Public Meetings - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The Licenses Committee of the City of Milwaukee met on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 9:03 a.m. in Room 301-B of City Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Jocasta Zamarripa and adjourned at 12:36 p.m. All five members were present: Zamarripa, Vice-Chair Andrea Pratt, Peter Burgelis, Alex Brower, and DiAndre Jackson. The sole agenda item was File 260462, a motion relating to the committee's recommendations on several license applications, renewals, and amendments. The committee considered a total of 16 license matters, including renewals, new applications, and requests for amendments. Public Comments & Testimony - Joanna Bautch (VIA CDC Executive Director and neighbor) expressed no concerns with the operation of US Petro but urged the applicant to address a boarded-up property at 2709 W Lincoln Ave, which she described as a persistent nuisance. - Brisa Van Galen (VIA DCD Economic Development Director) echoed concerns about the same property, noting that three neighbors had complained and that efforts to contact the owner had failed. - Officer Walker (Community Liaison Officer, District 7) testified against extended hours for Options Restaurant & Lounge due to high crime and the incident where six guns were confiscated. - Marleny Richiez (2636 N Oakland Ave) supported renewal for Oakland Cafe, stating that the applicant had agreed to clean the area daily and improve communication with neighbors. - Isaac Hamilton (Chosen Generation Ministries, 5174 N 35th St) opposed the Venom application, citing issues with a nearby bar and concerns about attracting criminal behavior. - Bryan Rant (Villard Avenue BID 19) opposed Venom, referencing past problems (trash, reckless driving, a homicide) from the previous Cheetah Club and noting nearby schools, a library, and a daycare. - Kate Thompson (Stainless Foundry and Engineering Inc, 5150 N 35th St) opposed Venom, citing safety concerns for her 150 employees who park on surrounding streets and work multiple shifts. - Eric Tapper (Pellitteri Waste Systems) opposed Venom, raising parking and traffic issues for large vehicles entering and leaving his facility. - Greg Kickbush (5045 N 35th St) opposed Venom, describing 20 years of problems from the previous club (broken glass, break-ins, gunfire) and questioning accountability if issues recur. Discussion Items - Ebenezer Auto & Repair (4440 W Forest Home Ave): Applicant absent. Held to call of the chair on first nonappearance (vote 3-0, 2 excused). - US Petro (2931 W Lincoln Ave): Applicant present with attorney. Neighbors raised concerns about a separate dilapidated property owned by the applicant. Chair Zamarripa noted difficulty contacting the owner. Attorney said the applicant had health issues but had begun cleaning. Held to call of the chair for clarification of ownership and LLC structure (vote 5-0). - La Chinampa (3500 W National Ave): New application for beer and wine. Chair Zamarripa expressed support. Applicant agreed to service bar only. Approved as amended (vote 5-0). - Quick Pick Food Mart (3332 W Lincoln Ave): Renewal with police report of sale to minor. Attorney said client accepted responsibility, paid fines, and purchased ID verification device. Chair Zamarripa stressed seriousness of selling to minors. Approved with warning letter (vote 5-0). Discussion arose about fine levels and pending legislation. - Taqueria La Vecindad (1401 S 38th St): Food peddler renewal with health department citations for operating without running water. Initially held, then reconsidered. Health department representative Courtney Langosch noted two violations. Applicant said he empties water tank nightly and insulated pipes. Chair Zamarripa urged compliance and avoiding overweight vehicle routes. Approved with warning letter (vote 5-0). - Clarks Food (3434 W Oklahoma Ave): Renewal with police report of theft and a confused person. Ald. Burgelis noted he had witnessed pumps operating after hours. Applicant said pumps were reprogrammed. Approved (vote 5-0). - Splendicare Bar & Grill / Play by Play (3910 W Fond du Lac Ave): Applicant not present. Ald. Jackson noted pending fines had been satisfied. A neighbor (Lydia Melton) appeared in opposition. Held to call of the chair (vote 5-0). - Options Restaurant & Lounge (4747 N Hopkins St): Renewal with police report including weapons confiscation. Applicant explained improvements (locked safe, ID verification). Officer Walker opposed extended hours. No extended hours request was pending. Approved with warning letter (vote 5-0). - Oakland Cafe (2979 N Oakland Ave): Renewal with police report of sale of tobacco to minor at another location. Neighbor Marleny Richiez testified in support after a community meeting. Ald. Brower moved to amend plan of operation to include daily cleanup and posting contact information. Approved as amended (vote 5-0). - Miramar Theatre (2844-46 N Oakland Ave): Renewal with police reports of fights. Ald. Brower summarized an abatement plan including increased security, PatronScan, weekly communication with his office until a September 2026 community meeting, and noise abatement. The abatement plan was added to the plan of operation. Approved as amended (vote 5-0). - Star Bar (2011 E Ivanhoe Pl 1): New license for a small bar within a plaza. Applicant has 10 years with Newland. No neighbor attendance at community meeting. Approved (vote 5-0). - Blufox Automotive (3841 W Villard Ave): Renewal with change of hours and request for 3 additional spaces. Ald. Pratt opposed extra spaces due to lot size. Applicant withdrew the request. Approved as amended (vote 5-0). - Villard Mart (3709 W Villard Ave): New application for extended hours (24/7). Applicant has 20 years experience. Ald. Pratt said neighbors oppose extended hours. Applicant unwilling to amend hours. Held to call of the chair to meet with BID and neighbors (vote 5-0). - Villard Petro Mart (3709 W Villard Ave): Renewal with police report showing numerous calls. Ald. Pratt noted three murders at the parking lot since her election, loitering, and crime. Applicant agreed to CPTED and meeting with BID. Held to call of the chair with provisional license (vote 5-0). - Venom (5048 N 35th St): New license for a strip club in an industrial area. Multiple neighbors opposed, citing parking, safety, and past issues with Cheetah Club. Applicant agreed to: open at 6 p.m. daily; have 2 of 6 security guards outside unless emergencies; security on-site all hours. Ald. Pratt expressed frustration that applicant had not engaged neighbors beforehand. Approved as amended (vote 5-0). - Gold Diggers / Michael Ray Gents Plus LLC (4750 N Hopkins St): Renewal with police report including a shooting with two victims (one deceased). Applicant withdrew adult entertainment and wrestling and amended hours to 6 a.m.–midnight daily. No neighbors testified. Approved as amended with warning letter (vote 5-0). Key Outcomes - File 260462 (Overall Motion): Approved as amended by the full committee (vote 5-0). - Licenses Approved with Amendments: La Chinampa, Quick Pick Food Mart, Taqueria La Vecindad, Clarks Food, Options Restaurant & Lounge, Oakland Cafe, Miramar Theatre, Star Bar, Blufox Automotive, Venom, Gold Diggers. - Licenses Held: Ebenezer Auto & Repair, US Petro, Splendicare Bar & Grill, Villard Mart, Villard Petro Mart. - Provisional Licenses: Granted for US Petro (until Aug 31, 2026) and Villard Petro Mart (60 days, extended until September 2026 Committee meeting) to allow continued operation while issues are resolved. - Specific Directives: US Petro applicant must clarify LLC ownership and meet with neighbors; Villard Mart and Villard Petro Mart applicants must meet with Villard Ave BID and neighbors; Venom applicant must reach out to neighboring businesses; Gold Diggers removed adult entertainment and agreed to earlier closing.

The Fire and Police Commission (FPC) held a regular session on July 16, 2026, at City Hall, Room 301-B, commencing at 6:38 p.m. and adjourning at 8:42 p.m. Six commissioners were present (Horwitz, World-Patterson, Burgos, Evans, Snyder, Fung); Commissioners Spence and Ramey were excused. The meeting included elections, public comments, consent agenda, examinations, new business, and numerous personnel actions across the Department of Emergency Communications (DEC), Milwaukee Fire Department (MFD), and Milwaukee Police Department (MPD). Consent Calendar - Items 4–16 were adopted by general consent, including approval of July 2, 2026 meeting minutes, re-exemption of an Administrative Specialist Senior position in DEC, eligible list for Youth Fleet Apprentice (MFD), classification study referral for Youth Carpenter Apprentice (MFD), and multiple appointments/promotions in MPD and DEC. Public Comments & Testimony Six members of the public spoke: - Tiffany Stark (community activist, Milwaukee Alliance Against Racial Political Repression) expressed support for limiting vehicle police pursuits, citing the two-year anniversary of Samuel Sharp’s death and a rally where a pursuit occurred. She urged the commission to act without waiting for more data, stating, “data is important, but we can save lives.” - Shannon Fry reported a troubling interaction with a Waukesha police officer in Milwaukee District 3 and criticized the complaint process, asking for clearer procedures and accountability from FPC. - Amanda Merkwae (Policy and Advocacy Director, ACLU of Wisconsin) opposed the use of Flock automated license plate readers (ALPRs) and the Fusus surveillance system, citing recent misuse by MPD officers, the LAPD ending its Flock contract, and lack of transparency. She demanded audits and SOPs. - Marty Wall questioned MPD’s audit of Flock cameras and firearms, raised concerns about officer injury claims, and referenced a contract clause allowing officers to “call in injured.” - Julie Hueller Curcio (Milwaukee County resident) drew a historical analogy between Chief Norman’s training trip to Israel and a fictional 1930s chief training with the SS, urging the commission to address the trip and hold an agenda item on it. - Kaye LaFond echoed concerns about surveillance, noted three officers with Brady list access to Flock, and criticized the light sentence for former officer Ayala. Discussion Items Election of Chair and Vice Chair (Items 1–2): Miriam Horwitz was re-elected Chair and Krissie Fung elected Vice Chair for one-year terms, both by 6–0 votes. Examinations (Items 17–19): The board approved the Fire Cadet Job Announcement Bulletin, Police Aide Job Announcement Bulletin, and the Police Officer eligible list (101 candidates, including 8 contingent passes). Executive Director Todd noted the list mirrors city demographics and is a significant improvement. New Business (Items 20–26): - DEC Operational Policy Changes (Item 20): Deputy Director Dumarant presented new fire-related policies developed with MFD to ensure consistent response plans. Placed on file. - MPD Vehicle Pursuit Data (Item 21): Assistant Chief Craig Sarna presented a detailed six-month update (Jan–June 2026). Key statistics: 397 pursuits year-to-date (on pace for 794, an 18% decrease from 2025); 78% of pursuits were for reckless driving; 134 pursuit-related crashes (one-third of pursuits); 8 officers injured; no fatalities to suspects or third parties in 2026. Sarna reported 51% of reckless driving pursuits would not have occurred under proposed FPC rule changes. He also outlined planned transparency dashboards, Star Chase technology (16 vehicles), and Haas digital alert systems. Commissioners discussed towing (920 since 2022) and the need for data on drones and pursuit alternatives. - MPD SOP/SOI Changes (Item 22): Inspector Sharonda Grant presented updates to five procedures, including adding duty-to-intervene language for all law enforcement, updating the safe haven law (30 days instead of 72 hours), removing outdated photo kite camera, and adjusting honor guard requirements. Placed on file. - Classification Reports (Items 23–25): Approved creation of Youth Carpenter Apprentice (MFD), classification study for new/changed positions in MPD and DEC, and job evaluation for Crime Analyst series (changing FLSA status and raising recruitment rates). - FPC Staffing Report (Item 26): Executive Director Todd stood on his written report; placed on file. Department of Emergency Communications (Items 27–35): - Promotions approved: Emergency Communications Manager (Andrew Cochrane), 5 ECO IVs, 10 ECO IIs, and reappointment of Business Intelligence Analyst. - Two demotions on probation of Emergency Communications Managers were overturned (both 6–0 votes) after closed session. - Appointment to Emergency Communications Records Analyst Senior approved; two other appointments placed on file as moot. Fire Department (Items 36–39): Approved appointments of 49 firefighters (plus one reinstated), 6 contingent firefighters, 28 fire cadets, and 16 contingent fire cadets. Police Department (Items 40–41): Approved promotion to Crime Analyst III (Lucas Scaland) and extension of probation for a police officer (member not present to be heard). Key Outcomes - Elections: Miriam Horwitz re-elected Chair; Krissie Fung elected Vice Chair (both unanimous). - Demotions Overturned: Two Emergency Communications Manager demotions were overturned by unanimous votes (6–0) after closed session, meaning the employees retained their positions. - Personnel Actions: Dozens of appointments, promotions, and contingent hires approved across DEC, MFD, and MPD, including 49 firefighters, 28 fire cadets, and a Police Officer eligible list of 101 candidates. - Policy and Data Reports: All communications from DEC and MPD regarding operational policies, vehicle pursuit data, and SOP changes were placed on file. MPD committed to publishing pursuit dashboards online. - Future Items: The commission noted an August hiatus; next regular meeting expected in September.

July 14, 2026 | 9:29 AM – 10:42 AM | Common Council Chamber This meeting of the Milwaukee Common Council was called to order at 9:29 AM with 14 members present and one excused (Ald. Stamper). The agenda included presentations, committee reports, license matters, public works projects, finance and personnel actions, judiciary items, public safety ordinances, zoning changes, tax incremental district approvals, and two matters for immediate adoption. Key debates centered on a license suspension for a convenience store and a state highway agreement for West National Avenue. Consent Calendar - Commendatory/Condolatory Resolutions (File 260378): Fourteen resolutions recognizing individuals and organizations were placed on file on a 14-0 vote. (Minutes p. 1-2) - Licenses Committee Report – Routine Approvals: The Council approved, as amended, the Licenses Committee recommendations, which included approval with warning letters for McDonald’s (7451 W. Appleton Ave), Clark gas station (9040 W. Silver Spring Dr), renewal of Greige (408 W. Florida St 104) with changed hours, and transfer of Macrina’s Sport Bar (1663 S. 11th St) with hookah services. (Minutes p. 2-3; Transcript) - Public Works Items 4-12, 14-17: Adopted unanimously (14-0) with one abstention on item 5 (Ald. Burgelis) and one abstention on item 18 (Ald. Bauman) and item 20 (Ald. Brower). These included honorary street naming, assessable/nonassessable improvements, state highway agreements for North 76th St, South 1st St, I-43, South 27th St, West National Ave (originally item 13, see below), the 2025 Compliance Maintenance Report, the 43rd Street Ditch MMSD agreement, the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon operating agreement, and a driveway approval. (Minutes p. 5-11) - Finance & Personnel Items 21-35: All passed / adopted / placed on file by 14-0 votes. Included amendments to 2026 offices and pay rates, travel authorizations, RFPs for stop-loss insurance and workers’ comp administration, grant acceptance (Well Woman Program, StriveTogether), fund transfers, and communications on compensation/classification. (Minutes p. 12-16) - Judiciary & Legislation Items 36-46: Passed/adopted/placed on file/disallowed by 14-0 votes. Included a code correction ordinance, claim settlements (Julie Kaufmann, Antoine Young, Metropolitan Associates, Layton Grove Apartments), and disallowance of four claims. (Minutes p. 17-20) - Public Safety & Health Items 47-56: All passed/adopted/confirmed by 14-0 votes. Included parking and traffic control ordinances, a substitute on exception street parking (Ald. Zamarripa’s Substitute A), dangerous/exotic animals ordinance, lead hazard abatement agreements, a genital ulcer disease grant, and appointments to the Safety and Civic Commission, Fire and Police Commission. (Minutes p. 21-24) - Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Items 58-66: Passed/adopted by 14-0 votes, with one abstention on item 65 (Ald. Zamarripa). Included zoning changes for The Everett Multifamily and 1215 W. Layton Ave, creation of TID 134 (Austin Commons), amendments to TIDs 72 (Bishops Creek), 74 (North 35th & Capitol), 62 (DRS Power), fund transfer for planning, and sale of city-owned tax deed properties. (Minutes p. 25-27) - Community & Economic Development Items 67-70: Adopted/confirmed by 14-0 votes. Included $10,000 for the 2nd District Back to School Festival and appointments to BIDs 26 and 37. (Minutes p. 29-30) - Communications on File: Multiple appointments and reports ordered on file without objection. (Transcript) - Matters for Immediate Adoption (Items 71-72): Adopted 14-0. Included final certified survey maps and approval of the HaRUNbee 5K Walk/Run for Bronzeville Week 2026. (Minutes p. 30) Public Comments & Testimony - License Hearing – Magic Foods (Balkar Singh): Atty. David Halbrooks, representing the applicant, argued that no ordinance or criminal violations were alleged; incidents were mostly loitering where the operator called police. He noted the operator held six community meetings, installed cameras and no-loitering signs, and agreed to additional concessions requested by the alder (security guard 3-9 PM, point-of-sale scanner, no alcohol sales 8-9 AM and 2-3:30 PM). He stated the business was “not the problem” regarding neighborhood liquor store saturation. (Transcript) - Atty. Travis Gresham from the City Attorney’s Office presented findings of fact and conclusions of law but did not make substantive arguments. (Transcript) - No additional public testimony was taken during the meeting. Discussion Items - Magic Foods License Suspension: The Licenses Committee had recommended a 20-day suspension for the Class A liquor license of Balkar Singh (Magic Foods, 2876 N 16th St) based on police reports and community testimony about loitering and non‑compliance. Ald. Jackson moved to increase the suspension from 20 to 30 days. After debate (Ald. Zamarripa noted the 20-day was a compromise negotiated with Ald. Stamper, and Ald. Burgelis cited lack of prior discipline), the motion failed 5-7-2 (aye: Chambers, Bauman, Westmoreland, Jackson, Perez; no: Pratt, Brower, Zamarripa, Moore, Burgelis, Spiker, Dimitrijevic; abstain: Coggs, Taylor). The Council then approved the committee recommendation as amended (including the four additional licenses) on a 14-0 vote. (Minutes p. 2-4; Transcript) - West National Avenue Agreement (Item 13, File 260314): The Public Works Committee recommended adoption of a 7th Revision State/Municipal Agreement for West National Avenue (39th St to 1st St) with a net cost decrease of $203,700. Ald. Chambers moved to return the file to committee, citing lack of outreach from DPW regarding stakeholder concerns on the eastern portion of the design. Ald. Zamarripa (8th District) objected, fearing construction delays. Ald. Coggs noted the Wisconsin DOT requires paperwork by August 1st and urged expedited action if returned. The Council voted 10-3-1-1 to refer back to committee (aye: Pratt, Chambers, Bauman, Westmoreland, Jackson, Taylor, Burgelis, Perez, Spiker, Dimitrijevic; no: Brower, Zamarripa, Moore; abstain: Coggs; excused: Stamper). (Minutes p. 8; Transcript) - Presentation – Homer Blow: Ald. Moore led a recognition of Homer Blow for his 35th anniversary as a radio personality and his 32nd annual birthday party for kids. Blow addressed the Council, expressing gratitude and commitment to Milwaukee. The Council unanimously placed the commendatory resolution on file. (Minutes p. 1; Transcript) Key Outcomes - Magic Foods License: Approved renewal with a 20‑day suspension (14-0) after a failed attempt to increase to 30 days. The operator must implement security guard hours, point-of-sale scanner, and restricted alcohol sales. (Minutes p. 3-4) - West National Avenue (Item 13): Referred back to the Public Works Committee (10-3-1-1) due to unresolved stakeholder concerns. The matter is expected to return before the August break. (Minutes p. 8, Transcript) - Tax Incremental Districts: Created TID 134 (Austin Commons) and amended plans for TIDs 72, 74, and 62, all approved 14-0. (Minutes p. 25-27) - Appointments Confirmed: Rebecca Gries to Harbor Commissioners, Ald. Brower to Public Transportation/Utilities/Waterways Review Board, John Fletcher to Safety and Civic Commission, Dana World-Patterson and LaNelle Ramey to Fire and Police Commission, and three BID board members. (Minutes p. 10-11, 23-24, 29) - Funds Reserved: Up to $1,500,000 from the Common Council Contingent Fund was appropriated to the Damages and Claims Fund for lawsuit settlements. (Minutes p. 14) - Lead Hazard Abatement: Authorized the Commissioner of Health to execute agreements for lead hazard abatement in residential properties. (Minutes p. 22) - State Highway Agreements: Executed for North 76th St, South 1st St, I-43, and South 27th St; the West National Ave agreement was sent back to committee. (Minutes p. 5-8) The meeting adjourned at 10:42 AM.

The Finance & Personnel Committee of the City of Milwaukee met on July 8, 2026, at 9:18 AM in City Hall. The committee, chaired by Ald. Marina Dimitrijevic, considered 19 agenda items including a preview of the 2027 mayoral budget, multiple RFPs for city insurance and benefits, an audit of the Milwaukee Police Department's IT controls, and a variety of routine personnel and financial approvals. All five members were present for most votes, with all routine items passing unanimously (5-0). The meeting adjourned at 11:51 AM. Discussion Items 2027 Budget Preview (Item 1) - Budget Director Nik Kovac presented an early look at the 2027 proposed budget. The city faces a $97 million budget gap for 2027, down slightly from $101 million the prior year. - The total 2026 adopted budget is $2,075,687,722. Of that, $1.6 billion is the general fund (levy-supported), and only $685 million is considered controllable day-to-day operating costs for most departments. - Key constraints: Act 12 requires annual increases in sworn police and fire personnel, and many user fees are limited to cost recovery. The Tax Stabilization Fund (TSF) balance was $10 million at the end of 2024; $32 million was drawn for the 2026 budget, and reserves remain limited. - Revenue sources: property tax (largest), state shared revenue (growing due to Act 12), sales tax (13%, projected over $200 million in 2026), and user charges. - Ald. Moore raised concerns about road conditions and flood-related costs; Ald. Coggs emphasized the need for climate-resilient investments (green infrastructure, forestry). - The communication was held to the call of the chair (5-0). MPD Information Technology General Controls Audit (Item 2) - City Comptroller’s Office and CLA presented findings. Low-level issues included password lockout controls, vendor oversight, and documentation gaps. High-level findings were discussed in closed session (motion 4-0-1, with Ald. Dimitrijevic excused). After closed session, the committee recommended placing the communication on file (4-0-1, Ald. Spiker excused). Deferred Compensation Auto-Escalation Program (Item 6) - Beth Cleary, Executive Director of Deferred Compensation, reported that the board implemented an auto-escalation (auto-increase) program for non-sworn employees. Employees saving 3-6% will be automatically increased by 1% annually up to 7%, with the option to opt out at any time. - Ald. Burgelis expressed concern about the mandatory default, but noted the opt-out provisions. Ald. Moore and others supported the program as a tool to boost retirement savings. - The communication was placed on file (5-0). Settlement Appropriation (Item 7, taken out of order) - City Attorney Evan Goyke requested $1.5 million from the Common Council Contingent Fund to the Damages and Claims Fund for lawsuit settlements. After the transfer, the contingents fund balance would be $1.6 million, which is “very tight” according to the budget office, due to a large settlement in early 2026. - The resolution was recommended for adoption (5-0). Stop Loss Insurance RFP (Item 4) - Molly King, DER, presented a request to issue an RFP for stop loss insurance for the city’s self-insured health plan. Total health claims in 2025 could have reached $163 million; six claims exceeded $500,000. The RFP would explore options to cap the city’s risk. - The resolution was recommended for adoption (5-0). Workers’ Compensation Benefits Plan RFP (Item 5) - A similar RFP for third-party administration of workers’ compensation. Current contract expires 2027. Adopted (5-0). Reimbursable Expenditure Authority Increase (Item 9) - Increased authority for DPW, DOA, DCD, and Health Department to charge the Reimbursable Services Advance Fund. Adopted (5-0). Vacancy Requests, Fund Transfers, and Equipment Requests (Item 10) - Approved routine staffing requests, including new police officers and firefighters. Adopted (5-0). Single/Sole Source Contract Waivers (Item 11) - Four contracts approved: Big Clean initiative ($200K), citywide telecom services ($2M+), Health Department lab maintenance ($58K), and sensory inclusion certification ($75K). Placed on file (5-0). Classification Studies (Items 12 & 13) - Andrea Knickerbocker, DER, presented final citywide classification studies covering 150 positions in business operations and HR, costing $5,901 per position. The studies complete a five-year project. All items placed on file (5-0). Bridge Operator Pay Incentive (Item 14) - Added a 5% incentive for bridge operators on maintenance crew to reduce reliance on contractors. Placed on file (5-0). Clerical/Administrative Corrections (Item 15) - Minor adjustments to salary and positions ordinances. Placed on file (5-0). Wisconsin Well Woman Program Grant (Item 16) - Accepted 2026-2027 grant from Wisconsin DHS. Referred from Public Safety and Health Committee. Adopted (5-0). Travel Authorization (Item 17) - Approved attendance at conventions and seminars. Adopted (5-0). Salary and Positions Ordinance Amendments (Items 18 & 19) - Approved changes reflecting earlier committee actions. Passed (5-0). Key Outcomes - All 19 agenda items were disposed of, with no opposition votes recorded on routine matters. - The 2027 budget preview was held for further discussion; budget hearings will continue through summer. - The committee formally recommended placing the MPD IT audit file to the full council. - Seven items were recommended for adoption/passage by the Common Council. - The meeting included a brief closed session on the MPD audit (crime detection strategy), reconvening in open session. - Next steps: The Mayoral proposed 2027 budget will be released in September, with public meetings on July 29 and 30, 2026.

The Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee (HACM) Board of Commissioners convened on Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 4:13 PM in City Hall Room 301-B, Milwaukee, WI. All seven commissioners were present. The meeting included a public listening session, approval of a resolution to rescind ten Section 32 scattered site units, reports from staff, and a resolution honoring Ken Barbeau for 27 years of service. The meeting adjourned at 5:51 PM. Consent Calendar - R13783: Approval of the minutes of the regular Board meeting held on June 10, 2026. Approved unanimously. - R13784: Documents shared with the Travaux Board of Directors in June 2026, including meeting minutes, project updates, occupancy and work order reports. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony Six members of the public provided testimony during the Public Listening Session. Speakers and their primary concerns were: - Karen Davis (HCV Section 8 participant): Described her Section 8 unit as uninhabitable and stated she fell due to unsafe conditions; she believes the conditions are unsafe for her. - Carrie Maas (Section 8 landlord for 20 years): Reported multiple issues over the past 1.5 years including late payments, missing paperwork, and recertifications completed six months late; she requested a detailed meeting with a commissioner. - Diana Hinton (Convent Hill resident): Said she is waiting for Public Safety to respond to a complaint about a serious lease violation and wants timely action. - Betty Newton (Convent Hill, RO Secretary): Expressed frustration about a storage space reversal and a change of locks without notice after previous permission was given. - Battites Wesley (applicant on waitlist): Stated that the lottery system is unfair and that a first-come, first-served numbered system would be fairer. - Cornelius Sawyer (RAB, Highland RO President): Reported that the online rent payment portal has not functioned for two months and that issues raised are not being communicated to upper management. Discussion Items 1. Resolution R13787 – Rescission of Section 32 Homeownership Units - Jeanne Dawson, HACM Program Specialist, presented the resolution authorizing a request to HUD’s Special Application Center to rescind ten remaining scattered site units from the approved Section 32 Homeownership Program. HACM had approval for 40 units; 30 have been sold to first-time homebuyers. The ten remaining units are occupied and HUD requested they be returned to active PIC status. Commissioners discussed the process and confirmed that a new application would be needed for any future Section 32 sales. The board voted unanimously to adopt the resolution. 2. Report from the Secretary-Executive Director (R13789) - Harold Ince, Secretary-Executive Director, introduced Zena Farah as the new Chief Operations Officer – Real Estate, who thanked the board and expressed enthusiasm about the agency’s opportunities. - Public Housing Occupancy: 96.25% (excluding 200 units on hold). Work order backlog: 657 opened in June, 372 closed, leaving 285 open; average of 29 created and 16 closed per day. - Market Rate & Tax Credit Portfolio: 93.14% occupancy; 550 work orders, 332 completed; backlog of 50 orders at least 60 days old and 18 at least 90 days old. - Pre-Meeting Q&A Option: Patricia Dee explained that a weekly pre-meeting session for commissioners is now held Monday afternoons at 2 PM on a first-come, first-served basis (up to two commissioners). - CVR Monthly Report: Tracy Sheffield reported that the Housing Choice Voucher waiting list lottery selected 5,000 applicants from 8,801 pre-applications (2021–2024), completing a HUD Corrective Action Plan item. HACM has been released from HUD shortfall status, allowing renewed leasing activities. The agency is currently performing at a SEMAP High Performer level. - Public Safety Report: Chief Marlon Davis and Captain Nicole McDade updated on the Merrill Park community safety deployment, where officer-initiated deployments increased after resident concerns. From April 14 to May 19, calls for service decreased from 90 to 16. Furniture removal in the lobby was implemented to reduce loitering and will be reevaluated when calls decline further. No major incidents occurred over the Fourth of July weekend. The captain described partnerships with Milwaukee Police and site checkpoint patrols. Commissioner Nelson noted the positive impact of increased visibility at his development. - Sustainability Plan: Ken Barbeau reported that of 24 findings in HUD’s plan, 14 are closed and 10 are past due. Key open items include a cost allocation plan, asset management reports, inventory control system, and required annual inspections. A new CFO is addressing financial findings. - Executive Search Committee Dissolved: Patricia Dee noted the committee, created in September 2025 to hire a permanent Secretary-Executive Director, concluded its work with the hiring of Harold Ince. No formal board action was needed; the board extended thanks to members. 3. Resolution R13788 – Commendation for Ken Barbeau - The board adopted a resolution commending Ken Barbeau for 27 years of dedicated service. Chair Hayslett presented a plaque. Barbeau thanked the board and staff, noting he was honored to serve the mission of keeping 11,000 families in stable housing. The resolution passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Resolution R13787: Unanimously adopted to authorize HACM to request HUD rescind ten scattered site units from the Section 32 program, returning them to active status. - Resolution R13788: Unanimously adopted commending Ken Barbeau for 27 years of service. - Executive Search Committee: Formally dissolved; no further action needed. - Next Steps: Staff will continue addressing sustainability plan findings, work order backlogs, landlord payment issues, and public safety deployments. Commissioners will be invited to pre-meeting Q&A sessions.

The Board of City Service Commissioners held a virtual meeting on July 7, 2026, at 1:30 PM, concluding at 1:44 PM. All five commissioners (Frank Bock, Marilyn Miller, Janet Cleary, Steve Smith, Heidi Wick Spoerl) were present. The meeting included the annual election of officers, approval of minutes and reports, temporary appointment extensions, and an exemption request for library intern positions. All votes were unanimous (5-0). No public testimony was heard. Consent Calendar - Approval of June 16, 2026, Meeting Minutes (File 260306): Approved unanimously (5-0). - Classification Reports (File 260307): Approved as submitted (5-0). The reports included repurposing a Civil Engineer Senior position to Civil Engineer 4, creating a Senior Transportation Analyst/Planner, title changes for Emergency Response Planning Director and Self-Help Yard Supervisor, and reallocations of Business Finance Manager, Budget Manager (City Development), Workers' Compensation and Safety Manager, and Human Resources Analyst following a market study. - Probationary Reports (File 260308): Placed on file. No new probationary periods were recommended for five positions in four departments as changes were not based on new duties. Discussion Items - Annual Election of President and Vice President (File 260305): Commissioner Smith nominated Frank Bock for President; Commissioner Cleary nominated Marilyn Miller for Vice President. Both accepted and were elected by acclamation for the 2026–2027 term. - Temporary Appointment Extension – Kevin Joshua (File 260385): Milwaukee Water Works requested a 90-day extension for a Water Meter Investigator due to an employee on extended leave. Approved unanimously (5-0). - Retroactive Temporary Appointment – Julien Phifer (File 260386): Department of Community Wellness and Safety (DCWS) requested a 10-month retroactive appointment for a ReCAST Program Manager due to organizational transition. Approved unanimously (5-0). - Temporary Appointment – Yasmine Morton (File 260387): DCWS requested a 10-month appointment for an Operations Manager, citing Ms. Morton as the most qualified candidate while the department reviews organizational structure. Approved unanimously (5-0). - Exemption for Library Teen Outreach Intern Positions (File 260388): Milwaukee Public Library requested permanent exempt status for three additional Teen Outreach Intern positions (Pay Range 9MN), noting that interns work 10 hours/week and resign at graduation. Supported by a memo from HR. Approved unanimously (5-0). Key Outcomes - Unanimous votes (5-0) on all actions: minutes, classification reports, probationary report (placed on file), three temporary appointments, and the library intern exemption. - Officers elected: Frank Bock re-elected President, Marilyn Miller re-elected Vice President for the 2026–2027 term. - Adjournment: motion by Heidi Wick Spoerl, seconded by Janet Cleary, passed unanimously at 1:44 PM. Next scheduled meeting noted as July 21, 2026.

The Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee of the Milwaukee Common Council met on July 7, 2026, at 9:03 AM in Room 301-B of City Hall. Chaired by Ald. Robert J. Bauman, the committee addressed ten agenda items including an operational update from the Department of Neighborhood Services (DNS), property sales, zoning changes, tax incremental district (TID) amendments, and the creation of a new TID for the Austin Commons affordable housing development. The meeting adjourned at 12:15 PM. Consent Calendar - Item 2: Resolution authorizing sale of city-owned tax deed properties at 2034-2038 W. Greenfield Ave. to Sustainable Development LLC for development of four owner-occupied townhomes. Recommended for adoption (3-0, two excused). - Item 3: Resolution authorizing sale of city-owned tax deed property at 3068 N. Teutonia Ave. to 3706 Property Investments LLC for use as parking and daycare playground. Recommended for adoption (4-0, one excused). - Item 5: Substitute ordinance rezoning the western 50 feet of 1215 W. Layton Ave. from IL1 to IO1 to facilitate expansion of an existing gas station. Recommended for passage (3-0, two excused). - Item 6: Resolution authorizing transfer of funds from Capital Improvements-Advance Planning Fund for comprehensive planning, GIS mapping, and related activities. Recommended for adoption (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 4 (The Everett Multifamily): No public testimony was offered. - Item 10 (Austin Commons TID): Andy Meyer, owner of a neighboring property and pipe organ business, testified in opposition. He expressed concerns about parking congestion, density, snow removal, and access on Austin Street, particularly during winter. He also provided background on how the three parcels came to be owned by Clement Sausage Company. Discussion Items - Item 1: DNS Operational Status Update – Jesamil Arroyo-Vega and Mike Mazmanian from DNS presented a detailed overview of the department's inspection staff, complaint volume, and service delivery metrics. Discussion covered inspector staffing challenges (e.g., special enforcement vacancies falling from 17 positions in 2020 to 7 funded, with recruitment difficulties), safety incidents (one shooting incident in recent years), use of personal vehicles (mileage reimbursement at roughly $0.30–$0.40 per mile), condemnation/demolition processes, and coordination with licensing and BOZA. Ald. Coggs requested correspondence on safety incidents and condemnation data. Ald. Spiker requested information on Municipal Court cases. The item was held to the call of the chair on a motion by Ald. Jackson (5-0). - Item 4: The Everett Multifamily Rezoning – DCD and the development team outlined a proposed 12-story, 200-unit market-rate apartment building at 234 S. Water St., including a new riverwalk segment. The site, currently used for parking, had prior approved developments that expired. The City Plan Commission had recommended approval. Committee members discussed building height, design (brick consistent with nearby Avani), and consistency with comprehensive plans. No public testimony. Recommended for passage (4-0, one excused). - Item 7: TID No. 62 Amendment (DRS Power & Control Technologies) – A substitute was introduced. The amendment proposes $1 million in public infrastructure improvements including resurfacing North 29th St. ($120,000), high-impact paving ($570,000), and raised crosswalks and traffic calming on North Hopkins ($370,000). Discussion included the cost of raised crosswalks ($100,000–$120,000 each) and coordination with flood mitigation. Ald. Pratt expressed support. Recommended for adoption (4-0, one excused). - Item 8: TID No. 72 Amendment (Bishops Creek) – A substitute was introduced. The amendment approves $2 million in project costs for traffic calming on North Hopkins, street lighting circuit replacement ($935,000), and a new playground ($750,000) as part of the MMSD West Basin Project (30-million-gallon stormwater basin). Discussion covered the West Basin project timeline (construction 2027, playground 2028) and flood mitigation. Recommended for adoption (5-0). - Item 9: TID No. 74 Amendment (North 35th & Capitol Drive) – A substitute was introduced. The amendment approves $4.09 million for infrastructure improvements ($3.69 million), housing programs ($150,000), contingency ($150,000), and administration ($100,000) at Century City. Discussion included the Talgo building assessment (tax-exempt, city-owned, $30,000+ monthly rent), available development acreage (approximately 60 acres), and the redevelopment plan. Recommended for adoption (5-0). - Item 10: TID No. 134 Creation (Austin Commons) – A substitute resolution approving a Project Plan and Development Agreement for a new TID in the 14th Aldermanic District. The TID will support construction of 100 affordable rental units (14 supportive housing) at 2318–2332 S. Austin St. in Bay View. The development team presented financing: $33 million total project cost, TIF request of up to $2.135 million (developer-financed at 5.91% over 21 years). Ald. Dimitrijevic reported three community meetings with divided resident opinions; she did not object. Extensive discussion on parking (104 underground spaces, dynamic pricing proposed, $104/month fee), density, site control, and human resource requirements (40% RPP, 25% SBE). DPW stated existing on-street parking is sufficient (21 spaces available on the 2300 block of Austin St. at night). The development team noted that zoning allows up to 67 parking spaces, and they are providing 104. A neighboring property owner testified in opposition. Recommended for adoption (4-1, Ald. Bauman opposed). Key Outcomes - Item 1 was held to the call of the chair (5-0). - Items 2, 3, 5, and 6 were recommended for adoption/passage with unanimous or near-unanimous votes. - Items 4, 7, 8, and 9 were recommended for adoption/passage with votes as noted. - Item 10 was recommended for adoption (4-1) with Ald. Bauman voting no. - All actions will proceed to the full Common Council for final approval.

The Fire and Police Commission's Testing and Recruiting Committee met on July 7, 2026. Commissioners present were Evans, Horwitz, World Patterson, and Spencer (Vice Chair). Commissioner Ramey was excused. Deputy Director Jusick and Staffing Services Manager Molly Keithers also participated. The meeting covered a closed session on litigation, updates on recruitment and hiring efforts, and guidance on implementing volunteer service preference points for promotional exams. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes: The committee unanimously approved the minutes of the May 12, 2026 meeting (FPC 212617) via voice vote. Discussion Items - Litigation and residency preference points (FPC 212618): The committee convened in closed session under Wisconsin Statute §19.85(1)(g) to confer with Assistant City Attorney Alex Fondus on litigation involving the Fire and Police Commission. After returning to open session, the committee agreed to direct staff to gather more research on residency preference points for promotions. Commissioners expressed a need to determine the purpose and material effect of such points before proceeding. - Volunteer service preference points for promotional exams (FPC 212620): Staffing Services Manager Molly Keithers reported that an FAQ document and an online form are being developed to process claims. She clarified that volunteer organizations need not be located within Milwaukee city limits, but must benefit the Milwaukee community. The main discussion centered on whether department-sponsored volunteer events (e.g., Police Athletic League, Junior Fire Institute) should qualify. Commissioners expressed general support for allowing such events as long as the volunteering is off-duty, voluntary, and meets the nonprofit requirement. No formal vote was taken, but staff received direction to include department-sponsored events consistent with these conditions. - Police recruitment and hiring progress (FPC 212619): Staff presented a detailed update on 2026 hiring metrics. Applications are up to 1,230 for the year (average 47/week vs. 39 in 2025), attributed largely to the Safeguard recruiting contract. The newest academy class (Class 2 of 2026) has 31 entry-level recruits plus 6 laterals. Key initiatives include: a new NTN Express written test (launched June 1) to reduce applicant drop-off, a bifurcated physical readiness test (PRT) scoring system, a new psychological testing vendor (National Testing Network) with adverse impact validation, and a new appeal vendor (Thin Line). Badge Bound events have been introduced to strengthen candidate commitment. The employee engagement survey (citywide) closed with a 20-30% response rate from Milwaukee Police Department. Commissioners praised the creativity and hard work of FPC staff, noting the difficulty of meeting state-mandated hiring quotas. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously (FPC 212617). - Closed session motion to confer with city attorney on litigation passed unanimously. - Direction to staff: For residency preference points, staff will gather more research before board action. For volunteer service preference points, staff will proceed with including department-sponsored off-duty volunteer events that benefit the Milwaukee community. - Farewell to Commissioner Bree Spencer: The committee thanked Commissioner Spencer for her service as Vice Chair; she is leaving the commission. Her contributions were recognized, and she indicated she would attend the next meeting on Friday.

The Judiciary & Legislation Committee of the Milwaukee Common Council met on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 9:10 AM in Room 301-B of City Hall. Chair Alderman DiAndre Jackson presided, with Aldermen Lamont Westmoreland, Robert J. Bauman, Andrea M. Pratt, and Jose G. Perez present. The meeting adjourned at 11:35 AM. The committee considered 14 agenda items, including claims for damages, appeals, a code revision ordinance, and litigation settlements. All votes were unanimous (5-0) unless noted. Consent Calendar - Item 1 (251633) – Claim of Cooper Horn: Recommended for placing on file as no longer necessary. (Motion by Ald. Bauman, prevailed 5-0) - Item 11 (260109) – Substitute ordinance revising code provisions: Recommended for passage to correct errors, clarify language, eliminate obsolete provisions, and update references. (Motion by Ald. Westmoreland, prevailed 5-0) - Item 12 (260316) – First amendment to outside counsel agreement in Antoine D. Young v. City of Milwaukee: Recommended for adoption based on reasons stated in closed session. (Motion by Ald. Bauman, prevailed 5-0) - Item 13 (260338) – Settlement of claims in Metropolitan Associates, et al. v. City of Milwaukee: Recommended for adoption based on reasons stated in closed session. (Motion by Ald. Bauman, prevailed 5-0) - Item 14 (260339) – Settlement of claims in Layton Grove Apartments LLC v. City of Milwaukee: Recommended for adoption based on reasons stated in closed session. (Motion by Ald. Westmoreland, prevailed 5-0) Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3 (251628) – Claim of Sovaja Knox: Mr. Knox appeared in person, requesting $1 million for alleged wrongful arrest and police misconduct on September 14, 2025. He stated his case is pending in circuit court with a final pretrial on August 27, 2026. Committee recommended denial (motion by Ald. Bauman). Mr. Knox asked about appeal process; staff explained that denial by full Common Council (meeting July 14) would allow him to sue in circuit court. - Item 5 (251624) – Claim of Attorney Phillip Georges on behalf of Lashawn Johnson: Attorney Jonathan Major appeared for claimant, disputing the city’s position but agreeing to seek resolution in court. Claim seeks $250,000 for personal injuries sustained on August 19, 2025, during a police pursuit. Committee recommended denial (motion by Ald. Bauman). - Item 10 (260203) – Appeal of Juli Kaufmann for property damage: Ms. Kaufmann testified that a city snow plow damaged her landscaping at 360 N. Gordon’s Circle on March 16, 2026. She requested $1,300. Despite city attorney and fleet department testimony that GPS records showed no city vehicle in the area, the committee found her testimony credible and granted the claim (substitute resolution adopted, motion by Ald. Bauman). Discussion Items - Item 2 (251915) – Appeal of Mayolo Arias for property damage: Held to the call of the chair (second time) due to claimant’s emergency out-of-country travel. (Motion by Ald. Westmoreland) - Item 4 (251630) – Claim of Lawrence Howard: Recommended for disallowance and indefinite postponement after discussion noting a pending felony case and that civil rights claims do not require notice of claim. (Motion by Ald. Bauman) - Item 6 (251835) – Appeal of Ivan Kruslin for bodily injuries: Recommended for disallowance and indefinite postponement based on jurisdictional objection (notice not filed within 120 days; claimant was six months late). (Motion by Ald. Bauman) - Item 7 (251932) – Claim by Keyauna Brumfield: Held to the call of the chair for non-appearance (first time). (Motion by Ald. Westmoreland) - Item 8 (251852) – Claim of Logan Heinrich and Thomas Ravert: Initially scheduled, then held to call of the chair when claimants requested a later meeting; later reconsidered and again held. (Motion by Ald. Westmoreland) - Item 9 (251851) – Claim by Charlie Mikel: Held to the call of the chair for non-appearance (first time). (Motion by Ald. Perez) - Item 11 (260109) – Code revision ordinance: Presented by Christopher Hillard of the Legislative Reference Bureau. Changes included gender-neutral language (e.g., “his or her” for commissioner), correcting a code reference for license classification, and clarifying loitering by sex offenders. No substantive policy changes. Committee recommended passage. Key Outcomes - Claim Denials (Items 3, 4, 5, 6): The committee recommended denial/disallowance for claims by Sovaja Knox, Lawrence Howard, Lashawn Johnson, and Ivan Kruslin. These will be forwarded to the full Common Council on July 14, 2026, for final action. - Claim Granted (Item 10): Juli Kaufmann’s appeal for $1,300 in property damage was approved despite contrary city evidence. The city attorney’s office will arrange payment. - Items Held (Items 2, 7, 8, 9): Four appeals/claims were held to the call of the chair for various reasons (claimant unavailability, non-appearance, or scheduling). - Closed Session: The committee convened into closed session at approximately 10:15 AM under Wis. Stat. § 19.85(1)(g) to confer with the City Attorney regarding litigation. They returned to open session to act on items 12-14. - All votes were unanimous (5-0) with all five members present. Note: Times for agenda items are estimations; the meeting webcast is available at www.milwaukee.gov/channel25.