Basil Ryan, Franklin mayoral candidate, speaks out

Basil Ryan, a candidate for Franklin mayor, stated, "Franklin needs an optimistic future." He stated: "Clearly Franklin needs a plan for development. The goal of 70/30 (70% business/30% residential) is a slogan without a plan. Mayor Olson's leadership lacks the direction to reach 70/30. The current method takes any open space and drops something on it without a community vision. Thinking something is better than nothing is not a plan, it's desperation."

Ryan acknowledged Olson pushes for TIF districts throughout Franklin, using the phrase, 'build it and they will come.' He doesn't inform or bring residents in early enough and listen to their valid concerns before he commits to developers. He is then met with resident opposition when the zoning changes degrade their home values. Olson has continued his same strategy since the 1990's, which has left Franklin behind in comparison to neighboring Oak Creek, Muskego, Greenfield and Greendale. Ryan points out the businesses are leaving Franklin for the surrounding communities. Ryan believes Franklin won't attract new business if it can't keep the businesses it has.