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Waukesha County Newsletter

News and tips for Waukesha County residents & visitors

March 20, 2025

Hello PIO,

Spring is in the air!

Hopefully we've made it through the worst of winter, and warmer days are ahead.


Speaking of fresh starts, last month, we successfully completed the launch of our new county website. The results are amazing! The look, feel and easy to use services will greatly help our users. Our staff spent more than a year working to bring Waukesha County into the modern digital era and we hope you enjoy it!


I recently took a tour of our courthouse construction project. Crews have made some incredible progress. Courtrooms are really taking shape! We're pleased to share that by the end of April, the north-south corridor, will re-open to the public. This means after going through our security screening, visitors can walk straight through to the courts tower. And in case you were wondering, yes, we will be removing the blue and yellow floor dots.


For those of you following my cancer journey, after nine rounds of chemotherapy treatments, I recently received surgery at Froedtert Hospital. As you might guess, I was nervous going in, but I had full faith in my oncology team, and I am happy to report it was a successful surgery. I'll be recovering for a while in the hospital and at home, but I am just so grateful for all the support I have received through this journey. Stay tuned for updates on my recovery on social media.


This month on "GovCast" Circuit Court Judge Jennifer Dorow weighs in on presiding over high-profile cases and state funding for courts. Stay tuned for new episodes coming out soon, Part 2 with Judge Dorow about her take on the upcoming spring election April 1sr. Also in a bonus episode, Clerk of Circuit Court Monica Paz warns about a jury duty scam. "GovCast" is available on all podcast platforms, listen and subscribe!

Listen and Watch GovCast Episodes

Paul Farrow

Waukesha County Executive

Parks & Land Use

Waukesha County Golf Courses

Swing by our website for updates: course openings, tee times, and more!

Details

Picnic & Camping Reservations

Looking to camp or picnic? Reservations are open! Camping starts April 1.

View More

Park System is Now Hiring

Now hiring! Enjoy flexible scheduling, on-the-job training, and outdoor work!

Apply Now

Park & Lake Access 2025 Membership

Get unlimited access to nine fee-based parks or choose a lake access membership. Explore outdoor fun all year!

Join Now

Save the Date: Earth Week

Join us April 21-26, 2025 for walks, hikes, and family-friendly fun. Or, volunteer for a clean-up or tree planting.

View More

Eble Ice Arena Public & Glow Skating

Public skating is now on weekends, too! Come skate all week long. Plus, two Glow Skate events added!

View More

Bridges Library System

Find a Seed Library!


Several Bridges libraries offer seed libraries to help start your garden. There are a variety of seeds available for you to "check out" for free.


Plant what you can, harvest what you grow, and return seeds from your crops later in the year. Seeds are available on a first-come, first served basis while supplies last.

The seed library in a small card catalog at Hartland Public Library.

Libraries with seeds:

• Brookfield Public Library

• Dwight Foster Public Library *

• Hartland Public Library *

• Jefferson Public Library

• Karl Junginger Memorial Library

• Menomonee Falls Public Library

• Mukwonago Community Library

• Pewaukee Public Library

• Oconomowoc Public Library

• Town Hall Library

• Waukesha Public Library

• Watertown Public Library

* Opening soon!

Health & Human Services Happenings

CHIP ARPA GRANT Updates: Strengthening Health & Well-Being in Waukesha County


The Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) in Waukesha County continues to make significant strides in enhancing the well-being of residents through the dedicated efforts of the Healthy Aging, Substance Use, and Mental Health Action Teams. Here’s a look at the latest developments:


Healthy Aging Action Team Prepares for Growing Needs

Team Chairs: Sarah Butz, Dave Carroll, Mary Smith, Lisa Bittman


The Healthy Aging Action Team is focused on reducing falls and increasing social connections among older adults. Several organizations received CHIP ARPA Grants in 2024 to support initiatives aligned with these goals:

  • City of Waukesha: Expanding Ballroom Basics to enhance balance, coordination, and social engagement. Visit the City of Waukesha’s Activity Guide or call 262-524-3737 for more information.
  • Eras Senior Network, Inc.: Strengthening social connections for those over 60 through telephone check-ins and intergenerational programming. They've launched a community calendar for those 60+ and 18+ with disabilities:

https://eras.org/community/

To post an event your company is hosting, click here: Community Portal - New Organization.

  • La Casa de Esperanza, Inc.: Fostering intergenerational bonds between middle school students and seniors through the Seniors and Scholars program.
  • Advocate Aurora Health: Establishing the Waukesha County Falls Prevention Coalition to raise awareness and provide education on fall prevention.
  • Universities of Wisconsin: Expanding the StrongBodies (StrongBodies – Health & Well-Being) program to promote strength-building and balance for older adults.

These initiatives play a crucial role in supporting the health and well-being of older residents in our community.


Substance Use Action Team Expands Support for Opioid Recovery and Housing

Team Chairs: Brea Lopez, Hailey Nenonen, Sara Carpenter, Stephanie Engle


Thanks to CHIP ARPA Grant funding, the Substance Use Action Team is excited to welcome a Certified Peer Specialist through Wisconsin Community Services, Inc. This role provides mentorship and guidance to individuals in early recovery, offering lived-experience support to improve outcomes and quality of life.


Other Key News:

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has launched a groundbreaking Medicaid Housing Support Services Benefit. This initiative makes Wisconsin one of the first states to provide housing support for individuals facing health challenges and housing insecurity. More details on eligibility and service availability can be found here: Medicaid: Housing Support Services Medicaid Benefit | Wisconsin Department of Health Services.


Mental Health Action Team Strengthens Youth Mental Health Resources

Team Chairs: Amanda Huber, Amanda Wisth, Daniel Shine & Dhruvi Shah


The Mental Health Action Team is making significant progress in supporting youth mental health services. Highlights include:

  • Partnership with NAMI Southeast Wisconsin to distribute 988 crisis helpline promotional materials using ARPA grant funds.
  • Collaboration with Waukesha County Crisis, securing a $200,000 grant to support the 988 Wisconsin Lifeline.
  • Community Outreach, including presentations to Interfaith Community Group and the Waukesha Clergy on youth mental health and 988 services.
  • Business Partnership Expansion, exploring opportunities with larger corporations to enhance mental health resources.
  • School Support Initiatives, developing a treatment and resource inventory for all school districts in Waukesha County to identify service gaps and strengthen the Lighthouse Project.
  • New Partnerships, welcoming Children’s Wisconsin and Kettle Moraine High School to enhance collaboration.


Stay Connected & Spread the Word!

We’re committed to keeping the community informed about CHIP’s impact. Follow us and share updates from these platforms:

🔹 CHIP Webpage: CHIP | Waukesha County

🔹 LinkedIn CHIP Report Newsletter: Waukesha County Health & Human Services

🔹 Facebook: HHS Facebook

🔹 Instagram: HHS Instagram

🔹 NextDoor: HHS NextDoor

🔹 YouTube: Healthy Aging Video | About CHIP

Let’s continue working together to make Waukesha County a healthier, more connected community!

Honoring National Social Work Month


As we commemorate National Social Work Month, it's essential to recognize the invaluable contributions of the dedicated social workers in Waukesha County. Their unwavering commitment to promoting the safety and well-being of individuals in our community is truly commendable.


Social workers play a vital role in addressing complex social issues, providing support, advocacy, and resources to those in need. Their compassion, empathy, and professionalism are instrumental in creating positive change and empowering individuals to overcome challenges.


Throughout Health and Human Services, social workers work tirelessly to ensure that the most vulnerable members of our society receive the care and assistance they deserve. Whether it's advocating for children in need of protection, supporting individuals struggling with mental health issues, or assisting families in crisis, their efforts have a profound impact on countless lives.


In celebrating National Social Work Month, let us express our gratitude to all the social workers who dedicate themselves to making a difference every day. Your hard work, dedication, and compassion do not go unnoticed. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to serving others and for embodying the values of empathy and social justice in all that you do.

Looking for something to do? Check out the brand NEW Community Calendar that has launched! Any community entity can submit their own programs and events once they register. Share the calendar to anyone!

Check out what is out there and filter by category:

  • Caregiver
  • Educational
  • Disease Specific
  • Memory Cafe
  • Preventable Health Care
  • Exercise
  • Arts & Crafts
  • Religious Studies

Celebrating Success and Looking Ahead: Our 2025 Annual Report is Here!


We are thrilled to announce the release of our 2025 Annual Report, a testament to the incredible work and dedication HHS staff have poured into making this year a remarkable success. This comprehensive report showcases the outstanding achievements across our divisions, highlighting the many ways we've continued to serve and uplift our community.


In 2024, hard work and commitment were the driving forces behind numerous successes, from launching new initiatives and enhancing community partnerships to advancing our strategic goals. 


As we celebrate the year gone by, we also look forward to 2025 with great anticipation. Our report details exciting plans and focus areas for the coming year, ensuring that we continue to strive for excellence and deliver unparalleled service to those we serve.


We are immensely proud of our passionate and dedicated team. Please take some time to review the report and join us in celebrating these shared achievements and aspirations. 


Check it Out!

Emergency Management

Wisconsin Severe Weather Awareness Week

April 7th - 11th, 2025

Wisconsin's rapidly changing weather, especially severe storms, necessitates robust emergency preparedness. The state observes April 7-11, 2025, as Tornado and Severe Weather Awareness Week, highlighting the need for plans and safety awareness. Tornados and Severe Weather can occur at any time. Waukesha County residents should review their emergency plans and identify safe shelter locations.


Wisconsin averages 23 tornadoes annually, underscoring the importance of having actionable emergency plans and being prepared to respond swiftly to tornado warnings.


Waukesha County Emergency Management advises several key safety measures for severe-weather preparedness:


  • Develop and practice an emergency plan.
  • Identify shelter locations at home, work, and school, and be ready to go there when a tornado warning is issued.
  • Ensure access to multiple alert systems, including outdoor warning sirens, NOAA Weather Radios, local media, and mobile devices.
  • Activate Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on mobile devices to receive crucial notifications. For more information on WEA, visit the Waukesha County Emergency Management website.
  • Monitor the daily weather forecast to remain aware of potentially severe weather.
  • Assemble an emergency kit for your home, with guidance available on the ReadyWisconsin website.


The statewide tornado drills on April 10, 2025, will occur at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. These drills are an opportunity for schools, businesses, and households to practice sheltering procedures. Ideal shelter locations include basements, ground-floor interior rooms, or specially constructed safe rooms.


During these drills, local NWS offices will conduct NOAA Weather Radio tests, with alerts broadcast to devices set to receive test warnings. Media outlets may also participate through various channels. Certain communities might opt to test their outdoor warning sirens at this time.


For additional information and steps to take before, during, and after Severe Weather, visit Waukesha County Emergency Management's Disasters & Emergencies page.

Public Works

A Look Into Fleet


We had the pleasure of hosting students from Waukesha County Technical College at our Fleet Division for a brief presentation and tour of our shop. DPW Director Allison Bussler, Fleet Manager Tom Zembruski, and Shop Supervisor Tim Childress spoke to the students about the importance of education, training, and the inner workings of a shop environment.


After a quick look into budgeting, students were able to chat with our mechanics about their positions at the county, ask questions about equipment, and view the broad spectrum of services fleet offers firsthand.


We thank WCTC for allowing us the ability to counsel their students and to our mechanics for sharing their day-to-day operations with the future workforce!

Extension

When to Plant Your Vegetable Garden

Curious about when to plant vegetables this year? Check out this planting schedule! You can also print the schedule at https://bit.ly/ExtWCVegPlantSched.

WAUKESHA COUNTY GIVES BACK

In the spirit of March Madness, Waukesha County staff teamed up with the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF). Staff tested their skills over their lunch break to see who could sink the most baskets in one minute, two winners tied with 39 baskets! Wow! But what's even more impressive is that staff helped raise $330 for UPAF. Good luck in all your brackets and check out County Executive's impressive skills!

What To Do In Waukesha County

Spring Break Programs

March 24-28, 2025 | Daily offerings!


Celebrate Spring Break the nature-filled way! Join us at Retzer Nature Center from March 24-28 for a week of exploration, adventure, and hands-on activities! Register here.

Arbor Day Tree Planting

Friday, April 25, 2025 | 10:30 a.m. to noon


Join us at Naga-Waukee Park to celebrate Arbor Day! Help Waukesha County Parks make a difference in your community by planting native trees that enhance and preserve our natural areas. Register here.

Volunteer Clean-Up

Saturday, April 26, 2025 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.


Come out to one or more of the Waukesha County Parks to re-beautify views and protect wildlife, plant life, waterways, soil, and ecosystems from dangerous materials by removing litter! Register here.

CCW- Concealed Carry Weapons Class


This 4-Hour class satisfies the WI DOJ CCW license application requirement.

Class registration is required.


Classes are held at the Waukesha Count Sheriff's Department 

515 W. Moreland Boulevard Waukesha, WI 53188


Available Spring 2025 Classes:

February 5th 6pm-10 pm

February 8th 8am-12 pm

March 12th 6pm-10 pm

March 15th 8am-12 pm

April 23rd 6pm-10 pm

April 26th 8am-12 pm



Visit our Website

Thank You

for reading this edition of the Waukesha County Newsletter! 

We welcome your input, questions, and comments.

- Waukesha County Executive's Office

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