BONDUEL, WI- State Representative Peter Schmidt has voted in favor of critical legislation aimed at securing funding for the maintenance and rehabilitation of American Family Field. The stadium, which has been an iconic part of Wisconsin’s sports landscape for nearly a quarter of a century, is set to receive necessary updates and improvements thanks to this initiative.

Representative Schmidt emphasized the significant benefits of this legislation for Wisconsin residents, highlighting that it does not impose new taxes on the state’s citizens. He stated, “This is a good deal for Wisconsin, and there will be no new taxes on Wisconsinites. This isn’t a handout or a bailout, and the Milwaukee Brewers will contribute an additional $100 million. The state’s investment in the stadium will be funded by taxes generated from team salaries.”

Key elements of the legislation include:

1. Increased Contributions from the Milwaukee Brewers: Under the new lease agreement, the Milwaukee Brewers will significantly boost their financial contributions. This includes an extra $50 million in team capital and an additional $50 million through annual rent payments of $1,851,852 over the course of a twenty-seven-year lease. In total, the Brewers will contribute over $140 million, more than doubling their current rent payments.
2. Enhanced Revenue Sharing: The state’s new shared revenue formula, which was passed earlier this year, will result in increased revenue for counties and municipalities in the stadium district. Sales tax revenues in the district currently exceed $225 million.
3. Long-Term Financial Benefits: “In 2025, Shawano County will see an estimated $42,000 in new revenue, Brown County an additional $410,000, and Outagamie County an extra $279,000. Each county will receive half of that amount in 2024,” noted Rep. Schmidt. These additional payments will continue annually through 2050, ensuring ongoing financial benefits for the region.
4. Economic Impact: This legislation extends the Brewers’ lease in Milwaukee until 2050. The Legislative Fiscal Bureau projects that the state will generate nearly $700 million in income tax and direct sales tax revenue at the ballpark over the lease’s duration. By keeping the Brewers in Wisconsin, the state is poised to gain nearly $300 million.

Representative Schmidt underscored the importance of retaining the Brewers, stating, “If the Brewers leave, those numbers will be zero, and the entire state will lose. That is the big difference in this new lease deal and why I chose to support the bill.”

This legislation not only secures the future of American Family Field but also promises significant economic benefits for the state. It stands as a testament to the commitment of Wisconsin’s leaders to preserve a cherished institution while promoting fiscal responsibility.