Despite the FBI probe into Gov. Jim Doyle's recently indicted donor, the state Senate plans on voting next week on reconfirming Transportation Secretary Frank Busalacchi.
Busalacchi's relationship with Dennis Troha, the Kenosha businessman who allegedly illegally donated $200,000 to Doyle, is under investigation. FBI agents are investigating Busalacchi's role in settling a tax bill for companies owned by Troha.
State Senate Minority leader Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, wrote a letter to state Senate Majority leader Judy Robson, D-Beloit, asking that Busalacchi's nomination be sent back to the Senate Transportation Committee. This would allow a public hearing to be held and questions to be answered before a Senate vote. A public hearing was not held prior to the executive session on the nomination.
""In light of the FBI's investigation into the department's actions, it is incumbent upon the Senate to allow members of the committee and the general public an opportunity to ask questions about these events,"" Fitzgerald said in the letter.
""One of the most important duties of the state Senate is to review a governor's nominees to head state agencies,"" he said. ""This duty is intended to be a serious evaluation of the Governor's appointments and not just a ceremonial rubber stamp.""
State Sen. Mile Ellis, R-Neenah, said he is ""troubled"" by the report and wants more disclosure through a public hearing.
