposals that could also target scooter company compliance. Public Safety on Water: DNR and law enforcement are teaming up for Operation Dry Water this weekend to curb impaired boating. Environment & Access: DNR temporarily closed a Seeley Lake public access site in Sauk County while a dam is removed, urging people to use alternate access points. Sports & Community: A Giannis Antetokounmpo mural in Milwaukee was vandalized but quickly restored. Tourism & Culture: Langlade County tourism hit a record $87 million economic impact in 2025, and Wisconsin’s America 250 time capsule was sealed for future generations.

ICE enforcement in Milwaukee: A St. Francis man says he was pulled over for an unmarked SUV’s “police lights,” then detained by ICE despite having no criminal record, as immigrant advocates question the basis for a wave of visible street arrests. Public Safety & Heat: Milwaukee and southeast Wisconsin remain under an Extreme Heat Warning with thunderstorms possible through the Fourth weekend, and WisDOT/DNR are urging safer travel and impaired boating crackdowns. Local Government Operations: Milwaukee DPW offices close July 3; garbage/recycling schedules shift and drop-off centers shut for the holiday. State Politics & Courts: Wisconsin groups react to the U.S. Supreme Court’s campaign finance decision, arguing it further weakens election safeguards and boosts big money. Environment & Conservation: The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program expires, likely going dormant until the next budget, while Wisconsin also faces ongoing invasive species and boating-related prevention reminders. Economy & Agriculture: Wisconsin’s ag export push marks five years of growth, and egg producers reach a multi-state price-fixing settlement. Community & Culture: Wisconsin Public Radio names new hosts to replace Larry Meiller, and Milwaukee’s America 250 Fourth weekend lineup ramps up with fireworks and events.

Athletics & Sponsorship: Wisconsin Athletics landed Culver’s as the first jersey patch sponsor for Badger Football, Men’s Basketball and Men’s Hockey, a deal aimed at boosting resources for student-athletes. Immigration & Local Power: Milwaukee and Milwaukee County leaders are escalating their fight with ICE after a surge of arrests and disputes over federal agents using city/county property and ignoring a local mask ban. Health Policy: Wisconsin’s postpartum Medicaid expansion kicks in today, extending coverage to 12 months after childbirth. Public Safety: Milwaukee is weighing stricter e-scooter rules after a serious downtown crash, including higher fines and slower speeds. Environment: DNR says low oxygen caused the Silver Lake fish kill, with panfish rebuilding expected to take years. State Government & Money: Trump announced $22.6M in disaster loans for Wisconsin after spring storms, while local officials say details on who gets what remain unclear. Community & Culture: UW-Madison Police renewed calls for tips in the Donna Mraz cold case, and a Loggerodeo chainsaw carving competition is underway in Sedro-Woolley.

Election Integrity: Sen. Tammy Baldwin is pressing USPS for an investigation into spring election mail delays that left hundreds of Wisconsin ballots uncounted, warning the problem could repeat in fall if not fixed. School Funding: DPI released 2026-27 general school aid estimates with flat state funding—most districts face less aid, including many hit by the maximum allowable decrease. Public Health & Consumer Costs: Wisconsin is disposing 15 barrels of illegal vapes seized under the state’s approved-device law, while a multistate egg price-fixing settlement brings Wisconsin 2 million eggs for food banks. Weather & Federal Aid: President Trump says Wisconsin has been approved for $22.6 million in FEMA disaster assistance after spring storms, as Gov. Evers questions whether money will actually arrive. Wildlife & Outdoors: DNR is inviting residents to join a game bird survey this July and August, and it also approved 2026 deer harvest quotas. Community & Culture: A veterans art mural project is giving local service members a creative outlet, and a West Allis warehouse is now home to Sweet Spot Golf Club, aiming to make golf more affordable and welcoming. Sports & Local Life: Waupun’s baseball team earned a state tournament spot with a late rally, and Wisconsin’s deer season framework sets bonus antlerless authorizations for purchase starting Aug. 17.

Egg-Price Antitrust: Utah and a multi-state coalition reached a settlement with major egg producers accused of price-fixing, with a five-year court order aimed at stopping future collusion and sending eggs to food banks. State Politics & Land Conservation: Democrats blasted Republicans over the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program expiring, warning it could hurt parks, trails, and tourism while conservation groups face uncertainty. Immigration Enforcement Backlash: Milwaukee-area leaders and families are pushing for accountability after ICE arrests of 39 people, with witnesses describing aggressive tactics and local officials weighing legal action. Medicaid Data Mix-Up: Wisconsin DHS says Medicaid letters with personal information were sent to wrong addresses for thousands of SSI recipients, offering credit monitoring and a call center. Public Safety & Heat: Extreme heat and storms are driving warnings across the region, while local fire and EMS services face fewer volunteers and more 911 calls, prompting more paid staffing and state Fire Dues funding. Sports & Community: Nick Boyd signed with the Golden State Warriors; the Brewers’ Sal Frelick kept rolling; and Milwaukee marked the completion of the Bob Uecker mural.

Medicaid Fight: Wisconsin DOJ joined a multistate lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s Medicaid work requirements, arguing an interim rule makes it harder for medically frail people to keep coverage. Boating Safety: DNR is stepping up enforcement for Operation Dry Water July 3-5, warning that alcohol is a factor in a big share of Wisconsin fatal boating incidents. DNR Service Update: Seven northern Wisconsin DNR locations are now field offices only, with in-person help by appointment and licenses still available through authorized sales agents. High School Sports: The WIAA approved a limited shot clock for varsity nonconference games (35 seconds) with a later vote on full rollout. Elections Watch: Republicans are demanding an investigation after Green Bay’s election clerk mailed duplicate ballots to some voters. Public Safety & Crime: Milwaukee saw multiple shootings leaving three wounded, and police are investigating a wedding reception altercation in which a man allegedly shot two people. Heat & Travel: Extreme heat warnings continue into Wednesday, and WisDOT is urging drivers to plan ahead for Fourth of July traffic.

Extreme Heat & Air Quality: An air quality advisory hit Sheboygan, Ozaukee, Milwaukee, Racine and Kenosha Monday as ozone levels neared “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups,” with officials warning it can pair with the week’s dangerous heat. Heat Safety for Families: Milwaukee families packed cooling spots like Schulz Aquatic Park while WPS urged customers to cut summer bill shock and prepare for peak demand. Elections & Voting Access: Beloit Democratic Rep. Clinton Anderson pushed a bill for automatic voter registration tied to WisDOT driver’s licenses, while Wisconsin Watch reports misinformation filled transgender bill hearings and another report says evidence is lacking in GOP attacks on Elections Commission administrator Meagan Wolfe. Immigration & ICE: Advocates say ICE activity in Milwaukee surged with multiple arrests, raising questions about scope and tactics. Child Care Funding: Wisconsin’s childcare bridge payments end June 30, and many providers warn they may raise rates or close. Sports (Brewers): Joey Ortiz’s two-out, two-run homer powered the Brewers’ 5-3 comeback win over the Reds. Community Relief: Milwaukee Brewers from Venezuela led a donation drive for earthquake survivors, running through July 8.

NBA Gambling Probe: Former Milwaukee Buck Malik Beasley and ex-NBA Ed Davis were indicted in a federal sports-betting scheme, with prosecutors alleging they coordinated to influence performance based on betting trends. Immigration Detainers Fight: The ACLU of Wisconsin and Voces de la Frontera asked the Wisconsin Supreme Court to reject sheriffs’ efforts to delay a case over ICE detainers, saying people are being held for days. Medicaid Work Rules: Final federal rules spell out how Wisconsin will enforce Medicaid work requirements starting Jan. 1, 2027, pushing states to rebuild systems while avoiding coverage losses. Extreme Heat: An extreme heat warning covers much of Wisconsin, with heat indexes near 107 and dangerous overnight temperatures—officials urge hydration and cooling help. Child Care Bridge Payments Ending: The Child Care Bridge Payments program ends June 30, and providers warn rates could rise, squeezing already-stretched families. Local Politics: State Senate Democrat Dianne Hesselbein floated a constitutional abortion amendment if Democrats regain the legislature. Capitol/Local Government: ACLU-backed legal fight continues as Wisconsin debates local control over large farms and next steps after Supreme Court map rulings. Sports & Community: Tour of America’s Dairyland brings pro cycling stops to Wisconsin; Mishicot students attended Badger Boys State; and Milton baseball punched its ticket to state.

Extreme Heat: Wisconsin is under widespread Extreme Heat Warnings with heat indexes topping 100°F early this week, including Milwaukee around 101°F—officials urge hydration, cooling breaks, and checking on neighbors. Public Safety & Courts: Milwaukee’s JusticePoint keeps running jail alternatives while it fights the city in court, after judges ordered Milwaukee to continue paying during the lawsuit. Immigration Watch: Immigrants rights groups say they’re tracking increased ICE activity in Milwaukee and Waukesha over the weekend. Voting Rights: A federal judge blocked key parts of Trump’s 2026 election overhaul, including centralized citizen lists and mail-voting limits tied to federal approval. Health Policy: Advocates warn new Medicaid work requirements starting in 2027 could jeopardize coverage for many BadgerCare Plus enrollees. Community & Culture: Mitchell Park Domes’ corpse flower “Penelope” is blooming again, drawing crowds for a short, unforgettable show.

Fatal Crash & OWI Arrest: A Milwaukee man was arrested after an I-94 crash in Waukesha County, with troopers citing impairment and open intoxicating beverages; he faces OWI 3rd offense charges with two children in the vehicle. Milwaukee Court Action: The Wisconsin Supreme Court suspended Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan amid federal charges tied to allegedly helping a man evade immigration authorities. Health Care Watch: A New York state senator urged Wisconsin to “proceed with caution” as Wisconsin moves to change the Medicaid IRIS program vendor amid DOJ scrutiny of the company involved. Public Safety Reminder: The DNR is warning Wisconsinites to be extra careful with ATVs/UTVs and snowmobiles in winter conditions, especially on frozen water. Weather & Heat: Forecasts point to partly sunny skies and a major heat push Monday, with extreme heat watch conditions and dangerous heat indices. Community & Culture: Milwaukee’s Domes drew crowds for a rare corpse flower bloom, while local groups kept collecting donations for Venezuela earthquake relief. Sports: Wisconsin high school spring sports wrapped with WIAA state tournament photo highlights.

Energy & Climate: Wisconsin’s coal era keeps shrinking, with the last south-central coal plant set to close near Portage by mid-2026 and more wind, solar, and nuclear/hydro helping the state chase carbon-free electricity by 2050. Government Transparency: Wisconsin lawmakers moved to strengthen open-records access by backing SB 194, which would allow attorney fees when a records request is delayed by the threat of a lawsuit. Elections & Voting Access: A Wisconsin voters-with-disabilities story spotlights how absentee voting still relies on paper ballots, raising concerns about secret-ballot access and independence. Immigration & Public Safety: Milwaukee-area groups warn of elevated ICE activity, while police say they were aware of targeted enforcement tied to criminal activity. Health & Weather: DHS is tracking peak tick season and urges prevention; meanwhile, southern Wisconsin braces for a dangerous heat wave starting Monday. Milwaukee Community: Brady Street leaders launch a six-week safety pilot after recent shootings, and neighbors keep rallying for Venezuela earthquake relief. Environment & Outdoors: DNR opens 2026 elk applications through May 31, and the state’s Free Fun Weekend waives park fees and licenses for a two-day outdoor push. Sports & Local Pride: WIAA names team sportsmanship winners, and Wisconsin’s hockey pipeline keeps rolling with Badgers drafted into the NHL.

Public Transit & Local Economy: Beloit-Janesville Express could be discontinued after 2025 unless ridership picks up, with a proposed $80,000 state-funded study to reshape routes. Politics & Civic Trust: A former Wisconsin GOP party leader says he’s no longer a Republican loyalist, backing individual candidates instead of the party line. Land & Water Policy: The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program is set to expire after 37 years, raising alarms for conservation funding as lawmakers stall renewal. Courts & Representation: Wisconsin lawmakers are weighing immigration rule changes and broader court reform ideas, while a new report finds women now make up one-third of the Legislature. Environment & Wildlife: DNR approved an emergency rule letting anglers keep invasive round gobies in the Winnebago System (with strict handling rules), and the state urges drivers to watch for turtles during nesting season. Jobs & Weather: Wisconsin’s unemployment rate ticked down to 3.4% in May, as a stretch of dangerous heat moves in.

UW-Whitewater & Sports Honors: John Boie, a Paralympic gold medalist and Warhawks alum, was named a 2026 Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame inductee—the first Paralympian to earn the honor—set for July 8 in Milwaukee. Community & Veterans: Wounded Vets of Wisconsin is running a weekend truck show and convoy fundraiser in Arcadia (June 26-27) to support veterans, police, firefighters and EMTs. Civic Equality: A Wisconsin Women’s Council report spotlights progress and gaps in gender parity, noting women hold 34% of legislative seats but only 27% of statewide elected offices. Milwaukee River Restoration: New Beerline Trail mosaics unveiled in Riverwest will serve as a community info board for upcoming Milwaukee River cleanup and habitat work. Public Safety Update: Milwaukee County health officials say youth homicides are down in 2026 so far, though non-fatal shootings of minors are up. Tourism Economy: Record tourism impact data shows Rock County at $510M and Walworth County at $1.053B in 2025. Rail & Madison: Wisconsin is seeking a $218.2M federal grant to extend Amtrak Hiawatha service to Madison, with stops in Watertown and Pewaukee. Local Government: Milton accepted $300,000 in state money for lead service line replacements. Lottery: Wisconsin Lottery results for June 26, 2026, include Mega Millions 05-13-30-33-52 (MB 06) and Pick 3 midday 9-9-0, evening 0-6-2.