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
Council May Refine Makeup of Board of Zoning Appeals
Council President seeks more expertise in effort to overhaul boards and commissions.
Feb 5th, 2025 by Jeramey JanneneCity 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.
Jan 30th, 2025 by Jeramey JanneneIs ICE Building A Detention Facility in Milwaukee?
Politicians and community groups keep using the D word. ICE says no.
Jan 17th, 2025 by Jeramey JanneneStatement on the passing of Felix Mantilla
Common Council President José G. Pérez January 13, 2025
Jan 13th, 2025 by Common Council President Jose PerezWe 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
Dec 23rd, 2024 by Common Council President Jose PerezNew Pub & Grill to Replace Smokey’s Lounge
Salas Pub & Grill plans to open in the Forest Home Hills neighborhood this December.
Nov 13th, 2024 by Sophie BolichStatement on Sen. Marco Rubio Event Cancellation
Oct 29th, 2024 by Democratic Party of Wisconsin
Trump once again shows his real feelings about Latinos, Puerto Ricans
Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez October 29, 2024
Oct 29th, 2024 by Common Council President Jose PerezNew Tavern Planned For Lincoln Avenue
Dulce Diabla is poised to replace Diamante Negro near Forest Home Cemetery.
Oct 25th, 2024 by Sophie BolichEarly voting starts on Tuesday, Oct. 22 in the City of Milwaukee
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Oct 21st, 2024 by Common Council President Jose PerezIn Special Meeting, Housing Authority Advances Controversial Privatization Deal
But board still wants more information on how Florida firm would operate.
Oct 12th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneHousing Authority Delays on Privatizing Voucher Management
Federal government is requiring it, but community group, council president back a delay.
Oct 9th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneHACM Board Should Delay Decision on Outsourcing Section 8 Program
Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez October 9, 2024
Oct 9th, 2024 by Common Council President Jose PerezHACM Moves To Outsource Vouchers, Common Ground Blasts Plan
Beleaguered housing authority encounters opposition on plan to privatize governance.
Oct 8th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneProposal Seeks Big Impact With Small Piece of Federal ARPA Grant
Down payment assistance, housing for LGBTQ+ teens, eviction counseling and more.
Oct 8th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneAfrican American Roundtable Speaks Out After Joint Public Budget Hearing
Oct 8th, 2024 by African American Roundtable
Council Invests Remaining ARPA Funds in Milwaukee’s Citizens
Oct 7th, 2024 by Common Council President Jose Perez
Latinos Leaders Endorse David Marstellar for Assembly in the 21st District
Oct 3rd, 2024 by David Marstellar
City Will Toughen Penalties For Reckless Drivers
Latest crackdown relies on state legislation to double fines, jail time.
Oct 1st, 2024 by Sophie BolichOfficials Admit RNC Issues, But Say Event Was Success
Hotel revenue surged and AT&T spent millions but some businesses say it was a bust.
Oct 1st, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneMitchell Street Arts Introduces Outdoor Installation Connecting People And Cultures Through Sound
Sep 30th, 2024 by Mitchell Street Arts
Milwaukee Wins Federal Funds For Largest Ever Riverwalk Expansion
$14.7 million grant will extend riverwalk almost to Bay View
Sep 26th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Harbor District Riverwalk awarded $14.7 million in federal funding
Sep 26th, 2024 by City of Milwaukee Department of City Development
Punta Cana Bar Reopening After 72-Day Suspension
Fights, a shooting and other violations led to months-long closure for new bar.
Sep 26th, 2024 by Sophie BolichCouncil Again Delays Adopting People’s Flag
Parliamentary moves could delay vote on adoption until November.
Sep 24th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneGet #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
Sep 17th, 2024 by Milwaukee Common CouncilMural 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
Sep 14th, 2024 by Milwaukee Common CouncilAfter False Start, New Nightclub Moving Forward in Walker’s Point
Last year, Common Council closed owner's prior club.
Sep 13th, 2024 by Sophie BolichCommon Ground, Residents Blast Housing Authority at Board Meeting
HACM board meets in person for first time since January, chair pledges they want to help.
Sep 11th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneCommittee Endorses Making People’s Flag Official, Despite Objections
Concerns about inclusivity of 2016 design contest continue to cloud process.
Sep 9th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneNew 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.
Sep 5th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneMeta House Developing $33 Million Women’s Treatment Center
Ceremonial groundbreaking held for new complex at 39th and Bluemound.
Sep 2nd, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneHarris 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.
Aug 21st, 2024 by Sophie BolichYouth crime is reaching a tipping point
Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez August 8, 2024
Aug 8th, 2024 by Common Council President Jose PerezNew 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.
Aug 2nd, 2024 by Sophie BolichMomentum Grows for Cash Payments To Low-Income Pregnant Women, New Mothers
Unconditional cash payment program initiated by Zilber would be expanded with city funding.
Aug 2nd, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneOpen Letter to Mayor Johnson – Why Are You Protecting Willie Hines?
Aug 1st, 2024 by Common Ground Southeastern Wisconsin
Pete Buttigieg Tours Port With Mayor, Rides Train With Governor
US Secretary of Transportation promotes Biden's infrastructure investments in region.
Jul 31st, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneBeware 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
Jul 29th, 2024 by Milwaukee Common CouncilPolice-involved shooting under review
Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez July 17, 2024
Jul 17th, 2024 by Common Council President Jose PerezMayors Offer Plea To Republicans For Federal Support
Cavalier Johnson joined by Miami mayor and National League of Cities leader, among others.
Jul 15th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneStatement on the shooting at the rally of former President Donald Trump
From Common Council President José G. Pérez July 14, 2024
Jul 14th, 2024 by Common Council President Jose PerezAttempt To Expand Disorderly Conduct Fine, Ban Bump Stocks Before RNC Fails
Council members concerned about unintended consequences.
Jul 11th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneProposal 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.
Jul 2nd, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneHigh Stakes, Low Turnout Special Election Tuesday
State senate race pits Dora Drake vs. LaKeshia Myers to replace Lena Taylor.
Jul 1st, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneVel Phillips Plaza Opens To Great Fanfare
Downtown's new "front door" honors civil rights pioneer, trailblazer.
Jun 28th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneSuper Majority of Council Takes Issue With Mayor’s Handling of Housing Authority
Council members want solutions, plan to "no longer tenable" situation.
Jun 27th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneStatement on the passing of José Olivieri
Statement on the passing of José Olivieri
Jun 12th, 2024 by Common Council President Jose PerezNew Election Commission Director Approved
Paulina Gutierrez has strong support of mayor, council president and commission staff.
Jun 11th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneEffort To Ban Guns From Area Around RNC Fails
Ald. Robert Bauman wanted to challenge state law, but his colleagues demur.
Jun 7th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Happy With New Election Chief
'You are honestly one of the smartest people I have ever met,' says one alderman.
Jun 5th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneCommon Council to consider amendment for 6th & National TID #85 investment
May 22nd, 2024 by Common Council President Jose Perez
Council At Odds On Committee Assignments
But Pérez pledges to install Ald. Pratt as a vice chair within six months.
May 6th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneChoice of Committee Chairs Criticized
Council president Jose Perez 'shut all four Black women members out,' Ald. Pratt complains.
Apr 29th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneStatement on being re-elected to serve as Common Council president
Alderman José G. Pérez April 24, 2024
Apr 24th, 2024 by Common Council President Jose PerezCouncil, City Officials Celebrate Inauguration
'When you go into public service, you should feel the weight and responsibility.'
Apr 17th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil President Jose Perez Reelected
Pérez wins by 10-5 vote over Milele Coggs to lead city's legislative body.
Apr 16th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneNew Council Most Diverse In Milwaukee History
The largest number of Black, women and LBGTQ+ members in history. Meet all 15.
Apr 15th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneDiverse 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
Apr 3rd, 2024 by Milwaukee Common CouncilBiden Promotes ‘Life-Changing Improvements’ in Milwaukee Visit
Speech at Pieper Hillside Boys & Girls Club promotes effort to rebuild 6th Street.
Mar 13th, 2024 by Jeramey JanneneAlderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa Announces Slate of Endorsements for Re-election Campaign
Mar 5th, 2024 by Ald. JoCasta Zamarripa
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.
Jan 11th, 2024 by Jonmaesha BeltranEffort to create Milwaukee’s first official skate park gains approval from committee
Jan 9th, 2024 by Common Council President Jose Perez
Mayor Vetoes Controversial Insurance Partnership
Council narrowly endorsed idea, only for Mayor Cavalier Johnson to kill initiative.
Dec 15th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneDeputy Secretary of Commerce Visits With Milwaukee Latino Leaders
Council President Pérez leads roundtable discussion at City Hall.
Nov 30th, 2023 by Evan CaseyIs Milwaukee Being Sold An Insurance Scam?
Or is exclusive contract with company offering water and sewer line warranties a good deal?
Nov 29th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil, Mayor Bickered On Brewers Deal
Council president said no more than $1 million, mayor said council was undermining city's negotiating position.
Nov 29th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneFight At City Hall Over Control of Board of Zoning Appeals
Council wants board to be independent of administration, but responsive to aldermanic input.
Nov 8th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Votes To Close HEX Night Club
But the landlord appears to have beaten city to the punch.
Oct 31st, 2023 by Sophie BolichMarisabel Cabrera Brings Experience and Dedication to Circuit Court Campaign
Oct 22nd, 2023 by Marisabel Cabrera
Council Delays Housing Authority Crackdown To January 1
Delay due to uncertainty how many building inspectors will be needed.
Oct 10th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil, Residents Seek Solutions For Housing Authority Woes
Common Ground's complaints concern city officials, but can they fix problems?
Sep 26th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneThe Housing Authority Must Be Brought to Account
Statement from Common Council President José G. Pérez September 20, 2023
Sep 20th, 2023 by Common Council President Jose PerezMilwaukee Still Paying $1 Million Per Year For Brewers Stadium
New request for $2.5 million annually comes as city still paying prior costs
Sep 19th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneStatement 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
Sep 19th, 2023 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCouncil approves measure aimed at increasing diversity in DPW-bid projects
Jul 31st, 2023 by Ald. Milele Coggs
Council, Mayor At Odds On City Lobbying
Council members feel they were left out of state revenue deal, want more control over city lobbyists.
Jul 6th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneMayor 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.
Jun 26th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCouncil Committee Endorses 2% Sales Tax
And blasts state policy restrictions while insisting tax is far from a 'Milwaukee bailout.'
Jun 26th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCommon Council Plans To Approve Sales Tax
And later sue the state over policy restrictions. They 'will not dampen our creativity.'
Jun 21st, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneEvers Celebrates Bipartisan Shared Revenue Law
It will increase state funding to all Wisconsin municipalities by at least 20%.
Jun 20th, 2023 by Rob MentzerStatement from Common Council President José G. Pérez
Jun 8th, 2023 by Common Council President Jose Perez
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.
Jun 8th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneMilwaukee Now Requires More Notice When Contractors Dig Up Streets
Prior practice was "terrible" says Bay View alderwoman.
Jun 1st, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneThe Ins and Outs of Milwaukee’s Financial Future
Republican legislators can't agree on how many strings to attach to funding proposal.
May 22nd, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneStatement on the Assembly’s passage of AB 245
Common Council President José G. Pérez May 18, 2023
May 18th, 2023 by Common Council President Jose PerezPotholes Are A Hot Problem in Milwaukee
Council members frustrated as complaints mount.
Apr 26th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneCity May Close Libraries, Cut 25% of Police and Fire Departments
Milwaukee faces $156 million fiscal cliff without state help.
Apr 25th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneWisconsin Center Dispute Goes National
The Bulwark condemns decision to remove artwork while WTMJ defends it.
Apr 25th, 2023 by Bruce MurphyPérez Shakes Up Council Committees
Changes after new members added: Ald. Scott Spiker gets his first gavel, Zamarripa loses hers.
Apr 25th, 2023 by Jeramey JanneneSouthside 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.
Apr 20th, 2023 by Sophie BolichA new era begins for the Common Council, and for Milwaukee
Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez
Apr 14th, 2023 by Common Council President Jose PerezRevised Letter to Wisconsin Center District CEO Marty Brooks
Apr 11th, 2023 by Press Release
Wisconsin Center Will Destroy Literary Artworks
Nationally unique installation done in 1998. Public board didn't vote on its destruction.
Apr 4th, 2023 by Bruce MurphyMarch 31 marks a day of deep meaning for many in our community
Statement of Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa March 31, 2023
Mar 31st, 2023 by Ald. JoCasta ZamarripaCésar E. Chávez Day celebration happening Friday at City Hall
Mar 29th, 2023 by Common Council President Jose Perez
Hip Hop Chess Club worth checking out this weekend
Statement of Common Council President José G. Pérez March 23, 2023
Mar 23rd, 2023 by Common Council President Jose PerezPolice 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
Feb 23rd, 2023 by Common Council President Jose PerezCouncil Approves Vape Shop Moratorium
No new e-cigarette stores until August. City must now craft a regulatory framework.
Feb 7th, 2023 by Jeramey Jannene