A Message from the Mayor

Dear Racine Residents,

Budget season is one of the most important times for our city. It reflects the careful planning, collaboration, and dedication of our staff to ensure Racine continues to provide the services residents depend on while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Each year, city departments work diligently to develop plans that balance priorities, address community needs, and set a clear course for the year ahead. I encourage residents to follow the 2026 budget process, attend meetings, and share feedback as we work together to make thoughtful, sustainable investments in Racine’s future.

At the same time, our teams are hard at work delivering programs that strengthen health and safety across our community. The Public Health Department’s ongoing harm reduction initiatives—like expanded access to naloxone and other life-saving resources—are helping prevent overdoses and connect residents to care. Whether it’s protecting public health, supporting local jobs, or hosting events that bring neighbors together, these efforts all reflect our shared commitment to building a stronger, healthier Racine.

Sincerely,

Mayor Cory Mason

In this issue:

2026 Budget Address
Job and Resource Fair
Monument Mash Returns!
Trick or Treat
Household Hazardous Waste
Harm Reduction Resources
Plus, a look at recent community events!

Budget Address Scheduled for Monday, October 20

Mayor Mason will present the City of Racine’s proposed 2026 budget to the Common Council on Monday, October 20, at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers. Residents are encouraged to attend in person or watch the livestream on the City’s YouTube channel.

The Mayor’s address marks the beginning of the City’s annual budget review process, when departments present their spending plans and priorities for the coming year. Departmental presentations and questions from the Alders will take place before the Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, October 22, and Thursday, October 23, starting at 6:00 p.m. each evening.

Community members will have the opportunity to share feedback during the public hearing on Thursday, October 30. The Common Council will then debate and vote on budget amendments on Wednesday, November 5, with final adoption scheduled for Thursday, November 6.

All meetings begin at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, are open to the public, and will be livestreamed for anyone who wishes to follow along remotely.

Job and Resource Fair: October 23

Looking for your next career opportunity or want to learn more about City services? Join the City of Racine Human Resources Department for our upcoming Job and Resource Fair! Meet one-on-one with City recruiters, explore exciting career paths, and discover valuable resources available through departments such as City Development, Fire, Police, and Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services — and many more.

Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025

Time: 4 – 6:30 p.m.

Location: Humble Park Community Center, 2300 Blaine Avenue

Whether you’re seeking a new job, career advice, or information on City programs, this is your chance to connect directly with the people who make Racine work.

Monument Mash Returns to Downtown Racine!

The City of Racine Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) invites you to the 13th annual Monument Mash on Saturday, October 25, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Monument Square in Downtown Racine!

This free, family-friendly Halloween celebration will include face painting, games, bouncy houses, music, prizes, food trucks, and costume contests for kids and families.

Winners of the costume contest will receive Downtown Racine gift certificates, redeemable at a variety of local shops and restaurants.

While you’re downtown, don’t miss the Downtown Racine Candy Crawl—stop by participating businesses for even more treats and Halloween fun! Learn more about the full Candy Crawl event.

Household Hazardous Waste

The final Household Hazardous Waste collection of the year is Saturday, October 18, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Racine Residential Drop-Off Facility and Waste Transfer Station, 6300 S. 21^st Street.

Held rain or shine every third Saturday from April through October, these collection events run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Take advantage of this opportunity to dispose of hazardous materials safely and conveniently.

For more details, visit the Household Hazardous Waste page.

Trick or Treat in Racine

Get ready for a spooktacular evening in the City of Racine! Trick-or-Treating will be held on Friday, October 31, from 5 to 7 p.m.

Residents who want to join the fun should keep their porch lights on to welcome little ghouls and goblins.

Families are encouraged to stay safe by sticking to sidewalks, avoiding homes they don’t know, and keeping an eye on traffic. Drivers, beware—watch for excited kids crossing streets as you cruise through neighborhoods!

Saving Lives Through Access: Harm Reduction Resources in Racine

Opioid overdose deaths in the United States dropped by nearly 17% between July 2023 and July 2024. Effective public health interventions that have contributed to this decrease include free and low-barrier access to naloxone (an overdose-reversal medication), expanded harm reduction services such as fentanyl test strips, increased access to medications for opioid use disorder, and drug education based in facts, not fear.

While overdose deaths are down overall, rates remain high or have increased among Black, Latino, and Native American populations in some communities. Other groups remain at risk, including those who are unhoused and people involved with the criminal legal system. These individuals tend to be some of the most vulnerable to overdose deaths.

Visit one of the City of Racine Public Health Department’s three public health vending machines for free harm reduction supplies:

Corinne Reid-Owens Transit Center, 1409 State Street
Racine Public Library, 75 7th Street
Dr. John Bryant Community Center, 601 Caron Butler Drive

Supplies can also be obtained at the City of Racine’s Public Health Department, located at City Hall, during business hours. If you have questions concerning harm reduction programs, call the City of Racine Public Health Department at 262-636-9431.

Out and About

Racine Celebrates Digital Inclusion Week

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Racine’s Digital Inclusion Week Celebration! We had a great event on October 8 to celebrate Digital Inclusion Week at the Racine Literacy Council. Seven local organizations came together to promote digital equity and share valuable resources with city residents.Attendees enjoyed interactive presentations on Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, and Safe Banking—each sparking thoughtful discussion and helping participants better understand how technology impacts their everyday lives.

Marine Credit Union generously provided food and raffle prizes, creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for everyone involved. The event received overwhelmingly positive feedback from both attendees and partners. If you missed it, a similar opportunity to connect and learn more about digital resources will be available at the upcoming Racine Literacy Fair on March 21, 2026.

Racine Public Library Honors Author Kevin Henkes

The Racine Public Library recently celebrated Kevin Henkes, the award-winning author and illustrator who was born and raised right here in Racine. Henkes is best known for his beloved children’s books including Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse, Chrysanthemum, Owen, Kitten’s First Full Moon, and The Year of Billy Miller.

During the celebration, the Library unveiled a permanent display (see above) honoring Henkes and his contributions to children’s literature. Alder David Maack presented a mayoral proclamation recognizing Henkes for his creative legacy and his lasting impact on generations of young readers.

The event was made possible through the support of the Friends of the Racine Public Library, who generously funded the new display case in Henkes’ honor.

Thank you for staying connected with us. We look forward to keeping you updated with the latest from City Hall and beyond.

cityofracine.org