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 7
Contribution to Jason Fields of $6,000
September 23, 2019 - View ReportMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces Appointment of Nicole Brookshire as Director of the Office on African American Affairs
Brookshire was selected as the top candidate from a group of 250 by the OAAA Transition Committee.
Jun 13th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleMCTS One Of The Best In The U.S.
Report ranks county transit system 13th in providing access to jobs. County considers growth options.
Jun 9th, 2017 by Dave FidlinSheriff Candidate Lives In Style
Earnell Lucas, head of MLB security has lovely, $621,000 East Side home.
Jun 8th, 2017 by Michael HorneFyxation Bicycle Co. & Milwaukee County Parks team up to launch Traveling Beer Garden custom bicycle
The bicycles will be on display at each of the Traveling Beer Garden stops throughout summer.
Jun 5th, 2017 by Milwaukee County ParksAbele Stands Up for Milwaukee County
In a series of vetoes, Abele took steps to preserve pay for County workers, ensure the Zoo can proceed with upgrades, and expand community placement options for youth as an alternative to Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake.
Jun 1st, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleCourt Rules Against Abele Again, Denies Stay
The court found that County Executive Abele failed to demonstrate a "strong showing for success" on appeal.
Jun 1st, 2017 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.You’re invited to the PrideFest 2017 Opening Ceremonies
Celebrate 30 years of triumph with Milwaukee Pride
May 30th, 2017 by Milwaukee Pride, Inc.County Executive Abele To Seek Court Remedy on Illegal Action By the County Board
"It’s disappointing that Chairman Lipscomb won’t abide by the Court ruling he sought and instead is forcing the County to spend additional taxpayer money on this lawsuit."
May 25th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleMCTS One of the Top Systems in the Country Getting You to Work
Milwaukee is ranked higher than many larger communities including Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Miami and San Diego.
May 16th, 2017 by Milwaukee County Transit SystemChris Abele to Give MATC $500,000 to the MATC Promise Program
Gift Will Advance Planning for Wisconsin’s First Adult Promise Program
May 12th, 2017 by Milwaukee Area Technical CollegeCity, County Public Safety Agreement Wins Approval
Mayor Barrett, County Executive Abele announce partnership to improve public safety
May 11th, 2017 by Mayor Tom BarrettCounty Executive Chris Abele Announces “Bear Garden” Coming to Milwaukee County Zoo
New Public-Private Concessions Partnership Will Expand on County’s Successful Beer Gardens, Bring Additional Revenue to the Zoo, and Feature Local Vendors
May 10th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleSave the Sanctuary Woods
Precious nature reserve on County Grounds in Tosa could be destroyed.
Apr 27th, 2017 by Jonathan H. RupprechtCounty Executive Abele Granted Unlawful Raises
Ruling affirms Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors authority over compensation of county employees
Apr 27th, 2017 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.Abele Blasts State on Juvenile Prisons
State wants 21% hike in fees and more inmates at failing prisons.
Apr 27th, 2017 by Gretchen SchuldtStatement on Federal Ruling
"This executive order was never based on a reality that public safety was at risk and neither was the letter nine of us received from the Department of Justice last Friday."
Apr 25th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleCounty Executive Chris Abele Announces New Whitnall Park Craft Beer Garden to Open May 5th
Whitnall Park Beer Garden will open from 4:00-9:00 pm on Tuesdays to Fridays and 11:00am-9:00pm on weekends.
Apr 25th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleDon’t Cut State Dementia Care
County execs say growing problem needs continued state funding.
Apr 24th, 2017 by Chris Abele and Troy StreckenbachCounty Executive Abele Statement on DOJ Letter
"We are in compliance with the law and will share the required legal opinion by the date requested."
Apr 21st, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleCounty Creating Community Centers
Will focus on black employment, education. MPS may collaborate.
Apr 15th, 2017 by Jabril FarajCould Pabst Brewery Transform Industry?
CEO sees new Milwaukee brewery as place for innovative creations.
Apr 13th, 2017 by Michael HorneMilwaukee County Parks Back-to-Back Winners at MANDI Awards
Johnsons Park Wins MANDI Award for Revitalization Efforts Spearheaded by Center for Resilient Cities, Rotary Club of Milwaukee, Milwaukee County Parks
Apr 10th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleMilwaukee County to Partner With Wauwatosa to Add New County Parkland
"Protecting our natural spaces has long been a priority of mine."
Apr 6th, 2017 by County Executive Chris Abele7 Election Winners and Losers
Unions, Hmong community and county infighters were among the winners.
Apr 5th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneCommunity Restoration Centers Will Address Racial Disparities
Supervisor Weishan authored the resolution after listening to county residents discuss their priorities for the Office of African American Affairs.
Mar 28th, 2017 by Sup. John F. Weishan, Jr.County Board Okays Bid for Streetcar
Despite long odds against winning, county will submit bid to the city.
Mar 23rd, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneWill County Give Pension to State?
Board approves work group to study state takeover of pension system.
Mar 23rd, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneSupervisors to Consider Measure to Prevent Hidden Pension Reports
Ordinance Change Would Require Public Disclosure of Pension Errors
Mar 23rd, 2017 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.County Executive Chris Abele Introduces Resolution Denouncing Repeal of the Affordable Care Act
Reaffirms Milwaukee County’s Support of the ACA, Rejects American Health Care Act
Mar 22nd, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleBarrett Sells Milwaukee to GOP
City has reinvented itself, deserves greater investment from state, he argues.
Mar 20th, 2017 by Steven WaltersCounty Executive Admits His Inability to Manage County Pension System
"Abele's statement that the administration of the pension plan needs new management is a stunning admission that he is not capable of doing his job as the ultimate manager of all county departments..."
Mar 16th, 2017 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.Chisholm For Governor?
Will District Attorney run against Walker? DA's son encourages speculation.
Mar 15th, 2017 by Michael HorneCounty Executive Chris Abele Calls for Comprehensive Pension Reform
Asks County Board to Partner With Him to Protect Earned Benefits
Mar 15th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleHumboldt Park Beer Garden Fund Leads to $54,000 in Repairs
Improvements to Humboldt Park Beer pavilion include upgrades to restrooms and improved wheelchair accessibility, while maintaining the historical character of the building.
Mar 14th, 2017 by Sup. Jason HaasMilwaukee County Declares Snow Emergency On Monday, March 13th, Effective at 1:00PM, CST
Pursuant to this declaration, all non-essential departments will be closed for the safety of our employees and the public.
Mar 13th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleShould County Operate Streetcar?
Board members push -- belatedly -- for county transit to operate streetcar.
Mar 8th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneWho’s To Blame for Pension Mess?
County’s countless expensive mistakes go back at least 15 years -- and still no solution.
Mar 7th, 2017 by Bruce MurphySurvey Says: Milwaukee County Residents Support Our Vision for Parks
Community input from the 2016 household survey will support the County’s resident‐driven planning effort.
Mar 6th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleSue Black Faces More Controversy
Former county parks director investigated for management of Arizona Parks.
Mar 3rd, 2017 by Bruce MurphyCounty Executive Abele Announces Launch of Additional Public Hearings, Online Feedback for BHD
Goal is to increase public involvement and diversity of ideas to shape BHD budget
Mar 1st, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleAbele Administration Blocks Efforts to Understand Impact of Pension Errors
Abele administration has kept hidden a 2014 Voluntary Correction Plan report on pension errors for nearly three years
Mar 1st, 2017 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.2017 Milwaukee Film Festival Call for Entries Now Open
Festival Offers to Pay for All Work Screened; Free Entry for All Films; $34,500 in Cash Prizes Promised
Feb 28th, 2017 by Milwaukee FilmBucks Select Apartment Developer
Up-and-coming development firm will build 90-unit building
Feb 24th, 2017 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee County Executive Abele goes ‘On the Issues’ at Marquette Law School
Abele says his focus is not on conflict but cooperation to address the county’s biggest problems, including persistent racial disparities.
Feb 15th, 2017 by Marquette UniversityMilwaukee County’s Approach to Mental Health Reform is a National Success Story
In a series of interviews spanning several months, Buzzfeed documented the work of Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Division clinicians Tai Hooper and Hendriel Anderson.
Feb 14th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbelePublic Forum For Lake Park Bridge
Public invited to a meeting about the future of historic Ravine Road Bridge
Feb 13th, 2017 by Virginia SmallLegislators Could Trim Walker Budget
Does governor expect them to throw out his bag of goodies?
Feb 13th, 2017 by Steven WaltersContribution to Cavalier Johnson of $834
February 13, 2017 - View ReportA County Agenda For Black Community?
Role of Office of African American Affairs debated at listening session.
Feb 8th, 2017 by Jabril FarajCullen Improves County’s Collection of Delinquent Property Taxes
"...it has always been my goal to look at new ways to protect the taxpayers' hard earned money."
Feb 8th, 2017 by David Cullen10 Milwaukee County Accomplishments You Should Know About
Here is a run-down of the top 10 accomplishments we want you to know about from 2016.
Feb 7th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleSave the County Grounds. Again.
Tosa master plan will destroy rare 60-acre nature preserve.
Feb 6th, 2017 by LuAnne WashburnNew UCC Facility For Women Addicts
Heroin overdose deaths in county up 241% since 2010.
Feb 2nd, 2017 by Naomi WaxmanMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele, State Rep. David Crowley to Host Community Input Session on County Office on African American Affairs
This community input session will take place at the COA Goldin Center 2320 W. Burleigh St.
Jan 27th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Statement on Project Labor Agreements
..."I’m concerned that this legislation as crafted could hinder the successful training programs that the building and construction trades are providing the labor force in our region."
Jan 25th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces Prevention Effort Against Substance Abuse
The campaign is in its second year in Milwaukee County and is part of National Drug and Alcohol Fact Week .
Jan 24th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleCommon 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 MurphyMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Convenes Community Leaders on Office on African American Affairs
Ralph Hollmon to Spearhead Group’s Discussions on OAAA Hiring and Community Engagement
Jan 23rd, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleSheriff Clarke’s Meltdown?
He threatens to eliminate a citizen, uses vicious racial slur against another.
Jan 20th, 2017 by Bruce MurphyMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Joins Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach in Betting on a Packers Victory
Abele is joining the bet and sweetening the deal by adding in a case of Schlitz, the beer that made Milwaukee famous, and sausages from Usingers.
Jan 20th, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleMartin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration at King Center, Jan. 16
The first 200 people attending the program will receive a token for a ticket to the afternoon Milwaukee Bucks game.
Jan 4th, 2017 by Milwaukee County ParksMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Welcomes Legislature to 2017-2018 Session
“Congratulations and welcome to the members of the 2017-2018 legislative session.”
Jan 3rd, 2017 by County Executive Chris AbeleMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces $4.1 Million HUD Grant to Help Fund County’s Efforts on Homelessness
An increase of more than $580,000 over last year’s award.
Dec 22nd, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleSpotlight on Milwaukee County Workers: County Executive Chris Abele Applauds House of Correction Staff on “Excellent” Inspections
The state also specifically commended the programming at the HOC.
Dec 22nd, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleSpotlight on Milwaukee County Workers: Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Honors Employees Making a Difference
County Executive Abele is putting the spotlight on employees who have gone above and beyond to give back to our community and make a difference.
Dec 21st, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleSpotlight on Milwaukee County Workers: Milwaukee County Fleet Management Awarded “Fleet Top 100” Honor
Productivity is up to 98 percent through the use of key performance indicators available to all County employees for complete transparency.
Dec 20th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleSymphony Move Huge for Downtown
A big win for the orchestra and Downtown, with a minor impact on Marcus Center.
Dec 20th, 2016 by Bruce MurphySpotlight on Milwaukee County Workers: County Executive Chris Abele Recognizes Exceptional Performance Throughout the County
“I’d like to say a special thank you to just some of our great County employees...”
Dec 19th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleCounty Closes Lake Park Bridge
Abele administration cites safety concerns, seeks $2 million in private funds.
Dec 14th, 2016 by Virginia SmallPassengers with Disabilities Say Yes to MCTS: Company Breaks its ADA Bus Boardings Record
100,000+ Boardings with Passengers Using Mobility Devices in 2016
Dec 13th, 2016 by Milwaukee County Transit System33rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration “We Shall Overcome”
Presented in Cooperation with the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts
Dec 13th, 2016 by Marcus Performing Arts CenterNew Report Estimates Domes Cost
$64 million to replace or $14 to $54 million for repair approaches. Abele may favor relocation.
Dec 12th, 2016 by Virginia SmallFund for Lake Michigan Commits $250,000 to Estabrook Dam Removal
Removing the dam will restore crucial habitat for native fish species including sturgeon, walleye, salmon and trout.
Dec 8th, 2016 by Fund for Lake MichiganState Democrats Could Sink Still Lower
Yes, they’re at a historic low. But things could get worse.
Dec 8th, 2016 by Bruce MurphyHigh Time For Sheriff David Clarke To Get Back To Work
Four prisoners have died at the Milwaukee County Jail in recent months.
Dec 8th, 2016 by Democratic Party of WisconsinBucks and SkillSmart Partner on new Workforce Development Platform for Arena District Employment
First community town hall meeting scheduled for Dec. 15 at Journey House to introduce local jobseekers to the platform and assist with RPP certification.
Dec 8th, 2016 by Milwaukee BucksMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces Appointment of Margaret Daun as Corporation Counsel
Ms. Daun comes to Milwaukee County with diverse experience in the public and private sectors.
Dec 5th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleIndependent Engineering Firm Releases Report That Confirms Initial Cost Estimates for Domes Repairs
Estimates to repair the Domes range from $14 million to $64 million.
Dec 2nd, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele13 Short Facts About The Domes
Domes task force presented with data that reveals much about the popular attraction.
Dec 2nd, 2016 by Virginia SmallSeattle Offers Lesson for Milwaukee
Rather than simply launching free transit, King County creates more sustainable model.
Dec 1st, 2016 by Angie SchmittRep. Zepnick Speaks at Milwaukee Domes Grand Re-Opening, Calls for Community Engagement on Domes’ Next Steps
The grand re-opening event held today was a daylong celebration that included live Christmas music and a holiday floral show.
Dec 1st, 2016 by Josh ZepnickNew $17 Million Pension Administration Error Disclosed
Milwaukee County paid $11 million in lump sum pension payments in November to retirees and their beneficiaries to correct for underpayments.
Dec 1st, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.MCTS and County Executive Chris Abele Honor Rosa Parks with Headlight Tribute & Reserved Bus Seat
Every bus in the MCTS fleet will have a seat reserved in honor of Rosa Parks.
Nov 30th, 2016 by Milwaukee County Transit SystemMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces Appointment of Holly Davis as Director of the Department on Aging
Ms. Davis has a track record of service to underserved and vulnerable populations.
Nov 22nd, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleSouth Shore Park to Benefit from $1.2 Million Investment
One of the goals of the South Shore project is to remove the beach from many "10 worst" lists.
Nov 21st, 2016 by Ald. Marina DimitrijevicCounty Executive Abele Statement on Pension Board Decision on Dennis Dietscher
Dietscher was sentenced to 42 months incarceration after pleading guilty to felonious misconduct.
Nov 16th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleAbele Should Stand with Milwaukee County Residents and Help Shoulder the Burden of our Fiscal Challenges
"It's time for Abele to share the burden of Milwaukee County's fiscal challenges, like he promised."
Nov 11th, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces Budget Veto
He is accepting 43 of 44 amendments and asking the Board to consider one amendment that makes cuts to the county executive’s staff.
Nov 11th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleLipscomb Hails Supervisors’ Adoption of Balanced Budget
Budget cuts spending, reduces tax levy, halves wheel tax
Nov 7th, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.Donor Pledges $1 Million for Lake Park Bridge
But anonymous East Side philanthropist demands closing Ravine Road to vehicle traffic.
Nov 7th, 2016 by Virginia SmallMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Thanks County Board for Vote to Reconfirm Kerry Mitchell
Ms. Mitchell’s primary focus has been finding ways to invest in and support our most valuable asset -- our employees.
Nov 3rd, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleChairman Lipscomb Calls for Referendum on $60 Wheel Tax
Finance Committee unanimously recommends proposal to full board.
Nov 2nd, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Thanks Common Council for Their Support to Remove Estabrook Dam
MMSD will be responsible for removing the Dam once it obtains the necessary DNR permits.
Nov 1st, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleExperts Say County Wheel Tax Needed
14% of residents have no car, need transit system the tax would fund.
Nov 1st, 2016 by Naomi WaxmanCounty Supervisor Anthony Staskunas Opposes $60 Wheel Tax
"It is regressive, it's much higher than other wheel taxes around the state, and it is an extreme burden on those with multiple vehicles."
Oct 31st, 2016 by Sup. Tony StaskunasBroad Community Support for County Executive Abele’s Transit Plan
Independent fiscal experts sounding the alarm that Milwaukee County’s transit system is in trouble.
Oct 31st, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleThe Growth of Journey House
South-side non-profit rescues building, creates place for youth aging out of foster care.
Oct 27th, 2016 by Edgar MendezMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces the Reopening of Desert Dome
Grand Reopening Celebration Event Set for December 1st
Oct 26th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleIs a County Wheel Tax Needed?
Abele says yes, board members are opposed. Who’s right?
Oct 25th, 2016 by Bruce MurphyWhat People Are Saying About the Estabrook Dam: “Worthless,” “A Waste of Money,” “I Want the Dam Gone”
Here’s a look at what community members are telling County Executive Abele about the Estabrook Dam.
Oct 25th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleSupervisor Johnson: Abele’s Estabrook Scheme Offensive
"His anti-democratic scheme exploits the special powers granted to him by the Republican legislature in Madison."
Oct 25th, 2016 by Sup. Willie Johnson