The City of Waukesha's Water Commission kicked off discussions on the 2026 capital improvement plan during its recent meeting, marking the first look at the budget for the upcoming year. This initial review is intended for discussion only, with final approval expected in November.

Key highlights from the meeting included a comprehensive overview of the city's capital spending history over the past decade. The presentation featured graphs illustrating past expenditures, emphasizing the significant financial commitments made towards the Great Water Alliance (GWA) projects. Notably, the commission announced that no budget allocations would be made for potential settlements or additional costs related to the GWA due to ongoing liquidated damages from performance issues.

The absence of GWA-related expenses in the 2026 budget signals a significant shift, as the commission confirmed that all associated projects are now complete. This development is expected to streamline future financial planning and allow for a renewed focus on other capital improvement initiatives.

As the commission prepares for the final budget approval in November, stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the proposed plan and address any questions or concerns. The outcome of this discussion will shape Waukesha's financial landscape for the coming year, highlighting the importance of transparency and community involvement in local governance.