Alderman Michael Murphy of District 10 on Milwaukee’s West Side, was first elected at age 27 in 1989, and is the city’s longest-serving alderman.
Michael Murphy is a lifelong West Side resident, a member of the Gesu Parish, and the first son of Irish immigrants to be born in America, his official biography reveals.
Murphy attended Hi Mount and St. Catherine’s elementary schools and graduated from Milwaukee’s Madison High School in 1980. In 1986, he earned a B.S. degree in Geological Sciences from UW-Madison and he has since completed graduate course work toward a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. To pay his way through college, he worked in the Milwaukee Public Museum’s Geology Department and as a lab technician at Great Lakes Research Institute researching the effects of heavy metal contaminants in the Fox River Valley.
Murphy has been reelected six times. Since April 2004 he has served as chair of the Common Council’s budget-writing Finance and Personnel Committee. He is also vice chair of the Steering and Rules Committee and a member of the Council’s Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee.
Murphy has served on many different boards over the years. He currently serves as chair of both the Investment Committee of the Employees’ Retirement System and the Milwaukee Arts Board. Murphy describes himself as a long-time supporter of the local arts.
In 2012, Murphy received the “Common Ground Hero Award” from the Southeastern Wisconsin branch of the non-profit Common Ground group. He was cited for his work in helping the group fight the foreclosure crisis in Milwaukee. Murphy worked with Common Ground to secure $33.8 million from five major banks (Bank of America, JP Morgan Chase, Deutsche Bank, US Bank and Wells Fargo) to help rescue homeowners facing foreclosures.
Murphy also received the Arts Leadership Award from the String Academy of UW-Milwaukee for his “long term dedication to the importance of the arts in the lives of Milwaukee’s citizens and children.”
Murphy, along with the Common Council, has supported 180 Degree Properties, LLC to fight unemployment.
Murphy met with Aurora Health Care officials out of concern that Sinai Medical Center might close its emergency department.
Seeing a growing need for supportive housing for Milwaukee’s at-risk populations, Alderman Murphy brought to life the Housing Trust Fund Task Force in 2006, which has helped fund numerous housing projects throughout the community.
Murphy was among nine aldermen who criticized the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel for misleading the public about how the police department reported crime data.
Campaign Finance Reports
2021 - January Continuing - No Contributions
2020 - January Continuing - $300 - 1 contributions
2019 - January Continuing - $72 - 1 contributions
2018 - July Continuing - Report Not in System
2016 - July Continuing - $26,702 - 202 contributions
2016 - Pre-Election - $1,600 - 5 contributions
2016 - January Continuing - $850 - 4 contributions
Photos
Content referencing Michael Murphy
Council Retreats On For-Profit College
Opponents call Arizona College of Nursing predatory. Committee decides to allow zoning change for it.
Jun 4th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneCommon Ground Gets National Attention
Group’s battle with city housing authority becoming embarrassing for Milwaukee.
May 28th, 2024 by Bruce MurphyDon Smiley Paid $3.3 Million in 2022
Summerfest boss has collected $9.9 million in 6 years for running tax-exempt charity.
May 20th, 2024 by Bruce MurphyChoice of Committee Chairs Criticized
Council president Jose Perez 'shut all four Black women members out,' Ald. Pratt complains.
Apr 29th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneNew Council Most Diverse In Milwaukee History
The largest number of Black, women and LBGTQ+ members in history. Meet all 15.
Apr 15th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneCity’s New Historic District On Hold
But Common Council approved historic protection for Berrada building.
Apr 10th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Bids Farewell To Alders Murphy, Borkowski and Rainey
Trio leaves, but not before singing, doing impersonations and issuing a challenge.
Apr 9th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneOver Objections and a Death Wish, Committee Endorses New Historic District
Full council will render its decision on April 9.
Apr 4th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneGratitude and optimism on cusp of new Common Council term
Statement of Alderman Lamont Westmoreland April 4, 2024
Apr 4th, 2024 by Ald. Lamont WestmorelandSharlen Moore Wins Race To Replace Ald. Michael Murphy
Youth violence prevention leader is new westside alderwoman.
Apr 2nd, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneMeet the Candidates For City Office
And read the analysis of each race and bios for each candidate.
Mar 21st, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee Punts On For-Profit College Approval
But without approval, Arizona College of Nursing issue seems likely headed to court.
Mar 14th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneVacant Building Would Become Gaming Center
Building at 16th and Walnut would see new life as "PrimeTime Gaming"
Mar 14th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneCavalier Johnson Is All In On Growing Milwaukee
Annual State of the City speech places growth plan front and center.
Mar 4th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneHow A Billboard Saved A Vacant Building
Printing business will relocate to vacant, city-owned building on Appleton and Burleigh.
Feb 26th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneNew Plan Would Save Former Acapulco Restaurant Building
And a new brunch restaurant would fill the popular restaurant's space.
Feb 22nd, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Will Pay More Than $60,000 To Settle Tearman Spencer Harassment Claim
Council moves to approve settlement while Spencer seeks reelection.
Feb 21st, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneEitel Cancels Plans For Vel Phillips Plaza Cafe After Council Questions, Public Opposition
After Milwaukee Turners "pilloried" Eitel on Tuesday, things appear to have snowballed behind the scenes.
Feb 2nd, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Will Build 45 Traffic Calming Projects in 2024
'Reckless drivers, they infuriate me,' says Mayor Cavalier Johnson.
Jan 30th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneCity Won’t Fully Regulate Airbnb In Milwaukee
Mayor's staff recommends letting status quo stand, council wants more discussion.
Jan 30th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Approves Raises For Elected Officials, Administrators
Vote was 9-6. Elected officials will get 15% hike, non-elected leaders even more.
Jan 17th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneElected Officials Pay Hike Wins First Endorsement, Opposition
Multi-million dollar proposal also includes raises for dozens of department, division leaders.
Jan 10th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneCity Expects to Take Northridge In Foreclosure, Demolish Mall
'Checkmate' says alderman of mall owners missing the foreclosure redemption date.
Jan 9th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneElection Commission Boots Griffin From Ballot
Griffin vows appeal, and warns that those involved will 'probably go to prison.'
Jan 9th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneMayor Vetoes Controversial Insurance Partnership
Council narrowly endorsed idea, only for Mayor Cavalier Johnson to kill initiative.
Dec 15th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneIs Milwaukee Being Sold An Insurance Scam?
Or is exclusive contract with company offering water and sewer line warranties a good deal?
Nov 29th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneStatement on the Confirmation of Jezamil Arroyo-Vega as the Commissioner of Neighborhood Services
From members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Lamont Westmoreland, Alderperson Jonathan Brostoff, Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr., Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Andrea M. Pratt, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderwoman Larresa Taylor, and Alderman Khalif J. Rainey
Nov 21st, 2023 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCouncil Overrides Mayor’s Veto, Adopts 2024 Milwaukee Budget
Mayor Johnson attempted to lower property tax increase using federal grant.
Nov 21st, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneMayor’s Veto Reduces Property Tax
Cavalier Johnson issues single veto, replacing small tax hike with federal grant money.
Nov 14th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneHow Will Council Handle Scathing Report on City Attorney?
Deputy city attorney's moonlighting and Tearman Spencer's lax oversight at issue.
Nov 14th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneFight At City Hall Over Control of Board of Zoning Appeals
Council wants board to be independent of administration, but responsive to aldermanic input.
Nov 8th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneFull Legalization of Scooters Ends Up In City Budget
But it doesn't mean it immediately goes into effect.
Nov 3rd, 2023 by Jeramey Jannene2024 Milwaukee Budget Increases Services, Taxes
New sales tax allows city to avoid drastic cuts, but comes at a cost.
Nov 3rd, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCommon Council votes to reauthorize anti-displacement housing policy
Nov 1st, 2023 by Ald. Milele Coggs
Longest Tenured Council Member, Michael Murphy, Not Seeking Reelection
But he could run for Comptroller. First elected in 1989, Murphy announces he won't run for reelection.
Oct 30th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneTentative Deal Would Salvage Milwaukee’s Deconstruction Program
Northcott Neighborhood House could step in to do work for long-delayed program.
Oct 25th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Might Hold Up Mayor’s Changes To Zoning Board
At issue is new chair, two new appointments and oversight by Department of Administration.
Oct 25th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneBill Would Allow New Bars To Offer Indoor Cigar, Pipe Smoking
City of Milwaukee could support the bill, but raised questions over regulation.
Oct 19th, 2023 by Sophie BolichCouncil Wants New Deal, Says Convention Center ‘Outsmarted’ City
No revenue sharing payments to city expected for next two years under 2020 deal.
Oct 16th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Wants More Reckless Drivers Towed
United council backs state law change. But proposal could die in Legislature.
Oct 16th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneNew Housing Center For Those Recovering From Substance Abuse
Wisconsin Community Services to build project near W. Capitol Drive.
Oct 15th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Delays Housing Authority Crackdown To January 1
Delay due to uncertainty how many building inspectors will be needed.
Oct 10th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneMayor Johnson Backs Pay Hikes For Elected Officials, Including Him
Raises for 81 employees defended by mayor's chief of staff in exclusive interview.
Oct 9th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneAfter IKON Hotel Issues, Council Moves To Assert More Control of TIF Districts
City has foregone $540,000 in interest payments at discretion of administration.
Oct 6th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil, Residents Seek Solutions For Housing Authority Woes
Common Ground's complaints concern city officials, but can they fix problems?
Sep 26th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneStatement on stadium financing package proposal
From Common Council members: José G. Pérez, Marina Dimitrijevic, JoCasta Zamarripa, Michael J. Murphy, Lamont Westmoreland, Mark A. Borkowski, and Scott Spiker
Sep 19th, 2023 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCity Evacuates 27th Street Building Over Safety Concerns
It's expected to be months before residents can move back in.
Sep 12th, 2023 by Jeramey Jannene576-Unit Bay View Apartment Complex Wins Key Approval
Bear Development seeks to start construction, but what about environmental remediation?
Sep 12th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCourt Blocks Judges’ Quick Termination of Court Alternatives Program
But exactly why two judges pursued terminating decades-old JusticePoint partnership is unclear.
Jul 31st, 2023 by Jonmaesha Beltran and Devin BlakeCouncil Members Want Better Pay For Museum Food Service Workers
Zoning vote could hinge on oft-overlooked city policy.
Jul 27th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Demands Control of Lobbying, Despite Mayoral Pushback
Mayor and council president at impasse, council set to take more control.
Jul 24th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCommon 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.
Jul 11th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneE. North Ave. Apartments Moving Forward
Council committee endorses land sale, zoning change, TIF for long-sought development.
Jul 6th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneRusty Bolts Will Cost City $50,000
Plus: City settles lawsuit with McDonald's franchisee and reduces Hal Leonard's property taxes.
Jul 6th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneJoint Statement on SCOTUS college admissions ruling
From all members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Milele A. Coggs, Andrea M. Pratt, Mark Chambers, Jr., Jonathan Brostoff, Robert J. Bauman, Lamont Westmoreland, Khalif J. Rainey, JoCasta Zamarripa, Larresa Taylor, Michael J. Murphy, Mark A. Borkowski, José G. Pérez, Scott Spiker, Marina Dimitrijevic, and Russell W. Stamper, II
Jun 30th, 2023 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCouncil Committee Endorses 2% Sales Tax
And blasts state policy restrictions while insisting tax is far from a 'Milwaukee bailout.'
Jun 26th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCity employees asked for ideas to generate new revenue
Statement from members of the Common Council: Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Andrea M. Pratt, Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr., Alderman Lamont Westmoreland, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman Larresa Taylor, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Jonathan Brostoff, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa
Jun 26th, 2023 by Milwaukee Common CouncilDon Smiley’s Latest Paycheck Was $991,154
Summerfest boss has collected $6.56 million in five years for running tax exempt charity.
Jun 21st, 2023 by Bruce MurphyCity Could Regulate Airbnb, Other Services
Short-term rentals have proliferated beyond Downtown, but no public database of who is participating exists.
Jun 15th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Will Ban Most New Vape Shops
City zoning code change aims to deter teens from using tobacco.
Jun 14th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Has Very Ambitious Climate and Jobs Plan
Alderwoman Dimitrijevic and ECO director Erick Shambarger seek to transform the city.
Jun 13th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneMunicipal Court Cancels Alternatives Contract, Sparks Controversy
Opponents say the change could hurt vulnerable defendants, increase incarceration.
Jun 13th, 2023 by Jeramey JannenePolice Settlement Will Cost Millions Less Than Expected
Plus: costs grow in claim against Tearman Spencer and a firefighter conspiracy defense.
Jun 12th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneAssessment Error Costs Milwaukee $750,000
AT&T building was given improper tax bill after 2021 sale. Whoops.
May 30th, 2023 by Jeramey JannenePotato-Focused Restaurant Planned For Historic Schlitz Tavern
Potato Heads will open at 27th and Lisbon.
May 23rd, 2023 by Jeramey Jannene25-Story Tower Wins Crucial Endorsement
High-end, 318-unit apartment complex would replace parking lot on N. Farwell Ave.
May 23rd, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneMPD Can Tow New Group of Repeat Reckless Drivers
City enacting its part of state law change. But how big of a loophole does the policy have?
May 11th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneConstruction Starts on Century City Park Expansion
Revamped Melvina Park at 29th and Melvina will nearly quadruple in size.
May 3rd, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneMATC Will Use Vacant Lot For Training Program
Partnership with city and We Energies will help train electrical line mechanics.
May 2nd, 2023 by Jeramey JannenePérez Shakes Up Council Committees
Changes after new members added: Ald. Scott Spiker gets his first gavel, Zamarripa loses hers.
Apr 25th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneWork Starts on Redeveloping 150 Vacant Homes
Homes MKE aims to create new homeowners, improve neighborhoods.
Apr 19th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneDid Brooks Exceed His Authority At Wisconsin Center?
CEO’s decision to remove art works raises questions about governance of public entity.
Apr 18th, 2023 by Bruce MurphyMilwaukee Could Ban TikTok
Security-driven decision could end free advertising medium for public library and other uses by city.
Apr 17th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneRevised Letter to Wisconsin Center District CEO Marty Brooks
Apr 11th, 2023 by Press Release
West Side Freeway-to-Boulevard Study Advances
City has first-of-its-kind formal role in study of 1.5-mile Highway 175.
Mar 27th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Strongly Supports Northwestern Mutual Deal
City would provide $30 million subsidy for $500 million tower redevelopment.
Mar 14th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneRuby’s Bagels Moving To Oklahoma Ave.
Owner buying vacant building on 11th and Oklahoma in the 'Crisol Corridor.'
Mar 14th, 2023 by Jeramey Jannene and Sophie BolichMilwaukee Sales Tax Expected As Separate Legislation, Outside of Budget
Republicans expected to strip Gov. Evers' proposal from budget, but might not kill proposal.
Mar 4th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Gets $2.5 Million In JUUL Settlement
E-cigarette maker was sued more than 5,000 times for its youth-focused marketing.
Mar 1st, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCommon Council approves settlement in youth e-cigarette lawsuit
Feb 28th, 2023 by Ald. Michael Murphy
Wisconsin Supreme Court ‘dark store’ decision a huge win for state’s taxpayers, municipalities
Statement from Milwaukee Common Council Members Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, and Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr.
Feb 23rd, 2023 by Ald. Scott SpikerCourt Strikes Down City’s Towing Policy
No more public filing of towing costs required of companies. But ruling allows drop fees.
Feb 21st, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneAnother Former Assistant City Attorney Files Discrimination Claim
Four former employees of City Attorney Tearman Spencer pursuing legal action against city.
Feb 20th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneArea residents invited to join Coffee with a Cop tomorrow
Feb 20th, 2023 by Ald. Michael Murphy
Local Officials Hope Lawsuit Settlement Funds Can Reduce Drug Overdoses
644 overdose deaths in county in 2021. 'We're finally getting some resources.'
Feb 13th, 2023 by Evan Casey$175,000 Settlement For Violent 2018 Arrest
Demetrious Lowe alleges police beat him after knocking him to the ground during mental health episode.
Feb 10th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil adopts file to bolster traffic calming installations
Feb 10th, 2023 by Ald. Michael Murphy
City Approves Funding For $37.2 Million Library Redevelopment
New MLK Library designed as community hub.
Feb 9th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneJoint Statement on Death of Milwaukee Police Officer
From Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr., Alderman Jonathan Brostoff, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II
Feb 7th, 2023 by Milwaukee Common CouncilNorthwestern Mutual To Create Second Glassy Tower With $500 Million Investment
Company will completely overhaul existing building, create pedestrian street and relocate Franklin employees to Downtown.
Feb 2nd, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCity Seeks To Limit New Vape Shops
But questions abound on the legality and strategy of any bans or limits.
Feb 1st, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneMaster Electrician Will Redevelop Building at 58th and Burleigh
Baron Hentz and BKH Electric have big plans for vacant, city-owned building.
Jan 31st, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCan Milwaukee Circuit Court Clear Backlog By 2024?
Chief judge expresses doubt, but progress is being made and hope remains.
Jan 26th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneBernadette Karanja Named Milwaukee’s Chief Equity Officer
Longtime city workforce leader is new CEO of improving racial and equity outcomes.
Jan 12th, 2023 by Jeramey Jannene25-Story Prospect Ave. Tower Headed For Approval
No opposition to revised design. Groundbreaking, construction could start this year.
Jan 11th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCity, County Will Study Merging Services
Assembly Speaker Robin Vos pushing for this as prerequisite for more shared revenue for Milwaukee.
Jan 11th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneNew Youth Prison Wins Key Endorsement
Despite objections from neighbors, zoning committee supports new facility on northwest side.
Jan 10th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCity Committee Overrules Historic Commission On Mitchell Street Project
Will full council allow demolition of 1895 building for new affordable housing project?
Jan 10th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneI-94 Expansion Public Comment Deadline Extended
State allowing public comment until Jan. 31. Opponents favor "Fix at Six" option.
Jan 6th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneLand Purchased For Downtown Brewery and Dog Park
Foxtown Brewery takes major step forward on Downtown project.
Jan 4th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneHelp keep our community safe amid harsh winter weather
Joint statement from: Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Jonathan Brostoff, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Common Council President José G. Pérez, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr. and Alderman Khalif J. Rainey
Dec 22nd, 2022 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCouncil approves 14 Housing Trust Fund projects
Grants totaling more than $10 million will create new homes, create jobs and help homeowners with needed repairs
Dec 13th, 2022 by Ald. Michael MurphyDeal On Affordable Housing Adds Bay View, Edison School Projects
Housing fund will back 14 projects, including Martin Luther King Library redevelopment.
Dec 13th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Members, DCD and Citizens Panel At Odds Over Affordable Housing
Confusion, disagreements over how to spend federal pandemic funds on housing projects.
Dec 7th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneFiserv’s Move Downtown Is About Attracting ‘Young, Diverse’ Workers
Council committee endorses complicated subsidy for Brookfield company's relocation.
Dec 6th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCity Creates Bronzeville Development Zone
To spur development, limit chain businesses. Plus: a recap of week's real estate news.
Dec 4th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneHousing Trust Fund projects selected, will go to Council for review
Housing Trust Fund grants totaling more than $8.8 million would create new homes, help the homeless, create jobs and help with homeowner repairs
Dec 1st, 2022 by Ald. Michael MurphyCity To Fund 12 Affordable Housing Projects
Using federal funds for everything from new apartments to blocking predatory landlords.
Nov 30th, 2022 by Jeramey JannenePerez Gives New Committee Assignments
Newly-elected alders get their first assignments. But others still doing double duty.
Nov 28th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Overrides Mayor Johnson’s First Vetoes
Actions finalize 2023 budget with no cuts to libraries or fire department.
Nov 22nd, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee Okays Carleton School Project
Despite complaints from neighbors, $18 million conversion of long-vacant school into 30 apartments approved.
Nov 15th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneFormer City Attorneys File Discrimination Claims
City will spend up $40,000 for outside counsel and could face future settlements.
Nov 14th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneYouth Correctional Facility Faces Obstacles
May be years before $42 million, northwest-side facility gets built, state Sen. Taylor says
Nov 12th, 2022 by Edgar MendezEight-lane I-94 East-West project proposal not in the best interest of area residents
Joint statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Robert J. Bauman
Nov 11th, 2022 by Ald. Michael MurphyMayor Vetoes Library, Fire Service Cut Restorations in 2023 Milwaukee Budget
In making first veto, Johnson offers compromise to Common Council.
Nov 11th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneMayor’s Office Adds ‘Vision Zero’ Czar
Newly-created position will coordinate citywide effort to eliminate traffic deaths.
Nov 8th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneAlderman Murphy sponsors budget amendments aimed at combatting reckless driving, boosting city parks
Nov 4th, 2022 by Ald. Michael Murphy
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.
Nov 4th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneDiscrimination Lawsuit Will Cost City $400,000
Council grumbles but okays settlement. 'A very bitter pill to swallow,' says Ald. Murphy.
Nov 1st, 2022 by Jeramey Jannene2022 City Christmas Tree hails from the 10th District
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy November 1, 2022
Nov 1st, 2022 by Ald. Michael MurphyMayor, Council At Odds Over How To Prepare For Fiscal Cliff
But there is unanimous agreement that city faces a looming crisis.
Oct 27th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Spending $1.5 Million On Lawsuits, Including Two Police Conduct Cases
And another $1.5 million in settlements is pending.
Oct 17th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneLibrary Poised To Cut Services At 5 Branches In 2023
Council debates what libraries and if service could be restored.
Oct 14th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneSenseless gun violence ends a much-loved 12-year-old’s journey before it truly gets started
Joint statement from all members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II
Oct 14th, 2022 by Milwaukee Common Council2023 Milwaukee Budget Includes $500,000 Protected Bike Lane Fund
But will council approve it?
Oct 12th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneWhat Two Fire Stations Will Milwaukee Fire Department Cut?
Or will an influx of Medicaid money stave off cut?
Oct 7th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneBusiness Incubator Planned for 52nd and Center
Entrepreneur-contractor-nurse would breathe new life into vacant building.
Oct 4th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneTreasurer Coggs Rejects Budget Cuts
Mayor's proposed budget eliminates temporary workers, could begin eliminating practice of paying taxes in person.
Oct 4th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee’s Credit Rating Cut
All three rating agencies have a negative outlook on cash-strapped city.
Sep 30th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneJuneteenth Now An Official City Holiday
Ald. Milele Coggs leads the charge for full city recognition after 2014 'halfway measure'.
Sep 26th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil votes to make Juneteenth an official city holiday
Sep 20th, 2022 by Ald. Milele Coggs
Resolution authorizes city opposition to potential We Energies rate increases
Sep 20th, 2022 by Ald. Bob Bauman
City Building New Street in Third Ward
New apartment building triggers long-desired extension of Corcoran Ave.
Sep 13th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee approves file advancing Homes MKE Program
Sep 13th, 2022 by Ald. Michael Murphy
Milwaukee Gets $18 Million Opioid Settlement
But overdoses, deaths and need for treatment continue to increase.
Aug 16th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneWhy Was Key City Leader Fired?
Some in community question ousting of Office of Violence Prevention director Arnitta Holliman.
Aug 14th, 2022 by Edgar MendezIKON Hotel Deal At Risk of Default
Haywood Group could default on $4 million city loan. City could end up owning empty mall.
Jul 26th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneZoning Changes Could Grow City Population
City looks to update zoning code, in line with Mayor Johnson's vision for growth.
Jul 25th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCity Seeking Affordable Housing Developers Who Need Funding
Housing Trust Fund has $10 million to award to worthy projects.
Jul 25th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneHousing Trust Fund now accepting applications for new round of grant funding
Jul 25th, 2022 by Ald. Michael Murphy
Can New Naloxone Medication Reduce Overdose Deaths?
Increased potency of fentanyl, other opioids driving death rate in Milwaukee.
Jul 14th, 2022 by Edgar MendezMayor Johnson’s New HR Director Gets Committee Endorsement
Harper Donahue would move from the City of Madison to Milwaukee.
Jul 7th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneNorth Shore Bank Names Michael Murphy as New Vice President of Consumer Lending
Jun 28th, 2022 by North Shore Bank
Milwaukee Planning To Eliminate Traffic Crash Deaths
City, led by Mayor Cavalier Johnson, adopts "Vision Zero" policy
Jun 23rd, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneARPA Funds Can’t Plug City Budget Hole
Deficit keeps growing and even devoting every ARPA dollar to it won't solve problem.
Jun 15th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCan Menomonee Valley Project Attract Tenants?
Style of industrial development common in suburbs draws questions at City Hall.
Jun 15th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneClifton Crump Named To Zoning Board
Former secretary of city's Board of Zoning Appeals returns to serve on board, to acclaim from council members.
Jun 14th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneDrug Overdose Deaths Still Plague County
Fentanyl driving 5-year rise in Milwaukee, though cocaine also a factor.
Jun 11th, 2022 by Edgar Mendez27-Page Complaint Blasts City Attorney
Tearman Spencer and top deputies face new complaints of misusing public funds, kickbacks and more.
Jun 1st, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneMayor Signs RNC Agreement To Applause
But two big questions remain: will city win convention and will it benefit financially?
Jun 1st, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneRNC framework contract is a win-win for the City of Milwaukee
Joint statement from Common Council Members: Common Council President/Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, and Alderman Scott Spiker June 1, 2022
Jun 1st, 2022 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCouncil Approves RNC Deal, Drops $6 Million Request
Move praised by mayor, convention backers.
Jun 1st, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneShould Select City Employees Be Paid More Than Mayor?
Alderwoman Coggs warns it could primarily benefit white men.
May 27th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Members Asking RNC For $6 Million
Milwaukee can't otherwise benefit from convention because of lack of sales or hotel tax.
May 25th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneStatement on mass shooting at school in Uvalde, Texas
By all Members of the Common Council: Common Council President/Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Robert 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 Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II
May 25th, 2022 by Milwaukee Common CouncilSpecial Election Called For Kovac’s Seat
Veteran alderman is now the city budget director. Primary would be on August 9
May 9th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee Backs Kovac For Budget Director
A unanimous vote for alderman, whose resignation is expected to occur May 9.
May 4th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCity Faces $9.5 Million In Legal Claims
Allegations of coerced confession, wrongful termination and underpayment of wages.
May 4th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneNo New Jackpot Tax at Potawatomi
Borkowski pulls his proposal after meeting with casino CEO. But he already has a new more modest plan.
May 2nd, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneBublr Rolling Out Hundreds of E-Bikes, 26 New Stations
New e-bikes are "awesome" and "extremely fun" says Mayor Johnson.
Apr 28th, 2022 by Jeramey JannenePerez Shakes Up Committee Assignments
Musical chairs game has new leaders at the helm of city's most powerful committees.
Apr 28th, 2022 by Jeramey JannenePolice chase and horrific crash results in probation for reckless driver
Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy April 28, 2022
Apr 28th, 2022 by Ald. Michael MurphyStatement 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
Apr 19th, 2022 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCity Braces For More Lawsuit Settlements
Unusual number of claims by this early in the year. City may transfer $850,00 into settlements account.
Apr 18th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneFederal Grant Could Help Stave Off 1,300 Layoffs
But only for a couple years. Milwaukee still needs state help.
Apr 14th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneDNS Could Drop City Attorney, Hire Its Own
Council debates, then holds off proposal to help Department of Neighborhood Services.
Apr 12th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneShould Milwaukee Add Jackpot Tax?
Ald. Borkowski pushes 1% tax of all jackpots of at least $1,200 won at Potawatomi casino.
Apr 12th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneNew Assessments Hike Residential Values By 17.7%
Property values surging across the entire city, but won't necessary mean a tax increase.
Apr 11th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneMeet 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.
Apr 5th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneComprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan sets Milwaukee up for success
Mar 30th, 2022 by Ald. Michael Murphy
HOPE Kits aim to provide lifesaving tools for the community
Mar 25th, 2022 by Ald. Michael Murphy
City Attorney Halts Plan To Sue Reckless Drivers
Spencer submits last minute opinion saying the proposal is too broad.
Mar 22nd, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneWorkers Seeking Raises Find Open Ears, Empty Pockets
Pension cliff and stagnant wages are pushing city toward a 'tipping point.'
Mar 17th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneJohnson, Donovan Spar Over City’s Future
Candidates for mayor differ on streetcar, partisan politics and who favors defunding police.
Mar 14th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneMPD Moving To Seize Vehicles Via Court System
Policy would apply to repeat offenders that don't change their driving behavior.
Mar 10th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneForeclosure Fiasco Costing Taxpayers Nearly $200,000
City Wide Investments had $49,000 in unpaid taxes before the city stepped in and a lawsuit started.
Mar 4th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCity Boosts 911 Operator Pay By 26%
Milwaukee dealing with staffing shortage as call volume grows, system overhaul looms.
Mar 2nd, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneStatement 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.
Jan 31st, 2022 by Milwaukee Common CouncilShould City Fund Part of New County Juvenile Justice Facility?
Committee debates options for the complex challenges of juvenile justice in Milwaukee.
Jan 27th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneAnti-Harassment Policy Expanded After City Attorney Case
Effort took more than a year, from investigation to enactment.
Jan 21st, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCommon Council Adopts Resolution Amending City’s Anti-Harassment Policy
On Tuesday the Common Council adopted a resolution directing the Department of Employee Relations to update the City’s anti-harassment policy
Jan 21st, 2022 by Ald. JoCasta ZamarripaSummerfest CEO Collects $2.49 Million
Don Smiley gets total compensation of 1.19 million in 2019 and $1.29 million in 2020.
Jan 18th, 2022 by Bruce MurphyCity Moving Toward Cash Vaccination Incentives, Free Rapid Tests
But first the city must figure out how it can purchase the tests.
Jan 13th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Starts Over On Redistricting, Only To Adopt Same Map Again
Effort to expand Latino influence won't stand up to legal challenges says City Attorney. Alderwoman says council "hoodwinked" and "railroaded."
Jan 10th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneCity Could Sue Reckless Drivers in Civil Court
Could allow seizure of repeat offenders' cars. But is City Attorney trying to delay civil suits?
Jan 10th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneOil Spill’s Spread Could Have Been Halted?
Komatsu criticized for not calling local officials to prevent spread of 400 gallons of oil.
Jan 10th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneThank 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
Jan 10th, 2022 by Milwaukee Common CouncilJohnson Controls’ Departure Impacts Third Ward
The story goes all the way back to 1993. Plus: A recap of the week's real estate news
Jan 9th, 2022 by Jeramey JanneneDoes City Need Third Drop-Off Center for Waste?
DPW says it would provide efficiencies, but one alderman balks at the cost.
Dec 29th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCity, County Struggle for Solutions to Overdose Deaths
South-side ZIP code hardest hit. A push for legislation to legalize test strips.
Dec 26th, 2021 by Edgar MendezCouncil Suspends Downtown’s ELMNT Lounge For 60 Days
Action taken after police and others argue over how a homicide near bar was handled.
Dec 15th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil adopts ordinance lowering recovery rate for assessable traffic calming improvements
Dec 14th, 2021 by Ald. Michael Murphy
Predator Cop Costs Milwaukee $400,000
Officer ultimately spent four years in jail after using his job to prey on teenage girls.
Dec 14th, 2021 by Jeramey JannenePastors Demand “Tax and Take” Moratorium
City officials say it's not possible, as discussion of how to handle churches gets confusing.
Dec 8th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneGeneral City Workers Will Get 2% Raise
First raise for non-resident workers since 2008.
Dec 8th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCity Could Make Speed Humps Cheaper
Committee approves slashing cost for property owners by 69% to combat reckless driving.
Dec 6th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneHalf of Milwaukee’s Car Thefts By Children
The 'Kia Boyz' have helped drive 'astronomical' 58% increase in city's car thefts, nearly half by kids 16 and under.
Dec 6th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Okays ‘Warp Speed’ Redistricting
City officials forced to work quickly, with one council member objecting to new plan.
Nov 24th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneThe Council’s War With Tearman Spencer
Lots of grumbling, but City Attorney scores wins in two of three battles Tuesday.
Nov 23rd, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee Backs City Redistricting Plan
But what about a third Latino majority district?
Nov 22nd, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Releases Draft Plan For New Council Districts
Every aldermanic district would change under proposed plan.
Nov 18th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneState 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
Nov 18th, 2021 by Milwaukee Common CouncilMilwaukee Adopts New Ward Map For City
New districts coming next week. Riverwest further split between two council districts.
Nov 17th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Blasts Extra Cost For Morales’ Lawsuit
City Attorney Spencer knew outside counsel handling case exceeded authorized cost.
Nov 16th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee 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.
Nov 5th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneTearman Spencer Adds Media To List Of Those Inhibiting Him
Conditions at City Attorney's office would improve if media quit "erroneously" reporting on them says City Attorney.
Oct 29th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee Recommends Few Budget Amendments
No fee increases and few changes as council braces for next year's fiscal cliff.
Oct 28th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneFinance and Personnel Committee amends, recommends approval of 2022 budget
Oct 28th, 2021 by Ald. Michael Murphy
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
Oct 28th, 2021 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCity Faces Shortage of Garbage Truck, Snowplow Drivers
Milwaukee raising starting pay by $5,400.
Oct 27th, 2021 by Jeramey JannenePolice Department Tweets Lied To Public
Comptroller audit finds 2020 tweets misled public. Acting Chief Norman calls them "unacceptable."
Oct 27th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Adopts $179 Million Rescue Plan Package
Compromise plan includes money for pension reserve, housing, lead abatement and child care providers.
Oct 21st, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil 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.
Oct 15th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee recommends approval of ARPA omnibus proposal
Includes funding for public safety and crime prevention, housing, lead abatement, continued COVID response and more
Oct 15th, 2021 by Mayor Cavalier JohnsonCommon 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?
Oct 12th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil submitted ARPA proposals now public
Will be discussed at Finance and Personnel Committee meeting Friday
Oct 12th, 2021 by Ald. Michael MurphyHomicides, Shootings, Auto Thefts All At Record Highs
MPD Acting Chief Jeffrey Norman presents vision of community-centered approach to solving issues.
Oct 11th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneOur court systems need additional resources to help address violent crime
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy October 7, 2021
Oct 7th, 2021 by Ald. Michael Murphy12 Options to Solve Milwaukee’s Fiscal Crisis
Nine are bad says alderman. Without solution Milwaukee would need to cut one-fourth of workforce.
Oct 6th, 2021 by Jeramey Jannene2022 Assessment Process Could Be Chaotic
Top staffers departing, number of 2020 appeals still pending, hot real estate market, no assessments in 2021.
Oct 4th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneLatest City Attorney Controversy Causes Council Infighting
Dodd vs Zamarripa is an extension of Tearman Spencer vs City Hall
Oct 1st, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil approves major ARPA-funded pedestrian safety/anti-reckless driving measure
Sep 23rd, 2021 by Ald. Michael Murphy
Turmoil, Toxic Work Environment at City Attorney’s Office
Resignation forms cite ethical violations, poor treatment of women & more by Tearman Spencer.
Sep 15th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee 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.
Sep 3rd, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCity Could Lose 40% of ARPA Funds to Revenue Recovery
Funds would go towards plugging revenue shortfalls, not generational investments.
Sep 2nd, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Delays Action On ARPA Funds
City has $193 million in the bank. But how to spend it still being debated.
Sep 1st, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneLeaders Celebrate New Mental Health Center
Huge gathering of officials for project lauded as momentous, exciting and historic.
Aug 31st, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneHarley-Davidson Founder’s Home For Sale
Washington Heights home of William S. Harley on market for first time in 45 years
Aug 31st, 2021 by Michael HorneMayor’s Race Looks Like a Wild One
Wide open, with lots of candidates, no obvious favorites and so much at stake.
Aug 30th, 2021 by Bruce MurphyCongratulations 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
Aug 25th, 2021 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCouncil Holds ARPA Spending Until September
Mayor's $93 million "summer plan" delayed, along with proposals by alders.
Jul 27th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Approves Morales Settlement
Former chief will get $500,000 and now a finalist for job in Dane County suburb.
Jul 27th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneTwo-Thirds of All Milwaukee Auto Thefts Are Kia and Hyundai Vehicles
Milwaukee on track for record breaking year, having already eclipsed all of 2020.
Jul 24th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneMorales Payout Rises Still Higher
City must also pay its private legal team. Total cost of lawsuit will exceed $668,000.
Jul 19th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneNew Ordinance Could Remove Elected Officials
For undefined 'inefficiency' or 'neglect of duty.' Alders slam the proposal.
Jun 28th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneSummerfest, City Strike Deal On Police Costs
Costs had climbed to more than $800,000 annually for MPD, but festival paid for little of it.
Jun 24th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneReckless 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
Jun 17th, 2021 by Milwaukee Common CouncilPolice Again Enforcing Expired Plates
Fair warning to drivers, who haven't had to renew license plates since COVID-19 health order issued.
Jun 8th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCity Could Spend $100,000 To Argue Over $100,000
Fight between City Attorney Tearman Spencer and Common Council getting worse.
Jun 8th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneLet your voice be heard (and help shape history) by taking the survey!
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Cavalier Johnson
Jun 4th, 2021 by Ald. Michael MurphyWith state of emergency winding down, enforcement of expired vehicle registrations must ramp up
Joint statement from Common Council President Cavalier Johnson and Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Jun 3rd, 2021 by Mayor Cavalier JohnsonCouncil Approves Federal Drug Trafficking Grants
Activist asks what success fighting War on Drugs looks like? MPD lists arrests, seizures.
May 26th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil approves George Floyd Justice in Policing Act file
May 25th, 2021 by Ald. Milele Coggs
Congratulations Chief Lipski!
Joint Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic
May 21st, 2021 by Milwaukee Common CouncilBlack Drug Overdose Death Rate Spikes
Deaths in county up in 2021, but up the most for African Americans.
May 21st, 2021 by Edgar MendezCommittee sets public hearing for next week on ARPA funding preferences
Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Cavalier Johnson
May 19th, 2021 by Ald. Michael MurphyStimulus Funds Won’t Cancel Streetlighting Fee
Sorry taxpayers, money from fee can't be replaced by pandemic aid, federal rules say.
May 19th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneIt’s time to re-open City Hall
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy May 10, 2021
May 10th, 2021 by Ald. Michael MurphyThe Passing of Pastor Jerome Smith
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy May 5, 2021
May 5th, 2021 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil approves transparency file for receipt and distribution of ARPA funds
May 4th, 2021 by Ald. Michael Murphy
Tearman Spencer Vs. City Hall
New City Attorney is quite public with his frustrations with those he is tasked with representing.
Apr 29th, 2021 by Jeramey JannenePension Costs Will Cause Huge Worker Layoffs
One-sixth of city workforce projected for cuts by 2026, with added cuts in future years.
Apr 28th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneOverdoses Surge and Heroin, Opioid Cocaine Task Force Doesn’t Meet
Task force was created to develop policy recommendations for overdose crisis.
Apr 15th, 2021 by Edgar MendezCity Must Decide How To Spend $405 Million
Latest federal COVID-19 stimulus plan creates pleasant challenge for mayor, council.
Apr 14th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneSpencer’s Conduct Could Spur New City Harassment Law
Six employees accuse City Attorney but report finds city law doesn't cover elected officials.
Apr 12th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCity’s anti-harassment policy should be applicable to ALL employees
Apr 9th, 2021 by Ald. JoCasta Zamarripa
Committee discusses trio of files aimed at transparency, inclusion for ARPA funding
Apr 8th, 2021 by Mayor Cavalier Johnson
Milwaukee Could Suspend Street Lighting Fee
But property owners will need to pay at least once.
Apr 1st, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneNew Police Grant Approved With Little Scrutiny
Latest grant got two minutes of discussion, not months of meetings.
Mar 26th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCity 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.
Mar 25th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneReturn to in-person learning is needed for local youth
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy March 22, 2021
Mar 22nd, 2021 by Ald. Michael MurphyEvers Is Wrong on I-94 Expansion
The proposal doesn't learn from history and contradicts the approach of Biden, Buttigieg.
Mar 16th, 2021 by John NorquistFinance and Personnel Committee to discuss receipt and distribution of federal relief funds
Mar 16th, 2021 by Ald. Michael Murphy
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
Mar 11th, 2021 by Milwaukee Common CouncilAnother Council Committee Opposes Wilson
Majority of council opposes Ann Wilson's reappointment to Fire & Police Commission.
Mar 10th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCommon 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
Mar 3rd, 2021 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCity Pushes Century City to Make USPS Trucks
Council members and mayor urge Oshkosh Corporation to consider Milwaukee location.
Mar 1st, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneFPC Members, City Attorney Blew Off Inspector General Interview Requests
Fallout and confusion from the Morales fiasco gets worse.
Feb 15th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneSales 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
Feb 12th, 2021 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCouncil Disagrees on I-94 Expansion
Council once opposed it, but now wavering. Bauman blames disinformation by unions and WisDOT.
Feb 9th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCity Pushing Back On Interstate 94 Expansion, Not Reconstruction
City poised to lobby feds to slow down WisDOT.
Feb 1st, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneContinuing King Drive is continuing the work of Dr. King
Statement of Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs January 22, 2021
Jan 22nd, 2021 by Ald. Milele CoggsOn 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
Jan 22nd, 2021 by Milwaukee Common CouncilWhat Can City Do About Pension Crisis?
Milwaukee must find at least $90 million annually starting in 2023. All options are on the table.
Jan 20th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneJoint 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
Jan 19th, 2021 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCouncil Overrides Mayoral Veto, Wants Power To Fire Police Chief
Council wants Legislature to give it firing power. Mayor's veto of this fails.
Jan 19th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Confirms Avalos, Adds Tie-Breaking Vote to Fire & Police Commission
But a potential issue awaits with looming rejection of Ann Wilson's reappointment.
Jan 19th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Okays Federal COPS Grant, But…
Police department agrees to certain conditions for grant intended to reform operations.
Jan 19th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneMunicipal Court Firing Debt Collector
Duncan Solutions being dropped less than a year after deal started.
Jan 13th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneNew City HR Director Impresses Alders
Makda Fessahaye's appointment as employee relations director wins unanimous committee approval.
Jan 13th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneCity Moves to Ban Discrimination by Hairstyle
Proposal makes hairstyles a protected class alongside sex, religion, race.
Jan 11th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Seeks Data for Vision Zero Push
Consultant would identify dangerous interactions, develop predictive model.
Jan 8th, 2021 by Jeramey JanneneFlames 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
Jan 7th, 2021 by Milwaukee Common CouncilWhy So Many Police Chiefs?
Milwaukee's police leadership has become a surreal version of musical chairs. What’s going on?
Dec 23rd, 2020 by Bruce MurphyWise Appointment of Jeffrey Norman Gives the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners a Chance to Pause
Statement of Alderman Ashanti Hamilton December 19, 2020
Dec 19th, 2020 by Ald. Ashanti HamiltonNew acting chief will provide stability and leadership
Statement of Alderwoman Chantia Lewis December 19, 2020
Dec 19th, 2020 by Ald. Chantia LewisMilwaukee’s Traffic Fatalities Surge in 2020
Despite big decrease in traffic. Do emptier roads encourage reckless driving?
Dec 16th, 2020 by Edgar MendezBarrett Picks Makda Fessahaye for Human Resources Director
Attorney to replace longtime Employee Relations director Maria Monteagudo.
Dec 15th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Wants Control Over Police and Fire Chiefs
Seeking changes to state law to give city's elected officials control.
Dec 15th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Moves To Reject Federal COPS Grant
Means 30 fewer officers, leaving Milwaukee down by 150 officers in 2021.
Dec 15th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneAvalos Confirmation On Hold Because of FPC Misstep
Committee voted for her without necessary background check.
Dec 14th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Sets Conditions For COPS Grant
Committee proposes 7 conditions for police department in order for city to accept federal grant.
Dec 14th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneShould Mayor Appoint Police and Fire Chiefs?
Council members think system is broken; many support change in state legislation.
Dec 7th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneOverdose Responders Struggle Against Rising Deaths
Response team connects people to treatment after a non-fatal overdose.
Nov 20th, 2020 by Edgar MendezTroubles at Fire & Police Commission
12 staff vacancies, no director, three board vacancies. Committee grills Barrett aides for answers.
Nov 10th, 2020 by Jeramey Jannene$1.6 Billion Adopted Budget Raises Fees, Cuts Police
City's fiscal challenges continue to mount under state restrictions, rising costs.
Nov 6th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneBudget Amendment Would Move Milwaukee Towards “Vision Zero”
Proposal start of an effort to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries.
Oct 30th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee Approves Over 20 Amendments To Milwaukee Budget
Amendments target violence prevention, housing, lead abatement and more.
Oct 30th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee recommends approval of omnibus budget amendment
Amendment provides funding for healthy food access, lead abatement, CART teams and Community Collaborative Commission, among other initiatives
Oct 29th, 2020 by Mayor Cavalier JohnsonAlmost Half of Budget Amendments Are Policy Footnotes
Footnotes call for a racial equity audit, benches in vacant lots, lead-safe property database and much more.
Oct 29th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneSafeHomes initiative expands lead abatement efforts for a lead-free Milwaukee
Oct 27th, 2020 by Ald. Marina Dimitrijevic
MPD Survey Shows Police Perception Divided Along Racial, Economic Lines
Researcher says key takeaway is for MPD officers to exercise compassion in any interaction.
Oct 22nd, 2020 by Jeramey JannenePublic Safety & Health Committee to discuss Police Satisfaction Survey results
Oct 21st, 2020 by Ald. Michael Murphy
City Could Lose 30 More Police Officers
Federal grant rules could mean cutting 30 more than proposed cut of 120 cops.
Oct 19th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneMunicipal Court Attendance Way Up
Huge reduction in no shows in Zoom era. Even a court appearance from Saudi Arabia.
Oct 13th, 2020 by Gretchen SchuldtShould Milwaukee Stop The Hop?
Alderman proposes this, but suspending the service might cost more than it saves.
Oct 13th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneFiles in support of election operations and federal COVID relief approved by Council
Oct 13th, 2020 by Mayor Cavalier Johnson
About That Proposed Street Lighting Fee
Average homeowner fee is $45 per year so city could replace 100-year-old circuitry
Oct 13th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneStatement 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
Oct 12th, 2020 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCommittee passes motion relating to protective services vacancies
Would require MPD to explore possibility of filling openings by non-sworn employees
Sep 28th, 2020 by Ald. Milele CoggsWisconsin 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
Sep 28th, 2020 by Milwaukee Common CouncilWe 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
Sep 22nd, 2020 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCity Made $8.6 Million Debt Mistake
Past Comptroller blamed. Mistake equivalent to all the salaries of health department staff.
Sep 21st, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneAssessor Wants No Assessments in 2021
Proposal would freeze property values for two years.
Sep 15th, 2020 by Jeramey Jannene120 Officer Cut May Be Just The Beginning
The Milwaukee Police Department will have fewer officers in 2021, but the question is how many?
Sep 10th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCultural organization grant program aims to help financially-strapped arts providers
Sep 4th, 2020 by Ald. Michael Murphy
City Expands Program To Fight Overdoses
Housed in fire department, the MORI program aims to reduce drug addiction, overdoses.
Sep 2nd, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneResidents deserve better treatment after Hawley Road water main break
Aug 28th, 2020 by Ald. Michael Murphy
Budget Testimony Includes Repeated Ask For $75 Million Police Cut
Two-thirds of those that testified at preliminary budget hearing want funds to go towards health, housing.
Aug 27th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee 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
Aug 27th, 2020 by Milwaukee Common CouncilBudget Process Kicks Off On Wednesday
Virtual hearing Wednesday, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Mayor will outline city's financial situation.
Aug 24th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCouple Opens Medical Training Center
Former MPS facility at 69th and Appleton becomes Standard of Excellence training center for entry-level medical jobs.
Aug 18th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneArticle offers insight into how Milwaukee suburbs keep out affordable housing
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy August 19, 2020
Aug 18th, 2020 by Ald. Michael MurphyPolice Cuts Could Hit Minority Officers
Milwaukee Police Department’s Black and Hispanic officers tend to have less seniority.
Aug 10th, 2020 by Gretchen SchuldtMilwaukee has an opportunity to usher in lasting change
Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council – Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II and Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton and Alderman Khalif J. Rainey
Aug 9th, 2020 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCity efforts against reckless driving to include restriping of Grantosa Drive
Statement of Common Council President Cavalier Johnson July 29, 2020
Jul 29th, 2020 by Mayor Cavalier JohnsonTask Force Plan Targets Reckless Driving
City-County Carjacking and Reckless Driving Task Force contains strategies to combat problem.
Jul 29th, 2020 by Edgar MendezAssessment Commissioner Keeps His Job
Once expected to face a close vote, Steve Miner gets council approval on 13-2 vote.
Jul 28th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil approves resolution seeking to provide greater broadband access throughout Milwaukee
Jul 28th, 2020 by Ald. Milele Coggs
Ald. Coggs Wants To Increase Internet Access
Remote work and education has made internet access a necessity.
Jul 24th, 2020 by Corrinne Hess$1 Million For ‘Really Unique Project’
Headline: Journal Sentinel building from 1960s would become housing for MATC students.
Jul 21st, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Might Fire Assessor Steve Miner
Assessment Commissioner finds little support from Judiciary & Legislation Committee.
Jul 21st, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee moves forward with grants to help bolster voting access, security
Jul 21st, 2020 by Mayor Cavalier Johnson
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
Jul 20th, 2020 by Milwaukee Common CouncilPublic 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
Jul 18th, 2020 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCurrent openings make no sense, and the public deserves answers
Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy July 17, 2020
Jul 17th, 2020 by Ald. Michael MurphyTaking Back Our Streets
Reckless driving plagues the city. An new coalition of concerned citizens wants your suggestions.
Jul 17th, 2020 by Danitra JonesCity Secures Funding To Redevelop, Expand Century City Park
Park will quadruple in size as of MKE Plays redevelopment.
Jul 10th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneSelection 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
Jul 10th, 2020 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCouncil Okays Funding for Indigent Defense
Many Milwaukee Municipal Court defendants are poor and lack an attorney.
Jul 8th, 2020 by Bruce MurphyFeds Won’t Cover $1.6 Million Hazard Pay
Changing guidance leaves Milwaukee holding the bag for COVID-19-related bonus.
Jul 1st, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee passes resolution supporting Gov. Evers’ policing accountability and transparency reforms
Jun 29th, 2020 by Mayor Cavalier Johnson
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
Jun 24th, 2020 by Milwaukee Common CouncilMilwaukee County Headed for Record Overdoses in 2020
By March the county was significantly ahead of 2019 in the number of deaths.
Jun 19th, 2020 by Edgar MendezCouncil passes resolution seeking Juneteenth Day become a federal holiday
Jun 17th, 2020 by Ald. Milele Coggs
Council Okays Planning for 10% Police Cut
Requires city budget office to model what cut would look like, in time for fall budget debate.
Jun 16th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Proposes 10% Police Budget Cut
11 council members back $30 million cut and investing in other programs.
Jun 15th, 2020 by Jeramey JannenePolice Blame Mayor, Council For Murder Rate
Department uses official account to say budget cuts driving murder rate higher. Data doesn't prove link.
Jun 12th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCity Holds Emergency Council Meeting To Approve Voting Sites, Why?
Move expands early voting access from three to 16 sites.
Jun 11th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneGrant extension of $500K good news for MKE’s efforts to combat opioid epidemic
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy June 10, 2020
Jun 10th, 2020 by Ald. Michael MurphyChief’s Crucifixion Message Panned by Council
13 members sign letter urging Morales: stop chiding protesters and listen to their message.
Jun 8th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneProtests must remain peaceful in the interest of public safety
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy June 4, 2020
Jun 4th, 2020 by Ald. Michael MurphySuburbs’ Policies Ignore Science, Kowalik Charges
Suburban elected officials overruling health officers on COVID-19, city official charges.
May 20th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Debates Assessment Process
Alders unhappy. Assessor gets grilled about home value hikes in certain neighborhoods.
May 12th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneJoint 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
May 8th, 2020 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCity To Furlough, Cut Hours For 750 Employees
Revenue down $27 million in pandemic and city forced to make cuts.
May 6th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneJohnson Chooses Powerful Committee Chairs
Not every supporter rewarded. New council president says picks reflect experience, not politics.
Apr 28th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneHow Hamilton Lost Council Presidency
Will bad feelings linger over Cavalier Johnson’s victory?
Apr 22nd, 2020 by Bruce Murphy7 COVID-19 Cases From In-Person Voting?
Likely to rise as Health Department reviews all data. Council pushes for absentee voting.
Apr 22nd, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneJohnson Elected Council President
Second-term Ald. Cavalier Johnson defeats Ashanti Hamilton and Milele Coggs.
Apr 21st, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneWhite City Worker Wins Racial Bias Payout
Health department employee's claims involve former interim commissioner Patricia McManus.
Apr 15th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCity Approves Wisconsin Center Deal
Expansion approved and could pay $1 million per year to Milwaukee. But Bauman, others doubt it.
Apr 15th, 2020 by Jeramey Jannene12 Election Takeaways
How high was turnout, lawyers will be busy, girl power, streetcar wins again and a new council president?
Apr 14th, 2020 by Jeramey Jannene2020 Spring Election Results
Live City of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County results for the April 7th Spring Election.
Apr 13th, 2020 by Urban MilwaukeeCommon Council Candidates
Ten contested races could reshape 15-member council.
Apr 4th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Overrides Mayor’s Veto
Should Friends of Housing contract be terminated? Did mayor violate attorney-client privilege or council violate city charter?
Mar 25th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Delays Convention Expansion?
9-4 vote seeks to prevent convention center expansion during pandemic.
Mar 24th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee on 70-Year Pace To Replace Lead Laterals
What will the city do for property owners that want to voluntarily replace their laterals?
Mar 13th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Will Cut Down 900 of Its Ash Trees
Federal grant funds replacement of trees ravaged by Emerald Ash Borer.
Mar 12th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneAudit Gives Water Works High Marks
Outside audit of city utility found good practices for lead reduction, water quality monitoring.
Mar 12th, 2020 by Jeramey Jannene11 Key Details About the Convention Center Expansion
Plus: Rite-Hite moving to city, Mitchell Street mystery, Lower East Side projects still alive.
Mar 8th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCoronavirus Likely to Hit Milwaukee, Officials Say
Health Department officials are planning for response to outbreak.
Mar 6th, 2020 by Corrinne HessCity Wants $5 Million of Hotel Tax Per Year
Council may rescind support for convention center expansion without its historic cut of tax restored.
Mar 3rd, 2020 by Jeramey JannenePerez Leads Termination of Friends of Housing Contract
Frustrated by nuisance properties, Alderman takes aim at organization's city contracts.
Feb 28th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneRed Light Cameras Are Not the Cure for What Ails Milwaukee
A Long-Term Solution to Reckless Driving Will Require Leadership
Feb 25th, 2020 by State Rep. Bob DonovanCity’s Permit Could Charge Summerfest
Revised special events permit could charge festival full price of police security.
Feb 24th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCity’s African American Auto Deaths Soar
Up by 93% in five years, report finds. Statistic is “shocking,” says Ald. Murphy
Feb 24th, 2020 by Corrinne HessStrauss Closes Door on Milwaukee Move
Plus: An abandoned basement discovered in former Grand Avenue Mall.
Feb 23rd, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCity Wins Grant for New Park on 31st and Galena
Pump track, sepak takraw courts will cater to cyclists and area's Southeast Asian population. Builds on previous support from Green Bay Packers.
Feb 21st, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee Approves Large Solar Deal After Contentious Debate
Ald. Bob Bauman's amendments attempt to set baseline, grow value of deal.
Feb 20th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCounty Had Record Overdose Deaths in 2019
404 overdose deaths last year; previous high was 401 in 2017.
Feb 12th, 2020 by Edgar MendezCity Okays Convention Center Expansion
Cost of $300 to $375 million. Murphy questions whether it will fill more hotel rooms.
Feb 11th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneSummerfest Flush With Cash
Festival has $47 million net fund balance. Aldermen say it can afford to pay for police services.
Feb 4th, 2020 by Bruce MurphyIs Tire Disposal Fee Causing Illegal Dumping?
Council wants data, raises concerns.
Jan 31st, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Inches Toward Universal Basic Income
Proposal will create a framework, needs philanthropic support.
Jan 21st, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneMeet the Candidates for City Offices
Packed spring election features 46 candidates for 19 city offices.
Jan 15th, 2020 by Jeramey JannenePipe Destroyed in Water Main Break
"Very, very rare" break destroys 29 feet of water main, raises questions, devastates residents in area.
Jan 9th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneIs There A Plan To Prevent New Tent City?
City officials worry. If no plan, should state build a campground under highway?
Jan 8th, 2020 by Jeramey JanneneSouth Hawley Road to Fully Reopen on Monday, January 13
Jan 7th, 2020 by Mayor Tom Barrett
Meet HQ501
Scott Lurie, in partnership with RINKA, unveils renderings for redeveloped Assurant building.
Dec 21st, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCity Invests in 207 Affordable Homes
Housing Trust Fund will provide $900,000 in capital. Can this program be grown?
Dec 16th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCity Wins $700,000 For Drug Overdose Fight
Opioid program has saved 15 lives in 2019; new funding will expand program.
Dec 6th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneSummerfest Pays No Net Rent
Charges ethnic festivals more rent than it pays city, like “a greedy landlord,” alderman charges.
Nov 26th, 2019 by Bruce MurphySummerfest Got $48 Million in Gifts
Total donations from 2010 to 2018 helped pay for CEO Don Smiley’s "caviar lifestyle"?
Nov 21st, 2019 by Bruce MurphyBarrett Issues 8 Budget Vetoes
Vetoes attack borrowing, garbage truck replacement, blight elimination.
Nov 19th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneMorales Blames ACLU Suit for Traffic Ticket Drop
Police Chief says stop-and-frisk settlement caused decline. But some question this.
Nov 18th, 2019 by Gretchen SchuldtPolice Overtime Costs a Budget Problem
Council discusses how to trim annual cost of $17 million. Unfunded service for Summerfest an issue.
Nov 15th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneSenator Johnson continues to lobby for vaping industry – at the expense of Wisconsin’s children and young people
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy November 14, 2019
Nov 14th, 2019 by Ald. Michael MurphyThe Brewery Celebrates Its Completion
New gateway tops off transformation from abandoned brewery to real neighborhood.
Nov 12th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Cuts Police, Adopts $1.6 Billion Budget
Council wrestles with huge fiscal challenges due to rising police costs, declining state aid.
Nov 8th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneSummerfest CEO Awarded $2.33 Million
Don Smiley’s 2017 pay package includes $1.3 million deferred from prior years. City officials “shocked.”
Nov 8th, 2019 by Bruce MurphyProposal Uses Lead Abatement Funds for Marketing
Ald. Lewis proposes using lateral replacement funds for council's "community outreach."
Nov 7th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneSummerfest Blows Off City Meeting
No festival official attends scheduled meeting. Partnership with city “broken”, Ald. Murphy says.
Nov 7th, 2019 by Bruce MurphyStreet Safety Funding Passes Committee
DPW would get $1.2 million in new, dedicated funding for complete streets.
Nov 6th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneProposal Would Fund Emergency Housing
City-owned properties would house displaced families, human trafficking victims. Plus: committee cuts Bublr funding.
Oct 31st, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneProposal Gives Residents a Basic Income
Lewis, Kovac back "Universal Basic Income" for 50 poorer families of $500 per month.
Oct 31st, 2019 by Jeramey JannenePreliminary report to be released by Carjacking and Reckless Driving Task Force
News Release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Oct 25th, 2019 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommittee Approves City BRT Agreement
City DPW would be reimbursed by Milwaukee County for design and infrastructure costs.
Oct 23rd, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil approves hiring outside counsel to recover opioid epidemic costs
News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Oct 15th, 2019 by Ald. Michael MurphyHawley Road’s Diet
New protected bike lane, traffic calming accomplished with paint and plastic.
Oct 7th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneShould Smoking Be Banned in Front of Public Buildings?
Murphy and Donovan square off over smoking in front of City Hall.
Oct 3rd, 2019 by Jeramey Jannene$75,000 Donated to Maintain City Hall Sculpture
Anonymous donor chips in $75,000 to support "Mixed Feelings."
Oct 2nd, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Approves Ikon Hotel Deal Despite Objections
Plus: Council unanimously endorses host of other development projects.
Sep 24th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneAfrican American Affairs Office Planned for W. Fond du Lac Ave.
City will set up clearinghouse for city, community resources at 48th and Fond du Lac.
Sep 23rd, 2019 by Jeramey Jannene$44 Million Soldiers Home Project Launched
Huge group of politicians, dignitaries, salute project to redevelop Civil War-era VA complex.
Sep 20th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneShould Milwaukee Ban Plastic Straws?
Some alderman seem in favor. It's one of the few single-use plastics the city could ban.
Sep 11th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCity Recycled More in 2018
Residents recycled 25,451 tons in 2018, but don't throw plastic bags in the bins.
Sep 11th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCounty’s Overdose Deaths Up in 2019
At current rate, county would hit highest total of drug fatalities in a decade.
Sep 1st, 2019 by Edgar MendezCity of Milwaukee Health Department Urges Residents to Stop Using Vaping Products
Severe pulmonary disease has been discovered among teens and adults who reported vaping
Aug 28th, 2019 by City of Milwaukee Health DepartmentThere’s Only One Liquid Johnny’s
Classic Milwaukee. Same name since 1981. Wear your cat shirt and get free draft beer.
Aug 21st, 2019 by Michael HorneStudy to evaluate redevelopment on West Burleigh Street
Alderman Khalif J. Rainey said the study will focus on renovating existing properties, establishing new businesses and creating a more aesthetically pleasing environment.
Jul 31st, 2019 by Ald. Khalif RaineyMKE Plays receives $500K from Burke Foundation
This is the second large donation to MKE Plays by The Burke Foundation
Jul 29th, 2019 by Ald. Michael MurphyFPC Nominee Faces Cloud of Uncertainty
Council vote unclear on Griselda Aldrete, mayor's pick to lead Fire & Police Commission.
Jul 28th, 2019 by Edgar MendezCity May Sue Opioid Manufacturers
Murphy wants city attorney to consider suit for damages from opioid epidemic.
Jul 26th, 2019 by Alana WatsonJournal Sentinel Making Historic Move
Newspaper selling its home of 95 years, moving to leased space in 330 Kilbourn complex.
Jul 25th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneClean Drinking Water Effort Falls Short
$40 million state funding to replace lead laterals cut from budget by Republicans.
Jul 24th, 2019 by Isiah Holmes‘No Singles/No Loosies’ campaign looks to reduce smoking in teens, young adults
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy July 23, 2019
Jul 23rd, 2019 by Ald. Michael MurphyTake It EZ, Donovan Urges
New public-private initiative targets reckless driving in the city.
Jul 22nd, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneAldermen Blast City’s Call Center
Should you call 286-City to report a pothole? Don't bother, some aldermen say.
Jul 18th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee Okays City Pedestrian Plan
98 pages with 100 actions suggested. But will any of it be funded?
Jul 17th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCouple Plans Center Street Rehab Project
Will buy building from city near N. 51st St. and restore it to "enhance" the community.
Jul 11th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Passes New Tow Truck Rules
Private operators must must file forms regarding any "drops". Next could be report cards.
Jul 9th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneEffort Improves City’s Recreation Areas
MPS has invested $12 million in rebuilding, renovating outdoor athletic and play facilities.
Jul 9th, 2019 by Andrea WaxmanIs the City Ready for Scooters?
Council debates pilot program allowing scooters. "We're all scared to death," Borkowski says.
Jun 26th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneBill Allows Red Light Cameras in City
Legislation would give Milwaukee Police another tool to combat speeding, reckless driving.
Jun 25th, 2019 by Corrinne HessResolution 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.”
Jun 5th, 2019 by Mayor Cavalier JohnsonCity Is Repaving More Streets
But is focus on streets just creating a backlog of alleys and sidewalks needing work?
Jun 5th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCity Confident Couture Won’t Block Streetcar
Federal grant at risk if lakefront extension to The Couture isn't running by end of 2020.
Jun 5th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil approves resolution supporting creation of federal Green New Deal legislation
News release by Alderman Nik Kovac and Cavalier Johnson
May 31st, 2019 by Nik KovacOh, Those Dreaded Plastic Bags
Council debates what to do with bags that clog up recycling process.
May 15th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneToo Much Historic Preservation?
City now has 180 designated sites. Often this has nothing to do with preservation.
May 9th, 2019 by Julie GraceCity a Leader in Complete Streets Policy
Milwaukee's Complete Streets policy ranks third nationally in report, but yet to be tested.
May 9th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Says Marcus Center Not Historic
Votes down designation and compromise to save Kiley grove with a friends group.
May 7th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Okays Subsidy for One MKE Plaza
Comptroller calls the deal a "significant risk" but council votes 12-3 in favor.
May 7th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneMayor 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
May 6th, 2019 by State Rep. Bob DonovanGov. Evers Announces Staff Appointments for Governor’s Office in Milwaukee
Dr. Shandowlyon Hendricks-Williams will serve as the Milwaukee Director, Edwin Huertas will serve as the Milwaukee Deputy Director, and Revelle Williams will serve as the Milwaukee Constituent Services Manager.
May 1st, 2019 by Gov. Tony EversCity May Expand Residency Incentives
Proposal would extend incentives to police and fire fighters.
Apr 30th, 2019 by Corrinne HessMilwaukeeans Getting Worse at Driving
Crashes up 51% since 2009. Is cell phone use by drivers helping drive numbers?
Apr 25th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneThe Cold War With We Energies
Bauman, other aldermen believe city is charging too little for utility's use of city land.
Apr 24th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneWho Wants to Design A New City Flag?
Common Council starting process intended to end flag debate.
Apr 23rd, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil unanimously passes resolution to study feasibility and costs of an environmentally friendly purchasing program
News release from Alderman Cavalier Johnson
Apr 16th, 2019 by Mayor Cavalier JohnsonA House Divided: Comments from State Rep Show the Current Chasm in Wisconsin
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy April 10, 2019
Apr 10th, 2019 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil Wants Better Pothole Response
Public Works officials say Milwaukee bests other cities. Not good enough, aldermen say.
Apr 4th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneFLAC, Get the Lead Out Fight City Over Lead Posioning
Groups have a showdown with city officials over claims surrounding city's failure on lead poisoning, infant mortality.
Mar 22nd, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCommission Deems Journal Sentinel Complex Historic
Two council members push for designation in advance of paper's possible relocation.
Mar 18th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCity Approves DNC Contract
City expects $50 million from federal government to pay for security.
Mar 11th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneDonovan Won’t Run for Re-Election
Fightin' Bob is walking away. Zamarripa and Bielinski likely to run for council seat.
Mar 10th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneWho Will (Finally) Clear The Snow?
"Why did you stop sending out front-end loaders to finish the job?" irate alderman asks.
Mar 6th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneJournal Complex Historic for Now
Historic Preservation Commission grants temporary designation for complex.
Mar 4th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneLittering Will Now Cost $500
Council raises minimum fine from $25 to $500. "Our streets are dirty," says Ald. Stamper.
Feb 26th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Will Now Make Flag Decision
Will city ever have new flag? Council punted issue to arts board and board punted it back.
Feb 14th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCity Struggles to Keep Up Snow Plowing
Problems include aging equipment, staff shortages and inexperienced operators.
Feb 14th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneJoint 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
Feb 8th, 2019 by Milwaukee Common CouncilJoint 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
Feb 6th, 2019 by Milwaukee Common CouncilSo is the Journal Building Historic?
Historic Preservation Commission goes from one preservation battle to another.
Feb 5th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneKaren Dettmer Will Lead Water Works
Committee puts veteran engineer through the ringer before endorsing her appointment.
Jan 23rd, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneBradley Center To Go Boom
A series of "shaped charges" will detonate and lower the roof on January 13th.
Jan 3rd, 2019 by Jeramey JannenePrime mixed-use development opportunity for Capitol Library
"With the new library being a catalytic community economic development project, this is an exciting opportunity for a developer to help shape the future of this neighborhood."
Jan 2nd, 2019 by Mayor Cavalier JohnsonDrug Task Force Seeks Community Input
City-County Heroin, Opioid and Cocaine Task Force seeks solutions to drug epidemic.
Dec 20th, 2018 by Max NawaraCouncil Okays Largest Urban Manufacturing Deal in U.S.
West Milwaukee company will move to city, but will it create any new jobs?
Dec 18th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneWalker Rewards Restaurant Association?
They gave him $38,000, his board bans city’s food safety ratings of restaurants.
Dec 13th, 2018 by Wisconsin Democracy CampaignOpioid Task Force Issues Recommendations
Next step is to implement the city-county task force’s findings, says Ald. Murphy.
Dec 4th, 2018 by Ximena CondeFinal report released by Heroin, Opioid and Cocaine Task Force
News release and report from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Nov 30th, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyState Ruling Threatens City Health?
Killing city’s restaurant rating system could increase food-borne illness in Milwaukee.
Nov 29th, 2018 by Bruce MurphyFood grading system decision ignores wishes of Milwaukee consumers, business owners
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy - November 29, 2018
Nov 29th, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil Slaps Down Mayor’s Vetoes
Legislative body rejects all five vetoes by Mayor Tom Barrett.
Nov 27th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneCity’s Restaurant Grading System Threatened
State board votes to prohibit system grading restaurants for food safety.
Nov 16th, 2018 by Corrinne HessDisconnect Your Downspouts, Get $100
City program affecting 54,000 homes part of plan to prevent Deep Tunnel overflows.
Nov 15th, 2018 by Jeramey Jannene10 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.
Nov 14th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneArts Board Wants New City Flag Search
Process to select popular People's Flag not inclusive enough, board decides, so start over.
Nov 14th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Adopts 2019 City Budget
Average homeowner will see $51.88 increase, no change in total fire and police officers.
Nov 13th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneDoctors “Pumping Pills on the Streets”?
The City-County heroin and opioid task force should be investigating the role of physicians.
Nov 13th, 2018 by Paul MozinaBusinesses and officials: Keep Milwaukee’s popular food grading system
State board poised to eliminate popular grading system for food establishments; news conference set for Monday
Nov 9th, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyPay Hike for City Politicians Is On Hold
Ald. Chantia Lewis delays vote on 13.6% raise she and some other colleagues want. Mayor threatens veto.
Nov 5th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneStreetcar Opens to Public
"This is your assignment: ride the streetcar," says Mayor Barrett.
Nov 2nd, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneBarrett Signs Complete Streets Policy
Mayor, city officials and activists gather to celebrate new legislation.
Oct 29th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Passes Complete Streets Policy
Streets for all, not just cars, is now the law of the land.
Oct 17th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneHow Long Will Flag Debate Last?
Arts Board might not have decision on the city flag by the end of 2018.
Oct 11th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee Okays Complete Streets Policy
Proposal on street design places pedestrians and cyclists on same level as motorists
Oct 3rd, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneWas Barrett Asleep on Health Department?
Problems may go back a decade and mayor deserves much blame, some alderman say.
Oct 2nd, 2018 by Bruce MurphyCouncil Okays Market-Based Parking Fees
But Tony Zielinski adamantly opposes it, joined by four other council members.
Sep 25th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneThe Inspector General Is Coming
Common Council creates its own watchdog to monitor city departments.
Sep 25th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneGreen Bay Packers players to take part in MKE Plays playground build
News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Sep 24th, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyIncome is Greatest Barrier to Affordable Housing
Report finds incomes in Milwaukee County are a greater barrier to housing than high rents.
Sep 9th, 2018 by Analise PruniHealth Commissioner Pick Gets First Approval
Kowalik wins unanimous vote from committee, interim commissioner reveals ongoing issues.
Sep 4th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneJoint 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
Jul 26th, 2018 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCommittee Okays Dockless Bike Sharing
LimeBike and others could operate by late August, if full council approves measure.
Jul 18th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneCity Moves to Impound Bird Scooters
With no authority to legalize scooters, city officials move to get them off the streets.
Jul 18th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneChinese Recycling Change Will Hurt City
City's annual $870,000 loss due to change by world's largest buyer of recycled paper.
Jun 27th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneZielinski Out as Licenses Committee Chair
Did he lose the powerful post because he's running for mayor?
Jun 21st, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneCommon Council passes e-cigarette measure
Latest move caps off public health package
Jun 20th, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyCity Wins $30,000 Grant for Parks
Ald. Murphy's MKE Plays program has raised $1.7 million for parks since 2015.
Jun 19th, 2018 by Cynthia CrawfordRebuilding a Vibrant Bronzeville
Actor Danny Glover and many local notables celebrate new development anchored by Black Holocaust Museum.
Jun 18th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneCity receives $30,000 ‘Meet Me at the Park’ grant to increase access to local play spaces
Grant awarded by the Walt Disney Company
Jun 18th, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil Moves to Confirm New Port Director
Adam Schlicht has dreams of growing the port through international marketing.
Jun 6th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneCommunity Engagement Session Hosted by Heroin, Opioid and Cocaine Task Force
News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Khalif J. Rainey
Jun 4th, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyReport Finds Milwaukee Mismanaged Lead Cases
Missing case files, cases closed prematurely and health department failed to follow state law
Jun 1st, 2018 by Ximena CondeA special time and a time to move on to a new challenge
Statement of Alderman Jim Bohl - May 24, 2018
May 24th, 2018 by Ald. Jim BohlCity-County Plan Targets Opioid Epidemic
300 opioid overdoses in county last year. Task force proposes eight focus areas.
May 22nd, 2018 by Edgar MendezA Washington Heights Ribbon Cutting
Music school opens in formerly vacant building on 47th and Vliet.
May 15th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneCity of Milwaukee Arts Board awards $227,500 to 35 arts organizations
MAB grants require a dollar-for-dollar cash match from other sources
May 15th, 2018 by City of Milwaukee Arts BoardState overpays for building, hurts city in process
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy - May 8, 2018
May 8th, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyStop-and-Frisk Suit Could Cost $6 Million
Council members struggle with the rising price tag. Will they approve settlement?
May 8th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneArt Walk on West Vliet Street this weekend
The event will feature local artists, shops, restaurants, galleries with live music, special pop-up shops, a visit from the A.W.E. Truck Studio and more.
Apr 27th, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyLegislation mandates lead water lines replacement at child care facilities
This mandate applies to both publicly-owned and privately-owned portions of lead service lines.
Apr 26th, 2018 by Ald. Milele Coggs4th St. Will Become Vel. R. Phillips Ave.
Major downtown street to be renamed for Milwaukee leader and civil rights pioneer.
Apr 25th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneAscension announces pause to service downsizing at St. Joseph
Press release from Alders Khalif J. Rainey, Michael Murphy and Bob Donovan
Apr 18th, 2018 by Ald. Khalif RaineyThe Remarkable Life of Vel Phillips
"A giant in our state" dies at 94; city to honor political pioneer with annual award.
Apr 18th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil approves Ascension service retention measure
"Citizens across our city rely on Ascension facilities for care..."
Apr 17th, 2018 by Ald. Khalif RaineyMPD Traffic Citations Hit Minorities Heavily
Whites issued just 13% of traffic citations by Milwaukee Police in 2017.
Apr 3rd, 2018 by Gretchen SchuldtSculpture Milwaukee work earns place outside City Hall
Tony Cragg’s Mixed Feelings donated anonymously through the Greater Milwaukee Foundation
Mar 30th, 2018 by Sculpture MilwaukeeMKE Plays Receives $10K contribution
Gift supports the revitalization of neighborhood parks across Milwaukee
Mar 29th, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyState changes to residency law having a negative impact on Milwaukee
"The state needs to answer for this situation."
Mar 5th, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyMayor Allows Interim Health Leader
Returns file to the council unsigned, opens door to approval of McManus.
Feb 15th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneWill Mayor Confirm Health Commissioner?
Newly-appointed Patricia McManus still needs confirmation.
Feb 14th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneComments by newly appointed interim Health Department commissioner troubling
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy - February 9, 2018
Feb 9th, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil Appoints McManus Interim Health Leader
She'll be interim commissioner. Says city's failure to send letters about lead was "deliberate."
Feb 6th, 2018 by Jeramey Jannene$750 Million to Replace Lead Pipes
Solutions to city's lead laterals expensive and not simple, council members find.
Jan 24th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneCity Wants Downtown Parking Security
40% of downtown crimes are vehicle break-ins. Council demands safety measures.
Jan 24th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneLight & Unite Red Campaign for substance abuse awareness
Alderman Michael J. Murphy shows his support for substance abuse awareness
Jan 22nd, 2018 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommissioner Baker’s departure leaves us all with many, many questions
Statement from Alderman Bob Donovan - January 16, 2018
Jan 16th, 2018 by State Rep. Bob DonovanCouncil set to act on Health Department crisis
Joint statement from the Milwaukee Common Council
Jan 12th, 2018 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCommon Council Statement on Flynn Retirement
Statement from the Common Council - January 8th, 2018
Jan 8th, 2018 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCity May Contest Foxconn Electricity Deal
Bauman, Kovac call We Energies deal "hypocrisy"; City Attorney may challenge it.
Jan 4th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneCity Kills Contracts With American Sewer
Council moves to subpoena owner, Donovan walks out of heated discussion about racism.
Jan 4th, 2018 by Jeramey JanneneAlderman Murphy and Alderman Pérez encouraged by Chief Flynn and Mayor’s new stance on traffic enforcement policy
Ald. Murphy and Ald. Pérez look forward to further changes being implemented on the roadways to ensure safety.
Dec 21st, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyDrug-Related Deaths To Hit 420 in 2017
Police targeting opioid suppliers. City-County Task Force struggles to hold meetings.
Dec 21st, 2017 by Edgar MendezAffordable Housing Plan Inches Forward
But proposal has been narrowed, will only affect city-financed projects.
Dec 13th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneCity’s Housing Fund Has Big Impact
$7 million invested over 11 years has leveraged an additional $176 million in spending.
Dec 7th, 2017 by Graham KilmerBan Contractors From Carrying Guns?
Proposal causes fierce Common Council debate. Plus: Bauman slams city attorneys.
Dec 6th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneRibbon-cutting ceremony for Garden District mural work, “Flowers in Bloom”
The mural is a part of a neighborhood beautification project.
Dec 4th, 2017 by Ald. Terry WitkowskiTime for Governor to invest within to solve workforce issues
News release from Aldermen Murphy, Perez and Johnson
Dec 1st, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyAlderman Murphy secures funding for opioid addiction awareness
The number of deaths related to opioid overdoses keeps climbing.
Nov 30th, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil Okays Lawyers for Muni Court
Will help defendants who can be jailed when they can’t afford to pay fines.
Nov 30th, 2017 by Bruce MurphyCommon 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.
Nov 28th, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil Delays Action On Shopping Carts
Stores need more notice, they decide, on ordinance requiring locks on all carts.
Nov 28th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneHousing Trust Fund grant allocations approved by Common Council
Housing Trust Fund grants total $600,000 for affordable and supportive housing projects
Nov 28th, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil Overrides Most of Mayor’s Vetoes
Bauman accuses Barrett of false promises, Stamper calls mayor "disingenuous."
Nov 28th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneMarquette’s College of Health Sciences will host panel discussion on opioid epidemic
The free, public event is Thursday, Nov. 30, at 7:15 a.m. in the Monaghan Ballroom on the third-floor of the Alumni Memorial Union
Nov 21st, 2017 by Marquette UniversityCity Atty Says Affordable Housing Plan Illegal
Will legal opinion kill the proposal? Or can Bauman and company rework the language?
Nov 17th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneMKE Plays Receives $100K from Herb Kohl Philanthropies
Gift supports the revitalization of neighborhood parks across Milwaukee
Nov 16th, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyAffordable Housing in Every Major Project?
Proposal would require it for any project with 20 or more units. Will developers oppose it?
Nov 14th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Okays Disparity Study, More Cops
Compromise proposal funds study of gender, race disparities and five new police recruits.
Nov 10th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneThe Milwaukee Soldiers Home Project is funded in time for Veterans Day
The Housing Trust Fund Advisory Board allocates $150,000 to the project which offers housing to homeless veterans.
Nov 9th, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyOpioid Crisis Hits City Hard
County’s huge increase isn’t just suburban whites, city and minority residents hurt, too.
Nov 9th, 2017 by Edgar MendezCouncil Overrides Mayor on Firing Flynn
10-5 vote means city lobbyist must seek state law giving council power to fire chiefs.
Nov 7th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Votes for Authority to Fire Flynn
Requests state law giving them power to fire police and fire chiefs. Mayor promises a veto.
Oct 17th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneCitizens of Milwaukee
For the 14th consecutive budget, Mayor Barrett is going to cut your fire department.
Oct 6th, 2017 by Milwaukee Professional Fire Fighters’ AssociationLocal 215Will City Reform Municipal Court?
Too many judges, indigent defendants treated badly, reform needed.
Oct 5th, 2017 by Bruce MurphyAld. Hamilton’s City Hall Power Play
Michael Murphy now finds himself on the outside looking in. Why?
Oct 4th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneBublr Bikes Installs 60th Station!
More stations coming in October
Oct 2nd, 2017 by Bublr BikesCouncil Passes Gettelman Deal That Will Save One Building, Demolish Others
MillerCoors will demolish historic brewery structures featured prominently in their marketing.
Sep 27th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneMiller Compromises on Gettelman Brewery
MillerCoors only wants to demolish half of historic complex after community push back.
Sep 21st, 2017 by Graham Kilmer“Cause no harm” not part of the thinking in “Right to Carry” proposal
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy - September 21, 2017
Sep 21st, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyBucks Top Off New Arena
4,400-pound steel beam symbolizes the peak of new arena's construction.
Aug 24th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Supports Restricting Asset Forfeiture
Would only be allowed for convicted criminals. Milwaukee police opposed change.
Aug 10th, 2017 by Gretchen SchuldtCouncil Approves BRT Route Restrictions
Learn more about what alderman Bauman claims is a route worth studying
Aug 1st, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil approves amended bus rapid transit resolution
Legislation protects city taxpayers and city priorities
Jul 31st, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil Still Upset with Chief Flynn
"Damn right hold it again" proclaims alderman Bob Donovan. Council wants more control of chief.
Jul 31st, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneCity Fighting County on Rapid Transit
Council committee puts restrictions on BRT project, charges county acted in bad faith.
Jul 19th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneFPC Directive on MPD pursuit policy appropriate, necessary
News release and related documents from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Jul 14th, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil Members Blast Chief Flynn
Demanding more input into Flynn's decision making, they refuse to allocate federal funds.
Jul 11th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneWisconsin Avenue utility box mural project concludes with ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 11
All 10 utility box murals were composed and created by Mauricio Ramirez
Jul 3rd, 2017 by Milwaukee Downtown, BID 21DNR scale-back at State Fair sad, but no surprise
Statement of 10th District Alderman Michael J. Murphy - June 21, 2017
Jun 22nd, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommon Council to take up Paris Climate Accord measure
News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Nik Kovac
Jun 19th, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyImpact of Bus Rapid Transit in Milwaukee
$48 million high-speed bus line projected to carry 10,000 riders daily by 2035.
Jun 14th, 2017 by Edgar MendezCity Moves Forward on Highway 175
70 trees planted at Lisbon Ave. terminus of old Highway 41.
May 30th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneShould Cops Do More High Speed Chases?
Common Council says yes. Chief Flynn says no. Who’s right?
May 26th, 2017 by Bruce MurphyRebuilt DeBack Playground wins Mayor’s Design Award
It features a 90-foot zipline, walking track, fitness equipment, permeable pavement basketball courts, challenging toddler elements, and a 10-foot tall rope dome.
May 19th, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyDowntown Strip Club Approved
Lawsuit settled. "Everyone and their brother" can now open a club.
May 9th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneJennifer Gonda On the Hot Seat
New Water Works director opposed by some aldermen, and faces tough lead pipes issue.
May 4th, 2017 by Dave FidlinHow to Make a Pedestrian Friendly City
New district-by-district reports on improving city for bicycling and walking.
May 3rd, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneSherman Park housing initiative receives final Council approval
News release from Aldermen Russell W. Stamper, II and Khalif J. Rainey
Apr 18th, 2017 by Ald. Russell Stamper, IISix Organizations Approved for Grants through the Milwaukee Employment/Renovation Initiative
Up to 100 Tax-Foreclosed Homes Will Be Renovated in the Greater Sherman Park Area and Up to 100 Unemployed or Underemployed People will Get a Job.
Mar 25th, 2017 by City of MilwaukeePraying for the Zyszkiewicz family and hoping for justice
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy March 24, 2017
Mar 24th, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil passes resolution creating Early Education Task Force
The task force will launch a birth-to-school literacy initiative.
Mar 1st, 2017 by Mayor Cavalier JohnsonFelons Can Now Buy City Homes
Council agrees: pay debt to society and you can buy city-owned homes.
Mar 1st, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneMayor Barrett Highlights Housing Efforts through Partnerships
Ocwen’s commitment is contributing to City efforts in helping residents keep, renovate homes
Mar 1st, 2017 by Mayor Tom BarrettSt. Patrick’s Parade Returns to Downtown Milwaukee on Saturday, March 11th
Week of Irish Entertainment Planned
Mar 1st, 2017 by Westown AssociationCity Spends Big On Housing The Poor
Housing Trust Fund has spent $6.5 million since 2006 on low-income housing.
Feb 21st, 2017 by Graham KilmerCouncil urges Legislature to introduce fair property tax assessment policy bill
"Homeowners in Wisconsin already pay 70% of the total statewide property tax levy."
Feb 8th, 2017 by Mayor Cavalier JohnsonCommon Council approves annual Housing Trust Fund grants
Housing Trust Fund grants totaling $526,000 will help the homeless, promote accessible housing, create jobs and help with homeowner repairs
Feb 8th, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyOverwhelming 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.
Feb 7th, 2017 by Common Council President Jose PerezCouncil 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.
Jan 25th, 2017 by Ald. Jim BohlCommon Council greenlights creation of Heroin, Opioid and Cocaine Task Force
The task force will build on the city’s partnership with the Medical College of Wisconsin and data analysis by Alderman Murphy’s office.
Jan 23rd, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyCity’s $1 Home Program a Great Idea
But you’d never know it, given how some of the media covered it.
Jan 12th, 2017 by Bruce MurphyCity’s $1 House Program Criticized
Residents question why only developers can buy foreclosed homes for a dollar.
Jan 11th, 2017 by Jabril FarajFour Candidates For Muni Court Judge
Incumbent Judge Valarie Hill faces three challengers and many questions.
Jan 6th, 2017 by Gretchen SchuldtIt’s time for Mulchfest 2017
Mulchfest is an annual event to help keep Christmas trees out of the landfill.
Dec 29th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyMKE Plays receiving $100K gift at City Hall Dec. 22 The
MKE Plays is a city-led initiative aimed at renovating 12 of Milwaukee’s most dilapidated playgrounds.
Dec 20th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyMuni Court Debts Slam One Zip Code
One fourth of residents of heavily black 53206 owe money; “shocking,” says Ald. Murphy.
Dec 13th, 2016 by Gretchen SchuldtWill Problem Intersection Be Fixed?
City hopes to fix North and Lisbon and issues spotlighted by Urban Milwaukee.
Dec 2nd, 2016 by Graham KilmerMilwaukee County on pace for a record-setting year of opioid overdose deaths
Analysis from city’s new partnership with Medical College of Wisconsin also shows growing prevalence of fentanyl in overdose cases
Nov 30th, 2016 by Ald. Michael Murphy$1 Million In Donations to City Politicians
Our Political Contributions Tracker hits $1 million, reveals who’s giving and getting cash.
Nov 29th, 2016 by Urban MilwaukeeDrug mail-in initiative will make it easy to dispose of unused meds
Multifaceted first-of-its-kind in the nation city partnership aimed at opioid and heroin epidemic; includes CVS Pharmacy, MMSD, City of Cudahy, DOJ, DEA, US Bank and USPS
Nov 29th, 2016 by Ald. Jim BohlMajor $2 million neighborhood improvement grant will help Sherman Park
Joint statement from Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II and Alderman Michael J. Murphy November 22, 2016
Nov 22nd, 2016 by Ald. Khalif RaineySmokeless tobacco banned at Miller Park, other MKE sports venues
Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy November 22, 2016
Nov 22nd, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommon Council approves budget measure to boost Housing Trust Fund
Housing Trust Fund increase of $200,000 will boost supportive housing efforts
Nov 10th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyAlderman Murphy proposes smokeless tobacco ban
Smokeless tobacco contains at least 28 known carcinogens and causes oral, pancreatic and esophageal cancer.
Nov 8th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyTime for DA to release the video footage of MPD fatal shooting
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy October 28, 2016
Oct 28th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyMayor Barrett’s 2017 Executive Budget Address
As Delivered
Sep 26th, 2016 by Mayor Tom BarrettLeaked documents show waste of millions just to stir GOP voters
Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy---September 16, 2016
Sep 16th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyPotawatomi Hotel & Casino Announces 2016 Heart of Canal Street Charity of Choice
City of Milwaukee's MKE Plays Initiative to receive $100,000 for park renovation.
Sep 9th, 2016 by Potawatomi Casino HotelOn the sudden passing of Eric Von
Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Sep 9th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyClimbing (and swinging) toward fun and hope
Ribbon-cutting ceremony Sunday at 17th and Vine will open latest MKE Plays playground rebuild project
Aug 17th, 2016 by Ald. Russell Stamper, IIPourman’s Used To Be Sausage Factory
Yet it's been a tavern for more than a century. This is truly old Milwaukee.
Jul 28th, 2016 by Michael HorneCity Approves Bus Rapid Transit
Nine-mile BRT project rolls forward, but not without strategic modifications.
Jul 26th, 2016 by Jeramey JanneneChisholm Far More Experienced Than Opponent
He’s handled 14 times more cases than Swanigan. He also shows up for debates.
Jul 25th, 2016 by Bruce MurphyOutrage at ambush of MPD officer & other police shootings
Joint Statement from All Members of the Common Council
Jul 19th, 2016 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCity Panel Approves Bus Rapid Transit
BRT line linking Downtown and Tosa moves forward, though some decry "the rush."
Jul 13th, 2016 by Jeramey JanneneRocky Marcoux’s Job in Jeopardy
Council majority votes no, but decision will get reconsidered. His chances look slim.
Jul 6th, 2016 by Jeramey JanneneIs Kimpton Hotel “Project of the Decade”?
Kimpton Journeyman Hotel opens in Third Ward, to cheers of city and civic officials.
Jun 30th, 2016 by Michael HorneTaking “Home” out of Home Rule
Joint Statement from All Members of the Common Council
Jun 24th, 2016 by Milwaukee Common CouncilMKE Plays, Sarah Zarate receive recognition from Public Policy Forum
News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Jun 20th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyThe Power of Common Ground
Nonprofit advocacy group has had huge impact on city, though some grumble about their tactics.
Jun 20th, 2016 by Virginia SmallMKE Plays offering summer jobs to youths and providing meals at new playgrounds
News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Jun 9th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyAldermen Unveil Anti-Violence Initiative
Hamilton and 11 other aldermen call for “holistic approach” to gun violence.
Jun 8th, 2016 by Jabril FarajMKE Plays the recipient of one of Bucks Foundation’s first grants
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy June 6, 2016
Jun 6th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyTwo New Playgrounds Opening
Park-like play areas for kids among 12 funded by $1.9 million raised by Ald. Murphy.
May 24th, 2016 by Edgar MendezAld. Hamilton Lives In Depressed Area
He rose from poverty to become council president. Can he help his neighborhood rise, too?
May 12th, 2016 by Michael HorneCity of Milwaukee Arts Board awards $217,000 to 33 arts organizations
Grantees will be honored June 14 at a 4:30 p.m. reception in the atrium of the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts followed by an awards program and celebration at 5 p.m.
May 12th, 2016 by City of Milwaukee Arts BoardHeroin study funding to go before Public Safety Committee
Since 2005, Milwaukee County has seen a 495% increase in heroin-related deaths.
May 11th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyMKE Plays awarded prestigious NEA grant
Funding to be used to incorporate art into program’s playground reconstruction projects
May 9th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyMKE Plays ready to transform Marcus DeBack Playground
Friday news event will include unveiling of major improvements at playground – one of six playground upgrades planned for Milwaukee during 2016
Apr 28th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyCity Hall’s Game of Thrones
Hail Ashanti! Ald. Hamilton's route to the Iron Throne laid bare.
Apr 28th, 2016 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil President Hamilton announces 2016-2020 committee assignments
News release from Alderman Ashanti Hamilton
Apr 26th, 2016 by Ald. Ashanti HamiltonChantia Lewis Backs Ashanti Hamilton for Common Council President
Alderwoman Chantia Lewis is supporting Alderman Ashanti Hamilton in his bid for Common Council President.
Apr 19th, 2016 by Ald. Chantia LewisMeet the New Boss
Ashanti Hamilton is new Common Council president, but how did he get the votes?
Apr 19th, 2016 by Jeramey JanneneStatement of 10th District Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Congratulations to Alderman Ashanti Hamilton on his election as Common Council President.
Apr 19th, 2016 by Ald. Michael MurphyDiverse coalition voices support for Alderman Hamilton as Council President
A diverse group of newly-elected and newly re-elected members of the Milwaukee Common Council today voiced their support for Alderman Ashanti Hamilton to serve as the next Common Council President.
Apr 18th, 2016 by Ald. Milele CoggsWill Murphy Lose Council Presidency?
Race could be wide open and Ashanti Hamilton might have surprising supporters.
Apr 6th, 2016 by Bruce MurphyReady to Work
I am looking forward to serving the interests of district residents on Milwaukee's Common Council.
Apr 3rd, 2016 by Mayor Cavalier JohnsonCommunity Forum Urges WISDOT to Scrap I-94 Expansion
Community Members & Elected Officials Call for Smarter Transportation Investments
Mar 31st, 2016 by Coalition for More Responsible TransportationAldermanic Candidates Address Key Issues
Quizzing candidates in four districts, including big battle of Chevy Johnson vs. Sherman Morton.
Mar 30th, 2016 by Edgar MendezHeroin Deaths Up 241% Since 2010
County's increase echoes national trend, with victims mostly white. Part I of series.
Mar 16th, 2016 by Wyatt MasseySt. Patrick’s Day Parade Returns to Downtown Milwaukee Saturday, March 12th
Week of Irish Entertainment Planned
Mar 7th, 2016 by Westown AssociationKenney Targets Ald. Borkowski
Should challenger win, would be only military veteran on Common Council.
Feb 24th, 2016 by Michael Horne2016 State of the City
Hmong American Peace Academy - February 8, 2016
Feb 8th, 2016 by Mayor Tom BarrettMilwaukee Arts Board Releases Applications for 2016 Project Grant Cycle
MAB encourages requests for funding from not-for-profit arts organizations offering arts programs, exhibits or performances that are open and accessible to the people of Milwaukee.
Jan 14th, 2016 by City of Milwaukee Arts BoardStreet Food Tapas for Brady Street
And a new pie place for 55th and North. Both places sound yummy.
Dec 23rd, 2015 by Jack FennimoreMr. Dye’s Pies opens retail store on North Avenue in Washington Heights
Offerings include key-lime, sweet potato, pecan and Mr. Dye’s Pies’ signature Purple Monster pies.
Dec 21st, 2015 by Press ReleaseWCD Board Says No Twice to Abele
Board won’t take over Marcus Center and won’t form committee to study idea. Might consider by 2020.
Dec 18th, 2015 by Virginia SmallAll Hail Our Business Improvement Districts
City party celebrates work of 35 BIDs, which have helped improve many city neighborhoods.
Dec 7th, 2015 by Michael HorneCould Marcus Center become downtown’s orphan venue?
Nov 20th, 2015 - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - Tom DaykinCommunity partners in Sherman Park to unveil new gateway sculpture
News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Nov 20th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyWisconsin Center District postpones plans to take over Marcus Center
Nov 20th, 2015 - BizTimes - Corrinne HessSupervisor Romo West Extends Gratitude for Heroin and Opiate Town Hall
Meeting to be Held at 5:30 p.m. Today at Italian Conference Center
Nov 16th, 2015 by Sup. Peggy A. WestTown hall meeting focused on heroin and opiates problem
Monday, November 16, 2015, 5:30PM-8:30PM (program at 6:15PM)
Nov 13th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyHomeless will get boost from Housing Trust Fund awards
Housing Trust Fund grants totaling $600,000 will help the homeless, provide rehabilitation for substance abuse, create jobs and help with homeowner repairs
Nov 12th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyTaking the Pulse of the 2016 Milwaukee Elections
Nov 5th, 2015 - Milwaukee Magazine - Larry SandlerCouncil approves 2016 budget focused on public safety, libraries and jobs
News release from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Nik Kovac
Nov 3rd, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommon Council set to vote Tuesday on budget
Nov 2nd, 2015 - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - Mary SpicuzzaGreater Milwaukee Foundation supports MKE Plays with special centennial gift
Three city playgrounds to be rebuilt through $200,000 investment; kickoff event set for Tuesday
Sep 25th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyNear West Side Business Improvement District Expansion Approved
BID #10 to expand to cover the entire Near West Side Neighborhood
Sep 24th, 2015 by Near West Side Partners, Inc.Bucks will break ground on arena in November, owners say, but when will real work begin?
Sep 23rd, 2015 - The Milwaukee Business Journal - Rich KirchenAld. Murphy seeks stronger non-relocation clause in Bucks arena lease
Sep 18th, 2015 - The Milwaukee Business Journal - Rich KirchenNew Arlington Heights Park Opens Soon
Ribbon cutting set for first MKE Plays playground at Arlington Heights Park
Sep 11th, 2015 by Edgar MendezVolunteers to build new playground Saturday at Merrill Park
More than 200 volunteers will help construct the new playground on Saturday.
Sep 10th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommon Ground’s $30 Million Victory for City
Pressure on Bucks owner Wes Edens results in Nationstar’s $30 million pledge to prevent foreclosures.
Sep 1st, 2015 by Bruce MurphyCommon Council President Michael J. Murphy announces committee changes
Alderman Borkowski, who won the August 18 special election, was appointed by President Murphy to the Community and Economic Development Committee.
Aug 31st, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyMemorial walk, stone dedication to honor Alderman Joe Dudzik
A memorial neighborhood walk and stepping stone dedication will be held on Saturday, August 29.
Aug 25th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommon Council will review arena plan in series of meetings beginning August 31
News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Aug 12th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyClarification on residency requirement in wake of Wisconsin Court of Appeals decision
Joint statement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy and Mayor Tom Barrett
Aug 7th, 2015 by Mayor Tom BarrettNew Center Brings Police Closer to People
Press conference celebrates opening of Near West Side Waypoint, a neighborhood center.
Aug 5th, 2015 by Jack FennimoreNear West Side Neighborhood Logo Unveiled
Launch of Near West Side website also announced
Jul 29th, 2015 by Near West Side Partners, Inc.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.
Jul 28th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyThe Man Behind Bob Donovan
Steve Schumacher handles all social media for mayoral hopeful. He also has a criminal record.
Jul 22nd, 2015 by Jeramey JanneneSenator Baldwin steps up on train bridge issue
Statement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy July 13, 2015
Jul 13th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil 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
Jul 9th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyMichael Murphy hits railroad for refusal to share bridge safety information
Jul 9th, 2015 - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - Crocker StephensonMartin Drive Residents Celebrate New Pavilion
Rain-harvesting pavilion provides water for Martin Drive garden.
Jun 28th, 2015 by Devi ShastriTransit Expansion Urged
Milwaukee is far behind other cities, which will make it harder to attract young workers, experts at conference agreed.
Jun 25th, 2015 by Michael HorneCelebrating the Life of Paul Jakubovich
A host of notables gathered to salute Jakubovich and the fabulous historic architecture of Milwaukee he helped protect.
Jun 22nd, 2015 by Michael HornePraying for police officer wounded in northwest side shooting
Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy June 19, 2015
Jun 19th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyCity 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.
Jun 9th, 2015 by Common Council President Jose PerezPresident Murphy schedules committee briefing on arena funding plan
Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy
Jun 4th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyPresident Murphy calls for special election for 11th District Council seat
News release from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy
Jun 2nd, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyCity Considers Lowering Penalties for Marijuana
Study shows 86% of those convicted of pot possession are African American.
May 31st, 2015 by Edgar MendezThe Only Saloon in Piggsville
And the Valley Inn is a dandy, with a nicely-restored 1898 building and all those photos (and stories!) of floods.
May 27th, 2015 by Michael HorneAld. Dudzik Killed in Motorcycle Crash
May 22nd, 2015 - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel - Mary SpicuzzaCity loses a dedicated public servant in Alderman Joe Dudzik
Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy May 22, 2015
May 22nd, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyProject to Improve Inner City Playgrounds Unveiled
Common Council President Michael Murphy leading effort to spend up to $1.9 million to upgrade 12 playgrounds.
May 17th, 2015 by Edgar MendezMilwaukee Arts Board awards $213,500 to 33 organizations
Steve VandeZande and Lori Bauman named Friends of the Arts
May 15th, 2015 by City of Milwaukee Arts BoardWill Historic Building in Third Ward Be Saved?
Third Ward review board defers decision on Historic Designation. And Milwaukee now has a Croatian sister city.
May 15th, 2015 by Michael HorneYouth Council to discuss MKE Peace Project role
Youth are being asked to submit written entries to be considered for the project, and an array prizes are also being offered for the top entries.
May 13th, 2015 by City of Milwaukee Youth CouncilAlderman Witkowski schedules report on MPD records failure
News release from Alderman Terry L. Witkowski
May 12th, 2015 by Ald. Terry WitkowskiWhere Will Sex Offenders Live?
Only a small percent are repeat offenders. Will local restrictions on residency force state to create uniform law?
May 2nd, 2015 by Jabril FarajVolunteers needed for Center Street business district
Center Street Marketplace BID 39’s purpose is to improve the negative perceptions of crime and safety between the boundaries of 34th and 58th Streets on W. Center St.
Apr 21st, 2015 by Ald. Russell Stamper, IIContinuing the search for solutions to tragic, senseless violence
Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy April 16, 2015
Apr 16th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyCharter School Leaders Say Oversight Needed
Republican plan for Milwaukee would allow high-performing charter schools to replicate without any approving authority.
Apr 7th, 2015 by Jabril FarajCommon Ground to Wesley Edens: $30 Million for Our City
Mayor Tom Barrett and President Michael Murphy Meet with Nationstar Mortgage to Discuss Second Wave of Foreclosure Crisis
Apr 1st, 2015 by Common Ground Southeastern WisconsinCity Plan Will Rescue The Worst Playgrounds
City and foundation money will be spent to upgrade the 12 most deteriorated playgrounds in Milwaukee.
Mar 25th, 2015 by Edgar MendezAlderman Murphy to welcome Irish delegation today
Milwaukee Common Council President Michael J. Murphy will welcome a visiting delegation from Ireland on Monday, the day before St. Patrick’s Day, as they tour the City of Milwaukee on a mission to connect Irish Americans with their homeland and promote business, trade and tourism.
Mar 16th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyCity of Milwaukee Career Fair is Thursday
“City service encompasses a vast array of jobs and careers, and this event provides a prime chance to discuss opportunities with representatives from several city departments.”
Mar 11th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphySt. Patrick’s parade is Saturday, March 14; event dates to 1843
The 140 units in the Irish celebration step off at noon on Wisconsin Ave. at Old World Third Street
Mar 9th, 2015 by Press ReleaseMayor Barrett’s 2015 State of the City Address
Monday, March 9th, 2015 - Alverno College
Mar 9th, 2015 by Mayor Tom BarrettJoe Davis Announces Plan for NBA Arena
Actually, it wasn't really a plan. But it was a press conference.
Mar 4th, 2015 by Michael HorneStreetcar Signing Is Quite a Celebration
The mayor, business leaders and pols toasted the streetcar in Cudahy's Irish Pub, with Michael Cudahy on hand.
Feb 13th, 2015 by Michael HorneMilwaukeean 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.
Feb 11th, 2015 by Michael HorneStreetcar vote a first step down the path to Milwaukee’s future
Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy February 10, 2015
Feb 10th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyMilwaukee Streetcar Approved
After years of debate, streetcar will finally move forward. Final engineering will begin immediately, and construction by the end of the year.
Feb 10th, 2015 by Jeramey JanneneCrowd Celebrates City Birthday Party
Politicians, PR people and other notables schmoozed away. The best rumor was that Chief Flynn might be retiring.
Feb 2nd, 2015 by Michael HorneMembers of the Common Council Respond to Ald. Dudzik’s Remarks
Joint Statement from members of the Common Council
Jan 23rd, 2015 by Milwaukee Common CouncilStreetcar Responses Shows Wide Support
Eleven out of 15 aldermanic districts, and 76 percent of all respondents support the proposed streetcar starter system.
Jan 22nd, 2015 by Jeramey JanneneTruth lies in the middle of Milwaukee Streetcar debate
Statement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy January 21, 2015
Jan 21st, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyStreetcar Approved, but Held
Large majority votes to approve streetcar, but parliamentary maneuver puts issue on hold until February 10th meeting.
Jan 21st, 2015 by Jeramey JanneneRibbon cutting, reception to mark opening of Center Street Park ice rink
Waterstone Bank Ice Rink at Center Street Park is open and free for the public to enjoy, nearly 25 years after the rink was closed because of budget cuts in the 1980s.
Jan 15th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyClarke Square
On just one block of W. Mineral St., the homes lost 43 percent of their value. Overcoming the foreclosure problem is a slow process.
Jan 9th, 2015 by Ben Greene, Courtney Perry and Patrick LearyLayton Boulevard West
South side neighborhood battles problem of 48 foreclosed homes.
Jan 8th, 2015 by Matt Barbato and Aaron MaybinFive Neighborhoods With Foreclosure Problems
First in a series on five city neighborhoods that still have many foreclosed and abandoned homes.
Jan 7th, 2015 by Matthew WislaStatement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy December 22, 2014
"It’s important, in the wake of the district attorney’s decision today, that we recognize first and foremost the pain that continues for the family of Dontre Hamilton."
Dec 22nd, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil approves Milwaukee Promise funding to help city neighborhoods
News release and maps document from Alderman Ashanti Hamilton
Dec 16th, 2014 by Ald. Ashanti HamiltonCouncil 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.
Dec 16th, 2014 by Jeramey JanneneThe Bizarre Politics of Ald. Tony Zielinski
Once a hard core conservative, he’s now a Bay View liberal. Except when opposing things like the streetcar.
Dec 4th, 2014 by Bruce MurphyHuge 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.
Nov 24th, 2014 by Michael HorneAmendments double funding for STRONG Homes Loan program
News release from Alds. Michael J. Murphy and Robert Bauman
Nov 19th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyBarrett 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.
Nov 18th, 2014 by Jeramey JanneneHeroin and Opiates 101 – A Neighborhood & Community Meeting
President Murphy hosting key meeting next week targeting parents, loved ones
Nov 12th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommon Council finds opportunities for efficiencies in 2015 approved budget
News release from Alds. Michael J. Murphy and Nik Kovac
Nov 10th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyMilwaukee 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.
Oct 29th, 2014 by Schools and Communities UnitedFinancial Planning Day offers free financial counseling & workshops
Milwaukee Financial Planning Day on Saturday, October 25.
Oct 23rd, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyJob fair offers employment, experience working on new NWM tower
Job fair offers employment, experience working on new NWM tower
Oct 17th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyRICH program, selling city-owned foreclosed homes for $1, receives unanimous Council support
ews release from Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II
Oct 14th, 2014 by Ald. Russell Stamper, IINew location for Saz’s Catering opening in Walker’s Point
Saz’s Catering has announced that they will move their operations to 201 W. Walker St.
Oct 9th, 2014 by Common Council President Jose PerezNews Conference: Ald. Coggs, President Murphy invite residents to foreclosure prevention session
News release from Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs and Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Sep 30th, 2014 by Ald. Milele CoggsUniversity Club renovation the first to make use of PACE energy efficiency funding
An iconic building in downtown Milwaukee with more than 85 years of history will soon be brought up-to-date with cost-saving, energy-efficient utilities
Sep 25th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyNonprofits 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.
Sep 23rd, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil members target enrollment incentives offered by charter schools
News release from Alds. Nik Kovac and Michael J. Murphy
Sep 23rd, 2014 by Nik KovacHamilton family and community deserve answers soon
Statement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy September 15, 2014
Sep 15th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyCity 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’
Sep 9th, 2014 by Michael HorneMIAD Opens New Residence Hall, Celebrates 40 Years
Half-birthday bash, half-ribbon cutting, the ceremony unveiled MIAD's new six-story, Third Ward building.
Aug 27th, 2014 by Jeramey JanneneNew business continues “green” trend at 51st and Blue Mound
Story Hill BKC, a wine bar and spirits shop serving an array of food and drink options, is opening fully today.
Aug 14th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyWork coming next week for stretch of heavily-traveled west side roadway
The stretch of N. Hawley Rd./N. 55th St. from W. Vliet St. to W. Lisbon Ave. will be closed to all traffic during high-impact paving work that will begin on Monday, July 28.
Jul 24th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil approves minimum hourly wage ordinance
Joint news release and file from Alderman Hamilton, Alderman Kovac and Alderwoman Coggs
Jul 22nd, 2014 by Ald. Ashanti HamiltonUber 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.
Jul 22nd, 2014 by Jeramey JanneneUWM Alumni Association Announces 2014 Alumni Award Recipients
Alumni and University friends recognized for their achievements and commitment to UWM
Jul 18th, 2014 by University of Wisconsin-MilwaukeeGimbel Gets Reappointed to Wisconsin Center Board
Will continue after 3 decades as board chair! Did mayor and governor swap appointments to make this happen?
Jul 16th, 2014 by Michael HorneMilwaukee Public Library Hires Sam McGovern-Rowen to Manage Library Development Project
Sam McGovern-Rowen will oversee the $21.5 million library branch redevelopment program.
Jun 5th, 2014 by Milwaukee Public LibraryRegional Symposium on Heroin/Opiates Addiction is Wednesday
Southeast Wisconsin Regional Heroin/Opiates Symposium will be held on Wednesday, June 4.
Jun 3rd, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyA less than adequate response on oversaturation of sex offenders in Milwaukee
Statement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy May 27, 2014
May 27th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil President Murphy and Alderman Stamper issue statements on girl’s shooting
The jointly issued statements below from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Russell W. Stamper II address the Clarke Street Elementary School playground shooting Wednesday
May 22nd, 2014 by Milwaukee Common CouncilFour Plans to Save the Bucks
But can any of the plans create the new NBA arena they need?
May 15th, 2014 by Bruce MurphyProposal would abolish taxi cab cap, allow mobile “rideshare” services
The new legislation will be introduced at the meeting of the Public Transportation Review Board that is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. tomorrow, May 9, in room 301-B of City Hall.
May 8th, 2014 by Ald. Bob BaumanTime for Milwaukee to stop leaving money on the table
At news conference, city leaders and IRS to tout importance of claiming Earned Income Tax Credit
Apr 3rd, 2014 by City of MilwaukeeWe Hate This Boston Store Subsidy!
Common Council members all complain about the TIF for Boston Store, then pass it 11-3.
Apr 3rd, 2014 by Dave ReidNew Champion of the City
New council president Michael Murphy is bluntly honest about state politicians in an interview.
Mar 17th, 2014 by Steven WaltersArts Projects Coming to Wisconsin Avenue
Greater Milwaukee Committee bringing two major art installations to Downtown and the Beer Line Bicycle Trail.
Mar 14th, 2014 by Michael HorneVliet Street Business Association Announces Winners of First Annual Business Awards
The Vliet Street Business Association recently announced the winners their first annual Business Awards at a happy hour sponsored by LISC Milwaukee and hosted by Meritage (5921 W. Vliet) on March 10.
Mar 13th, 2014 by Vliet Street Business AssociationSB324 approval wrong for Milwaukee, wrong for voters
Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy
Mar 12th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyWisconsin Center’s Leadership Adrift?
Many of the board's seats are either vacant or held by legally unqualified individuals.
Mar 10th, 2014 by Michael HorneWalker Delays On Three Tough Issues
No decision before election on new Bucks arena, proposed Kenosha casino and how to fund new highway construction.
Mar 10th, 2014 by Steven WaltersSurveillance camera grant program will target businesses, commercial corridors
Launch news conference set for Friday on city’s near south side
Mar 4th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyMayor Tom Barrett’s 2014 State of the City Address
Milwaukee February 24, 2014 As Prepared for Delivery
Feb 24th, 2014 by Mayor Tom BarrettUnder 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.
Feb 14th, 2014 by Nik KovacCommon Council President Murphy announces election for 15th District
The start date for circulating nomination papers was February 11.
Feb 13th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyMurphy Announces New Committee Assignments
The changes aren't radical but big winner is Ald. Kovac, who becomes chair of Finance and vice-chair of Steering and Rules.
Feb 12th, 2014 by Michael HorneStrengths, 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.
Feb 12th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyStatement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy
I deeply appreciate and am greatly humbled by the trust and confidence entrusted in me by my colleagues.
Feb 11th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyBetting on the Common Council
Haven't got your fix with the Super Bowl? Gamble with friends on who will be the next council president.
Feb 2nd, 2014 by Jeramey JanneneHuge 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.
Jan 31st, 2014 by Michael HorneAlderman Murphy on announcement by Council President Willie Hines
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy January 31, 2014
Jan 31st, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyCity of Milwaukee Artist of the Year
Evelyn Patricia Terry, an artist, educator, and curator, and Barbara Leigh, co-founder of what has become the Milwaukee Public Theatre, were named Artists of the Year, the Milwaukee Arts Board announced today.
Jan 27th, 2014 by 1000 Friends of WisconsinCity’s pension fund outperforms state, Milwaukee County funds in 2013
The City of Milwaukee Employes’ Retirement System (CMERS) pension fund’s preliminary year-end results show the fund earned a return of 19.6%, gross of fees.
Jan 17th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyMayor Barrett Announces Stolen Thumb Drive Recovered
Jump drive with confidential city employee information found by Milwaukee police
Jan 9th, 2014 by Mayor Tom BarrettSpotlight on pension crises in other cities provides perspective
Significant pension crises in Chicago and Detroit provide an opportunity for the City of Milwaukee to reflect on how it has managed to achieve the top-rated public fund (Pew Charitable Trusts report, dated January 2013) in the U.S., according to Alderman Michael J. Murphy.
Dec 6th, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyBike-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.
Dec 5th, 2013 by Ald. Bob BaumanCity leaders are right to crack down on duty disability retirement abuse
Statement of Alderman Joe Davis, Sr. December 2, 2013
Dec 2nd, 2013 by Joe Davis, Sr.Common Council approves Housing Trust Fund grant award projects
Housing Trust Fund grants totaling $406,000 for affordable and supportive housing projects
Nov 26th, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyMilwaukee’s Common Council Allows 100 More Taxis on City Streets
City responds to drivers’ court victory, but keeps unconstitutional cap on cabs. Lottery will determine who gets to go into business.
Nov 26th, 2013 by Institute for JusticePriorities and services maintained in Council-approved 2014 budget
The 2014 amended city budget approved today by the Milwaukee Common Council addresses key priorities and maintains quality city services at current levels.
Nov 1st, 2013 by Willie HinesMilwaukee budget for 2014 gets high marks in Public Policy Forum report
The non-partisan Public Policy Forum is giving the City of Milwaukee positive marks for the proposed 2014 city budget.
Oct 14th, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyNews conference will highlight options available at Foreclosure Prevention Event
The City of Milwaukee joins Take Root Milwaukee to invite people area residents who are facing foreclosure to a special event this week.
Oct 8th, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyRepublican Dog & Pony Show
Legislators Vos and Darling tour city but offer no solutions. So why did they come?
Aug 22nd, 2013 by Bruce MurphyNew 4-Story Apartment Complex for Brewers’ Hill
A 53-unit apartment building is proposed at a controversial site on Holton Street.
Jul 10th, 2013 by Dave ReidPACE 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.
Jul 2nd, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyCity of Milwaukee to Defend State Constitution
Joint statement of Mayor Tom Barrett, Common Council President Willie L. Hines, Jr. and Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Jul 2nd, 2013 by City of MilwaukeeLegislators think they know what’s best for Milwaukee neighborhoods
Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy June 20, 2013
Jun 20th, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyMilwaukee Recognized as ‘Playful City USA’ Community
Sign unveiling event Monday will feature Alderman Murphy, Mayor Barrett and MPS representative
Jun 14th, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyCity pension changes projected to save more than $90 million
Pension changes approved today by the full Common Council will save the city approximately $93 million over the next 20 years, Alderman Michael J. Murphy said.
May 21st, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyCelebrate Bike to Work Week with Mayor Tom Barrett, Alderpersons, and The Wisconsin Bike Federation
Bike to Work Week is May 13-18, 2013
May 10th, 2013 by City of MilwaukeeCity Nonprofits Avoid Residency Debate
One community leader castigates non-profits for not taking a stand on state proposal to end city residency requirement.
Apr 23rd, 2013 by Edgar MendezMyths About a New NBA Arena
In their zeal to build new, publicly-funded arena, proponents are misleading the community.
Apr 16th, 2013 by Bruce MurphyNew report casts doubts on sports venues economic impact claims
Alderman Murphy believes the report will be a valuable tool in the upcoming debate over the future of Milwaukee’s BMO Harris Bradley Center.
Apr 5th, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyPolitics & Poetry II
Aldermen join seasoned poets to tout today's election and celebrate the memory of poet Anita Brooks.
Apr 2nd, 2013 by Grace FuhrReferendum on same-day registration a chance to make residents’ voices heard
Joint Statement from members of the Common Council
Apr 1st, 2013 by Milwaukee Common CouncilImportant information from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that's of critical importance to our future.
Mar 28th, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyAttack on residency continues Governor’s “divide and conquer” strategy
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy February 25, 2013
Mar 28th, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyJournal Sentinel Story Doesn’t Hold Water
Story slams Milwaukee water utility though it’s actually cheaper than others in the region.
Mar 26th, 2013 by Bruce MurphyMilwaukee Arts Board recognizes Outstanding Artists of the Year
The Milwaukee Arts Board will honor the recipients of its Outstanding Artists of the Year award on Tuesday, March 12, 2013.
Mar 11th, 2013 by Press ReleaseFreeway Expansion Could Move South
I-94 could be straightened to run through current Miller Park parking lots. Brewers are open to this option.
Mar 11th, 2013 by Gretchen SchuldtDouble-Decker Freeway For Milwaukee?
Rising 40 feet high, it could be destructive to the Story Hill neighborhood.
Mar 5th, 2013 by Gretchen SchuldtPublic Service Commission loses sight of the public interest in power line decision
Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy March 1, 2013
Mar 1st, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyAttack on residency continues Governor’s “divide and conquer” strategy
Governor Walker’s state budget proposal to end residency requirements for municipalities statewide is one of the most serious and direct attacks on local control and local governance in the history of the State of Wisconsin.
Feb 25th, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyMayor Barrett’s 2013 State of the City Address
Monday, February 25, 2013, Pritzlaff Building
Feb 25th, 2013 by Mayor Tom BarrettEvery Politician in Town
Well, not quite, but the City's Birthday Party had a big turnout of politicians and insiders.
Feb 5th, 2013 by Michael HorneThe City Milwaukee Wins National Praise for the Management of its Pension System
Mayor Barrett Congratulates Fellow City Leaders for the Honor
Jan 16th, 2013 by Mayor Tom BarrettNone better than city’s pension system, national report shows
The City of Milwaukee Employes’ Retirement System (CMERS) is rated at the top of city pension systems in the U.S., according to a report just released by the Pew Charitable Trusts.
Jan 16th, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil 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.
Dec 20th, 2012 by Milwaukee Common CouncilDouble-decker freeway, annexations among concerning options at I-94 hearings
Double-decker freeway, annexations among concerning options at I-94 hearings.
Dec 3rd, 2012 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommon Council Approves Picks for Housing Trust Fund Awards
A total of $830,391 in Housing Trust Fund grants will help the homeless, low-income renters and neighborhoods affected by oreclosures
Nov 8th, 2012 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommon Council makes cuts in approved budget, preserves property tax relief
The 2013 amended city budget approved today by the Milwaukee Common Council provides some property tax relief for residents, while holding steady on crucial city services.
Nov 2nd, 2012 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCWNA annual meeting Thursday to feature elected official town hall
Aldermen Michael J. Murphy and Jim Bohl invite residents to the Annual Meeting of the Capitol West Neighborhood Association at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 18, 2012 at the St. Matthew Evangelical Lutheran Church Hall.
Oct 16th, 2012 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCommon 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.
Oct 2nd, 2012 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCommon Council to deliberate on Mayor’s proposed 2013 City Budget
Today, Mayor Tom Barrett delivered a 2013 proposed executive budget to the Milwaukee Common Council that provides some relief to property taxpayers, includes no employee layoffs and maintains police staffing, but also includes an agreement to have the city absorb police patrols in parks and 911 communications duties from the county.
Sep 27th, 2012 by Milwaukee Common CouncilU.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.
Sep 27th, 2012 by Milwaukee Common CouncilState funds for BMO/Harris Bradley Center helpful; others could also be helped
In my view, I do not see this move as a flip flop on the part of the Governor .
Sep 14th, 2012 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommon Council Sets Standards for Elementary School Playgrounds
The Milwaukee Common Council today passed a measure that will require all new elementary schools in the city to provide a minimum amount of safe, open play space to help children stay healthy and active.
Sep 5th, 2012 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCandidates should make position known on Disclose Act
American politics today is bursting at the seams with money, and most of it is donated anonymously. That lack of transparency is troubling to Alderman Michael J. Murphy and to members of the Common Council.
Aug 17th, 2012 by Ald. Michael MurphyTragedy in Oak Creek
Joint Statement from Members of the Common Council
Aug 6th, 2012 by Milwaukee Common CouncilPreliminary Budget Hearing Invitation
The City of Milwaukee will hold a 2013 Preliminary Budget Hearing to ensure the 2013 City of Milwaukee Budget addresses the needs of our community. Mayor Tom Barrett, Finance and Personnel Committee Chair, Alderman Michael Murphy, Budget Director Mark Nicolini and budget staff will provide information regarding the budget planning process and give attendees an opportunity to share input on City services. City residents are encouraged to attend. Monday, August 13, 2012 6:00-7:30 p.m. Zeidler Municipal Building 841 North Broadway, Rm. 102
Aug 6th, 2012 by Mayor Tom BarrettA Really Rocky Road
Opponents succeed in delaying the reappointment of DCD Commissioner Rocky Marcoux, sending a message to Marcoux and Mayor Barrett.
Jul 25th, 2012 by Dave ReidBike-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.
Jul 9th, 2012 by Ald. Bob BaumanRocky Road
Some aldermen want to dump DCD head Rocky Marcoux, but Mayor Barrett disagrees.
Jun 26th, 2012 by Bruce MurphyWatching 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.
Jun 22nd, 2012 by Milwaukee Common CouncilEvent Wednesday will tout summer safety in the city
Alderman Michael J. Murphy will join representatives from the Milwaukee Police Department and the Milwaukee Fire Department to encourage safe summer activities for children. The event will take place tomorrow at 12:30 p.m. at the entrance to Washington Park Pool, 1859 N. 40th St.
Jun 19th, 2012 by Ald. Michael MurphyMayor Barrett Encourages City Employees To Say “Not Me” To Diabetes
The City of Milwaukee is among the first public sector employers in the state to offer employees the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program, a 12-month lifestyle behavior intervention designed especially for people with prediabetes, the clinical precursor for type 2 diabetes. To screen its employees at the highest risk for diabetes, the City will host UnitedHealthcare’s 18-wheel mobile testing clinic at City Hall.
Jun 19th, 2012 by Mayor Tom BarrettTour the Talgo Trains You Might Never Ride
Downtown block parties are coming, use of bike racks on MCTS buses doubles year-over-year, explore the Historic Concordia neighborhood with HMI, UWM gets a zoning change, The Moderne is meeting hiring requirements, and kids can ride free on the Amtrak Hiawatha this summer.
May 17th, 2012 by Jeramey JanneneHas the Clock Run Out for the Sydney Hih?
The historic Sydney Hih building, which city officials had intended to tear down, may have been saved for another day, due to a legalistic maneuver by alderman and attorney Bob Baumann at a Tuesday meeting of the Common Council’s Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee.
May 15th, 2012 by Dave ReidHines 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.
Apr 4th, 2012 by Jeramey JanneneZoning 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.
Feb 23rd, 2012 by Dave ReidKey Riverwalk Project Held at Committee
Most of Milwaukee's riverwalk system has been built as a public-private partnership as new developments occurred, but a file before yesterday's Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development committee proposed that the City of Milwaukee fund a short section of the system. City staff determined that an 80-foot stretch along Erie St., between River Renaissance and Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, is unlikely to see new development in the foreseeable future.
Feb 1st, 2012 by Dave ReidMilwaukee Moves Forward!
Council committee moves forward with the streetcar.
Jul 15th, 2011 by Dave ReidMarriott Hotel Project Wins Appeal on 3-2 Vote at Zoning Committee
At yesterday's meeting of the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee Jackson Street Management LLC won an appeal of the Historic Preservation Commission's ruling regarding their request to demolish five buildings within the East Side Commercial Historic District to make way for a new Marriott Hotel.
Jan 14th, 2011 by Dave ReidGroup 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.
Oct 21st, 2010 by Jeramey JanneneDowntown Plan Gains Approval at Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee
Department of City Development staff presented the Downtown Plan Update at the September 15th 2010 Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee meeting. Similar to the City Plan Commission meeting staff presented the overall themes and the eight catalytic projects, which are geared towards increasing density and connectivity throughout downtown, whiles creating a sense of place.
Sep 16th, 2010 by Dave ReidThe Moderne Project Held for Special Committee Meeting
The Moderne, if approved, would be located at 1141 N. Old World Third St.
Oct 27th, 2009 by Dave ReidPark East Art Gallery
The Park East corridor is temporarily filled with art, and it’s well worth your time to check out. Approved by the Milwaukee Arts Board, the temporary installation draws attention to the history and unique character of the land formerly occupied by a freeway. Alderman Michael Murphy, chair of the Milwaukee Arts Board, held a press conference today to officially open the project to the public.
Aug 24th, 2009 by Jeramey JanneneCity to Use Eminent Domain?
This meeting had a couple of topics of particular interest, the use of eminent domain, and TIF policy.
Jun 11th, 2009 by Dave ReidM.O.R.E. – Common Council March 25th, 2009 Meeting Notes
The M.O.R.E ordinance was the most widely debated action taken at this Common Council meeting.
Mar 26th, 2009 by Dave ReidM.O.R.E. Ordinance Approved by F&P Committee
The controversial M.O.R.E ordinance which had been sent to committee at the previous Common Council meeting was further debated at this Finance & Personnel Committee meeting.
Mar 23rd, 2009 by Dave ReidCity Moves Forward With Water Initiative
Planning for the future of Milwaukee as the Fresh Coast appears to be moving ahead.
Mar 21st, 2009 by Dave ReidContentious 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 […]
Mar 4th, 2009 by Dave ReidCommittee Not Happy With Zoo Interchange Plan
The Wisconsin DOT presented the most recent plans for the reconstruction of the Zoo Interchange. The project team argued that because of the age of the interchange, number of accidents, and predicted congestion that the interchange needs to be rebuilt and widened. They presented multiple options, all of which included the relocation of at least 13 residential homes, one business and would cut the parking lot at State Fair in half. It was pointed out that the under the plans now being considered there will be no impact to the Honey Creek Business Park. The design includes additional lanes and new frontage roads, referred to as Texas U-Turns, that essentially double the footprint of the highway. Alderman Bob Bauman expressed that the Wisconsin DOT seems to always push for freeway expansion saying that “no one ever talks about the no build option” and that “this a stealth widening of the Milwaukee freeway system”. In response to a series of questions and comments regarding transit options, Ms. Brown, from the Wisconsin DOT, responded that “transit is not considered as part of the construction of the interchange”. Alderman Murphy expressed the committee’s belief that the Wisconsin DOT has ignored multi-modal options at the expense of the City of Milwaukee saying that “the way they (Wisconsin DOT) set up this planning they specifically excluded it”. Wisconsin DOT staff repeatedly pointed to SEWRPC’s planning as their guiding direction and Ms. Brown reiterated “that (rail) is not an option given the schedule and time frame”. Near the end of the meeting Alderman Bauman summed up the committee’s message to the Wisconsin DOT saying “carry back the message you don’t have any happy campers”.
Jan 30th, 2009 by Dave ReidCommon Council Retains Five Member Firefighter Crews
The most notably items on the agenda were the Common Council's actions regarding Mayor Barrett's vetoes.
Nov 26th, 2008 by Dave ReidEast 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.
Nov 21st, 2008 by Dave ReidCommittee 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").
Oct 28th, 2008 by Dave ReidGoll Mansion Project – Common Council October 7th, 2008 Meetings Notes
Although only briefly discussed, the most controversial item approved today was the change in zoning for New Land Enterprises' 26-story condominium tower to be built behind the historic Goll Mansion.
Oct 7th, 2008 by Dave ReidCommon Council Approves New Berlin Water Deal
This meeting included three highly debated resolutions, the “Wheel Tax”, the 9to5 direct legislation regarding sick pay, the water sale to New Berlin and the retirement of one of the most highly respected government officials. Marty Collins the outgoing Commissioner of the Department of Neighborhood Services gave a heartfelt farewell speech stating “I’m proud to be a public servant”. Then he left with some suggestions and encouraged the Common Council and city staff to promote creativity to find solutions.When the resolution known as the “Wheel Tax” came up for discussion Alderman Jim Witkowiak offered an amendment that would cap the fee at $20 for the duration of the current Common Council. Although Alderman Michael Murphy explained that this amendment wasn’t meaningful because it could simply be overridden with a resolution in the future. Another amendment was offered by Alderman Joe Dudzik that would allow a portion of the vehicle registration fee to support street maintenance. Again it was suggested that this amendment had little value because it will be up to the budgetary process to determine that actual spending. Both of these amendments and the overall resolution passed with a veto proof majority and will no go to the Mayor for action.Another hot button resolution was the piece of direct legislation brought forward by the group 9to5, National Association of Women by obtaining 42,000 signatures in sixty days. The intention of the resolution is to force employers within the City of Milwaukee to give all employees paid sick time. Alderman Bob Donovan spoke out against the resolution saying that “this resolution may end up hurting the very same people it is intended to help”. Alderman Jim Bohl also expressed his concerns that this would resolution hurt business and that “if jobs leave this community there are no benefits to be had”. The Common Council had two options regarding this resolution, either adopt it immediately without changes or let it go to binding referendum. The Common Council voted to let it go to referendum.The most hotly debated issue of the day was the proposed water sale and the associated intergovernmental agreement with New Berlin. Alderman Robert Bauman initially questioned the legality of the water sale saying that his concerns were “beyond the question of policy” because this transaction was outside the bounds of what the Common Council had approved in December of 2007. He questioned if the sale was proper because the original authorization to negotiate was in reference to an area of New Berlin within the current Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (“MMSD”) service area while this transaction included a portion of New Berlin that is planned to be in the MMSD service area sometime in the future. Alderman Murphy agreed that “the department made a mistake without a doubt” but that the City of Milwaukee needs to move forward with this transaction or New Berlin may find another solution.The intergovernmental agreement with New Berlin included a non-compete clause and a $1.5 million payment to the City of Milwaukee. The non-compete […]
Jul 31st, 2008 by Dave ReidPublic Works Committee Approves New Berlin Water Deal
This meeting’s highlights included the proposed water sale to New Berlin and the reappointment of Jeff Mantes to the Commissioner the Department of Public Works.The water sale involved two separate resolutions. Resolution 080012 would handle the actual water sale and resolution 080011 will enact an intergovernmental agreement contingent on the water sale. Water sales are regulated by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (“PSC“) which sets the wholesale price of water and oversees water contracts. Because of this any additional constraints beyond the sales agreement had to handled in an intergovernmental agreement. This intergovernmental agreement included a non-compete clause between the cities as well as a one time $1.5 million payment to the City of Milwaukee from New Berlin to offset some of the potential economic impact associated with this transaction. Further as this agreement proposes the sale of water outside of the Great Lakes Basin it follows the requirements set for within the Great Lakes Compact.New Berlin is seeking to obtain the additional water source to support the middle third of the city, to large extent because of high levels of the radium existing in their water and the depletion of their aquifer. During the discussion it was brought up, that if New Berlin isn’t able to purchase water from the City of Milwaukee that New Berlin may spend $4 million on an upgrade to their facilities or pursue purchasing water from Oak Creek. Both of these options were potentially more expensive for New Berlin than purchasing from the City of Milwaukee but Jack F. Chiovatero, the Mayor of New Berlin, indicated the pressing need by stating that “I wouldn’t be sitting in front off you if I didn’t have the radium issue”.Alderman Robert Bauman repeatedly made the point that New Berlin fails to meet the City of Milwaukee’s guidelines for water sales. These guidelines are based on access to mass transit and affordable housing within the community wishing to purchase water. Further he pointed out that this resolution does not reflect the original authorization to negotiate as passed by the Common Council in December 2007. In addition to Alderman Bauman’s vocal opposition various organizations such as the Good Jobs & Livable Neighborhoods Coalition, the Metropolitan Milwaukee Fair Housing Council, and the ACLU spoke out in opposition to the water sale. This opposition stems from the idea that sending water to sprawling communities without adequate housing or transit options makes access to the new jobs, that this transaction will support, near impossble for low-income residents of Milwaukee to access. In addition to those concerns Bill Holahan, the Chairman of the UWM Department of Economics stated that “over the next 20 years the expansion out there will swamp the $1.5 million” and that “economic value of the water is probably not reflected in the $1.5 million”. Despite these issues and concerns the resolution was approved and sent to a special meeting of the Finance & Personnel Committee held prior to July 30th’s Common Council Meeting.The other contentious item was the […]
Jul 30th, 2008 by Dave ReidPublic Works Committee Holds Up Appointments
The reappointment of Jeff Mantes to the position of Commission of the Department of Public Works and the reappointment of Jeff Polenske to the position of City Engineer were held to the call of the chair to start off this meeting. As numerous reappointments have flown through as of late it appears this may be in response to friction the Common Council has had working with the Department of Public Works. Specifically the Common Council has expressed their concern with how DPW handled snow plowing, leaf removal, and various street improvements. File number 080238 is a grouping of numerous assessable public improvements that included items such as street and alley re-construction. Similar files have experienced an ongoing problem whereas approximately half of individual projects are deleted because property owners are unwilling to pay exorbitantly high assessments. This has lead to the slow crumbling of city streets and ever increasing maintenance costs. Alderman Bob Donovon expressed his displeasure at Mayor Tom Barrett‘s unwillingness to replace the current assessment system with a recently proposed vehicle registration fee, by stating “I am hoping that this administration and the alderman in this community have the guts to move forward and do the right thing in changing the way we pay for paving projects.” This file was approved with numerous deletions and will move on to the Common Council for approval. File number 080195 is an ordinance relating to storm water management regulations. Alderman Michael Murphy argued that this resolution is important to because the “leading cause of pollution to our water system is really through non-point water sources” and this resolution targets those sources. Those sources includes streets and parking lots and this resolution address ways to reduce the amount of paved area which improves the grounds ability to absorb storm water. This resolution was passed and will go before the City Plan Commission for approval.
Jun 21st, 2008 by Dave ReidZoning Committee Halts Empowerment Village
Although, this Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee meeting had a light schedule it did have one item of significance. Resolution 071292 and resolution 071181 made up the proposal for the re-zoning and sale of the city owned land located at the intersection of South Fifth Court and West Rosedale Avenue. This project which is better known as Empowerment Village pitted members in support of affordable housing versus environmental groups over a piece of city owned land. The environmental groups challenged the city’s right to sell the land and argued that during the Southeast Side Planning process this land had always been planned as a green space that would include a bike trail along the Kinnickinnic River. Alderman Michael Murphy pointed out that “we have to balance the needs”. But despite his words and Cardinal Capital‘s efforts to work with the environmental groups to alleviate their concerns by decreasing the size of the building, by paying for the bike trail to be built and by putting a conservation easement in place to protect much of the land as open space a compromise couldn’t be found. The committee voted to place on file these resolutions essentially denying this project from moving forward. The site location is pictured below via Google Maps Street View. View Larger Map
May 17th, 2008 by Dave ReidBreaking Down the 2008-2012 Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee
The 2008-2012 Common Council committee appointments were announced this week and it appears Common Council President Willie Hines, Jr. put together a qualified group to sit on the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee. Alderman James Witkowiak, Chair Alderman Willie Wade, V-C Alderman Michael Murphy Alderman Robert Bauman Alderman T. Anthony Zielinski The biggest change comes at the top of the committee where Alderman Witkowiak will be replacing out going Alderman D’Amato as the committee chairman. Alderman Witkowiak is a good choice for this role because the 5th Ward is starting to take off and the new Chairman will play a large role in shaping future development in the district. Additionally he has extensive experience working on neighborhood issues, from his time as Chairman of the License Committee, that should translate well to ZND. This ability to work with neighborhoods will be critical to the success of the committee due to the consistent need to work on neighborhood complaints surrounding development projects. Returning members Alderman Wade, Alderman Murphy, and Alderman Bauman have not necessarily always agreed on issues but generally work well together and come at an issue with solid arguments. Alderman Wade has shown he understand the value of density and of growing the city through development. Alderman Murphy’s knowledge of passed Common Council actions and his work on water related issues makes him a vital member of this committee. As the City of Milwaukee moves forward on mass transit efforts such as the KRM project, BRT, or the downtown streetcar effort Alderman Bauman’s history with mass transit issues should also be invaluable. Although Alderman Zielinski is new to ZND he brings a background in environmental efforts that could lead the committee to explore more green based zoning initiatives. As a group it will be interesting to watch their handling of projects as they have the characteristics to continue the steady march of redevelopment the City of Milwaukee has seen in recent years.
Apr 27th, 2008 by Dave ReidZoning Committee Considers Additional Aloft TIF Funds
Resolution 071392 was likely to be very controversial given its intent to authorize additional funding for Tax Incremental District No. 48 (Park East) which would support the development of a Riverwalk section along the proposed Aloft site. Resolutions related to TIF financing often spark vigorous debate on how the funding should be allocated, what additionally requirements will be asked of the developer, and does this project truly require assistance. This resolution was no different as members of the Good Jobs and Livable Neighborhoods Coalition were present and looking to push this development project to be required to pay prevailing wages and additional requirements similar to the community benefits agreements they have pushed in the past. The debate will wait until next month as this item was held to allow Committee members time to obtain additional information about the proposal. Another contentious resolution, 070548, proposed allowing electronic changeable billboards to change advertisements every eight seconds. Alderman Bob Bauman and Alderman Michael Murphy expressed concerns over the possibility of driver distraction and light pollution that this change may cause. Although no citizens appeared to speak in opposition to this resolution Murphy pointed out “the media has for whatever reason doesn’t cover city government like they used to” indicating that with wider coverage he felt citizens would be opposed to this resolution. In the end it passed on a narrow three to two vote with both Bauman and Murphy opposing the resolution.
Mar 16th, 2008 by Dave ReidZoning Committee Responds to Court Ruling
This meeting of the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee was quite unusual in that it was held in response to the court case Dawn McCarthy vs. The City of Milwaukee City. The case revolves around the city’s handling of a minor modification to the Detail Planned Development known has Downer Avenue Redevelopment Phase I. The court ruled that there were possible open meetings violations during some Historic Preservation Commission subcommittee meetings so to insure all information was publicly heard the judge ordered this meeting to be held. It is important to note the judge did not stop construction and didn’t expect the city to vote on the resolution in question. Peter Kovac, one of the Plaintiffs in the case, made comments indicating the city had re-opened the issue prompting Alderman Mike D’Amato to respond by saying “you seemed to of re-opened the whole issue”. Alderman Bob Bauman was heard saying “let him go on for two hours” expressing his frustration with the repetitive testimony and the proceeds. Despite Alderman Michael Murphy‘s concern over setting a precedent by passing a resolution in response to the direction of the court, the committee unanimously approved resolution 071365 reasserting the previously passed resolution.
Feb 18th, 2008 by Dave ReidCommittee Appoints Whitney Gould to Planning Commission
Approving Whitney Gould‘s appointment to the City Plan Commission was the highlight of this meeting. The Committee made it clear that in her former position as the Journal Sentinel’s architecture writer she played an important role in improving Milwaukee’s urban environment and hoped she would bring her enthusiasm and knowledge to the Commission. The Committee also approved resolution 071307 which if approved by the full Common Council will allocate $1.4 Million dollars from the Housing Trust Fund to support five affordable housing projects. One example of these projects is the St. Catherine’s Residence at 1018 E. Knapp Street. It will receive $264,000 to build affordable housing for low-income women and it is already under construction. Alderman Michael Murphy pointed out that this $1.4 million will generate $26 million worth of development and went on to say that these projects do two things “one economic development and… two do the right thing”. The Northwest Side Area Comprehensive Plan was presented again as it had been held before to allow the Department of City Development to address issues that the committee felt the plan didn’t incorporate. Specifically items were added to insure existing rail corridors are reserved for future mass transit options and encouraged creating transit oriented development projects along those rail lines if they are ever converted to passenger service. Other areas of that plan that were improved included refinements of the 76th and Good Hope project, additional recommendations for the vacant transit hub at 76th and Mill, and addressed the potential reuse of Timmerman Airport if it were to be closed. One setback for the project was Alderman Jim Bohl‘s push to remove DCD’s suggested language regarding cul-de-sacs and their desire to better connect streets. This prompted Alderman Mike D’Amato to take a light hearted shot at Bohl by saying, “we hope you haven’t eliminated all the sidewalks from the Northwest side”. Additionally two closed sessions were held to discuss strategy with the City’s lawyers regarding the court case Dawn McCarthy vs. the City of Milwaukee. This case involves the City’s handling of the development of a City owned surface parking lot on Downer Ave. Despite the courts apparent concern the judge hasn’t stopped construction and development continues at a brisk pace.
Jan 31st, 2008 by Dave ReidZoning Committee Hears the Northwest Side Area Comprehensive Plan
The Northwest Side Area Comprehensive Plan, resolution 070933, was presented to the ZND committee seeking approved but it faced multiple criticisms that needed addressing. First Alderman Bauman explained that the northwest side has significant rail infrastructure and because of this there is “tremendous potential on the Northwest side” for transit oriented development, improved mass transit and enhanced mobility. Unfortunately the plan didn’t include any reference to this infrastructure so Alderman Bob Bauman suggested that the plan “go back to the drawing board.” Secondly, Timmerman Airport came up as multiple committee members expressed the likely hood of the site being redeveloped in the future and that the plan only lightly touched upon the topic. Finally Alderman Jim Bohl promoted suburban style development by expressing his concerns for DCD’s desire to encourage through streets and discourage cul–da-sacks. Due to these issues, the plan was held to allow DCD to incorporate more of these topics into the plan. Resolution 070609 was seeking approval of the Grede Foundry site for redevelopment which required a change in zoning from Industrial-Heavy to General Planned Development. Although some parts of the plan such as multistory buildings fronting the street and parking to be located behind the buildings were appropriate the design also left 65% of the 5 1/4 acres dedicated to surface parking. The committee compared the design to a “suburban office park” and concluded it was not appropriate for a near downtown site. And although Alderman Murphy suggested holding the file, the developer pressed forward prompting Alderman Bauman to make a motion placing it on file which prevailed 5-0 and essentially stopped this project. Resolution 071131 was seeking approval of the sale of the city owned lot located at 1027 N. Edison St to Edison Green, LLC. As was recently reported this eight-story mixed-use development will be located near the eastern terminus of the Highland Ave. pedestrian bridge and will include 25 residential units, first floor retail, office space and a banquet hall. The northern portion of the site will remain green space allowing access for the condos to the north and as part of the developments attempt to gain LEED certification. Further that portion of land also contains MMSD sewer infrastructure and police lines which would make development prohibitively expensive. The building will have five shared Prius cars, mopeds and a community boat allowing residents to go without owning a car or boat. Further the green roof will have hot tubs heated by solar panels and possibly small wind turbines on the roof. In general the neighboring condominium association appeared supportive of the proposal with their remaining concern being access to the green space to access their riverfront yards. The projects innovative and green approach was appreciated by the committee. Alderman Michael Murphy commented that this project is a “very thoughtful idea” but Alderman Wade expressed his appreciation strongest by stating “I got one thing to say Wow!” The resolution was approved with the understanding that the solution to the access issue will be agreed […]
Dec 6th, 2007 by Dave ReidCity To Fund Building Redevelopment
In a rare move, the city is going to provide Compass Properties LLC with $3.2 million to repair their two Water Street properties immediately north of the 100 East Wisconsin building.
Oct 3rd, 2007 by Jeramey JanneneWi-Fi Deal Dead
"City will court other Wi-Fi providers" -- Ald. Michael J. Murphy
Sep 8th, 2006 by Michael HorneNew Home for Lord?
Lord has been looking at the old Lou Fritzel building with owner Peter J. Kondos.
Mar 7th, 2005 by Michael HorneRiemer: “Ready to Run”
This terse note from Riemer almost sounds like a Bill Christofferson soundbite, which means it's a good one.
Feb 14th, 2005 by Michael HorneAt it Again
Alderman asked to make big money decision on 24 hour notice.
Feb 7th, 2005 by Michael HorneMequon Turns Voter Away
The City of Mequon told a local man who tried to register and vote at City Hall last week that he was “too late.”
Nov 1st, 2004 by Michael HorneCrisses Averted
Barrett and Walker Announce Plan for Ballots in Milwaukee
Oct 11th, 2004 by Michael HorneLautenschlager’s Fast Ones – Past Speeding Tickets Raise Residency Issues
Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager exploits a legal loophole.
Mar 29th, 2004 by Michael HorneOn the Fundraiser Trail
David Riemer held a fundraiser and art auction to advance his bid for County Executive. Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design was the place, and over a hundred people showed up to look at the art (a Guido Brink retrospective) and to meet with the candidate March 8th. Wine was served, and the food was perhaps the finest of the larger-scale campaign events this year. The snacks included hummus and all sorts of veggie-cheesy items nicely prepared and tastefully presented. Everybody had to shut up for a brief speech by the candidate. Riemer is getting better at these, and unlike certain other candidates for president or even for mayor, he is able to adjust the message to his audience with a reasonable degree of spontaneity. The crowd at MIAD learned that Riemer has two brothers who are actors, and mom was too. In college (as an undergraduate) he studied poetry. “Art is not just an add-on. Art is essential to a metropolitan area. It is essential to its success.” No argument from the crowd on that account. Marvin Pratt showed up, and that created a mild buzz for a while. Riemer campaign guru Bill Christofferson wants us all to know that his candidate’s “Last Blast” fundraiser will be held in Turner Hall on March 23rd, 5-7 p.m. The Riemer campaign sent out a news release encouraging its supporters to cast absentee ballots. Election Day, April 6th is Passover, he reminds us. It is also a time when many of us might be out of town on Spring break. Riemer would appreciate it if we voted before fleeing this miserable weather. It is all about turnout, at this point. Molly Christofferson, Bill’s daughter, did campaign work for Sandy Folaron. She now works for Marvin Pratt. Strange bedfellows. Bob Weiss held a fundraiser for Acting Mayor Pratt March 10th, at his restaurant, Shakers, 422 S. Second St. He sent me a note: “Clueless staffers, no signage, no promo materials, NO candidate, when promised 6-8 p.m. for His fundraiser.” Weiss said the event coordinator “sat by self in back corner, left after an hour. Some big hitter clients of mine left in disgust since Marvin not there. … Overall, hardly our greatest political experience.” Weiss is planning a solstice party this week (good timing), with plenty of food and booze. Forget the politics! Unopposed and Raising Money: Musings on the Common Council Presidency It is tough to draw a crowd in an election year when you have no opponent, and it’s nice for a candidate to not have to sweat his election. “I only hold one fundraiser a year and this is it,” said Ald. Michael Murphy at Derry Hegarty’s Pub, an event that perhaps saw about 75 people. The event was Thursday, March 11th, close enough to St. Patrick’s Day, which is appropriate since Murphy claims to be of Irish heritage. Since the money wasn’t absolutely necessary, and since the candidate seemed destined to win, the fundraiser easily lurched into its secondary […]
Mar 15th, 2004 by Michael HorneArt Jones Pension better than $100K per year
Two other Mayoral candidates eligible soon
Jan 12th, 2004 by Michael HorneBobot Calls for Term Limit
Vince Bobot plans to request a change in the City Charter to limit the term of Milwaukee Mayor to two consecutive terms.
Dec 22nd, 2003 by Michael HorneGary George’s Plot to Kill the Comptroller
State budget deliberations are a time for mischief making, and state Sen. Gary George (D-Milwaukee) has always had a reputation for quietly slipping pet proposals into this biennial document.
Jun 21st, 2001 by Bruce Murphy