Milwaukee Election Commission seeks extra staffing and machine funds as city prepares for four elections in 2026

The Milwaukee Election Commission presented a 2026 budget request to the Common Council’s Finance and Personnel Committee on Oct. 17 seeking funds to staff four elections in 2026 and to replace or upgrade voting equipment after a ballot shortage in April.

Lede: The commission’s proposed 2026 budget increases by roughly $2 million from 2025, driven largely by higher temporary staffing and operating costs tied to holding four elections next year rather than the two that occurred in 2025.

Nut Graf: Tyler Calaguero of the Budget Management Division told the committee that the bulk of the rise is in temporary salaries (from about $1.2 million to $2.5 million) and operating expenses needed for ballot production and voting‑system upkeep. Commission leaders said the April ballot shortage and the district’s high turnout in November prompted changes in ordering and operational practices.

Key points from the commission: The Election Commission’s executive director, Paulina Gutierrez, and deputy director Marisha Harris explained that 2026 includes four scheduled elections — increasing the commission’s need for temporary workers, ballots, postage and equipment maintenance. The commission’s operating request includes funds for express‑vote…