Our Town: Our Future
About Our Town
According to recent census data, the Town of Eagle has a population of 3,498 and is approximately 33.9 square miles. We have about 1,351 households.
Additional census data Town of Eagle census data summary
Housing affordability is a significant challenge with the median owner-occupied home valued at $436,200 in the Town. Based on recent census data, that is double the Wisconsin level, and 25% higher than Waukesha County.
Most homes are single unit owner-occupied so there is very limited rental and multi-family home access. While we need to preserve our rural housing base, we must also work to see that more affordable housing is available to our residents including long term retired and elderly population base.
A recent report from the WI Policy Forum, Building Blocks: Understanding and Responding to Waukesha County Housing Affordability Challenges (July 2023) reports that Waukesha County has some of the highest housing costs in the State.Even higher than Dane County.
- Housing costs are rising faster than inflation
- Low housing inventory for sale
- Few affordable rental opportunities
- Zoning regulations may limit a variety of housing options and impact affordability
Land protection is important and Eagle is unique in the amount of tax-exempt land within the Town.. About 50% of the land in our Town is owned by the State and other tax-exempt organizations.
This is a strength for environmental land protection but is also a challenge for the Town when it comes to revenue that supports Town services
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Economic Sustainability/Town Revenue
The Town receives money as revenue from property taxes, some state revenue such as state aid for road repair, charging for some services like garbage/recycling, and a small amount from applications etc.
Town budgets are getting tighter.
- Property tax increases are capped by the State (State levy limit)
- State aid not keeping pace with inflation
- Cost of road repair increasing
- Cost of capital equipment such as plow trucks, fire trucks and ambulances are very high
Property tax income is the primary way our Town pays for services.The Town Board must work with our State elected officials and other key stakeholders including exploring and leveraging more grant opportunities. To find out more about the Town budget visit the Town of Eagle website
The budget for the Town for 2024 is just under 2 million at $1,934,234.
Controlling our Costs
The Town works hard to control our expenses. One way is to share services. We have a joint municipal building with the Village of Eagle. Fire and rescue services are also shared through the Kettle Moraine Fire Dept and includes the Village, Town and North Prairie. Recreation services are also shared
The library portion of the budget is supported by the Village and Town and also obtains support through the Waukesha County Bridges Library System.
Our Town does not have a police department. There is one County Sheriff officer that provides support to the Town of Eagle and several other communities.
Economic sustainability is an important issue. We all want low taxes but we need to maintain our services. Understanding our revenue opportunities and controlling our expenses is important. The Town needs to update our development plan.for smart growth and economic sustainability for our future.
Check out our Environmental Treasures
Eagle has some significant treasures that I hope you explore. I have listed a few with links below.
One of the largest outdoor museums in the US with 600 acres and approximately 60 historic, restored homes and farms.
Kettle Moraine Forest- Southern Unit
Great hiking and other resources
Newell and Ann Meyer Nature Preserve
Newell and Ann Meyer donated their 374 acres to the Nature Conservancy. It is a beautiful preserve with oak savannas, woodlands and wetlands.
A 279 acre impounded lake which includes a WI DNR boat launch
Nearby- Lulu Lake and Mukwonago River Unit
Other Gems
Our Future
We need to proactively preserve and build on our unique strengths. As we look to our future, it is important to update our comprehensive plan.
The Town needs a sustainable tax base while keeping Eagle’s rural atmosphere and way of life intact. More emphasis should be placed on business development such as access to a local grocery store and other needed business services.
The Board should create, attract, and expand meaningful business development to provide local jobs and opportunities that contribute to the economic well-being of our community while preserving our environment.
How can you help
- Learn more about our Town.
- Explore our Treasures.
- Engage in the conversation.
- Help us develop a shared vision for our future
- Help us create, attract, and develop meaningful business opportunities.
- .Together we can shape our future and position the Town for long term success