The Waukesha County Business Alliance is making its voice heard in opposition to the county’s proposed sales tax. The alliance argues that the tax is unnecessary and too burdensome for residents and businesses.

Amanda Payne, CEO of the Waukesha County Business Alliance, emphasized that the county’s lack of a sales tax is a point of pride, showcasing the area’s commitment to fiscal responsibility. “We have lasted this long because we have only taken as much as is needed,” Payne said to the MacIver Institute, criticizing the proposal for raising taxes by $50-60 million, which she believes is far beyond what is necessary.

County Executive Paul Farrow is advocating for a 0.05% sales tax, which would begin on July 1, 2025. He argues that the sales tax is essential to address the county’s growing fiscal needs. However, Payne and the business community remain concerned about the impact of such a tax on local businesses and consumers. She warned that it would increase the cost of goods, worsening inflation and reducing purchasing power. “This sales tax impacts businesses because it raises costs for consumers during a time of increased costs and inflation,” Payne explained.

Waukesha County is one of the last counties in Wisconsin without a sales tax, a distinction shared with some other areas like Milwaukee, which recently raised its own sales tax.