The City of Waukesha's Transit Commission addressed a significant budget concern during its recent meeting, revealing a notable 3.26% drop in annual aid funding compared to last year. This decrease translates to approximately $70,000 less than what was initially budgeted, raising some eyebrows among officials.

Despite the drop, officials reassured the public that there is no immediate cause for alarm. They noted that adjustments made in June, along with lower fuel costs and available relief funds, should allow the city to manage the shortfall effectively this year. "We should be able to cover that shortfall for this year," one official stated, emphasizing confidence in the city's financial planning.

However, the commission did express concern about potential future funding cuts, anticipating another decrease next year due to expected reductions in federal funding. The maximum expense outlined in the current contract for both the city and county stands at $3.3 million.

As the meeting progressed, the commission moved to approve the aid agreement, with members seeking clarity on the implications of the funding changes. The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by local transit systems in securing stable financial support, underscoring the importance of proactive budgeting and planning for the future.