State of the City

Watch Wauwatosa's State of the City

Event Highlights

Mayor Dennis McBride addresses crowd of 170+ at Wauwatosa's State of the City

Mayor Dennis McBride said, "Tonight, I’m going to ask you to do something great: reach out to your friends in the Wisconsin Legislature and ask them to help us, and all Wisconsin cities, to meet our financial challenges. Given the makeup of the Legislature, it will be especially helpful if business leaders reach out. Ask our legislators to revise our state’s municipal financing structure.

This is not a partisan issue. It is a blessing to be a nonpartisan elected official, because we don’t have to be distracted by party politics. Our mission in city government is solely to provide good services. I often remind residents – and legislators – that “there’s no Democratic way to collect the garbage and no Republican way to plow the snow.”

Let’s all work together to make sure that all our communities can maintain the city services we need to keep Wisconsin competitive – regionally, nationally, and internationally.

Wauwatosa Will Welcome Wisconsin's First Thomas Dambo Troll

Beth Gleesing, the city's tourism specialist, shared that something BIG is coming to Wauwatosa - Wisconsin's first Thomas Dambo Troll. Learn more.

Wauwatosa’s tourism helps create places and moments that make people say, “You have to see this.” These experiences lead to real results. Last year, the Wauwatosa Christkindlmarkt alone brought $1.8 million in economic impact to Wauwatosa. That’s local hotels, restaurants, and shops seeing real results from a season of joy and celebration and real people experiencing what Wauwatosa has to offer.

Learn more about our troll

Dave Simpson stands in front of a podium

New 100% Grant Funded Park - Firefly Grove Park

Director of Public Works Dave Simpson talks about 100% grant funded park and $5 million renovation of the Muellner Building.

Mark your calendar for May 28, 2025 for a grand opening of Firefly Grove Park.

Fun Fact - Wauwatosa's Population Doubles During the Day

During the day, our population doubles, making Wauwatosa a community of over 100,000 people and the 4th largest city in Wisconsin, just behind Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay.

We are home to the state’s leading medical center. We have some of the most unique and beloved small businesses and restaurants, not to mention our leading regional shopping centers. Why? Wauwatosa is the center of the Milwaukee metro area.

Health + Social Connection

The Wauwatosa Health Department is investing in improved social connection and mental health outcomes for our community – and they are making a significant impact.

Since starting the program Tosa Tech Time in 2024, the Wauwatosa Health Department has connected with over 800 older adults and answered their questions about using phones, laptops, or tablets. The best part? Their teachers are local high school and college student volunteers. These intergenerational pairs not only learn from each other and enjoy great conversation but are experiencing improved human connection.