Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Talkin' Waukesha

The City of Waukesha has adopted a new zoning code, marking a major step forward in modernizing regulations that guide development throughout the community.

In our latest podcast episode, learn why the update was needed, what has changed, and how the new code will help support redevelopment, housing opportunities, business growth, and thoughtful community planning for years to come.

The Crisis Response Unit (CRU) is a co-response team consisting of one crisis clinician from the Waukesha County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and one specialty-focused Crisis Intervention (CIT)-trained Waukesha Police Department (WKPD) patrol officer. Their joint focus is on sustainable, solutions-based community crisis outreach that is both response and prevention focused. While law enforcement is often the first call made to address mental health concerns, a joint response with local crisis services is most effective. CRU may coordinate voluntary transports for mental health treatment, facilitate safety plans, and/or approve emergency detentions, such as Chapter 51.15s or 51.45s, among other services. This unit operates Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., except major holidays. For hours outside of CRU’s shift, crisis calls may be answered by other CIT-certified officers working in patrol who contact and work alongside Waukesha County DHHS Crisis Services. The WKPD prioritizes CIT training for all patrol officers to better meet the needs of their community.

This month, we're talking summer fire safety with the City's Fire Marshal. From smokers and outdoor fires to fireworks and more, he covers common risks and how to prevent them. Drawing on 25+ years of firsthand experience, he shares the real dangers he’s seen and how you can stay safe.

#TalkinWaukesha #FireSafety #WaukeshaFire

Hear from our new Mayor Alicia Halvensleben in our latest Talkin' Waukesha episode. She discusses her role as Mayor, what she loves about her Waukesha and her vision for the future.

Tune in to our latest podcast episode as we sit down with Mayor Reilly to reflect on his 12 years of service to the City of Waukesha.

This month, hear from local historian John Schoenknecht, as he shares stories of the City's past on the latest podcast episode. This year, the City is celebrating 130 years of incorporation!

This month, we’re featuring our City Clerk, Katie Panella and Administrative Assistant, Mollie Schenk as they talk about Elections. Learn more about how the election process works and how the City is now using Badger Books, an electronic poll book.

Paying property taxes is not fun for anyone, but have you ever learned how the City actually builds its budget or plans for future expenses? In this podcast episode, the City Administrator and Finance Director walk through the City’s budgeting process, how decisions are made, and what it means for Waukesha’s future. Listen to learn more about how your tax dollars are planned and put to work.

A fire generally grows about 10 times in size every 30 seconds! Cooking fires are the most common home fire. As we head into the holiday season, make sure you are prepared to cook and decorate safely. Hear directly from the Fire Marshal with the Waukesha Fire Department on how to keep your celebrations safe this season!

Detective Lukas Hallmark joins us to discuss fraud prevention, common scams targeting residents, and how you can protect yourself and your community.

Fall leaf collection will start on Monday, October 27. New this year, crews will start in the Southwest portion of the City (Fox Lake Village and River Hills areas) and will work counterclockwise through the City.

To help residents plan, we are sharing the week your area’s leaves will be collected. Please have your leaves out on the terrace by the Monday of your scheduled week. You can look up your home’s week of collection and track the daily collection progress on our online interactive map. Crews will pass every home twice during this year’s leaf collection season.

As students head back to the classroom, safety always remains a top priority.

The Waukesha Police Department is proud to have six full-time School Resource Officers (SROs) dedicated to supporting our schools. Their work goes far beyond safety — they mentor, guide, and connect with students every day.

In our latest Talkin’ Waukesha podcast, we sit down with two of our SROs to talk about their important role — from creating a safe learning environment to building trust and positive relationships with students.

We sit down with Chris Janet and Tami Evanoff from the Waukesha Downtown Business Association to talk all things WDBA. From the Farmers Market to Friday Night Live, Chris and Tami share what it takes to keep downtown vibrant and thriving. Hear about upcoming community events, the importance of shopping local, and how the DBA helps shape the downtown experience for residents and visitors alike.

We dig into the roots of the city's urban forest with Forestry Supervisor Aaron Lehnert. From managing thousands of public trees to planting for the future, Aaron shares the ins and outs of what it takes to keep Waukesha green, healthy, and growing.

We’re joined by the Director of the Waukesha Civic Band, Michael Poytinger, to celebrate their 81st season! From behind-the-scenes rehearsal stories to picking the perfect medley, we explore what makes this summer tradition so special.

In this episode, we’re joined by City Assessor, Sam Walker to explain the property assessment process. Sam breaks down how assessments are done, why they matter, and how they impact taxes and city services. Whether you’re a longtime homeowner or new to the area, this conversation offers clear insights into one of the city’s most important behind-the-scenes roles.

In this episode, we talk with Fire Department Historian Dan Carstens to explore the rich history of the Waukesha Fire Department. Dan shares fascinating stories from the past, highlights key moments in the department’s evolution, and explains why preserving this history matters for the future. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the legacy behind the sirens, this episode offers a unique look into Waukesha’s firefighting heritage.

In this episode, we sit down with Director of Public Works, Alex Damien, and Deputy Director of Public Works & City Engineer, Brandon Schwenn, to discuss the vital role Public Works plays in our community. From infrastructure improvements to snow removal and future city projects, we cover how their team keeps the city running smoothly. Tune in for an inside look at the challenges and innovations shaping our city's future!

Hear from the Waukesha Public Library Director, Bruce Gay on our latest podcast episode!He shares about the transition of Library services over the years and some of the neat things to check out at the Waukesha Public Library. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the past, present and future of your library!

In this episode, Andrew and Anthony speak with Waukesha’s new Fire Chief Robert Goplin. Hear about his journey to becoming chief, his goals for the department, and his commitment to keeping the community safe.

Executive Director, AJ Simms and Vice President, Dave Molenda discuss what a Chamber of Commerce does for the City of Waukesha and what events they have planned for the year.

Chief Dan Thompson sits down and discusses his day-to-day tasks, his career history, and what drew him to become a police chief.

In this episode, we interview the Dan Duchniak, the General Manager of the Waukesha Water Utility as he reflects on the City's transition to Lake Michigan water one year later.

The Prairie Home Cemetery is celebrating 175 years this year! Listen in to learn more about the Prairie Home Cemetery Director Karen Richards and what's upcoming at the Cemetery.

We sit down with Common Council President Alicia Halvensleben to discuss her journey in public service, her vision for the community, and the challenges and opportunities she sees for the future. Tune in to hear her insights on leadership, civic engagement, and the importance of local government.

Join us as we chat with Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow about his leadership, the challenges and opportunities in Waukesha County, and his vision for the community. Get insights into local government and community development in this engaging episode.

This month, listen in to learn more about our Community Development Director, Jennifer Andrews. Jennifer shares about upcoming projects and the how the development process works in the City.

Today we interview City Administrator, Anthony "Tony" Brown. Tony discusses Waukesha's new Strategic Plan along with how things have been going after his first six months on the job.

This month, listen in to learn more about Joanna Adamicki, Special Events coordinator. Learn what goes into planning these events and what's ahead for this summer!

This month, listen in to learn about Fire Chief Steve Howard ahead of his retirement in May. He reflects on his career at the Waukesha Fire Department, how the department has changed over time, and what lies ahead for the future of the Department.

For our first episode, we sit down with Mayor Shawn Reilly! We learn about what the typical day of a mayor looks like, his background and upbringing, his secrets to his amazing BBQ, and discover who Shawn Reilly is outside of City Hall.