Wisconsin’s economic health depends just as much upon a high quality of life as upon more strictly economic activities, Gov. James Doyle told more than 160 attendees at the Milwaukee Jewish Federation’s Economic Forum last week.
And that “essential” quality of life includes a society that “values openness and tolerance,” Doyle said. “That is our strength. That is what we have to offer.”
And he pledged his administration will work to “turn away efforts” to make Wisconsin “less tolerant and open.”
“It is crucial that we get focused on the needs of people” and “not get sidetracked on issues that divide us,” such as proposed legislation to permit carrying of concealed firearms and to prohibit homosexual marriage, he said.
Speaking on Feb. 26 at the Rubenstein Pavilion of the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Terrace, Doyle also lauded the federation as “an important force” not only in Milwaukee but “across the state” in creating that quality of life.
Doyle devoted most of his remarks to outlining his “economic vision” for Wisconsin. He said current economic challenges include:
• Average wages in Wisconsin are below the national average.
• The rate of Wisconsin college graduates who leave the state is increasing.
• The state has not made necessary investments to modernize its infrastructure.
• The state has one of the highest overall tax rates in the nation, ranking among the top five states. While Doyle said he didn’t want Wisconsin to rank at the bottom — such states provide poor quality or no necessary government services — he would like to bring the ranking down to “the 15 or 16 range.”
Doyle said that the state needs to increase its minimum wage and work to create more of the higher paying jobs that “keep people in the state.” He also said he believes that Wisconsin can have both “the highest environmental protection standards and a healthy business climate.”
In addition to Doyle’s remarks, MJF president Judy Segall Guten announced that the annual campaign as of that day has raised $6,425,000 toward its goal of $8 million.
Jennifer Friedman, director of the Wisconsin B’nai B’rith Youth Organization, described the work of her organization, which she called “one of the most successful” in the country.
Wisconsin BBYO has more than 400 members and involves about “40 percent of the available Jewish teens in the Milwaukee area,” she said. It provides non-formal Jewish learning, leadership training and involvement in the greater Jewish community.
And the MJF has provided local BBYO with “needed financial security” that other BBYO chapters envy, Friedman said. “Thank you for your trust, belief and assistance,” she concluded.
The MJF’s Economic Forum, chaired by Brian J. Stark, features noted speakers on topics that appeal to members of the business and professional community. Last week’s event was co-sponsored by the Green Realty Company, the Sattell Johnson Appel CPA and business advising firm and State Financial Bank.
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