A Message from the Mayor
Spring is right around the corner, and there's a lot happening across the City of Racine. From summer job opportunities to major events returning to Festival Park, this season brings new energy to our community.
This newsletter includes important information about the upcoming April 1 election, including the Public Safety Referendum that will impact staffing in our Fire Department. I encourage all residents to learn more by attending a Community Listening Session or visiting our website.
March is also Women’s History Month, a time to honor the many women who have shaped history in Racine and beyond. Follow the City’s social media channels throughout the month to learn about some of the trailblazing women who made a lasting impact on our community.
As always, thank you for staying engaged and helping us build a stronger Racine.
— Mayor Cory Mason
| |
|
In this issue:
- Fire Department Referendum
- Festival Park Restoration
- Plus, a look at recent City happenings
| | | |
On the Ballot: Fire Department Referendum | |
|
On April 1, 2025, Racine voters will decide on a Public Safety Referendum to authorize a $1.5 million annual property tax levy increase to retain nine Paramedic/EMT positions in the Racine Fire Department. These positions are currently funded by a temporary federal SAFER grant, which is set to expire in 2026.
If approved, the referendum would increase property taxes by approximately $31 per year per $100,000 of assessed home value, starting with the December 2025 tax bill, and the nine positions will remain filled. If it fails, the department will face staffing cuts, leading to longer response times and reduced emergency service capacity.
| |
|
Residents are encouraged to learn more and ask questions at Community Listening Sessions:
-
Tuesday, March 11 – Humble Park Community Center, 2200 Blaine Avenue, at 5:30 p.m.
-
Tuesday, March 18 – Cesar Chavez Community Center, 2221 Douglas Avenue, at 5:30 p.m.
For detailed information, including fact sheets and FAQs, visit the City of Racine Fire Referendum webpage.
| | |
Spring Election: April 1
The Spring Election takes place in less than a month, on April 1.
In-Person Early voting will begin inside City Hall starting Tuesday, March 18. See voteracine.org for complete details.
The MyVote Wisconsin website is where you can find your polling place or find out what’s on the ballot in your district!
Remember to bring an acceptable photo ID to the polling place. If you need to register at the polls, you should also bring along proof of residence.
| |
Now Hiring: Lifeguards
Looking for a summer job on the shores of Lake Michigan? The City of Racine is recruiting lifeguards for the 2025 North Beach season! This is a great opportunity to work outdoors with a well-trained, supportive team while helping to keep the beach safe.
Lifeguard certification is not required to apply, but all hires must be certified by June 1 to join the roster. Currently certified lifeguards are strongly encouraged to apply.
If you're interested in public safety, working outside, and making a difference in the community, apply today!
| | |
|
Women's History Month
March marks Women’s History Month, a tribute to the many women who have made significant contributions to America and the rest of the world in the fields of science, politics, law, sports, the arts, entertainment, and many other fields.
This month, make sure you’re following the City’s Facebook and Instagram channels to learn about some of the women who made history in Racine!
| | |
Festival Park Restoration Brings New Energy to Racine’s Lakefront
Festival Park is back in action, thanks to the dedicated efforts of 5Kevents.org, LLC, which began managing these important Racine properties in 2024. Representatives recently presented a progress report to the Common Council, highlighting extensive cleaning and restoration work at Festival Hall, Memorial Hall, and Founders Square. With help from their staff, local businesses, and community volunteers, and other partners, these iconic spaces are looking better than ever.
This year’s calendar is filling up with public events, including the return of Racine Harbor Fest, Salmon-a-Rama, and more. To learn about upcoming events, visit festivalpark.com or follow Racine Festival Park on Facebook.
Thanks to 5kevents.org for their hard work bringing these beautiful spaces back to life!
| |
Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative Visit
The City of Racine recently welcomed representatives from the Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative, a program that helps cities address challenges and improve residents' quality of life.
Bloomberg Harvard is partnering with City staff to develop strategies that will increase the hiring of City of Racine residents. During their visit with the Mayor and City staff, they explored ways to update hiring practices, improve transparency, and expand opportunities for applicants. The team is also helping the City use data and metrics to better understand hiring trends and guide future decisions.
This collaboration is part of Racine’s commitment to building a workforce that reflects the community and creates more pathways to economic opportunity for residents.
| |  |
Joint Fire Recruit Academy Underway
In mid-February, the Racine Fire Department kicked off its first-ever Joint Recruit Academy in partnership with the Caledonia and South Shore Fire Departments.
The Racine County Fire Academy is a collaborative 5-week training program that brings together new recruits from all three departments to strengthen skills and teamwork.
In their first weeks, recruits practiced donning drills, self-survival techniques, and downed firefighter movement. They also visited the site of the recent Gilson Street house explosion to learn firsthand about emergency response in action. This partnership marks an exciting step in preparing the next generation of firefighters to serve our communities.
Photo Credit: Nate Leff
|
| |
|
Did you know that all domesticated pets—including dogs, cats, potbellied pigs, and ferrets—must be licensed in the City of Racine? Additionally, dogs, cats, and ferrets are required to be vaccinated against rabies to help protect both pets and the community.
Pet licenses expire annually on December 31 and must be renewed each year. Be sure to renew by March 31 to avoid a $5 late fee. (Newly acquired pets must be licensed within 30 days and are exempt from late fees.)
| |
|
Thank you for staying connected with us. We look forward to keeping you updated with the latest from City Hall and beyond. |
| | | |
