Waukesha Mayor-Elect Discusses Plans, Learning from Predecessor

Alicia Halvensleben joins 'Point Taken' to talk priorities, working with outgoing Mayor Reilly

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:35pm

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A serene, painterly depiction of a municipal building or water tower in Waukesha, Wisconsin, bathed in warm, golden light and deep shadows, conveying a sense of civic pride and community investment.The incoming Waukesha mayor's focus on water quality issues reflects the enduring importance of local leadership in addressing community priorities.Today in Milwaukee

In a segment on the 'Point Taken' radio show, newly elected Waukesha Mayor Alicia Halvensleben discussed her plans for the city, including learning from outgoing Mayor Sean Reilly and focusing on key priorities like bringing water to the city. The conversation also touched on broader issues of trust in science and institutions, particularly around public health guidance.

Why it matters

Waukesha's mayoral transition represents an important moment for the city, as a new leader takes office with the opportunity to build on the work of the previous administration. Halvensleben's priorities and approach to working with her predecessor will shape Waukesha's direction in the coming years.

The details

During the interview, Halvensleben discussed her plans to work closely with outgoing Mayor Sean Reilly to ensure a smooth transition. She highlighted bringing water to the city as a key priority, reflecting Waukesha's longstanding challenges around water access and quality. The conversation also touched on broader issues of trust in institutions and scientific guidance, with the hosts and callers debating factors that contribute to declining public trust.

  • Halvensleben was recently elected as the new mayor of Waukesha.
  • She is set to take office and succeed outgoing Mayor Sean Reilly.

The players

Alicia Halvensleben

The newly elected mayor of Waukesha, Wisconsin, who discussed her plans and priorities for the city in an interview on the 'Point Taken' radio show.

Sean Reilly

The outgoing mayor of Waukesha, who Halvensleben plans to work closely with during the transition.

Steve Scaffidi

The co-host of the 'Point Taken' radio show, who discussed issues of trust in science and institutions with Halvensleben.

Kristin Brey

The co-host of the 'Point Taken' radio show, who also participated in the discussion with Halvensleben.

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What’s next

Halvensleben is set to be sworn in as the new mayor of Waukesha in the coming weeks, at which point she will begin implementing her agenda and working with the outgoing administration to ensure a smooth transition.

The takeaway

Waukesha's mayoral transition represents an important moment for the city, as a new leader takes office with the opportunity to build on the work of the previous administration. Halvensleben's priorities, including a focus on water access, and her approach to working with her predecessor will shape Waukesha's direction in the coming years.