Wauwatosa Council Approves National Opioid Settlement with Purdue Pharma and Sackler Family

The Wauwatosa Common Council made significant strides in addressing community concerns during its recent meeting, focusing on public health, local governance, and disaster recovery.

One of the key decisions was the unanimous approval of a resolution to join a national opioid settlement against Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family. This settlement is notable as it involves one of the most recognized companies linked to the opioid crisis. Council members discussed the importance of joining the class settlement, which would allow Wauwatosa to benefit from potential financial compensation without engaging in lengthy litigation. The council's decision reflects a proactive approach to addressing the ongoing impacts of the opioid epidemic on the community.

In addition to the opioid settlement, the council amended its 2025 meeting calendar to include an additional session on September 9. This meeting will focus on a presentation regarding a potential merger between the Wauwatosa and West Allis Fire Departments. The decision to hold a full council meeting, rather than a smaller committee session, aims to ensure that all council members, including the mayor, can participate in the discussion. This move underscores the council's commitment to transparency and collaboration in local governance.

Another significant resolution passed was the waiver of permit fees for flood-related repairs for residents affected by the recent flooding in August 2025. This measure aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by homeowners as they work to recover from the disaster. By waiving these fees for 90 days, the council is taking a tangible step to support residents in their recovery efforts.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's dedication to addressing pressing community issues, from public health to disaster recovery, ensuring that Wauwatosa remains responsive to the needs of its residents. As these initiatives move forward, the council's actions will likely have lasting impacts on the community's well-being and resilience.