Milwaukee County's Committee on Finance convened on July 17, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding financial reporting and operational efficiency within the Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS). A key focus of the meeting was the transition to a new financial reporting system, which has significantly impacted the timeliness and accuracy of financial data.

During the session, supervisors raised concerns about discrepancies between projected and actual financial outcomes. Supervisor Belinsky emphasized the need for clarity on the reasons behind these inaccuracies and sought assurance that corrective measures would be implemented to prevent future occurrences. In response, MCTS representatives acknowledged the challenges posed by the recent implementation of a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, which has delayed financial reporting. They explained that the transition required extensive data migration and staff training, resulting in a prolonged closing period for financial records.

The MCTS team reported that the typical three-week closing process was extended to 60 days during the transition, complicating their ability to provide timely updates on financial performance. Despite these challenges, they assured the committee that proactive measures were being taken to manage operational costs and improve reporting accuracy moving forward.

Additionally, the meeting included discussions about the scheduling process for transit staff, clarifying that employees would be notified of work requirements a day in advance, with opportunities for voluntary shifts. This approach aims to enhance workforce management while adhering to contractual obligations.

As the committee continues to navigate these financial challenges, the focus remains on improving transparency and operational effectiveness within the transit system, ensuring that Milwaukee County residents receive reliable and efficient public transportation services. The next steps will involve closely monitoring the impact of the new financial system and implementing the necessary adjustments to enhance future reporting and operational outcomes.