Content referencing Milwaukee Common Council - Page 11
City-County Plan Creates Municipal ID Cards
Can be used widely but not to vote in elections.
Nov 19th, 2015 by Edgar Mendez
Poor People Get Far More Municipal Fines
Study shows municipal court's fines for petty offenses fall disproportionately on the poor.
Nov 12th, 2015 by Brendan O’Brien
New Vegan, Mexican, Asian Places Opening
Three parts of the city get new restaurants. And two popular bars are closing.
Sep 30th, 2015 by Jack Fennimore
New Bucks Arena Approved
City completes final step of financing puzzle for new Bucks arena.
Sep 22nd, 2015 by Jeramey Jannene
New Arlington Heights Park Opens Soon
Ribbon cutting set for first MKE Plays playground at Arlington Heights Park
Sep 11th, 2015 by Edgar Mendez
Should City Approve Subsidy for Bucks Arena?
The costs keep rising. And the benefits seem iffy.
Aug 26th, 2015 by Pat Small
Bucks Arena Winners and Losers
We count 33 winners, from strip clubs to Scott Walker to the streetcar, and 12 losers, including Frank Gimbel, the Brewers and Seattle.
Jul 17th, 2015 by Jeramey Jannene
Impact of City Reduction in Marijuana Fine?
Local leaders offer different views on new city ordinance lowering maximum fine for pot possession to just $50.
Jun 11th, 2015 by Edgar Mendez
Where 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 Faraj
The Charter School Advantage
A new study shows charter schools outperform MPS schools. But they still trail the average state school.
Apr 15th, 2015 by Bruce Thompson
Charter 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 Faraj
City 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 Mendez
Joe Davis Announces Plan for NBA Arena
Actually, it wasn't really a plan. But it was a press conference.
Mar 4th, 2015 by Michael Horne
How Good Are Charter Schools?
The data is very encouraging, so why are liberals so opposed?
Feb 11th, 2015 by Bruce Thompson
Milwaukee Streetcar Approved
After years of debate, streetcar will finally move forward. Final engineering will begin immediately, and construction by the end of the year.
Feb 10th, 2015 by Jeramey Jannene
Streetcar 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 Jannene
Streetcar Backers Say They Have the Votes
Aldermen Witkowski and Perez now favor it, and touted plan to extend the line into their south-side districts.
Jan 20th, 2015 by Jeramey Jannene
Council Delays Streetcar Until January
Minority of aldermen were able to use city charter provision to delay project for one month, but a majority seems poised to approve it.
Dec 16th, 2014 by Jeramey Jannene
Committee Approves Milwaukee Streetcar
Mayor offers historic address to council committee on streetcar and it gains their approval. Only one person speaks in opposition.
Dec 9th, 2014 by Jeramey Jannene
The 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 Murphy
The Modest Ranch Home of Ald. Joe Davis
The mayoral candidate lives in the Hampton Heights neighborhood where assessments have declined and crime has risen. Small wonder he's concerned about that issue.
Nov 11th, 2014 by Michael Horne
Will Red Lion Roar on Water Street?
Proposed British pub would replace Brocach. Approval seems likely, despite some worries about noise from the patio.
Nov 11th, 2014 by Michael Horne
700 E. Kilbourn High-Rise Wins Key Approval
Proposed high-rise would add up to 275 "ultra luxury" apartments to downtown Milwaukee -- with no public financing.
Oct 7th, 2014 by Jeramey Jannene
Another Newspaper Attack on Chief Flynn
Has the Journal Sentinel renewed its war against the police chief or was its Sunday story simply botched reporting?
Sep 30th, 2014 by Bruce Murphy
Bill Would Require Body Camera on Police
Ald. Milele Coggs will introduce legislation requiring Milwaukee Police Department to buy and use body cameras.
Sep 3rd, 2014 by Matthew Wisla
The Unbearable Loudness of Harley Hogs
Why are they allowed to violate noise ordinances? No one seems to know.
Sep 2nd, 2014 by Bruce Murphy
Why Bob Donovan Can’t Beat Barrett
No alderman will back him. Why he’s so disliked -- and so certain to lose.
Aug 21st, 2014 by Bruce Murphy
Will Uber Bring Cheaper Rides?
As ride sharing service slashes rates, Milwaukee Common Council mulls changes in rules.
Jul 14th, 2014 by Bruce Murphy
New Programs Target Lindsay Heights
City's forgivable loans and non-profit's volunteer workers will both help North Side residents repair their homes.
Jun 3rd, 2014 by Karen Stokes
Downtown Power Brokers Mull Expanded Convention Center
Leaders of Wisconsin Center and the Bradley Center consider key changes for downtown facilities.
May 15th, 2014 by Michael Horne
The Underwater City
New study ranks Milwaukee as 16th hardest hit city, with 40% of homes underwater. But that may understate the problem.
May 13th, 2014 by Bruce Murphy
Community Opposes North Side Tavern
“We’ve battled this tavern, this location, for years,” says Harambee neighborhood activist and city agrees, denying application.
Apr 15th, 2014 by Jabril Faraj
Taxi Cab Lottery Has Light Turnout
Though there were 1,706 applications for 100 new licenses, only about 200 showed up for the lottery. But the show must go on! -- and did.
Mar 17th, 2014 by Jeramey Jannene
New Champion of the City
New council president Michael Murphy is bluntly honest about state politicians in an interview.
Mar 17th, 2014 by Steven Walters
Everybody Wants to Drive A Cab
The city has 1,706 applications for 100 cab licenses. Milwaukee is suddenly becoming far more cab-friendly.
Mar 11th, 2014 by Bruce Murphy
Vel Phillips’ Newport Co-op
The high-rise co-op has "sweeping" views of Lake Michigan and Shepherd publisher Lou Fortis as a fellow resident. What more could you ask for?
Mar 3rd, 2014 by Michael Horne
Murphy 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 Horne
Willie Hines’ Cozy Bungalow
Longtime council president's home is small but has a wood-burning fireplace and basement rec room finished in knotty pine.
Feb 9th, 2014 by Michael Horne
Will Taxicab Issue Ever Be Settled?
City Attorney’s legal opinion helps clarify things, but it’s still a contentious issue.
Jan 21st, 2014 by Bruce Murphy
Ald. Bohl’s Suburban-Style Ranch Home
Bohl is under investigation and has lawyered up. But his home is awfully cozy.
Dec 29th, 2013 by Michael Horne
Can County Board Solve Taxicab Problem?
The board's resolution got media play, but will probably accomplish nothing.
Nov 21st, 2013 by Bruce Murphy
City Budget’s Impact on Neighborhoods
From more police officers and new libraries to street pavement spending, changes will have big impact.
Oct 31st, 2013 by Brendan O’Brien
Citizens, Cut Your Grass!
Common Council is considering a proposal by Ald. Davis with tougher restrictions against overgrown lawns.
Jul 22nd, 2013 by Gretchen Schuldt
Governor Ignores South Side on Residency Requirement
Walker signs law, never responds to letters from South Side politicians and organizations.
Jul 11th, 2013 by Edgar Mendez
King Drive Owner Under Fire, Taxpayers Could Lose $212,000
Ald. Coggs assails company for promising local grocery and leasing to Dollar Tree instead.
Jul 3rd, 2013 by Shakara Robinson
Inside the Downtown Marriott
Urban Milwaukee was allowed a sneak peek inside the new hotel opening tomorrow and our photos tell the story.
Jun 25th, 2013 by Urban Milwaukee
6th Annual Fair Trade Crawl
Shop at 24 local businesses throughout Milwaukee, the only major U.S. city that’s a “Fair Trade Town.”
May 7th, 2013 by Peggy Schulz
Riverwest 24 Registration Gets Huge Turnout
Hundreds began arriving as soon as 5:30 a.m. to sign up for the event. And as we stood in line more new developments for Milwaukee were announced.
May 3rd, 2013 by Dave Reid
School Switcheroo?
Maryland Avenue Montessori might swap buildings with Cass Street School. And poor Sweet Water's building is available for lease.
Feb 20th, 2013 by Michael Horne
How to Regulate Guns
Liberals need to better understand firearms if they have any hope of passing regulations.
Feb 11th, 2013 by John Norquist
MU Campus Apartments Approved
Council approves zoning change for 6-floor, 80-apartment project at 14th and Wells. Latest renderings released, too.
Feb 6th, 2013 by Dave Reid
Hines Would Reduce Fire & Police Commission Power
Council appears to back radical change, Barrett seems lukewarm.
Jan 29th, 2013 by Bruce Murphy
New Network of Charter Schools Coming
Ex-MPS Superintendent Howard Fuller is helping lead effort, which will delay schools opening to 2014-2015.
Jan 21st, 2013 by Brendan O’Brien
The Ghost Sign That Wasn’t
A bit of fake Milwaukee history, some questionable MATC ads, and debunking a war on pot.
Jan 16th, 2013 by Michael Horne
Surprise Compromise on Preservation Law
Opposing sides agree on preservation ordinance changes. But is consensus possible on a combined arena and transit tax?
Dec 19th, 2012 by Urban Milwaukee
Quiet Company Could Build City’s Tallest Building
An examination of the who, what, where, and when of the new Northwestern Mutual office tower.
Dec 6th, 2012 by Jeramey Jannene
Bait and Switch?
One building was presented, but another is being built. Ald. Bauman's proposal will end such practices.
Oct 24th, 2012 by Dave Reid
Should Chief Flynn Resign?
The city is divided over the chief. But is it all his fault?
Oct 5th, 2012 by Bruce Murphy
City Defies Journal Sentinel
Fire & Police Commission will hire consultant the newspaper repeatedly claims is biased.
Aug 27th, 2012 by Bruce Murphy
Donovan’s New Anti-Streetcar Allies
After three press releases in three days, the alderman holds a news conference with new right-wing allies.
Aug 16th, 2012 by Jeramey Jannene
The Milwaukee Olympics
Why Milwaukee isn't likely to ever to host the Olympics, and why it would have been nice if Chicago did.
Aug 9th, 2012 by Jeramey Jannene
New Building On Tap For Brewery
Gorman & Company's third building at the former Pabst Brewery will target law firms as tenants.
Aug 2nd, 2012 by Jeramey Jannene
This is the End, Beautiful Friend
Some thoughts on the bitter end of Sydney Hih.
Jul 28th, 2012 by Dave Reid
The Voter Suppression Game
Both parties are devising strategies to discourage voting. But Republicans are using government power.
Jul 25th, 2012 by Bruce Murphy
A 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 Reid
One More Chance for the Sydney HIH
Parliamentary procedure buys the Sydney HIH a few more days.
Jul 6th, 2012 by Dave Reid
“Indignant” Police Chief Defends Department’s Integrity
Chief Flynn provides data that calls into question the Journal Sentinel’s reporting.
Jun 21st, 2012 by Bruce Murphy
Did Donovan Make Bauman Soil His Pants?
Another week, another Ald. Donovan anti-streetcar press conference. Plus: will the Bucks get a new owner and new arena? And: East Side zoning changes and the return of the Downtown Trolley loop.
May 24th, 2012 by Jeramey Jannene
Bob vs Bob (Almost)
We reached out to Aldermen Bob Bauman and Bob Donovan to get their perspective on the Milwaukee Streetcar project following the press conference "debate"
May 19th, 2012 by Jeramey Jannene
The Impending New Milwaukee Delegation, Free Brewers Tickets for Aldermen, 24 to 1, and More
Welcome to the ninth installment of Eyes on Milwaukee. This week I examine the coming changes to the Milwaukee Delegation, how another big city gets quite the luxury perk, the difference between the charter meetings of the City and County, Milwaukee's new City Clerk, and more.
Apr 19th, 2012 by Jeramey Jannene
After Revisions Office Building Approved for 27th and Wisconsin
WIS27 LLC's proposal to develop a 64,000 SF office building at the corner of 27th Street and Wisconsin Avenue was approved by the Milwaukee Common Council today. WIS27 will purchase the vacant lot from the city for $1, and intends to lease the new building to the State of Wisconsin Department of Children and Families.
Apr 17th, 2012 by Dave Reid
Hines for Mayor, Coggs for Life, Thomas for 34%, and More City Politics
Welcome to the seventh installment of Eyes on Milwaukee. This week the focus is all on City of Milwaukee elected officials following yesterday's election. I explore the likelihood that Willie Hines runs for Mayor, how the new Common Council will resemble the old Common Council, the wide disparity in vote totals between districts, Bob Donovan winning the war, the shocking number of votes Johnny Thomas got, and Spencer Coggs' new job.
Apr 4th, 2012 by Jeramey Jannene
Taxi Cabs, Elections, and More
Welcome to the first weekly installment of Eyes on the Street, a new column running down what's happening in urban Milwaukee. This week features taxi cabs, election news, a list of openings and closings, and the photo of the week.
Feb 22nd, 2012 by Jeramey Jannene
Milwaukee Taxi Cab Medallion Bill Passes Assembly
The City of Milwaukee is working on state legislation to allow the City to profit from the sale of additional taxi cab permits (to be called medallions) and address the perceived shortage of taxi cabs in the city. Currently under Wisconsin law, permit and license fees can not exceed the cost to issue said permits. This gives the Common Council and Mayor little incentive to raise the cap on the number of permits (currently capped at the seemingly random number of 321 since 1992), despite the fact that the permits are changing hands in the private market for between $80,000 to $150,000.
Feb 22nd, 2012 by Jeramey Jannene
Close Wisconsin Avenue Through the Marquette Campus?
In 1992, Marquette proposed closing Wisconsin Avenue to vehicular traffic between North 11th and North 16th streets, as well as North 12th and North 13th streets between Wisconsin Avenue and Wells Street. Closing a section of Wisconsin Avenue was intended to make the campus safer and more attractive, and it certainly would have had a big impact on the university and city, but would it have been positive?
Nov 28th, 2011 by Jeramey Jannene
Milwaukee Streetcar Passes Common Council, Proceeds to Final Engineering
The Milwaukee Common Council voted to approved the Milwaukee Streetcar today, moving it forward to Final Engineering.
Jul 26th, 2011 by Jeramey Jannene
Milwaukee Streetcar at Apex
The Milwaukee Streetcar is finally poised to move forward. Following last May's approval of a preliminary engineering study by the Milwaukee Connector Study Group, the Milwaukee Streetcar project has progressed to the next step in its development. In late June the Public Works Committee and Steering and Rules Committee will take up the project on subsequent days, followed by the full Milwaukee Common Council in early July.
Jun 16th, 2011 by Jeramey Jannene
Marriott Approved. Greenwich Park Apartments Approved
Two controversial development projects received key approvals at the January 19th, 2011 meeting of the Common Council.
Jan 20th, 2011 by Dave Reid
Milwaukee is Moving Forward with New Bicycle Plan
Milwaukee’s first bicycle plan came out in 1993. Since that time the city has realized most of the plan’s major recommendations and has added over 115 miles of bicycle lanes and routes to the city. The new plan lays out a Vision for Milwaukee 2020. That would include adding over 170 miles of new on-street bike infrastructure and almost 7 miles of new paved trails.
Jul 14th, 2010 by Dave Reid
Milwaukee to Contract Nationally Recognized Transit Expert
At the May 4th, 2010 meeting of the Common Council, Alderman Bauman brought forward an item that would allow the City of Milwaukee to enter into a contract with an expert consultant, Jeffery Boothe, for the purpose of facilitating the next steps of the Milwaukee Streetcar project.
May 5th, 2010 by Dave Reid
A Brand for Milwaukee?
The Milwaukee Common Council recently passed a resolution creating a branding task force for Milwaukee, and certainly there is a place for creating a brand for Milwaukee, but the key to creating this brand isn't a marketing campaign, catch phrase or tag line.
Feb 21st, 2010 by Dave Reid
Ban Sticker Advertisements on Cars
Undoubtedly if you've walked around the East Side of Milwaukee for an extended period of time you've encountered a "Part Time Cash" sticker on the window of a car, or laying next to the curb. And therein lies the problem.
Nov 24th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
The Moderne Gains Common Council Approval for City Loans
The Moderne development received approval for $9.3 millions in loans from the City of Milwaukee that led developer Rick Barrett had been seeking.
Nov 3rd, 2009 by Dave Reid
$100 Million Worth of Development Approved by the Common Council
The $11 million Hide House project was the most hotly debated development project at the July 28th meeting of the Common Council, though the most significant action in terms of dollars was the approval of the Rivianna.
Jul 29th, 2009 by Dave Reid
Close the Libraries? Lease the Water Works?
Massive layoffs, extended furloughs, service cuts, significant tax and fee increases all are possibilities in the next year for the City of Milwaukee. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but with the gap in the pension fund, a decline in the assessed value of property in the city, and a likely decline in state shared revenue the fiscal picture for the City of Milwaukee doesn't look so bright. At today's Common Council meeting the debate around a snow and ice fee increase and the furloughing of city employees were brought about by this startling economic outlook for the City of Milwaukee.
Jun 16th, 2009 by Dave Reid
Huh? Timeout. Explanation Needed.
As the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors barrel ahead towards Thursday's vote on the Milwaukee County Ground land sale to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
May 19th, 2009 by Dave Reid
Milwaukee Streetcar Round-Up
The Milwaukee circulator streetcar is moving forward, but there is still confusion in the mind of many. We've covered the issue in the past, but this article attempts to bring everything together in one place, the history, the frequently asked questions, and the proposed route.
Apr 19th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
M.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 Reid
Contentious M.O.R.E Debate Continues
The controversial M.O.R.E ordinance was the primary item of discussion at this meeting of the Common Council. This ordinance proposed new requirements related to hiring City of Milwaukee residents, the utilization of emerging small businesses, and the paying of prevailing wages for all City of Milwaukee projects and private developments that receive $1 million or more in TIF funding. It was widely believed that this ordinance was going to be put to a vote of the full Common Council today, which made Alderman Michael Murphy‘s motion to send this file to the Finance & Personnel Committee all that more contentious. Through the discussion it became evident that this file had originally been scheduled to appear the Finance & Personnel Committee but was removed at the last minute because of a legal technicality. Immediately prior to the Common Council meeting a fiscal note that indicated the ordinance would require a number of full-time employees to manage the new programs arrived which made the motion to send it back to committee both legal and appropriate. Although he indicated he would likely support the ordinance Alderman Murhpy argued that “basic issues, and basic questions are just not being addressed” and that “one needs to take the time to do it right.” At first the sponsors of the legislation were surprised and took the motion as a delaying tactic. They argued that the process had been fully transparent and didn’t require any further delay. Alderman Ashanti Hamilton stated that “I think the public has been engaged and involved in the creation of this ordinance.” During the discussion Alderman Nik Kovac piped in saying “I believe in process, I campaigned on process”, but he then indicated he didn’t believe sending it back to committee would change anything. In fact he said “the controversy today will be the same in 21 days.” Alderman Joe Davis fired away at the implication that not enough questions had been asked or that there wasn’t enough transparency to the process contending that “I made a point to schedule a special meeting to achieve transparency.” Initial supporters of the motion argued more questions needed to be asked and that it would be appropriate to send it back to the Finance & Personnel Committee. Specifically, Alderman Terry Witkowski supported the motion in an attempt to gather more information saying “I do support sending this back to committee, this was a constantly evolving piece of legislation.” In an attempt to bring a bit of levity to the debate Alderman Jim Bohl joked “I’m feeling a Rodney King moment, why can’t we just all get along here?” Then he defended Alderman Murphy’s motives and attempted to call the question. Oddly on this specific motion the ability to call the question isn’t an allowed so the debate continued. Alderman Murphy responded to the criticisms by stating “I do feel I was attacked unfairly” and he again attempted to clarify his position stating that “the fact is somebody, literally two minutes before the meeting handing you […]
Mar 4th, 2009 by Dave Reid
Small Changes Coming to Preservation Ordinance
One item of interest was a proposed change to how appeals of Historic Preservation Commission actions were to be handled. Alderman Bob Bauman explained that most issues related to actions by the Historic Preservation Commission are handled by the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee or the Common Council. It was pointed out that during a typical situation the Historic Preservation Commission may deny a demolition permit and then the property owner could appeal to the Common Council whereas in the case of the Transera project the Administrative Review Board stepped in due to what Alderman Bauman characterized as a “a glitch in the HPC ordinance”. Alderman Terry Witkowski supported the measure and added “I’ve been on that board for five years and this is the first time anything from historic preservation came that way,” indicating that this change wouldn’t burden the Common Council with numerous appeals. In response to this legal quirk, Alderman Bauman considered passing legislation to dissolve the board but instead brought forward an amendment to the ordinance. The amendment directed future appeals to the Common Council and restricted who may appeal a decision by the Historic Preservation Commission. This ordinance change was approved and will now go before the full Common Council.
Feb 3rd, 2009 by Dave Reid
Common Council Debates Water Deal
Both, New Land Enterprises' apartment proposal and Mandel Group's UWM dormitory proposal were approved without any debate on the floor and both are expect to break ground after winter.
Dec 18th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Common 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 Reid
2009 City Budget Cuts Firefighters
Each year the City of Milwaukee goes through a public lashing as Mayor Barrett attempts to create next year's budget.
Oct 21st, 2008 by Dave Reid
Goll 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 Reid
Common Council Approves Snow and Ice Fee
This Common Council meeting was called to handle the Mayor’s proposed 2008 and 2009 snow and ice removal fee increases as well as a proposed increase to the solid waste fee for 2009. Resolution, 080483, proposed an increase to the 2008 snow and ice removal fee to pay for cost overruns due to the record breaking snowfall Milwaukee experienced this past winter. It was pointed out during this discussion that non-taxable entities will have to pay this fee so it shares the cost of the service to all entities that receive services. As the funding was need to cover an existing budget gap the Common Council generally supported it and the fee increase was approved. Resolution, 080485, proposed an additional increase, approximately $8 per household, to the 2009 snow and ice fee to cover an estimate rises in costs. Alderman Robert Bauman pointed out that even with the increases “it really leaves out a major service enhancement” referring to the clearing of sidewalks and curb cuts to allow handicap and elderly residents the ability to cross the street safely. This problem had been brought up by numerous residents at earlier Public Works Committee meetings and the failure of this fee increase to address this issue raised concerns for Alderman Bauman. This resolution was not approved by the Common Council. Resolution, 080484, proposed an increase of approximately $37 per household to the 2009 solid waste fee. This increase again raised debate on the council floor and concerns over the impact of these increases on citizens. Additionally concerns over the perceived belief of citizens that city hall is always looking to grow were discussed and it was brought up that the City of Milwaukee has 2000 less employees than 20 years ago. Alderman Terry Witkowski said these cuts had hurt the City of Milwaukee’s ability to provide quality services and to insure quality infrastructure saying that it “has it shown up in service? Has it shown up in infrastructure? Yes”. He went on to state that “the fact of the matter is we have been downsizing”. This resolution was placed on file by the Common Council, stopping the fee increase for the time being but it may be revisited in the future.
Sep 15th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Common Council Passes Vehicle Registration Fee
Senator Russ Feingold presented his upcoming legislation which focuses on encouraging innovation, growth in small business, creating jobs in green energy, linking business with education and capitalizing on research in the fresh water science. He received input into this legislation from local business leaders, Sheldon Lubar and Joseph Zilber, with the hope of finding solutions that can work nationally but also locally in southeast Wisconsin. The other item of note was the Common Council’s vote to override Mayor Tom Barrett‘s veto of the controversial $20 vehicle registration fee. The override needed ten votes and received eleven so the vehicle registration fee will be enacted. The vehicle registration fee will eliminate assessments, which have averaged $2500 per household, related to road reconstruction projects within the City of Milwaukee.
Sep 2nd, 2008 by Dave Reid
Senator Russ Feingold to Address Milwaukee Common Council
As part of the President's Speaker Series, Council President Willie Hines Jr has invited Senator Russ Feingold to address the Common Council on September 2nd. There is a reception before the meeting at 8:30 a.m., followed by the meeting at 9:00 a.m. The meeting and reception are both open to the public.
Aug 30th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
Common 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 Reid
