Public Meetings - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee (HACM) Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 4:00 PM in City Hall Room 301-A. The board approved consent items, two major policies, and received reports on HUD compliance, evictions, occupancy, audits, public safety, and voucher program operations. Consent Calendar - R13811 – Approved the minutes of the regular Board meeting held on September 16, 2026. - R13812 – Approved the minutes of the Special Board meeting held on October 2, 2026. - R13813 – Accepted documents shared with the Travaux Board of Directors on September 24, 2026 (including occupancy and work order reports). All consent items were approved by unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Panda Lisa Riley – A 28-year HACM tenant stated she was evicted after alleging harassment, manipulation, retaliation, and denial of grievance rights. She reported a notarized 233-page grievance and a $13,000 rent and damage charge. She claimed her rights were violated under federal law and received no help from Alderwoman Moore or HUD. - One e-comment was also received and shared with commissioners. Discussion Items - R13814 – Public Listening Session – Conducted as described above; no additional speakers. - R13803 – Reasonable Accommodation Case System Policy & Procedures Manual – Presented by Harold Inns. The manual standardizes processing of disability accommodation requests, reducing compliance risk under Fair Housing Act, Section 504, and ADA. The board approved the policy unanimously after discussion about coordination with CVR (Commissioner Moore inquired). A coordinator will be named in the coming months. - R13815 – Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Maintenance, Inventory Control, and Procurement – Presented by Zaina. SOPs developed to meet HUD requirements and improve tracking of materials and equipment. Training for over 100 staff was conducted by AMA Consulting. Vice Chair Gotzler noted prior SOPs were unworkable; new ones were well-received. Unanimous approval. - R13816 – Evictions Process and Quarterly Update – Gregory Cruz (Assistant City Attorney) reported that HACM had 316 eviction referrals in 2025 and 268 in the first two quarters of 2026. Majority are non-payment cases. A six-week double-filing initiative cleared 32 extra cases. Discussion included causes of arrears (unreported income, retroactive charges) and available payment plans (limited by HUD's 40% rule). Commissioner Moore requested tracking evictions linked to unreported income. Cruz committed to exploring data capture. - R13817 – Secretary-Executive Director Report – Harold Inns summarized a HUD "Failure to Comply" letter dated October 1, 2026, citing deficiencies in maintenance procedures, inventory control, unit inspections (144 outstanding deficiencies: 2 severe, 90 moderate, 32 low), and late/missing financial statements. HACM must submit corrective information by October 31, 2026. The board discussed progress: training completed, SOPs approved, AMA Consulting engaged. Vice Chair Gotzler noted the letter reflects findings from early 2026 and that many issues have already been addressed. CFO John Larson provided an audit update: audited reports for 2022-2023 were late; 2024 audit not yet completed; forensic auditor RFP republished with bids due November 6; seven LLC audits submitted, three draft final. Staffing challenges: a controller and senior accountant expected to start in November. Zaina presented occupancy: public housing 94%, tax credit portfolio 80%, market rate 91%. Emphasis on turning vacant units faster, particularly at Highland Gardens, Fulton Terrace, Beecher Court, Merrill Park. Rent collection was stable but affected by retroactive income adjustments. - Public Safety Report – Chief Marlon Davis reported over 1,300 field activities (Sept 3–Oct 6), with proactive officer-initiated deployments up 40% and calls for service down 2.6%. Merrill Park had the highest activity due to targeted initiatives. Community engagement included pop-up events and walkthroughs with police. Commissioner Moore inquired about election preparations; Davis confirmed a deployment plan for HACM sites serving as polling places. Commissioner Elsey asked for tangible benchmarks; Davis highlighted the ratio of proactive vs. reactive calls as a key metric. - CBR (Centralized Billing & Rent) Report – Tracy Sheffield updated on HCV/PBV operations: new staff hired, call center performance improving, late reexams reduced to 323 (lowest yet), and on-site recertification events at developments. Weekly meetings with HACM property management are improving vacancy processing. Training ongoing for HOTMA (Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act) changes effective January 1, 2027. The board will receive 2027 payment standards and utility allowances at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda (R13811, R13812, R13813) unanimously. - Approved Reasonable Accommodation Policy (R13803) unanimously. - Approved Standard Operating Procedures (R13815) unanimously. - Received and discussed the HUD compliance letter; HACM will submit corrective response by October 31, 2026. - Received quarterly eviction update; staff to explore tracking evictions linked to unreported income. - Received occupancy, audit, public safety, and CBR reports; no votes on these items. - Meeting adjourned.

The Board of City Service Commissioners met virtually on October 20, 2026, at 1:30 PM, with President Frank Bock presiding and Commissioners Cleary, Smith, and Wick Spoerl present (Vice President Miller excused). The board unanimously approved a consent calendar of seven temporary appointment extensions, three probationary period extensions, and one position re-exemption. The main substantive discussion concerned a seasonal layoff plan for four bridge operators from the Department of Public Works, which was approved with a modification to create a separate seniority list for maintenance crew members. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The October 6, 2026, meeting minutes were approved as submitted. - Temporary Appointment Extensions (all first extensions, approved unanimously): - Bobby Phillips, Driver Training Instructor (DPW), for 6 months (Oct 19, 2026 – Apr 19, 2027). Per a letter from Tom Langeron, Director of Operations, Mr. Phillips performs critical snowplow and CDL training. - DeAndre Harsch, Jovonta Moody, Cedric Simpson, and Rodolfo Vera Perez, City Laborers (DPW), each for 6 months (various start dates from Nov 8 to Nov 22, 2026, through May 8 or May 22, 2027). The department cited vacancies in labor/equipment operator positions and the need for garbage collection and snow work coverage. - Daovien Thao, Tammy Deau, Veronica Wilson, and Laura Hernandez (DER), each for 3 months (Oct 11, 2026 – Jan 30, 2027), to support the transition to a new personnel information system (Workday). - Probationary Period Extensions (all for 6 months, approved unanimously): - Robert Brown, from Oct 28, 2026 to Apr 24, 2027; Brandon Pryor, from Oct 21, 2026 to Apr 24, 2027; Trinity McKinnie, from Oct 28, 2026 to Apr 24, 2027. All are City Laborers (DPW Infrastructure Services) whose job performance was satisfactory but who had not yet obtained a required Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). - Re-exemption of Position: The Deputy Commissioner of Clinical Services position (pay range 1PX) at the Milwaukee Health Department was re-exempted, based on a request from Health Commissioner Michael Todorovich and a supporting memo from HR Manager Kristen Hennessy Urban, citing the role’s policy leadership and representation duties. Discussion Items Seasonal Layoff Plan for Bridge Operators (File 260912) The Department of Public Works Infrastructure Services Division proposed laying off four bridge operators due to seasonal need: Jacob Hoffer (voluntary layoff out of seniority), David Robinson, Peter Marchese, and Richard Stieghorst. The department requested an efficiency-based layoff plan that would retain two junior employees (hired in 2026) who had been assigned to a maintenance crew, arguing that their training and willingness to perform maintenance work made them more efficient than more senior operators who performed only bridge operations. President Bock raised concerns that the request misapplied the “efficiency” standard in Rule 13, Section 1A of the commission’s rules, which he said was intended to compare relative performance among employees doing the same job, not to distinguish based on different job duties. He proposed an alternative: create a separate seniority list for bridge operators assigned primarily to maintenance, as had been done historically in other city departments for employees with the same title but distinct functions. Andrew Simons, HR Administration Manager for Infrastructure, and Karen Florenza, supervisor, explained that the two workers were the only ones on a new two-person maintenance crew (plus a crew leader position to be filled). They noted that the department was restructuring for 2027 to use crew leaders for maintenance work, but for the current season, retaining these trained workers was critical to avoid costly outside contracting (estimated $15,000 per bridge). Senior operators had been offered the maintenance assignments but declined. The department deferred to the commission’s judgment on the appropriate approach. After discussion, the board agreed to approve the layoff plan with the condition that the department create a second seniority list for bridge operators performing maintenance functions, thereby protecting those two employees from being laid off out of seniority. The department was not required to return for re-approval on this administrative adjustment. Key Outcomes - Consent items (items 3–12 and 14): All approved unanimously (3-0). - Bridge Operator Layoff Plan (item 13): Approved with amendment to use a separate seniority list for maintenance crew bridge operators. Motion carried 3-0. - Next Meeting: The board will meet on Wednesday, November 4, 2026 (rescheduled from Tuesday, November 3 due to the election).

The Licenses Committee of the Milwaukee Common Council convened on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 9:08 AM in Room 301-B of City Hall to review and act on over 30 license applications, renewals, and related motions. The meeting lasted until 2:51 PM. Chair Jocasta Zamarripa presided, joined by Vice-Chair Andrea Pratt, and Aldermen Alex Brower, DiAndre Jackson, and Larissa Taylor (substituting for excused Alderman Peter Burgelis). The agenda included Class D operator licenses, food dealer permits, alcohol licenses, tavern and public entertainment premises, as well as extended hours and hookah services. Consent Calendar - Routine approvals and unanimous actions were grouped into two motions at the end of the meeting: - Agenda Only Items: Approved 5-0, including floor plan changes for 3rd St Market Hall, stock transfer for Martha's Vineyard, and pool table addition for The House. - Warning Letter Items: Approved 5-0, issuing written warnings to Joseph Gesbeck, Juan Zorilla, Diamond Inn Motel, Red White and Blue, Steny's, and Taco Bell 31507. Public Comments & Testimony - Little Caesars (9230 W Capitol Dr): Ald. Westmoreland raised concerns about overflowing dumpsters, litter, and landscaping stones on sidewalks. Applicant agreed to enclose the dumpster, add more trash cans, and replace stone wall with wood. No neighbors testified; approved. - Play by Play (3910 W Fond du Lac Ave): Neighbors Hazel Johnson and Lydia Melton testified to chronic parking blockages, noise, and disrespect. Applicant presented a parking patrol plan. Committee approved a 10-day suspension and added geographic parking checks every 30 minutes after 10 PM. - Dunkin (914 N 27th St): Savannah Brooks (Near West Side Partners) testified about panhandling, loitering, and litter, and lack of cooperation. Ald. Bauman recommended a 10-day suspension. Applicant committed to monthly meetings; approved with 10-day suspension. - In N Out Grocery 2 (4503 W North Ave): Five community members supported the applicant, citing lack of food options and his community help (giving books to children). Ald. Stamper opposed due to recent police report (operating without license) and lack of property investment. Denied 5-0. - ACES (6081 N Teutonia Ave): Neighbor Gary Flowers opposed, calling it a nightclub and noting unlicensed operation. A supporter claimed social media posts were for engagement only. Ald. Pratt moved denial based on 300-foot rule to churches; denied 5-0. Discussion Items - Class D Operator Licenses: Richelle Gause, Allyson Rauls, and Charles Suetrong were denied for second nonappearance (5-0). Joy Dietrich (parking tickets) and Bruce Richardson (OWI completed program) were approved. Jonathan Kaul and Jeannette Tatum were held for first nonappearance. - Little Caesars: Renewed after addressing litter and safety concerns; agreed to enclose dumpster, add trash cans, and replace landscaping. - Brothers Petrol (2175 N 35th St): Applicant noted employee error on drug paraphernalia and recent OWI. Approved 4-1 (Zamarripa dissented due to police report concerns). - In N Out Grocery 2: Denied after police report showed unlicensed operation and recent OWI. Local alder opposed. - La Carreta Vieja Night Club: Held to call of chair at applicant's request for attorney and additional evidence. - Farfesh Cafe (200 W Layton Av): Applicant agreed to close at midnight instead of 2 AM; withdrawn extended hours application; approved. - The Seafood Shack Cocktail Lounge: Held for neighborhood meeting due to objections. - JB's on 41: Approved with amendment to increase surveillance cameras from 32 to 39. - McDonald's (2612 W Morgan Av): Application voluntarily surrendered; no action taken. - El Tenampa Mexican Grill: Approved with amended hours (Mon-Sat 11AM-11PM, Sun 7AM-3PM). - Mr. B's Restaurant: Approved with amendment to add hookah services (non-tobacco) and a warning letter. - El Malecon: Approved after removing bands and instrumental musicians per neighborhood request. - Oklahoma Liquor (933 W Oklahoma Av): Approved with amendment to add ID verification system and a warning letter for underage sale. - Play by Play: Approved with 10-day suspension and added parking patrol plan (formally every 30 minutes after 10 PM Mon-Thu, and every 30 minutes 10-11 PM and every 15 minutes 11PM-2AM Fri-Sat, geographic bounds including W Concordia, W Townsend, N 39th, N 40th, and W Fond du Lac). er- V&T Liquor (916 W Burleigh St): Approved with amendment to purchase an ID scanner; previous police report item had been addressed. - Corner Liquor (3500 N Port Washington Av): Approved with warning letter and amendment to include point-of-sale ID scanner. - Days Inn & Suites (1840 N 6th St): Approved with amendment to hold regular stakeholder meetings with Vine St businesses. - Cafe Colada (825 N Jefferson St): New application approved (Cuban coffee house). - Dunkin (914 N 27th St): Approved with 10-day suspension based on persistent nuisance and lack of engagement. - Nana Food & Grocery (959 N 27th St): Approved with warning letter after applicant committed to attending monthly meetings. - ACES: Denied based on 300-foot rule to churches/daycares (5-0). Key Outcomes - Denials: - Class D operators Gause, Rauls, Suetrong (second nonappearance). - In N Out Grocery 2 (5-0). - Elephant TKB (second nonappearance). - ACES (5-0, 300-foot rule). - Suspensions: - Play by Play: 10-day suspension (3-2 vote; Zamarripa, Brower, Jackson in favor; Pratt, Taylor opposed). - Dunkin: 10-day suspension (unanimous). - Approvals with Conditions: Many licenses were renewed or granted with operational amendments, such as adding ID scanners, modifying hours, increasing patrols, or requiring community engagement. - Next Steps: All approved and denied recommendations will be forwarded to the Common Council for final consideration on November 4, 2026. Applicants may file written exceptions by October 29, 2026, and may appear before the Council. - Meeting Adjourned: 2:51 PM.

The City Plan Commission met on Monday, October 19, 2026 at 1:30 PM in a hybrid format at 809 N. Broadway, 1st Floor Boardroom, Milwaukee, WI. Commissioners present: Nemec, Gonzalez, Washington, Bloomingdale, Moody, Crane. Commissioner Smith was excused. The single substantive agenda item was a public hearing on a substitute ordinance requiring the Board of Zoning Appeals (BOZA) to notify the local alderperson and the Department of Neighborhood Services (DNS) within 15 days of an expired zoning appeal. Consent Calendar - Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes (September 28, 2026): Approved unanimously without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - India Gaar (BOZA Administrative Manager): Stated that her office will work with IT to extract reports for the required notifications and had no objections to the ordinance. - President Jose Perez (12th Aldermanic District): Expressed strong support for the ordinance, noting it addresses public safety concerns related to uses operating beyond their approved term. He highlighted an example of an expired occupancy from 2018 in his district and emphasized the need for timely notification to enforce compliance. - Alderman DiAndre Jackson (7th Aldermanic District): Supported the ordinance, sharing that 22 businesses in his district were out of compliance. He stressed that the notification would allow alderpersons to bring issues to renewal hearings and help businesses stay compliant rather than shutting them down. Discussion Items - Substitute Ordinance (File 260563): Sponsored by Ald. Perez, Ald. Westmoreland, and Ald. Jackson. The ordinance requires BOZA to notify both the local common council member and DNS within 15 days whenever a zoning appeal (special use, variance, or dimensional variation) expires. The notification must include case number, type, applicant name, and location. The ordinance was reviewed by the Zoning Code Technical Committee on September 24, 2026, which found it met criteria of legality, enforceability, administrative efficiency, and consistency. - Commissioners inquired about current notification processes. Ms. Gaar explained that previously DNS sent notifications, but those programs were discontinued due to budget reasons. The new ordinance would provide a proactive mechanism. Ald. Perez noted the goal is to shorten occupancy lifespans to allow more frequent renewals and better neighborhood oversight. Key Outcomes - Motion to Recommend Passage (6-0): Commissioner Crane moved to close the public hearing and recommend passage of the ordinance, seconded by Commissioner Washington. The motion prevailed 6-0 (Nemec, Gonzalez, Washington, Bloomingdale, Moody, Crane voting aye; Smith excused). The ordinance is assigned to the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee. - Meeting adjourned at 1:49 PM.

The Joint Committee on Redevelopment of Abandoned and Foreclosed Homes met at 10:00 a.m. on October 16, 2026, in City Hall Room 301-B. Ald. Robert Bauman chaired; roll call included Ald. Russell Stamper, Jr. by assistant, Larry Kilmer, and Spencer Coggs. Department of City Development, Department of Neighborhood Services, and City Attorney's Office staff delivered informational reports on housing programs, demolition, and litigation. No public comments were offered. Call to Order and Minutes Approval - The committee approved the October 20, 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous voice vote. Housing Infrastructure Preservation Fund - DCD staff reported $408,798 remained in the Housing Infrastructure Preservation Fund and described five properties being marketed: 2712-14 West McKinley, 3031-33 West McKinley, 2825 West State Street, 2457 Congress, and 743 North 25th Street. The 743 North 25th Street property went on the market October 5, with bids due November 9. - Three historic commercial properties are also being worked on: 1115 East Brady has a buyer; 2673-79 North Martin Luther King Drive is in proposal negotiations; and 2249 North Humboldt is still seeking a viable buyer. - Two newly acquired properties, a duplex at 648-40 West Pierce Street and a commercial property at 2925 West Clybourn, will need future investment. External repair bids for 2712-14 West McKinley exceeded $200,000 and were rejected; an interested buyer is seeking historic tax credits. - DCD said it uses the fund either to rehabilitate houses before sale or to provide post-sale grant incentives, and it has increased marketing for hard-to-sell properties. Lease-to-Own Program - DCD reported the lease-to-own program is effectively defunct because state statute 75.69 requires properties to be listed at appraised value, limiting the city's ability to offer below-market prices to tenants. - No active lease-to-own deals remain; prior deals were completed before the statute change, and the remaining pre-statute residential inventory is about 10 to 15 properties. - DCD plans to use listing brokers for initial pricing in 2027 so properties are not priced too high, which could eventually allow the lease-to-own model to restart. DCD has encouraged ACT Housing to apply to become a listing broker and to use its lending arm to work with prospective owners. - Staff clarified that the former program worked only with existing tenants who came with tax-foreclosed properties, not by placing tenants in vacant homes. Strong Home Loan Program - Benjamin Sanchez, DCD housing programs manager, reported year-to-date 2026: 34 fully approved loans, $706,000 in obligations, and 80 applications in process. - The program provides emergency and essential home repair loans. Most borrowers are below 60 percent area median income and receive deferred-payment loans with no monthly payment or interest while they remain in the home. The maximum loan is $25,000; the average is about $18,000; up to $5,000 can be forgiven after 10 years of ownership and completed work. - The proposed 2027 executive budget includes $1 million for the program, which Sanchez said should be adequate. Loan repayments go to the city's general fund; the program is not a revolving loan fund. A one-time sale of a loan tranche to Associated Bank provided CRA credits but did not create an ongoing private portfolio. Homes MKE Program - Sanchez reported the Homes MKE rehab program expects to complete 104 properties by the end of the program, including about 11 rent-to-own properties, just over 10 percent of the portfolio. Seventeen homes are under construction, 14 of which are in the final draw. - The program has expended $3.8 million in 2026 and must spend all remaining funds by the end of 2026. The original appropriation was $15 million; Sanchez said program spending is a little over $13 million, while Larry Kilmer added that total program cost landed around $14.5 million. - Average per-unit subsidy is about $110,000 to $120,000. The average third-quarter sale price was about $195,000; the overall program average was $167,900. The program is open to buyers at any income level. - Asked about the earlier estimate that gut rehabs cost about 70 percent of new construction, Sanchez said he would not rely on that percentage because the Metropolitan Sewerage District also invested funds separately, and subsidies were comparable to new construction. - For 2027, DCD proposed $1,127,950 for continued Homes MKE activity from three prior TID extension sources: $100,000 left over from the 2021 allocation, $500,000 originally set aside for August 2025 flood relief that was not needed after FEMA support, and about $527,950 in greater-than-anticipated revenue from four TIDs that closed this year. This funding would require separate council action outside the budget. - DCD called 2027 a maintenance year, with existing staff absorbing the work after ARPA-funded positions end. Down Payment Assistance Program - Sanchez reported the Milwaukee Home Down Payment Assistance program, administered with ACT Housing, Housing Resources Incorporated, and UCC, had helped 200 first-time homebuyers through the third quarter of 2026. - The program awarded $1.243 million; 65 percent of purchases were in CDBG areas, 94 percent of assisted buyers identified as people of color, average family income was about $54,100, and average family size was three. - The city's proposed 2027 contribution is $1.4 million. Other resources include Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago programs, the state housing cost reduction initiative, private closing-cost assistance, and philanthropic efforts. Northwestern Mutual Foundation and BMO Harris were cited as current or potential partners. Revive Housing Development and New Construction - Sanchez reported DCD completed an RFQ process and selected four development teams instead of the planned three for the attached housing pilot: Community First with Vera Property Management and Engberg Anderson Architects; Moxie Development Collective with Sean Myers Architect; Unite Wisconsin with M Group and Dream Builders; and VSCDC Development Corporation with BMR Design Group. - The pilot targets about 20 new units on city-owned vacant lots, partially funded by the 2025 Pro Housing grant. Development teams are due to submit final 100 percent design concepts on October 21, 2026; designs include two-, three-, and four-unit attached homes. Preliminary concepts show Community First proposing six units, Moxie four, Unite Wisconsin four, and VSCDC six. - Current funding is about $2.9 million, including about $1.3 million in Pro Housing funds matched with 2026 local funds. The 2027 mayor's proposed budget includes $1 million more through the Homeownership Development Fund. Subsidy estimates were originally $90,000 to $110,000 per unit and may rise to preserve affordability. - DCD said Pro Housing funds must be fully expended and units completed by the end of 2028; construction could begin in spring 2027 with possible delivery later that year. - Sam Likling of DCD described the broader 2027 housing budget as balanced between $1 million for new construction and $1.1 million for rehab. He noted additional off-budget TID strategies, including three backbone TIDs expected to create 188 new homes, plus housing funds in Bronzeville and King Park/PAPS TID amendments. DNS Compliance Loan Program - Cassandra Tyler, DNS compliance loan coordinator, reported the program is 100 percent funded at $1 million in capital funds and aims for 55 projects per year. In 2026, 43 projects were completed with $933,200 in approved loans; average loan $21,702, average owner age 65, average household income $27,042, average occupancy 20 years, and average property assessment $134,000. Six projects were pending completion. - Eleven approved waitlist projects and 14 pending applications are expected to carry into 2027. For 2025, DNS approved 51 loans totaling $962,183. - Tyler and DNS leadership said the program currently relies on two contractors, down from four, and has an open bid process for additional contractors. Chairman Bauman raised quality and safety concerns about work performed at 845 North 29th Street, showing video of contractors working from tall ladders and using brooms for surface preparation. Staff said inspectors verify code compliance but do not manage projects, and contractor capacity and skill remain challenges. DCD described contractor training events and coaching of homeowners on bid review. Demolition and Deconstruction - DNS Deputy Commissioner Mike Masmania and Construction Trades Division Manager Jason Golok reported 17 properties have been razed in 2026 under raze violations, 30 are under bid awaiting demolition, five bid packages contain 27 parcels, and two more bid packages contain six parcels. - All raze permits, including voluntary demolitions, totaled 233 applications started in 2026; 203 permits were issued and 77 demolitions completed through late September. DPW is estimated to complete 35 demolitions in 2026, with capacity for about 19 more depending on weather and snow operations. The 2027 estimate is 55 demolitions. - DNS is revising the deconstruction ordinance and plans to bring a proposal to the committee this winter, with a broader salvage and recycling approach. Neighborhood Revitalization Litigation - City Attorney Evan Goickey said the office has rebuilt its neighborhood revitalization team and coordinates with DNS, the health department, and MPD. - The Highgrove litigation involves a nuisance action against 138 North Side properties; corporate owners filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy about 24 hours before a foreclosure action was likely. The city is appearing in bankruptcy court, where proceedings are slow and opaque. - The city has about 10 additional pending circuit court nuisance cases against single properties or small portfolios with long noncompliance records. Goickey cited a WISN story from October 9, 2026, on a fenced outdoor junkyard at 41st and Burleigh as an example where the city filed for a receiver. He flagged owner identification and service of process problems with LLCs and disappearing registered agents as issues needing policy attention. Key Outcomes - The committee approved the October 20, 2025 minutes unanimously. - All informational reports were received; no policy votes were taken on the housing programs, budget recommendations, demolition plans, or litigation update. - DCD and DNS committed to continue work on 2027 budget allocations, lease-to-own pricing changes, contractor recruitment, and a revised deconstruction ordinance.

The Finance & Personnel Committee heard presentations and discussed the proposed 2027 budgets for all six divisions of the Department of Public Works (DPW). The meeting convened at 9:05 AM, recessed at 12:29 PM, reconvened at 12:47 PM, and adjourned at 4:14 PM. The committee voted 5-0 to hold the communication from the mayor (File 260001) to the call of the chair, meaning no action was taken, but the item remains available for future consideration. Discussion Items DPW Water Works - Budget increase of 10% ($17.3 million) driven largely by the expansion of lead service line replacement. - Lead service line replacement: 3,329 replaced in 2025; on pace for 5,000 in 2026; goal of 5,500 per year under federal regulations. - Water main breaks: 2025 and 2026 have seen more breaks than the previous five years combined. - Public Service Commission rate case: Likely result in a 30% increase for residential customers (about $22 more per quarter). - Fluoride supply: Shortage due to national market uncertainty; dosage reduced but interim vendor secured. - Fire hydrant standards: Concern about hydrant setback from curb; request for data on hydrants not meeting standard. - Water disconnections: Committee requested data on number and reasons for shutoffs in 2026. DPW Infrastructure - Operating budget: $54.4 million, up 4%. - Street repair: 5 lane miles of local road reconstruction, 74 lane miles of high-impact paving, 12.3 lane miles of major road work planned. - Pothole backlog: Equipment investments include two asphalt recycler trailers and one road patcher; training challenges acknowledged. - Street lighting: LED conversion nearing completion (100% of convertible circuits done by end of 2026); 29% of lighting still on series circuitry, which cannot accept LEDs. Electrician positions cut (9 funded, 19 auxiliary) due to long-standing vacancies. - Municipal Services Building: Relocation to 3282 N. 35th St. estimated to cost $44 million, compared to $73 million to stay in current sinking facility. - Cherry Street Bridge: Expected to reopen by end of 2026. DPW Sewer Maintenance Fund - Budget increase of 4% ($3.5 million). - Green infrastructure: $3 million city allocation – largest ever – for bioswales, permeable pavers, and coordinated road projects. - Flood mitigation: 2025 and 2026 storm events prompted joint city/MMSD task force; major storm sewer extension under Sherman Boulevard being studied. - Alley reconstruction: 6-7 alleys planned for 2027; concerns about replacement cycle (400 years) and equity across districts. - Tree pruning: $400,000 new capital account to reduce wait times for service requests from 3-6 months to 1-2 months. DPW Administrative Services - Budget increase of 2% ($83,000). - New Financial Services Director hired to centralize finance and improve efficiencies. - No fee increases for block parties or special events; committee requested 2025 and 2026 block party data. - Easement and pole knockdown recovery: City recovers about 50% of knockdown costs. DPW Operations (Sanitation, Fleet, Forestry) - Budget increase of 5% ($5.4 million). - Leaf collection: Three options – mulching, raking to curb (mechanical), or paper bags. Bagged leaves must be in paper bags; plastic not accepted. Self-help center fees increase 35% (targeting contractors, not individual households). - Second cart fee: $20.92 per quarter for additional garbage cart; 93,977 second carts in use. - Forestry: Average 3-6 month wait for pruning service requests; capital pruning program aims to cut to 1.5-2 months. Youth apprenticeships: 5-6 participants per year; two hired into full-time positions. - Fleet: Telematics (Samsara) installed on all DPW vehicles; pilot on snow routes. 57 fully electric vehicles (up 17 from 2025), 37 Level 2 chargers (up 20). DPW Transportation Fund - Proposed $6 million transfer to capital fund for road repair, funded by revenue increases from parking citations ($3 million), permits ($2.5 million), and meters ($500,000). - Parking citations: Projected to write 550,000 in 2026 and 575,000 in 2027, up from 396,000 in 2024. Revenue projected at $21 million in 2027 (adopted 2026 budget was $14 million). - Doubling of overnight parking permit fee (to $55/year) proposed. - Streetcar: Net cost about $7.5 million; record ridership of 3.7 million through August 2026. Advertising RFP to be issued to offset costs. - Dockless scooter fee: City to renegotiate contract for 2028; committee members requested input on fees and enforcement. - Comptroller advised caution on transfer, preferring to see multiple years of audited financials before taking money from a fund with a $32 million accumulated cash deficit. Key Outcomes - Motion to hold File 260001 to call of the chair passed unanimously (5-0). - Committee members made numerous data requests, including: - Water disconnection numbers and reasons (2026) - Fire hydrant curb distance compliance - Total deferred maintenance citywide - High-impact streets lane miles - LED conversion data and street lighting circuit replacements by aldermanic district - Alley reconstruction projects in the 11th District - Block party counts (2025 and 2026) - Demographics of habitual parking offenders and citation issuance patterns - No amendments were made during the hearing; amendments may be proposed before final council action.

The Fire and Police Commission (FPC) held its regular meeting on October 15, 2026, chaired by Vice-Chair Krissie Fung in the absence of Chair Miriam Horwitz. The meeting featured extensive public testimony regarding a recent high-profile use-of-force incident involving MPD and the release of the FPC's initial audit of the Milwaukee Police Department's Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) program. The board also acted on numerous personnel matters, including appointments, promotions, and reappointments. Consent Calendar - FPC212731: Approval of the October 1, 2026 meeting minutes. - FPC212732: Referral for an examination and eligible list for a Forensic Ballistic Specialist. - FPC212733: Job announcement bulletin for a Building Maintenance Supervisor. - FPC212734: Job announcement bulletin for a Crime Analyst I. Adopted by general consent. Public Comments & Testimony (A) Regarding the Arrest and Use of Force Against Nicholas Beaman, Jada Barry, and Kennedy Gray - Asia White (Community Member): Expressed outrage over the beating of handcuffed individuals, demanding the FPC "pick a side" and hold officers accountable, stating the incident evoked historical racial violence. - Angela Lang (BLOC): Demanded the firing and charging of the officers involved and the immediate release of body camera footage. Argued that demands for surveillance technology are linked to the ability to commit violence with impunity. - Hippa Mohammed: Connected the incident to calls to ban ALPRs and foreign police training exchanges, specifically Chief Norman's trip to Israel, which she argued fosters a culture of violence. - Nicholas X. Doherty (Milwaukee Turners): Called the beating inhumane and a legacy of slavery, demanding community control of police and an end to Flock cameras. - Nicole Beaman (Sister of Nicholas): Refuted claims of the victim reaching for a firearm while handcuffed, demanding the officers be fired and body camera footage released immediately. - Valerie (Mother of Jada Barry): Described the incident from her daughter's account, demanding justice, transparency, and the immediate release of body camera footage. - Alan Chevoya: Called for community control of the police and the amendment of SOP 575 to classify strikes by officers as critical incidents. - Casey Serrano: Cited a pattern of critical incidents and demanded the FPC restore oversight powers lost under Act 12. (B) Regarding the ALPR Audit and Surveillance - Emilio De Torre (Milwaukee Turners): Commended the thoroughness of the audit but noted the MPD risk manager was unable to answer approximately 30 questions. Questioned the FPC's ability to issue effective directives. - Dr. Emily Stirk (League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County): Called on the FPC to recommend the Common Council not renew the Flock Safety contract, citing risks to privacy and civil liberties. - Alex Larson: Detailed how the audit revealed gaps in oversight, including a lack of logging for data exports and raised concerns about side-door access for federal agencies. Discussion Items FPC ALPR Audit Report (FPC212735) FPC Auditor Michael McConaughey presented the findings of the initial interview phase of the ALPR audit, organized around eight key objectives. The report identified five priority action items for MPD to address by January 1, 2027: appointing a program administrator, creating written criteria for misuse vs. clerical errors, training officers on legal standards for acting on ALPR alerts, improving reporting codes for stops, and formalizing data analysis for camera placement. Commissioners discussed the audit's limitations, notably its reliance on a single interview. Chair Fung expressed concern over the lack of logging for data exports, heavy reliance on the vendor, and the absence of empirical evidence demonstrating the system's effectiveness. MPD Chief of Staff Heather Huff responded that the audit was based on an incomplete picture and defended the department's internal audit processes and the work of Risk Manager James Lewis. She asserted the city owns its data contractually and committed to further collaboration with the FPC on future audit phases. The audit team and MPD agreed on the need for broader interviews and a deeper data analysis. MPD Standard Operating Procedure Changes (FPC212736) Chief of Staff Huff and Inspector Sharon De Grant presented updates to two SOPs. SOP 530 (Nuisance Premises) was updated to require a monthly reporting process at the district level. SOP 785 (Sponsorship of Non-Department Members) updated administrative software language and added U.S. work and student visas as acceptable identification. Department of Emergency Communications Organizational Structure (FPC212737) Manager Andrew Cochran presented a policy formally codifying the organizational structure and chain of command of the DEC following its separation from MPD. FPC Executive Director Report on Staffing & Operations (FPC212750) Executive Director Leon Todd reported on a new recruiter, new vacancies for a Test Administration Coordinator and Human Resources Assistant, and the final police officer recruit class of the year (57 candidates, starting December 7th). Discussion included the audit unit's capacity to handle the investigative workload. Key Outcomes - FPC ALPR Audit Next Steps: MPD was formally requested to provide a written response to the audit recommendations within 30–60 days. The audit team will conduct a walkthrough of the MPD Fusion Center to further investigate ALPR operations. - Personnel Actions Approved (Roll Call): Reappointment of a former Fire Lieutenant (Item 10); Promotions of 3 to Police Sergeant (Item 12); Promotions of 2 to Detective (Item 13); Appointments of 57 Police Officers (Item 14); Promotions of 8 to Crime Scene Investigator II (Item 15); Promotions of 2 to Police Records Specialist II (Item 16); Waiver of FPC Rule XI for a Police Aide (Item 17) with a directive to draft a permanent rule change; Reappointment of a former Police Officer (Item 18). - Personnel Actions Approved (Voice Vote): Reappointment of a former recruit firefighter (Item 11); Reappointment of former Police Officer Recruits (Item 20); Voluntary Demotion of a Police Officer (Item 21). - Personnel Action Placed on File: The reappointment request of a former Police Officer (Item 19) was placed on file, effectively denying the request. - Consent Calendar: All items (Minutes and job bulletins) adopted by general consent.

The Fire and Police Commission (FPC) held an executive session on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 4:30 PM in City Hall, Room 301-A, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to consider two reappointment requests. Commissioners Burgos, Evans, Spence, World-Patterson, and Fung were present; Commissioners Horwitz, Ramey, and Snyder were excused. Vice-Chair Fung chaired the meeting in Chair Horwitz's absence. Executive Director Leon Todd also attended. No minutes were available. Attendance and Convening - Present: Commissioners Burgos, Evans, Spence, World-Patterson, and Fung (the transcript names "Commissioner Fong," while the agenda lists Krissie Fung; these appear to refer to the same commissioner). - Excused: Commissioners Horwitz, Ramey, and Snyder. - Staff present: Executive Director Leon Todd. Closed Session Motion - A motion was made and seconded to convene in closed session under Wis. Stat. § 19.85(1)(c) to consider employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data of public employees. - The motion concerned two items: FPC212738, relating to the reappointment request of a former Fire Lieutenant, and FPC212748, relating to the reappointment request of a former Police Officer (MB). - No discussion was held before the vote. Key Outcomes - The board voted unanimously to enter closed session, with all present commissioners voting aye, no opposed votes, and no abstentions. - The reappointment requests were then considered in closed session. The agenda noted that the board might reconvene in open session during its regular meeting concerning these items, but no such reconvening or public action is recorded in the available transcript.

The Finance & Personnel Committee, chaired by Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, convened on October 14, 2026, to conduct its 2027 budget hearings. The meeting began at 9:08 AM and featured presentations and discussions on the proposed budgets for the Mayor's Office, Department of Administration, Department of Compliance & Engagement, and Department of Community Wellness & Safety. The meeting recessed for lunch and concluded at 4:57 PM with a unanimous vote to hold the communication item until the call of the chair. Public Comments & Testimony - The City of Milwaukee Equal Rights Commission formally opposed the consolidation of the Equal Rights Specialist and ADA Coordinator positions in the Department of Compliance & Engagement, urging the city to maintain separate, dedicated full-time roles. Director Mary Reed acknowledged the opposition but stated the department did not oppose the Council's decision on the matter. Discussion Items Mayor's Office Chief of Staff Nick DeSiato and Budget Director Nick Kovac presented the Mayor's $2.3 million proposed budget (a 7% increase). Discussion included fiscal solvency advocacy at the state level, proactive litigation strategies, constituent customer service challenges (including the Accela system), AI governance, contingency planning for changes to Act 10 and Act 12, lead service line replacement progress, and organizational leadership accountability. Members requested data on the adopt-a-school program, lobbyist priorities, and the Accela upgrade timeline. Department of Administration Director Danielle Rodriguez presented the DOA budget, highlighting a 10% overall increase driven heavily by ITMD. Topics included the Workday implementation status, IT server consolidation, cybersecurity initiatives, the Office of Innovation's staffing (Bloomberg fellow), the Office of African American Affairs' programming evaluation, intergovernmental relations strategy, and the procurement process for new fire apparatus. The committee requested a comprehensive org chart, an inventory of unspent 2026 programs not funded in 2027, and details on the solar project at the airport landfill. Department of Compliance & Engagement Director Mary Reed presented the DCE budget. A central topic was the proposed consolidation of the Equal Rights Specialist and ADA Coordinator roles. Alderwoman Andrea Pratt, a former Equal Rights Specialist, supported the consolidation based on her experience. Additional discussion focused on the AI-powered DirectConnectMKE platform, Resident Preference Program (RPP) metrics and retention goals, SBE certifications, staffing vacancies, and the department's search for a unified physical office space. Department of Community Wellness & Safety Director Karin Tyler presented the DCWS budget, which sees a significant increase on the property tax levy due to the expiration of ARPA and Recast grants. The committee emphasized the need for robust program evaluation and a 2028 grant sustainability plan. Discussions covered the violence interruption RFP timeline, summer youth activation results, the Bridge Project guaranteed income program, the Alert Neighbor program, and the necessity for improved direct communication with council members regarding district-specific violent incidents and follow-up. Key Outcomes - Action: The committee voted 5-0 to HOLD the communication (Item 260001) to the Call of the Chair. - Data Requests: The committee made numerous formal data requests to inform the budget amendment process, including: - Proper constituent service contact information for departments. - Adopt-a-school participation data and hours served. - Staff org charts from all departments. - Report on any 2026 programs unspent and not funded in 2027. - Number of city social media accounts and monetization status. - OAAA driver's education program and assessment survey details. - Solar project details at the airport landfill. - Timeline of the fire apparatus procurement process. - Duration and demographics of RPP certified workers on development projects. - Listing of DCWS grant options, applications made, and a 2028 sustainability plan. - Retrospective reporting on ARPA allocations. - Report on youth participation and results from summer activation efforts. - Listing and expense data for violence prevention contracts.