Investments in transportation, housing projects included in proposed 2024 Milwaukee County budget

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Thanks to an increased sales tax, Milwaukee County is projected to have a $31.6 million surplus next year. 

On Thursday, County Executive David Crowley outlined funding priorities in his 2024 recommended budget address. 

His budget includes $4 million to affordable housing projects, an additional $1.6 million to mental health services and an extra $3 million to parks services, including 18 new full-time positions with the Parks Department. 

Transportation would get the largest funding boost, with Crowley proposing $16 million increase to support growing services. 

Even more funding will go towards security.

"We must ensure that all riders feel safe and comfortable, as well as our operators, and to this end, we are investing an additional $1.3 million for transport security efforts," said Crowley. 

Crowley also announced all county workers will get a 2% raise and will pay less into pensions, creating an increase in take-home pay of 4.7%. 

The budget isn't final and will need to be approved by the county board.