Muskego police, fire referendum; voters reject $5.9M measure

Muskego voters on Tuesday rejected a $5.9 million referendum to fund additional police officers and transition to full-time staffing for fire department services.Muskego referendumMuskego presented the referendum as the city's population expands. If passed, the property tax increase would have added about $500 annually to the tax bill of a median-assessed home valued at $512,000.Police, fire servicesThe proposal would have added five new patrol officers, ensuring one additional officer is on duty during each shift. The city would also have hired one new police dispatcher to assist with incoming calls.FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX LOCAL Mobile app for iOS or AndroidOfficials designed the measure as a five-year staffing plan, with plans to begin implementing the changes by January if it were approved. City leaders believe the additional staff will satisfy public safety needs for the foreseeable future.The money also would have funded 16 full-time positions, including