For the City Times

Governor’s Proposed Investment Builds on Work Already Accomplished this Session

MADISON – Governor Walker’s proposal to create a Rural Economic Development Fund has a prominent supporter in the State Senate in Senator Patrick Testin (R-Stevens Point).

The bill calls for investing $50 million annually in economic development in the less populated parts of Wisconsin – a plan that Sen. Testin says builds on work the legislature has already accomplished this session.

“No matter where in Wisconsin you’re born, you deserve the same access to opportunity,” said Sen. Testin. “Over the last year, I’ve worked to expand funding for broadband, increase access to health professionals in rural areas, and encourage partnerships between K-12 schools and homegrown Wisconsin businesses. Now Governor Walker’s funding proposal is the next step toward securing a vibrant future for rural communities, like the ones I represent in Central and Western Wisconsin.”

The legislation recently passed the Assembly 95-0, and has gained the support of business leaders in rural counties like Todd Kuckkahn, the Executive Director of the Portage County Business Council.