Milwaukee News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Property taxes are surging, with K-12 taxes seeing a record-breaking 7.8% hike and county taxes rising by 3.1%. This is largely due to state budget decisions and voter-approved referendums, particularly in districts like Beloit, Bruce, and Wauwatosa. Madisons levy grew by over $81 million, or 20.4%. Without policy changes, similar increases are expected next year, potentially leading to policy shifts in the state.

Milwaukee County Courthouse clerk, Alan Freed, testified that he called an ICE agent a fascist during an encounter in April. Freed, who believes Judge Hannah Dugan is innocent in the case against her, views the trial as political theater. His outspoken comments have drawn attention to the case, which revolves around Judge Dugans alleged help in avoiding ICE arrest for an immigrant.

The Hilton Milwaukee has completed a $42 million renovation, updating its guest rooms, lobby, and meeting spaces while preserving its Art Deco design. This investment is part of a larger $160 million commitment to Wisconsin hotel properties since 2019. The hotels west tower will reopen as The Marc in January.

Judge Hannah Dugan faces federal charges for allegedly obstructing an ICE arrest at the Milwaukee County Courthouse. Prosecutors claim she intentionally disrupted an operation to detain Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, while her defense argues she was navigating a confusing situation caused by previous ICE arrests. Key evidence includes a draft policy outlining courthouse staffs response to immigration operations. Dugans actions, such as directing ICE agents to the chief judges office and allowing Flores-Ruiz to exit through a public hallway, are central to the federal charges.

Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent Brenda Cassellius recently updated the districts lead-stabilization program, which has been ongoing for over ten months. The initiative aims to address and eliminate lead hazards in nearly one hundred schools, prioritizing the health and safety of students and staff. The comprehensive plan involves testing, remediation, and stabilization efforts. The superintendents announcement signifies continued progress in the districts lead-stabilization program, reassuring parents and guardians about the safety of their childrens schools.

Wantable Cafe, a beloved coffee shop and co-working space in Milwaukees Innovation District, is closing after Experience Milwaukee took over operations. Wantable, the original operator, is expanding its headquarters nearby, focusing on creative units. Despite the cafes closure, Walkers Point remains Milwaukees Innovation District, with new projects and collaborations in the works.

Lakefront Brewery unveils two new barrel-aged barleywines, the eleventh and twelfth in their Brewers Reserve series, crafted with seven malts and aged in rum and bourbon/rye barrels. These potent brews, at 10.68% and 12.6% ABV respectively, offer a sophisticated tasting experience. Available exclusively at the Commerce Street brewery and online, starting December 19th.

Todays podcast delves into the high-stakes trial of Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan, accused of obstructing federal immigration agents. The trial, unfolding in U.S. District Court, has seen key witnesses testify, including Sheriffs Office Sergeant David DeSmet and Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Kristela Cervera. The prosecution, led by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Keith Alexander, Kelly Brown Watzka, and Richard Frohling, faces off against defense attorneys Steve Biskupic, Nicole Masnica, and Hannah Dugan. Federal agents, including FBI Special Agents Jeffrey Baker and Erin Lucker, and U.S. Immigration, Customs and Enforcements Anthony Nimtz, have also taken the stand. The trials outcome promises to impact not just Judge Dugan, but the legal community and public understanding of judicial conduct and federal enforcement.

Raccoon crashes dinner at Grand Geneva Resort, bites patron: A wild night in Walworth County