Public Meetings - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The Public Safety and Health Committee of the City of Milwaukee convened on July 2, 2026, at 9:07 AM in Room 301-B of City Hall, chaired by Ald. Scott P. Spiker. All five committee members were present: Ald. Peter Burgelis, Ald. Larresa Taylor, Ald. Sharlen P. Moore, and Ald. Mark Chambers Jr. The meeting covered 17 agenda items, including routine approvals, appointments to the Safety and Civic Commission and Fire and Police Commission, grants for public health, electric scooter safety regulations, dangerous animal ordinances, and emergency preparedness. The meeting adjourned at 12:13 PM. Consent Calendar - File 260279 – Ordinance relating to parking controls. Recommended for passage unanimously (5-0). - File 260280 – Ordinance relating to traffic controls. Recommended for passage unanimously (5-0). - File 252141 – Appointment of John Fletcher to the Safety and Civic Commission. Recommended for confirmation unanimously (5-0) after brief testimony from the appointee. - File 260246 – Resolution authorizing lead hazard abatement agreements. Recommended for adoption unanimously (5-0). - File 260256 – Resolution accepting the 2026-2027 Evaluation of Molecular Detection Methods for Genital Ulcer Disease Grant ($40,000 from APHL). Recommended for adoption unanimously (5-0). - File 260284 – Resolution accepting the 2026-2027 Wisconsin Well Woman Program grant. Recommended for adoption and referral to Finance & Personnel Committee unanimously (5-0). - File 260367 – Ordinance relating to exception street parking (removing alternate side parking in a dense neighborhood). Recommended for passage unanimously (5-0). - File 260369 – Substitute ordinance relating to dangerous and exotic animals. Recommended for passage unanimously (5-0) after discussion with DNS. The ordinance removes breed-specific language, defines exotic animals, and focuses on behavior-based dangerous animal criteria. - File 250758 – Communication on 2025/26 activities of City Hall Campus Emergency Preparedness Committee. Recommended for placing on file unanimously (5-0) after a presentation by Fire Chief Aaron Lipski and City Clerk Jim Owczarski detailing 26 completed tasks out of 32, with ongoing work. Discussion Items - Reappointment of Byron Marshall Jr. to Safety and Civic Commission (File 251353): Held to the call of the chair (5-0) as the appointee was not present. - Reappointment of Dana World-Patterson to Board of Fire and Police Commissioners (File 260232): Extensive discussion on her five-year term, challenges with Act 12 changes (shifting FPC from policymaking to advisory), community engagement, police pursuit policy, and the balance of independence. The motion to recommend confirmation passed 4-0-1 (Ald. Taylor abstained). - Reappointment of LaNelle Ramey to Board of Fire and Police Commissioners (File 260233): Similar discussion on independence, community listening, and the role of FPC post-Act 12. Recommended for confirmation 4-0-1 (Ald. Taylor abstained). - Electric Scooter Safety (Files 260340, 260349, 260365): A series of items following a serious scooter accident on MLK Drive. Discussion included rampant sidewalk riding, geofencing limitations, enforcement challenges, and the need for operator accountability. The communication from DPW was held; an ordinance to increase penalties for sidewalk riding (from $10-20 to $100-200) was recommended for passage after Ald. Burgelis withdrew a substitute that would have added penalties up to $1,000 for riders and $10,000 for the company. A resolution to establish a 5 mph speed limit in Zone 1 of the 4th Aldermanic District was held for further fine-tuning. The committee also learned that the contract with Lime was extended to 2027 without committee review, prompting Ald. Bauman to announce a future file to terminate and renegotiate. - Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Fast Forward Grant (File 260351): Held to the call of the chair (5-0) for more time. - Light Duty Vehicles for Medical Runs (File 260381): Held to the call of the chair (5-0) as the fire department needed extra time. Key Outcomes - Appointments confirmed: John Fletcher (Safety and Civic Commission) by unanimous vote. Dana World-Patterson and LaNelle Ramey (Fire and Police Commission) each confirmed 4-0-1 (Ald. Taylor abstaining on both). - Scooter penalty ordinance: Recommended for passage (5-0) with fines increased to $100-$200 for sidewalk riding. The substitute adding operator penalties was withdrawn. - Scooter communication and speed zone: Held for further discussion. The committee expressed intent to bring Lime representatives to a future meeting and to consider renegotiating the contract. - Dangerous animals ordinance: Recommended for passage (5-0) with updated definitions and behavior-based criteria. - Emergency preparedness communication: Placed on file (5-0) after presentation; 26 of 32 tasks completed, with a final report due September 30, 2026.

The Milwaukee Fire and Police Commission (FPC) held its regular meeting on July 2, 2026, at 4:36 PM in City Hall, Room 301-B. All nine commissioners were present. The meeting included extensive public comment, approval of routine personnel and administrative actions, reports on community engagement and physical readiness testing, and a new standard operating instruction for school resource officers. Closed session was held to consider personnel matters. The meeting adjourned at 8:20 PM. Consent Calendar - FPC212596 – Resolution approving the June 18, 2026, meeting minutes. Adopted by general consent. - FPC212597 – Appointment to Forensic Identification Processor position within MPD. Adopted by general consent. - FPC212598 – Appointment to Intelligence Analyst position within MPD. Adopted by general consent. - FPC212599 – Job announcement bulletin for Business Maintenance Supervisor (MPD). Adopted by general consent. - FPC212600 – Job announcement bulletin for HVAC Maintenance Technician (MPD). Adopted by general consent. - FPC212601 – Job announcement bulletin for Human Resources Supervisor (MPD). Adopted by general consent. - FPC212602 – Eligible list for Management Accountant Senior within Department of Emergency Communications (DEC). Adopted by general consent. Public Comments & Testimony Twenty speakers addressed the commission, most concerning the Milwaukee Police Department’s collaboration with Lockheed Martin and its subsidiary Derco Aerospace. Key points: - Heba Mohammad (Milwaukee for Palestine) presented a FOIA request showing 167 pages of email exchanges (over 130 emails in one year) between MPD and Lockheed Martin. She stated that MPD initiated 42% of the emails, shared information about activists, and did not question Lockheed Martin’s intelligence gathering, which misidentified an unaffiliated person. She demanded an investigation into gifts, donations, and bribes; a ban on deadly exchanges (training with foreign governments, especially Israel); and limits on political surveillance. - Ihsan Atta (business owner, taxpayer) argued that MPD and the Southeastern Wisconsin Threat Analysis Center are functioning as a private intelligence service for Lockheed Martin, weaponizing public resources. He called for a full independent investigation, total public disclosure of records, and a ban on police participation in surveillance for private corporations. - Galen Michel (Wisconsin Bail Out the People Movement) expressed outrage and reiterated demands for a ban on deadly exchanges. - Kaye Lafond (journalist) who conducted the records request described fear after interviewing police, who told her they do not question others’ intelligence gathering. She urged the commission to choose people over corporations. - Elleiri Extence (Kilborne Town resident) noted that MPD offered advice to Derco on how to press trespass charges against protesters, calling it a betrayal of neutrality. - Kaelyn Arlt (Code Pink, Milwaukee) pointed out that MPD protects Derco, which maintains fighter jets used in Gaza, while protesters are surveilled. She demanded investigations into gifts and information sharing. - Ashley Doelger stated that peaceful protesters are being stalked while Derco profits from war crimes, and called MPD complicit. - Tiffany Stark (social worker, community activist) shared her own experience of being profiled and placed on an FBI target list in 2021. She discussed the upcoming July 14 Common Council vote on vehicle pursuit policy recommendations, urging commissioners to contact alders and draft a summary letter linking FPC meetings to reports. She also thanked Commissioner Bree Spencer for her service. - Jennifer Vollsteat (Milwaukee for Palestine) raised concerns about license plate reader data shared by Lockheed Martin with MPD, and about Chief Norman’s training trip to Israel. She requested a FOIA request for records from February 2025 to present. - Rosella (resident, taxpayer) expressed concern over the amount of intelligence collected on regular people exercising legal protest rights. - Stephanie highlighted that FPC is the only institutional force protecting residents from surveillance harm, and asked that meeting times be moved from 4:30 PM to allow more public participation. - Ned Littlefield (6th Aldermanic District resident) described the December 7, 2025 protest at Derco, noting the disproportionate police presence at Derco property versus on the street. He questioned the allocation of resources and asked whether the commission would enforce the city ordinance requiring ICE agents to not wear masks during detentions. - Andrew G. criticized the commission for failing to suspend the Flock ALPR system after documented misuse by an officer, and argued that police cannot be reformed. - Shana G. (citizen) shared that her father, a researcher of assassinations, was surveilled until his death. She called for firing the Fraternal Order of Police if they oppose the commission’s oversight, and urged the commission to find a security partner that aligns with public safety. - Julie Hueller Curcio (virtually) agreed with previous speakers, noted that multiple international organizations have recognized Israel’s actions as genocide, and asked the commission to compel the chair to put the chief’s training trip on a future agenda for detailed discussion. - Carlos Dixon questioned who shapes decisions in Milwaukee, citing the mayor’s delegation to Jerusalem, the chief’s IDF training, and foundation grants that support Israel. He urged the commission to track influence, not just identity. - Maya Lorenz (first-time attendee) stated that MPD has allowed itself to be purchased by Lockheed Martin, and raised concerns about facial recognition technology being weaponized against activists. She called for the relationship to be severed and investigated. - Ben Slowey (local reporter, concerned citizen) described the Defense Industry Conference (DIBCon) in Milwaukee, where war profiteers discussed profits. He noted that the U.S. spends $900 billion per day on the war in Iran, which could fund 87,000 houses or 400,000 nurses’ salaries. He called the MPD-Derco collusion a betrayal. - Valeria Taylor (attorney, citizen) raised a neighborhood issue: a basketball hoop in the alley behind her home causing damage to her new fence. She asked the commission and MPD to enforce the ordinance against playing ball in alleys and to conduct a general notification before enforcement. Discussion Items 10. PLECET National Conference Debrief – Community Outreach Coordinator Carlos Martinez Rivera presented lessons from the 2026 Professionalizing Law Enforcement-Community Engagement Training (PLECET) conference. Key themes: declining public trust, the “Five Ps” framework (Purpose, People, Place, Program, Promotion), involving community partners early, and using AI to support (not replace) engagement. He recommended adopting the Five Ps, identifying community champions, exploring multilingual platforms, and using the Council of Criminal Justice AI decision framework. Commissioners supported the framework and asked about integrating MPD, MFD, and DEC; creating a shared vision; and preparing accessible materials for alders on vehicle pursuit policy. The communication was placed on file. 11. Physical Readiness Test (PRT) Update – Executive Director Leon Todd reported that the request for a waiver from LESB standards was denied. As an alternative, for the July 11-12 PRT, candidates who do not pass every event but achieve a “contingent passing score” on a three-point scale will be allowed to move forward in the hiring process conditionally. They must attend at least two MPD fit camps and pass the PRT before or on the first day of the academy. Commissioners praised the creative approach; the communication was placed on file. 12. HR and Business Operations Follow-Up Report – Andrea Knickerbacker (Employee Relations) presented three recommendations: increasing the pay range for a Fire Department Business Finance Manager and for two DEC positions to stay in lockstep with the HR Analyst Senior classification. The resolution was adopted unanimously (9-0). 13. MPD Standard Operating Procedures/School Resource Officer SOI – Assistant Chief Sarno presented a new SOI for the SRO program, required by CALEA accreditation. The SOI is based on the MOU with MPS and the SRO posting. Key points: SROs are not to enforce school disciplinary policies, are to be familiar with MPS codes, and have duties including law enforcement and community referrals. Commissioners asked about data on seclusion/restraint, Miranda rights, strip searching, confiscation of items, and the impact of not assigning officers to specific schools. A fall update presentation was requested. The communication was placed on file. 14. DEC Probation Extensions – Two extensions for Emergency Communications Officer II. Adopted unanimously. 15. Promotion to Court Liaison Officer – Held for closed session interview. After closed session, the promotion was approved unanimously (9-0). 16. Promotions to Crime Analyst II (2) – Approved unanimously (9-0). 17. Appointments to Police Aide (17) – Approved unanimously. 18. Reappointment of Former Police Officer – The chief requested a waiver of Rule 13, Section 1 (requiring former members to have passed probation). The waiver and reappointment were approved unanimously (9-0). 19. Probation Extensions for Police Officer (2) – One officer (JN) was approved immediately; the other (LM) was held for closed session. After closed session, the extension was approved unanimously. 20. Probation Extensions for Police Sergeant (2) – Approved unanimously. 21. Probation Extension for Police Records Specialist III – Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All resolutions and communications were adopted or placed on file as specified, with all votes unanimous (9-0) where recorded. - The commission will implement the Five Ps framework for community engagement and explore the CCJ AI decision framework. - The contingent PRT process will be piloted on July 11-12, 2026, allowing candidates who nearly pass to proceed conditionally with mandatory fit camp attendance. - MPD will provide a fall update on the SRO program, including data on arrests, positive interactions, community referrals, and responses to specific policy questions. - The commission will prepare a summary document for alders regarding vehicle pursuit policy discussions in advance of the July 14 Common Council vote. - Closed session was held to interview a candidate for Court Liaison Officer and a police officer on probation extension; both were approved thereafter.

At a meeting convened at 1:35 PM and adjourned at 1:58 PM, the Community & Economic Development Committee (all five members present) considered five agenda items, including three appointments to Business Improvement Districts, a funding resolution for a back-to-school festival, and a resolution establishing the 2027 federal grant Funding Allocation Plan. The meeting opened with a welcome to ten Common Council youth interns. Youth Intern Introduction - Alderwoman Moore introduced ten youth interns participating in a restructured program that sends interns to every aldermanic district to experience community work beyond office tasks. Interns introduced themselves and shared their goals of learning about city government. Appointments to Business Improvement Districts (Items 1–3) - 260341 – Kristin Kurzka to BID 26: Kurzka, with 22 years of Menomonee Valley redevelopment experience, was recommended for confirmation (5-0). - 260342 – Sandra Armstrong to BID 26: Armstrong, owner of Citywide Facility Solutions, stated her passion for strengthening the commercial district and creating a safer, more vibrant community. Recommended for confirmation (5-0). - 260343 – Deantrium King to BID 37: King, a 14-year Milwaukee resident originally from Chicago, expressed a desire to build connectivity between businesses and residents. Recommended for confirmation (5-0). Resolution – Second District Back to School Festival (Item 4) - 260335 – Resolution appropriating up to $10,000 from the Economic Development Committee Fund: The sponsor was corrected to Ald. Stamper. Ald. Chambers reported the festival will be held Sunday, August 30th, 12:00–4:00 PM at Indigenous People Park (7301 West Courtland Avenue). Last year’s event served over 2,000 families with stuffed book bags, laptops, and calculators; this year will include additional partnerships and bike giveaways. Recommended for adoption (5-0). Resolution – Year 2027 Funding Allocation Plan (Item 5) - 260352 – Resolution relating to the establishment of the Year 2027 Funding Allocation Plan: Vanesa Carmona-Lewis (Associate Director, DOA) presented projected funding: $14.8 million for CDBG, $4.3 million for HOME, $1.3 million for ESG, and $1.5 million for HOPWA, representing a slight decrease from prior years. Two public hearings are scheduled: July 15th at St. Augustine's Preparatory Academy and July 16th at the DPW facility on 35th Street. Ald. Stamper encouraged colleagues to coordinate neighborhood outreach. Recommended for adoption (5-0). Key Outcomes - All three BID appointments were recommended for confirmation by the Common Council. - Both resolutions (Back to School Festival and 2027 Funding Allocation Plan) were recommended for adoption. - All votes were unanimous (5-0).

The Public Works Committee of the City of Milwaukee met on July 1, 2026, at 9:17 AM in City Hall Room 301-B, chaired by Ald. Milele A. Coggs, with members Ald. Lamont Westmoreland, Ald. Robert J. Bauman, Ald. Larresa Taylor, and Ald. Alex Brower (arrived at 10:17 AM). The committee considered 18 agenda items covering assessable and nonassessable public improvements, state highway agreements, appointments, and a detailed operations update from the Department of Public Works (DPW). The meeting adjourned at 11:13 AM. Assessable Public Improvement Projects (Item 1 – File 260289) Overview: Holly Rutenbeck (DPW) explained the special assessment process: bills sent after work completion, 45-day grace period without interest, then 8.5% simple interest per year; assessments over $125 can be paid over 10 years. Several sub‑projects were considered. N. 28th St. (4th District) – Concrete Pavement Reconstruction: Ald. Bauman moved to delete the project and reconsider next year. The motion was approved without objection. W. Cleveland Ave (8th & 11th Districts) – Traffic Calming Speed Humps and Traffic Circles: - Public Testimony: Gregory Rihn (4718 W. Cleveland Ave) opposed, citing concerns about snowplow efficiency, vehicle wear and tear, and potential emergency vehicle delays. John Kolbert (4407 W. Cleveland Ave) supported, reporting extreme speeding up to 65 mph and dangerous road rage. Lauren Cardenas (5110 W. Cleveland Ave) supported, describing five road rage incidents in the past month, including a physical altercation in the street near her children. A legislative aide for Ald. Samarepa (8th District) also spoke in support, noting numerous complaints about reckless driving. - Ald. Burgelis (11th District) expressed support, noting the project affects 194 properties, with an aldermanic survey showing 34 objections (including landlords) and 31 in support. He emphasized that infrastructure is a key leg of the three‑legged stool (enforcement, education, infrastructure). - Vote: Motion to approve by Ald. Bauman. Ald. Coggs abstained. Passed (4‑0‑1). N. 55th St. at W. Garfield Ave (10th District) – Raised Crosswalk: - Public Testimony: Steve Kichenmeister supported the project but requested DPW evaluate signal timing at Lloyd and North Avenue to prevent traffic backups blocking residential driveways. Holly Rutenbeck committed to a follow‑up. - Ald. Moore supported the project. Motion to approve passed without objection. W. Vliet St. (10th District) – Speed Tables and Pinned‑on Islands: - Public Testimony: Rebecca Bailey (5702 W. Vliet) supported, citing benefits for traffic calming. Judson Riggins (5617 W. Vliet) opposed, saying he had not observed high speeds and was concerned about the assessment compared to unresolved lead line replacement. - Jim Schlei noted a poorly attended community meeting and asked for more discussion. - Ald. Taylor moved to hold to the call of the chair. Approved without objection. S. 11th St. (14th District) – Speed Humps: No public testimony. Out of 23 impacted properties, only one opposed. Ald. Dimitrijevic supported. Motion to approve passed without objection. Other Public Improvement Resolutions (Items 2–4) - File 260290 (Substitute): Determined necessary to make assessable improvements; engineering cost $105,000, total $1,975,000. Substituted and recommended for adoption (4‑0, Ald. Brower excused). - File 260291: Nonassessable improvements; engineering cost $100,000, total $100,000. Recommended for adoption (4‑0). - File 260292 (Substitute): Construction of nonassessable improvements; city construction cost $1,472,000, total $1,987,240.17. Substituted and recommended for adoption (4‑0). Honorary Street Name – José A. Olivieri (Item 5 – File 251556) Public Testimony: Beth Ann Heirman testified to Olivieri’s 40 years of service on the United Community Center board, his tenure as board chair for 20 years, and extensive involvement with the Milwaukee Public Library, Milwaukee Art Museum, University of Wisconsin Regents, and other organizations. DPW confirmed the proposal meets specifications (two signs on S. 9th St. between W. Mineral and W. Washington). Ald. Perez supported. Motion to adopt passed (4‑0). Appointments (Items 6, 16, 17) - File 260344 – Rebecca Gries to Board of Harbor Commissioners: Gries, executive director of Milwaukee 7, stated her goal to leverage regional economic development to make the port more competitive nationally. Recommended for confirmation (4‑0). - File 260268 – Reappointment of Ald. Bauman to Public Transportation, Utilities, and Waterways Review Board: Ald. Bauman abstained. Recommended for confirmation (3‑0‑1, with Ald. Bauman abstaining, Ald. Brower excused). - File 260366 – Appointment of Ald. Brower to the same board: Recommended for confirmation (4‑0, Ald. Brower excused). State Highway Agreements (Items 7–11) David Tapia (DPW) presented each item. All were recommended for adoption (4‑0 each, Ald. Brower excused): - N. 76th St. (STH 181): Design engineering $2,700,000 (City $675,000, grantor $2,025,000); real estate $200,000 (City $0). - S. 1st St. (STH 32): Design $2,235,000 (City $558,750); real estate $265,000 (City $0). - I‑43 North‑South Freeway (Halyard St. to Capitol Dr.): Cost decrease of $4,450,000 (City decrease $1,666,500, grantor decrease $2,783,500) due to final estimates and WisDOT taking ownership of signals. - W. National Ave (39th to 1st): Cost decrease of $203,700 overall; grantor share decreased by $2,678,850, City share increased by $2,475,150 due to loss of a federal RAISE grant. Project will proceed with city and state shares. - S. 27th St. (STH 241): Adjustment and seal replacement of 18 sanitary manholes, bioswales, and CUC manhole covers; total cost $164,500 (100% city share). Compliance Report and Agreements (Items 12–15) - File 260315 – CMAR Report: Anthony Jazdzyk (DPW) presented the annual self‑evaluation of the sanitary sewer program for the DNR. Recommended for adoption (4‑0). - File 260319 – 43rd Street Ditch Project: James Washington (DPW) explained the intergovernmental cooperation agreement with MMSD to remove a concrete‑lined channel and replace it with a vegetated channel to slow flows and reduce flooding, similar to the Lincoln Creek project. MMSD leads design and construction; the city will provide design review. Recommended for adoption (4‑0). - File 260320 – Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon: Operating agreement with Badgerland Striders Running Club for the 2026 marathon, half marathon, 5K run/walk. Approved (4‑0). - File 260334 – Driveway Approach (517 W. Layton Ave): Approval for a width greater than 30 feet for a freight company’s remodeling. Approved (4‑0). DPW Operations Status (Item 18 – File 191930) Commissioner Jerrell Kruschke and City Engineer Kevin Muhs provided a comprehensive update: - Potholes: Record 19,270 requests in the first half of 2026 (previous annual record was 16,804); 10,800 resolved (average 6,000 in prior years). Current service lag approximately 25 days as crews prioritize major arterials then residential backlogs. The backlog is being addressed with overtime and crews from other DPW divisions (12–13 crews daily). Long‑term solution is road replacement; many local roads are beyond design life due to historic underinvestment. - Workforce: 264 vacancies department‑wide, including 18 Parking Enforcement Officer (PEO) positions and 46 equipment operator openings. A City Laborer recruitment opens at end of July; city‑funded CDL training is available. Overall vacancy rate reduced from 25.5% (four years ago) to 12%. - PEO Compensation: Each PEO represents roughly $250,000 in annual value/revenue; starting salary $51,000. Discussion on using citation‑by‑mail to reduce confrontation; Kruschke suggested separate discussion on complications. - Heat Safety: One worker was hospitalized for overheating on June 30; protocols include earlier shifts, more breaks, hydration/electrolytes. Crews may reduce to 6‑hour days in extreme heat. - Data Requests: Commissioner to provide number of parking enforcement vehicles; DPW to provide protected bike lane mileage data for upcoming Public Safety meeting; DPW to attach funding history and asset management memo to the file. Action: Motion by Ald. Bauman to hold to the call of the chair. Passed (5‑0, all members present including Ald. Brower).

The Milwaukee Licenses Committee met on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 9:05 AM in City Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Ald. Jocasta Zamarripa and adjourned at 3:35 PM. The committee considered numerous license applications, renewals, transfers, and disciplinary actions, with public testimony on several items. Consent Calendar - The committee approved a block of "Agenda Only" items (File 260318) including license transfers and renewals for The Deep Groove, German Fest, Renn Auto LLC, and Taco Bell 30420, all by a 5-0 vote. - A separate block of "Warning Letter" items was approved, including Teraira Giles' Class D operator's license and renewals for Choice Liquor and North End Beverage, also 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Milwaukee Food Market (2903 W Clybourn St): Neighbor Mauricio Rodriguez testified that since the store closed, violence and drug activity have decreased. He expressed safety concerns about loitering and trash. - Fresh Food and Meat Supermarket (4412 W Capitol Dr): Multiple residents spoke both in support and opposition. Supporters praised the applicant's community involvement; opponents cited concentration of liquor licenses and neighborhood deterioration. - Magic Foods (2879 N 16th St): Extensive testimony from neighbors. Pastor Mary Kannass, Ruby Johnson Harden, Christal West, LaVonica Love, and Joyce Ellwanger opposed the alcohol license renewal, citing loitering, drug dealing, and safety issues for children. Supporters including Barbara Jackson, Shaniqua Davis, and others argued the store is essential and that loitering is not the store's fault. - Other items: Testimony on Woody's (no neighbors), Burleigh Quick Mart (neighbor safety concerns), and others. Discussion Items - Revocation of Punta Cana (2000 S 13th St): The committee recommended placing the revocation motion on file (5-0), effectively ending the revocation proceedings. - Milwaukee Food Market Renewal: After debate about cleanliness and loitering, the committee amended the plan to include four cleanups per day and participation in the MPD FUSUS camera system. Approved 2-1-1-1 (Pratt, Jackson aye; Zamarripa no; Brower excused; Burgelis abstain). - Magic Foods Renewal: After extensive debate, the committee approved the food dealer license with a warning letter and amendments (security 3pm-9pm, ID scanner, restricted alcohol sales 8-9am and 2-3:30pm weekdays). The Class A malt/liquor license was renewed with a 20-day suspension based on evidence of loitering and failure to comply with the plan of operation. Vote 5-0. - Other notable approvals: Aldi 19 (held), Wendy's 2 (held), High Dive (renewed with warning letter), Silk on Water (renewed with warning letter), Cambria Hotel (approved), Country Inn Milwaukee Airport (renewed with warning letter), Travelodge Milwaukee (renewed with warning letter, amended security hours), and many others. Key Outcomes - File 260229 (Punta Cana revocation): Recommended for placement on file (5-0). - File 260318 (General licenses): Recommended for approval as amended (5-0). - 20-Day Suspension: Magic Foods' liquor license suspended for 20 days, effective upon council approval. - Warning Letters: Issued to several establishments including High Dive, Country Inn, Travelodge, Milwaukee Food Market, and others. - Held Items: Several applications were held to the call of the chair due to applicant non-appearance, pending BOZA approval, or lack of local counsel (e.g., Aldi, Wendy's, Burleigh Quick Mart, Center St BP). - Denial: Fresh Food and Meat Supermarket's application for beer/cider license was denied based on concentration of alcohol licenses (3-2 vote). The meeting adjourned at 3:35 PM.

June 29, 2026 | 1:30 PM – 8:38 PM | Hybrid Meeting The City Plan Commission convened to review six agenda items, including zoning changes, alley vacations, a comprehensive plan update, and a highly contested proposal for a deviation from the Midtown Center Development Incentive Zone (DIZ) overlay to allow an indoor self-storage facility and a data processing/computational research facility in the former Walmart building at 5825 West Hope Avenue. After extensive public testimony and deliberation, the commission voted to hold the two related zoning files (260029 and 260030), effectively postponing a decision. All other items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Minutes from June 8, 2026: Approved without objection (7-0). - Item 2 (260046) – Zoning Change from IL1 to IO1: Approved 7-0. The western 50 feet of 1215 West Layton Avenue will be rezoned to facilitate expansion of an existing gas station at 1233 West Layton Avenue. Staff recommended approval; Ald. Scott Spiker was in support. Applicants Saif and Riaz Mian appeared. The Board of Zoning Appeals will address landscaping requirements per the Garden District plan. - Item 3 (250157) – Alley Vacation (east-west alley north of West Cherry Street): Approved 7-0. The vacation accommodates the NewView mixed-use development by Neu-Life Community Development, including affordable housing for ages 18-24, a gym, and green space with a bioswale. - Item 4 (260170) – Alley Vacation (eastern portion of 12th Lane): Approved conditionally 7-0. Condition: Lis Pendens must be recorded per Wis. Stat. §62.73 before Public Works Committee consideration. Corrects historical survey inaccuracies. - Item 5 (260144) – Climate and Equity Plan Update: Approved 7-0. Two minor updates: updated department name to Department of Compliance and Engagement and added a footnote clarifying that all strategies are to be implemented consistent with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; recruitment targeted to economically disadvantaged communities, not people of color. Public Comments & Testimony (Items 6 and 7) - Applicant (Trent Overhue, AFS Milwaukee): Presented the plan to repurpose the former Walmart into: indoor self-storage (108,000 sq ft), a data processing/computational research facility (up to 19,000 sq ft, 7-10 MW, closed-loop cooling, <5 gallons water/day), community serving uses (51,000 sq ft including future library and early voting site), and 200 affordable housing units on the parking lot. Emphasized that the facility is small (100'x200'), not an AI data center, and would hire locally. - Department of City Development (Commissioner Lafayette Crump, Planning Director Tanya Fonseca): Presented staff recommendation for conditional approval with 12 conditions, noting the deviations would enable housing, library, and civic uses; the facility is 3% of the site; conditions would require permits for storage/data uses only after housing and community uses proceed. - Ald. Mark Chambers Jr. (2nd District): Supported the proposal as a necessary compromise to fund housing and library; stated he had canvassed and engaged residents. - Public Testimony in Opposition (39 speakers): Included residents, Party for Socialism and Liberation Milwaukee, Milwaukee Democratic Socialists of America, Sherman Park and Metcalfe Park groups. Key concerns: - Environmental: Flooding, traffic, noise (upward travel), power grid strain, higher electric bills, water use, closed-loop chemicals, heat islands. - Process & Equity: Lack of transparency (NDA for operator), inadequate community meetings (no chairs, no AC at first open house; wrong address), belief the proposal targets Black, Brown, and low-income neighborhoods for out-of-state profit, few local jobs (15-20 technical positions). - Misrepresentation: Called the facility a data center despite developer labeling it "computational research"; cited inconsistent messaging (biomedical vs. defense). - Requests: 24-month moratorium pending data center legislation, full environmental impact study, water and power benchmarking. - Public Testimony in Support (6 speakers): Jeremy Moore, Gloria Gonzalez, Tina Ojeda, Shayna Howard, Janice West, Babett Jeanes. Argued the project would end blight, revitalize Midtown, and bring needed library and housing; downplayed environmental impacts as minimal. - Ald. Peter Burgelis (11th District): Questioned enforcement of noise conditions and noted co-sponsorship of pending data center legislation. Requested clarity on timelines for enforcement (court revocation of occupancy). - Ald. Sharlen Moore (10th District): Opposed losing Capitol Library from her district, stating she was told the library move was a done deal with no community input in District 10. Discussion Items (Items 6 and 7 – Considered Together) - Proposal Details: AFS Milwaukee LLC request to deviate from the DIZ overlay to allow indoor self-storage and data processing/computational research facility in the rear of the former Walmart. The front 51,000 sq ft would house community/civic uses (future MPL library, early voting site). The housing (200 units, affordable) was approved separately. Staff recommended conditional approval with 12 conditions limiting power (10 MW), noise (acoustic report), water (no evaporative cooling), and requiring housing/civic uses to proceed first. - Commissioner Questions: - Commissioner Moody asked about community engagement; Ald. Chambers stated he held over 30 town halls and discussed the project. - Commissioner Washington asked about applicant's experience and operator NDA. Overhue said operator is under NDA but he would operate the facility; his company owns similar facilities elsewhere. - Commissioner Crane questioned grid stabilization; Overhue said the facility stabilizes the grid and that no energy upgrades are needed. - Commissioner Smith: Proposed conditional approval with additional conditions (water benchmarking, public environmental reports, landscaping/parking review, independent study of similar AFS facilities – developer-funded, firm undisclosed to AFS, including solar review). Motion failed for lack of a second. - Commissioner Smith: Then moved to hold for third-party review and solar assessment, seconded by Vice-chair Nemec. Failed 2-4-1 (yes: Nemec, Smith; no: Washington, Crane, Moody, Gonzalez; abstain: Bloomingdale). - Commissioner Moody: Moved to hold the file, seconded by Commissioner Gonzalez. Prevailed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Item 6 (260029) – DIZ Deviation: HELD 7-0. Motion by Commissioner Moody, seconded by Commissioner Gonzalez. File held in committee with no set date for return. - Item 7 (260030) – Site and Building Changes (DIZ): HELD 7-0. Motion by Commissioner Moody, seconded by Commissioner Gonzalez. - Items 2-5: All recommended for passage/adoption and assigned to respective committees (Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee or Public Works Committee) with unanimous 7-0 votes. - Next Steps: The two held items will be reconsidered at a future City Plan Commission meeting. The WHEDA low-income housing tax credit deadline of July 31, 2026, may be jeopardized if the delay extends past that date. The commission did not set a timeline for the hold. The community requested additional independent studies and a 24-month moratorium; no formal action was taken.

The Milwaukee Administrative Review Board of Appeals (ARBA) convened on June 25, 2026, at 9:01 AM in City Hall Room 303 with a virtual option. Chair Vincent Bobot presided, joined by Vice-Chair Kendrick Yandell, Ald. DiAndre Jackson, Elizabeth Hammer, and Alex Bruzan (all five present). The board heard 21 appeals concerning snow removal, garbage/litter, reinspection, encroachment, vacant building registration, and other nuisance fees. Several appellants did not appear, resulting in automatic denials. The meeting adjourned at approximately 11:15 AM, with a continuation hearing scheduled for Friday, August 14, 2026 at 9:00 AM. Snow Removal Fee Appeals - 26035 (Chase Hoffman & Erin Pfaff-Hoffman, 3672 S 20th St.): Granted in part – waived $50 inspection fee and $75 administration fee; appellant responsible for $210 contractor fee. (5-0 vote) - 26044 (Ryan Caflish, 5725 S Honey Creek Dr.): Granted in part – waived $50 posting fee and $75 administration fee; appellant responsible for $280 contractor fee plus $25.85 tax, total $304.85. (5-0 vote) - 26042 (Shauna Tisdall, 5728 W Washington Blvd.): Denied due to non-appearance. (5-0 vote) - 26048 (Susan Antani, 3329 N Bremen St.): Denied – upheld $50 posting fee. (5-0 vote) - 26021 (David Glaubke & Kip Mentzer, 2331 E Newberry Bl.): Denied due to non-appearance. (5-0 vote) - 26054 (Jerry Lee Pate, 3921 N 11th St.): Denied due to non-appearance. (5-0 vote) - 26055 (Scott Simon, 5700 W Stack Dr.): Granted in part – waived $210 contractor fee; appellant responsible for $50 posting fee, $75 administration fee, and associated tax. (5-0 vote) Garbage and Litter Nuisance Fee Appeals - 26046 (Anthony Jones, 3268 N 34th St.): Granted in part – waived $120 administration fee and $11.73 IT surcharge; reduced contractor fee by $241, leaving $372 contractor fee. (5-0 vote) - 26047 (Nicole Tanner, 3621 N Teutonia Ave.): Denied due to non-appearance. (5-0 vote) - 25158 (Jordan Sowinski, 4252 N 89th St.): Denied due to non-appearance. (5-0 vote) - 26052 (Steven Brick c/o POCO14 LLC, 3121 N 29th St.): Denied due to non-appearance. (5-0 vote) Encroachment Nuisance Fee Appeal - 26057 (Sean L. Hillery, 6355 N 105th St.): Granted entirely – all fees ($525 contractor, $50 admin, $36.75 tax) waived due to insufficient evidence from the city. (5-0 vote) Reinspection Fee Appeals - 26043 (Jon Wesley Frost, 8068 N 107th St.): Granted in part – waived $508 of reinspection fees (from March 17 inspection); appellant responsible for $1,016. (5-0 vote) - 26049 (Jehad Jehad, 5823 S 31st St.): Denied due to non-appearance. (5-0 vote) - 25150 (Jonathan Smith, 615 S 89th St.): Denied due to non-appearance. (5-0 vote) - 26053 (Tywanna D Alexander, 4417 W Howie Pl.): Denied due to non-appearance. (5-0 vote) Vacant Building Registration Fee Appeals - 26033 (Jonathan Apo, POHAKUVENTURES LLC, 1315 W Finn Pl.): Held in committee (postponed). - 26040 (Shirley Walker, 2712 N 53rd St.): Held in committee due to appellant technical difficulties. (5-0 vote) Other Appeals - 25192 (Catherine Beck, denial of chicken keeping permit, 2912 N Prospect Ave.): Held in committee per appellant’s request. (5-0 vote) - 26018 (Mildred Ortiz, overhanging branches nuisance fees, 3016 W St. Paul Ave.): Denied due to non-appearance. (5-0 vote) - 26059 (Atty. Michael Pflughoeft, Jr., nuisance property designation, 4805 N Sherman Blvd.): Held in committee. (5-0 vote) Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (5-0). - Several appeals were granted with partial fee waivers based on appellant testimony or lack of city evidence. - Appellants who failed to appear had their appeals denied. - Three appeals were held in committee for future hearing. - A continuation meeting was scheduled for Friday, August 14, 2026 at 9:00 AM to address remaining items.

The Emerging Youth Achievement Advisory Council (EYAAC) met on June 25, 2026, at 10:15 AM CT, chaired by Alderman Russell Stamper II in the absence of President Jose Perez. The council heard presentations from three youth-serving organizations, received updates on Project Kindred and the Data & Research Committee, and discussed upcoming civic engagement events. The meeting concluded with public comments from youth involved in BID 32 cleanup efforts. Consent Calendar - Review and approval of previous meeting minutes were held over until the next meeting due to lack of quorum. - Approval of $500 for lunch for the July 16 scavenger hunt was moved and seconded, contingent on achieving quorum at the next meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Wright (BID 32, Lindsay Heights) introduced youth from the BID 32 Marketplace program, who spoke about their community cleanup efforts. Eli Morris stated the program taught teamwork and community engagement, and noted a need for more public garbage cans. Aiden Fox described gaining self-motivation and supporting local businesses. Celeste Lawrence Moore expressed interest in activating parks and community gardens. The youth requested additional garbage cans to reduce litter. Discussion Items - MMAC Be the Spark Presentation: Dominique (Career Pathways Manager) and Corey Joe Biddle (VP of Talent) presented MMAC's K-12 career pathway programs. MMAC represents 2,000 businesses employing 300,000+ people. Programs include Be the Spark (career exposure events, 120 students from 9 schools last spring), Teamship (students solve real-world business problems), and internship pipelines. Speakers emphasized connecting students to diverse career opportunities and shifting narratives about Milwaukee youth. Members discussed expanding to more schools and aligning curriculum with employer needs. - Pearl for Teen Girls Presentation: Jasmine Deakin, Dr. Tiffany Tardy (President/CEO), and youth leaders presented Pearl's programs for girls grades 5-12, serving 1,020 girls in 2024-25 with 21 groups across Milwaukee. The evidence-based curriculum covers personal responsibility, empathy, awareness, respect, leadership, and support. 98% of participants said they would return and refer friends. Costs per group of 25 girls are approximately $40,000/year; speakers noted 100+ schools cannot afford the program. Members asked about staff qualifications (bachelor's degrees, youth mental health first aid, trauma-informed care) and how to expand access. - Latina Resource Center (UMOS) Raices Presentation: Mariana Rodriguez, Jennifer Rodriguez, youth leaders, and Diana Gonzalez presented Raices, a youth program focused on domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking prevention. The program uses Expect Respect and Safe Dates curricula, meets weekly, and includes tobacco prevention initiatives (158 retailer checks in 30 days). Youth leaders described attending Pride Fest, visiting the Black Holocaust Museum, and leading peer education. Staff are college-educated with ongoing training. The program is funded by a small grant from End Abuse Wisconsin/Department of Children and Family Services. - Project Kindred Update: Clifton Crump and Bevan reported on the June 13 event at Kazi Center (114 attendees, 70 youth, $4,000 raised by youth, $7,200 from city). Upcoming events: July 7-10 Root Cause to Action at Marquette (youth explore community issues, with EYAAC engagement on July 9); July 16 City Hall engagement (department visits, lunch, youth presentations to EYAAC at 1 PM). Goal is to develop youth-led policy proposals for city consideration. - EYAAC Data & Research Committee Update: Gabe Velez reported the committee finalized a report on CDBG-funded organizations and is planning an October 15 workshop. Two grant opportunities were discussed: William T. Grant Foundation research grant (up to $50,000 for 1-2 years) and AISP learning community (capacity building requiring a government co-lead). Committee seeks council support for both applications. - Strive Together June Policy Summit: Amber Dayus reported on attending the City Accelerator in Washington, D.C., with Vincent Lyles (Milwaukee Succeeds). The summit focused on place-based partnerships and cradle-to-career outcomes. Dayus proposed a 90-day action plan for Milwaukee to address a youth issue, with potential alignment with Project Kindred's root cause work. - Funding Approval: Motion to approve $500 for lunch for the July 16 scavenger hunt was approved contingent on achieving quorum. Key Outcomes - The council expressed support for the grant applications led by the Data & Research Committee, with a request for written requirements. - The July 16 EYAAC meeting will feature Project Kindred youth presenting their policy proposals; the council will consider adopting a 90-day action plan in alignment with the Strive Together summit recommendations. - The chairman will follow up with presenters regarding partnership opportunities and potential city funding. - Next regular meeting scheduled for July 16, 2026, at 1:00 PM in Room 303 of City Hall.

The Board of Zoning Appeals met on June 25, 2026, but due to the absence of Vice Chair Henry Schmeisky (illness) and another member (vacation), the board lacked a quorum to conduct regular public hearings. Only four members were present, one of whom (board member current) joined remotely and could only participate in the consent calendar. The chair announced that all pending public hearing items (items 25 and beyond) would be rescheduled as soon as possible, with notice provided to applicants. The consent calendar was approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda consisted of 24 items covering conditional modifications, extensions of time, special use requests, dimensional variances, and use variances. All staff recommendations were accepted by a unanimous voice vote (4-0). The board did not receive any requests to pull items from the consent agenda. - Key actions included: - Dismissals without prejudice: items 1 (516 North Hopkins St), 3 (6435 West Capitol Dr Unit A), 4 (531 East Keith Ave), 6 (8260 West Northridge Mall Rd), 7 (5430 West Belite St), 8 (1704 West Hays Ave). - Approvals for varying durations: items 2 & 5 (one-year approvals for extensions of time), items 9–14 (10-year special use approvals), item 15 (approval through December 12, 2028), item 16 (three-year approval), item 20 (20-year special use approval), item 23 (special use through July 27, 2033, dimensional variance to run with the land), items 17, 19, 24 (dimensional variances approved to run with the land), item 18 (10-year special use), item 21 (10-year use variance), item 22 (10-year special use). Key Outcomes - The board approved the entire consent calendar unanimously (4-0). - All remaining public hearing items (items 25 and beyond) were postponed. The chair stated that the board will work to reschedule them before the next regular meeting, potentially requiring a longer meeting next time, due to notice requirements. - The meeting was adjourned shortly after the consent calendar vote, as only three members remained (board member current had to leave due to a poor internet connection), leaving the board without a quorum.