Bill introduced would slash pay for Milwaukee Co. supervisors

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Just six weeks after taking office, one state representative is going to introduce a bill that's really stirring the pot in Milwaukee County. The proposal would slash pay for county supervisors and shift power.

State Assemblyman Joe Sanfelippo says the bill would change the job of Milwaukee County Supervisor to part-time. It would also slash pay roughly in half and give some of the board's power to the County Executive.

"If the state statues would have been properly defined back in 1960 when they changed to an executive form of government we wouldn't have these issues today," said Sanfelippo.

Sanfelippo says right now, county department heads are taking orders from as many as 18 supervisors and the County Executive.

The bill would make it clear, the county administrator's office has the lead role in the county. Changes would also include reducing supervisors' terms from four years to two -- and eliminating their benefits and pensions.

Supervisor Mark Borkowski says it is clear, change is needed on the board. He says he is not opposed to change coming from Madison.

"It took someone from Madison to in essence light a fire under us and so let's face it, we put ourselves in this position," said Borkowski.

Other supervisors say this is a power grab.

"The more things we're transferring to the executive branch the less people will have the opportunity to have their voices heard, and give input on contracts and input on how county government is run," said Supervisor David Bowen.

If the bill passes, in the end, it will be Milwaukee County citizens that decide what happens. The bill would put the idea to a referendum and voters would decide whether they want the changes.

The bill has a surprising list of sponsors in Madison. They include Democrat Lena Taylor and Republican Alberta Darling.

Sanfelippo hopes to have the bill go for a vote before summer.