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 8
Contribution to Jason Fields of $6,000
September 23, 2019 - View ReportContribution to Cavalier Johnson of $834
February 13, 2017 - View ReportPublic Policy Forum Reviews County Executive Abele’s 2017 Budget
Nonpartisan researchers concur that “sizable” amount of new revenue is needed to maintain service levels and catch up on seferred maintenance; Abele proposal offers permanent relief
Oct 20th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleDavid Clarke the Demagogue
A sheriff who once represented law and order has sold his soul to become a media star.
Oct 18th, 2016 by Bruce MurphyProst! To MillerCoors, Mural Artist at South Shore Terrace, Oct. 19
The celebration will begin at 4 p.m. with a keg tapping, toast to the artist, and free beer while the supply lasts.
Oct 14th, 2016 by Milwaukee County ParksAbele’s Budget Math Off by $2.5 Million
County Executive Chris Abele provided the County Board with an unbalanced budget on Monday, because he failed to apply his proposed fringe benefits increase to all the appropriate job classifications.
Oct 11th, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.Domes Makes Most Endangered List
One of 11 most endangered, says National Trust for Historic Preservation, which could help rally support.
Oct 5th, 2016 by Virginia SmallMilwaukee County Announces New Milestone in Efforts to End Chronic Homelessness
Milwaukee County opens Wisconsin’s First New Harm Reduction Housing Development
Oct 5th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele2017 Budget Talk Cut Short – Misses the Mark on Respect for Taxpayers
Supervisor Alexander holds fiscally conservative viewpoints on behalf of her constituents and opposes the wheel tax.
Oct 3rd, 2016 by Sup. Deanna AlexanderCounty Executive Chris Abele Introduces 2017 Executive Budget
Budget Commits to Building a Stronger Community with SAVE Transit Plan, Investment in Youth Programs and Public Safety, and Path towards $15 Living Wage
Sep 30th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleMilwaukee County Board Kicks Off Public Meetings on 2017 Recommended Budget
MILWAUKEE – Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr., has made special arrangements to provide County Executive Chris Abele with an opportunity to present the details of his 2017 Recommended Budget to the County Board of Supervisors on October 3, 2016, at 3:00pm. County Executive Abele will present his Recommended Budget to the Committee of the Whole at 3:00pm on Monday at the Courthouse. “We look forward to the County Executive’s presentation of his Recommended Budget on Monday,” said Chairman Lipscomb. “The Board will review the Executive’s proposal, analyze its details and listen to our constituents throughout the month of October before adopting a budget in November.” County Executive Abele has had a nearly year to work on this proposal before revealing the details of his budget recommendations to the public. The County Board will devote the next five weeks to analyzing the recommendations of the County Executive, so that a budget can be adopted at the Board’s November 7 meeting. The Finance and Audit Committee, led by Chair Peggy A. West, has set aside numerous days of open meetings in October to gather information from department heads, to get the public’s reaction to the Executive’s recommended actions, and to adopt budget amendments. The Finance and Audit Committee will hold a public hearing in the community on Tuesday, October 18, at 9:00am at the Milwaukee Public Schools administration building, 5225 W. Vliet St. in Milwaukee. The County Board has also scheduled a public hearing to listen as constituents weigh in with their concerns and priorities for the 2017 Milwaukee County budget. The full County Board will hold a public hearing on Monday, October 31, at 6:00pm, at the Marcus Center, 929 N. Water St., in downtown Milwaukee. Members of the public are encouraged to attend these public hearings and bring their questions, concerns, and priorities directly to their County Board Supervisor.
Sep 30th, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.County Executive Abele Breaks Commitment to Not Increase Taxes
Proposed wheel tax is an 80% increase for suburbs, 63% increase for city
Sep 29th, 2016 by Sup. Michael MayoCounty Executive Chris Abele Announces SAVE Transit Plan
Without new revenue and some operational changes, the transit system in Milwaukee County is at risk.
Sep 29th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleChris Abele Unveils Plan to Save Transportation
Annual fee would provide $27 million for county transit and roads. One supervisor already opposed.
Sep 29th, 2016 by Jeramey JanneneCounty Executive Chris Abele Lays Out Path to $15/Hour Minimum Wage
A majority of Wisconsinites support increasing the minimum wage to $15 per hour.
Sep 28th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleChinese Lantern Festival Opening at Boerner Botanical Gardens, Oct. 1
It's a celebration of Asian culture featuring 40 larger-than-life sculptural lantern displays.
Sep 26th, 2016 by Milwaukee County ParksMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces Update on The Domes
A grand reopening event for all three Domes is being planned for early December.
Sep 26th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleMilwaukee County Receives Initial Federal Approval for Bus Rapid Transit
This approval allows the County and MCTS to begin environmental and engineering studies on the route.
Sep 23rd, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleMilwaukee Film Festival Announces Expected Festival Guests
Headliners include Academy Award-winner John Ridley, Emmy Award-winner Sam Pollard, The Blind Side actor Quinton Aaron, Silicon Valley actor Martin Starr, and Arrested Development actor Mae Whitman
Sep 15th, 2016 by Milwaukee FilmEnough! It’s Time to Tear Down the Estabrook Dam
For years, there has been a consensus among the Milwaukee community that the dam should be removed.
Sep 14th, 2016 by Milwaukee Works, Inc.County Executive Chris Abele, Supervisor Marina Dimitrijevic Announce $350,000 EPA Grant for South Shore Project
The South Shore project aims to improve water quality and beach health, with a long term goal of being removed from the top 10 worst beach list.
Sep 13th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleBoard Chairman Lipscomb and Parks Committee Chair Haas Announce 9/13/2016 Public Hearing on Pokemon Go and 2017 Parks Budget Request
Invite Public to Testify about Pokemon GO in the Park and Proposed Parking Meters on the Lakefront
Sep 12th, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.MCTS Employee Named to Top 40 Under 40 List
Mass Transit Magazine Honors Professionals from Across the Country
Sep 8th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleAbele’s “asinine” comment regarding Public Safety Action Plan way off base
Statement from Alderman Bob Donovan September 6, 2016
Sep 6th, 2016 by State Rep. Bob Donovan2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Box Office Opens on Thursday
Today is last day to buy discounted festival passes and ticket 6-Packs. New Age Narcissism headlines Opening Night Party
Sep 6th, 2016 by Milwaukee FilmMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces Reappointment of DHHS Director Héctor Colón
Colón Reappointment Wins Endorsement of Mayor Barrett, Gov. Doyle, Wisconsin Center for Performance Excellence, broad coalition of community members
Sep 1st, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleDisney’s Queen of Katwe and Academy Award-Winners Highlight Spotlight Presentations
Festival opens with Life, Animated from Academy Award-winner Roger Ross Williams. Milwaukee 53206: A Community Serves Time returns to Milwaukee after sold-out June premiere
Sep 1st, 2016 by Milwaukee FilmMexico Opens 50th US Consulate Here
A big turnout of American and Mexican politicians with "Trumpism" in the air.
Aug 31st, 2016 by Michael HorneCounty Executive Chris Abele Announces “Parks with Purpose” Community Workshops
Information gathered will support the two major park planning efforts underway simultaneously.
Aug 31st, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleAn “Extraordinary” Frank Lloyd Wright
Terrace Ave. home cost Manpower exec Robert Elsner $37,000 in 1955, now worth $750,000.
Aug 31st, 2016 by Michael HorneStatement of IBEW Local 494 on Milwaukee County’s Sale of the Downtown Transit Center
"The Couture is the next big step forward in Milwaukee's ongoing renaissance."
Aug 31st, 2016 by International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 494Couture Economic Development Project to Move Forward
County Executive Chris Abele Announces Closing on Sale of Downtown Transit Center.
Aug 30th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleMilwaukee County Receives $2.4 Million Grant from SAMHSA to Support Housing First Initiative to End Chronic Homelessness
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supports County-wide collaborative to end chronic homelessness
Aug 29th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleMilwaukee County to Move Forward on $2.3 Million Investment at Mary Ryan Boys & Girls Club in Sherman Park
“Recent events in Milwaukee have proven how much we rely on institutions like Boys & Girls Clubs to serve as anchors in their communities,” County Executive Chris Abele said.
Aug 26th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleLast Buses Pull Out of Downtown Transit Center This Weekend
The Transit Center property was sold by Milwaukee County to developer Rick Barrett who is redeveloping the land into The Couture project.
Aug 26th, 2016 by Milwaukee County Transit SystemWe WANT You to Pika-choose Milwaukee County Parks
“To be clear, simply playing Pokémon GO doesn’t require a permit...”
Aug 25th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces John Ridley to Join Board of Directors
Academy Award-winner and Mequon native will be this year’s keynote speaker
Aug 25th, 2016 by Milwaukee Film2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Cream City Cinema Program Lineup
58 locally-made films to be presented; $12,500 to be awarded in juried prizes
Aug 23rd, 2016 by Milwaukee FilmCounty Executive Announces Hiring of Department on Aging Director
Ms. Davis comes to Milwaukee County having run large and complex agencies and organizations.
Aug 19th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Reveals Cine Sin Fronteras Program Lineup
Showcasing the rich and vibrant Latinx diaspora through cinema
Aug 11th, 2016 by Milwaukee FilmChairman Lipscomb Responds to Administration Proposal to Charge for Lakefront Parking
Asks, “Who would want to impose a tax on Independence Day celebrations and family picnics at the lakefront?”
Aug 10th, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.19 Election Winners and Losers
Beyond the candidates, behind the scenes. who won, who lost?
Aug 10th, 2016 by Bruce MurphySheriff Clarke Seeks 50% Tax Levy Increase
His budget request asks for 206 additional full-time positions, a 29% increase in his staff.
Aug 9th, 2016 by Gretchen Schuldt2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Launches Sportsball! and United States of Cinema Programs
Programs include feature-length sports documentaries and American independent fiction films
Aug 9th, 2016 by Milwaukee FilmCan Chisholm Be Beaten?
The DA pleads for help as dark money from outside the county blasts him.
Aug 8th, 2016 by Bruce MurphyInaugural Chinese Lantern Festival Comes to Boerner Botanical Gardens in October
1,000 sculptural components will be created on-site by more than 30 artists from China.
Aug 8th, 2016 by Milwaukee County ParksDistrict Attorney John Chisholm earns support of community leaders, elected officials, labor unions, citizen organizations, and law enforcement groups
Chisholm, a veteran of the United States Army, was first elected in 2006 after serving 12 years as an assistant prosecutor, including leading the gun unit.
Aug 5th, 2016 by John ChisholmEstabrook Dam Removal May Cost County Over $13 Million Dollars
The property value claim alone is estimated to be in the neighborhood of $12 million.
Aug 5th, 2016 by Milwaukee River Preservation AssociationCounty Executive Chris Abele Endorses Jason Fields for State Assembly
“Jason has always been focused on finding solutions, and not looking for fights,” said County Executive Chris Abele.
Aug 3rd, 2016 by State Rep. Jason FieldsAlex Lasry’s $1 Million Waterfront Condo
And why not? The son of Bucks owner Marc Lasry has become a MAJOR player in town.
Aug 3rd, 2016 by Michael HorneCounty Executive Chris Abele endorses Senator Lena Taylor
“I'm proud to endorse Senator Lena Taylor’s reelection on August 9,” said County Executive Chris Abele.
Aug 3rd, 2016 by State Sen. Lena TaylorMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces 2017 Budget Listening Sessions
“As we do the work of creating a responsible budget for the upcoming year, I look forward to hearing from the public”
Aug 2nd, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Black Lens Program Lineup
Showcases fiction and documentary films from emerging and established African-American directors
Aug 2nd, 2016 by Milwaukee FilmLake Park Bridge Faces Thorny Issues
Citizens narrow options, but funding issue still makes any solution tough to accomplish.
Jul 29th, 2016 by Virginia SmallCity Approves Bus Rapid Transit
Nine-mile BRT project rolls forward, but not without strategic modifications.
Jul 26th, 2016 by Jeramey JanneneBlack Residents Talk About Police Misconduct
Demands for accountability at listening session of county Office of African American Affairs.
Jul 22nd, 2016 by Jabril FarajDowntown Employee Appreciation Week Begins Monday July 25
The opening ceremony well be held at Red Arrow Park from 11:45 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Jul 22nd, 2016 by Milwaukee Downtown, BID 21Schools With Low-Income Students Can Succeed
But they tend to be charter schools. Will Abele use OSPP to create more?
Jul 20th, 2016 by Bruce ThompsonInternational Agreement to Bring Chinese Lantern Festival to Boerner Botanical Gardens in October
Throughout October, the festival’s 40 giant displays will illuminate nine acres of the Botanical Gardens.
Jul 19th, 2016 by Milwaukee County ParksCounty Executive Chris Abele Endorses David Crowley for State Assembly
"David has proven his worth to Milwaukee over the course of his career, said Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele.
Jul 19th, 2016 by County Executive David Crowley2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Reveals Second List of Official Selections
Lineup includes Beware the Slenderman and a new sports documentary program
Jul 19th, 2016 by Milwaukee FilmMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele endorses Hillary Clinton
"Secretary Clinton is the best candidate to unite our Country and continue moving us forward so that every American has a shot at building their American Dream,” Milwaukee County Executive Abele said.
Jul 18th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleFree Pokémon Go Event in Mitchell Park July 23
In addition to the smartphone game, families will enjoy photo-ops and Pokémon-themed games.
Jul 15th, 2016 by Milwaukee County ParksCan MPS Learn From the Data?
Its rejection of the Opportunity Schools Partnership is merely one sign the answer is no.
Jul 13th, 2016 by Bruce ThompsonCity Panel Approves Bus Rapid Transit
BRT line linking Downtown and Tosa moves forward, though some decry "the rush."
Jul 13th, 2016 by Jeramey JanneneCounty Executive Chris Abele endorses DA John Chisholm
“I am proud to endorse District Attorney John Chisholm,” said County Executive Chris Abele.
Jul 13th, 2016 by John ChisholmMilwaukee County BRT Project Receives Wide Ranging Support from Community Leaders, Advocates, Business Groups and Riders
County Board and Milwaukee Common Council Committees Expected to Vote on BRT This Week
Jul 11th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele4th Annual IndiaFest Milwaukee Returns to Humboldt Park Aug. 20
Experience Mini-India
Jul 7th, 2016 by Milwaukee County ParksMilwaukee Film Announces Addition of Mark Sabljak to Festival Staff
Former Milwaukee Business Journal publisher and market president joins team for 2016 film festival
Jul 7th, 2016 by Milwaukee FilmCounty Executive Abele endorses Thomas Harris for Senate
“I have known and worked with Thomas for years and I can say unequivocally that he is best person in the race to help us tackle the challenges facing Milwaukee,” Chris Abele said.
Jul 7th, 2016 by Thomas HarrisRepublican Takeover of MPS is a Failure
Resignation of Takeover Czar a Victory for Milwaukee Children
Jul 1st, 2016 by Wisconsin Jobs NowMilwaukee County Chosen for White House Data Driven Justice Initiative
The program aims to reduce incarceration through comprehensive, data-driven reforms.
Jul 1st, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleJulie Meyer, 20th District Assembly Candidate, Praises Demond Means’ Decision to Abandon Chris Abele’s MPS Takeover Plan
Julie Meyer is a 29-year MPS teacher that believes the Opportunity Schools and Partnership Program is a threat to the existence of public education in Milwaukee
Jun 29th, 2016 by Julie MeyerTakeover Commissioner Demond Means’ Resignation a Victory for Milwaukee Students and Community
“We will continue to resist any attack on our community’s fundamental democratic rights that would remove public institutions from the control of our publicly elected school board,” said MTEA President Kim Schroeder.
Jun 29th, 2016 by Milwaukee Teachers’ Education AssociationMPS Creates More Community Schools
New reform comes after school board rejects proposed state OSPP plan by Abele.
Jun 29th, 2016 by Jabril FarajSurvey Seeks Opinions on Domes’ Future
County asks citizens to complete online survey with nine options for Mitchell Park Domes.
Jun 29th, 2016 by Virginia Small2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Reveals First List of Official Selections
Milwaukee Film announces new Latinx diaspora program and film festival venues
Jun 28th, 2016 by Milwaukee FilmUpdate regarding Opportunity Schools and Partnership Plan (OSPP)
No decision was reached today.
Jun 23rd, 2016 by Milwaukee Public SchoolsMPS Board President Mark Sain, Superintendent Dr. Darienne Driver issue statement regarding Opportunity Schools and Partnership Plan (OSPP)
We recently requested a meeting with County Executive Abele and Commissioner Means to discuss an alternative to the OSPP proposal.
Jun 17th, 2016 by Milwaukee Public SchoolsMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Applauds City of Wauwatosa Decision to Advance Bus Rapid Transit
“The City of Wauwatosa is always a great partner when it comes to economic development, public safety, and growing strong communities."
Jun 16th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleMCTS Driver Helps Girl Escape from Dangerous Situation
Chambers is no stranger to being recognized for her good works; she has received numerous commendations during her 12 years as an MCTS driver.
Jun 16th, 2016 by Milwaukee County Transit SystemPrideFest Milwaukee celebrates triumph over tragedy
Community unites for largest LGBTQ pride celebration ever
Jun 13th, 2016 by Milwaukee Pride, Inc.Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces New Bathroom Policy
“As of today, the restrooms in my office are gender neutral."
Jun 10th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleBucks Groundbreaking and Second Annual Block Party Set for June 18
Oscar Robertson, Jabari Parker, Bucks owners and elected officials all scheduled to attend
Jun 8th, 2016 by Milwaukee BucksYou’re invited to our Opening Ceremonies!
PrideFest celebrates community heroes Friday, June 10
Jun 7th, 2016 by PrideFestDoes Anyone Oppose Bus Rapid Transit?
The idea is very unsexy, yet has gained amazingly wide support.
Jun 7th, 2016 by Bruce MurphyCounty’s defensive reaction to committee testimony disappointing
Statement from Alderman Bob Donovan June 7, 2016
Jun 7th, 2016 by State Rep. Bob DonovanGun Violence Rally Calls for Change
Politicians, citizens decry problem in Milwaukee, which saw spike in gun violence last year.
Jun 5th, 2016 by Brendan O’BrienOn MPS, Adults Turn in Homework Late
Milwaukee leaders deserve failing grade on Partnership Program.
Jun 3rd, 2016 by Ola LisowskiMCTS and Summerfest Team Up to Offer a New Way to Get to the Big Gig
Cash may be king, but the all-new MCTS Pre>Fare is a rock star at getting you to Summerfest!
Jun 3rd, 2016 by Milwaukee County Transit SystemNational Gun Violence Awareness Day
Turning Wisconsin Orange to Help End Gun Violence
Jun 2nd, 2016 by Urban MilwaukeeMarquette/Aurora Partnership Shows Leadership
New $120 million athletics research center may have more economic impact than Bucks arena.
May 31st, 2016 by John TorinusWhy Federal Court Rejected Archer Suit
Eric O’Keefe’s attempt to punish DA John Chisholm was way thin on evidence.
May 31st, 2016 by Bruce ThompsonCounty Executive Chris Abele Statement on Creation of Office on African American Affairs
“I want to thank the County Board for unanimously supporting the mission of the Office on African American Affairs today.”
May 26th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleCounty Executive Abele, Dr. Demond Means Make Announcement on OSPP Timeline
"Even though MPS agrees with us that this law is not ideal, we are asking them to be open to a conversation with us about how we can implement the law in the most productive way possible."
May 26th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleMilwaukee Film Announces World Premiere Screening of Milwaukee 53206
Film explores the lives of those affected by mass incarceration in Milwaukee
May 26th, 2016 by Milwaukee FilmHow to Destroy a Transit System
County board's free bus ride program triggers huge deficits that could overwhelm system.
May 24th, 2016 by Bruce MurphyMPS Teachers Oppose State Partnership Plan
They demand specifics; Demond Means denies he will “takeover” failing schools.
May 21st, 2016 by Jabril FarajPolitiFact Wisconsin Issues “Pants on Fire” Rating to Claim that OSPP Commissioner Wants to “Gut” MPS
Did Means really say that? In a word: No.”
May 20th, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleWhy Urban School Chiefs Fail
The lessons of former MPS superintendent Gregory Thornton’s firing in Baltimore.
May 19th, 2016 by Bruce MurphyChris Abele and Demond Means Miss Key Facts About the Community Schools Model
"It’s important to note that Community Schools are more than community partnerships."
May 18th, 2016 by Milwaukee Teachers’ Education AssociationMCTS Mourns the Loss of 9-Year-Old Za’layia Jenkins
Za’layia’s mother works for MCTS in the Customer Service Department.
May 17th, 2016 by Milwaukee County Transit System