A new poll commissioned by VISIT Milwaukee and the Milwaukee Metropolitan Association of Commerce (MMAC) shows 58% of likely voters support the Wisconsin Legislature's proposal to commit more than $600 million in public funds for capital improvements to American Family Field. 66% believe "Governor Evers and Republicans in the Legislature need to work together towards a solution" to the funding issue.
The poll, conducted by the Tarrance Group, surveyed 800 likely voters from September 20-25. It informed respondents that "there is a proposal in the state legislature to cover this shortfall with a combination of funding from the state of Wisconsin, the regional Stadium District, and the Brewers organization jointly paying for these improvements." 63% of Democrats, 57% of Republicans, and 52% of independents agreed with the proposal.
Participants in the poll were then told that "without new funding, there is the possibility of Wisconsin losing the Milwaukee Brewers to another state when their lease is up at American Family Field. Some people say Governor Evers and Republicans in the Legislature must work together to come up with a solution to this funding shortfall." 74% of Democrats, 64% of Republicans, and 60% of independents said they agreed.
"This poll affirms VISIT Milwaukee’s position that there must be a bipartisan solution that keeps the team and American Family Field in Milwaukee for generations to come," said VISIT Milwaukee President and CEO Peggy Williams-Smith.
"Major League Baseball and a multi-dimensional stadium uniquely enhance the region’s livability," said Tim Sheehy, president of MMAC. "In a world where recruiting and retaining talent is a challenge for employers, the Brewers are an asset on our balance sheet and one worthy of continued investment."
Legislative Republicans announced a bill last month that would commit $614 in state and local financing to American Family Field, with the Brewers agreeing to contribute approximately $100 million and extending their lease with the Southeastern Wisconsin Professional Ball Park District through 2050. Governor Evers has not yet indicated publicly whether he will support the proposal. He had pledged $290 million in state surplus funds in his state budget proposal in February, but Republicans rejected his plan and instead crafted their own, which includes state tax dollars generated by the Brewers as well as contributions from both Milwaukee County and the City of Milwaukee in addition to the Brewers.