The long-term viability of racing at the historic Milwaukee Mile depends on the decisions made by state leaders, the Wisconsin State Fair Park Board, and its executive leadership. By respectfully reaching out to these individuals, you can help ensure that the Milwaukee Mile remains a valued part of Wisconsin’s heritage and future. Thoughtful, constructive messages from supporters demonstrate that the community cares about preserving and investing in the oldest continuously operating speedway in the world, and that continued support for racing at the Mile matters.
Governor's Office
The Governor of Wisconsin plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Wisconsin State Fair Park and the Milwaukee Mile through the appointment of Board members and influence over state funding priorities. While not involved in day-to-day operations, the Governor’s decisions help set the tone for leadership, investment, and long-term direction. This makes strong support from this office critical to sustaining and growing racing at the historic Milwaukee Mile.
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Governor Tony Evers |
Legislators From Surrounding Region
State lawmakers in the Wisconsin State Senate and Wisconsin State Assembly play a critical role in the future of Wisconsin State Fair Park and the Milwaukee Mile through their control of legislation, funding, and oversight. While they don’t manage daily operations of the track, their decisions directly influence investment levels and long-term direction of the facility. This makes their support essential to preserving and strengthening racing at the historic Milwaukee Mile.
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Senator Rob Hutton |
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Representative Angelito Tenorio |
Wisconsin State Fair Park
Board of DirectorsThe Wisconsin State Fair Park Board plays a decisive role in shaping the future of the Milwaukee Mile by controlling the events hosted at the track, approving partnerships with racing series and promoters, and determining how much financial and capital investment is directed toward the facility. Because the Mile operates as part of State Fair Park, the Board’s priorities directly influence how often the track is used, what level of racing it attracts, and whether it remains competitive with modern venues. Ultimately, its decisions on scheduling, funding, and long-term strategy determine whether the Milwaukee Mile continues to grow as a premier racing destination or declines in relevance. |
| John Yingling, Chair |
| Jayme Buttke, Vice Chair |
| Kelly Grebe, Secretary |
| Tim Carpenter, State Senator |
| Howard Marklein, State Senator |
| Christine Sinicki, State Representative |
| Jessie Rodriguea, State Representative |
| Randy Romanski, Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection |
| Anne Sayers, Secretary, Department of Tourism |
| Dan Devine, Mayor, City of West Allis |
| Kallie Jo Coates |
| Susan Crane |
| Paul Ziehler |
Executive Director/Chief Executive OfficerWhile the Board of Directors determines the overall direction of the Milwaukee Mile as part of its broader vision for Wisconsin State Fair Park, the CEO plays a critical role in how that vision is implemented. Through leadership of day-to-day operations, partnerships, and event strategy, the CEO can significantly influence momentum and the overall viability of racing at the track. For example, former State Fair Park Executive Director Rick Frenette (2010–2016) was reported to favor repurposing the racetrack for expanded fair operations rather than prioritizing racing. While not directly attributed to that position, several sections of grandstand seating were removed during his tenure, reflecting a broader decline in support and utilization of the historic facility.
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Joint Legislative Audit Committee
The Joint Legislative Audit Committee provides oversight of the Wisconsin State Fair Park Board by reviewing audits, financial performance, and operational practices. Its role is to ensure the Board is using public resources effectively and operating transparently. In the process it can highlight concerns, recommend changes, or prompt further legislative action if issues are found. While it doesn’t control day-to-day operations or event decisions at the Milwaukee Mile, the findings of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee can indirectly shape the long-term future of the track by holding the Board responsible for how the facility is managed and supported. The Committee has in the past suggested that the track could be redeveloped if no longer profitable.
Senate Members |
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| Eric Wimberger (Co-Chair) |
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| Chris Kapenga |
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| Howard Marklein |
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| Robert Wirch |
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| Melissa Ratcliff |
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Assembly Members |
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| Robert Wittke (Co-Chair) |
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| Daniel Knodl |
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| Mark Born |
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| Sequanna Taylor |
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| Francesca Hong |
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