Chris Abele is the Milwaukee County Executive. He was first elected in a special election in 2011, and re-elected in 2012 and 2016. He did not seek re-election in 2020.
Official Biography
Elected with an overwhelming 61% of the vote in a special election Chris Abele became Milwaukee County Executive on April 4, 2011. After serving one year, he ran unopposed and was re-elected to a full four year term April 3, 2012. As County Executive, Chris is focused on providing important, effective and efficient services to residents, disciplined decision-making, and making the county more sustainable. He is also focused on bringing civility back to politics. Chris wants to use his position to remind people political labels are not as important as getting things done. He’s proud to work with Democrats and Republicans on numerous issues.
Prior to his election, Chris served for seven years as CEO of the Milwaukee-based Argosy Foundation, where he remains a trustee. The foundation aims to support leaders and organizations that employ creative and entrepreneurial approaches to solving systemic problems. He’s also a highly successful business owner. He founded a successful hospital services business the he sold in 2012 and he still runs a flourishing real estate company, which owns commercial property in Wisconsin, New York and Maine.
Chris is a dedicated personal philanthropist. His philanthropic work has been primarily in arts, education and human rights. Over the past 15 years, his volunteer work has included serving on 31 local, national and international non-profit boards. He currently serves on boards at the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Schools that Can, and the Carr Center for Human Rights Policy at Harvard University. Chris is also an active fundraiser, chairing and co-chairing campaigns that raised more than $150 million. He has received numerous awards for his effective leadership and speaks regularly on leadership, philanthropy and nonprofit best practices.
County Executive Abele is proud to live in Milwaukee with his wife Miriam and their two young daughters, Lauren and Katherine.
Content referencing Chris Abele - Page 3
Seven Will Run for County Executive
Gwen Moore endorses Lipscomb, Crowley has raised $53,000, no word from Abele.
Jan 7th, 2020 by Graham KilmerMilwaukee County Announces Major Reforms in the Register of Deeds Office
Milwaukee County Register of Deeds office expects annual cost savings of $150,000
Jan 6th, 2020 by County Executive Chris AbeleMost Popular Plenty of Horne Columns
Scott Walker, Chris Abele, John Norquist and Rudy Guiliani all made the list.
Dec 31st, 2019 by Michael HorneAmerican Federation of Teachers Local 212 COPE Endorses Chris Larson
Dec 20th, 2019 by State Sen. Chris Larson
Alaska Airlines Doubles Milwaukee-Seattle Flights
Increases daily flights from one to two for summer 2020
Dec 19th, 2019 by Milwaukee Mitchell International AirportJim Sullivan Will Run For County Executive
County administrator and former legislator emphasizes need for sound management.
Dec 11th, 2019 by Graham KilmerWilson Park Homeless Warming Center Debated
Public meeting gets unruly on proposal to let homeless sleep overnight in senior center.
Dec 9th, 2019 by Graham KilmerMilwaukee County Parks Announces Initial Funding for Milwaukee Parks Foundation
More than $350,000 in initial gifts will support programming, infrastructure projects and long-term multi-park improvement campaigns that focus on racial equity across Milwaukee County
Nov 25th, 2019 by Milwaukee County ParksSix Now Running for County Executive
Democrat Chris Larson and Trump supporter Purnima Nath join four other candidates.
Nov 22nd, 2019 by Graham KilmerFox Point Trustee to Run for County Board
"Relatively frugal" liberal Democrat Liz Sumner to run for seat Lipscomb is vacating.
Nov 19th, 2019 by Graham KilmerWhy the Bus Union Didn’t Strike
MCTS offer of back pay for workers, and weariness after 21 months bargaining, were key.
Nov 19th, 2019 by Graham KilmerLipscomb Statement on Lack of Vetoes in 2020 County Budget
"Today’s update from the County Executive’s Office that he will not issue any budget vetoes continues the cooperation between the legislative and executive branches during the 2020 budget process..."
Nov 18th, 2019 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Signs 2020 budget
Prioritizing investments for residents and communities most in need were cornerstones of the balanced budget as County leaders unite to pursue new revenue sources
Nov 18th, 2019 by County Executive Chris AbeleAll Quiet on the Budget Front
Board passes 2020 budget with no clashes with Abele and small change in spending.
Nov 13th, 2019 by Graham KilmerPoll Shows Barrett Way Ahead
Zielinski, Taylor do poorly and more voters favor streetcar.
Nov 12th, 2019 by Bruce MurphyLipscomb Will Run for County Exec
County Board chair says troubled finances must be focus of next county executive.
Nov 12th, 2019 by Graham KilmerMarquette University to cohost social justice summit with NŌ STUDIOS
The summit will feature a variety of activists, artists, authors and academics converging to discuss the lived experience of disenfranchisement and offer solutions to some of the most pressing social justice issues affecting us locally, nationally and internationally.
Nov 11th, 2019 by Marquette UniversityIt’s time we rethink County government
Statement from Alderman Bob Donovan November 11, 2019
Nov 11th, 2019 by State Rep. Bob DonovanAlderman Cavalier Johnson on Running for Milwaukee County Executive
I believe that my focus should remain on the work at hand in City Hall at this time.
Nov 11th, 2019 by Mayor Cavalier JohnsonMCTS Has Highest-Rated Transit Tracking and Ticketing App in North America
In less than two years, the app has been downloaded more than 100,000 times, received thousands of positive reviews and achieved an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in the iOS App Store.
Nov 8th, 2019 by Milwaukee County Transit SystemThursday Transit Strike Averted
Transit union will vote on contract offer from MCTS.
Nov 7th, 2019 by Graham KilmerGlendale Mayor Bryan Kennedy Announces Campaign for Milwaukee County Executive
"My executive experience and record of bringing people together to create effective solutions makes me the strongest candidate for Milwaukee County Executive."
Nov 6th, 2019 by Bryan KennedyFilm Fans Turn Out in Record Numbers for 2019 Milwaukee Film Festival
Audience award winners include documentaries on Toni Morrison, Molly Ivins
Nov 5th, 2019 by Milwaukee FilmRevised Budget Saves More Transit
Board scrapes the barrel for funds to save bus routes, prevent various service cuts.
Nov 1st, 2019 by Graham KilmerLipscomb Amendment Restores Services and Invests in County Facilities, Workers
"I want to thank my colleagues on the Board of Supervisors for working with me to restore critical public services, preserve our facilities, and invest in our county employees."
Oct 31st, 2019 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.Board Adds Domes Funding to Budget
Abele's budget had no funding. Board members embrace consultant's $60 million domes plan
Oct 29th, 2019 by Graham KilmerMilwaukee Film Doubles Cash Support for Brico Forward Fund Winners
Global filmmakers and local champions recognized at annual Filmmaker Awards Brunch
Oct 28th, 2019 by Milwaukee FilmBarrett, Moore to Lead Growing DNC Team
19 honorary chairs round out Milwaukee 2020 leadership.
Oct 25th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCould Federal Grant Revive the Jobline?
Supervisors eager to recreate the shuttered bus service push to use federal grant.
Oct 23rd, 2019 by Graham KilmerWho Will Run for County Executive?
The list is long and could get longer. Handicapping the favorites.
Oct 22nd, 2019 by Bruce MurphyChose MKE to Add Flights, Jobs, and Millions of $$$ to our Hometown
Results of the Airport’s recent economic impact study show that if Milwaukeeans choose MKE over a Chicago airport, we could add new flights, hundreds of new jobs and more than $200 million annually to Wisconsin’s economy.
Oct 21st, 2019 by Milwaukee Mitchell International AirportMilwaukee County Needs a Bold Vision
Creative leadership could save money, pay for more services.
Oct 21st, 2019 by State Rep. Daniel RiemerSenator Lena Taylor Response on Chris Abele not seeking re-election
"It is flattering to hear people mention my name as a candidate for County Executive; however, I am laser-focused on fighting for the people of the City of Milwaukee."
Oct 18th, 2019 by State Sen. Lena TaylorStatement from Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele
"After nine years in a job I love, I have decided not to run for re-election."
Oct 16th, 2019 by County Executive Chris AbeleChris Abele Won’t Seek Reelection
County executive reverses course in surprise announcement, won't run for reelection.
Oct 16th, 2019 by Graham KilmerMilwaukee County Announces New Investments in Homeless Prevention Services in the 2020 Budget
$250,000 investment in the Housing First Initiative will support prevention programming
Oct 3rd, 2019 by County Executive Chris AbeleCounty Plans to Expand South Shore Beer Garden
County announces plans to spend $50,000 to plan and design beer garden expansion.
Oct 2nd, 2019 by Graham KilmerSup. Dimitrijevic Announces Plans to Expand South Shore Terrace Beer Garden
"Thank you to County Executive Abele for including the funding needed to start the process of expanding the successful South Shore beer garden in my district."
Oct 2nd, 2019 by Ald. Marina DimitrijevicAbele’s Budget Sees Cuts, and New Programs
Proposed budget closes two pools and cuts bus routes, but boosts the Sheriff's department
Oct 1st, 2019 by Graham KilmerMilwaukee County Announces Transition to Electronic Monitoring
Proposal calls for the safe reduction of the incarcerated population by enabling individuals in the justice system to maintain employment and connection to community
Sep 30th, 2019 by County Executive Chris AbeleCounty Ends Vendor’s Contract Due to Actions at Border
Southwest Key's immigrant detention centers for unaccompanied minors cause termination.
Sep 27th, 2019 by Corrinne HessPark’s ‘Maptacular’ art project returns for second season
This year’s unique maps, which were revealed at a gallery night at the Mitchell Park Domes on Thursday night.
Sep 26th, 2019 by Milwaukee County ParksBauman Wants 1.5 Percent Sales Tax
Additional funding would be dedicated to transit service, end what the alderman calls a "death spiral"
Sep 26th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneAirport Getting a Commercial ‘Refresh’
Cousins Subs and Starbucks open new locations at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport.
Sep 24th, 2019 by Graham KilmerNew Food and Beverage Options for MKE Travelers
Cousins Subs and Starbucks open in Concourse C
Sep 23rd, 2019 by Milwaukee Mitchell International AirportContribution to Jason Fields of $6,000
September 23, 2019 - View ReportTransit Union Stages Rally
Calls for contract to include to backpay and driver security measures, and for the restoration of bus routes.
Sep 22nd, 2019 by Graham Kilmer“Moving Milwaukee Forward” Bill Introduced
Goyke, Johnson push bill allowing local voters to approve 1% county sales tax.
Sep 20th, 2019 by Isiah HolmesTransit Cuts Reduced By Abele
After questions raised, his revised 2020 budget finds more revenue for bus system.
Sep 19th, 2019 by Graham KilmerAlderman Donovan urges GOP legislative leaders to use caution on sales tax ask
Media alert and letter from Alderman Bob Donovan
Sep 12th, 2019 by State Rep. Bob DonovanMilwaukee County Announces $4 Million Grant to Support Young Adults Experiencing Mental Health Diagnoses
Federal grant will support DHHS Behavior Health Division’s Wraparound Milwaukee program to connect young adults to employment, education and housing opportunities
Sep 12th, 2019 by Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human ServicesSupervisors Question Couture Project
Staskunas says county should consider other options, doubts 44-story tower will happen.
Sep 11th, 2019 by Graham KilmerHow New York Handles Juvenile Justice
"Close to Home" program could provide model for Wisconsin. First in a series.
Sep 10th, 2019 by Allison DikanovicMilwaukee Area Elected Officials and Community Leaders Propose a New Revenue Solution to Invest in our Communities
An unprecedented partnership will move forward to pursue new revenue solutions that provide property tax relief to residents through a local option sales tax
Sep 9th, 2019 by Press ReleaseTax Hike Would Give City $50 Million Per Year
Barrett says proposed 1% sales tax hike would fund police, fire, streets, property tax relief.
Sep 9th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneUnique Coalition Seeks Sales Tax Hike
County officials, all 19 municipalities, business leaders back plan to net $160 million per year.
Sep 9th, 2019 by Graham KilmerBus Union Authorizes a Strike
The union votes no on MCTS' final contract offer, gives leadership power to call strike.
Sep 6th, 2019 by Graham KilmerLena Taylor Announces Run for Mayor
"We need leadership and an office that is not corrupt," she declares.
Sep 3rd, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneAbele Urges Bus Drivers to Settle Contract
Union and county transit system have been in contract fight for 18 months.
Aug 30th, 2019 by Corrinne HessAn Open Letter From County Executive Chris Abele to ATU Leadership
This contract provides a 2 percent raise upon contract signing, with another 1.1 percent raise on April 1, 2020.
Aug 29th, 2019 by County Executive Chris AbeleShould Barrett Worry About Reelection?
Another easy win seems certain. Which may not be so good for Milwaukee.
Aug 29th, 2019 by Bruce MurphyATU Local 998 Challenges MCTS 2020 ‘Budget Hole’ Projection
Preliminary investigation points to millions of over projected MCTS operating expenses since 2015
Aug 29th, 2019 by Amalgamated Transit Union Local 998Chris Abele Donates $100,000 to Adams Garden Park As Challenge Grant to Close the Gap
Adams Garden Park is the latest endeavor for Larry and Sharon Adams, the retired Co-Founders of Walnut Way Conservation Corp., whose work was highlighted recently on the CBS Morning Show.
Aug 28th, 2019 by Press ReleaseLiberal 527 Groups Crush GOP Groups
State’s pro-Democratic special interest groups raised 5 times more than pro-GOP groups in first half of 2019.
Aug 25th, 2019 by Wisconsin Democracy CampaignAirport Requests $25.5 Million for Upgrade
Expanded international terminal could draw more flights, passengers.
Aug 23rd, 2019 by Corrinne HessPublic Museum Could Lose Accreditation
MPM asking county for funding to fix leaky roof, air conditioning system.
Aug 22nd, 2019 by Corrinne HessPublic Shocked by ‘For Sale’ Signs in County Parks
Parks group uses "For Sale" signs to raise awareness and support for parks funding.
Aug 6th, 2019 by Graham KilmerMilwaukee County Announces Upcoming Budget Public Engagement Sessions
Four sessions in partnership with Milwaukee County Supervisors provide forum for residents to share priorities and weigh in on new revenue options
Aug 5th, 2019 by County Executive Chris AbeleWill He or Won’t He Run for Mayor?
Council president Ashanti Hamilton promises his decision by next week.
Jul 30th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneNO STUDIOS to Hose Medusa Jr Produced by and Featuring 8 Year Old Gabriella Mancuso
A theatrical performance starring local young female actors depicting the young lives of pioneering women, with three performance dates: August 23rd, 24th, 25th
Jul 29th, 2019 by Nō StudiosMilwaukee Film Expands Festival Footprint
Cedarburg and the Third Ward Neighborhoods Added. Rivoli Theatre and Broadway Theatre Center Join as New Film Venues
Jul 25th, 2019 by Milwaukee FilmDomes Proposal Requires Great Speed
Consultant's "Think Big" solution requires fast-paced applications for grants, tax credits.
Jul 24th, 2019 by Graham Kilmer‘MCTS Excellence’ Video Series Honored with Prestigious National Award
MCTS Excellence began in late 2016 as a video series posted on the company’s website and official social media accounts.
Jul 22nd, 2019 by Milwaukee County Transit SystemMilwaukee County Officials Remind Residents to Take Precautions During the Hot Weather
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for south central and southeast Wisconsin from 12:00PM on July 18 through 11:00PM on July 19
Jul 18th, 2019 by County Executive Chris AbeleFive Takeaways from Yesterday’s Election
The race for Terry Witkowski's seat had surprises -- and key lessons.
Jul 17th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee County Launches Balancing Act
Interactive online tool challenges users to close Milwaukee County’s projected $28 million budget gap using existing and capped revenue options
Jul 16th, 2019 by County Executive Chris AbeleOne Year Out: Milwaukee 2020 Host Committee Releases Video to Mark Countdown to Democratic National Convention
Video highlights diverse city undergoing economic transformation
Jul 16th, 2019 by Milwaukee 2020 DNC Convention CommitteeWay To Go, County Board!
For too long, workers and community members have been shut out of the MCTS leadership.
Jul 11th, 2019 by Amalgamated Transit Union Local 998Abele’s Power Over County Transit Targeted
Proposal gives county supervisors and employees more power over county bus system.
Jul 11th, 2019 by Graham KilmerMansion Hotel Proposal Approved
Historic Preservation Commission okays conversion of Marshall St. mansion to small hotel.
Jul 9th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCounty May Have To Sell Parks
Report predicts county's growing structural deficit could mean selling parks to reduce costs.
Jul 2nd, 2019 by Graham KilmerMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele and The Department of Health and Human Services Announce New Approach for Youth Justice Reform
Milwaukee County’s submission for State funding proposes a transformative approach to youth justice by developing a continuum of responsive services, including residential setting development
Jul 1st, 2019 by County Executive Chris AbeleThe County’s Queen of Hemp
Why Supervisor Sylvia Ortiz-Velez is pushing so hard for county to grow hemp.
Jul 1st, 2019 by Graham KilmerState Aids Convention Center Expansion
Plus: Affordable housing developer buys south side site, Irgens plan to redevelop M&I building
Jun 30th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneNO STUDIOS Presents Inaugural Dance Fest July 19-20
Two-day event to feature dancers from New York-based Ailey II, Joined by Six Milwaukee Area Dance Companies, Performing together for the first time.
Jun 27th, 2019 by Nō StudiosCrew Destroying Abele’s Mansion
Historic $2.6 million Eschweiler mansion built by one of city's most esteemed architects.
Jun 26th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneNO STUDIOS Presents Inaugural Dance Fest July 19-20
Two-day event to feature dancers from New York-based Ailey II, Joined by Six Milwaukee Area Dance Companies, Performing together for the first time.
Jun 25th, 2019 by Nō StudiosJuneteenth Day 2019
State and local leaders join community for Juneteenth Day celebration.
Jun 20th, 2019 by Jack FennimoreCounty Board Honors Seven MCTS Bus Drivers for Finding Lost, Missing Children
Several other MCTS Drivers and Transit Security Officers have also come to the aid of lost or missing children over the years.
Jun 20th, 2019 by Milwaukee County Transit SystemCampaign Targets Abele’s Plan to Raze Home
Shorewood residents organize letter writing campaign, online petition to save historic Eschweiler mansion.
Jun 18th, 2019 by Jane HampdenGay High Schooler Denied a Valedictory Speech Will Join Victory Fund at World Pride in New York City
Victory Fund Board Chair Chris Abele will pay all expenses for Nat Werth to attend World Pride as well as Victory Institute’s Candidate & Campaign Training
Jun 17th, 2019 by LGBTQ Victory FundCounty Seeks Allies in Call for State Aid
Unfunded state mandates and a decade of declining state aid driving county's huge deficit.
Jun 14th, 2019 by Graham KilmerNew Plan for Bradford Beach Ramp
The Ability Center announces $100,000 plan to make beach accessible for people with disabilities.
Jun 13th, 2019 by Mary Kate McCoyCounty Executive Chris Abele, Milwaukee County Parks and Festival Pro LLC Announce the Return of China Lights
Chinese Lantern Festival will return to Boerner Botanical Gardens from September 13 – October 20
Jun 11th, 2019 by County Executive Chris AbelePrideFest Boasted 120 LGBTQ Artists
45,787 people attended, making it the largest pride event ever held in Wisconsin.
Jun 10th, 2019 by Jack FennimoreNew Humboldt Park Wine Garden Opens
Plus: a third Cubanitas, new Milwaukee Brewing rooftop patio, Osteria's return delayed.
Jun 6th, 2019 by Jennifer RickMCTS Unveils 28 New Buses
Buses have improvements for riders, bus drivers and other road users. See our photos.
Jun 6th, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneCounty Executive Chris Abele, Milwaukee County Parks and The Ability Center Announce Plans to Make Bradford Beach Accessible
“By ensuring Bradford Beach is accessible to all Milwaukee County residents, we are working towards making our community assets a convenient and viable choice for people with disabilities.”
Jun 3rd, 2019 by County Executive Chris AbeleThree Downtown Hotels Will Miss DNC
Plus: Former Toys R Us becoming grocery store, and Pabst Mansion plans auction.
Jun 2nd, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneInside Abele’s Eschweiler Mansion
See the 1927 home's interior from when it was new, and just before Abele bought it.
Jun 1st, 2019 by Jeramey JanneneMaterials Salvaged From Lake Drive Mansion To Help Local Families In Need
“Our team is ensuring these items stay out of local landfills and rather go on to live a second life.”
May 31st, 2019 by Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity