AGP Executive Report

Storm Recovery & Consumer Protection: Gov. Tony Evers declared a period of abnormal economic disruption for Outagamie, Winnebago, Forest and Vilas counties and ordered DATCP to enforce Wisconsin’s ban on price gouging on essentials and lodging, while also appealing FEMA’s denial of disaster aid. Milwaukee Business & Courts: A former Milwaukee Tool employee, Mathew Yang, was sentenced to five years in prison in a $1M theft case tied to fraudulent orders. Downtown Milwaukee Real Estate: J. Jeffers & Co. faces a foreclosure suit over the historic Mackie Building after defaulting on a $6.7M loan, putting the Grain Exchange and apartments at risk. Data Centers & Power Lines: In Ozaukee County, residents won a PSC ruling forcing ATC to rewrite a transmission proposal tied to the Port Washington data center; in Washington County, neighbors also pushed back on a separate line. Local Development: VIA CDC broke ground on a south-side townhome project aimed at affordable homeownership, while Ripon rolled out a grant for upkeep in the Watson Street Historic District. Politics & Money: New campaign finance reports show Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley leading fundraising in the Democratic governor primary, even as polling still has Francesca Hong ahead.

Data Center Grid Fight: Wisconsin regulators sent American Transmission Company back to the drawing board over its Port Washington data center connection, after months of design revisions left a “muddy picture” of a project expected to cost well over $1 billion. Local Infrastructure: Milwaukee County will rebuild a key Oak Leaf Trail connector from Juneau Park down Lincoln Memorial Drive, with $250,000 funded through a tax incremental financing district tied to Northwestern Mutual’s North Office redevelopment. Elections Integrity: Green Bay’s city clerk, Celestine Jeffreys, is stepping down amid an investigation into duplicate absentee ballots in back-to-back elections. Student Debt Pressure: Wisconsin student loan borrowers face higher payments as the SAVE plan winds down, with default rates rising and thousands pushed into tougher repayment terms. Food Safety: Costco expanded a jalapeño recall tied to potential Salmonella contamination, with the issue centered on a Florida supplier and affecting products sold in the Orlando area. Business & Community: Ariens Nordic Center in Brillion opened a new 18-hole disc golf course, aiming to boost tourism and host a major PDGA event in 2028.

Milwaukee Water Works: Milwaukee cut fluoride in drinking water starting July 31 due to supply-chain disruptions, dropping levels roughly from 0.6–0.7 mg/L to 0.3 mg/L; officials say it’s still safe and the remaining supply should last 3–4 months. Green Bay Development: The city is building a $1.6 million Food Innovation Center on its southeast side, with processing and storage aimed at helping small and mid-size farmers scale, plus solar and a state grant and Oneida Nation support. Green Bay Housing & Tourism: NOVA’s new luxury apartment building is drawing early leasing interest, while cruise stops in Green Bay are set to triple this summer with American Cruise Lines adding more visits. Local Business & Government: La Crosse’s Common Council is set to vote Aug. 13 on $90,000 to keep its legal challenge to the Village of French Island’s incorporation going. Consumer & Fraud Watch: BBB Scam Tracker shows Milwaukee leads Wisconsin scam reports in June, while Crivitz tied for 20th with three reports. Agriculture Tech: AI dairy software company Spade Technologies is setting up its Canadian headquarters in Winnipeg, backed by a $1.4 million investment. State Politics: Wisconsin’s governor’s primary is intensifying as candidates respond to Madison protests and encampment fallout.

Data Center Power Rules: A new UW-Madison report argues Wisconsin needs statewide, enforceable rules for AI data centers—especially around who pays for dedicated energy and transmission upgrades—after current protections vary by utility. Local Data Center Fight: Wisconsin Rapids residents packed a meeting to protest a proposed PNK Group data center, with opponents warning about environmental impacts and strain on local resources. Energy & Wildlife: The DNR says a Monroe County power project may cause incidental harm to endangered and threatened species, including a slender glass lizard, as ATC reissues a permit for expanded work along existing transmission lines. Housing Affordability: A national analysis finds “starter home” affordability is still out of reach for many households, with the report highlighting how much income is needed to buy in 2026. Workplace Health: A Wisconsin conference in Wausau (Sept. 10) will focus on preventative workplace wellness strategies for employers and managers. Politics & Labor: SEIU Wisconsin and young progressive groups endorsed Francesca Hong for governor, backing plans including a $20 minimum wage and expanded BadgerCare. Sports Business: The Brewers added Dustin May and other pitching help after missing out on Tarik Skubal in the MLB trade deadline.

Brewers Pitching Update: Kyle Harrison’s return was electric—10 strikeouts in five innings vs. the Pirates—but he exited early with cramps in both calves, dashing a shot at the MLB consecutive-K mark. MLB Trade Watch (Cubs): Chicago is close to acquiring Mets pitcher Clay Holmes and outfielder Tyrone Taylor, adding depth as it chases Milwaukee in the NL Central. Wisconsin Alcohol & Politics: Minocqua Brewing Company says it’s still open after the state issued notice to revoke its alcohol permit over controversial drink promotions tied to Trump and McConnell deaths; the owner is appealing. Housing Development: Racine opened new apartments at the former Regency Mall site, adding 266 units as the city targets a steep annual housing shortfall. Local Economic Strategy: Watertown unveiled a new economic development plan built around agriculture, skilled trades, healthcare, and recreation—aimed at filling workforce gaps. Health & Regulation: A CDC report highlights four tetanus cases in 2024 across Idaho, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin, tied to incomplete vaccination after everyday injuries. Prediction Markets: A federal judge ruled Utah can enforce anti-gambling rules against Kalshi, a reminder that state-by-state regulation is still reshaping the market. Campaign Finance (WI Gov): New reports show GOP candidate Tom Tiffany raised $4.6M in late July, far outpacing Democrats, with David Crowley leading the Democratic field.

Milwaukee Development: The City of Milwaukee is again hunting for a developer to rescue the long-stalled historic Humboldt Gardens tavern building at 2249 N. Humboldt Ave., listing it for $5,000 and warning buyers to expect major, costly rehabilitation. Tariffs & Legal Fight: The Trump administration has paid about $100B in tariff refunds after the Supreme Court struck down the original duties, but 25 states—including Wisconsin—are suing to block the new tariff regime they call a “pretext.” Data Centers & Energy Risk: Wisconsin regulators backed customer protections tied to data-center power buildouts, including collateral requirements, as Oracle seeks a $7B investment in Port Washington. Campaign Finance & Politics: A new report details the chaotic end of Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez’s governor run, including questionable reimbursements and last-minute fundraising after she fired her campaign manager. Labor & Health Policy: SEIU Wisconsin endorsed Francesca Hong for governor, pitching her as a pro-worker alternative focused on BadgerCare expansion and labor protections. Tech Surveillance Backlash: Flock ALPR cameras face rising scrutiny over accuracy, misuse, and privacy concerns, with court records and lawsuits cited nationwide. Brewers Move: After acquiring Dustin May, Milwaukee optioned Brandon Sproat to Triple-A Nashville, reshaping the rotation ahead of the Pirates series.

Brewers Rotation Shake-Up: After the Aug. 3 deadline splash that brought Dustin May and JoJo Romero, Milwaukee optioned Brandon Sproat to Triple-A Nashville following another uneven outing, while Kyle Harrison is set to return from the injured list and start Wednesday. Tariff Fight Hits Wisconsin: A 25-state coalition including Wisconsin sued the Trump administration over new tariffs, arguing the move unlawfully raises taxes on families and businesses after a Supreme Court ruling. Prediction Markets Under Legal Pressure: New York is seeking $36 billion from Kalshi, while a nearby federal judge previously blocked Minnesota’s prediction-market felony law—another sign the rules for event-contract trading are being rewritten court by court. Air Service Disruption for Central Wisconsin: United Airlines’ return to Central Wisconsin Airport was delayed as O’Hare’s takeoff/landing limits run through October 2027, pushing the airline’s CWA restart to November 2027. Local Business & Policy: Sheboygan’s council advanced a transparency resolution tied to how voucher levies show up on property tax bills, while Milwaukee’s voucher debate continues to heat up in the governor’s race. Amazon Logistics Expansion: Amazon Business rolled out dedicated, branded delivery trucks in 13 states including Wisconsin, aiming to better serve organizations that need dock drop-offs and palletized deliveries.

MLB Trade Deadline Aftermath: The Dodgers’ blockbuster for Tigers ace Tarik Skubal, plus other major deadline moves like Freddy Peralta to the Rays and Adley Rutschman to the Red Sox, reshaped contenders and farm systems across the league. Wisconsin Housing & Consumer Tips: DATCP says landlord-tenant complaints topped its 2025 list, and it’s urging renters—especially first-timers and students—to review leases, confirm utility and maintenance responsibilities, and vet moving companies. State Politics to Watch: Wisconsin’s Aug. 11 legislative primaries could decide control of the Assembly and Senate under newly competitive maps, with sparse polling making swing districts especially important. Tariffs in the Courts: Wisconsin is among states suing the Trump administration over new tariff actions, arguing they’re unlawful and aimed at replacing taxes the Supreme Court struck down. Energy & Data Centers: A resident coalition has petitioned Wisconsin’s Public Service Commission to challenge ATC’s transmission project tied to the Port Washington data center, citing major late changes that they say block meaningful review. Workforce & Health Care: Molina Healthcare of Nebraska paused its DME Navigator rollout, while a UW-Oshkosh symposium spotlights Wisconsin’s healthcare workforce needs. Local Business Moves: JB Strategic Properties bought a Grafton office-supply building to support JB Office Solutions’ Midwest expansion, and Kenosha’s Innovation Neighborhood welcomed Upload Partners as a new tenant partner.

Brewers Trade Deadline Moves: Milwaukee landed Cardinals starter Dustin May and reliever JoJo Romero, then added bullpen help by acquiring Antonio Senzatela, aiming to keep its division lead while missing out on Tarik Skubal. MLB Deadline Fallout: The Dodgers’ Skubal deal reshuffled World Series odds, while the Cubs kept pace with multiple pitching upgrades and the Pirates dealt with a major setback as Mitch Keller is out for the season. Tariff Fight in Wisconsin: Twenty-five states, including Wisconsin, sued the Trump administration to block sweeping new tariffs tied to forced-labor claims, arguing the move exceeds legal authority and seeks refunds. Media Business Watch: Tony Romo’s CBS future is in question after an OWI arrest in Wisconsin, with the network weighing contract costs and whether it can end the deal for cause. Local Business & Community: Milwaukee’s Bronzeville Week continues with business and culture events, while a proposed new tavern could bring activity back to a Franklin Heights storefront.

MLB Trade Deadline (Wisconsin impact): The Chicago Cubs landed right-hander Kevin Gausman from the Toronto Blue Jays, giving the rotation a playoff-caliber arm as Milwaukee’s own trade hopes shifted after Tarik Skubal went to the Dodgers. State Services: Wisconsin DNR says all counter service, the statewide call center, and email support will be unavailable Aug. 26-27, with online and mail options still available and emergency lines continuing. Local Business & Community: Marcus Theatres reported record-breaking box office and revenue over the weekend, while Wausau’s Good News Project finished a loading dock renovation with donor support to streamline operations. Economic Development & Grants: USDA Rural Development opened applications for its FIELDS fertilizer program (up to $500M) through Aug. 17, and the Bernick Family Foundation is accepting grant applications through Sept. 30 for youth career skills and active-lifestyle programs. Health & Pharma: Keenova published new research on XIAFLEX outcomes for Peyronie’s disease, and South Dakota announced a major Sandoz settlement tied to alleged generic drug price-fixing.

ML Trade Deadline Shock: The Dodgers landed two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal from the Tigers for a three-prospect package (Zyhir Hope, River Ryan, Brady Smith), a deal that sparked backlash across baseball over the return and the sport’s economics. AL East Pitching Move: The Rays acquired Freddy Peralta from the Mets for three minor leaguers, aiming to strengthen a top-tier rotation as they chase the Yankees and Red Sox. Local Sports Angle: Milwaukee’s Jacob Misiorowski called Angel Stadium’s mound “awful” after a Brewers loss, while the Cubs added Kevin Gausman from the Blue Jays ahead of the deadline. Wisconsin Politics: Wisconsin’s governor race continues to take shape with GOP candidates Tom Tiffany and Andy Manske, and Democratic contenders including Milwaukee County Executive Kelda Roys and others. Policy & Tech: Wisconsin treasurer candidate Dylan Helmenstine pushed for a one-year AI data center moratorium, citing transparency, environmental safety, and community benefits. Immigration Impact: Wisconsin is feeling the fallout from the end of Temporary Protected Status for some Haitians, with local courts and services facing new pressure.

MLB Trade Deadline: The Dodgers landed Tarik Skubal, the Tigers’ two-time Cy Young winner, in a blockbuster deal for outfielder Zyhir Hope and pitchers River Ryan and Brady Smith—reshaping the 2026 playoff picture and intensifying the broader starting-pitcher scramble. Wisconsin Sports Business: With Milwaukee’s rotation still in focus after LA’s move, the Brewers face a deadline test: how to add pitching without overreacting to the Dodgers’ splash. Energy & Regulation: Michigan’s Supreme Court sent Enbridge’s Line 5 tunnel permit back to regulators, citing gaps in how environmental and public-trust issues were weighed—another delay with ripple effects for regional energy planning and jobs. Local Economic Development: Jefferson County’s State of the County report highlights new development momentum tied to local economic groups and housing financing tools, plus recognition for county departments. Community & Events: Manitowoc’s Malt City Brewfest drew craft beer fans despite light rain, underscoring steady demand for local maker and food-and-drink events. Politics & Labor Market: A new look at Wisconsin’s Democratic governor race frames Francesca Hong’s rise as a prove-it moment for the progressive insurgency—an issue that can quickly spill into policy and business climate debates.

MLB Trade Market: The Dodgers landed Tarik Skubal from the Tigers in the biggest deal of the deadline, sending Zyhir Hope, River Ryan and Brady Smith to Detroit. Local Sports Business: The Brewers also made a deadline move, acquiring catcher Bo Naylor and reliever Codi Heuer from Cleveland for Blake Perkins and Craig Yoho. Wisconsin Economy & Finance: A new look at Fiserv’s stock selloff argues the core issue is governance and trust in strategy—not just payments performance. Community & Local Commerce: Pick ‘n Save and Metro Market launched a register round-up for Fox Valley tornado relief, adding to earlier grocery donations. Civic Life: Milwaukee County is seeking a year-round tenant for the former Red Arrow Park coffee shop space, with the county open to uses beyond coffee. Energy & Environment: A Michigan Supreme Court ruling orders regulators to revisit an Enbridge Line 5 tunnel permit under the Great Lakes, adding uncertainty for the project. Public Safety & Policy: Wisconsin Elections Commission guidance reiterates that betting on elections and voting in the same election can trigger serious penalties. Sports-Adjacent Wisconsin Culture: Former Bucks center Larry Sanders returned to Milwaukee to launch a long-term community initiative tied to mental health advocacy.

Brewers-Guardians Deadline Swap: Milwaukee kicked off the Aug. 3 MLB trade window by sending reliever Craig Yoho and outfielder Blake Perkins to Cleveland for catcher Bo Naylor and RHP Codi Heuer, with both sides optioning the new arrivals to Triple-A. Storm-Repair Watch: Wisconsin’s agriculture and consumer protection agency urged homeowners hit by late-July tornado and hail damage to avoid “storm chasers,” use written contracts, and follow state rules on insurance and repair authorization. Great Lakes Energy Fight: The Michigan Supreme Court ordered regulators to revisit an Enbridge Line 5 permit for a tunnel under the Straits of Mackinac, citing gaps in how alternatives and environmental impacts were weighed. Milwaukee Trail Planning: Milwaukee County DOT released a preferred route for a new trail linking Havenwoods State Forest to the Hank Aaron State Trail through the 30th Street industrial corridor, funded by a $700,000 federal grant and still seeking public feedback. AI and Fraud/Work: A new analysis says AI-enabled scams surged in 2025, while the Democratic Socialists of America is framing AI as corporate surveillance tied to job cuts. Education Lag: Wisconsin’s school data tool finds math/reading and absenteeism still haven’t fully bounced back to pre-pandemic levels, even as graduation rates rise.

College Sports Policy: The Big Ten and SEC backed a long-stalled Senate bill to regulate college athletics, giving the measure new life after last-minute tweaks on name-image-likeness deals. Energy & Environment: A Michigan Supreme Court ruling forces the Public Service Commission to redo its Line 5 permit review, raising new hurdles for pipeline planning that affects Great Lakes risk. Wisconsin Business & Safety: We Energies identified a tree-trimming subcontractor killed in a suspected lightning strike in Whitewater, underscoring ongoing workplace risk for contractors. Local Economy & Community: Madison leaders are pressing to end a protest encampment on Williamson Street, saying it’s harming local businesses and services. Tornado Recovery: Second Harvest Food Bank began delivering 63,000 pounds of food to northeast Wisconsin tornado areas, aiming to support about 52,000 meals. Milwaukee Neighborhoods: Bronzeville Week returns with a week of events celebrating Black culture, business, and community in Harambee and Halyard Park. Natural Resources Funding: Wisconsin’s Knowles-Nelson conservation program is set to expire, a major hit for land and water stewardship funding. Sports Business: The Brewers’ pursuit of Tarik Skubal keeps heating up as MLB trade deadline odds and plans shift.

M&A: Sargento has signed a definitive deal to acquire California-based La Terra Fina, a premium dips, spreads and quiches maker, with the transaction expected to close in late September. Manufacturing & defense: A Wisconsin viewpoint argues manufacturers should chase defense drone contracts as the next major procurement wave. Energy & data centers: WEC Energy Group CEO Scott Lauber says Oracle will meet Wisconsin Public Service Commission collateral requirements for the Lighthouse data center campus in Port Washington, aiming to protect ratepayers. Politics & utilities: Democratic governor candidates at a Milwaukee forum pressed to expand the Public Service Commission’s role in policing data-center costs and pollution impacts. Storm recovery & consumer protection: After the Fox Valley EF-3 tornado, Gov. Evers activated the Wisconsin National Guard for cleanup and safety support; meanwhile DATCP warns homeowners to avoid “storm chaser” door-to-door repair crews and to use written contracts and local contractors. Agribusiness grants: DATCP opened Dairy Processor Grant applications, offering up to $50,000 per project for Wisconsin processors. Small business support: WEDC will accept applications for Small Business Technical Assistance grants starting Aug. 3, up to $200,000. Sports business: With the MLB trade deadline Monday, Brewers-linked rumors keep focus on Tarik Skubal and other pitching targets.