Nik Kovac is the City of Milwaukee budget director. He was an alderman on the Milwaukee Common Council until 2022. First elected in 2008, Kovac represented the city’s East Side, Riverwest, and a portion of downtown.

Official Council Biography

Nik Kovac was born and raised on Milwaukee’s East Side. He proudly attended Milwaukee Public Schools—from McDowell Montessori School to Golda Meir Elementary School, and Jackie Robinson Middle School through Riverside High School. While at Riverside, he earned more than 20 college credits from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee.

Attending Harvard University and graduating cum laude with a degree in mathematics, Alderman Kovac worked to become a beat reporter and then a newspaper editor in New York City. He returned to Milwaukee to work for the Shepherd Express and Riverwest Currents. He continues to write pieces for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Since April 2008, he has been the Alderman for Milwaukee’s 3rd District, which includes the Brady Street neighborhood and the East Side, home to the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee Campus and Riverwest neighborhoods. The district also includes many of the city’s artists and art institutions.

At City Hall he serves as the Chair of the Capital Improvements Committee, Vice-Chair of the Finance & Personnel Committee and as an influential member of the Licenses Committee. Alderman Kovac’s work extends outside City Hall and throughout his district as Chair of the East Side Architectural Review Board and as a member of the Milwaukee Arts Board, the Milwaukee Public Library Board of Trustees, the Milwaukee County Federated Library Board, the Park East Advisory Committee and the Riverside University High School Foundation Board of Directors. As a proud stockholder for the Green Bay Packers football club and a resident of Riverwest, Alderman Kovac hosts a weekly radio show, Packerverse, on Riverwest’s Community Radio Station.

These rich experiences in the district have taught him the positive influence that active, engaged artists and citizens can have on the local economy, a sense of community, neighborhood beautification, and the city’s social memory.

Source

Campaign Finance Reports

2020 - July Continuing - $1,375 - 10 contributions

2021 - January Continuing - $990 - 2 contributions

2020 - January Continuing - $7,670 - 50 contributions

2019 - July Continuing - $9,796 - 52 contributions

2019 - January Continuing - $417 - 1 contributions

2018 - July Continuing - No Contributions

2017 - July Continuing - $350 - 3 contributions

2016 - July Continuing - $950 - 5 contributions

2016 - Pre-Election - $10,593 - 75 contributions

2016 - Pre-Primary - $50 - 1 contributions

2016 - January Continuing - $1,094 - 4 contributions

2015 - July Continuing - $12,593 - 99 contributions

Photos

Content referencing Nik Kovac

City Hall: Elected Officials Pay Hike Wins First Endorsement, Opposition
City Hall

Elected Officials Pay Hike Wins First Endorsement, Opposition

Multi-million dollar proposal also includes raises for dozens of department, division leaders.

Will There Be a City Attorney Race?

Will There Be a City Attorney Race?

Candidates must collect 1,500-3,000 signatures. Where is the incumbent?

New Couple Attempting To Build House On Tricky Historic Site

New Couple Attempting To Build House On Tricky Historic Site

But commission indicates it will eventually approve design.

2024 Milwaukee Budget Increases Services, Taxes

2024 Milwaukee Budget Increases Services, Taxes

New sales tax allows city to avoid drastic cuts, but comes at a cost.

Tentative Deal Would Salvage Milwaukee’s Deconstruction Program

Tentative Deal Would Salvage Milwaukee’s Deconstruction Program

Northcott Neighborhood House could step in to do work for long-delayed program.

City Hall: Budget Amendment Would Boost Libraries, Streets, Voting and Lead Abatement
City Hall

Budget Amendment Would Boost Libraries, Streets, Voting and Lead Abatement

Proposal from Alderwoman Dimitirjevic and Council President Pérez aims to boost services across city.

City Hall: Council Wants New Deal, Says Convention Center ‘Outsmarted’ City
City Hall

Council Wants New Deal, Says Convention Center ‘Outsmarted’ City

No revenue sharing payments to city expected for next two years under 2020 deal.

Fire Department Debating Which Station To Reopen

Fire Department Debating Which Station To Reopen

For first time in years, MFD thinks about growth. Down to three options.

District 3 residents invited to town hall meetings regarding 2024 city budget
City Hall: Milwaukee Could Get $5 Million Citizen-Led Transformation Fund
City Hall

Milwaukee Could Get $5 Million Citizen-Led Transformation Fund

But council members have plenty of questions about Mayor Cavalier Johnson's proposal.

Mayor Unveils 2024 Budget With New Sales Tax

Mayor Unveils 2024 Budget With New Sales Tax

But a massive deficit still looms for Milwaukee.

City Sees 1.14% New Construction Growth

City Sees 1.14% New Construction Growth

Such growth is critical for cities like Milwaukee if they hope to increase the tax levy.

Food Trucks Banned On Portion of W. Silver Spring Drive

Food Trucks Banned On Portion of W. Silver Spring Drive

Alderman says grills, pop-up shoe sales have occurred on busy street.

City Hall: Mayor Johnson Signs 2% Sales Tax Into Law
City Hall

Mayor Johnson Signs 2% Sales Tax Into Law

"Something huge, something major, something extraordinary," says Johnson of revenue deal, averting fiscal cliff.

Common Council Approves 2% Milwaukee Sales Tax

Common Council Approves 2% Milwaukee Sales Tax

But members blast policy provisions state is imposing. Mayor says vote was equal to one to create city in 1846.

Town Hall Meeting To Discuss Sales Tax Proposal Set For Monday
Friday Photos: EIGHTEEN87 Adding Riverfront Affordable Housing
Friday Photos

EIGHTEEN87 Adding Riverfront Affordable Housing

Permit filing indicates new building will soon rise immediately to its west.

Joint town hall meeting to discuss sales tax proposal set for July 6
Council Committee Endorses 2% Sales Tax

Council Committee Endorses 2% Sales Tax

And blasts state policy restrictions while insisting tax is far from a 'Milwaukee bailout.'

Milwaukee Has Very Ambitious Climate and Jobs Plan

Milwaukee Has Very Ambitious Climate and Jobs Plan

Alderwoman Dimitrijevic and ECO director Erick Shambarger seek to transform the city.

City Hall: The Ins and Outs of Milwaukee’s Financial Future
City Hall

The Ins and Outs of Milwaukee’s Financial Future

Republican legislators can't agree on how many strings to attach to funding proposal.

Assembly Republicans Have Plan To Help Milwaukee, Will It Work?

Assembly Republicans Have Plan To Help Milwaukee, Will It Work?

Proposal would increase shared revenue and enable sales tax for Milwaukee, with strings attached.

City Hall: City May Close Libraries, Cut 25% of Police and Fire Departments
City Hall

City May Close Libraries, Cut 25% of Police and Fire Departments

Milwaukee faces $156 million fiscal cliff without state help.

City Hall: Council Bans Food Trucks Along Four Blocks of Water Street
City Hall

Council Bans Food Trucks Along Four Blocks of Water Street

Unanimous vote for stretch north of bar district may be precursor to citywide regulations.

City Hall: Milwaukee Could Ban TikTok
City Hall

Milwaukee Could Ban TikTok

Security-driven decision could end free advertising medium for public library and other uses by city.

City Hall: City Faces Problems With 911 Call Center?
City Hall

City Faces Problems With 911 Call Center?

Millions spent, repeated delays and hours of closed door meetings suggest a problem launching system.

City Hall: Court Strikes Down City’s Towing Policy
City Hall

Court Strikes Down City’s Towing Policy

No more public filing of towing costs required of companies. But ruling allows drop fees.

City Hall: Gas Station Porn Video Spurs Revamp of City’s Licensing Process
City Hall

Gas Station Porn Video Spurs Revamp of City’s Licensing Process

It's a strange tale, with three suits against the city forcing council to change its process.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Approves Vape Shop Moratorium
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Approves Vape Shop Moratorium

No new e-cigarette stores until August. City must now craft a regulatory framework.

City Residents Push for Lead Cleanup at ARPA Meeting

City Residents Push for Lead Cleanup at ARPA Meeting

Coalition on Lead Emergency questions how last $92 million in federal funds will be spent.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Seeks To Limit New Vape Shops
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Seeks To Limit New Vape Shops

But questions abound on the legality and strategy of any bans or limits.

City Hall: Council Overrides Mayor Johnson’s First Vetoes
City Hall

Council Overrides Mayor Johnson’s First Vetoes

Actions finalize 2023 budget with no cuts to libraries or fire department.

City Hall: Chambers, Brostoff Sworn In As Aldermen
City Hall

Chambers, Brostoff Sworn In As Aldermen

New council members welcomed by colleagues, face budget veto override vote next week.

Mayor Vetoes Library, Fire Service Cut Restorations in 2023 Milwaukee Budget

Mayor Vetoes Library, Fire Service Cut Restorations in 2023 Milwaukee Budget

In making first veto, Johnson offers compromise to Common Council.

Mark Chambers, Jr. Wins Aldermanic Seat Last Held By Cavalier Johnson

Mark Chambers, Jr. Wins Aldermanic Seat Last Held By Cavalier Johnson

State Rep. Jonathan Brostoff also wins seat on Common Council.

Eyes on Milwaukee: New House Hits Snag With Historic Commission
Eyes on Milwaukee

New House Hits Snag With Historic Commission

Home owners must come before commission a third time with revised plan in December.

City Hall: When Will Nikiya Dodd Resign?
City Hall

When Will Nikiya Dodd Resign?

Alderwoman returns after six-week absence, declines to answer any questions from press.

Council Reverses Cuts, Raises Fees In Adopting 2023 Milwaukee Budget

Council Reverses Cuts, Raises Fees In Adopting 2023 Milwaukee Budget

But police will still see service reduction and drastic cuts will come in future years without changes at state level.

City Hall: Where Is Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd?
City Hall

Where Is Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd?

Alderwoman is expected to resign, has missed last two council meetings.

10 Ways to Make City More Sustainable

10 Ways to Make City More Sustainable

Climate change task force plan offers 'big ideas' to make Milwaukee more sustainable and equitable.

City Hall: Council Beefing Up Negotiation Team In Advance of Public Safety Contract Talks
City Hall

Council Beefing Up Negotiation Team In Advance of Public Safety Contract Talks

Funding comes from City Attorney's Office.

City Hall: Mayor, Council At Odds Over How To Prepare For Fiscal Cliff
City Hall

Mayor, Council At Odds Over How To Prepare For Fiscal Cliff

But there is unanimous agreement that city faces a looming crisis.

City Hall: Milwaukee Spending $1.5 Million On Lawsuits, Including Two Police Conduct Cases
City Hall

Milwaukee Spending $1.5 Million On Lawsuits, Including Two Police Conduct Cases

And another $1.5 million in settlements is pending.

City Hall: Library Poised To Cut Services At 5 Branches In 2023
City Hall

Library Poised To Cut Services At 5 Branches In 2023

Council debates what libraries and if service could be restored.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Cream City Brick House Proposed For East Side
Eyes on Milwaukee

Cream City Brick House Proposed For East Side

Developer Juli Kaufmann would build new residence with reclaimed brick.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Neighbors Give Up, Historic Commission Rules Summit Homes Not Historic
Eyes on Milwaukee

Neighbors Give Up, Historic Commission Rules Summit Homes Not Historic

But proposed apartment building still needs zoning change.

City Hall: What Two Fire Stations Will Milwaukee Fire Department Cut?
City Hall

What Two Fire Stations Will Milwaukee Fire Department Cut?

Or will an influx of Medicaid money stave off cut?

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Loses Again In Bid To Prevent Columbia Hospital Demolition
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Loses Again In Bid To Prevent Columbia Hospital Demolition

All of the windows now gone from the building while city seeks appeals court ruling.

City Hall: Treasurer Coggs Rejects Budget Cuts
City Hall

Treasurer Coggs Rejects Budget Cuts

Mayor's proposed budget eliminates temporary workers, could begin eliminating practice of paying taxes in person.

City Hall: Juneteenth Now An Official City Holiday
City Hall

Juneteenth Now An Official City Holiday

Ald. Milele Coggs leads the charge for full city recognition after 2014 'halfway measure'.

City Hall: Mayor Johnson Introduces First Budget
City Hall

Mayor Johnson Introduces First Budget

Budget raises fees, taxes, cuts police, library hours as a result of 'broken' state funding system.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Fight Over Former Columbia Hospital Heads Back To Court
Eyes on Milwaukee

Fight Over Former Columbia Hospital Heads Back To Court

City appeals ruling, seeks to block UWM's further demolition of hospital.

City Hall: It’s City Budget Education Week
City Hall

It’s City Budget Education Week

Why does Milwaukee face a fiscal crisis? What can be done? Virtual events will provide answers.

City Hall: Who Will Run To Replace Hamilton and Lewis?
City Hall

Who Will Run To Replace Hamilton and Lewis?

Four of 15 Common Council seats are vacant or due to be. Is Rep. David Bowen running?

Eyes on Milwaukee: UWM Demolishing Former Columbia Hospital
Eyes on Milwaukee

UWM Demolishing Former Columbia Hospital

City could still sue, but time is running out.

Chambers vs. Ballard For Common Council Seat

Chambers vs. Ballard For Common Council Seat

Chambers gets 60% of vote in three-way primary to fill mayor's former council seat.

All The Candidates In Aug. 9 Primary Election

All The Candidates In Aug. 9 Primary Election

Including contested races for governor, U.S. senator, Congress, sheriff, clerk of circuit court.

Mayor Johnson Goes To Harvard

Mayor Johnson Goes To Harvard

Milwaukee's leader among 40 mayors participating in Harvard City Leadership Program.

Friday Photos: Work Underway on East Side Affordable Apartments
Friday Photos

Work Underway on East Side Affordable Apartments

New building located at the northern end of Water Street

Eyes on Milwaukee: Historic Commission Okays 55-Unit East Side Apartment Building
Eyes on Milwaukee

Historic Commission Okays 55-Unit East Side Apartment Building

But St. Mark's church project may face a more contentious zoning hearing.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Court Says UWM Can Demolish Columbia Hospital
Eyes on Milwaukee

Court Says UWM Can Demolish Columbia Hospital

City loses suit opposing this and may decide not to appeal decision.

City Hall: Mayor Johnson’s New HR Director Gets Committee Endorsement
City Hall

Mayor Johnson’s New HR Director Gets Committee Endorsement

Harper Donahue would move from the City of Madison to Milwaukee.

City Hall: ARPA Funds Can’t Plug City Budget Hole
City Hall

ARPA Funds Can’t Plug City Budget Hole

Deficit keeps growing and even devoting every ARPA dollar to it won't solve problem.

Bar Exam: Thurman’s Is Back From The Dead
Bar Exam

Thurman’s Is Back From The Dead

Closed for more than a year, the baseball/Grateful Dead-themed bar off Brady Street returns.

How to Make Your Voice Heard Without An Alder

How to Make Your Voice Heard Without An Alder

2nd and 3rd districts, formerly held by Mayor Johnson and Nik Kovac, now lack representation.

City Hall: Ieshuh Griffin Booted From Ballot In Two Aldermanic Races
City Hall

Ieshuh Griffin Booted From Ballot In Two Aldermanic Races

Griffin attempted to run to replace both Cavalier Johnson and Nik Kovac.

City Hall: Street Lighting Still Burning Issue For City
City Hall

Street Lighting Still Burning Issue For City

Lights are frequently out. Council allocates $20 million to replace them, but effort may take years to complete.

City Hall: Special Election Called For Kovac’s Seat
City Hall

Special Election Called For Kovac’s Seat

Veteran alderman is now the city budget director. Primary would be on August 9

City Hall: Three Candidates Running To Replace Cavalier Johnson On Council
City Hall

Three Candidates Running To Replace Cavalier Johnson On Council

Including one candidate that just challenged Johnson for mayor.

City Hall: Committee Backs Kovac For Budget Director
City Hall

Committee Backs Kovac For Budget Director

A unanimous vote for alderman, whose resignation is expected to occur May 9.

City Hall: Milwaukee Adding 37 New Wards
City Hall

Milwaukee Adding 37 New Wards

Supreme Court ruling changed state legislators for some city residents, requiring additional map revisions.

Ryan Clancy Launches Campaign For State Assembly

Ryan Clancy Launches Campaign For State Assembly

County supervisor is backed by Rep. Brostoff, who he is running to replace.

Mayor, Students Celebrate Arbor Day With Tree Planting

Mayor, Students Celebrate Arbor Day With Tree Planting

Mayor Johnson, DPW plant trees along 30th Street corridor with students from nearby schools.

City Hall: Perez Shakes Up Committee Assignments
City Hall

Perez Shakes Up Committee Assignments

Musical chairs game has new leaders at the helm of city's most powerful committees.

City Hall: Vliet Street Reconstruction Gets Federal Funding
City Hall

Vliet Street Reconstruction Gets Federal Funding

Plus: Humboldt reconstruction nearly 50% over budget and the future of Highway 175.

City Hall: Special Election Called For Northside Aldermanic Seat
City Hall

Special Election Called For Northside Aldermanic Seat

Winner will replace newly-elected Mayor Cavalier Johnson.

Statement on the election of Alderman José Pérez as Common Council President
Press Release

Statement on the election of Alderman José Pérez as Common Council President

By Common Council members: Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II April 19, 2022

Rep. Brostoff Will Run For Aldermanic Seat

Rep. Brostoff Will Run For Aldermanic Seat

Jonathan Brostoff will seek seat being vacated by Nik Kovac and won't run for re-election to State Assembly.

Perez Elected Common Council President

Perez Elected Common Council President

Ald. Jose Perez is first Latino to lead council. Fills vacancy created by Johnson's election as mayor.

Mayor Selects Alderman Nik Kovac to Serve as Budget Director
City Hall: Ald. Kovac Named Budget Director, Will Resign Council Seat
City Hall

Ald. Kovac Named Budget Director, Will Resign Council Seat

Kovac has represented the East Side and Riverwest since 2008.

What’s It Worth?: The Curious Story of the ‘LIFE’ Building
What’s It Worth?

The Curious Story of the ‘LIFE’ Building

1927 building built with tavern earnings now home to Community Roofing & Restoration.

Eyes on Milwaukee: The Fight Over Columbia Hospital
Eyes on Milwaukee

The Fight Over Columbia Hospital

Council poised to give building historic protection; UWM could sue.

City Hall: New Assessments Hike Residential Values By 17.7%
City Hall

New Assessments Hike Residential Values By 17.7%

Property values surging across the entire city, but won't necessary mean a tax increase.

Transportation: Traffic Calming Efforts Advancing On Two Downtown Arteries
Transportation

Traffic Calming Efforts Advancing On Two Downtown Arteries

Water and Van Buren streets would be rebuilt with a focus on safety.

Meet Milwaukee’s New Mayor Cavalier Johnson

Meet Milwaukee’s New Mayor Cavalier Johnson

Johnson, first elected Black mayor in Milwaukee history, promises to focus on crime, jobs, neighborhoods and relationship with state.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Former Hospital Designated Historic
Eyes on Milwaukee

Former Hospital Designated Historic

HPC decision made despite UWM's objections. But alderman thinks real fight yet to come.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Four-Story Riverwest Apartments Okayed By Plan Commission
Eyes on Milwaukee

Four-Story Riverwest Apartments Okayed By Plan Commission

Development team hopes to open 91-unit building, food accelerator in summer 2023.

Eyes on Milwaukee: UWM Plan To Raze Columbia Hospital Stalled
Eyes on Milwaukee

UWM Plan To Raze Columbia Hospital Stalled

Historic Preservation Commission grants building temporary historic designation.

Transportation: Van Buren Could Receive Protected Bike Lane
Transportation

Van Buren Could Receive Protected Bike Lane

City of Milwaukee considering three options.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Huge River House Expansion Advancing
Eyes on Milwaukee

Huge River House Expansion Advancing

Council committee supports subsidy to extend riverwalk segment for addition of two-building apartment complex.

Transportation: City Poised To Use $8.5 Million From TIFs to Combat Reckless Driving
Transportation

City Poised To Use $8.5 Million From TIFs to Combat Reckless Driving

Projects located near Midtown Center, Burnham Park and East Town.

Council Suspends Mangos Cafe For 30 Days

Council Suspends Mangos Cafe For 30 Days

Issues outside of bar draw ire of neighbors

City Hall: Dimitrijevic’s Parental Leave Policy Passed
City Hall

Dimitrijevic’s Parental Leave Policy Passed

Council votes 10-2 in favor, but measure reduced from 12 to six weeks paid leave.

Statement on the passing of Dr. Lester Carter
Press Release

Statement on the passing of Dr. Lester Carter

Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II.

City Hall: Anti-Harassment Policy Expanded After City Attorney Case
City Hall

Anti-Harassment Policy Expanded After City Attorney Case

Effort took more than a year, from investigation to enactment.

City Moving Toward Cash Vaccination Incentives, Free Rapid Tests

City Moving Toward Cash Vaccination Incentives, Free Rapid Tests

But first the city must figure out how it can purchase the tests.

Milwaukee Arts Board Announces 2022 Application Cycle for Public Art Conservation Fund
Thank you, Governor Tony Evers
Press Release

Thank you, Governor Tony Evers

Statement from members of the Common Council: Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Nik Kovac, and Alderman Mark A. Borkowski

Murphy’s Law: County Pension Bonds Saved Up To $269 Million
Murphy’s Law

County Pension Bonds Saved Up To $269 Million

Could the city use this financial mechanism to lower costs?

Council Suspends Downtown’s ELMNT Lounge For 60 Days

Council Suspends Downtown’s ELMNT Lounge For 60 Days

Action taken after police and others argue over how a homicide near bar was handled.

Friday Photos: Bucks Player’s Brady St. Building A Neat Fit
Friday Photos

Bucks Player’s Brady St. Building A Neat Fit

Second Milwaukee project by Pat Connaughton's company blends into historic street.

Now Serving: New Vegan Restaurant For East Side
Now Serving

New Vegan Restaurant For East Side

Plus: indoor dining returns to Uncle Wolfies. West Allis cafe gets new name. And a downtown bar gets suspended.

City Hall: Milwaukee Releases Draft Plan For New Council Districts
City Hall

Milwaukee Releases Draft Plan For New Council Districts

Every aldermanic district would change under proposed plan.

State bill would erase city’s move to decriminalize marijuana possession, increase minimum penalty to $100
Press Release

State bill would erase city’s move to decriminalize marijuana possession, increase minimum penalty to $100

Statement from members of the Common Council: Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Eyes on Milwaukee: Zoning Committee Okays Factory-to-Housing Conversions
Eyes on Milwaukee

Zoning Committee Okays Factory-to-Housing Conversions

Former dairy plant and one-time Perlick factory could both become housing.

City Hall: Milwaukee Adopts New Ward Map For City
City Hall

Milwaukee Adopts New Ward Map For City

New districts coming next week. Riverwest further split between two council districts.

Duke’s on Water, Scooter’s Pub Suspended

Duke’s on Water, Scooter’s Pub Suspended

Two bars will be closed Nov. 26 through Dec. 15 due to issues in police report.

City Hall: Milwaukee Adopts ‘Calm Before The Storm’ 2022 Budget
City Hall

Milwaukee Adopts ‘Calm Before The Storm’ 2022 Budget

No fee increases and small tax increase as city bolsters pension reserve fund in anticipation of fiscal cliff.

Transportation: Van Buren Will Become Two Lane Street
Transportation

Van Buren Will Become Two Lane Street

New bike lanes and parallel parking added, as four lanes for cars reduced to two.

Mandela Barnes Earns Over 100 Endorsements from Wisconsin Elected Officials in Race for U.S. Senate
Press Release

Mandela Barnes Earns Over 100 Endorsements from Wisconsin Elected Officials in Race for U.S. Senate

Barnes Has Built an Unparalleled Statewide Coalition to Defeat Ron Johnson

City Hall: Committee Recommends Few Budget Amendments
City Hall

Committee Recommends Few Budget Amendments

No fee increases and few changes as council braces for next year's fiscal cliff.

Housing Authority employee target of attempted carjacking
Press Release

Housing Authority employee target of attempted carjacking

Statement from members of the Common Council: Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W Stamper, II

Eyes on Milwaukee: School Will Be Redeveloped, But Into What?
Eyes on Milwaukee

School Will Be Redeveloped, But Into What?

Committee endorses zoning change for former Catholic school on East Side.

Common Council approves of ARPA funding for MLK Library development
Eyes on Milwaukee: Dairy-Centric Apartment Building Wins Plan Commission Approval
Eyes on Milwaukee

Dairy-Centric Apartment Building Wins Plan Commission Approval

Kendall Breunig plans to convert former plant to 17 apartments.

City Hall: Council Strikes Deal On How To Spend $179 Million ARPA Allocation
City Hall

Council Strikes Deal On How To Spend $179 Million ARPA Allocation

Housing, lead abatement, child care, police recruits, violence prevention, a new MLK library and more.

Committee recommends approval of ARPA omnibus proposal
Press Release

Committee recommends approval of ARPA omnibus proposal

Includes funding for public safety and crime prevention, housing, lead abatement, continued COVID response and more

City Hall: Common Council Has 7 Times The Ideas As It Has Funding
City Hall

Common Council Has 7 Times The Ideas As It Has Funding

82 ideas for how to spend $394.2 million federal grant. What will council choose?

Council looks to maximize positive benefits with ARPA-funded housing rehab and construction work
City Hall: Homicides, Shootings, Auto Thefts All At Record Highs
City Hall

Homicides, Shootings, Auto Thefts All At Record Highs

MPD Acting Chief Jeffrey Norman presents vision of community-centered approach to solving issues.

Friday Photos: Work Nears Completion on New Brady Street Building
Friday Photos

Work Nears Completion on New Brady Street Building

Two-story building replaces vacant lot.

City Hall: 12 Options to Solve Milwaukee’s Fiscal Crisis
City Hall

12 Options to Solve Milwaukee’s Fiscal Crisis

Nine are bad says alderman. Without solution Milwaukee would need to cut one-fourth of workforce.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Plan Commission Okays East Side Project
Eyes on Milwaukee

Plan Commission Okays East Side Project

But with conditions. Former Saints Peter and Paul building could be redeveloped in many ways.

What’s It Worth?: Prospect Ave. Building Built By Lumber Baron
What’s It Worth?

Prospect Ave. Building Built By Lumber Baron

Now owned by PR man Carl Mueller, selling converted mansion for $1.5 million.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Catholic School Could Become Apartments, Hotel or Arts Collective
Eyes on Milwaukee

Catholic School Could Become Apartments, Hotel or Arts Collective

Or maybe something else. Neighbors hear proposal for former St. Peter St. Paul School on East Side.

City Hall: Turmoil, Toxic Work Environment at City Attorney’s Office
City Hall

Turmoil, Toxic Work Environment at City Attorney’s Office

Resignation forms cite ethical violations, poor treatment of women & more by Tearman Spencer.

Eyes on Milwaukee: East Side Historic District Could Expand
Eyes on Milwaukee

East Side Historic District Could Expand

Move to designate two Summit Ave. homes spurs proposal to expand North Point South Historic District.

City Hall: Census Data Shows Changing Milwaukee Demographics
City Hall

Census Data Shows Changing Milwaukee Demographics

Fewer white residents citywide, but shrinking population totals in many majority-Black neighborhoods.

City Hall: Committee OK’s ARPA Funding for Ambulances, Reckless Driving and Eviction Prevention
City Hall

Committee OK’s ARPA Funding for Ambulances, Reckless Driving and Eviction Prevention

Finance & Personnel Committee recommends spending $14 million of city's $394 million ARPA allocation.

Beerline Shuffle community walk takes place this Saturday
Press Release

Beerline Shuffle community walk takes place this Saturday

The walk will begin and end at the Beerline Plaza located at 3350 N. Holton Street, and the route will feature a scavenger hunt, live music and multiple community art projects.

Congratulations Colectivo workers
Press Release

Congratulations Colectivo workers

Joint statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman José G. Pérez and Alderman Scott Spiker

Transportation: City Creating Zoning Code For EV Chargers
Transportation

City Creating Zoning Code For EV Chargers

City anticipates surge in electric vehicles and could get federal money for charging stations.

Eighteen Milwaukee Local Elected Officials Endorse Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes for U.S. Senate
Eyes on Milwaukee: Summit Houses Historic, For Now
Eyes on Milwaukee

Summit Houses Historic, For Now

The two houses are part of proposed apartment building site. Are they being demolished out of spite?

City Hall: Proposal Requires Vaccinations for City Employees
City Hall

Proposal Requires Vaccinations for City Employees

More than 6,000 city workers would need to get vaccinated or face weekly testing.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Historic Designation Could Block East Side Apartments
Eyes on Milwaukee

Historic Designation Could Block East Side Apartments

A seven-story 90 unit apartment complex versus two modest 1899 homes.

Transportation: Arlington Place Now A Two-Way Street
Transportation

Arlington Place Now A Two-Way Street

It's now a little bit easier to get around the East Side.

City Hall: Six Council Members Want Tougher Pandemic Rules
City Hall

Six Council Members Want Tougher Pandemic Rules

Push mayor for indoor mask mandate and mandatory vaccinations for city employees.

Eyes on Milwaukee: The 1500s on Jefferson Street Okayed
Eyes on Milwaukee

The 1500s on Jefferson Street Okayed

City committee approves, but not before opponent sings six-verse rap as public testimony.

Eyes on Milwaukee: East Side Apartment Complex Gets Key Approval
Eyes on Milwaukee

East Side Apartment Complex Gets Key Approval

"Overwhelming" opposition doesn't stop approval of new affordable housing complex.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Plan Commission Approves East Side Affordable Housing Design
Eyes on Milwaukee

Plan Commission Approves East Side Affordable Housing Design

79-unit apartment complex on Water Street approved despite neighbors concerns.

City Task Force Considers Unarmed First Responders

City Task Force Considers Unarmed First Responders

Unarmed responders would field calls for non-violent crimes.

Council approves resolution related to ARPA fund distribution and tracking
Eyes on Milwaukee: New Apartments for N. Water St. Draw Opposition
Eyes on Milwaukee

New Apartments for N. Water St. Draw Opposition

Brandon Rule seeks to build workforce housing development along Milwaukee River.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Plan Commission Okays East Side Project
Eyes on Milwaukee

Plan Commission Okays East Side Project

But driveways to four townhomes take away street parking on Jefferson, which concerns some.

City Hall: Council Closes Gare-Bear’s On N. 27th St.
City Hall

Council Closes Gare-Bear’s On N. 27th St.

The tavern's liquor license renewal was denied after the owner determined to be indifferent to neighborhood concerns.

Unarmed First Responders Task Force now underway
Reckless driving behavior continues to be a detriment to our community
Press Release

Reckless driving behavior continues to be a detriment to our community

Joint statement from members of the Common Council – Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Mark Borkowski and Alderman José G. Pérez

Derogatory comments aimed at Milwaukee miss the mark
Transportation: Trees, Transit Thwart Riverwest Bike Lanes Plan
Transportation

Trees, Transit Thwart Riverwest Bike Lanes Plan

Humboldt Boulevard won't get protected bike lane because it would kill too many trees.

City Hall: Mayor Creates Pension Crisis Task Force
City Hall

Mayor Creates Pension Crisis Task Force

City needs to find an additional $77 million annually starting in 2023.

City Hall: City Could Spend $100,000 To Argue Over $100,000
City Hall

City Could Spend $100,000 To Argue Over $100,000

Fight between City Attorney Tearman Spencer and Common Council getting worse.

City Hall: Council Approves Federal Drug Trafficking Grants
City Hall

Council Approves Federal Drug Trafficking Grants

Activist asks what success fighting War on Drugs looks like? MPD lists arrests, seizures.

Council approves George Floyd Justice in Policing Act file
Friday Photos: Brady Street Development Underway
Friday Photos

Brady Street Development Underway

Two-story building will replace vacant lot.

City Hall: Stimulus Funds Won’t Cancel Streetlighting Fee
City Hall

Stimulus Funds Won’t Cancel Streetlighting Fee

Sorry taxpayers, money from fee can't be replaced by pandemic aid, federal rules say.

Eyes on Milwaukee: East Side Condo Plan Still a Parking Lot
Eyes on Milwaukee

East Side Condo Plan Still a Parking Lot

Eight-story project on Prospect delayed. Developer requests 5 more years for a parking lot.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Meet The 1500s
Eyes on Milwaukee

Meet The 1500s

Office building and four townhomes planned for Jefferson Street.

Milwaukee Tool deal is important to our city on multiple levels
Press Release

Milwaukee Tool deal is important to our city on multiple levels

Joint statement from Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic

City Hall: Council Closes Junior’s Cocktail Lounge
City Hall

Council Closes Junior’s Cocktail Lounge

After 22 police calls, $26,500 in COVID-19 fines and many neighbor complaints, council votes to shut down bar.

Council approves transparency file for receipt and distribution of ARPA funds
2021 Arbor Day Marks Start of New Beer Tradition

2021 Arbor Day Marks Start of New Beer Tradition

City's annual holiday tree is now funding tree planting.

Tearman Spencer Vs. City Hall

Tearman Spencer Vs. City Hall

New City Attorney is quite public with his frustrations with those he is tasked with representing.

City Hall: Pension Costs Will Cause Huge Worker Layoffs
City Hall

Pension Costs Will Cause Huge Worker Layoffs

One-sixth of city workforce projected for cuts by 2026, with added cuts in future years.

City Hall: City Must Decide How To Spend $405 Million
City Hall

City Must Decide How To Spend $405 Million

Latest federal COVID-19 stimulus plan creates pleasant challenge for mayor, council.

Meet the District 5 School Board Candidates

Meet the District 5 School Board Candidates

Alex Brower and Jilly Gokalgandhi compete to replace outgoing school board director Larry Miller.

City Hall: Milwaukee Could Suspend Street Lighting Fee
City Hall

Milwaukee Could Suspend Street Lighting Fee

But property owners will need to pay at least once.

City Hall: City Rejects Hawley Rd. Flood Settlement
City Hall

City Rejects Hawley Rd. Flood Settlement

Residents left soaked with costs after settlement agreement falls apart. Their attorney thinks it might cost even more to sue.

City Hall: Council Wants Ann Wilson Off Fire & Police Commission
City Hall

Council Wants Ann Wilson Off Fire & Police Commission

9-6 vote against her reappointment. But they lack the authority to remove her.

Eyes on Milwaukee: North and Summit Apartment Proposal Revised
Eyes on Milwaukee

North and Summit Apartment Proposal Revised

Seven-story building drew substantial opposition when introduced last year.

City Hall: Proposal Ends Fines for Pot Possession
City Hall

Proposal Ends Fines for Pot Possession

No fines for possession of up to one ounce of marijuana for a first-time offense.

Friday Photos: New East Side Homes
Friday Photos

New East Side Homes

Two new houses rising in North Point historic district.

Collaborative, community focused approach needed for stimulus fund allocation
Press Release

Collaborative, community focused approach needed for stimulus fund allocation

Joint statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Common Council honors Dr. Joan Prince for decades of service to Milwaukee
Press Release

Common Council honors Dr. Joan Prince for decades of service to Milwaukee

Joint statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Pushes Century City to Make USPS Trucks
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Pushes Century City to Make USPS Trucks

Council members and mayor urge Oshkosh Corporation to consider Milwaukee location.

Sales Tax Proposal Would Increase Revenue Diversification, Support Local Communities
Press Release

Sales Tax Proposal Would Increase Revenue Diversification, Support Local Communities

Joint statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Jose G. Perez, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II and Alderman Nik Kovac

Council members to join ministers, legal experts and renters to urge funding remedy amid COVID housing crisis
Continuing King Drive is continuing the work of Dr. King
Press Release

Continuing King Drive is continuing the work of Dr. King

Statement of Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs January 22, 2021

On the passing of Henry “Hank” Aaron
Press Release

On the passing of Henry “Hank” Aaron

From all members of the Common Council -- Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

City Hall: What Can City Do About Pension Crisis?
City Hall

What Can City Do About Pension Crisis?

Milwaukee must find at least $90 million annually starting in 2023. All options are on the table.

Another Step in a 1,000-mile Journey
Press Release

Another Step in a 1,000-mile Journey

Joint statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Mark Borkowski and Alderman José G. Pérez

Joint Statement on the Passing of Ms. Maria Monreal-Cameron
Press Release

Joint Statement on the Passing of Ms. Maria Monreal-Cameron

From members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

City Hall: Council Overrides Mayoral Veto, Wants Power To Fire Police Chief
City Hall

Council Overrides Mayoral Veto, Wants Power To Fire Police Chief

Council wants Legislature to give it firing power. Mayor's veto of this fails.

City Hall: Council Okays Federal COPS Grant, But…
City Hall

Council Okays Federal COPS Grant, But…

Police department agrees to certain conditions for grant intended to reform operations.

City Hall: Municipal Court Firing Debt Collector
City Hall

Municipal Court Firing Debt Collector

Duncan Solutions being dropped less than a year after deal started.

City Hall: New City HR Director Impresses Alders
City Hall

New City HR Director Impresses Alders

Makda Fessahaye's appointment as employee relations director wins unanimous committee approval.

Transportation: Milwaukee Seeks Data for Vision Zero Push
Transportation

Milwaukee Seeks Data for Vision Zero Push

Consultant would identify dangerous interactions, develop predictive model.

Flames of insurrection and victimhood lead to siege of the People’s House
Press Release

Flames of insurrection and victimhood lead to siege of the People’s House

From Alderwoman Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman Nik Kovac and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Joint Statement on Charging Decision in Jacob Blake Case
Press Release

Joint Statement on Charging Decision in Jacob Blake Case

From members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman José G. Pérez and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic

We All Know What “ZIP Code” is Code For
Press Release

We All Know What “ZIP Code” is Code For

From Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman Jóse G. Pérez and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II,

Op Ed: Vote No on COPS Grant
Op Ed

Vote No on COPS Grant

We don't want the grant today, tomorrow or next month.

City Hall: Council, Mayor Clash Over Police Grant
City Hall

Council, Mayor Clash Over Police Grant

Nine council members blast Barrett, claiming he's not committed to police reform.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Forest Home Library Not Historic, Clinic Approved
Eyes on Milwaukee

Forest Home Library Not Historic, Clinic Approved

Council clears way to demolish old library, build new Children's Hospital southside clinic.

It’s Not Just About 30 Police Officers
Press Release

It’s Not Just About 30 Police Officers

The debate about the federal COPS grant is really about long-term commitments and generational change

City Hall: Council Wants Control Over Police and Fire Chiefs
City Hall

Council Wants Control Over Police and Fire Chiefs

Seeking changes to state law to give city's elected officials control.

City Hall: Council Moves To Reject Federal COPS Grant
City Hall

Council Moves To Reject Federal COPS Grant

Means 30 fewer officers, leaving Milwaukee down by 150 officers in 2021.

City Hall: Council Delays on Federal COPS Grant
City Hall

Council Delays on Federal COPS Grant

Would fund 30 positions, prevent more police reductions, but presents future fiscal issues.

Recount seeks to delegitimize our votes in a failed attempt to steal an election
Press Release

Recount seeks to delegitimize our votes in a failed attempt to steal an election

Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council – Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II and Alderman Ashanti Hamilton

Eyes on Milwaukee: Riverwest Apartment Complex Planned
Eyes on Milwaukee

Riverwest Apartment Complex Planned

Affordable housing project with 91 apartments and food accelerator on E. North Ave.

Transportation: Ride the Riverwest Bike Boulevards
Transportation

Ride the Riverwest Bike Boulevards

After three years, Riverwest's bike boulevards on Wright and Fratney streets are ready.

Transportation: Budget Amendment Would Move Milwaukee Towards “Vision Zero”
Transportation

Budget Amendment Would Move Milwaukee Towards “Vision Zero”

Proposal start of an effort to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries.

City Hall: Committee Approves Over 20 Amendments To Milwaukee Budget
City Hall

Committee Approves Over 20 Amendments To Milwaukee Budget

Amendments target violence prevention, housing, lead abatement and more.

Committee recommends approval of omnibus budget amendment
Press Release

Committee recommends approval of omnibus budget amendment

Amendment provides funding for healthy food access, lead abatement, CART teams and Community Collaborative Commission, among other initiatives

SafeHomes initiative expands lead abatement efforts for a lead-free Milwaukee
The “Molotov Cocktail” That Wasn’t

The “Molotov Cocktail” That Wasn’t

MPD admits the 6th and McKinley weapon was just a plastic water bottle.

City Hall: MPD Assistant Chief Gets Denver Suburb’s Top Job
City Hall

MPD Assistant Chief Gets Denver Suburb’s Top Job

Terrence Gordon will be Thornton, CO police chief as MPD turnover continues.

City Hall: City Could Lose 30 More Police Officers
City Hall

City Could Lose 30 More Police Officers

Federal grant rules could mean cutting 30 more than proposed cut of 120 cops.

Communication file on social justice issues going before Steering and Rules Committee
City Hall: Council Backs New Handling of 911 Calls
City Hall

Council Backs New Handling of 911 Calls

Wants MPD and FPC to develop approach where unarmed professionals handle non-violent social issues.

Council approves creating unarmed first responder program
City Hall: About That Proposed Street Lighting Fee
City Hall

About That Proposed Street Lighting Fee

Average homeowner fee is $45 per year so city could replace 100-year-old circuitry

City-County Climate Equity Goals Are Big

City-County Climate Equity Goals Are Big

Preliminary report calls for comprehensive plan, 45% cut in emissions by 2030, 100% by 2050.

Statement on Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Press Release

Statement on Indigenous Peoples’ Day

From members of the Milwaukee Common Council – Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Communication file introduced to source community input on social justice issues
Committee passes motion relating to protective services vacancies
Press Release

Committee passes motion relating to protective services vacancies

Would require MPD to explore possibility of filling openings by non-sworn employees

Wisconsin municipalities should be able to count mail-in ballots early
Press Release

Wisconsin municipalities should be able to count mail-in ballots early

Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council – Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

South Side Mourns Death of Jason Cleereman

South Side Mourns Death of Jason Cleereman

Immigration attorney, neighborhood leader lost to senseless killing.

Council approves resolution directing creation of zero-tolerance racism and sexism policy
Press Release

Council approves resolution directing creation of zero-tolerance racism and sexism policy

FPC to discuss policy at tonight’s meeting

Milwaukee loses a strong community advocate to senseless shooting
Press Release

Milwaukee loses a strong community advocate to senseless shooting

Joint statement from Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Nik Kovac and Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa

We have your back, Colectivo workers
Press Release

We have your back, Colectivo workers

Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council – Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman Scott Spiker and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic

City Hall: Milwaukee’s Bond Rating Cut Two Levels
City Hall

Milwaukee’s Bond Rating Cut Two Levels

Change in rating by S&P Global will raise cost to borrow money, add to city's budget woes.

City Hall: City Made $8.6 Million Debt Mistake
City Hall

City Made $8.6 Million Debt Mistake

Past Comptroller blamed. Mistake equivalent to all the salaries of health department staff.

‘Complete Streets’ Projects Focus on Health and Safety

‘Complete Streets’ Projects Focus on Health and Safety

In 2019, majority of projects were completed in areas with economic disparities.

City Hall: 120 Officer Cut May Be Just The Beginning
City Hall

120 Officer Cut May Be Just The Beginning

The Milwaukee Police Department will have fewer officers in 2021, but the question is how many?

Milwaukee athletes take a stand in support of racial justice
Press Release

Milwaukee athletes take a stand in support of racial justice

Joint statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council – Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Nik Kovac and Alderman Scott Spiker

Lamar refuses billboard ads with Black Lives Matter content
Press Release

Lamar refuses billboard ads with Black Lives Matter content

Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council – Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Nik Kovac and Alderman José G. Pérez 

City Hall: Milwaukee Ends Compost Program
City Hall

Milwaukee Ends Compost Program

As recently as February the city was planning to greatly expand it.

City Hall: Assessment Commissioner Keeps His Job
City Hall

Assessment Commissioner Keeps His Job

Once expected to face a close vote, Steve Miner gets council approval on 13-2 vote.

City Hall: Council’s Police Reform Wish List Grows
City Hall

Council’s Police Reform Wish List Grows

Council wants still more changes, but can only request Fire & Police Commission to enact them.

Council approves resolution seeking to provide greater broadband access throughout Milwaukee
City Hall: Council Might Fire Assessor Steve Miner
City Hall

Council Might Fire Assessor Steve Miner

Assessment Commissioner finds little support from Judiciary & Legislation Committee.

Too many failures: We have no confidence in Chief Morales
Press Release

Too many failures: We have no confidence in Chief Morales

Joint statement of Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Russell W. Stamper and Alderman Khalif J. Rainey July 20, 2020

City Hall: Food Truck Ban for Downer Ave. Proposed
City Hall

Food Truck Ban for Downer Ave. Proposed

Business owners upset that trucks have loud generators, take up parking spaces.

Remembering John Lewis
Press Release

Remembering John Lewis

Joint statement from Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, and Alderman Khalif J. Rainey July 20, 2020

Public comment sought again for next set of cabinet-level appointees
Press Release

Public comment sought again for next set of cabinet-level appointees

Leadership for Board of Zoning Appeals, Board of Review, Assessor’s Office, Department of Administration and Department of Employee Relations set for next week

City Hall: Council Spending Hours Reviewing Barrett’s Appointments
City Hall

Council Spending Hours Reviewing Barrett’s Appointments

Plenty of praise and criticism for department heads, including Jeff Polenske and Jeanette Kowalik.

Resolutions urging Fire and Police Commission to adopt new reform policies recommended for approval
Public comment wanted for next set of cabinet-level appointees
Press Release

Public comment wanted for next set of cabinet-level appointees

Leadership for Public Works, Water Works, Port, Health Department and Emergency Management & Communications Director set for this week

City Hall: Council Seeks Police Reform, But Will It Happen?
City Hall

Council Seeks Police Reform, But Will It Happen?

Common Council has a growing wish list. Will Fire & Police Commission act?

Selection of next executive director of the Fire and Police Commission must involve community and must be transparent
Press Release

Selection of next executive director of the Fire and Police Commission must involve community and must be transparent

Statement from members of the Common Council: Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Nik Kovac and Alderman Caviler Johnson

City Hall: Mask Mandate Passes Committee
City Hall

Mask Mandate Passes Committee

Proposal would require masks indoors and outdoors, but with limited enforcement.

Council approves ‘weapon drawn’ legislation for FPC to review
Council effort to create lead-safe program moves forward
Resolution requiring Council approval for purchasing of crowd control and militaristic equipment approved today
Protest Day 37: Marches, Celebrations, Calls For Justice
Protest Day 37

Marches, Celebrations, Calls For Justice

Independence Day doesn't distract marchers.

City Hall: Council Grilling, But Advancing Mayoral Appointees
City Hall

Council Grilling, But Advancing Mayoral Appointees

Most being confirmed unanimously after long meetings.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Crump Wins Committee Support to Head DCD
Eyes on Milwaukee

Crump Wins Committee Support to Head DCD

New commissioner would serve in one of most visible, influential administration roles.

City Hall: Fire & Police Commission Director Wins Committee Support For Reappointment
City Hall

Fire & Police Commission Director Wins Committee Support For Reappointment

Griselda Aldrete gets committee support, but needs to pick up five votes from the full council to keep her job.

City Hall: Council Committee Debates Oversight For Police Military-Grade Purchases
City Hall

Council Committee Debates Oversight For Police Military-Grade Purchases

Would require approval for all purchases.

Protests throughout Wisconsin must remain peaceful
Press Release

Protests throughout Wisconsin must remain peaceful

Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council - Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Scott Spiker

Register of Deeds Israel Ramón Announces Early List of Endorsements
Press Release

Register of Deeds Israel Ramón Announces Early List of Endorsements

Elected officials from across Milwaukee County, state, support Ramón

City’s Protesters Under Police Surveillance?

City’s Protesters Under Police Surveillance?

Cops using Stingrays to intercept marchers’ cell phones? Ald. Kovac says city should “investigate the investigators.”

Lower Speed Limits & Active Streets Coming to the East Side
Press Release

Lower Speed Limits & Active Streets Coming to the East Side

East Side businesses are open and ready to serve you!

City Hall: Council Wants No Pay for Suspended Officers
City Hall

Council Wants No Pay for Suspended Officers

Seeks change in state law so city can stop paying suspended cops charged with felonies.

Council passes resolution seeking Juneteenth Day become a federal holiday
City Hall: Council Okays Planning for 10% Police Cut
City Hall

Council Okays Planning for 10% Police Cut

Requires city budget office to model what cut would look like, in time for fall budget debate.

Community deserves to hear from department leaders on plans for change
Press Release

Community deserves to hear from department leaders on plans for change

Joint statement from Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, and Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa

Council passes resolution seeking greater accountability for officers involved in homicides
City Hall: Council Proposes 10% Police Budget Cut
City Hall

Council Proposes 10% Police Budget Cut

11 council members back $30 million cut and investing in other programs.

City Hall: Police Blame Mayor, Council For Murder Rate
City Hall

Police Blame Mayor, Council For Murder Rate

Department uses official account to say budget cuts driving murder rate higher. Data doesn't prove link.

City Holds Emergency Council Meeting To Approve Voting Sites, Why?

City Holds Emergency Council Meeting To Approve Voting Sites, Why?

Move expands early voting access from three to 16 sites.

Chief’s Crucifixion Message Panned by Council

Chief’s Crucifixion Message Panned by Council

13 members sign letter urging Morales: stop chiding protesters and listen to their message.

City Officials Grill Police on Tactics

City Officials Grill Police on Tactics

Still more questions on 6th and McKinley, as council, mayor disagree with police tactics.

State, City Elected Officials Call for Police Reform

State, City Elected Officials Call for Police Reform

Activists, Alders, lawmakers and the governor are calling for policy changes.

Nitty Leads Peaceful March While Protecting Against Assassination

Nitty Leads Peaceful March While Protecting Against Assassination

Seventh-day is a charm as two large marches take place without incident

Many Milwaukee Leaders Support Protests

Many Milwaukee Leaders Support Protests

Community leaders, politicians release statements, Common Council calls for Milwaukee Police reforms.

County Board Unanimously Supports Including Transitional Jobs Program in COVID-19 Relief
Eyes on Milwaukee: Kovac Pushing Ascension To Improve East Side Parking
Eyes on Milwaukee

Kovac Pushing Ascension To Improve East Side Parking

Alderman calls garage design an abomination, wants better signage to let public know of free parking above Whole Foods.

Suburbs’ Policies Ignore Science, Kowalik Charges

Suburbs’ Policies Ignore Science, Kowalik Charges

Suburban elected officials overruling health officers on COVID-19, city official charges.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Assessment Appeal Deadline Extended
Eyes on Milwaukee

Assessment Appeal Deadline Extended

City board gives three week extension, to June 8, for homeowners appealing new assessments.

For Members Only: Join Our Happy Hour Q&A with Nik Kovac
For Members Only

Join Our Happy Hour Q&A with Nik Kovac

Get discounted Gathering Place beers and join our first online happy hour, with an exclusive interview of Ald. Kovac.

City Hall: Council Debates Assessment Process
City Hall

Council Debates Assessment Process

Alders unhappy. Assessor gets grilled about home value hikes in certain neighborhoods.

For Members Only: Join Urban Milwaukee’s Happy Hour Q&A
For Members Only

Join Urban Milwaukee’s Happy Hour Q&A

Get discounted Gathering Place beers and join our first online happy hour. With exclusive interview of Ald. Nik Kovac.

Joint statement on free COVID-19 testing for Milwaukee’s communities of color
Press Release

Joint statement on free COVID-19 testing for Milwaukee’s communities of color

From Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic

City Hall: City To Furlough, Cut Hours For 750 Employees
City Hall

City To Furlough, Cut Hours For 750 Employees

Revenue down $27 million in pandemic and city forced to make cuts.

City Hall: Johnson Chooses Powerful Committee Chairs
City Hall

Johnson Chooses Powerful Committee Chairs

Not every supporter rewarded. New council president says picks reflect experience, not politics.

Common Council President Cavalier Johnson announces 2020-2024 committee assignments
City Hall: 7 COVID-19 Cases From In-Person Voting?
City Hall

7 COVID-19 Cases From In-Person Voting?

Likely to rise as Health Department reviews all data. Council pushes for absentee voting.

City Hall: Johnson Elected Council President
City Hall

Johnson Elected Council President

Second-term Ald. Cavalier Johnson defeats Ashanti Hamilton and Milele Coggs.

City Hall: Proposal Would Mail Milwaukee Voters Absentee Request Forms
City Hall

Proposal Would Mail Milwaukee Voters Absentee Request Forms

Proposal from incoming Dimitrijevic would make it easier for people to vote in November election.

City Hall: Plastic Straw Ban Went Into Effect, Did Anyone Notice?
City Hall

Plastic Straw Ban Went Into Effect, Did Anyone Notice?

As of yesterday, city restaurants and bars must obey. Which is the least of their concerns.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Approves Wisconsin Center Deal
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Approves Wisconsin Center Deal

Expansion approved and could pay $1 million per year to Milwaukee. But Bauman, others doubt it.

2020 Spring Election Results

2020 Spring Election Results

Live City of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County results for the April 7th Spring Election.

Plats and Parcels: Investor Buys Signature Downer Ave Properties
Plats and Parcels

Investor Buys Signature Downer Ave Properties

Seattle firm acquires much of East Side commercial corridor, including Downer Theatre building.

Vote Absentee: Common Council Candidates
Vote Absentee

Common Council Candidates

Ten contested races could reshape 15-member council.

City Hall: Should City Workers Get COVID Bonus?
City Hall

Should City Workers Get COVID Bonus?

Public Works employees can't work from home, face more risk of COVID-19.

City Hall: Council Overrides Mayor’s Veto
City Hall

Council Overrides Mayor’s Veto

Should Friends of Housing contract be terminated? Did mayor violate attorney-client privilege or council violate city charter?

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Delays Convention Expansion?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Delays Convention Expansion?

9-4 vote seeks to prevent convention center expansion during pandemic.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Selling “Prime” E. North Ave Site
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Selling “Prime” E. North Ave Site

Seeks developer for Riverwest site that could host affordable housing.

City Hall: City’s Permit Could Charge Summerfest
City Hall

City’s Permit Could Charge Summerfest

Revised special events permit could charge festival full price of police security.

City Hall: Committee Approves Large Solar Deal After Contentious Debate
City Hall

Committee Approves Large Solar Deal After Contentious Debate

Ald. Bob Bauman's amendments attempt to set baseline, grow value of deal.

Transportation: Streetcar Kiosks Could Bring In $500,000 Annually
Transportation

Streetcar Kiosks Could Bring In $500,000 Annually

System of 35 interactive kiosks could be online as early as May.

Murphy’s Law: Mystery Deepens on Leaked Police Video
Murphy’s Law

Mystery Deepens on Leaked Police Video

More than the video was leaked. Police Department avoids comment. City Attorney helping FPC investigation.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Neighbors React to New East Side Apartment Building
Eyes on Milwaukee

Neighbors React to New East Side Apartment Building

Meeting attendees offer feedback on renderings, ask who secret developers are.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Okays Convention Center Expansion
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Okays Convention Center Expansion

Cost of $300 to $375 million. Murphy questions whether it will fill more hotel rooms.

Eyes on Milwaukee: East Side Home Design Approved
Eyes on Milwaukee

East Side Home Design Approved

After 18 months of debate, two new East Side homes in historic district okayed.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Design of Brady Street Building Approved
Eyes on Milwaukee

Design of Brady Street Building Approved

Bucks guard Pat Connaughton's proposed building sails through historic commission.

Plats and Parcels: Tracking Four Downtown Tower Proposals
Plats and Parcels

Tracking Four Downtown Tower Proposals

Real estate news from Walker's Point, the East Side and Near West Side caps a busy week.

Eyes on Milwaukee: 90-Unit Apartment Complex for East Side
Eyes on Milwaukee

90-Unit Apartment Complex for East Side

Proposal would raze four buildings for seven-story complex across from Columbia St. Mary's Hospital.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Bucks Player to Buy City Lot for $105,000
Eyes on Milwaukee

Bucks Player to Buy City Lot for $105,000

Mixed-use building on Brady Street will be Bucks guard Pat Connaughton's second Milwaukee project.

City Hall: Is Tire Disposal Fee Causing Illegal Dumping?
City Hall

Is Tire Disposal Fee Causing Illegal Dumping?

Council wants data, raises concerns.

Back in the News: Barrett, Hamilton Demand Probe of Leaked Police Video
Back in the News

Barrett, Hamilton Demand Probe of Leaked Police Video

Chief Morales says he didn’t leak it; mayor, council leader want investigation, find out who did.

Bar Exam: The Riverwest Filling Station is a Gas
Bar Exam

The Riverwest Filling Station is a Gas

A Riverwest gem with a long and storied past.

City Hall: Plan Will Build City’s Largest Solar Array
City Hall

Plan Will Build City’s Largest Solar Array

City, We Energies partner on eight-acre solar farm, enough electricity to power 400 homes.

City Hall: Climate Task Force Readying Report
City Hall

Climate Task Force Readying Report

Officials discuss joint city-county report on environmental strategies due in March.

City Hall: Council Inches Toward Universal Basic Income
City Hall

Council Inches Toward Universal Basic Income

Proposal will create a framework, needs philanthropic support.

Murphy’s Law: Did Chief Morales Target His FPC Boss?
Murphy’s Law

Did Chief Morales Target His FPC Boss?

Common Council concerned. “Borderline frightening” use of police power, Bauman charges.

Plats and Parcels: Lakefront Tower Loses A Few Floors
Plats and Parcels

Lakefront Tower Loses A Few Floors

Plus: Northridge Mall trial starts, Foxconn bailing on project could cause up to $120 million state bailout.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Second New East Side Home Revealed
Eyes on Milwaukee

Second New East Side Home Revealed

Designs submitted for second new home in North Point Historic District.

City Hall: Council, Aldrete Again Spar Over FPC
City Hall

Council, Aldrete Again Spar Over FPC

Shouting, an open letter, highly-sensitive leak. The mess at Fire & Police Commission continues.

City Hall: Meet the Candidates for City Offices
City Hall

Meet the Candidates for City Offices

Packed spring election features 46 candidates for 19 city offices.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Deconstruction Delayed Through 2020
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Deconstruction Delayed Through 2020

Officials hope to build contractor capacity in program focused on jobs and environment.

City Hall: Officials Advance $500/Month Basic Income Plan
City Hall

Officials Advance $500/Month Basic Income Plan

Are you low-income and want $500 per month? The city has a pilot plan, almost.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Is There A Plan To Prevent New Tent City?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Is There A Plan To Prevent New Tent City?

City officials worry. If no plan, should state build a campground under highway?

Transportation: Delivery Tax Isn’t Legal, Says City Attorney
Transportation

Delivery Tax Isn’t Legal, Says City Attorney

But Lena Taylor disagrees. Is 60 cent fee on food deliveries a tax or a fee?

City Hall: Officer Ray Confirmed Without Debate
City Hall

Officer Ray Confirmed Without Debate

Former MPD officer is newest member of troubled Fire and Police Commission.

City Hall: Stunned Council Grills FPC Director
City Hall

Stunned Council Grills FPC Director

"It all doesn't add up" two aldermen say, while Hamilton says questions were answered.

City Hall: Council Bans Most Plastic Straws
City Hall

Council Bans Most Plastic Straws

Use by bars and restaurants prohibited unless customers request them.

City Hall: Council Overrides Every Barrett Veto
City Hall

Council Overrides Every Barrett Veto

Without debate Common Council overrides mayor, keeps 59 amendments to budget

City Hall: Barrett Issues 8 Budget Vetoes
City Hall

Barrett Issues 8 Budget Vetoes

Vetoes attack borrowing, garbage truck replacement, blight elimination.

Two Efforts Target Climate Change

Two Efforts Target Climate Change

State and county task forces are separate but overlapping efforts responding to crisis.

City Hall: Proposal Aims To Eliminate Plastic Straws
City Hall

Proposal Aims To Eliminate Plastic Straws

Would prevent restaurants from providing straws, unless customers request them.

City Hall: Aldermen Push Gender Neutral Bathrooms
City Hall

Aldermen Push Gender Neutral Bathrooms

Council members working with Equal Rights Commission to advance inclusive policy.

City Hall: Council Cuts Police, Adopts $1.6 Billion Budget
City Hall

Council Cuts Police, Adopts $1.6 Billion Budget

Council wrestles with huge fiscal challenges due to rising police costs, declining state aid.

Climate and Economic Equity Taskforce Co-chairs Announce Members
Press Release

Climate and Economic Equity Taskforce Co-chairs Announce Members

News Release from Alderman Nik Kovac

Climate and Economic Equity Taskforce Co-chairs Announce Members, Set First Meeting for Nov. 11
Press Release

Climate and Economic Equity Taskforce Co-chairs Announce Members, Set First Meeting for Nov. 11

"I'm confident that my colleagues on the taskforce share my sense of enthusiasm and urgency, and I know we're all eager to roll up our sleeves and get to work."

Transportation: Street Safety Funding Passes Committee
Transportation

Street Safety Funding Passes Committee

DPW would get $1.2 million in new, dedicated funding for complete streets.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Okays St. Augustine’s $30 Million Plan
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Okays St. Augustine’s $30 Million Plan

One of city's fastest-growing schools plans substantial expansion.

Residents Rally for Clean Drinking Water

Residents Rally for Clean Drinking Water

Coalition On Lead Emergency pushes for action, some city officials pledge to help.

City Hall: Proposal Gives Residents a Basic Income
City Hall

Proposal Gives Residents a Basic Income

Lewis, Kovac back "Universal Basic Income" for 50 poorer families of $500 per month.

City Hall: Indigenous Peoples’ Day Now A Holiday
City Hall

Indigenous Peoples’ Day Now A Holiday

Mayor signs legislation into law making it a holiday for city of Milwaukee.

Transportation: Committee Approves City BRT Agreement
Transportation

Committee Approves City BRT Agreement

City DPW would be reimbursed by Milwaukee County for design and infrastructure costs.

City Hall: Council Debates Indigenous Peoples’ Day
City Hall

Council Debates Indigenous Peoples’ Day

"Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be forced to defend the Catholic Church," Donovan thundered.

Plats and Parcels: NBA Player Plans Downtown Apartments
Plats and Parcels

NBA Player Plans Downtown Apartments

Big week in real estate with Couture taxes, Strauss, Marchese, Airbnb, Scott Lurie and more making headlines.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Deconstruction Program Expected to Restart Next Week
Eyes on Milwaukee

Deconstruction Program Expected to Restart Next Week

Contractor will start after months of delays.

City Hall: Is The City Ready to Plow Snow?
City Hall

Is The City Ready to Plow Snow?

City has 28,405 tons of salt and 414 pieces of equipment ready to clear 1,472 miles of city streets.

Transportation: Couture Streetcar Extension Decision Pushed to June 2020
Transportation

Couture Streetcar Extension Decision Pushed to June 2020

"We look like complete fools," says Bauman as Marcoux expresses confidence in project.

Friday Photos: The East Sider Awaits
Friday Photos

The East Sider Awaits

New apartment building near UWM is nearly finished.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Brady Street Building Being Rehabbed, Expanded
Eyes on Milwaukee

Brady Street Building Being Rehabbed, Expanded

Former home of Waterford Wine could become retail store, cafe or restaurant.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Master Lock Plan Closes City Streets
Eyes on Milwaukee

Master Lock Plan Closes City Streets

Company seeks city approval to close portions of two streets on its Center St. campus.

City Hall: Should City Pay a Tire Bounty?
City Hall

Should City Pay a Tire Bounty?

Aldermen advocate for city to pay "scrappers" to collect discarded tires. DPW staff resist.

City Hall: Should Milwaukee Ban Plastic Straws?
City Hall

Should Milwaukee Ban Plastic Straws?

Some alderman seem in favor. It's one of the few single-use plastics the city could ban.

City Hall: City Recycled More in 2018
City Hall

City Recycled More in 2018

Residents recycled 25,451 tons in 2018, but don't throw plastic bags in the bins.

What’s It Worth?: Clock Tower Building Worth $3.5 Million
What’s It Worth?

Clock Tower Building Worth $3.5 Million

A 1920s east side classic. Will it be worth more when that clock is fixed?

What’s It Worth?: What Is An 1886 Firehouse Worth?
What’s It Worth?

What Is An 1886 Firehouse Worth?

Colectivo owner Lincoln Fowler and his wife Lilith paid $450,000, will make it their home.

City Hall: Council Pushes Plan for $15/Hour Downtown Jobs
City Hall

Council Pushes Plan for $15/Hour Downtown Jobs

Would urge downtown businesses, developers to increase wages, worker protections.

City Hall: Aldermen Blast City’s Call Center
City Hall

Aldermen Blast City’s Call Center

Should you call 286-City to report a pothole? Don't bother, some aldermen say.

Transportation: Committee Okays City Pedestrian Plan
Transportation

Committee Okays City Pedestrian Plan

98 pages with 100 actions suggested. But will any of it be funded?

Eyes on Milwaukee: Komatsu Unveils Harbor District Designs
Eyes on Milwaukee

Komatsu Unveils Harbor District Designs

See what the "largest urban manufacturing proposal in the United States" will look like.

Eyes on Milwaukee: HPC Board Puts Modern Homes on Hold
Eyes on Milwaukee

HPC Board Puts Modern Homes on Hold

New homes proposed for East Side historic district don't meet "any of the guidelines."

City Hall: Council Passes New Tow Truck Rules
City Hall

Council Passes New Tow Truck Rules

Private operators must must file forms regarding any "drops". Next could be report cards.

Eyes on Milwaukee: ZND Panel Okays “Condo Canyon” Project
Eyes on Milwaukee

ZND Panel Okays “Condo Canyon” Project

Apartment complex with "fingers" design approved for site near Water Street canyon.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Committee Approves 32-Story Tower
Eyes on Milwaukee

Committee Approves 32-Story Tower

But first, council members give tower its most thorough public vetting to date.

Transportation: City Advancing Riverwest Bike Boulevards
Transportation

City Advancing Riverwest Bike Boulevards

Open house in Riverwest to discuss proposal planned for July 11th.

Transportation: Is the City Ready for Scooters?
Transportation

Is the City Ready for Scooters?

Council debates pilot program allowing scooters. "We're all scared to death," Borkowski says.

Bar Exam: Von Trier Revisited
Bar Exam

Von Trier Revisited

East Side bar under new ownership, but maintains classic appeal.

City Hall: City to Study More Recycling Pickups
City Hall

City to Study More Recycling Pickups

Pickups could increase from every three to every two weeks; other changes discussed.

Bar Exam: Hacienda Beer Company A Radical Redo
Bar Exam

Hacienda Beer Company A Radical Redo

East Side changing: G-Daddy's BBC college bar now upscale taproom with craft beers, chic food.

Friday Photos: Meet The East Sider
Friday Photos

Meet The East Sider

Distinctive shape of new apartment building near UWM emerges.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Commission Okays Water St. Apartment Project
Eyes on Milwaukee

Commission Okays Water St. Apartment Project

Proposed 76-unit building, clad in terracotta, gets its first approval.

City Hall: City Will Raise Its Water Rates
City Hall

City Will Raise Its Water Rates

Average customers in city and suburbs served directly will see their bills rise $7 per year.

Resolution to adopt a Green Infrastructure Plan for the City of Milwaukee advances to the Common Council
Press Release

Resolution to adopt a Green Infrastructure Plan for the City of Milwaukee advances to the Common Council

“The Green Infrastructure Plan will reduce the amount of rainwater that flows into the sewerage system following a wet-weather event.”

City Hall: City Is Repaving More Streets
City Hall

City Is Repaving More Streets

But is focus on streets just creating a backlog of alleys and sidewalks needing work?

Transportation: Mayor, Aldermen Celebrate Wisconsin Bike Week
Transportation

Mayor, Aldermen Celebrate Wisconsin Bike Week

Elected officials lead rides to Downtown to tout city's improving cycling infrastructure.

Council approves resolution supporting creation of federal Green New Deal legislation
Press Release

Council approves resolution supporting creation of federal Green New Deal legislation

News release by Alderman Nik Kovac and Cavalier Johnson

City Hall: Council Rejects Barrett’s FPC Appointee
City Hall

Council Rejects Barrett’s FPC Appointee

Fire and Police Commission appointee gives "petulant" presentation, rejected by council.

City Hall: Oh, Those Dreaded Plastic Bags
City Hall

Oh, Those Dreaded Plastic Bags

Council debates what to do with bags that clog up recycling process.

Eyes on Milwaukee: A Town Square for Downtown Milwaukee
Eyes on Milwaukee

A Town Square for Downtown Milwaukee

City proposes Vel R. Phillips Plaza along W. Wisconsin Ave. with cafe and streetcar stop.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Ogden Files for Lower East Side Zoning Change
Eyes on Milwaukee

Ogden Files for Lower East Side Zoning Change

Company advancing with terracotta-clad, 76-unit apartment complex on N. Water St.

Transportation: City a Leader in Complete Streets Policy
Transportation

City a Leader in Complete Streets Policy

Milwaukee's Complete Streets policy ranks third nationally in report, but yet to be tested.

Mayor Barrett: Secure Our Neighborhoods, Fix Our Streets, and Enough with Your Damned Streetcar
Press Release

Mayor Barrett: Secure Our Neighborhoods, Fix Our Streets, and Enough with Your Damned Streetcar

Aldermen urge citizens to voice their opposition to the streetcar by saying “Enough is Enough!’ Joint statement from Alderman Bob Donovan and Alderman Mark A. Borkowski May 6, 2019

Transportation: 11 Key Facts About Streetcar Extensions
Transportation

11 Key Facts About Streetcar Extensions

Love the idea? Hate it? Either way we have all the details.

Transportation: Mayor Wants Three Streetcar Extensions
Transportation

Mayor Wants Three Streetcar Extensions

Will request engineering study of extensions to Bronzeville and Walker's Point

State Behind The Times on Pot Laws?

State Behind The Times on Pot Laws?

Most states have less severe penalties. And black state residents more likely to be arrested.

Transportation: Milwaukeeans Getting Worse at Driving
Transportation

Milwaukeeans Getting Worse at Driving

Crashes up 51% since 2009. Is cell phone use by drivers helping drive numbers?

City Hall: The Cold War With We Energies
City Hall

The Cold War With We Energies

Bauman, other aldermen believe city is charging too little for utility's use of city land.

City Hall: Meet the City’s Pothole Patrol
City Hall

Meet the City’s Pothole Patrol

Turns out those frequently maligned parking checkers do more than issue tickets.

City Hall: Who Wants to Design A New City Flag?
City Hall

Who Wants to Design A New City Flag?

Common Council starting process intended to end flag debate.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Neighbors Okay Water St. Project Plan
Eyes on Milwaukee

Neighbors Okay Water St. Project Plan

Odgen's six-floor, 76 unit apartment complex along Jackson gets support.

Trump Backer Running for Donovan’s Seat

Trump Backer Running for Donovan’s Seat

Pentecostal church pastor Eduardo Loera latest to run for south side district where Ald. Donovan retiring.

Milwaukee Alders rally behind JoCasta Zamarripa in race to be next 8th District Alderwoman
Press Release

Milwaukee Alders rally behind JoCasta Zamarripa in race to be next 8th District Alderwoman

"I’m honored to have the support of so many strong leaders in the City of Milwaukee."

Eyes on Milwaukee: 76-Unit Apartment Complex for Jackson at Water
Eyes on Milwaukee

76-Unit Apartment Complex for Jackson at Water

Ogden Multifamily Partners hopes to build five-story building at north end of Water Street.

Eyes on Milwaukee: More Parking, Traffic Flow for East Side
Eyes on Milwaukee

More Parking, Traffic Flow for East Side

Arlington Place will become two-way street between Brady and Warren.

What’s It Worth?: Nomad World Pub Worth $1.75 Million
What’s It Worth?

Nomad World Pub Worth $1.75 Million

The sales price is $1 million more than its assessed value.

City Hall: City Approves DNC Contract
City Hall

City Approves DNC Contract

City expects $50 million from federal government to pay for security.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Any City Progress on Affordable Housing?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Any City Progress on Affordable Housing?

Has Barrett's 10,000 homes initiative had an impact? Council members give mixed grades

Back in the News: 1870s Office Building Now a Mansion
Back in the News

1870s Office Building Now a Mansion

The revival of a unique, 5-story, 1876 mansion on Prospect by architect James Douglas.

City Hall: Food Trucks Banned on W. National Ave.
City Hall

Food Trucks Banned on W. National Ave.

Council approves resolution to ban food trucks from S. Layton Blvd. west to city limits.

City Hall: Council Will Now Make Flag Decision
City Hall

Council Will Now Make Flag Decision

Will city ever have new flag? Council punted issue to arts board and board punted it back.

City Hall: City Struggles to Keep Up Snow Plowing
City Hall

City Struggles to Keep Up Snow Plowing

Problems include aging equipment, staff shortages and inexperienced operators.

City Hall: Three City Libraries Will Get Solar
City Hall

Three City Libraries Will Get Solar

But city wants to install five times more solar power and faces We Energies opposition.

Joint statement on the death of a Department of Public Works worker
Press Release

Joint statement on the death of a Department of Public Works worker

From Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderman Robert Donovan, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman Jóse G. Pérez, Alderman Terry L. Witkowski, Alderman Tony Zielinski, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Joint statement on fallen Milwaukee Police Officer
Press Release

Joint statement on fallen Milwaukee Police Officer

From Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Jóse G. Pérez, Alderman Robert Donovan, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Terry L. Witkowski, Alderman Cavalier Johnson and Alderman Mark A. Borkowski

City and We Energies In Solar Standoff

City and We Energies In Solar Standoff

Utility won’t allow city to work with third party solar provider, aldermen blast We Energies.

City Hall: Karen Dettmer Will Lead Water Works
City Hall

Karen Dettmer Will Lead Water Works

Committee puts veteran engineer through the ringer before endorsing her appointment.

Friday Photos: 2900 Apartments Starts to Rise
Friday Photos

2900 Apartments Starts to Rise

New 55-unit apartment building at Oakland and Locust will be five floors high.

Eyes on Milwaukee: 7 Modern Townhomes Off Brady Planned
Eyes on Milwaukee

7 Modern Townhomes Off Brady Planned

Developer Jason Pietsch plans pretty pricey condos along Pulaski Park.

Bar Exam: The Tracks Has Always Been a Tavern
Bar Exam

The Tracks Has Always Been a Tavern

Since building erected in 1906. With same owner since 1970, With volleyball for decades.

Plats and Parcels: New Downtown Apartment Building
Plats and Parcels

New Downtown Apartment Building

Is the second time the charm for a long vacant downtown site?

City-wide School Board Candidate Bob Peterson announces endorsement from 23 elected officials
Press Release

City-wide School Board Candidate Bob Peterson announces endorsement from 23 elected officials

The full list of elected officials to have endorsed Bob Peterson for MPS school board represents a broad span of Milwaukee’s neighborhoods.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Construction Moving Along at St. Rita Square
Eyes on Milwaukee

Construction Moving Along at St. Rita Square

Did DCD and alderman save the project from being value engineered?

Friday Photos: The Easton Rises
Friday Photos

The Easton Rises

Apartment building being constructed on site between Ogden and Brady.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Okays Largest Urban Manufacturing Deal in U.S.
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Okays Largest Urban Manufacturing Deal in U.S.

West Milwaukee company will move to city, but will it create any new jobs?

Bar Exam: Izzy Hops Is Long on Beer, History
Bar Exam

Izzy Hops Is Long on Beer, History

Former Rascals, Murray Tap, in 121-year old building, embraces new East Side.

Bar Exam: Henry’s Is Anything But a Bistro
Bar Exam

Henry’s Is Anything But a Bistro

More low-down bar than East Side chic, but in a century-old building.

City Beat: Episode 001
City Beat

Episode 001

Guests Bruce Murphy and Alderman Nik Kovac join Jeramey Jannene to talk city issues.

City Hall: Council Slaps Down Mayor’s Vetoes
City Hall

Council Slaps Down Mayor’s Vetoes

Legislative body rejects all five vetoes by Mayor Tom Barrett.

City Hall: 10 Curious Details in City’s 2019 Budget
City Hall

10 Curious Details in City’s 2019 Budget

A city store? No more alley repairs? Cutting tree trimming? The $1.5 billion budget has it all.

City Hall: Arts Board Wants New City Flag Search
City Hall

Arts Board Wants New City Flag Search

Process to select popular People's Flag not inclusive enough, board decides, so start over.

City Hall: Council Adopts 2019 City Budget
City Hall

Council Adopts 2019 City Budget

Average homeowner will see $51.88 increase, no change in total fire and police officers.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Streetcar Opens to Public
Eyes on Milwaukee

Streetcar Opens to Public

"This is your assignment: ride the streetcar," says Mayor Barrett.

City Hall: Barrett Signs Complete Streets Policy
City Hall

Barrett Signs Complete Streets Policy

Mayor, city officials and activists gather to celebrate new legislation.

New Bar and Restaurant for East Side

New Bar and Restaurant for East Side

Merge, a new establishment focusing on lighter snack items, plans November opening.

City Hall: Council Passes Complete Streets Policy
City Hall

Council Passes Complete Streets Policy

Streets for all, not just cars, is now the law of the land.

City Hall: How Long Will Flag Debate Last?
City Hall

How Long Will Flag Debate Last?

Arts Board might not have decision on the city flag by the end of 2018.

City Hall: Committee Okays Complete Streets Policy
City Hall

Committee Okays Complete Streets Policy

Proposal on street design places pedestrians and cyclists on same level as motorists

Friday Photos: Hammes HQ Nears Completion
Friday Photos

Hammes HQ Nears Completion

Brookfield firm will move Downtown before the end of the year.

Dining: East Side Food Hall Opening in November
Dining

East Side Food Hall Opening in November

October opening for "unique" food hall in former Rosati's on Farwell Ave. moved back.

City Hall: Council Okays Market-Based Parking Fees
City Hall

Council Okays Market-Based Parking Fees

But Tony Zielinski adamantly opposes it, joined by four other council members.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Three New “Historic” Homes For East Side
Eyes on Milwaukee

Three New “Historic” Homes For East Side

City committee designates vacant land as historic, allows three new homes near Water Tower.

Bar Exam: Up-Down Milwaukee Is Arcade Heaven
Bar Exam

Up-Down Milwaukee Is Arcade Heaven

Brady St. bar has 60 vintage arcade games, 59 beers on tap, great views and loud vibe.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Work Starts on 2900 Apartments
Eyes on Milwaukee

Work Starts on 2900 Apartments

Building with Cousins on Oakland and Locust goes down; five story complex going up.

House Confidential: Developer Blair Williams’ Federal-Style Manse
House Confidential

Developer Blair Williams’ Federal-Style Manse

Lovely $583,000 East Side home built by architect Armand Koch in 1915 for Ogden family.

Plats and Parcels: Brady Street Project Cancelled
Plats and Parcels

Brady Street Project Cancelled

City marketing vacant lot on Lower East Side main street for $105,000.

Bring On the Dockless Bicycles!

Bring On the Dockless Bicycles!

City officials announce they will accept proposals for dockless bikeshare.

Plenty of Horne: Meeting Addresses Swing Park Homicides
Plenty of Horne

Meeting Addresses Swing Park Homicides

Mayor, police, city officials, residents have a solution-oriented meeting short on anger.

Bar Exam: Riverwest’s Club 99 Has 116-Year History
Bar Exam

Riverwest’s Club 99 Has 116-Year History

Old Miller tied house has had many different owners, now on Riverwest 24 course.

Eyes on Milwaukee: MillerCoors Razes Historic Gettelman Building
Eyes on Milwaukee

MillerCoors Razes Historic Gettelman Building

Brewery's demolition part of compromise to add parking, preserve Gettleman house.

House Confidential: A Home Built for Entertaining
House Confidential

A Home Built for Entertaining

Owners of this riverfront home hold their share of Democratic fundraisers.

Bar Exam: Nomad’s Worldly Beer Garden
Bar Exam

Nomad’s Worldly Beer Garden

The Nomad is a Brady Street fixture and its patio has become a destination in its own right.

Friday Photos: New Lower East Side Apartments
Friday Photos

New Lower East Side Apartments

Klein Development developing 96-unit building south of E. Brady St.

Joint Statement on the death of Officer Michael Michalski
Press Release

Joint Statement on the death of Officer Michael Michalski

From Alderman Terry Witkowski, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Jóse G. Pérez, Alderman Nicholas Kovac, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Tony Zielinski, Alderman Bob Donovan, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, and Alderman Robert Bauman

Plats and Parcels:  Mandel’s $130 Million Harbor Development
Plats and Parcels

Mandel’s $130 Million Harbor Development

Plus: more manufacturing in West Allis.

House Confidential: The House of Spider George
House Confidential

The House of Spider George

He's the entertainment director of Festa Italiana, and married to a Mafia don's daughter.

City Hall: Council Delays Flag Decision
City Hall

Council Delays Flag Decision

Delegates Milwaukee Arts Board to decide if new flag needed and how to proceed.

Eyes on Milwaukee: New Homes Planned for East Side
Eyes on Milwaukee

New Homes Planned for East Side

Sticky details delay developer's plan for three homes near Columbia St. Mary's.

City Hall: Zielinski Ramps Up Mayoral Campaign
City Hall

Zielinski Ramps Up Mayoral Campaign

"I want to run against Barrett," alderman says, laying out issues he will use against mayor.

The Problems with Deconstruction

The Problems with Deconstruction

New city program is promising, but also faces obstacles.

First Buildings Deconstructed Under New Law

First Buildings Deconstructed Under New Law

But Ald. Bauman fears high bids from companies may make law impractical.

House Confidential: The House of City Insiders
House Confidential

The House of City Insiders

Former city tax assessor Julie Penman and streetcar consultant Jeff Bentoff live here.

Downer Classic bike races set for Saturday, June 30
Press Release

Downer Classic bike races set for Saturday, June 30

Important notification from Alderman Nik Kovac

Friday Photos: Milwaukee’s First Protected Bike Lanes
Friday Photos

Milwaukee’s First Protected Bike Lanes

Two bridges receive special infrastructure for bicyclists.

Bar Exam: Veggas Pub Is a Riverwest Survivor
Bar Exam

Veggas Pub Is a Riverwest Survivor

Most taverns in area long gone; this 19th century-era bar is still unique.

City Hall: Zielinski Out as Licenses Committee Chair
City Hall

Zielinski Out as Licenses Committee Chair

Did he lose the powerful post because he's running for mayor?

Photo Gallery: Urban Milwaukee Celebrates 10th Birthday
Photo Gallery

Urban Milwaukee Celebrates 10th Birthday

Crowd packs Pabst Brewery & Taproom for publication's 10th anniversary.

City Hall: Adam Schlicht Confirmed as Port Director
City Hall

Adam Schlicht Confirmed as Port Director

New director envisions growing the port through international marketing, diversification.

What Would Jane Jacobs Do?

What Would Jane Jacobs Do?

10 takeaways from a visiting expert on the legendary urbanist.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Rebuilding a Vibrant Bronzeville
Eyes on Milwaukee

Rebuilding a Vibrant Bronzeville

Actor Danny Glover and many local notables celebrate new development anchored by Black Holocaust Museum.

Friday Photos: Copper Dome Emerges Downtown
Friday Photos

Copper Dome Emerges Downtown

Hammes HQ sports Jeffersonian-style design.

City Hall: Council Moves to Confirm New Port Director
City Hall

Council Moves to Confirm New Port Director

Adam Schlicht has dreams of growing the port through international marketing.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Celebrates Bike to Work Week
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Celebrates Bike to Work Week

Complete Streets policy set to be introduced.

House Confidential: Breast Cancer Showhouse for a Cure 2018
House Confidential

Breast Cancer Showhouse for a Cure 2018

This East Side classic was designed by one of Milwaukee's most popular early architects of grand homes.

Friday Photos: The Contour on Prospect Ave.
Friday Photos

The Contour on Prospect Ave.

Lower East Side apartment project is changing Prospect Avenue.

Wisconsin Bike Week June 2nd-9th
Press Release

Wisconsin Bike Week June 2nd-9th

Celebrate Wisconsin Biking and Have FUN on Your Bike

Eyes on Milwaukee: Bucks Beat Hiring Goals on Arena
Eyes on Milwaukee

Bucks Beat Hiring Goals on Arena

Arena project has created at least 800 jobs for under-employed city residents.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Is Bucks Live Block Good Urbanism?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Is Bucks Live Block Good Urbanism?

Council committee debates merits of new building for Old World Third St., gateway to arena.

House Confidential: Classic Terrace Ave. Home on NARI Tour
House Confidential

Classic Terrace Ave. Home on NARI Tour

And in the basement: Authentic Irish Pub with Poker Room and streetscape of Dublin Streets.

Common Council approves full lead hazard review for city-owned properties
Press Release

Common Council approves full lead hazard review for city-owned properties

News release from Alderman Jose G. Perez and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

City Hall: City Creates Vel Phillips Ave., Plans Statue
City Hall

City Creates Vel Phillips Ave., Plans Statue

N. 4th St. to become Vel R. Phillips Ave.; where will statue go?

Friday Photos: The Urbanite Rises
Friday Photos

The Urbanite Rises

Farwell Ave. high rise adds 153 residences to Lower East Side.

Alderman Kovac invites 3rd District residents to Milwaukee Fire Department Community Relations Open House
Press Release

Alderman Kovac invites 3rd District residents to Milwaukee Fire Department Community Relations Open House

The free event will take place Saturday, May 5th.

House Confidential: Riverwest Octagon House Cuts Corners
House Confidential

Riverwest Octagon House Cuts Corners

Who built it, when and where? Many mysteries surrounding rare home built in 1850s.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Committee Okays Symphony Plan for Grand Theatre
Eyes on Milwaukee

Committee Okays Symphony Plan for Grand Theatre

Musical chairs-style land swap will clear way for movie theater's expansion for MSO.

Eyes on Milwaukee: V. Marchese Adding 50 to 100 Jobs
Eyes on Milwaukee

V. Marchese Adding 50 to 100 Jobs

City committee's land sale approval facilitates company's expansion in Walker's Point.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Downtown Bridges Cause Mounting Traffic
Eyes on Milwaukee

Downtown Bridges Cause Mounting Traffic

Bridge openings stop traffic for nearly 4.5 hours on busy days. City mulls policy changes.

City Hall: 4th St. Will Become Vel. R. Phillips Ave.
City Hall

4th St. Will Become Vel. R. Phillips Ave.

Major downtown street to be renamed for Milwaukee leader and civil rights pioneer.

Bar Exam: Unique New Place for Craft Beers
Bar Exam

Unique New Place for Craft Beers

Eagle Park Brewing Co. is now in the century-old former space of The Hamilton. It is solid.

Ascension announces pause to service downsizing at St. Joseph
Press Release

Ascension announces pause to service downsizing at St. Joseph

Press release from Alders Khalif J. Rainey, Michael Murphy and Bob Donovan

City Hall: The Remarkable Life of Vel Phillips
City Hall

The Remarkable Life of Vel Phillips

"A giant in our state" dies at 94; city to honor political pioneer with annual award.

Council approves Ascension service retention measure
Press Release

Council approves Ascension service retention measure

"Citizens across our city rely on Ascension facilities for care..."

Now Serving: More Bay View Pizza, Tosa Sushi
Now Serving

More Bay View Pizza, Tosa Sushi

Plus: Stone Creek on Downer, vegan restaurant on Farwell, Blue's Egg in Shorewood.

Riverwest Bike Boulevard Gets Thumbs Up

Riverwest Bike Boulevard Gets Thumbs Up

Most attending public meeting support slowing traffic on N. Fratney and E. Wright streets.

City Hall: Milwaukee Bans Conversion Therapy
City Hall

Milwaukee Bans Conversion Therapy

Controversial therapy tries to transform LGBT teens into heterosexuals.

Now Serving: Your New Recreation Destination
Now Serving

Your New Recreation Destination

East North Ave. may become THE place for recreational bars and cafes.

Committee votes “yes” on conversion therapy ban
Press Release

Committee votes “yes” on conversion therapy ban

Statement of Alderman Cavalier “Chevy” Johnson - March 8, 2018

House Confidential: A James Douglas Masterpiece
House Confidential

A James Douglas Masterpiece

Wonderful Prospect Ave. mansion built in 1890 by one of city's best architects.

City Hall: City Will Contest Foxconn Power Deal
City Hall

City Will Contest Foxconn Power Deal

City Attorney will contest $117 million Foxconn subsidy charged to We Energies customers.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Barrett Plan Builds 10,000 Affordable Homes
Eyes on Milwaukee

Barrett Plan Builds 10,000 Affordable Homes

Ambitious plan is centerpiece of mayor's State-of-the-City speech. Will council support it?

Eyes on Milwaukee: Milwaukee’s First Hostel Coming
Eyes on Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s First Hostel Coming

Cream City Hostel will open on border of Riverwest and Harambee.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Art Gallery and Studio Space Coming to Harambee
Eyes on Milwaukee

Art Gallery and Studio Space Coming to Harambee

City-owned building will be redeveloped on N. Port Washington Ave.

Bar Exam: What Makes Hooligan’s a Landmark
Bar Exam

What Makes Hooligan’s a Landmark

Long colorful history includes days as a political campaign headquarters.

Plats and Parcels: A Hostel for Riverwest
Plats and Parcels

A Hostel for Riverwest

And $79 million in New Markets Tax Credits to three community development entities.

Council Members Congratulate Interim Police Chief on Appointment
Press Release

Council Members Congratulate Interim Police Chief on Appointment

We stand ready to work with him to move forward as a united community for the good of all residents.

City Hall: No Strip Club for Riverwest
City Hall

No Strip Club for Riverwest

Owners of Tha Circle cite miscommunication, withdraw application.

Council members respond to Chief Flynn’s exit tour of local media
Press Release

Council members respond to Chief Flynn’s exit tour of local media

Jointly signed response to Chief Flynn's comments from Aldermen Kovac, Perez and Stamper

Eyes on Milwaukee: St. Rita Square Development Advances
Eyes on Milwaukee

St. Rita Square Development Advances

Lower East Side project boasts new church, two six-story buildings, 118 senior apartments.

House Confidential: The House of Fraud
House Confidential

The House of Fraud

Owner of Downer Woods home has a dozen different names and is charged with fraud.

Friday Photos: Tower Rises Through the Snow
Friday Photos

Tower Rises Through the Snow

Friday's snowstorm didn't stop work on new east-side high rise.

Plenty of Horne: Will Historic Home Be Saved?
Plenty of Horne

Will Historic Home Be Saved?

St. Rita's development could destroy 1875 building by architect James Douglas.

Murphy’s Law: Mayor Barrett’s Power in Decline?
Murphy’s Law

Mayor Barrett’s Power in Decline?

Council taking more power, mayor taking a beating.

Eyes on Milwaukee: More Apartments, Retail for Walker’s Point
Eyes on Milwaukee

More Apartments, Retail for Walker’s Point

Wangard development is compromise between city, developer and alderman.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Appoints McManus Interim Health Leader
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Appoints McManus Interim Health Leader

She'll be interim commissioner. Says city's failure to send letters about lead was "deliberate."

Friday Photos: Hammes HQ Takes Shape
Friday Photos

Hammes HQ Takes Shape

Building is a welcome change from a vacant lot.

“Fire on Ice” Event Saturday at Black Cat Alley
Press Release

“Fire on Ice” Event Saturday at Black Cat Alley

Artists Todd Mrozinski and Renee Bebeau will paint images of flames on a four-foot-wide slab of ice as a live performance in Black Cat Alley

Eyes on Milwaukee: New Building for Bronzeville
Eyes on Milwaukee

New Building for Bronzeville

Apartments and medical clinic coming to N. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Huge Project for 27th and Wisconsin?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Huge Project for 27th and Wisconsin?

Near West Side Partners buying entire block, hypes development, wants free city land.

Friday Photos: The Climbing Contour
Friday Photos

The Climbing Contour

Lower East Side apartment building is redefining N. Prospect Ave.

Eyes on Milwaukee: $750 Million to Replace Lead Pipes
Eyes on Milwaukee

$750 Million to Replace Lead Pipes

Solutions to city's lead laterals expensive and not simple, council members find.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Wants Downtown Parking Security
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Wants Downtown Parking Security

40% of downtown crimes are vehicle break-ins. Council demands safety measures.

Council set to act on Health Department crisis
Press Release

Council set to act on Health Department crisis

Joint statement from the Milwaukee Common Council

Common Council Statement on Flynn Retirement
Press Release

Common Council Statement on Flynn Retirement

Statement from the Common Council - January 8th, 2018

Eyes on Milwaukee: City May Contest Foxconn Electricity Deal
Eyes on Milwaukee

City May Contest Foxconn Electricity Deal

Bauman, Kovac call We Energies deal "hypocrisy"; City Attorney may challenge it.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Kills Contracts With American Sewer
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Kills Contracts With American Sewer

Council moves to subpoena owner, Donovan walks out of heated discussion about racism.

Eyes on Milwaukee: 10 Most Popular Stories of 2017
Eyes on Milwaukee

10 Most Popular Stories of 2017

A second lakefront tower, a mini-High Line and other favorite stories.

Council approves Libya slave trade condemnation measure
Press Release

Council approves Libya slave trade condemnation measure

Statement of Alderman Khalif J. Rainey - December 19, 2017

Eyes on Milwaukee: Affordable Housing Plan Inches Forward
Eyes on Milwaukee

Affordable Housing Plan Inches Forward

But proposal has been narrowed, will only affect city-financed projects.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Bucks Live Block Eliminates Performance Space
Eyes on Milwaukee

Bucks Live Block Eliminates Performance Space

Revisions also aim to improve urban feel of area.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Donovan Runs Afoul of City Gun Policy
Eyes on Milwaukee

Donovan Runs Afoul of City Gun Policy

Alderman said he knew of city employees carrying firearms, but has failed to report them.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Ban Contractors From Carrying Guns?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Ban Contractors From Carrying Guns?

Proposal causes fierce Common Council debate. Plus: Bauman slams city attorneys.

Back in the News: Council Okays Lawyers for Muni Court
Back in the News

Council Okays Lawyers for Muni Court

Will help defendants who can be jailed when they can’t afford to pay fines.

Bar Exam: Nessun Dorma The 13th Owner of Bar
Bar Exam

Nessun Dorma The 13th Owner of Bar

Bar's history goes back to 1909. Was first to serve Lakefront Brewery beer, in 1987.

Common Council approves Municipal Court legal representation for indigent residents
Press Release

Common Council approves Municipal Court legal representation for indigent residents

The proposed ordinance passed unanimously, allocating up to $45,000 to the non-profit Legal Action of Wisconsin.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Delays Action On Shopping Carts
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Delays Action On Shopping Carts

Stores need more notice, they decide, on ordinance requiring locks on all carts.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Approves Waukesha Water Deal
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Approves Waukesha Water Deal

Only one alderman objects to 40-year, $286 million deal.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Overrides Most of Mayor’s Vetoes
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Overrides Most of Mayor’s Vetoes

Bauman accuses Barrett of false promises, Stamper calls mayor "disingenuous."

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Panel Okays Oak and Loc Complex
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Panel Okays Oak and Loc Complex

Unanimous vote allows controversial East Side apartment project to move forward.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Committee Approves Brady St. Building
Eyes on Milwaukee

Committee Approves Brady St. Building

Zoning committee gives thumbs up to land sale and project with modern design.

House Confidential: Seriously, Another Church That’s Now a Home?
House Confidential

Seriously, Another Church That’s Now a Home?

Yep, this 1927 Italian pentecostal church was finally turned into a one-family home in 2007.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Affordable Housing in Every Major Project?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Affordable Housing in Every Major Project?

Proposal would require it for any project with 20 or more units. Will developers oppose it?

Bar Exam: Vintage, an East Side Bar With Odd History
Bar Exam

Vintage, an East Side Bar With Odd History

Former Morry's space was once auto dealer and then refrigerator showroom.

Friday Photos: Farwell Tower Rises
Friday Photos

Farwell Tower Rises

13-story tower will soon tower over nearby buildings.

Now Serving: New Pizza, Mexican, Pakistani Places
Now Serving

New Pizza, Mexican, Pakistani Places

Plus a new Third Ward diner. And goodbye to The Eastsider bar?

Plenty of Horne: Second Thoughts on Brady Street Building
Plenty of Horne

Second Thoughts on Brady Street Building

At meeting of neighborhood residents some push for a park, but idea doesn't carry the day.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Overrides Mayor on Firing Flynn
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Overrides Mayor on Firing Flynn

10-5 vote means city lobbyist must seek state law giving council power to fire chiefs.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Modern Brady Street Building Approved by Historic Commission
Eyes on Milwaukee

Modern Brady Street Building Approved by Historic Commission

Historic commission staff tried to hold modern building, but commissioners overruled.

Friday Photos: Classical Dome Appears Downtown
Friday Photos

Classical Dome Appears Downtown

Hammes Co.'s new headquarters distinctive design clearly visible.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Theater Group Buying Former Town Hall
Eyes on Milwaukee

Theater Group Buying Former Town Hall

Quasimondo will buy "fabulous" building on N. 35th St. from the city.

House Confidential: Matt Flynn’s East Side Eschweiler
House Confidential

Matt Flynn’s East Side Eschweiler

Gubernatorial candidate has lovely home, lovely location, but won't let assessor in.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Panel Approves Oak and Loc Project
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Panel Approves Oak and Loc Project

5 story, 55-unit apartment building slated for busy corner, but some neighbors oppose it.

House Confidential: How a Church Became a Home
House Confidential

How a Church Became a Home

Adventist church from 1920s on Van Buren is now one of the area's oddest homes.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Votes for Authority to Fire Flynn
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Votes for Authority to Fire Flynn

Requests state law giving them power to fire police and fire chiefs. Mayor promises a veto.

Friday Photos: The Contour
Friday Photos

The Contour

Urban infill for former surface parking lot.

City Proposal Restricts Roadside Memorials

City Proposal Restricts Roadside Memorials

"Some of these turn into unpermitted block parties,” Ald. Johnson says

Plenty of Horne: Neighbors Fight for Brady St. Fire Station
Plenty of Horne

Neighbors Fight for Brady St. Fire Station

But by the end of public meeting held by Ald. Kovac many seemed resigned to its loss.

Bar Exam: Circle A Is Classic Riverwest Tavern
Bar Exam

Circle A Is Classic Riverwest Tavern

Built next to RR track, building a tavern for 120 years, now intimate music venue.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Potawatomi Gives $10 Million To Streetcar
Eyes on Milwaukee

Potawatomi Gives $10 Million To Streetcar

Streetcar will be known as The Hop; Potawatomi gift means no operation costs for city.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Ald. Hamilton’s City Hall Power Play
Eyes on Milwaukee

Ald. Hamilton’s City Hall Power Play

Michael Murphy now finds himself on the outside looking in. Why?

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Passes Gettelman Deal That Will Save One Building, Demolish Others
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Passes Gettelman Deal That Will Save One Building, Demolish Others

MillerCoors will demolish historic brewery structures featured prominently in their marketing.

Statement from Alderman Nik Kovac on the Mayor’s proposed fire department budget
Press Release

Statement from Alderman Nik Kovac on the Mayor’s proposed fire department budget

Engine Company 6 has been on Franklin Place since the 1870s.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Approves East Side High Rise
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Approves East Side High Rise

After over a year of debate, the 27-story building is moving forward.

Miller Compromises on Gettelman Brewery

Miller Compromises on Gettelman Brewery

MillerCoors only wants to demolish half of historic complex after community push back.

New Bay View Park Denied, For Now

New Bay View Park Denied, For Now

“It looks like Mayor Barrett won,” says Ald. Zielinski.

Can Bauman and Kovac Create Jobs?

Can Bauman and Kovac Create Jobs?

Their legislation would require pre-1930 homes to be deconstructed, not demolished

Eyes on Milwaukee: Committee Approves East Side Tower
Eyes on Milwaukee

Committee Approves East Side Tower

Real test will come at the Common Council next week.

Public Meeting Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Public Meeting Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac

Operators have applied for a Class B Tavern License and Food Dealer-Restaurant License for Birch & Butcher

Eyes on Milwaukee: Former MPS School to Become Hotel
Eyes on Milwaukee

Former MPS School to Become Hotel

Ambassador Hotel will turn classrooms into suites.

Public Meeting Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Public Meeting Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac

I will be hosting a community meeting to discuss the updated plan for the proposed development at Oakland & Locust on Monday, September 25 at 6:30 p.m.

House Confidential: A Classic Ferry & Clas Mansion
House Confidential

A Classic Ferry & Clas Mansion

Solid brick (18 inches thick) Tudor Revival, five fireplaces, Hilarious history.

U.S Oil Won’t Ship Oil From Port

U.S Oil Won’t Ship Oil From Port

Signs written agreement and city gives it additional land at no charge.

Bar Exam: Quarters Is Very Old School
Bar Exam

Quarters Is Very Old School

It's the old Riverwest, not the new, for cheap beer and hard rock.

Public Meeting Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Public Meeting Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac

This is a friendly reminder about the 3rd District town hall meeting I have scheduled for 6:00 p.m. September 12th.

House Confidential: A Cottage of Curiosities
House Confidential

A Cottage of Curiosities

How old or who designed it is unknown; and why the peculiar shared wall?

New demolition requirements would promote sustainability and create jobs
Press Release

New demolition requirements would promote sustainability and create jobs

News release from Alderman Robert J. Bauman and Alderman Nik Kovac

Bar Exam: Henry’s Is Anything But a Bistro
Bar Exam

Henry’s Is Anything But a Bistro

More low-down bar than East Side chic, but in a century-old building.

Council hearing set for DOJ draft report on MPD practices
Press Release

Council hearing set for DOJ draft report on MPD practices

News release from Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs and Council President Ashanti Hamilton

Murphy’s Law: The Hit Job on Chief Flynn
Murphy’s Law

The Hit Job on Chief Flynn

Someone leaks incomplete report to Journal Sentinel, which slams chief with it.

Bar Exam: Nomad’s History Goes Back to 1880s
Bar Exam

Nomad’s History Goes Back to 1880s

"Soft-drink parlor" of 1920s now has soccer-themed, international ambience.

Council Supports Restricting Asset Forfeiture

Council Supports Restricting Asset Forfeiture

Would only be allowed for convicted criminals. Milwaukee police opposed change.

Weise Building Gets Temporary Historic Designation

Weise Building Gets Temporary Historic Designation

Developers may save facades of century-old Eschweiler-designed building on Farwell.

House Confidential: The Newest East Side Mansion
House Confidential

The Newest East Side Mansion

Developer Robert Schmidt's clever addition to Back Bay area is new but old.

Bar Exam: The Foundation Goes Back to 1893
Bar Exam

The Foundation Goes Back to 1893

Structure has carried neighborhood taps and now Milwaukee's go-to Tiki bar, Foundation.

Friday Photos: Farwell Tower Emerges
Friday Photos

Farwell Tower Emerges

Core of 13-story apartment building emerges on Lower East Side.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Approves Millions of Dollars of Development
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Approves Millions of Dollars of Development

New construction for Downtown, East Side, Bay View, Menomonee Valley and more.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Bay View Gateway Approved
Eyes on Milwaukee

Bay View Gateway Approved

But not before Zielinski introduced an amendment that some claim would have derailed project.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Still Upset with Chief Flynn
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Still Upset with Chief Flynn

"Damn right hold it again" proclaims alderman Bob Donovan. Council wants more control of chief.

House Confidential: Row House An Architectural Treasure
House Confidential

Row House An Architectural Treasure

1891 Friedmann Row is now condos, one owned by ex-judge James Gramling.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Committee Approves Raft of Projects
Eyes on Milwaukee

Committee Approves Raft of Projects

New construction for Downtown, East Side, Bay View, Menomonee Valley and more.

Eyes on Milwaukee: New Apartments for Oak and Loc
Eyes on Milwaukee

New Apartments for Oak and Loc

Neighbors react to 5-story, 55-unit apartment complex for East Side corner.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Fighting County on Rapid Transit
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Fighting County on Rapid Transit

Council committee puts restrictions on BRT project, charges county acted in bad faith.

Council Approves More Parking for Bikes

Council Approves More Parking for Bikes

Minimum standards for bike parking, bike racks for new and redeveloped buildings.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Members Blast Chief Flynn
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Members Blast Chief Flynn

Demanding more input into Flynn's decision making, they refuse to allocate federal funds.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Stone Creek Approved for Downer Ave.
Eyes on Milwaukee

Stone Creek Approved for Downer Ave.

Historic Preservation Commission approves Stone Creek's new cafe.

Biking: Kids Ask Common Council for Safer Streets
Biking

Kids Ask Common Council for Safer Streets

Big increase in city pedestrians killed while crossing the street.

Friday Photos: An 18th Century Building Made of Steel
Friday Photos

An 18th Century Building Made of Steel

Hammes' new downtown HQ is Jeffersonian-throwback with modern materials.

Bar Exam: Hi-Hat’s History Dates to 1870s
Bar Exam

Hi-Hat’s History Dates to 1870s

Building moved three times; a veritable history of Polish community.

House Confidential: Lincoln Fowler’s Century-Old Home
House Confidential

Lincoln Fowler’s Century-Old Home

Colectivo co-owner has 4.5 bathrooms, 3 fireplaces, and lots of coffee.

Summer Soulstice Music Festival set for Saturday, June 24
Press Release

Summer Soulstice Music Festival set for Saturday, June 24

East Side Summer Soulstice Music Festival - information from Alderman Nik Kovac

House Confidential: The House of Buried Cars
House Confidential

The House of Buried Cars

Riverwest home, with three cars buried in yard, also a geo-cache site.

Common Council to take up Paris Climate Accord measure
Press Release

Common Council to take up Paris Climate Accord measure

News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Nik Kovac

Bar Exam: High Dive’s Equitable Atmosphere
Bar Exam

High Dive’s Equitable Atmosphere

For decades a mom-and-pop tavern; now a hip hangout.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Foreclosed Homes to Become Artist Havens
Eyes on Milwaukee

Foreclosed Homes to Become Artist Havens

City aims to cultivate artistic community instead of demolishing homes.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Arena Apartments Receive Design Approval
Eyes on Milwaukee

Arena Apartments Receive Design Approval

Building with green bays gets approval to be built near Milwaukee Bucks arena.

House Confidential: Sheriff Candidate Lives In Style
House Confidential

Sheriff Candidate Lives In Style

Earnell Lucas, head of MLB security has lovely, $621,000 East Side home.

Friday Photos: Keystone on Brady Nears Completion
Friday Photos

Keystone on Brady Nears Completion

Developer of Brady Street apartment building is already planning another.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Sparks Fly Over Hamilton Settlement
Eyes on Milwaukee

Sparks Fly Over Hamilton Settlement

Council approves $2.3 million settlement, but black aldermen debate Donovan.

House Confidential: Tour a 1902 Eschweiler Mansion
House Confidential

Tour a 1902 Eschweiler Mansion

Breast Cancer 2017 Showcase on Terrace Ave. built by industrialist Clarence Falk.

Now Serving: More Berries, Brunch and Beer
Now Serving

More Berries, Brunch and Beer

New Bay View brunch spot, Walker's Point smoothies bar, Lowlands beers.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Marquette Updating Inflatable Dome
Eyes on Milwaukee

Marquette Updating Inflatable Dome

City panel approves design changes, despite snarking about Minnesota Vikings.

Mayor’s Design Awards All Over Map

Mayor’s Design Awards All Over Map

Big, little, new or renovated, award winners in 13 of 15 aldermanic districts.

Ethanol Shipping Fuels Worries

Ethanol Shipping Fuels Worries

U.S. Oil could also ship crude oil across local waters.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Downtown Strip Club Approved
Eyes on Milwaukee

Downtown Strip Club Approved

Lawsuit settled. "Everyone and their brother" can now open a club.

Finally, Greenwich Park Apartments Opens

Finally, Greenwich Park Apartments Opens

The six-story apartment building has a mix of affordable and market rate units.

Eyes on Milwaukee: How to Make a Pedestrian Friendly City
Eyes on Milwaukee

How to Make a Pedestrian Friendly City

New district-by-district reports on improving city for bicycling and walking.

Eyes on Milwaukee: New Apartment Building For East Side
Eyes on Milwaukee

New Apartment Building For East Side

City committee approves "adventuresome," five-story, 96-unit building.

St. Rita Church to be Razed, Replaced

St. Rita Church to be Razed, Replaced

Plan includes $20 million senior living complex on Lower East Side.

House Confidential: Mark Mone’s French Provincial Manse
House Confidential

Mark Mone’s French Provincial Manse

UWM chancellor's nearly $1 million home boasts a bar and wine cellar.

Wangard Still Can’t Meet City Rules

Wangard Still Can’t Meet City Rules

Subsidized Freshwater Plaza project flunks Residents Preference Program.

Plenty of Horne: Long Empty Store Off Brady Street Sold
Plenty of Horne

Long Empty Store Off Brady Street Sold

1894 building was grocery for decades. Plus: remembering bar owner Bill Lennon.

Bar Exam: Bosco’s Is a Baseball Tavern
Bar Exam

Bosco’s Is a Baseball Tavern

Riverwest bar once was next to gas station owned by Bob Uecker's father.

Officials Celebrate Garfield Development

Officials Celebrate Garfield Development

Groundbreaking for $17 million development and reopened Black Holocaust Museum.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Food Trucks Banned On Brady Street
Eyes on Milwaukee

Food Trucks Banned On Brady Street

Council okays ban request by business improvement district. Mayor must approve.

City Proposal Protects Students

City Proposal Protects Students

Protections target for-profit colleges that leave students with huge debts.

Friday Photos: A Brady Street Trio
Friday Photos

A Brady Street Trio

Qdoba, Glorioso's and an apartment building reshape East Side main street.

House Confidential: A Millionaire’s Neoclassical Mansion
House Confidential

A Millionaire’s Neoclassical Mansion

$1.7 million East Side mansion where Fred Miller grew up is architectural gem.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Approves Arena, Hammes Design Changes
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Approves Arena, Hammes Design Changes

Full speed ahead on arena, office building, more downtown changes.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Felons Can Now Buy City Homes
Eyes on Milwaukee

Felons Can Now Buy City Homes

Council agrees: pay debt to society and you can buy city-owned homes.

Eat Ramen In a Parklet? Yes!

Eat Ramen In a Parklet? Yes!

East Side Ramen restaurant will create parklet, extends ambience to the street.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Hammes HQ Starts Construction
Eyes on Milwaukee

Hammes HQ Starts Construction

Brookfield firm moves downtown next year into classical-styled building.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Bucks Select Apartment Developer
Eyes on Milwaukee

Bucks Select Apartment Developer

Up-and-coming development firm will build 90-unit building

Eyes on Milwaukee: Committee Okays Two Downtown Designs
Eyes on Milwaukee

Committee Okays Two Downtown Designs

Plus: What will the Bucks big announcement on Friday be?

City Could Sell Homes to Felons

City Could Sell Homes to Felons

Committee overturns current ban on sales but proposal needs full council approval.

In Public: Design By Committee
In Public

Design By Committee

Or how Ald. Kovac and the Historic Preservation Commission bedevil architects.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Hammes Revises Controversial Design
Eyes on Milwaukee

Hammes Revises Controversial Design

City panel approves a shorter, stouter building. Will that stop the complaints?

Overwhelming support for our fellow citizens and for our ideals
Press Release

Overwhelming support for our fellow citizens and for our ideals

Milwaukee could be the first city in the U.S. to officially declare its opposition to the travel ban.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Clarke Square Apartments Advance
Eyes on Milwaukee

Clarke Square Apartments Advance

Unique apartment project, high-growth internet company and grocery move forward.

Friday Photos: Bader Rutter’s Riverside Digs
Friday Photos

Bader Rutter’s Riverside Digs

New building, dubbed 1433 Water, will be anchored by marketing firm.

Bar Exam: Jazz Estate’s South Side Chic
Bar Exam

Jazz Estate’s South Side Chic

Bought by Bryant's owner, who added some of its plush, padded style.

Murphy’s Law: Journal Sentinel Shrinks Further
Murphy’s Law

Journal Sentinel Shrinks Further

Plummeting circulation, shrinking news coverage, closing government pressrooms.

Council legislation would ban coal tar sealants in Milwaukee
Press Release

Council legislation would ban coal tar sealants in Milwaukee

The proposed ordinance is expected to be heard by the full Common Council at its Feb. 7 regular meeting at City Hall.

New Development For Villard Avenue

New Development For Villard Avenue

City zoning change will allow four-story, 33-unit apartment complex on 37th and Villard.

House Confidential: The Top 10 Stories of 2016
House Confidential

The Top 10 Stories of 2016

Readers' favorites? Stories about mansions, rich people, sports stars, politicians.

Bar Exam: Bremen Cafe’s Roots Go Back to 1895
Bar Exam

Bremen Cafe’s Roots Go Back to 1895

Building began as bar in 1895 and much is still original in popular Riverwest bar.

Court Watch: Muni Court Data Withheld From Public?
Court Watch

Muni Court Data Withheld From Public?

Judge says data from Warrant Withdrawal Wednesday won’t be publicly released.

Muni Court “Warrant Withdrawal” Draws Thousands

Muni Court “Warrant Withdrawal” Draws Thousands

Special one-day clemency program a success, but treatment of indigent questioned.

Three Plans for New City Library

Three Plans for New City Library

MLK library the latest to have private development that includes a new library.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Nomad World Pub’s Expansion Approved
Eyes on Milwaukee

Nomad World Pub’s Expansion Approved

East Side soccer bar will get one heck of a beer garden under a major expansion plan.

Friday Photos: A Brady Street Two-Fer
Friday Photos

A Brady Street Two-Fer

Two projects are rising from the ground, but will they upset the street's character?

House Confidential: Restaurant Owners Have Lots of Land
House Confidential

Restaurant Owners Have Lots of Land

Modest Astor St. homes of Scott Johnson and Leslie Montemurro sit on one-third acre.

Bar Exam: Shaker’s Cigar Bar is Smoking
Bar Exam

Shaker’s Cigar Bar is Smoking

City's only cigar bar has fine dining and retro-cocktails, classic architectural artifacts.

Bar Exam: Tiny Squirrel Cage Hard to Find
Bar Exam

Tiny Squirrel Cage Hard to Find

Peculiar old Riverwest tavern has 500 square feet, no tap beers, squirrelly atmosphere.

In Public: Hammes Building An Obvious Mistake
In Public

Hammes Building An Obvious Mistake

But is it worth fighting to stop it? Nah. Here’s why.

Bar Exam: Malone’s Bar Has a Bay View Style
Bar Exam

Malone’s Bar Has a Bay View Style

But it's on Brady St. Which shows how much the two neighborhoods have in common.

House Confidential: David Stearns’ Must-See Victorian Home!
House Confidential

David Stearns’ Must-See Victorian Home!

Did the Brewers heady GM crunch the numbers before buying the $600,000 home?

Bar Exam: Eastsider, Scene of the Crime?
Bar Exam

Eastsider, Scene of the Crime?

Tiny historic tavern is where police officer drank with patron he allegedly later raped.

Court Watch: Muni Court Indigents Will Get Lawyers
Court Watch

Muni Court Indigents Will Get Lawyers

Common Council votes 9-6 to approve funding for new program.

Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Thanks Common Council for Their Support to Remove Estabrook Dam
Press Release

Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Thanks Common Council for Their Support to Remove Estabrook Dam

MMSD will be responsible for removing the Dam once it obtains the necessary DNR permits.

City of Milwaukee Votes to Rezone Estabrook Dam Land
Press Release

City of Milwaukee Votes to Rezone Estabrook Dam Land

The vote is an important step in the effort to ultimately remove the Estabrook Dam.

House Confidential: Kane Place Cottage Celebrates the Seasons
House Confidential

Kane Place Cottage Celebrates the Seasons

This well-preserved Polish Flat was built in 1900.

Joint letter to DA John Chisholm
Press Release

Joint letter to DA John Chisholm

Joint letter from members of the Common Council to District Attorney Chisholm

Eyes on Milwaukee: How Bad (or Good) is Hammes HQ Design?
Eyes on Milwaukee

How Bad (or Good) is Hammes HQ Design?

Is it urban or suburban, Jeffersonian or Reaganesque? The debate has already begun.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Hammes Moving Downtown in 2018
Eyes on Milwaukee

Hammes Moving Downtown in 2018

Another company moving from suburbs to Downtown and with unusual architectural style.

House Confidential: Union Activist’s Brady Street Beauty
House Confidential

Union Activist’s Brady Street Beauty

The assessor loved the 1909 home's stained glass and bevelled leaded glass windows.

Friday Photos: East Side Deconstruction
Friday Photos

East Side Deconstruction

Building at 1840 N. Farwell Ave. coming down for 13-floor apartment building.

Plenty of Horne: 10-Story Apartment Building Planned for East Side
Plenty of Horne

10-Story Apartment Building Planned for East Side

140-unit, $35 million apartment project proposed for former Boy's Club site, neighbors react

Mayor Barrett’s 2017 Executive Budget Address
Press Release

Mayor Barrett’s 2017 Executive Budget Address

As Delivered

House Confidential: The Whitnall House
House Confidential

The Whitnall House

One of handful of Pre-Civil War homes in City, was birthplace of the "Father of Milwaukee Parks System."

Plenty of Horne: Black Cat Mural Alley Opens
Plenty of Horne

Black Cat Mural Alley Opens

Sometimes the best public art is hidden from view.

City of Milwaukee Announces An Organics Collection Pilot Program
Press Release

City of Milwaukee Announces An Organics Collection Pilot Program

Residents in selected Milwaukee neighborhoods encouraged to participate

Plenty of Horne: Sage on Prospect Opens
Plenty of Horne

Sage on Prospect Opens

Nearly all 34 units leased in the first month. Building on track for LEED Platinum designation.

Eyes on Milwaukee: The Contour is Coming to Prospect
Eyes on Milwaukee

The Contour is Coming to Prospect

Construction will start in next 60 days on East Side apartment building.

House Confidential: An “Extraordinary” Frank Lloyd Wright
House Confidential

An “Extraordinary” Frank Lloyd Wright

Terrace Ave. home cost Manpower exec Robert Elsner $37,000 in 1955, now worth $750,000.

Friday Photos: Brady Street’s Keystone Apartments
Friday Photos

Brady Street’s Keystone Apartments

Work is underway on new, four-floor, 22-unit complex that will the anchor the busy street.

House Confidential: The Fabulous Gustave Pabst Mansion
House Confidential

The Fabulous Gustave Pabst Mansion

Built in 1907 and later divided into four units, one of its renters is custard king Karl Kopp.

Bar Exam: Club Brady Has 130-Year History
Bar Exam

Club Brady Has 130-Year History

There's been a tavern in odd trapezoidal building since 1885. Blame it on the lake.

Edgar Lin Endorsed by Two Leading Milwaukee Newspapers
Press Release

Edgar Lin Endorsed by Two Leading Milwaukee Newspapers

Leading Challenger in 16th AD Race Continue to Rack up Endorsements

Eyes on Milwaukee: Black Husky Brewing Opens
Eyes on Milwaukee

Black Husky Brewing Opens

See inside the new Riverwest brewery.

Mandela Barnes Announces Key Community Endorsements
Press Release

Mandela Barnes Announces Key Community Endorsements

Key Community Leaders and More Progressive Organizations Endorse New Leadership They Can Count On

Edgar Lin Announces Major Endorsements
Press Release

Edgar Lin Announces Major Endorsements

Local Unions, Community Organizations and Community Leaders Express Support for Leading Challenger in 16th AD Race

Eyes on Milwaukee: Rocky Marcoux Keeps His Job
Eyes on Milwaukee

Rocky Marcoux Keeps His Job

In a dramatic turnabout, the once-dead DCD head gains 11 of 15 council member votes.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Kills Prospect Ave High Rise
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Kills Prospect Ave High Rise

Impressive 27-story, $55 million project is dead, due to opposition of neighbors.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Committee Again Says Yes to Rocky
Eyes on Milwaukee

Committee Again Says Yes to Rocky

DCD head Rocky Marcoux once again endorsed at committee, but his fate is still uncertain.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Committee Approves Prospect Tower
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Committee Approves Prospect Tower

5-0 vote in favor, but project may face significant challenge before full council.

Outrage at ambush of MPD officer & other police shootings
Press Release

Outrage at ambush of MPD officer & other police shootings

Joint Statement from All Members of the Common Council

Eyes on Milwaukee: A New Tower for Prospect Ave
Eyes on Milwaukee

A New Tower for Prospect Ave

Will the council allow a 27 floor apartment tower on Prospect Ave?

Murphy’s Law: Why Rocky Marcoux Is In Trouble
Murphy’s Law

Why Rocky Marcoux Is In Trouble

New Common Council leaders want to ax the DCD leader. But why? Few will say.

Bar Exam: TWO Is For Couples, Get It?
Bar Exam

TWO Is For Couples, Get It?

Yep, the former Riverwest tailor shop is a tavern with intimate booths for TWOsomes.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Panel Approves Bus Rapid Transit
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Panel Approves Bus Rapid Transit

BRT line linking Downtown and Tosa moves forward, though some decry "the rush."

House Confidential: Gary Witt’s House of Rock
House Confidential

Gary Witt’s House of Rock

Actually, you'd never suspect the hip Pabst leader owns this old-style, Prospect Hill home.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Rocky Marcoux’s Job in Jeopardy
Eyes on Milwaukee

Rocky Marcoux’s Job in Jeopardy

Council majority votes no, but decision will get reconsidered. His chances look slim.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Kick-Off for Brady St. Apartment Complex
Eyes on Milwaukee

Kick-Off for Brady St. Apartment Complex

Gold sledgehammers celebrate groundbreaking for new 22-unit building.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Rocky Marcoux Wins Committee Approval
Eyes on Milwaukee

Rocky Marcoux Wins Committee Approval

DCD leader was thought to be in trouble, but city committee votes 4-0 to reconfirm.

Taking “Home” out of Home Rule
Press Release

Taking “Home” out of Home Rule

Joint Statement from All Members of the Common Council

Busy East Side Saturday with the Downer Classic and Summer Soulstice
Press Release

Busy East Side Saturday with the Downer Classic and Summer Soulstice

Alderman Nik Kovac said the events have become “part of the normal rhythm of summer on the East Side.”

House Confidential: Atty Mark Thomsen’s Tudor Mansion
House Confidential

Atty Mark Thomsen’s Tudor Mansion

New appointee to state Elections Commission overhauled his East Side mansion.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Inside Good City Brewing
Eyes on Milwaukee

Inside Good City Brewing

Take a virtual tour of the city's newest brewery, the first on the Lower East Side.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Fresh Thyme Opens Downtown
Eyes on Milwaukee

Fresh Thyme Opens Downtown

See inside Milwaukee's newest grocery store, with the "spirit of a farmer's market."

Groundbreaking set for addition at MPS’ top-performing Maryland Avenue Montessori School
Press Release

Groundbreaking set for addition at MPS’ top-performing Maryland Avenue Montessori School

School rated 'Exceeds Expectations' on latest state report card

Aldermen Unveil Anti-Violence Initiative

Aldermen Unveil Anti-Violence Initiative

Hamilton and 11 other aldermen call for “holistic approach” to gun violence.

Celebrate Wisconsin Bike Week with Mayor Tom Barrett, Alderpersons, the Wisconsin Bike Fed, and Bublr Bikes
Bar Exam: Riverwest Tavern Is Very Dog-Friendly
Bar Exam

Riverwest Tavern Is Very Dog-Friendly

There's been a neighborhood bar here for 100 years. The dogs are more recent.

Plenty of Horne: Mayor’s Design Awards
Plenty of Horne

Mayor’s Design Awards

The 2016 Mayor's Design Awards recognized projects from every corner of the city.

House Confidential: Architect Jim Shields’ Home Is… Okay
House Confidential

Architect Jim Shields’ Home Is… Okay

The city's best architect lives in a... solid East Side home. But those plaster cracks!

Fresh Thyme Farmers Market Announces Grand Opening of Milwaukee Store
Press Release

Fresh Thyme Farmers Market Announces Grand Opening of Milwaukee Store

Midwest Specialty Retailer Expansion Efforts Continue with the Opening of First Wisconsin Store

Two New Playgrounds Opening

Two New Playgrounds Opening

Park-like play areas for kids among 12 funded by $1.9 million raised by Ald. Murphy.

Plenty of Horne: Nick’s House to Meet Wrecking Ball
Plenty of Horne

Nick’s House to Meet Wrecking Ball

East Side tavern's building from 1880s has unique structure, virgin wood. Why destroy it?

Eyes on Milwaukee: Bucks Arena Design Approved
Eyes on Milwaukee

Bucks Arena Design Approved

There were few objections other than by Ald. Kovac. Arena on track for June 18th groundbreaking.

Mural-makers to transform East Side alley into a work of art

Contribution to David Crowley of $30

Mural-makers to transform East Side alley into a work of art
Press Release

Mural-makers to transform East Side alley into a work of art

Throughout the summer, artists will transform the alley that runs behind the Oriental Theatre and Colectivo Coffee into an outdoor collection of murals.

Bar Exam: Roman Coin a Pub For Pooches
Bar Exam

Roman Coin a Pub For Pooches

Pets are welcome at the historic, 1890 tavern. It's a classic hangout.

Outdoor painting competition begins this weekend
Press Release

Outdoor painting competition begins this weekend

The events benefit the museums of the Milwaukee Museum Mile.

House Confidential: The Mansion Where Nuns Lived
House Confidential

The Mansion Where Nuns Lived

With connections to France, novelist Henry James and abolitionist Edward Holton.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Hall’s Game of Thrones
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Hall’s Game of Thrones

Hail Ashanti! Ald. Hamilton's route to the Iron Throne laid bare.

Council President Hamilton announces 2016-2020 committee assignments
Press Release

Council President Hamilton announces 2016-2020 committee assignments

News release from Alderman Ashanti Hamilton

House Confidential: The Town’s Most Ship-Shape Home
House Confidential

The Town’s Most Ship-Shape Home

The "Boat House" on Cambridge, built in 1920s, is internationally known.

Bar Exam: Angelo’s Piano Lounge Amps It Up
Bar Exam

Angelo’s Piano Lounge Amps It Up

After $100,000 renovation, old bar dating to 1930s has dropped Sinatra for rock'n'roll.

House Confidential: The Full Magnificence of a 1916 Home
House Confidential

The Full Magnificence of a 1916 Home

Bob Monnat's $475,000 Georgian Revival Colonial celebrates its 100th anniversary.

Bar Exam: Falcon Bowl, a Polish Milwaukee Treasure
Bar Exam

Falcon Bowl, a Polish Milwaukee Treasure

An old-timey bar and hall and the sixth oldest bowling alley in America. Classic.

Ready to Work
Press Release

Ready to Work

I am looking forward to serving the interests of district residents on Milwaukee's Common Council.

House Confidential: Shannan Hayden’s Nifty Newberry Tudor
House Confidential

Shannan Hayden’s Nifty Newberry Tudor

Hayden is running against Ald. Nik Kovac and has a much finer home.

House Confidential: The Two Homes of Rebecca Bradley
House Confidential

The Two Homes of Rebecca Bradley

Judge has Tosa Colonial and a Lower East Side condo near all those gays she condemned.

House Confidential: Mysterious $1 Million Lakeside Mansion
House Confidential

Mysterious $1 Million Lakeside Mansion

Why does real estate honcho James Barry III hide his home's ownership?

Bar Exam: Coffeetails Is For Morning Drinkers
Bar Exam

Coffeetails Is For Morning Drinkers

Cozy cafe and tavern, sister bar of Y-NOT II, is open daily 6 am to 11 am.

Plenty of Horne: Kenney Targets Ald. Borkowski
Plenty of Horne

Kenney Targets Ald. Borkowski

Should challenger win, would be only military veteran on Common Council.

Eyes on Milwaukee: 9 Election Takeaways
Eyes on Milwaukee

9 Election Takeaways

Tom Barrett might be in trouble, Chris Abele definitely is. So is Puente.

Plenty of Horne: Kovac Raises Money for Reelection
Plenty of Horne

Kovac Raises Money for Reelection

Politicians, city officials and other notables chow down on food from Glorioso's.

Eyes on Milwaukee: 26-Story Tower for Prospect Avenue
Eyes on Milwaukee

26-Story Tower for Prospect Avenue

Here are all the details on proposed $55 million project: renderings, floor plans, diagrams.

2016 State of the City
Press Release

2016 State of the City

Hmong American Peace Academy - February 8, 2016

Eyes on Milwaukee: New High Rise for East Side
Eyes on Milwaukee

New High Rise for East Side

It's a 13-story, 153-unit apartment building and neighbors seem to love the idea!

Plenty of Horne: City Birthday Party All About Dining
Plenty of Horne

City Birthday Party All About Dining

Politicians and candidate hopefuls mix with winners of dining awards.

House Confidential: Ald. Kovac’s “Adult” Home Is Very Modest
House Confidential

Ald. Kovac’s “Adult” Home Is Very Modest

The 1893 Riverwest home has just 1.5 stories and one bathroom with 10% ventilation.

Murphy’s Law: The Lonely Journey of Mark Borkowski
Murphy’s Law

The Lonely Journey of Mark Borkowski

New alderman’s crazed comments leave him only (and barely) the police union's support.

Bar Exam: Klinger’s East Is a Time Warp
Bar Exam

Klinger’s East Is a Time Warp

Still with same owner after 40 years, it's very old Milwaukee -- modest, cozy, quaint.

House Confidential: Dr. Sheldon Wasserman’s Lesser Manse
House Confidential

Dr. Sheldon Wasserman’s Lesser Manse

The Democrat's $655,700 Lake Dr. home barely compares to his neighbors' mansions.

Murphy’s Law: What Has Mayor Barrett Accomplished?
Murphy’s Law

What Has Mayor Barrett Accomplished?

After nearly 12 years in office, his impact can be seen -- if you look hard.

Eyes on Milwaukee: The Impact of New Development
Eyes on Milwaukee

The Impact of New Development

Study of 7 new buildings shows big revenue, big return for local government.

Bar Exam: History of the Up and Under
Bar Exam

History of the Up and Under

It dates back a century, was a Polish bar, "soft drink parlor" and a house of blues.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Ten Predictions for 2016
Eyes on Milwaukee

Ten Predictions for 2016

A new downtown strip club, less crime, more Sheriff Clarke. It's all coming… we think.

Bar Exam: Von Trier Is a Teutonic Treasure
Bar Exam

Von Trier Is a Teutonic Treasure

It abounds in such artifacts and boasts a huge selection of German tap beers.

House Confidential: A Historic House Almost Destroyed
House Confidential

A Historic House Almost Destroyed

1880 home on Cambridge saved by historic preservation law that could be overthrown.

Program Will Improve Riverwest Park Snails Crossing

Program Will Improve Riverwest Park Snails Crossing

It's one of 12 parks and playgrounds being upgraded by private-public MKE Plays Initiative.

Bar Exam: Hybrid Lounge, City’s Newest Gay Bar
Bar Exam

Hybrid Lounge, City’s Newest Gay Bar

In a building whose history goes back to 1890, it attracts a hybrid of gay and straight folks.

Town Hall Meeting Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Town Hall Meeting Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac

Alderman Nik Kovac invites you to attend a 3rd District town hall meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 2nd at the East Library (2320 N Cramer Street).

Budget Discussion with Alderman Nik Kovac and County Executive Abele
Press Release

Budget Discussion with Alderman Nik Kovac and County Executive Abele

Alderman Nik Kovac and County Executive Chris Abele invite you to join them for a town hall discussion on both the city and county budgets

Friday Photos: Finally Comes Greenwich Park Apartments
Friday Photos

Finally Comes Greenwich Park Apartments

The Farwell Ave. project was supposed to start construction more than four years ago.

Brady Street’s Delicate Balancing Act

Brady Street’s Delicate Balancing Act

Residents strive to keep a healthy mix of uses in their densely populated neighborhood.

Yet again, report shows Milwaukee tax burden ranks favorably among peers
Press Release

Yet again, report shows Milwaukee tax burden ranks favorably among peers

News release from Alds. Nik Kovac and Terry L. Witkowski

Important Meeting Reminder from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Important Meeting Reminder from Alderman Nik Kovac

Just a friendly reminder that you are invited to attend a community meeting at The Jazz Estate, 2423 N. Murray Avenue, TONIGHT (Wednesday, November 18) at 6 p.m.

 
Citation

Taking the Pulse of the 2016 Milwaukee Elections

Council approves 2016 budget focused on public safety, libraries and jobs
Press Release

Council approves 2016 budget focused on public safety, libraries and jobs

News release from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Nik Kovac

Plenty of Horne: Ira Robins Makes Bid for Kovac Seat
Plenty of Horne

Ira Robins Makes Bid for Kovac Seat

Launches campaign by making shocking, though, unsupported allegations.

Plenty of Horne: City Accepts $14 Million Federal Streetcar Grant
Plenty of Horne

City Accepts $14 Million Federal Streetcar Grant

City wins TIGER grant after "a brutal competition" where demand for transit dollars greatly exceeded the sums appropriated.

Will Pizza Sports Bar Open on Farwell?

Will Pizza Sports Bar Open on Farwell?

Rosati's pizza has 158 locations and wants to add one near Oriental Theatre, if residents will agree.

Brady Street apartment development gets one OK and one deferral after lengthy design discussion
Eyes on Milwaukee: New Bucks Arena Approved
Eyes on Milwaukee

New Bucks Arena Approved

City completes final step of financing puzzle for new Bucks arena.

Aldermen approve borrowing for the new arena
Citation

Aldermen approve borrowing for the new arena

City weighs new Silk Exotic plan, settlement with strip club
Citation

City weighs new Silk Exotic plan, settlement with strip club

Disagreement on closing street could affect Bucks arena plan
Citation

Disagreement on closing street could affect Bucks arena plan

Plenty of Horne: Prospect Avenue Apartments Win Board OK
Plenty of Horne

Prospect Avenue Apartments Win Board OK

One-way traffic on N. Prospect Ave. slammed by developer

Developer cleared to convert Prospect Avenue parking lot into apartment building
Citation

Developer cleared to convert Prospect Avenue parking lot into apartment building

Bucks, Ald. Bauman at loggerheads on street-closing near arena
Citation

Bucks, Ald. Bauman at loggerheads on street-closing near arena

Bar Exam: The Winchester, a Zombie Bar?
Bar Exam

The Winchester, a Zombie Bar?

The Winchester replaces chain bar Two Bucks, which lost its franchise after allegations of racism

City panel OKs $47 million for Bucks arena; opening may be delayed to 2018
Now Serving: Brady Street Won’t Get Camp Bar
Now Serving

Brady Street Won’t Get Camp Bar

Owner backs off from plan to put bar in old hardware store building. So what will take its place?

Bar Exam: Landmark Lanes’ Jazzy 88-Year History
Bar Exam

Landmark Lanes’ Jazzy 88-Year History

Serving booze during prohibition and built by a billionaire jailbird whose son become an ambassador.

House Confidential: City Clerk’s Home Is His Castle
House Confidential

City Clerk’s Home Is His Castle

Jim Owczarski's home towers over the nearby ranch homes.

Plenty of Horne: Architectural Review Board for Bay View?
Plenty of Horne

Architectural Review Board for Bay View?

Ald. Zielinski has raised question and a KK Ave. BID member makes inquiries about starting ARB.

Newly Opened ARTery Path Extends Beerline

Newly Opened ARTery Path Extends Beerline

Public and private sector leaders applaud the new .67 mile trail connecting Riverwest and Harambee.

Bar Exam: Jamo’s, a 1950s Time Warp
Bar Exam

Jamo’s, a 1950s Time Warp

A quiet corner bar of long vintage with velvet paintings of misty-eyed beauties, it's not easy to find.

Common Council will review arena plan in series of meetings beginning August 31
Press Release

Common Council will review arena plan in series of meetings beginning August 31

News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

Plenty of Horne: Brady Street Apartments Debated at Meeting
Plenty of Horne

Brady Street Apartments Debated at Meeting

And Frank Alioto gives remarkable speech about Brady Street's potential.

Common Council ready for substantive, public review of arena proposal
Press Release

Common Council ready for substantive, public review of arena proposal

The downtown arena proposal is nearing a full review and deliberation by the Common Council.

Plenty of Horne: Harbor Area Will Be Redesigned
Plenty of Horne

Harbor Area Will Be Redesigned

Calling all architects & planners: Brownfield with coal piles bordering harbor will be redeveloped.

House Confidential: The House That Launched Riverwest 24
House Confidential

The House That Launched Riverwest 24

Jeramey Prach founded the 24-hour bike race and his modest, 19th century home, now greatly expanded, is the race's start and finish line.

Intersection: North and Farwell
Intersection

North and Farwell

It’s already quite vibrant, but changes like turning Prospect and Farwell into two-way streets could improve it.

Council leaders call for removal of last-minute police and fire benefit mandate in state budget
Press Release

Council leaders call for removal of last-minute police and fire benefit mandate in state budget

News release from Alds. Michael J. Murphy and Nik Kovac

Plenty of Horne: New Apartment Complex for Brady Street
Plenty of Horne

New Apartment Complex for Brady Street

Proposed three-floor structure would offer apartments aimed at millennials plus 2,400 square feel of retail space.

City Officials Act to Save Cambridge Ave. Home

City Officials Act to Save Cambridge Ave. Home

Ald. Kovac sought temporary historic designation, contends too many period homes have been razed for apartment buildings.

Paving Project Information from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Paving Project Information from Alderman Nik Kovac

Although this may disrupt your travel and parking for a short time, I know we all will be pleased when Newberry Boulevard is smooth again—just in time for the 4th of July parade.

Plenty of Horne: Celebrating the Life of Paul Jakubovich
Plenty of Horne

Celebrating the Life of Paul Jakubovich

A host of notables gathered to salute Jakubovich and the fabulous historic architecture of Milwaukee he helped protect.

Public hearing set on city’s proposed financing package for new arena
Citation

Public hearing set on city’s proposed financing package for new arena

The City’s Real Costs for Bucks Arena

The City’s Real Costs for Bucks Arena

The exact total is unknown, but will be much higher than media has reported.

Impact of City Reduction in Marijuana Fine?

Impact of City Reduction in Marijuana Fine?

Local leaders offer different views on new city ordinance lowering maximum fine for pot possession to just $50.

City officials take on business leaders in basketball game to benefit Autism Speaks
Press Release

City officials take on business leaders in basketball game to benefit Autism Speaks

A team of Milwaukee public officials will face off against business leaders from around the city in a basketball game and charity event to benefit Autism Speaks on Saturday, June 13 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Journey House.

Plats and Parcels: 342 More Apartments Approved
Plats and Parcels

342 More Apartments Approved

New projects approved for Water Street and East Side. Plus, a 120-unit complex coming to Walker's Point would increase total to 462 apartments.

Plenty of Horne: The City’s Illegal Entertainers
Plenty of Horne

The City’s Illegal Entertainers

Until recently, Radio Milwaukee held live events with no city permit. Colectivo's live entertainment offerings at its Prospect Ave. location are still illegal.

City Considers Lowering Penalties for Marijuana

City Considers Lowering Penalties for Marijuana

Study shows 86% of those convicted of pot possession are African American.

Plenty of Horne: Will Historic Building in Third Ward Be Saved?
Plenty of Horne

Will Historic Building in Third Ward Be Saved?

Third Ward review board defers decision on Historic Designation. And Milwaukee now has a Croatian sister city.

Plats and Parcels: Bay View’s Golden Age?
Plats and Parcels

Bay View’s Golden Age?

A proposal for five new apartment buildings in Bay View. And will At Random be razed?

Plenty of Horne: Downer Avenue Stalled by Joel Lee?
Plenty of Horne

Downer Avenue Stalled by Joel Lee?

City officials meet with neighbors about Downer Avenue, a thriving retail strip with one huge problem: Landlord Joel Lee's foreclosed properties.

Plenty of Horne: De Blasio Descends on Milwaukee
Plenty of Horne

De Blasio Descends on Milwaukee

New York's mayor and crew of handlers and security came for his speech to state Democrats. Later he partied with local pols and local brews at Nick's House.

Friday Photos: 1800 E. North Ave. Arises From the Ashes
Friday Photos

1800 E. North Ave. Arises From the Ashes

Five years after the Pizza Man fire, a mixed-use building with 39 apartments and 6,000 square feet for retail is nearly built. But what about those darn ventilation grills?

Mayor Barrett’s 2015 State of the City Address
Press Release

Mayor Barrett’s 2015 State of the City Address

Monday, March 9th, 2015 - Alverno College

Neighborhood Meeting regarding Library Club Replacement
Press Release

Neighborhood Meeting regarding Library Club Replacement

I am hosting a neighborhood meeting regarding a NEW application for a Class B Tavern License and Public Entertainment Premise License for the old Library Club

Bar Exam: Halliday’s Is Historic Oddity
Bar Exam

Halliday’s Is Historic Oddity

An 1888 home designed by Alfred Clas became a funny little tavern on Farwell where a bar stool always seems available.

Friday Photos: Streetcar Signing Is Quite a Celebration
Friday Photos

Streetcar Signing Is Quite a Celebration

The mayor, business leaders and pols toasted the streetcar in Cudahy's Irish Pub, with Michael Cudahy on hand.

Plenty of Horne: Rebuilding A World of Cream City Brick
Plenty of Horne

Rebuilding A World of Cream City Brick

Huge "River House" development on the river will have 450 apartments, a substantial riverwalk and an updated Cream City design by architect Jim Shields.

Plenty of Horne: Milwaukeean Scores Top NYC Job
Plenty of Horne

Milwaukeean Scores Top NYC Job

Phil Walzak, who ran campaigns for Kohl, Barrett and Abele, is now a high-paid aide and good buddy of New York Mayor de Blasio.

Neighborhood Meeting and Project Information for the Proposed River House Development, Milwaukee, WI
Press Release

Neighborhood Meeting and Project Information for the Proposed River House Development, Milwaukee, WI

Atlantic Realty Partners and its design team will discuss the proposed redevelopment of the former Gallun Tannery site.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Milwaukee Streetcar Approved
Eyes on Milwaukee

Milwaukee Streetcar Approved

After years of debate, streetcar will finally move forward. Final engineering will begin immediately, and construction by the end of the year.

Plenty of Horne: Horrors, Look At Those Building Vents!
Plenty of Horne

Horrors, Look At Those Building Vents!

East Side Architectural Review Board shudders at unapproved venting on new building at Oakland and North. Is there a solution?

Members of the Common Council Respond to Ald. Dudzik’s Remarks
Press Release

Members of the Common Council Respond to Ald. Dudzik’s Remarks

Joint Statement from members of the Common Council

Eyes on Milwaukee: Streetcar Responses Shows Wide Support
Eyes on Milwaukee

Streetcar Responses Shows Wide Support

Eleven out of 15 aldermanic districts, and 76 percent of all respondents support the proposed streetcar starter system.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Streetcar Approved, but Held
Eyes on Milwaukee

Streetcar Approved, but Held

Large majority votes to approve streetcar, but parliamentary maneuver puts issue on hold until February 10th meeting.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Streetcar Backers Say They Have the Votes
Eyes on Milwaukee

Streetcar Backers Say They Have the Votes

Aldermen Witkowski and Perez now favor it, and touted plan to extend the line into their south-side districts.

Plenty of Horne: The Legacy of Paul Jakubovich
Plenty of Horne

The Legacy of Paul Jakubovich

The City’s Historic Preservation Officer had an unmatched knowledge of and commitment to the preservation of historic buildings.

In Public: Why the Swing Park Failed
In Public

Why the Swing Park Failed

It became a comedy of errors, but raises serious questions about the city’s strategy for “creative placemaking.”

Council approves Milwaukee Promise funding to help city neighborhoods
Press Release

Council approves Milwaukee Promise funding to help city neighborhoods

News release and maps document from Alderman Ashanti Hamilton

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Delays Streetcar Until January
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Delays Streetcar Until January

Minority of aldermen were able to use city charter provision to delay project for one month, but a majority seems poised to approve it.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Committee Takes No Action on Streetcar
Eyes on Milwaukee

Committee Takes No Action on Streetcar

Public Works Committee votes to send streetcar proposal to full council, setting up a showdown Dec. 16th.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Committee Approves Milwaukee Streetcar
Eyes on Milwaukee

Committee Approves Milwaukee Streetcar

Mayor offers historic address to council committee on streetcar and it gains their approval. Only one person speaks in opposition.

Taverns: The Standard Has a Strange History
Taverns

The Standard Has a Strange History

Just off Brady Street, it goes back to 1888, with a long list of owners and names.

Plenty of Horne: Huge Turnout for East Library Opening
Plenty of Horne

Huge Turnout for East Library Opening

It was a truly an East Side event, and a crowd with tons of notables celebrated history in the making.

Plenty of Horne: Next Stops For The Streetcar
Plenty of Horne

Next Stops For The Streetcar

The devil is in the details of tax incremental financing and various meetings and approvals needed before construction begins.

Eyes on Milwaukee: New East Library is a Jewel
Eyes on Milwaukee

New East Library is a Jewel

Wow, what an improvement. Our photos capture the technology-rich and architecturally impressive new library

A big league city needs big league public transit options
Press Release

A big league city needs big league public transit options

Statement of Alderman Nik Kovac November 19, 2014

Eyes on Milwaukee: Barrett Moving Forward With Streetcar
Eyes on Milwaukee

Barrett Moving Forward With Streetcar

If Common Council approves at December 16 meeting, construction would start in late 2015, and Milwaukee would follow in footsteps of many other cities.

City Unveils New Plan to Build on $2.6 Billion in Downtown Investment by Moving the Streetcar Project Forward, Adding Lakefront Line
Press Release

City Unveils New Plan to Build on $2.6 Billion in Downtown Investment by Moving the Streetcar Project Forward, Adding Lakefront Line

Plan Covers Lakefront Line, Utility Costs Without Property Tax Dollars; Operations Slated to Begin by 2018

Plenty of Horne: Will Red Lion Roar on Water Street?
Plenty of Horne

Will Red Lion Roar on Water Street?

Proposed British pub would replace Brocach. Approval seems likely, despite some worries about noise from the patio.

Common Council finds opportunities for efficiencies in 2015 approved budget
Press Release

Common Council finds opportunities for efficiencies in 2015 approved budget

News release from Alds. Michael J. Murphy and Nik Kovac

Plenty of Horne: Last Remaining Single Family Riverfront Lot
Plenty of Horne

Last Remaining Single Family Riverfront Lot

“Build your dream home in an established community.” The lot can be yours for just $79,000.

Finance Committee Creates All-Hands-On-Deck Approach to Public Safety
Press Release

Finance Committee Creates All-Hands-On-Deck Approach to Public Safety

Additional Police Officers Will Be One Part of Comprehensive Strategy Throughout All City Departments

Milwaukee Bans Financial Inducements by Charter Schools
Press Release

Milwaukee Bans Financial Inducements by Charter Schools

City of Milwaukee charter schools are now prohibited from giving money or gifts as incentives to enroll new students.

RICH program, selling city-owned foreclosed homes for $1, receives unanimous Council support
Press Release

RICH program, selling city-owned foreclosed homes for $1, receives unanimous Council support

ews release from Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Eyes on Milwaukee: 700 E. Kilbourn High-Rise Wins Key Approval
Eyes on Milwaukee

700 E. Kilbourn High-Rise Wins Key Approval

Proposed high-rise would add up to 275 "ultra luxury" apartments to downtown Milwaukee -- with no public financing.

Taverns: The Gig is Good for Cheap Micro-Brews
Taverns

The Gig is Good for Cheap Micro-Brews

Tucked away in Riverwest since 1904, it offers micro-brews in a micro-neighborhood

Doors Open: Inside the Standard at East Library
Doors Open

Inside the Standard at East Library

Our photos capture the interior of a one-bedroom apartment, its great views, and the rooftop deck.

Housing stock, affordable housing get boost from Common Council
Press Release

Housing stock, affordable housing get boost from Common Council

The Common Council has approved a new Housing Stock Improvement Program

Nonprofits can buy city-owned foreclosures for $1, additional marketing to continue
Press Release

Nonprofits can buy city-owned foreclosures for $1, additional marketing to continue

Qualifying nonprofit organizations will be allowed to purchase certain cityowned, tax-foreclosed properties for one dollar.

Council members target enrollment incentives offered by charter schools
Press Release

Council members target enrollment incentives offered by charter schools

News release from Alds. Nik Kovac and Michael J. Murphy

Plenty of Horne: City Leaders Plot New Urban Placemaking Effort
Plenty of Horne

City Leaders Plot New Urban Placemaking Effort

With some creative use of grant money, the Greater Milwaukee Committee is helping neighborhoods update their image by ‘Urban Placemaking’

Eyes on Milwaukee: Milwaukee’s Biggest Building Breaks Ground
Eyes on Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s Biggest Building Breaks Ground

"A beautiful day in Milwaukee" and for assembled power brokers as Northwestern Mutual's new skyscraper gets underway.

City of Milwaukee Preliminary Budget Hearing
Press Release

City of Milwaukee Preliminary Budget Hearing

The City of Milwaukee will hold a 2015 Preliminary Budget Hearing to ensure the 2015 City of Milwaukee Budget addresses the needs of our community

Plenty of Horne: Ambulance Chasing Lawyer Chases Abele
Plenty of Horne

Ambulance Chasing Lawyer Chases Abele

Plus: Bud Selig’s birthday bash and where will new Journal CEO live?

If a Progressive will not fight for what is right, how can that Progressive claim to fight for the people?
Cyclists, city officials gearing up for seventh annual Riverwest 24
Press Release

Cyclists, city officials gearing up for seventh annual Riverwest 24

Riverwest 24 Starts tonight -- News release from Alds. Kovac and Coggs

Back in the News: “Controversy” Over Swing Park?
Back in the News

“Controversy” Over Swing Park?

Architect blasts city for altering her design. Are her complaints valid?

Eyes on Milwaukee: The Swings are Back — and Better than Before
Eyes on Milwaukee

The Swings are Back — and Better than Before

Guerrilla urbanism triumphs, as “magical” swings re-installed under Holton Avenue Bridge.

Council approves minimum hourly wage ordinance
Press Release

Council approves minimum hourly wage ordinance

Joint news release and file from Alderman Hamilton, Alderman Kovac and Alderwoman Coggs

Eyes on Milwaukee: Uber and Lyft Legalized in Milwaukee
Eyes on Milwaukee

Uber and Lyft Legalized in Milwaukee

Taxis for anyone who wants to drive one. Uber and Lyft are legal. And someone will probably sue the city to stop this.

Proposal to lift cap on taxicab permits, create legal path for network company vehicles gets second look Tuesday
Press Release

Proposal to lift cap on taxicab permits, create legal path for network company vehicles gets second look Tuesday

“The Council is poised to adopt ground-breaking legislation that in my opinion will be looked at by other large cities and communities across the nation.”

Hard Hat Tour: The Standard at East Library
Hard Hat Tour

The Standard at East Library

Our photos take you inside the new library and apartment building on North Ave.

Could Milwaukee Support a Pro Soccer Team?

Could Milwaukee Support a Pro Soccer Team?

How I came to embrace soccer and what it could mean for America and Milwaukee.

Photo Gallery: Soccer Crowd Shuts Down Brady Street
Photo Gallery

Soccer Crowd Shuts Down Brady Street

As many as 15,000 people pack Brady Street and surround Nomad Bar, while celebrating USA v Portugal game.

Eyes on Milwaukee: MSOE Renames Soccer Field
Eyes on Milwaukee

MSOE Renames Soccer Field

Kovac wonders why MSOE would name it after its current president. And why an engineering school couldn't dig a deep enough hole for its soccer field.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Finally, a New Park East Plan
Eyes on Milwaukee

Finally, a New Park East Plan

Ten years later, the city and county are finally on the same page. Is development in the area ready to "explode"?

Brady Street BID#11 Teams up with NEWaukee for 3rd Annual Art Walk
Press Release

Brady Street BID#11 Teams up with NEWaukee for 3rd Annual Art Walk

The Brady Street Business Improvement District, BID#11, and NEWaukee will partner up to host the 3rd Annual Art Walk during Spring on Brady.

City Commission Says Yes to Adventure Rock

City Commission Says Yes to Adventure Rock

Zoning change approved for planned 4-story, 46-unit apartment complex and indoor climbing wall in Riverwest.

Meeting invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Meeting invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac

Join State Senator Chris Larson and Milwaukee Alderman Nik Kovac for a town hall meeting on Tuesday, May 13

Meeting invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Meeting invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac

Join State Senator Chris Larson and Milwaukee Alderman Nik Kovac for a town hall meeting on Tuesday, May 13 at the Riverside University High School Auditorium, 1615 E. Locust Street, from 5pm to 6:30pm

Important meeting information from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Important meeting information from Alderman Nik Kovac

Join us for a town hall meeting sponsored by Senator Chris Larson, Senator Nikiya Harris, Representative Leon Young, Alderman Nik Kovac and Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs tomorrow (Tuesday, May 6) at theGordon Park Pavilion (SE corner of E. Locust and N. Humboldt) from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Hear how legislation that passed during session this year will affect the community, and share your thoughts with your representatives.

Meeting reminder from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Meeting reminder from Alderman Nik Kovac

Alderman Nik Kovac invites you to attend a 3rd District town hall meeting from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. TONIGHT, April 30 in the library at Riverside University High School.

Eyes on Milwaukee: We Hate This Boston Store Subsidy!
Eyes on Milwaukee

We Hate This Boston Store Subsidy!

Common Council members all complain about the TIF for Boston Store, then pass it 11-3.

Cesar Chavez city worker holiday proposal to be heard by Finance and Personnel Committee
Press Release

Cesar Chavez city worker holiday proposal to be heard by Finance and Personnel Committee

City employees would have the option of taking off on March 31 annually as a holiday observing the birthday of American labor and civil rights champion Cesar E. Chavez.

House Confidential: The House of Hank the Dog
House Confidential

The House of Hank the Dog

The Brewer's canine mascot has a nine-room Whitefish Bay home and 10,000 square foot lot to roam in, all worth $570,000.

$10,000 Awarded to Community Artists for Performance Ideas in the ARTery, New Park in Harambee
Press Release

$10,000 Awarded to Community Artists for Performance Ideas in the ARTery, New Park in Harambee

Community members dreamed up 116 ideas in response, and after an open jury hosted at All People’s Church, beintween awarded a total of $10,000 to the top 20 winners.

Mayor Tom Barrett’s 2014 State of the City Address
Press Release

Mayor Tom Barrett’s 2014 State of the City Address

Milwaukee February 24, 2014 As Prepared for Delivery

Under new configuration, Finance and Personnel Committee will continue precedent of fiscal responsibility
Press Release

Under new configuration, Finance and Personnel Committee will continue precedent of fiscal responsibility

I would like to thank Common Council President Michael Murphy for entrusting me with the responsibility of chairing the City of Milwaukee’s Finance and Personnel Committee.

Strengths, experience reflected in changes in Common Council Committee Appointments
Press Release

Strengths, experience reflected in changes in Common Council Committee Appointments

President Murphy has appointed Alderman Nik Kovac to succeed him as the new chair of the Finance and Personnel Committee.

Ray Chi Selected to Commission Public Art at East Library
Press Release

Ray Chi Selected to Commission Public Art at East Library

Milwaukee Artist’s Concepts Will Activate Space on Cramer and North Avenue

Plenty of Horne: Owner of Strad Violin Tips Her Identity
Plenty of Horne

Owner of Strad Violin Tips Her Identity

The violin's owner was at the scene of the crime and signed her first name to a message published by Frank Almond.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Betting on the Common Council
Eyes on Milwaukee

Betting on the Common Council

Haven't got your fix with the Super Bowl? Gamble with friends on who will be the next council president.

Plenty of Horne: Huge Turnout for City Birthday Party
Plenty of Horne

Huge Turnout for City Birthday Party

Lots of politicians, journalists, lobbyists and others glad-handed each other and drank free beer to salute the city's 168th birthday.

Elections: Dan Adams’ Assembly Fundraiser
Elections

Dan Adams’ Assembly Fundraiser

He's got Abele's backing for the Milwaukee legislative seat, while Barrett backs Dimitrijevic.

Murphy’s Law: Does Downer Avenue Need a Tax Subsidy?
Murphy’s Law

Does Downer Avenue Need a Tax Subsidy?

Developer Joel Lee claims the buzzing retail strip needs help from the city.

Plenty of Horne: Goodbye Faye McBeath Foundation
Plenty of Horne

Goodbye Faye McBeath Foundation

The foundation created by a Milwaukee Journal heir gave untold millions to local causes since 1960s, but will spend its final assets this year.

Finalists Chosen for East Branch Public Art Project
Press Release

Finalists Chosen for East Branch Public Art Project

The Milwaukee Public Library Selects Four Local Artists To Present Plans for Third Public Art Installation

Plenty of Horne: Campaign Season Kicks Off
Plenty of Horne

Campaign Season Kicks Off

Politicos flock to Jon Richards fundraiser, and judicial candidate Janet C. Protasiewicz's event.

The Other Mandela

The Other Mandela

The fundraiser for Rep. Mandela Barnes, just two days before his namesake Nelson Mandela died, had a big turnout.

Bike-sharing program moves forward with committee approval
Press Release

Bike-sharing program moves forward with committee approval

A public bike-sharing system for the City of Milwaukee picked up the endorsement of a key Common Council committee on Wednesday.

Reminder: Neighborhood Town hall Set for Wednesday, December 11
Press Release

Reminder: Neighborhood Town hall Set for Wednesday, December 11

The event will be held in the auditorium at Riverside University High School, 1615 E. Locust St. from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Plenty of Horne: Amtrak to Chicago Will Go Wireless
Plenty of Horne

Amtrak to Chicago Will Go Wireless

Finally, the line will get Wi-Fi (we hope), but Milwaukee's Amtrak station still lacks it.

Wangard Breaks Ground on New Apartment Development in Park East Corridor
Press Release

Wangard Breaks Ground on New Apartment Development in Park East Corridor

Avenir apartments expected to open September 2014

Eyes on Milwaukee: Strip Club Coming to Downtown?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Strip Club Coming to Downtown?

City committee rules against exotic nightclub on Old World Third, then seems to open door to a location across from Bradley Center.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Commission Approves 6-Story East Side Apartments
Eyes on Milwaukee

Commission Approves 6-Story East Side Apartments

City Plan Commission unanimously approves proposed, 100-unit apartment complex.

Planning and a Pint Series Takes on Bradley Center Debate
Press Release

Planning and a Pint Series Takes on Bradley Center Debate

Discussion at the Bradley Center will center around future of facility, and the possibility a new arena.

Eyes on Milwaukee: They Like It, They Really Like It
Eyes on Milwaukee

They Like It, They Really Like It

East Side Architectural Review Board unanimously approves design for 6-story, 100-unit Greenwich Park Apartments

Riverside girls track team to cut ribbon on new track Saturday
Press Release

Riverside girls track team to cut ribbon on new track Saturday

Set for 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 12 at school; track had not been upgraded since 1977

Artists Chosen for Milwaukee Public Library East Branch Public Art Project
Press Release

Artists Chosen for Milwaukee Public Library East Branch Public Art Project

Local Artists Awarded Two Commissions for Internal Public Art Works

Public Meeting in Riverwest Next Week
Press Release

Public Meeting in Riverwest Next Week

A joint public meeting with Alderman Nik Kovac and Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs will be held at 6 p.m. on Monday, September 23, 2013.

House Confidential: The Hotel Shepard
House Confidential

The Hotel Shepard

The historic east side mansion charges $499 a night for two-day rentals and sleeps up to 20 people. Neighbors for some reason are irate.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Oakland & North Project Stalled Yet Again
Eyes on Milwaukee

Oakland & North Project Stalled Yet Again

Review board says the design of proposed mixed-use building is still not good enough for such an important site.

Murray Ave Parklet Takes It to the Street

Murray Ave Parklet Takes It to the Street

Parking spots on Milwaukee's East Side converted into a dining area.

Milwaukee Gets Ready to Cut Ribbon on First Parklet in City
Press Release

Milwaukee Gets Ready to Cut Ribbon on First Parklet in City

Public Invited to Grand Opening of ‘Curbside Dining Deck’ Today

Plenty of Horne: City Wants Changes for Old Pizza Man Site
Plenty of Horne

City Wants Changes for Old Pizza Man Site

Proposed building is "too boxy" and "monolithic," Ald. Kovac and others on review board say.

The Greening of Shorewood

The Greening of Shorewood

The suburb’s embrace of green roofs, rain barrels and rain gardens is a model for others, including Milwaukee.

Milwaukee Gets Ready to Cut Ribbon on First Parklet in City
Press Release

Milwaukee Gets Ready to Cut Ribbon on First Parklet in City

Public Invited to Grand Opening of ‘Curbside Dining Deck’ Aug. 23rd

Murphy’s Law: Can Wisconsin Avenue Be Saved?
Murphy’s Law

Can Wisconsin Avenue Be Saved?

A city task force hopes to revive the street but the obstacles are many.

Event Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Event Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac

I am hosting a neighborhood meeting regarding Library Club.

Photo Gallery: A Very Pleasant Opening
Photo Gallery

A Very Pleasant Opening

Photos and gossip from the ceremonial opening of the Pleasant Street Bridge.

Photo Gallery: East Library Groundbreaking
Photo Gallery

East Library Groundbreaking

Photos capture groundbreaking for new mixed-use development combining East Library, retail and apartments. Take that, Bayshore.

Plenty of Horne: St Paul Bridge Will Be Rebuilt
Plenty of Horne

St Paul Bridge Will Be Rebuilt

Seventh bridge reconstructed on Barrett's watch will include streetcar tracks.

Murphy’s Law: The $1 Million Art Project
Murphy’s Law

The $1 Million Art Project

Steve Marcus’ plan to bring world class sculpture to Milwaukee is expensive. Is it a good idea?

Where the Buffalo Roam

Where the Buffalo Roam

A new art project honoring Native American history will be constructed on the new Downtown to Bay View Bikeway

King Drive Owner Under Fire, Taxpayers Could Lose $212,000

King Drive Owner Under Fire, Taxpayers Could Lose $212,000

Ald. Coggs assails company for promising local grocery and leasing to Dollar Tree instead.

PACE energy efficiency initiative for buildings moves forward
Press Release

PACE energy efficiency initiative for buildings moves forward

Building on the success of the Me2 program, the City of Milwaukee is developing new financial resources to help building owners finance energy efficiency improvements on their properties and improvements that save energy dollars, create better buildings, create local jobs and improve the environment.

In Public: “Wait, Wait, Wait”
In Public

“Wait, Wait, Wait”

The city’s new audio crosswalk alerts are annoying -- and potentially dangerous.

Photo Gallery: Temporary East Library Opens
Photo Gallery

Temporary East Library Opens

It's just a block and a half away from the old library, and as Mayor Barrett demonstrated at its opening, you can still check out books.

Global Anti-Bigotry Campaign Makes U.S. Debut in Milwaukee
Press Release

Global Anti-Bigotry Campaign Makes U.S. Debut in Milwaukee

Milwaukee Jewish Federation collaborates with U.S. Department of State to launch Hours Against Hate

Landlord registration program could be eliminated
Press Release

Landlord registration program could be eliminated

Statement from Alderman Nik Kovac June 20, 2013

Plenty of Horne: Residents Reject Freshwater Name
Plenty of Horne

Residents Reject Freshwater Name

Contest to rename Pittsburgh Ave. to honor water institute didn't convince street's residents, who nixed Freshwater Way.

New legislation targets predatory schools, protects students
Press Release

New legislation targets predatory schools, protects students

Statement of Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs June 11, 2013

Eyes on Milwaukee: $350,000 Grant Funds Art Corridors
Eyes on Milwaukee

$350,000 Grant Funds Art Corridors

GMC lands grant from ArtPlace America to create artistic corridors in Riverwest and Harambee and on West Wisconsin Ave.

Photo Gallery: Mayor Barrett Bikes to Work!
Photo Gallery

Mayor Barrett Bikes to Work!

Mayor Barrett kicked off Bike to Work Week with his annual bike ride, and announced new city funding for bike-sharing.

Celebrate Bike to Work Week with Mayor Tom Barrett, Alderpersons, and The Wisconsin Bike Federation
City car sharing partnership brings Zipcar to the 3rd Aldermanic District
Press Release

City car sharing partnership brings Zipcar to the 3rd Aldermanic District

The City of Milwaukee has launched a new partnership with Zipcar, Inc. to offer a car sharing program in Milwaukee located in the 3rd District, Alderman Nik Kovac said.

Plenty of Horne: Mayor Says Streetcar is “Trojan Horse”
Plenty of Horne

Mayor Says Streetcar is “Trojan Horse”

Streetcar will be first leg of what he hopes will be a more extensive rail system.

Photo Gallery: Politics & Poetry II
Photo Gallery

Politics & Poetry II

Aldermen join seasoned poets to tout today's election and celebrate the memory of poet Anita Brooks.

Referendum on same-day registration a chance to make residents’ voices heard
Press Release

Referendum on same-day registration a chance to make residents’ voices heard

Joint Statement from members of the Common Council

Important information from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Important information from Alderman Nik Kovac

The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that's of critical importance to our future.

Milwaukee Public Library’s East Library Will Relocate to Temporary Facility This Summer and Hold Public Meeting on Design in April
Plenty of Horne: Mystery Behind the MU Law School Poll
Plenty of Horne

Mystery Behind the MU Law School Poll

MU's pollster calls Ald. Kovac's radio show. Is she from the "East Coast," as MU says, or India?

House Confidential: Rocky’s Throne of Stone
House Confidential

Rocky’s Throne of Stone

Neighbor and boss Tom Barrett says DCD head Rocky Marcoux worthy of Nobel Prize, but is his house?

House Confidential: Jim Wiechmann’s Gothic Mansion
House Confidential

Jim Wiechmann’s Gothic Mansion

The real estate tycoon and owner of Stevens Point Brewery has one of the grandest mansions in town.

Plenty of Horne: Brady Street BID Expands Boundaries?
Plenty of Horne

Brady Street BID Expands Boundaries?

And Milwaukee's corporations asleep on gay marriage issue?

Eyes on Milwaukee: A Historic Milwaukee Celebration
Eyes on Milwaukee

A Historic Milwaukee Celebration

Plus: A national green award for The Brewery; and bringing fruit trees to Walker's Point.

Mayor Barrett’s 2013 State of the City Address
Press Release

Mayor Barrett’s 2013 State of the City Address

Monday, February 25, 2013, Pritzlaff Building

31 Townhomes Coming to Riverwest

31 Townhomes Coming to Riverwest

All are apartments with lots of amenities but do they maximize their proximity to the river?

Facing the Foreclosure Crisis

Facing the Foreclosure Crisis

A packed crowd at City Hall listened to experts discuss the problem of foreclosed homes and possible solutions.

Urban home ownership, maintaining neighborhood vitality to be discussed during City Hall event Friday
Press Release

Urban home ownership, maintaining neighborhood vitality to be discussed during City Hall event Friday

A City Hall event on Friday (February 1) entitled “Panel on Urban Home Ownership and Neighborhood Vitality during the Foreclosure Crisis,” will feature Alderman Nik Kovac.

Plenty of Horne: Neighbors Boiling Over Boylston Plan
Plenty of Horne

Neighbors Boiling Over Boylston Plan

Too much congestion, they complain. Ald. Kovac is feeling the heat.

M. L. King Library is Open and Will Hold a Special Program on Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Press Release

M. L. King Library is Open and Will Hold a Special Program on Martin Luther King Jr. Day

All Other Milwaukee Public Libraries are closed for the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday

Same-day voter registration advisory referendum goes to voters on April 2, 2013
Press Release

Same-day voter registration advisory referendum goes to voters on April 2, 2013

Statement from Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs January 15, 2013

Event Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Event Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac

Alderman Nik Kovac, along with State Senator Chris Larson and State Representative Jon Richards, invites residents to a Community Town Hall meeting:

Council members applaud 911 cell phone shift vote by County Board
Press Release

Council members applaud 911 cell phone shift vote by County Board

The Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors today approved a compromise plan that will allow Milwaukee Police Department dispatchers to begin handling all 911 cell phone calls that originate in the city – a cooperative move that will save taxpayer dollars.

Milwaukee’s conservation efforts pay off with Bird City Wisconsin designation
Press Release

Milwaukee’s conservation efforts pay off with Bird City Wisconsin designation

Milwaukee Alderman Nik Kovac is pleased to announce that the City of Milwaukee is among six of the most recent municipalities to win recognition from Bird City Wisconsin.

Public vetting process needed for Fire and Police Commission appointments
Press Release

Public vetting process needed for Fire and Police Commission appointments

Joint Statement from Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, and Alderman José G. Pérez

Eyes on Milwaukee: Pizza and the Park East
Eyes on Milwaukee

Pizza and the Park East

Pizza Man and The Couture win approvals and a Park East hotel is also likely to be okayed.

East Library Design Public Meeting
Press Release

East Library Design Public Meeting

The Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) will hold a public meeting TOMORROW, December 11th on the new East Library design.

Murphy’s Law: Mayor Backs Flynn, Slams Newspaper
Murphy’s Law

Mayor Backs Flynn, Slams Newspaper

Journal Sentinel’s series on data errors “takes crime fighting officers off the street,” Barrett charges.

Neighborhood Meeting Tonight
Press Release

Neighborhood Meeting Tonight

Meeting on the proposed location for a new Pizza Man restaurant.

East Library Design Meeting
Press Release

East Library Design Meeting

The Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, December 11th on the new East Library design.

Alderman Kovac invites residents to stuff Santa’s sleigh tomorrow
Press Release

Alderman Kovac invites residents to stuff Santa’s sleigh tomorrow

Phoenix is seeking nonperishable food, monetary and in-kind donations to the Hunger Task Force.

Eyes on Milwaukee: The Dead Zones
Eyes on Milwaukee

The Dead Zones

Two new apartment buildings for Downtown's fringes, and two new coffee houses. All spell progress.

Neighborhood Meeting
Press Release

Neighborhood Meeting

Your input is important. I hope to see you there!

Council votes to support County Board’s Medical Examiner legislation
Press Release

Council votes to support County Board’s Medical Examiner legislation

County Board file establishes new policy for ME in cases involving death while in law enforcement custody

Mayor’s Committee to Host United Nations Anniversary Commeroration
Press Release

Mayor’s Committee to Host United Nations Anniversary Commeroration

The City of Milwaukee will be celebrating the ideals and impact of the United Nations on Wednesday, October 24, 2012 by hosting a presentation and reception in City Hall in honor of the 67th Anniversary of the United Nations Charter.

Power Play

Power Play

A city committee resists heavy lobbying and forestalls a special taxing district for Juneau Park and Cathedral Square.

Pattern and practice of potential police misconduct warrants federal investigation
Press Release

Pattern and practice of potential police misconduct warrants federal investigation

Joint Statement from members of the Common Council

Common Council members call for County to codify changes in Medical Examiner’s procedures
Press Release

Common Council members call for County to codify changes in Medical Examiner’s procedures

Several Council members met with the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office on Friday (Sept. 28) to discuss concerns related to the Derek Williams case.

Neighborhood Town Hall set for TONIGHT
Press Release

Neighborhood Town Hall set for TONIGHT

Milwaukee Alderman Nik Kovac invites residents to share concerns and hear from local officials at a Neighborhood Town Hall meeting this evening (Tuesday, October 2).

Citizens still waiting for answers about illegal strip searches
Press Release

Citizens still waiting for answers about illegal strip searches

Other Council members and I have recently been directing our efforts toward learning more about the tragic death in police custody of Derek Williams, and seeking justice for him.

Joint statement from Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman José G. Pérez and Alderman Ashanti Hamilton
Press Release

Joint statement from Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman José G. Pérez and Alderman Ashanti Hamilton

Today’s announcement that Pierce Elementary School and La Escuela Fratney have been chosen as GE Foundation Demonstration Schools is great news.

Statement from Mayor Tom Barrett Concerning the Public Service Commission Ruling on the Milwaukee Streetcar Project
Press Release

Statement from Mayor Tom Barrett Concerning the Public Service Commission Ruling on the Milwaukee Streetcar Project

We agree with comments made by two of the three Public Service Commission (PSC) members that the Streetcar project is an exercise of the City’s police power, and that it is a benefit to the public’s health, safety and welfare.

U.S. Attorney’s insight needed in Williams death investigation
Press Release

U.S. Attorney’s insight needed in Williams death investigation

We are respectfully requesting that the office of the U.S. Attorney conduct an investigation into the case of Derek Williams, who died last year while in the custody of Milwaukee police.

Four More Years

Four More Years

The Common Council approves the reappointment of DCD Commissioner Rocky Marcoux for another term.

Neighborhood Town Hall set for Tuesday
Press Release

Neighborhood Town Hall set for Tuesday

Milwaukee Alderman Nik Kovac invites residents to share concerns and hear from local officials at a Neighborhood Town Hall meeting the evening of Tuesday, October 2nd 2012.

The Saga Continues

The Saga Continues

Once again, a city committee approved -- after disagreeing -- the reappointment of DCD Commissioner Rocky Marcoux.

Council members set for NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner
Press Release

Council members set for NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner

The theme of this year’s event is “Reform, Restore, Refocus: Your Power, Your Decision-VOTE.”

Tragedy in Oak Creek
Press Release

Tragedy in Oak Creek

Joint Statement from Members of the Common Council

This is the End, Beautiful Friend

This is the End, Beautiful Friend

Some thoughts on the bitter end of Sydney Hih.

City health benefits now cover all families
Press Release

City health benefits now cover all families

The Common Council voted Tuesday to extend health and dental benefits eligibility to registered domestic partners of city retirees and to the children of all registered domestic partners.

A Really Rocky Road

A Really Rocky Road

Opponents succeed in delaying the reappointment of DCD Commissioner Rocky Marcoux, sending a message to Marcoux and Mayor Barrett.

Common Council approves Milwaukee Jobs Act initiative
Press Release

Common Council approves Milwaukee Jobs Act initiative

The Common Council today approved creation of the Milwaukee Jobs Act -Transitional Jobs Program – a multifaceted effort to create employment opportunities for city young people and job seekers from areas of the city that have been particularly hard-hit economically.

Not Too Rocky a Road.  So Far.

Not Too Rocky a Road. So Far.

DCD Commissioner Rocky Marcoux's reappointment won committee approval, but what will the full council do?

New Bike Transit System?

New Bike Transit System?

A city committee votes to support a system of bike-sharing kiosks. Other cities have cut auto traffic this way.

Plan Commission Recommends Approval of Five-story Apartment Building

Plan Commission Recommends Approval of Five-story Apartment Building

Green features garner support for apartment project from Alderman and neighborhood.

Bike-sharing program pedals to Public Works Committee
Press Release

Bike-sharing program pedals to Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will discuss a resolution Wednesday (July 11) to create a bicycle-sharing program in Milwaukee that if approved could start up in spring 2013.

One More Chance for the Sydney HIH

One More Chance for the Sydney HIH

Parliamentary procedure buys the Sydney HIH a few more days.

Neighborhood walk-through Thursday
Press Release

Neighborhood walk-through Thursday

Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs will be having a joint neighborhood walk-through to address neighborhood safety concerns with Alderman Nik Kovac on Thursday, July 5, starting at 2 p.m.

Neighborhood walk-through Thursday
Press Release

Neighborhood walk-through Thursday

Alderman Nik Kovac will be having a joint neighborhood walk-through to address neighborhood safety concerns with Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs on Thursday, July 5, starting at 2 p.m. outside Club Timbuktu, 520 E. Center St.

Gordon Park July 4th Independence Day Celebration
Press Release

Gordon Park July 4th Independence Day Celebration

Make plans to attend tomorrow’s fun and festivities at Gordon Park at N. Humboldt Blvd. and E. Locust St.

Murphy’s Law: Rocky Road
Murphy’s Law

Rocky Road

Some aldermen want to dump DCD head Rocky Marcoux, but Mayor Barrett disagrees.

Festival & street closure information from Alderman Nik Kovac
Press Release

Festival & street closure information from Alderman Nik Kovac

The 12th Annual East Side Summer Soulstice Music Festival will take place Saturday, June 23 from noon to midnight(music ends at 11 p.m.).

Watching the Watchdog – Joint Statement from Members of the Common Council
Press Release

Watching the Watchdog – Joint Statement from Members of the Common Council

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s recent investigations into the police department have misled the public about important facts relevant to the safety of our community.

Murphy’s Law: The War Against Chief Flynn
Murphy’s Law

The War Against Chief Flynn

Why is the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel trashing the city’s best police chief in decades?

New Zoning Would Allow Taller East Side Buildings

New Zoning Would Allow Taller East Side Buildings

In one of its "shortest meetings ever," the City Plan Commission recommended letting North Avenue rise higher.

Biking Takes Spotlight this Summer

Biking Takes Spotlight this Summer

Highlights include 76 miles of new or improved bike lanes, and a raised bike lane for Bay View.

East Library Gains Zoning Approval, Rest of District Held

East Library Gains Zoning Approval, Rest of District Held

Residents are still a little restive about it, but the East Side's buildings are likely to get a little higher, to judge by the results of today's City Plan Commission meeting.

Future of Transit Discussion at the top of the US Bank Center

Future of Transit Discussion at the top of the US Bank Center

If you care about transit in Milwaukee, or if you simply want the best view of the city available, come to the 40th floor of the US Bank Center next Monday night, April 16th from 5:30 until 8:00 for a cocktail hour and discussion on the future of transit in Milwaukee and how we move through the city.

Jackson St. Apartment Proposal Approved at Zoning Committee

Jackson St. Apartment Proposal Approved at Zoning Committee

Back for a second time, Dermond Property Investments' request for a change in zoning for the properties 1601 N. Jackson and 522 E. Pleasant, the former Joey's Restaurant location, from Local Business (LB2) to a Detailed Planned Development (DPD) was once again in front of the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Hines for Mayor, Coggs for Life, Thomas for 34%, and More City Politics
Eyes on Milwaukee

Hines for Mayor, Coggs for Life, Thomas for 34%, and More City Politics

Welcome to the seventh installment of Eyes on Milwaukee. This week the focus is all on City of Milwaukee elected officials following yesterday's election. I explore the likelihood that Willie Hines runs for Mayor, how the new Common Council will resemble the old Common Council, the wide disparity in vote totals between districts, Bob Donovan winning the war, the shocking number of votes Johnny Thomas got, and Spencer Coggs' new job.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Talgos being Mothballed, Bike Corrals Return, YP Week, and More
Eyes on Milwaukee

Talgos being Mothballed, Bike Corrals Return, YP Week, and More

Welcome to the fifth installment of Eyes on Milwaukee. This week we take a look at mothballing the new Talgo trainsets for the Amtrak Hiawatha line, the return of the bike corrals, Young Professional Week, free music from the Milwaukee Public Library, and more.

City Plan Commission Recommends Revised Jackson St. Apartment Building for Approval

City Plan Commission Recommends Revised Jackson St. Apartment Building for Approval

Dermond Property Investments' request for a change in zoning for the properties 1601 N. Jackson and 522 E. Pleasant, the former Joey's Restaurant location, from Local Business (LB2) to a Detailed Planned Development (DPD) was once again before the City Plan Commission. The proposal was required to go back before the City Plan Commission, because the number of rental units in the proposal had changed.

Zoning Committee Votes for Approval of MSOE Parking Garage

Zoning Committee Votes for Approval of MSOE Parking Garage

MSOE's $28 million, 750 stall parking garage proposal received approval at the February 22nd, 2012 meeting of the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee meeting.

The North End Phase Two Groundbreaking Photos

The North End Phase Two Groundbreaking Photos

A ceremonial groundbreaking took place at the corner of Pleasant and Water streets today for the Portrait and Silhouette buildings at The North End, collectively known as Phase Two of The North End. A number of public officials were on hand representing the large number of public funding sources required to get the project off the ground (or more aptly, in the ground) with the state of private financing for development.

East Library Redevelopment Update and Estimated Schedule

East Library Redevelopment Update and Estimated Schedule

A public meeting was held at Milwaukee Public Library's East Library last night to present updates and answer questions on East Library redevelopment proposal.

Riverwest private dorm recommended for denial by City Plan Commission

Riverwest private dorm recommended for denial by City Plan Commission

Trinitas Ventures' request for a change in zoning, from Industrial Light 2 to Detail Plan Development, was recommended for denial by the City Plan Commission at the February 6th, 2012 meeting.

Jackson Street Apartment Proposal Held at Committee

Jackson Street Apartment Proposal Held at Committee

Dermond Property Investments' request for a change in zoning for the properties 1601 N. Jackson and 522 E. Pleasant St. from Local Business (LB2) to a Detailed Planned Development (DPD) was held at today's Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee.

HSI/WiRED Properties Proposal Picked for East Library

HSI/WiRED Properties Proposal Picked for East Library

The Milwaukee Public Library Board of Trustee’s Building and Development Committee met at the East Library on Wednesday night to hear final proposals from the three respondents to the East Library Redevelopment RFP. Following a closed session for deliberations, the Building and Development Committee voted to move the proposal from HSI Properties forward to the full Library Board.

HMI Doors Open 2011 Recommendations

HMI Doors Open 2011 Recommendations

Imagine this for a moment -- you’re a kid in a candy store, and as things go, this candy store is opening for the first time ever and only for one weekend. Oh gosh. You’ve dreamed of this cornucopia of confections so many times before, you know every name and shiny wrapper in the store... but your eyes are bigger than your stomach. How can you pick just a choice few, knowing your slight allowance won’t let you have all that you want? It’s the best and worst kind of agony.

Mixed-Use East Library Proposals Meet the Neighbors

Mixed-Use East Library Proposals Meet the Neighbors

Wednesday night, Alderman Nik Kovac held a public meeting to allow feedback to be voiced regarding the three proposed alternatives for the redevelopment of the one-story East Library into a mixed-use facility. The meeting was a follow-up to a meeting last November discussing the potential of issuing a request-for-proposal (RFP) for the redevelopment of the East Library site. Attendees at the meeting were provided with an update on the process and allowed to ask questions about the process and proposals. The predictable East Side public meeting questions were aired, but which, if any, of the proposals will be selected?

MSOE Parking Garage Proposal Needs Work

MSOE Parking Garage Proposal Needs Work

Talks between M&I, MSOE, and Milwaukee County regarding MSOE's proposed parking garage in the Park East have dragged on for months, and it is likely because of a new detail that makes a marginal project into a bad project.

John Norquist Milwaukee Tour – Congress for the New Urbanism

John Norquist Milwaukee Tour – Congress for the New Urbanism

One day before the start of the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU) 19th annual conference in Madison, former Mayor and current CNU President & CEO John Norquist returned to Milwaukee with a number of his former deputies to offer a tour of many of the urban projects started during his tenure as mayor.

Marriott Approved. Greenwich Park Apartments Approved

Marriott Approved. Greenwich Park Apartments Approved

Two controversial development projects received key approvals at the January 19th, 2011 meeting of the Common Council.

Greenwich Park Apartments Zoning Change Approved by Committee

Greenwich Park Apartments Zoning Change Approved by Committee

Mercy Housing Lakefront's $8.5 million Greenwich Park Apartments project received approval at the January 11th, 2011 meeting of the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee.

Mercy Housing’s East Side Proposal is Recommended for Approval by City Plan Commission

Mercy Housing’s East Side Proposal is Recommended for Approval by City Plan Commission

Mercy Housing Lakefront's Greenwich Park Apartments proposal was recommended for approval at the December 6th, 2010 meeting of the City Plan Commission.

Mercy Housing Lakefront Presents Updated Design to East Side Residents (Renderings)

Mercy Housing Lakefront Presents Updated Design to East Side Residents (Renderings)

At last night's East Side town hall meeting Mercy Housing Lakefront presented a further refined design for an $8.5 million apartment building to be constructed at the corner of N. Farwell Ave. and Thomas St. on Milwaukee's East Side.

A Mixed-Use Library to Replace the East Library?

A Mixed-Use Library to Replace the East Library?

Alderman Nik Kovac, whose district includes the East Library on 1910 E. North Avenue, held a public meeting on November 11th to solicit feedback on the proposal of converting the one-story, single-use library into a mixed-use building.The meeting, which was held at the East Library meeting room, attracted a standing-room only crowd, and included representatives from the Library Board (of which Kovac is a member), the Department of City Development, and the Mayor's office

Photo Gallery: Group Unveils Temporary Public Art on Capitol Drive
Photo Gallery

Group Unveils Temporary Public Art on Capitol Drive

To fill the gap between the site's multi-year transformation from brownfield to productive industrial space, the 30th Street Industrial Corridor Corporation and Business Improvement District #37 invited IN:SITE to create art installations that generate interest in the area.

Public Safety Committee Approves New Milwaukee Bike Plan

Public Safety Committee Approves New Milwaukee Bike Plan

The Bicycle Master Plan was presented to the Public Safety Committee at the September 16th, 2010 meeting.

Milwaukee to Contract Nationally Recognized Transit Expert

Milwaukee to Contract Nationally Recognized Transit Expert

At the May 4th, 2010 meeting of the Common Council, Alderman Bauman brought forward an item that would allow the City of Milwaukee to enter into a contract with an expert consultant, Jeffery Boothe, for the purpose of facilitating the next steps of the Milwaukee Streetcar project.

Milwaukee River Greenway Overlay Zone Approved by City Plan Commission

Milwaukee River Greenway Overlay Zone Approved by City Plan Commission

At the May 3rd, 2010 City Plan Commission meeting the proposed Milwaukee River Greenway Overlay District was brought for the commission for approval. This overlay district would impact 370 properties, these are properties that property lines are within approximately 50 feet of the river bluff, of which 70 to 80% is existing parkland.

The Moderne Gains Common Council Approval for City Loans

The Moderne Gains Common Council Approval for City Loans

The Moderne development received approval for $9.3 millions in loans from the City of Milwaukee that led developer Rick Barrett had been seeking.

Recall?  I don’t think so.

Recall? I don’t think so.

It seems every month there is another recall proposed.

Common Council Creates Streetcar Committee

Common Council Creates Streetcar Committee

The proposed snow and ice fee increase, the furloughs, the possible use of eminent domain for economic development, and the formation of a streetcar committee were topics of interest at this Common Council meeting.

Downer Avenue Development Project Heats Up Again

Downer Avenue Development Project Heats Up Again

This past Monday night a public meeting was held to discuss possible streetscape improvements to Downer Avenue.

Contentious M.O.R.E Debate Continues

Contentious M.O.R.E Debate Continues

The controversial M.O.R.E ordinance was the primary item of discussion at this meeting of the Common Council.  This ordinance proposed new requirements related to hiring City of Milwaukee residents, the utilization of emerging small businesses, and the paying of prevailing wages for all City of Milwaukee projects and private developments that receive $1 million or more in TIF funding.  It was widely believed that this ordinance was going to be put to a vote of the full Common Council today, which made Alderman Michael Murphy‘s motion to send this file to the Finance & Personnel Committee all that more contentious.  Through the discussion it became evident that this file had originally been scheduled to appear the Finance & Personnel Committee but was removed at the last minute because of a legal technicality.  Immediately prior to the Common Council meeting a fiscal note that indicated the ordinance would require a number of full-time employees to manage the new programs arrived which made the motion to send it back to committee both legal and appropriate.  Although he indicated he would likely support the ordinance Alderman Murhpy argued that “basic issues, and basic questions are just not being addressed” and that “one needs to take the time to do it right.” At first the sponsors of the legislation were surprised and took the motion as a delaying tactic.  They argued that the process had been fully transparent and didn’t require any further delay.  Alderman Ashanti Hamilton stated that “I think the public has been engaged and involved in the creation of this ordinance.”  During the discussion Alderman Nik Kovac piped in saying “I believe in process, I campaigned on process”, but he then indicated he didn’t believe sending it back to committee would change anything.  In fact he said “the controversy today will be the same in 21 days.”  Alderman Joe Davis fired away at the implication that not enough questions had been asked or that there wasn’t enough transparency to the process contending that “I made a point to schedule a special meeting to achieve transparency.” Initial supporters of the motion argued more questions needed to be asked and that it would be appropriate to send it back to the Finance & Personnel Committee.  Specifically, Alderman Terry Witkowski supported the motion in an attempt to gather more information saying “I do support sending this back to committee, this was a constantly evolving piece of legislation.”  In an attempt to bring a bit of levity to the debate Alderman Jim Bohl joked “I’m feeling a Rodney King moment, why can’t we just all get along here?” Then he defended Alderman Murphy’s motives and attempted to call the question.  Oddly on this specific motion the ability to call the question isn’t an allowed so the debate continued.  Alderman Murphy responded to the criticisms by stating “I do feel I was attacked unfairly” and he again attempted to clarify his position stating that “the fact is somebody, literally two minutes before the meeting handing you […]

M.O.R.E. Ordinance Approved by Committee

M.O.R.E. Ordinance Approved by Committee

The Milwaukee Opportunities for Restoring Employment ordinance was the primary reason behind this special meeting of the Community & Economic Development Committee.  The ordinance intends to increase the required percentage of City of Milwaukee residents hired to work on city projects and development projects receiving more than $1 million in TIF assistance.  Additionally it mandated a prevailing wage to be paid for these projects and set a higher Emerging Business Enterprise (EBE ) utilization level as well.  The proposed ordinance brought out a large group of both supporters and opponents.  Alderman Ashanti Hamilton attempted to frame the discussion early on saying that “there are many people who may come to the table and say this is the wrong time to do something like this” and indicated that he felt the time was right to move on this ordinance.  He added that “I submit to you that the price has already been too great”.  Alderman Nik Kovac explained that “in the end this is not a philosophical question, it is a practical question” and lent his support saying that “I think we have a document that comes close to being a win win win”.  An extensive list of developers and real estate professional spoke in opposition to the ordinance though primarily the development community opposed the ordinance because of the prevailing wage mandate. Richard Wanta, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Underground Contractors Association, spoke in opposition of the project saying that “the same city has chased us out of town for decades”.  He went on to point out that there is currently only one major water and sewer contractor in the city, so once this passes that contractor is especially likely to get all of the available work in the area because of the new regulations. Dick Lincoln, Senior Vice President of the Mandel Group, started his remarks saying that “the camel is a horse that is designed by committee” indicating the ordinance wasn’t quite right but went on to say that “we’re almost there”.  He explained that generally he felt the ordinance was a positive but that the prevailing wage requirement was problematic.  He argued that it works against minority hiring, as smaller companies often compete on price, and that this would add substantially to the cost of the project. Barry Mandel, President of the Mandel Group, pointed to the PERC requirements in the Park East and tied them to the fact that development has been non-existent in the county owned portion of the Park East.  He then pointed to The Brewery and The North End projects as two projects that have been moving forward because they utilizing non-prevailing wages. Greg Uhen, President of Eppstein Uhen Architects, spoke out against the proposed ordinance saying that “my concern is that it will reduce the number of opportunities that come to the city” and that he felt “this is another roadblock, another reason for them not to come”. The line of members in support of the ordinance were at least as lengthy […]

Neighborhood Group Pushes Chapter 17

Neighborhood Group Pushes Chapter 17

Although only a few development projects were on this commission meeting’s agenda the most insightful item was the presentation of the UWM Neighborhood Plan by the Universities Neighborhoods Association (UNA).  Jeffrey Jordan presented the groups findings and laid out a few neighborhood issues.  The group wants UWM to acknowledge that the “sudden growth of the university” has lead to problems such as overcrowding of the neighborhood.  He also stated their desire to see the implementation of Chapter 17 which would penalizes students at UWM for off campus problems.  Additionally, UNA wants future dorms to be planned with the neighbors and clearly doesn’t want to see dorms built at the Columbia Hospital site. Alderman Nik Kovac spoke about UWM”s master planning program and stated that UWM’s plan to expand in Wauwatosa was a “terrible idea”.  This update showed the ongoing difficulty of relations on the East Side between UWM and the neighborhood and also highlighted the City of Milwaukee’s efforts to encourage UWM to expand in downtown Milwaukee.

Committee Plans to Lobby UWM to Expand Downtown

Committee Plans to Lobby UWM to Expand Downtown

In April 2008 Alderman D'Amato, as one of his last acts in office, brought forward a resolution that stated the City of Milwaukee's position that the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee should locate its College of Engineering and Applied Science, as well asUWM's other satellite campuses, within the City of Milwaukee.

New Land Enterprises’ Kenilworth Apartment Development Informational Meeting

New Land Enterprises’ Kenilworth Apartment Development Informational Meeting

A meeting was held to discuss New Land Enterprises proposed apartment building for the corner of Kenilworth and Farwell.

East Side Apartment Proposal Held by Committee

East Side Apartment Proposal Held by Committee

New Land Enterprises was before the committee requesting a change in zoning to construct a 5-story apartment building to be located on North Farwell Avenue and East Kenilworth.

UWM Dorm Traffic, Transit & Parking Plan

UWM Dorm Traffic, Transit & Parking Plan

This was the third of four meetings being held to discuss Mandel Group's proposed UWM resident hall that would be located on the former Hometown gas station site.

Committee Requests Federal Government Not Re-certify SEWRPC

Committee Requests Federal Government Not Re-certify SEWRPC

Alderman Bauman lead the efforts to bring forward a resolution that would have the City of Milwaukee request that Milwaukee County withdraw from the Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission ("SEWRPC").

Combined Committee Approves 26-story Tower

Combined Committee Approves 26-story Tower

This meeting was the much anticipated combined City Plan Commission ("CPC") and Historic Preservation Commission ("HPC") meeting regarding New Land Enterprises' development proposal for the Goll Mansion site.

UWM Dorm Site Faces Little Opposition

UWM Dorm Site Faces Little Opposition

Last Thursday night, residents of Milwaukee's lower east side gathered at Holy Rosary Church to discuss the final of three proposals selected by the UWM Real Estate Foundation. The meeting began much like the two previous had, with the developer (Phelan Development) making a presentation on the plan, followed by a short bit by the architect (Jim Shields in this case), and representatives from UWM talking over some basic logistics and facts. After which Vice Chancellor for University Relations and Communications Tom Luljak straps on his bullet proof vest, and questions from the audience are allowed.

UWM Faces Slight Opposition

UWM Faces Slight Opposition

This meeting was appropriately held at the Urban Ecology Center. It was appropriate because one of the key opposition concerns around the Hometown site was its location along the Milwaukee River. Although the location was different many of the same citizens were attendance.

Hot Meeting About Potential UWM Dorm Site

Hot Meeting About Potential UWM Dorm Site

The Maryland Avenue School played host to a tension-filled meeting to discuss one of three proposals for the location of the new UWM dorm. The proposal on the table was the nearby Prospect Mall parking lot location proposed by Boulder Ventures.

UWM Dorm is a Hot Topic Among 3rd District Neighbors

UWM Dorm is a Hot Topic Among 3rd District Neighbors

On July 29th a meeting of 3rd district residents was held to discuss the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's ("UWM") recent Request for Proposal ("RFP") to build a new student dorm with 500 to 700 beds.

27-Story Tower on Prospect Faces Opposition – But Why?

27-Story Tower on Prospect Faces Opposition – But Why?

This plan would add $60 million to the City of Milwaukee's tax base, enhance the skyline, bring new residents to the city and save the Goll Mansion.

Committtee Votes to Freeze Funds for WestPointe Commons

Committtee Votes to Freeze Funds for WestPointe Commons

The final two appointees to Business Improvement District #41 (Downer Ave.) were approved by committee today. Andie Zacher and Brett Grasse were added to the newly expanded board bring the total to seven members. Brett Grass from Lighthouse Development expressed that he has a “vested interest in the shopping district staying vibrant” and that his experience at Lighthouse Development should be of value to the board.. These appointments were approved and will now go before the full Common Council. Also of note was the appointed of first term Alderman Nik Kovac to the Arts Board. He expressed his desire to sit on the Arts Board by saying “I look forward to helping the arts and helping the city at the same time. He conveyed a strong belief that the arts are not only beneficial to the quality of life within the city but also to the economic development of the city. This appointment was approved and will now go before the full Common Council. The last item on the agenda was resolution 080293 which saw a vigorous discussion over the problematic development effort at 27th and Wells St. known as WestPointe Commons. First funded in November 2001 the project has yet to be completed and has spent almost $1 million in public funds. The motion before the committee was to freeze access to public funds until an audit was completed which would determine what went wrong and if the project should go forward. Former Alderman Paul Henningsen spoke on behalf of the project making a passionate appeal to allow the project to continue. He argued that despite its past issues, it is now close to completion and in combination with other projects in the area it could have a catalytic effect. In the end the committee voted to approve the resolution, essentially freezing public funds, which will now go before the full Common Council.

Common Council Expands BID Board

Common Council Expands BID Board

To begin the proceedings Don Smiley the CEO of Summerfest gave a presentation regarding this year’s Summerfest during which he pointed out two items of interest. First, they have demolished the Harley Davidson Roadhouse and constructed a new stage that will open on June 26th. They’ve opened up that stage to the lakeside and created a 3,000 square foot deck so the general public at large can enjoy the lake front while enjoying the music. Secondly, Smiley made it clear that part of Summerfest’s marketing would be to tie the marketing to the City of Milwaukee. These improvements should be applauded and hopefully Summerfest will continue to improve the grounds and connection with the City of Milwaukee. The first items taken up at the Common Council meeting were to complete unfinished business from the previous cycle. Although all five appointments had been held at the encouragement of Alderman Nik Kovac specifically included in this was the appointments of Boris Gokhman and Joel Lee to BID #41. The delay provided time to expand the board from five to seven members and with the history between New Land Enterprises and Alderman Kovac it at least gives the appearance that this board expansion was done to dilute the influence that New Land Enterprises may have on BID #41. The Common Council also approved resolution 080121 which would accept funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar America Cities 2008 grant. The City of Milwaukee is one of twelve cities selected for this grant which will be used to provide training for solar panel installation and funds for educational materials to help promote solar technologies. Alderman Tony Zielinski sponsored and encouraged these efforts and it is clear this is just the beggining of his attempts to “green” the City of Milwaukee.

Committtee Approves North End’s Job Training Plan

Committtee Approves North End’s Job Training Plan

Dick Lincoln from the Mandel Group presented resolution 071618 which is the job training program portion of The North End development that receives funding from TIF No. 48. He explained that it would be “a little bit different than traditional workforce development” in that in focuses more on mentoring and coaching of emerging businesses to “take them to the next level.” Specifically, the program will help emerging business develop business and management skills so these firms can enter into larger contracts and participate in The North End project. This resolution was approved by the committee and will go before the full Common Council. Resolution 080209 changed the operating plan and structure of Business Improvement District No. 41 which represents the Downer Avenue business district. The changes would enlarged the board from five to seven members and it would adjust various line items within the proposed operating plan to allow the BID greater flexibility in their future operations. Although this resolution seems inoucous enough it gives the appearance as though these changes are connected to New Lan Enterprises’ controvsional re-development efforts on Downer Avenue. It appears this way because while Alderman Nik Kovac has worked to expand BID No. 41 both Boris Gokhman and Joel Lee have had their appointments to BID No. 41 held in committee. This resolution was approved by the committee and will go before the full Common Council.

Nik Kovac Getting First Test From Riverwest Resident Group

Nik Kovac Getting First Test From Riverwest Resident Group

The Riverwest Neighborhood Association is going to test Alderman Nik Kovac early in his term.

Dump Kovac Before He Gets Started

Dump Kovac Before He Gets Started

100_5801 Originally uploaded by RNA Official Photo Site Dan Knauss wrote up an excellent analysis of the 3rd District Alderman race, which after the primary is down to Patrick Flaherty and Nik Kovac. If you’re a 3rd district resident or interested in Milwaukee politics, Dan’s article is definitely worth your time to read.