Public Meetings - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The City Plan Commission met on April 27, 2026, at 1:30 PM in a hybrid format to consider five items, including zoning changes, a signage modification, and a major affordable housing development. All items were approved unanimously (6-0 or 5-0). The meeting adjourned at 3:13 PM. Consent Calendar - Item 1: Approval of the March 9, 2026 meeting minutes was approved without objection. Discussion Items Item 2: Minor Modification to St. Rita Square for Additional Signage - File 252012: A resolution to allow a projecting sign on the Van Buren Street frontage of the senior living facility at 728 E. Pleasant St. The sign is non-illuminated, blue, and branded with Capri Communities colors. Staff recommended approval, and Ald. Brower supported. Amy Schoenemann of Capri Communities testified that the sign would increase visibility for the senior living community, which is currently full. The commission approved 6-0. Item 3: Zoning Change from IH to IM at 2156-2166 S. 4th St. - File 251867: A substitute ordinance to rezone two properties from Industrial Heavy to Industrial Mixed to allow a wider mix of uses. The building currently houses a daycare (Ebenezer) on the first two floors. Bill Sinsky of the Druml Company stated that heavy industrial use is no longer feasible. The site is within the Harbor District, and the Riverwalk extension is anticipated. Staff recommended approval; President Perez had no objections. Approved 6-0. Item 4: Zoning Change from RS2 to RM3 at 11919 W. Bradley Rd. - File 251606: A substitute ordinance to rezone a 15-acre church site to allow a 100-unit senior housing development (townhouse-style flats) with future phases including a memory care facility and a new school. The applicant, Scott Crawford, Inc., presented concept plans. Dr. Robert Randolph of Kingdom Faith Fellowship Church co-sponsored. Ald. Taylor testified in support, noting the need for memory care. The community engagement included a meeting in February 2026 with support from an adjacent resident. Construction for phase 1 is targeted for Q3 2026. Approved 6-0. Item 5: Midtown Commons Affordable Housing Development - File 252155: A resolution approving plans for a 200-unit affordable multifamily development (Midtown Commons) on the former Walmart parking lot at 5825 W. Hope Ave., part of the Midtown Center redevelopment. The development will be built in two phases of 100 units each, with a mix of 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments. The unit mix is 35 three-bedroom, 40 two-bedroom, and 25 one-bedroom units per phase. Parking totals 205 spaces. The play area and landscaping are included. Staff recommended approval. Ald. Chambers testified in support, emphasizing the project's potential to catalyze the corridor. Ted Matkom of Gorman & Company and Mark Larson of Korb Architects presented. Discussion included traffic calming, lighting, landscaping, and community engagement. The commission approved 5-0 (Chair Bloomingdale left at 2:55 PM). Key Outcomes - All items were approved unanimously. - Item 2: Resolution recommended for adoption to Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee. - Items 3 and 4: Ordinances recommended for passage to Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee. - Item 5: Plan Commission Resolution approved. - Meeting adjourned at 3:13 PM.

The Emerging Youth Achievement Advisory Council, chaired by Ald. Jose Perez, met on April 24, 2026, at 8:30 AM (called to order at 8:38 AM) in City Hall Room 301-B. The council heard presentations from Mentor Greater Milwaukee and Employ Milwaukee (Earn and Learn and Camp Rise programs), discussed funding and capacity challenges, and postponed two agenda items due to time constraints. Key outcomes included approval of prior meeting minutes and a commitment to follow up on data and funding strategies. Consent Calendar - Approval of prior meeting minutes: Moved by Ald. Stamper, seconded by Brian Litzsey, approved without objection. Discussion Items - Mentor Greater Milwaukee Presentation (LaNelle Ramey, Executive Director): - Mission: Increase mentoring capacity for youth ages 10–24 in Milwaukee. Founded in 2019 by the City of Milwaukee, Milwaukee Bucks, and Milwaukee Public Schools. Part of a national affiliate network of 23 affiliates. - Core priorities: Technical assistance, recruitment via the Mentoring Connector (milwaukeementor.com), advocacy (annual symposium, Capitol Hill Day), and data use to strengthen mentoring. - Statistics: 102 program partners (86 actively accepting mentors/mentees); Youth Voice Summit hires 12–15 interns annually; 37% decrease in youth sense of belonging over 10 years (Wisconsin study); 45% of African American K–12 students lacked a trusted adult at school. - Barriers: Wait lists (Big Brothers Big Sisters has 200+ youth waiting), funding challenges (DEI divestment, shift toward workforce development framing), staffing shortages, data-sharing reluctance among organizations. - Consistency standard: 1.5 hours per month for at least 6 months can be effective. - City partnership: CDBG-funded free support/training for city employees; city employees allowed up to 1.5 hours/month of paid time to mentor (per Mayor Johnson’s policy). - Quality assurance: Partner programs must complete Elements of Effective Mentoring Practices training and background checks; MENTOR does not grade or require full data sharing. National Quality Mentoring System (NQMS) suggested as a potential evaluation framework. - Employ Milwaukee Presentation (Cody Harding, Performance and Reporting Analyst; Romell Greer, Camp Rise Director): - Earn and Learn Community Work Experience Program: Subsidized summer youth employment for ages 14–24; $12.21/hour, 20 hours/week for 7 weeks. Provides first-time work experience, onboarding (I-9, W-4), financial literacy, and free bank account through Educators Credit Union. - Statistics: 2,276 applicants for approximately 800 planned slots (capacity); 83 work site organizations requested 1,069 participants. Budget estimated at “a little over $1M” (though total cost per participant $2,000–$2,300 would imply a higher budget; this discrepancy was noted by council members). Funding sources: State DWD, CDBG, and restricted internal grants (e.g., Serve hospitality grant, Biohealth grant). - Capacity constraint: Funding is the primary limitation; 1,400 youth were served during COVID peak (ARPA funds). Council members (including Ald. Perez and a member) voiced strong support for tripling resources to meet demand. - Post-program tracking: Largely anecdotal; new Camp Rise partnership aims to improve outcome data. - Camp Rise: Work-based, life-skills summer program for MPS students ages 10–13, started 2022. 2026 plans: 350 participants (245 new slots + 114–115 returning); 500 applications received. Budget not provided. Program runs June 22–Aug 7 at North Division building (MPS site). Boys and girls separated (200 boys, 150 girls); 1:8 staff-to-youth ratio; free busing, lunch, and stipend. New pre-apprenticeship lanes in healthcare, manufacturing, STEM, and public service for 12–13 year olds. - Participants age out into Earn and Learn at 14. - Council members (including Ald. Perez and a member) expressed strong interest in expanding Camp Rise capacity and noted the high demand (only 350 slots for 500 applicants). Key Outcomes - Directives and next steps: - The council directed Employ Milwaukee to provide detailed budget and per-participant cost data for both Earn and Learn and Camp Rise. - Council members committed to exploring CDBG funding requirements to strengthen mentoring quality standards (e.g., requiring NQMS evaluation for CDBG-funded youth programs). - Mentor Greater Milwaukee’s Executive Director was invited to return at the end of summer 2026 to report on outcomes. - Postponed items: MPS Career and Technical Education (CTE) presentation and MPS COIN presentation were postponed to the next meeting due to the flood drill time constraint. - Next meeting: Scheduled for May 14, 2026. The Milwaukee Succeeds Partnership update was noted as a future discussion item.

The Board of City Service Commissioners held a brief virtual meeting on April 21, 2026, at 1:30 PM. All five commissioners were present. The meeting lasted approximately 10 minutes and covered routine personnel matters, an annual report, and discharge appeal findings. All agenda items were approved unanimously. Approval of Minutes - The board approved the minutes of the April 8, 2025 meeting as submitted. (Motion by Cleary, second by Wick Spoerl; vote 5-0) Temporary Appointment Extensions - Armando Lopez: Approved a 90-day extension as Water Field Supervisor from April 26, 2026 to August 1, 2026, due to the regular incumbent being on injury leave without a projected return date. (Motion by Miller, second by Cleary; vote 5-0) - Richard Vanriper, Jr. and Timothy Edwards: Approved 90-day extensions as Water Field Supervisors for the same period, to provide adequate supervision of field operations and to give the employees supervisory experience for future promotional opportunities. (Motion by Cleary, second by Wick Spoerl; vote 5-0) Department of Employee Relations 2025 Annual Report - Commissioners reviewed and approved the 2025 Annual Report of Activities prepared by Administrative Support Specialist Elizabeth Moore. President Bock highlighted the data on discipline and discharge hearings and the 30 meetings held. The report will be forwarded as required by statute. (Motion by Miller, second by Smith; vote 5-0) Findings of Fact – Anthony Bass Discharge Appeal - The board approved the proposed findings of fact from the Office of the City Attorney regarding the discharge appeal hearing for Anthony Bass. No changes or questions were raised. (Motion by Smith, second by Wick Spoerl; vote 5-0) Key Outcomes - All five agenda items were approved by unanimous 5-0 votes. - Executive Secretary Jackie Q. Carter will forward the annual report as required. - The findings of fact will be signed by staff on behalf of the commission. - President Bock announced schedule changes: the May 19, 2026 meeting will start at 2:30 PM instead of 1:30 PM, and the November 2026 meeting will be held on November 4th (instead of November 3rd) due to the general election. - Commissioner Cleary noted she may be unable to attend the May 19 meeting. - The meeting adjourned at 1:40 PM.

The Common Council of the City of Milwaukee met on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 9:13 AM in the Common Council Chamber. The meeting was called to order at 9:13 AM and adjourned at 10:53 AM. Fourteen of fifteen aldermen were present; Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic (14th District) was excused. The meeting included a Teacher Appreciation Day presentation, approval of numerous committee reports, and three matters for immediate adoption. Key outcomes included a $2.8 million investment in food access, passage of an ordinance requiring law enforcement officers to identify themselves, and a resolution calling for the release of detained community leader Salah Sarsour. Consent Calendar - Commendatory and Condolatory Resolutions: Placed on file (14-0). - Licenses Committee: Approved renewals with suspensions for Parminder Kaur (20-day suspension) and Lucia Antonio Perez (10-day suspension); one item (Kitchen 11 Eleven) was sent back to committee at the request of Ald. Taylor. - Public Works Committee: All 13 items passed unanimously, including: renaming South Cesar Chavez Drive, acceptance of lead service line replacement costs, bike share expansion ($2,074,695), traffic signal improvements at 62 intersections ($2,150,400, with $1,720,320 grant share), various nonassessable public improvements ($18.4 million total), and easements for sidewalk construction. - Finance & Personnel Committee: All 10 items passed, including optional holidays, 2026 pay rates, quarterly expenditure reports, travel authorization, and appropriation of $1,600,000 from the Common Council Contingent Fund to the Damages and Claims Fund and $250,000 to the Outside Counsel/Expert Witness Fund. The transfer of funds from the MPD Federal Forfeiture Revenue Contribution Account to the Police Department budget passed 12-2 (Ald. Chambers and Brower opposed). - Judiciary & Legislation Committee: All 16 items passed, including settlements, claims appeals, legal contracts, and tax cancellations. An amendment to correct the funding source for a visa legal services contract was adopted without objection. - Public Safety & Health Committee: Approved parking and traffic controls, time-limited food truck zones (4-1 in committee), and expenditure of opioid settlement funds. The appointment of Karin Tyler as Community Wellness and Safety Director passed 9-3 (Ald. Bauman, Moore, Spiker opposed; Ald. Coggs and Perez abstained). - Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee: All 15 items passed, including an amendment to increase the fee for posting an emergency order from $180 to $360 (Ald. Moore's amendment). Multiple property sale-backs and TID amendments were approved. - Community & Economic Development Committee: All 14 items passed, including strategies for grocery store and pharmacy retention, allocation from the Large Impact Development Fund, a Wisconsin Arts Board grant, designation of Youth Victory Over Violence Week (April 26–May 2, 2026), reallocation of funds for Girls’ Day at City Hall, and a partnership with Milwaukee Succeeds. - Steering & Rules Committee: All 3 items passed, including a substitute ordinance on notice of closure for food establishments, designation of Milwaukee as a Certified Sensory Inclusive City, and a resolution declaring food apartheid a public health emergency. Discussion Items - Law Enforcement Identification Ordinance (File 251797): Ald. Brower moved to take the file from the Public Safety & Health Committee and substitute a new version. After debate, the ordinance was passed 13-0 (Ald. Chambers abstained). The ordinance requires law enforcement officers of any agency, including ICE, to identify themselves by badge number and agency when asked, and prohibits wearing face coverings to conceal identity. Supporters (Ald. Brower, Burgelis, Zamarripa) argued it would protect residents and allow differentiation between local and federal officers. Ald. Chambers expressed concern about the ordinance's implications for masking in general community safety but stated he fully supports efforts to protect the public from federal tyranny. - Resolution on the Arrest and Detention of Salah Sarsour (File 252229): Passed as a matter for immediate adoption 12-3 (Ald. Westmoreland and Jackson excused; all others aye). The resolution calls for the release of Salah Sarsour, president of the Islamic Society of Milwaukee, who was detained by ICE on March 30, 2026, and is held in Indiana. Ald. Brower, Chambers, Zamarripa, and Moore spoke in support, citing Sarsour's contributions to the community and condemning the use of a confession allegedly extracted under torture. Ald. Chambers shared a personal story of Sarsour's kindness. Key Outcomes - Food Access Package: The Council approved a series of resolutions totaling $2.8 million to stabilize and expand grocery store and pharmacy access, including strategies for retention and attraction, allocation from the Large Impact Development Fund, expenditure from the Grocery Store Retention Fund, and a declaration of food apartheid as a public health emergency. All measures passed unanimously. - Bike Share Expansion: Authorized the Comptroller to fund the procurement and construction phase of the Bike Share Expansion project, total estimated cost $2,074,695. - Traffic Signal Improvements: Authorized a State Municipal Agreement for traffic signal improvements at 62 intersections, total estimated cost $2,150,400 (city share $430,080). - Public Works Improvements: Approved nonassessable public improvements totaling $18.4 million (engineering $1,635,000) and construction projects totaling $2,043,000. - Contingent Fund Appropriations: Reserved $1,600,000 for the Damages and Claims Fund and $250,000 for the Outside Counsel/Expert Witness Fund. - Appointments: Confirmed Linda Elmer and Esperanza Gutierrez to the Citizen Advisory Committee on Naming; Karin Tyler as Community Wellness and Safety Director; Michael Behrens, Thomas Irgens, and Josh Weber to Business Improvement Districts; Mary Reed as Director of the Department of Compliance and Engagement; and reappointments to the Bronzeville Advisory Committee. - Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month: Designated as an annual official city event (passed 14-0). - Certified Sensory Inclusive City: Designation approved; the mayor's signing ceremony was scheduled for noon. Announcements included remembrance of journalist Dan Bice, community cleanups, and the Big Clean MKE kickoff on Earth Day (April 22).

The Fire and Police Commission (FPC) held its regular meeting on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 5:32 p.m. in City Hall, Room 301-B. Chair Miriam Horwitz presided, with Commissioners Bree Spencer, Dana World-Patterson, LaNelle Ramey, Ruben Burgos, Christopher Snyder, Jeff Spence, and Krissie Fung present. Commissioner Ramon Evans was excused. The meeting included public comment, consent items, a special reappointment, and discussion on police policies, promotion examinations, and public comment procedures. The meeting adjourned at 8:38 p.m. Consent Calendar - Items 2 through 12 were adopted by general consent without debate. These included approval of April 2, 2026 meeting minutes, appointments to Building Maintenance Supervisor, Custodial Worker 1, Police Facilities Laborer, and School Crossing Guard positions within MPD; re-exemption of the Intelligence Analyst position; referrals for examinations/eligible lists for Crime Scene Supervisor, Intelligence Analyst, and IT Project Coordinator positions; and approval of HVAC Maintenance Technician 1 and Technician 3 eligible lists. Public Comments & Testimony Seventeen members of the public testified in person or virtually. Key positions expressed: - Support for Fire Chief Aaron Lipski's reappointment: Cynthia Greenwood, Amanda DeLeon, Tammy Bockhorst, Tahrea Malik (Samat's House), Chris Anderson (Bell Ambulance), and an unnamed speaker urged reappointment, citing his leadership in the opioid crisis (MORI program, Hope kits) and community engagement. - Support for reinstating use of force reporting when firearms are drawn: Mia Heredia (Milwaukee Turners), Nicholas X Doherty (Milwaukee Turners), Julie Hueller Curcio (virtual) argued that officers should file reports whenever they draw a firearm, emphasizing accountability and transparency. - Support for stricter vehicle pursuit policies: Tiffany Stark (Milwaukee Alliance), Kayla Patterson, Casey Serrano, Chard Valesz, and Kevin Sas Perez urged adoption of proposed modifications to SOP 660 (vehicle pursuits) and SOP 575 (video release). Stark, Patterson, and Serrano noted nine deaths in summer 2025 from police chases and requested collaboration between FPC and Common Council. - Concerns about public comment structure: Emily Sterk (Milwaukee Turners), Kevin Sas Perez, and Chard Valesz opposed reducing public comment time, urging codified procedures and continued five-minute allotments. - Other comments: Brian Verdin (Milwaukee Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression) urged FPC meetings in neighborhoods; Israel Webb expressed frustration with law enforcement response. Discussion Items - Reappointment of Fire Chief Aaron Lipski (Item 13): Executive Director Leon Todd noted Chief Lipski's four-year term ends May 17, 2026. The commission set a base salary of $234,000, with total annual salary (including incentives) of $245,793.60. Commissioners praised Chief Lipski's leadership, collaboration, and community focus. The reappointment was approved unanimously (8-0). - Communication on SOP 460 – Use of Force (Item 18): Alderman Peter Burgelis presented a substitute motion to restore the requirement that officers file a use of force report when displaying a firearm to effect an arrest. Assistant Chief Craig Sarnau explained the department had removed this in October 2024, arguing that displaying a firearm is not a use of force per national standards and that 182 incidents of display-only occurred in 2024 (13% of uses of force). Commissioners debated the value of tracking such data; Commissioner Spencer and others supported restoration for accountability, while Commissioner Spence raised definitional concerns. The item was placed on file as a communication, with intent to discuss further at a future meeting. - Vehicle Pursuits and Video Release (Item 15): Proposed Substitute A, sponsored by Vice Chair Spencer and Commissioner World-Patterson, recommended modifying SOP 660 to prohibit pursuits for reckless driving observed after an attempted stop and to require termination if the pursuit increases public danger. It also recommended adding vehicle pursuits involving death or great bodily harm to categories requiring video release under SOP 575. Commissioner Spencer noted ten deaths occurred in 2025 (nine initially cited, corrected to ten). The resolution was adopted unanimously (8-0). - Structure and Format of Public Comment (Item 16): Executive Director Todd outlined options (reducing time from 5 minutes to 2-3 minutes when speaker threshold exceeded, creating longer slots for organizations, adjusting speaker order). Commissioners debated; some favored retaining 5 minutes, others noted repetitive testimony. Chair Horwitz will implement a slip system where speakers can indicate agreement without speaking, and the issue may be revisited. The communication was held to the call of the chair. - Minimum Service Requirements for Police Sergeant Exam (Item 17): Todd proposed reducing the continuous service requirement from 7 years to 6 years, with department support. The Milwaukee Police Supervisors Organization (MPSO) proposed maintaining 7 years but allowing detectives with 2 years in role to take the exam after 6 years. Commissioners expressed interest in further discussion, and the matter was referred to the Testing and Recruiting Committee, due back May 12, 2026. - MPD SOP Changes (Item 19): Assistant Chief Sarnau presented updates to SOP 090 (prisoner transport in wheelchairs by private ambulance), SOP 300 (removal of no-action encounter references), SOP 375 (electronic satellite pursuit system naming updates), SOP 780 (facilities security name change), and a new SOI for the Crash Reconstruction Unit. Commissioners noted redactions for operational security. The communication was placed on file. - Executive Director Report (Item 20): Todd announced Research and Policy Analyst Barbara Cooley's retirement at month end and praised her contributions. The communication was placed on file. - Firefighter Lateral Transfer Job Announcement (Item 14): Chief Lipski explained the new bulletin allows lateral transfers from paid career fire departments, with shortened academy training and guardrails to manage volume. The resolution was adopted on a voice vote. - Promotions (Items 21-23): - Fire Captain Christian Hoos promoted to Battalion Chief (unanimous, 8-0). - Lieutenant Matthew D. Thundercloud promoted to Fire Captain (unanimous, 8-0). - Jack Renecki promoted to Crime Analyst III (unanimous, 8-0). Key Outcomes - Fire Chief Reappointment: Aaron Lipski reappointed for second four-year term effective May 17, 2026, with base salary of $234,000 (total $245,793.60). Vote: 8-0. - Vehicle Pursuit Policy Recommendation: Substitute A (modifying SOP 660 and SOP 575) adopted unanimously. Next steps: MPD may adopt, or matter goes to Common Council. - SOP 460 Discussion: No immediate action; placed on file for future consideration. - Public Comment Structure: Chair to implement slip system; no change to 5-minute limit at this time. - Sergeant Exam Requirements: Referred to Testing and Recruiting Committee; report due May 12, 2026. - Consent Items: All 11 items adopted by general consent. - Fire Department Promotions Approved: Battalion Chief Hoos, Fire Captain Thundercloud. - Police Department Promotion Approved: Crime Analyst III Renecki. - Lateral Firefighter Transfer Bulletin Approved: Voice vote. - MPD SOP Changes Placed on File: No objections.

The Fire and Police Commission (FPC) held an executive session on April 16, 2026, at 5:03 PM in City Hall, Room 301-B, to consider a closed-session resolution regarding the promotion of a candidate to the position of Battalion Chief. The meeting was called to order by Chair Miriam Horwitz, with 8 commissioners present and one excused. No public comments or discussion items were taken up in open session; the sole action was a unanimous vote to adjourn into closed session. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - None in open session. Key Outcomes - Motion to convene in closed session: Commissioner Chris Snyder moved, seconded by Commissioner Jeff Spence, to enter closed session under Wisconsin Statute 19.85(1)(c) to discuss employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data related to the Battalion Chief promotion. The motion passed unanimously, with no opposed votes or abstentions recorded. The meeting adjourned at 5:23 PM.

The Finance and Personnel Committee of the City of Milwaukee, chaired by Ald. Marina Dimitrijevic (excused), convened on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at 9:07 a.m. in City Hall. Present were Ald. Peter Burgelis (Vice-Chair), Ald. Scott P. Spiker, Ald. Milele A. Coggs, and Ald. Sharlen P. Moore. The meeting covered 17 agenda items, including ordinances, resolutions, communications, and approvals related to budgeting, cybersecurity, enterprise resource planning, police department asset forfeiture, fleet auditing, litigation funding, and personnel matters. The meeting adjourned at 10:54 a.m. Consent Calendar - All items were approved with unanimous 4–0 votes (with Chair Dimitrijevic excused) except File 252055 (optional holidays) which passed 3–0 (Ald. Coggs excused). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Optional Holidays Ordinance (File 252055): Ald. Jose Perez presented an ordinance to remove optional holidays from city code, including Cesar E. Chavez Day. He stated this was part of a process for the community to heal, noting recent news and allegations, and emphasized that removing optional holidays should not diminish the work or outcome associated with them. The committee recommended passage 3–0 (Ald. Coggs excused). - Quarterly Expenditure Reporting (File 251444): Ald. Mark Chambers Jr. introduced a resolution directing the Comptroller’s Office to provide quarterly expenditure reports for all departmental accounts, including special funds and special purpose accounts. This originated as a budget footnote from last year's budget process. President Ald. Perez was added as a co-sponsor. The committee recommended adoption 4–0. - Cybersecurity Training Status (File 251819): David Henke (ITMD) and Judy Siettmann (ITMD) presented that the city moved from annual to monthly cybersecurity training. Citywide completion was approximately 80% for the first two months of 2026, compared to 30–60% under the annual model. Average training time per learner was 5 minutes per month (60 minutes/year). The committee held the file for further review, with Ald. Spiker noting follow-up with departments below 80% compliance, including the City Attorney's Office, Election Commission, Fire and Police Commission, and MPD. The Budget Office, Comptroller's Office, ITMD, Mayor's Office, and Treasurer's Office achieved 100% compliance. - Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System Replacement Status (File 241695): David Henke presented that the go-live date for the Workday system was being extended from June 2026 to September 2026 due to complex integrations, staff turnover (including at Accenture), and unforeseen business priorities. The original project budget (2024–2026) was $23.85 million; the extension adds approximately $1.15 million, bringing the total to $25 million. Funds are expected to be covered by carryover from DOA 2025 budgets. Key risks to the September deadline include payroll testing, financial data conversion, and large punch lists. The committee placed the communication on file 4–0. - MPD Asset Forfeiture Fund Transfer (File 251834): Laura Engan (MPD) presented the 2026 Asset Forfeiture Plan. The Equitable Sharing Program (U.S. DOJ) generated revenue that varied from $200,000 (2021) to $2 million (2022). As of December 31, 2025, the trust fund had $1.8 million. The 2026 plan uses $1.1 million, leaving $785,000 in reserve. About 20% ($215,000) supports community engagement and equipment requested by neighborhoods (e.g., crossing guard signs, speed boards, home security cameras). Additional categories include general equipment ($245,000 for technology), training, and a $108,000 annual lease for Milwaukee Urban Stables (mounted patrol facility). Ald. Coggs raised concerns about the stables’ lease and federal staging; MPD Chief of Staff Heather Hough confirmed steps were taken to prohibit law enforcement staging at the facility. The committee recommended adoption of the substitute resolution 4–0. - MPD Fleet Audit Communication (File 252142): Adriana Molina (Comptroller’s Office) and Brian Boguski (CLA) presented an audit of MPD’s fleet procurement-to-disposal lifecycle. One medium-level finding was identified: MPD’s budget and finance SOP lacked detail on fleet procurement and inventory updates. MPD agreed to update the SOP by September 2026. The committee placed the communication on file 4–0. - Litigation Funding (File 252006): City Attorney Evan Goyke requested $1,600,000 from the 2026 Common Council Contingent Fund to the Damages and Claims Fund, and $250,000 to the Outside Counsel/Expert Witness Fund. This was the first draw from the $5 million contingent fund, reducing it to $3 million. The funds address a large resolved case and five open outside counsel contracts. The committee recommended adoption 4–0. - Vacancy Requests (File 252061): The agenda included numerous vacancy fill requests across departments. Notable discussion occurred on MPD custodial worker vacancies (high turnover, retention issues) and DPW’s new Urban Forestry Manager position (backfill due to promotion). The committee approved the communication 4–0. - Incentive Pay for Property Management Positions (File 252144): DER recommended adding incentive pay for a real estate broker’s license for the Property Management Supervisor and Property Manager in DCD. Ald. Spiker questioned why this was incentivized rather than required; DCD staff explained it was beneficial but not a minimum requirement. The committee placed the file on file 4–0. - Other Items: Several files were approved or placed on file without substantive discussion: classification studies, salary ordinance corrections, travel authorization, and routine contract approvals/waivers. Key Outcomes - File 252055 (Optional Holidays): Recommended for passage 3–0. - File 251444 (Quarterly Expenditure Reports): Recommended for adoption 4–0. - File 251819 (Cybersecurity Training): Held to call of the chair for quarterly follow-up. - File 241695 (ERP Update): Placed on file; extension to September 2026 and $1.15 million cost noted. - File 251834 (MPD Asset Forfeiture): Recommended for adoption 4–0 with substitute. - File 252142 (MPD Fleet Audit): Placed on file; SOP update due September 2026. - File 252006 (Litigation Funding): Recommended for adoption 4–0. - File 252061 (Vacancy Requests): Approved 4–0. - File 252143 (Director of Compliance & Engagement): Placed on file; new pay range 1X ($110,000–$191,000). - File 252144 (Incentive Pay): Placed on file 4–0. - All remaining items (8 through 17) were approved or placed on file with 4–0 votes. - Meeting adjourned at 10:54 a.m.

The Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee (HACM) Board of Commissioners met on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 4:00 PM in City Hall Room 301-B. All seven commissioners were present. The board approved consent items, an employment contract for a new executive director, several construction contracts, and a property sale. They discussed the impact of a Common Council resolution on immigration enforcement, received updates on capital funds, and held an extensive discussion on high vacancy rates and unit turnaround processes. The meeting also included reports on public safety, the Housing Choice Voucher program, and asset management. The meeting adjourned at 7:30 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the Public Listening Session held on March 5, 2026 (R13745) and the Special Board meeting held on March 13, 2026 (R13751) by a unanimous 7-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Cornelius Sawyer, a resident representative for RAD and Section 8 voucher holders, reported that concerned residents from Scattered Sites had raised issues about a lack of resident representation and the absence of elections since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Discussion Items Employment Contract for Secretary-Executive Director (R13752) - Assistant City Attorney Greg Kruse and Senior HR Business Partner Todd Slusar reviewed the terms of the employment contract for Harold Ince, Jr. as the new Secretary-Executive Director. - The Board moved into closed session at 4:10 PM under Wis. Stats. §19.85(1)(c) and (e) to discuss employment data and legal matters, reconvening at 4:30 PM. - The board then voted unanimously (7-0) to adopt the resolution approving the contract. Contract Awards for Construction (R13753, R13754, R13755) Three construction contracts under the 2024 Capital Funds Program were approved: - Elevator modernization at Hillside Terrace – Awarded to William Sackerson Construction Co. Inc. (Cudahy, WI) for $574,606 (7-0). - Facade repair at Hillside Terrace – Awarded to Berglund Construction Company (Milwaukee, WI) for $224,500 (7-0). - Facade repair at Arlington Court – Awarded to Masonry Restoration, Inc. (West Allis, WI) for $449,000 (6-0-1, Commissioner Snyder abstained). - Commissioner Snyder asked about bids; Alison Woznicki (Travaux VP of Construction) noted four bids were received. Masonry Restoration’s bid was $40,000 lower than Berglund, a Milwaukee-based firm. She explained federal funding requires the lowest responsive bid. Sale of Scattered Sites Property (R13756) - The Board approved the sale of a four-bedroom home at 1302 S 21st Street to Orvix, LLC for $111,000, which is $7,000 over its appraised value. The property has been vacant since 2024. - Jeannie Dawson (Special Projects) presented the offer. Commissioners Moore and Yepez Klassen raised concerns about the buyer’s intentions and the lack of requirements for affordable housing or local ownership. Staff noted that non-profit developers had passed on the property due to high repair costs and that HUD requires market-rate sale. Commissioner Moore urged future listings be marketed more broadly to local residents and emerging developers. Staff also indicated another property (4331 N 69th St) could be listed similarly and requested board direction on future sales processes. Impact of Common Council Resolution 251634 (R13758) - Attorney Kruse explained the City of Milwaukee Common Council passed a resolution prohibiting the use of city-owned properties for civil immigration enforcement staging. Since HACM properties (except the main office at 809 Building) are not owned or controlled by the city, the resolution does not directly apply to HACM. - Vice Chair Gotzler suggested the Board consider a similar resolution for HACM properties. Commissioner Snyder noted the term "controlled by" could be ambiguous, but agreed further discussion is needed. No action was taken at this meeting. Capital Fund Program Summary (R13759) - Alison Woznicki presented the five-year Public Housing Capital Fund Program summary. - 2022 CFP: Nearly $850,000 in funds are expected to be expended by May 11, 2026, with appliance deliveries soon. - 2023 CFP: Fully obligated. - 2024 CFP: Obligation deadline is critical. The three contracts approved at this meeting contribute to the obligation. Because bids came in lower than estimates, HACM requested a two-year extension from HUD to use the remaining funds. - 2025-2027 CFPs: Summaries provided with estimated amounts obligated to date. Staff continues planning projects with designers to meet future deadlines. - Commissioner Yepez Klassen asked if under-budget funds could be set aside for contingencies; Woznicki said change orders would be accounted for. Travaux Board Meeting Documents (R13760) - Ken Barbeau (Interim Secretary-Executive Director) summarized the March 26, 2026 Travaux Board meeting, which included updates on capital fund activities and work at Highland Gardens. Recurring documents reflected no significant changes. Secretary-Executive Director’s Report (R13761) Ken Barbeau, along with property management, maintenance, and HR staff, delivered a comprehensive report focused on unit vacancies and turnaround, public safety, and Housing Choice Voucher program updates. - Vacancy Data and Unit Turn Process: - Public Housing (over 2,300 units): 251 vacant (10.85% vacancy). Of these, 50 are ready for lease and 22 have applications. Highest vacancies at Locust Court, Hillside Terrace, and College Court. - Affordable Housing (under 1,800 units): 236 vacant (12.3% vacancy). Of these, 69 are ready and 39 have applications. - Anissia Robertson (Property Management Director) and Mike Wellman (Maintenance Director) described the current move-out/make-ready process, which begins only after keys are returned. Commissioners strongly urged a proactive approach, including starting maintenance and voucher processing upon receiving notice of vacate. - The Board requested a revised written plan with timelines, vacancy aging data, and specific improvement measures to be presented at the May 2026 meeting. - CVR Associates Report (Tracy Sheffield, Tina Royalty): - PBV Process: Recommended property managers specify bedroom sizes when requesting referrals. Suggested early notification of vacancies via bi-weekly leasing meetings. - Recertifications: Advanced process (proactive lists) decreased incomplete workflows from 507 to 307 in five weeks. Late recertification backlog reduced from 1,200 in December 2025 to 891 in March 2026, a 65% reduction from a peak of 2,700. - New RFTA Packet: A draft Request for Tenancy Approval packet has been developed to improve accurate and timely processing for tenants and landlords. - Technology Efficiency: A new API integrated with AffordableHousing.com processed 300 rent reasonableness determinations in 20 minutes, a major improvement over 40 minutes each manually. - SEMAP Score: FY2025 score missed "Standard Performer" by one percentage point. All indicators show improvement in early 2026; corrective actions and maps for expanding housing opportunities are expected to secure full points next year. - Public Safety Report (Chief Marlon Davis): - Calls for service decreased 19% (from 408 to 329) and officer-initiated activities decreased 26% (875 to 642) since March meeting, attributed to staffing adjustments. - Package Theft Mitigation: Secure package rooms with cameras and badge access implemented at Highland Gardens and Arlington Court (latter opened in March, low cost). Incidents are low (8 reported this year). - Cost Reduction: $20,000/month savings achieved by adjusting security contractor hours at Westlawn Gardens based on data. - Teen Takeover Prevention: Proactively deployed patrols and coordinated with Milwaukee Police District 4 to monitor potential hotspots during spring break; no incidents occurred. - Chief Davis introduced new team members: Captain Nicole McDade (operations), Officer Tylen Harris (new on April 8), and Sergeant Tramel Wiggins (former DOC, noon-8PM supervisor). - Asset Management Plan: No changes from previous quarter. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved (7-0). - Employment contract for Harold Ince Jr. approved (7-0). - Construction contracts awarded for elevator modernization and facade repairs (7-0, 7-0, 6-0-1). - Property sale at 1302 S 21st Street approved (7-0); staff directed to enhance future listing transparency. - Common Council Resolution 251634 discussed; no immediate action but board will explore a parallel resolution for HACM. - Capital Fund extension request pending with HUD; board received program summaries. - Vacancy reduction plan demanded: staff must present a comprehensive plan at the May 2026 meeting including vacancy aging, triage, and staffing analysis. - CVR and Public Safety reports received with positive progress noted; continued collaboration with city data sources encouraged. - Meeting adjourned at 7:30 PM.

On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee convened at 9:10 a.m. in Room 301-B of City Hall, Milwaukee. All five members (Ald. Bauman, Stamper, Coggs, Jackson, Spiker) were present. The committee reviewed 18 agenda items, including reappointments, an ordinance on emergency order fees, tax increment district amendments, a parking structure RFP, an apartment project update, and multiple property sale-backs. Key outcomes included recommendations for confirmation, passage, and adoption, as well as holds for further discussion. Consent Calendar - Reappointment of Lashawndra Vernon (File 252114) to the Bronzeville Advisory Committee: Recommended for confirmation (3-0, with Ald. Stamper and Coggs excused). - Reappointment of Rayhainio Boynes (File 252115) to the Bronzeville Advisory Committee: Recommended for confirmation (3-0, with Ald. Stamper and Coggs excused). - Sale-back to Estate of Robert J. Arts (File 252017) for 1330 West Euclid Avenue: Recommended for adoption (5-0). - Sale-back to Millionaire Enterprise Group, LLC (File 252018) for 2839 North 21st Street: Recommended for adoption (5-0). - Sale-back to Global Estates, LLC (File 252019) for 2845-47 North 27th Street: Recommended for adoption (5-0). - Sale-back to E & K Capitol Holdings, LLC (File 252021) for 4177 North 19th Place: Recommended for adoption (5-0). - Sale-back to E & K Capitol Holdings, LLC (File 252022) for 4516-18 West Keefe Avenue: Recommended for adoption (5-0). - Sale-back to Michael & Viviana Resnick (File 252024) for 5262 North 50th Street: Recommended for adoption (5-0). - Sale-back to Global Estates, LLC (File 252057) for 1408 West Concordia Avenue: Recommended for adoption (5-0). - Sale-back to Shaunte S. Haynes (File 252058) for 3882 North Teutonia Avenue: Recommended for adoption (5-0). - File 241553 (Cesar E. Chavez TIF District) and File 251723 (sale at 4016-A West Silver Spring Drive): Placed on file as no longer necessary (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Jesse Byam-Katzman (resident of Historic Brewers Hill, 1843 North 2nd Street) testified on behalf of himself and neighboring property owners regarding the proposed sale-back of 1847 North 2nd Street (File 252059). He expressed concerns about the property's long history of code violations, fire risk, rodent issues, and the uncertainty of enforcement of the restoration agreement. He urged the committee to include strong enforcement mechanisms to ensure the property is improved or demolished if the owner fails to comply. Discussion Items - Item 3 – Ordinance on Emergency Order Fees (File 252103): Mike Mazmanian, Deputy Commissioner of Neighborhood Services, presented the ordinance to impose fees on landlords for the cost of posting emergency orders (e.g., no heat, no electricity). Each order requires at least three inspections. The fee aligns with existing placard posting fees. Discussion focused on fee alignment and behavior change. The committee recommended passage (3-0, with two excused). - Item 4 – TID 68 Amendment No. 5 (File 252013): Alyssa Remington (DCD) presented the amendment to add $12 million for public infrastructure, including 29 linear feet of riverwalk at 350 South Water Street, street reconstructions (South Barclay, East Menominee, West Walker, West Bruce), high-impact paving on 11 roadways, bikeway improvements on South 2nd and Virginia Streets, specialty lighting on East Florida and South Water Streets, and $1 million for commercial corridor grants. The district's current incremental value is $75 million with annual increment of $2 million. Discussion included the status of the Railroad Swing Bridge (estimated $7-10 million removal cost, heavily contaminated, conversations ongoing). The committee recommended adoption (5-0). - Item 5 – TID 60 Amendment No. 2 (File 252014): Lori Lutzka (DCD) presented the $2.1 million amendment for street improvements near the Milwaukee Intermodal Passenger Station, including high-impact paving on West St. Paul Avenue (13th to 16th Streets), traffic calming on St. Paul, West Michigan, and West Canal Streets, and bikeway improvements. The TID is expected to pay off by 2031. Discussion included traffic calming to address street takeovers on Canal Street, and the status of TID 74 (Century City) which is now producing positive increment after years of debt. The committee recommended adoption (5-0). - Item 6 – Marcus Center Parking Structure RFP (File 250966): Lafayette Crump (DCD) provided an update on ongoing conversations with developers. The market is challenging, with stalled projects and financing difficulties. The committee held the item to the call of the chair (5-0) to allow further discussions and a future framework. - Item 7 – Edison SPC Apartment Project (File 250969): Lafayette Crump updated on the privately owned site at 1005 Edison Street. The developer recently sold a Madison project at a loss, but no progress on the Milwaukee site. The construction fence remains due to a removed sidewalk. The committee considered tax foreclosure as a potential option. The item was held to the call of the chair (5-0). - Item 16 – Sale-back of 1847 North 2nd Street (File 252059): Taken out of order. DCD (Kari Smith, Deborah McCollum-Gathing) and DNS (Jumaane Cheatham) discussed the property's history, a raze order, and a restoration agreement requiring 50% of scope by August 1, 2026, with a $7,500 escrow. The property is historically designated, complicating demolition. Alderwoman Coggs expressed support but wanted clear pathways for demolition or resale if the owner fails. Jesse Byam-Katzman testified about safety concerns. The committee held the item to the call of the chair (5-0) to allow the city attorney to amend the agreement with stronger enforcement provisions. Key Outcomes - Reappointments (Items 1-2): Recommended for confirmation (3-0, two excused). - Ordinance (Item 3): Recommended for passage (3-0, two excused). - TID Amendments (Items 4-5): Recommended for adoption (5-0 each). - Marcus Center RFP (Item 6): Held to call of chair (5-0). - Edison Project (Item 7): Held to call of chair (5-0). - Sale-backs (Items 8-15): All recommended for adoption (5-0 each), except Item 16 held to call of chair (5-0). - Files placed on file (Items 17-18): Recommended for placing on file (5-0). - Next Steps: DCD to continue discussions on the Marcus Center site and Edison project, and to return with updates. The city attorney to draft amended language for the restoration agreement on 1847 North 2nd Street before final action.