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Steve Taylor and Kristen Wilhelm Dismiss Residents — But the Questions Remain

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By Dr. Richard A. Busalacchi Franklin Community News Former Alderman Kristen Wilhelm and election campaign member for the Nelson re-election campaign post titled “Residents Deserve the Full Picture” claims that misinformation surrounded the February 16 Joint Review Board (JRB) meeting and portrays former Mayor Steve Olson as grandstanding and divisive. If residents deserve the full picture, then it is important to address what was actually said — and what was not. Clarification: Contrary to statements made by Kristen Wilhelm, Olson made no statements at the Joint Review Board (JRB) meeting. The comments referenced were not made by Olson.  Statements asking that the agenda be suspended to allow for public comment were made at the beginning of the meeting and at the end of the meeting by former Mayor Tom Taylor. No One Was Confused About the Agenda Wilhelm asserts that “misinformation was widely distributed” mischaracterizing the JRB meeting as a public hearing. Residents u...
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Mayor Nelson Faces Transparency Questions as TID 10 Debate Intensifies and Public Comment Is Denied

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By Dr. Richard A. Busalacchi Franklin Community News Franklin, WI — Franklin’s debate over the former Sentry property intensified this week as the Joint Review Board (JRB) convened tonight, February 16th to review the proposed creation of Tax Incremental District No. 10 — now formally identified in the revised Plan Commission agenda as a “Blighted Area District.” Approximately 40 residents filled the Franklin City Hall hearing room Monday evening, reflecting growing public attention surrounding the proposal. Among those present were former Mayors Tom Taylor and Steve Olson, mayoral candidate Basil Ryan, former Alderperson Kristin Wilhelm, Mayor John Nelson, Director of Administration Kelly Hersh, City Attorney Jessie Wesolowski, Alderman Nabil Salous, Alderwoman Michelle Eichmann and former City Planner Kaniewski. The Joint Review Board consists of: Sally Smits , Public Member John Regetz , Franklin Economic Development Director (elected Chair for the meeting) Celia Benton , ...
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Former Sentry Property Labeled “Blighted” as Agenda Is Revised — Residents Question Apartment Shift, $15 Million TIF, and the Future of “Downtown Franklin

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fa By Dr. Richard A. Busalacchi Franklin Community News Franklin, WI — Fr anklin residents were once presented with a vision of a vibrant, mixed-use “Downtown Franklin” at 76th and Rawson — a destination with retail storefronts, restaurants, public gathering spaces, seasonal events, and a walkable community focal point similar to Oak Creek’s Drexel Town Square.  The current proposal looks markedly different. " This massive development proposal would create a new downtown in Franklin" . Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Article May 18, 2023. Instead of a retail-forward community center, the updated site plan shows approximately 300 apartments, structured parking, and limited new commercial frontage — prompting many residents to question whether the project still reflects what was originally presented. At the same time, the proposal is advancing under a Tax Incremental District (TID) structure that could redirect roughly $15 million in future tax increment over the next 27 ...
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Franklin Community News Surpasses 101,000 Views — Here Are the Top 10 Most-Read Articles

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By Dr. Richard A. Busalacchi Franklin Community News Franklin Community News, first published in October 2023, has officially surpassed 101,000 readership views — a major milestone for independent local journalism in our community. What began as a commitment to transparency and accountability has grown into a widely read source for in-depth reporting on local government, public policy, and civic leadership. More importantly, the reporting has made a direct impact by providing residents with information that directly affects Franklin politics, public policy decisions, and voters. From investigative reporting and open records disclosures to election coverage and public accountability stories, Franklin Community News has focused on delivering factual, documented information that empowers residents to make informed decisions about their community and its leadership. Below are the Top 10 most-read articles since launch: 🔟 Top 10 Most-Read Articles #1 ⚖️ Franklin Mayor John N...
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