Alderman José G. Pérez represents the 12th District on Milwaukee’s South Side, and won the April 2012 election against incumbent Jim Witkowiak.

Perez grew up in the district he now serves, at S. 10th and W. Walker streets, and was the oldest of two children. He told the Journal Sentinel his grandfather came from Puerto Rico in the early 1950s when agents from the Grede Foundry went to the island to recruit labor.

According to his official biography, Perez dropped out of high school and started college at age 26, after early work experience ranged from investigating welfare fraud to developing gang prevention and youth development programs for non-profit organizations. Perez later enrolled at Cardinal Stritch University and was the first Latino Student Government Association President and the first recipient of the Multi-Cultural Image Award that is now institutionalized at the university. He also served as an intern for Congressman Gerald Kleczka in Washington D.C. through the Hispanic Congressional Caucus Institute (1996), for Milwaukee Mayor John O. Norquist (1997) and for the Milwaukee City Clerk’s office (1998). Perez obtained a B.A. in political science from Cardinal Stritch in May 1999.

Perez soon became MICAH’s executive director and led the organization in creating the Good Jobs and Livable Neighborhoods Coalition, a group of labor and community organizations that worked to ensure the Park East Land Corridor development would benefit the entire city. He also served as Hispanic/Latino Advisory Committee member for former U.S. Senator Russ Feingold.

In February 2004, José joined the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrialized Organizations as a National Field Representative, and he next joined the City of Milwaukee’s Department of City Development (DCD) in January 2006. He served DCD as an Economic Development Specialist working on business development, real estate development, planning, permitting and public housing until September 2009. Jose then became a Program Officer for the City of Milwaukee’s Community Development Grants Administration, where he managed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act projects.

In addition to his university studies, José pursued many educational programs, attending several institutes and receiving certifications in finance, real estate, economic development, multicultural entrepreneurship, youth service, management skills and advanced leadership. Perez received The Business Journal’s Forty under 40 Community Leadership Award in 2008.

He ran for alderman as a champion of small business, and won by just 88 votes. Witkowiak fought for a recount, but Perez’s victory was upheld.

Campaign Finance Reports

2020 - July Continuing - $500 - 1 contributions

2021 - January Continuing - No Contributions

2020 - January Continuing - $32,995 - 143 contributions

2019 - July Continuing - $12,037 - 85 contributions

2019 - January Continuing - $13,705 - 95 contributions

2018 - July Continuing - $12,260 - 91 contributions

2017 - July Continuing - $1,975 - 17 contributions

2017 - January Continuing - $12,712 - 82 contributions

2016 - July Continuing - $9,707 - 68 contributions

2016 - Pre-Election - $34,119 - 183 contributions

2016 - January Continuing - $19,369 - 186 contributions

2015 - July Continuing - $19,234 - 158 contributions

2015 - January Continuing - $12,862 - 91 contributions

Photos

Content referencing José G. Pérez

City Hall: Council May Refine Makeup of Board of Zoning Appeals
City Hall

Council May Refine Makeup of Board of Zoning Appeals

Council President seeks more expertise in effort to overhaul boards and commissions.

City To Host Discussion On ICE Facility, But Attorney Suggests It May Be Moot Point

City To Host Discussion On ICE Facility, But Attorney Suggests It May Be Moot Point

But there are options the city has to possibly slow or redirect plan.

Is ICE Building A Detention Facility in Milwaukee?

Is ICE Building A Detention Facility in Milwaukee?

Politicians and community groups keep using the D word. ICE says no.

Statement on the passing of Felix Mantilla
Press Release

Statement on the passing of Felix Mantilla

Common Council President José G. Pérez January 13, 2025

We must make efforts to get ahead of the brewing storm –  Pushing back is not enough
Press Release

We must make efforts to get ahead of the brewing storm – Pushing back is not enough

Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez December 23, 2024

New Pub & Grill to Replace Smokey’s Lounge

New Pub & Grill to Replace Smokey’s Lounge

Salas Pub & Grill plans to open in the Forest Home Hills neighborhood this December.

Statement on Sen. Marco Rubio Event Cancellation
Trump once again shows his real feelings about Latinos, Puerto Ricans
Press Release

Trump once again shows his real feelings about Latinos, Puerto Ricans

Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez October 29, 2024

New Tavern Planned For Lincoln Avenue

New Tavern Planned For Lincoln Avenue

Dulce Diabla is poised to replace Diamante Negro near Forest Home Cemetery.

Early voting starts on Tuesday, Oct. 22 in the City of Milwaukee
In Special Meeting, Housing Authority Advances Controversial Privatization Deal

In Special Meeting, Housing Authority Advances Controversial Privatization Deal

But board still wants more information on how Florida firm would operate.

City Hall: Housing Authority Delays on Privatizing Voucher Management
City Hall

Housing Authority Delays on Privatizing Voucher Management

Federal government is requiring it, but community group, council president back a delay.

HACM Board Should Delay Decision on Outsourcing Section 8 Program
Press Release

HACM Board Should Delay Decision on Outsourcing Section 8 Program

Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez October 9, 2024

City Hall: HACM Moves To Outsource Vouchers, Common Ground Blasts Plan
City Hall

HACM Moves To Outsource Vouchers, Common Ground Blasts Plan

Beleaguered housing authority encounters opposition on plan to privatize governance.

City Hall: Proposal Seeks Big Impact With Small Piece of Federal ARPA Grant
City Hall

Proposal Seeks Big Impact With Small Piece of Federal ARPA Grant

Down payment assistance, housing for LGBTQ+ teens, eviction counseling and more.

African American Roundtable Speaks Out After Joint Public Budget Hearing
Council Invests Remaining ARPA Funds in Milwaukee’s Citizens
Latinos Leaders Endorse David Marstellar for Assembly in the 21st District
City Will Toughen Penalties For Reckless Drivers

City Will Toughen Penalties For Reckless Drivers

Latest crackdown relies on state legislation to double fines, jail time.

Officials Admit RNC Issues, But Say Event Was Success

Officials Admit RNC Issues, But Say Event Was Success

Hotel revenue surged and AT&T spent millions but some businesses say it was a bust.

Mitchell Street Arts Introduces Outdoor Installation Connecting People And Cultures Through Sound
Milwaukee Wins Federal Funds For Largest Ever Riverwalk Expansion

Milwaukee Wins Federal Funds For Largest Ever Riverwalk Expansion

$14.7 million grant will extend riverwalk almost to Bay View

Milwaukee Harbor District Riverwalk awarded $14.7 million in federal funding
Punta Cana Bar Reopening After 72-Day Suspension

Punta Cana Bar Reopening After 72-Day Suspension

Fights, a shooting and other violations led to months-long closure for new bar.

Council Again Delays Adopting People’s Flag

Council Again Delays Adopting People’s Flag

Parliamentary moves could delay vote on adoption until November.

Get #VoteReady on National Voter Registration Day
Press Release

Get #VoteReady on National Voter Registration Day

Joint statement from Common Council Members: Jonathan Brostoff, JoCasta Zamarripa, José G. Pérez, Marina Dimitrijevic, DiAndre Jackson, Lamont Westmoreland, Scott Spiker, Peter Burgelis, Russell W. Stamper, II, Sharlen Moore, Robert J. Bauman, Andrea M. Pratt, Milele A. Coggs, Mark Chambers, Jr., and Larresa Taylor

Mural contains hurtful, divisive words and images
Press Release

Mural contains hurtful, divisive words and images

Statement of Milwaukee Common Council Members: Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Andrea M. Pratt, Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr., Alderperson Jonathan Brostoff, Alderman Robert J. Bauman,  Alderman DiAndre Jackson, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Larresa Taylor, Alderwoman Sharlen P. Moore, Alderman Peter Burgelis, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

After False Start, New Nightclub Moving Forward in Walker’s Point

After False Start, New Nightclub Moving Forward in Walker’s Point

Last year, Common Council closed owner's prior club.

Common Ground, Residents Blast Housing Authority at Board Meeting

Common Ground, Residents Blast Housing Authority at Board Meeting

HACM board meets in person for first time since January, chair pledges they want to help.

City Hall: Committee Endorses Making People’s Flag Official, Despite Objections
City Hall

Committee Endorses Making People’s Flag Official, Despite Objections

Concerns about inclusivity of 2016 design contest continue to cloud process.

New Program Will Fund Driver’s Ed For Low-Income Students

New Program Will Fund Driver’s Ed For Low-Income Students

Insurance industry fees will cover 100% of driver’s ed cost. Effort led by Common Ground.

Meta House Developing $33 Million Women’s Treatment Center

Meta House Developing $33 Million Women’s Treatment Center

Ceremonial groundbreaking held for new complex at 39th and Bluemound.

Harris and Walz Rally Voters in Milwaukee

Harris and Walz Rally Voters in Milwaukee

18,000 people jammed Fiserv Forum to cheer Democratic presidential ticket on a one-night break from Chicago’s DNC.

Youth crime is reaching a tipping point
Press Release

Youth crime is reaching a tipping point

Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez August 8, 2024

New Lounge, Event Venue Hosts Grand Opening in Walker’s Point

New Lounge, Event Venue Hosts Grand Opening in Walker’s Point

Station 1846 serves coffee, cocktails and small bites, with space for casual hangouts, coworking and events.

City Hall: Momentum Grows for Cash Payments To Low-Income Pregnant Women, New Mothers
City Hall

Momentum Grows for Cash Payments To Low-Income Pregnant Women, New Mothers

Unconditional cash payment program initiated by Zilber would be expanded with city funding.

Open Letter to Mayor Johnson – Why Are You Protecting Willie Hines?
Pete Buttigieg Tours Port With Mayor, Rides Train With Governor

Pete Buttigieg Tours Port With Mayor, Rides Train With Governor

US Secretary of Transportation promotes Biden's infrastructure investments in region.

Beware of predatory colleges that promise quick degrees and employment
Press Release

Beware of predatory colleges that promise quick degrees and employment

Joint statement from members of the Common Council: Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Andrea Pratt, Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr., Alderperson Jonathan Brostoff, Alderman Robert Bauman, Alderman DiAndre Jackson, Alderwoman Sharlen P. Moore, Alderman José G. Pérez, and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic

Police-involved shooting under review
Press Release

Police-involved shooting under review

Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez July 17, 2024

Mayors Offer Plea To Republicans For Federal Support

Mayors Offer Plea To Republicans For Federal Support

Cavalier Johnson joined by Miami mayor and National League of Cities leader, among others.

Statement on the shooting at the rally of former President Donald Trump
Press Release

Statement on the shooting at the rally of former President Donald Trump

From Common Council President José G. Pérez July 14, 2024

City Hall: Attempt To Expand Disorderly Conduct Fine, Ban Bump Stocks Before RNC Fails
City Hall

Attempt To Expand Disorderly Conduct Fine, Ban Bump Stocks Before RNC Fails

Council members concerned about unintended consequences.

Proposal Asks City to Adopt ‘People’s Flag’

Proposal Asks City to Adopt ‘People’s Flag’

Ald. Peter Burgelis leads new push to replace what's been called one of the worst city flags in America.

High Stakes, Low Turnout Special Election Tuesday

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State senate race pits Dora Drake vs. LaKeshia Myers to replace Lena Taylor.

Vel Phillips Plaza Opens To Great Fanfare

Vel Phillips Plaza Opens To Great Fanfare

Downtown's new "front door" honors civil rights pioneer, trailblazer.

City Hall: Super Majority of Council Takes Issue With Mayor’s Handling of Housing Authority
City Hall

Super Majority of Council Takes Issue With Mayor’s Handling of Housing Authority

Council members want solutions, plan to "no longer tenable" situation.

Statement on the passing of José Olivieri
Press Release

Statement on the passing of José Olivieri

Statement on the passing of José Olivieri

City Hall: New Election Commission Director Approved
City Hall

New Election Commission Director Approved

Paulina Gutierrez has strong support of mayor, council president and commission staff.

Effort To Ban Guns From Area Around RNC Fails

Effort To Ban Guns From Area Around RNC Fails

Ald. Robert Bauman wanted to challenge state law, but his colleagues demur.

City Hall: Council Happy With New Election Chief
City Hall

Council Happy With New Election Chief

'You are honestly one of the smartest people I have ever met,' says one alderman.

Common Council to consider amendment for 6th & National TID #85 investment
City Hall: Council At Odds On Committee Assignments
City Hall

Council At Odds On Committee Assignments

But Pérez pledges to install Ald. Pratt as a vice chair within six months.

City Hall: Choice of Committee Chairs Criticized
City Hall

Choice of Committee Chairs Criticized

Council president Jose Perez 'shut all four Black women members out,' Ald. Pratt complains.

Statement on being re-elected to serve as Common Council president
Press Release

Statement on being re-elected to serve as Common Council president

Alderman José G. Pérez April 24, 2024

City Hall: Council, City Officials Celebrate Inauguration
City Hall

Council, City Officials Celebrate Inauguration

'When you go into public service, you should feel the weight and responsibility.'

City Hall: Council President Jose Perez Reelected
City Hall

Council President Jose Perez Reelected

Pérez wins by 10-5 vote over Milele Coggs to lead city's legislative body.

City Hall: New Council Most Diverse In Milwaukee History
City Hall

New Council Most Diverse In Milwaukee History

The largest number of Black, women and LBGTQ+ members in history. Meet all 15.

Diverse Common Council set to make history
Press Release

Diverse Common Council set to make history

Statement from members of the Common Council: Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr., Alderwoman Andrea M. Pratt, Alderman Jonathan Brostoff, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Larresa Taylor, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic

Biden Promotes ‘Life-Changing Improvements’ in Milwaukee Visit

Biden Promotes ‘Life-Changing Improvements’ in Milwaukee Visit

Speech at Pieper Hillside Boys & Girls Club promotes effort to rebuild 6th Street.

Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa Announces Slate of Endorsements for Re-election Campaign
After Missteps, Milwaukee Launching New Effort To Help Young Black Men

After Missteps, Milwaukee Launching New Effort To Help Young Black Men

Lack of resources, infighting doomed prior efforts. Walter Lanier is charting a new course.

Effort to create Milwaukee’s first official skate park gains approval from committee
Mayor Vetoes Controversial Insurance Partnership

Mayor Vetoes Controversial Insurance Partnership

Council narrowly endorsed idea, only for Mayor Cavalier Johnson to kill initiative.

Deputy Secretary of Commerce Visits With Milwaukee Latino Leaders

Deputy Secretary of Commerce Visits With Milwaukee Latino Leaders

Council President Pérez leads roundtable discussion at City Hall.

City Hall: Is Milwaukee Being Sold An Insurance Scam?
City Hall

Is Milwaukee Being Sold An Insurance Scam?

Or is exclusive contract with company offering water and sewer line warranties a good deal?

Council, Mayor Bickered On Brewers Deal

Council, Mayor Bickered On Brewers Deal

Council president said no more than $1 million, mayor said council was undermining city's negotiating position.

Fight At City Hall Over Control of Board of Zoning Appeals

Fight At City Hall Over Control of Board of Zoning Appeals

Council wants board to be independent of administration, but responsive to aldermanic input.

Council Votes To Close HEX Night Club

Council Votes To Close HEX Night Club

But the landlord appears to have beaten city to the punch.

Marisabel Cabrera Brings Experience and Dedication to Circuit Court Campaign
City Hall: Council Delays Housing Authority Crackdown To January 1
City Hall

Council Delays Housing Authority Crackdown To January 1

Delay due to uncertainty how many building inspectors will be needed.

Council, Residents Seek Solutions For Housing Authority Woes

Council, Residents Seek Solutions For Housing Authority Woes

Common Ground's complaints concern city officials, but can they fix problems?

The Housing Authority Must Be Brought to Account
Press Release

The Housing Authority Must Be Brought to Account

Statement from Common Council President José G. Pérez September 20, 2023

Milwaukee Still Paying $1 Million Per Year For Brewers Stadium

Milwaukee Still Paying $1 Million Per Year For Brewers Stadium

New request for $2.5 million annually comes as city still paying prior costs

Statement on stadium financing package proposal
Press Release

Statement on stadium financing package proposal

From Common Council members: José G. Pérez, Marina Dimitrijevic, JoCasta Zamarripa, Michael J. Murphy, Lamont Westmoreland, Mark A. Borkowski, and Scott Spiker

Council approves measure aimed at increasing diversity in DPW-bid projects
City Hall: Council, Mayor At Odds On City Lobbying
City Hall

Council, Mayor At Odds On City Lobbying

Council members feel they were left out of state revenue deal, want more control over city lobbyists.

Mayor Johnson Touts “One Milwaukee” Vision In State of City Speech

Mayor Johnson Touts “One Milwaukee” Vision In State of City Speech

Public safety, an end to reckless driving, more bike lanes, lead lateral replacement and a city government back from the brink.

Council Committee Endorses 2% Sales Tax

Council Committee Endorses 2% Sales Tax

And blasts state policy restrictions while insisting tax is far from a 'Milwaukee bailout.'

City Hall: Common Council Plans To Approve Sales Tax
City Hall

Common Council Plans To Approve Sales Tax

And later sue the state over policy restrictions. They 'will not dampen our creativity.'

Evers Celebrates Bipartisan Shared Revenue Law

Evers Celebrates Bipartisan Shared Revenue Law

It will increase state funding to all Wisconsin municipalities by at least 20%.

Statement from Common Council President José G. Pérez
Milwaukee Sales Tax Deal Reached, Referendum Dropped

Milwaukee Sales Tax Deal Reached, Referendum Dropped

Deal at Capitol requires Common Council, County Board to pass new taxes with two-thirds votes. Includes substantial policy measures.

City Hall: Milwaukee Now Requires More Notice When Contractors Dig Up Streets
City Hall

Milwaukee Now Requires More Notice When Contractors Dig Up Streets

Prior practice was "terrible" says Bay View alderwoman.

City Hall: The Ins and Outs of Milwaukee’s Financial Future
City Hall

The Ins and Outs of Milwaukee’s Financial Future

Republican legislators can't agree on how many strings to attach to funding proposal.

Statement on the Assembly’s passage of AB 245
Press Release

Statement on the Assembly’s passage of AB 245

Common Council President José G. Pérez May 18, 2023

City Hall: Potholes Are A Hot Problem in Milwaukee
City Hall

Potholes Are A Hot Problem in Milwaukee

Council members frustrated as complaints mount.

City Hall: City May Close Libraries, Cut 25% of Police and Fire Departments
City Hall

City May Close Libraries, Cut 25% of Police and Fire Departments

Milwaukee faces $156 million fiscal cliff without state help.

Back in the News: Wisconsin Center Dispute Goes National
Back in the News

Wisconsin Center Dispute Goes National

The Bulwark condemns decision to remove artwork while WTMJ defends it.

City Hall: Pérez Shakes Up Council Committees
City Hall

Pérez Shakes Up Council Committees

Changes after new members added: Ald. Scott Spiker gets his first gavel, Zamarripa loses hers.

Southside Nightclub Gets 30-Day Suspension

Southside Nightclub Gets 30-Day Suspension

Council expressed alarm at fatal shooting that took place outside Diamante Negro, which is to remain closed through May 18.

A new era begins for the Common Council, and for Milwaukee
Press Release

A new era begins for the Common Council, and for Milwaukee

Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez

Revised Letter to Wisconsin Center District CEO Marty Brooks
Murphy’s Law: Wisconsin Center Will Destroy Literary Artworks
Murphy’s Law

Wisconsin Center Will Destroy Literary Artworks

Nationally unique installation done in 1998. Public board didn't vote on its destruction.

March 31 marks a day of deep meaning for many in our community
Press Release

March 31 marks a day of deep meaning for many in our community

Statement of Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa March 31, 2023

César E. Chávez Day celebration happening Friday at City Hall
Hip Hop Chess Club worth checking out this weekend
Press Release

Hip Hop Chess Club worth checking out this weekend

Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez March 23, 2023

Marquette Law School to host Milwaukee leadership for ‘On the Issues: New Leadership, New Milwaukee,’ March 21
Police staffing study provides array of valuable recommendations
Press Release

Police staffing study provides array of valuable recommendations

Joint statement from Common Council President José G. Pérez and Public Safety and Health Committee Chair Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Approves Vape Shop Moratorium
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Approves Vape Shop Moratorium

No new e-cigarette stores until August. City must now craft a regulatory framework.

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