MADISON, Wis. -- A new report says local Wisconsin governments should find ways to consolidate services to save money.

The study from the Local Government Institute, a coalition of local government associations, said collaboration enables governments to spread capital costs over a larger tax base and share equipment. It also encourages cost controls to ensure the collaboration retains value.

The report adds that local leaders must see clear fiscal benefits, a common need and trust each other for collaboration to work.

The study calls for creating legislative committees to research collaboration and intergovernmental councils where local leaders can trade ideas and link to regional economic development groups.

Members of the group include the League of Wisconsin Municipalities, the Wisconsin Counties Association, the Wisconsin Towns Association and the Alliance of Cities.