Rep. Dana Wachs asks for greater notice, media scrutiny, input from public on creation of the WTCS/UWS Merger Work Group.

MADISON – On Friday, August 14, Rep. Dana Wachs (D-Eau Claire) sent a letter to Rep. Terry Katsma (R-Oostburg) requesting that meetings of the WTCS/UWS Merger Work Group be properly noticed, open to the public and media, and include participation from Democratic members of the Assembly Committee on Colleges and Universities.

“Like many of my legislative colleagues as well as concerned citizens throughout Wisconsin, I was surprised to hear about this work group,” said Rep. Wachs, ranking Democratic member of the Assembly Colleges and Universities Committee. “The potential for such a merger deserves much more than closed door meetings with a few people. Public input, media scrutiny, and participation from both sides of the aisle should be the cornerstones of any legislative discussion.”

The creation of the WTCS/UWS Merger Work Group was recently announced, and the first informal meeting was held on Wednesday, August 12. The work group, which is chaired by Rep. Katsma, also includes Reps. Dave Murphy (R-Greenville), Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan), Scott Allen (R-Waukesha) and Dan Knodl (R-Germantown).

“While we may have differing opinions on the merits or details of such a merger, one thing that that we should all agree upon is the importance of open, honest discussions about legislation that will affect Wisconsinites,” added Wachs. “I have requested that these hearings be given greater public notice, be open to the public and the media, and include Democrats who serve on the Assembly Committee on Colleges and Universities. I welcome further discussion on this issue. As an elected representative and the ranking Democratic member of the committee, I respectfully request that the concerns raised in my letter be given the consideration that they deserve.”