Alderman Michael Murphy of District 10 on Milwaukee’s West Side, was first elected at age 27 in 1989, and is the city’s longest-serving alderman.

Michael Murphy is a lifelong West Side resident, a member of the Gesu Parish, and the first son of Irish immigrants to be born in America, his official biography reveals.

Murphy attended Hi Mount and St. Catherine’s elementary schools and graduated from Milwaukee’s Madison High School in 1980. In 1986, he earned a B.S. degree in Geological Sciences from UW-Madison and he has since completed graduate course work toward a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. To pay his way through college, he worked in the Milwaukee Public Museum’s Geology Department and as a lab technician at Great Lakes Research Institute researching the effects of heavy metal contaminants in the Fox River Valley.

Murphy has been reelected six times.  Since April 2004 he has served as chair of the Common Council’s budget-writing Finance and Personnel Committee. He is also vice chair of the Steering and Rules Committee and a member of the Council’s Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee.

Murphy has served on many different boards over the years. He currently serves as chair of both the Investment Committee of the Employees’ Retirement System and the Milwaukee Arts Board. Murphy describes himself as a long-time supporter of the local arts.

In 2012, Murphy received the “Common Ground Hero Award” from the Southeastern Wisconsin branch of the non-profit Common Ground group. He was cited for his work in helping the group fight the foreclosure crisis in Milwaukee. Murphy worked with Common Ground to secure $33.8 million from five major banks (Bank of America, JP Morgan Chase, Deutsche Bank, US Bank and Wells Fargo) to help rescue homeowners facing foreclosures.

Murphy also received the Arts Leadership Award from the String Academy of UW-Milwaukee for his “long term dedication to the importance of the arts in the lives of Milwaukee’s citizens and children.”

Murphy, along with the Common Council, has supported 180 Degree Properties, LLC to fight unemployment.

Murphy met with Aurora Health Care officials out of concern that Sinai Medical Center might close its emergency department.

Seeing a growing need for supportive housing for Milwaukee’s at-risk populations, Alderman Murphy brought to life the Housing Trust Fund Task Force in 2006, which has helped fund numerous housing projects throughout the community.

Murphy was among nine aldermen who criticized the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel for misleading the public about how the police department reported crime data.

Campaign Finance Reports

2021 - January Continuing - No Contributions

2020 - January Continuing - $300 - 1 contributions

2019 - January Continuing - $72 - 1 contributions

2018 - July Continuing - Report Not in System

2016 - July Continuing - $26,702 - 202 contributions

2016 - Pre-Election - $1,600 - 5 contributions

2016 - January Continuing - $850 - 4 contributions

Photos

Content referencing Michael Murphy

Committee Punts On For-Profit College Approval

Committee Punts On For-Profit College Approval

But without approval, Arizona College of Nursing issue seems likely headed to court.

Vacant Building Would Become Gaming Center

Vacant Building Would Become Gaming Center

Building at 16th and Walnut would see new life as "PrimeTime Gaming"

Cavalier Johnson Is All In On Growing Milwaukee

Cavalier Johnson Is All In On Growing Milwaukee

Annual State of the City speech places growth plan front and center.

How A Billboard Saved A Vacant Building

How A Billboard Saved A Vacant Building

Printing business will relocate to vacant, city-owned building on Appleton and Burleigh.

New Plan Would Save Former Acapulco Restaurant Building

New Plan Would Save Former Acapulco Restaurant Building

And a new brunch restaurant would fill the popular restaurant's space.

City Hall: Milwaukee Will Pay More Than $60,000 To Settle Tearman Spencer Harassment Claim
City Hall

Milwaukee Will Pay More Than $60,000 To Settle Tearman Spencer Harassment Claim

Council moves to approve settlement while Spencer seeks reelection.

Eitel Cancels Plans For Vel Phillips Plaza Cafe After Council Questions, Public Opposition

Eitel Cancels Plans For Vel Phillips Plaza Cafe After Council Questions, Public Opposition

After Milwaukee Turners "pilloried" Eitel on Tuesday, things appear to have snowballed behind the scenes.

Milwaukee Will Build 45 Traffic Calming Projects in 2024

Milwaukee Will Build 45 Traffic Calming Projects in 2024

'Reckless drivers, they infuriate me,' says Mayor Cavalier Johnson.

City Won’t Fully Regulate Airbnb In Milwaukee

City Won’t Fully Regulate Airbnb In Milwaukee

Mayor's staff recommends letting status quo stand, council wants more discussion.

City Hall: Council Approves Raises For Elected Officials, Administrators
City Hall

Council Approves Raises For Elected Officials, Administrators

Vote was 9-6. Elected officials will get 15% hike, non-elected leaders even more.

City Hall: Elected Officials Pay Hike Wins First Endorsement, Opposition
City Hall

Elected Officials Pay Hike Wins First Endorsement, Opposition

Multi-million dollar proposal also includes raises for dozens of department, division leaders.

City Expects to Take Northridge In Foreclosure, Demolish Mall

City Expects to Take Northridge In Foreclosure, Demolish Mall

'Checkmate' says alderman of mall owners missing the foreclosure redemption date.

Committee approves ordinance creating enhanced safeguards against environmental contaminations
Election Commission Boots Griffin From Ballot

Election Commission Boots Griffin From Ballot

Griffin vows appeal, and warns that those involved will 'probably go to prison.'

Mayor Vetoes Controversial Insurance Partnership

Mayor Vetoes Controversial Insurance Partnership

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

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?

Statement on the Confirmation of Jezamil Arroyo-Vega as the Commissioner of Neighborhood Services
Press Release

Statement on the Confirmation of Jezamil Arroyo-Vega as the Commissioner of Neighborhood Services

From members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Lamont Westmoreland, Alderperson Jonathan Brostoff, Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr., Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Andrea M. Pratt, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderwoman Larresa Taylor, and Alderman Khalif J. Rainey

Council Overrides Mayor’s Veto, Adopts 2024 Milwaukee Budget

Council Overrides Mayor’s Veto, Adopts 2024 Milwaukee Budget

Mayor Johnson attempted to lower property tax increase using federal grant.

Nonprofit executive and community advocate Sharlen Moore files for candidacy to serve residents of the 10th Aldermanic District
Mayor’s Veto Reduces Property Tax

Mayor’s Veto Reduces Property Tax

Cavalier Johnson issues single veto, replacing small tax hike with federal grant money.

How Will Council Handle Scathing Report on City Attorney?

How Will Council Handle Scathing Report on City Attorney?

Deputy city attorney's moonlighting and Tearman Spencer's lax oversight at issue.

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.

Full Legalization of Scooters Ends Up In City Budget

Full Legalization of Scooters Ends Up In City Budget

But it doesn't mean it immediately goes into effect.

2024 Milwaukee Budget Increases Services, Taxes

2024 Milwaukee Budget Increases Services, Taxes

New sales tax allows city to avoid drastic cuts, but comes at a cost.

Common Council votes to reauthorize anti-displacement housing policy
Longest Tenured Council Member, Michael Murphy, Not Seeking Reelection

Longest Tenured Council Member, Michael Murphy, Not Seeking Reelection

But he could run for Comptroller. First elected in 1989, Murphy announces he won't run for reelection.

Tentative Deal Would Salvage Milwaukee’s Deconstruction Program

Tentative Deal Would Salvage Milwaukee’s Deconstruction Program

Northcott Neighborhood House could step in to do work for long-delayed program.

Council Might Hold Up Mayor’s Changes To Zoning Board

Council Might Hold Up Mayor’s Changes To Zoning Board

At issue is new chair, two new appointments and oversight by Department of Administration.

Bill Would Allow New Bars To Offer Indoor Cigar, Pipe Smoking

Bill Would Allow New Bars To Offer Indoor Cigar, Pipe Smoking

City of Milwaukee could support the bill, but raised questions over regulation.

City Hall: Council Wants New Deal, Says Convention Center ‘Outsmarted’ City
City Hall

Council Wants New Deal, Says Convention Center ‘Outsmarted’ City

No revenue sharing payments to city expected for next two years under 2020 deal.

Milwaukee Wants More Reckless Drivers Towed

Milwaukee Wants More Reckless Drivers Towed

United council backs state law change. But proposal could die in Legislature.

New Housing Center For Those Recovering From Substance Abuse

New Housing Center For Those Recovering From Substance Abuse

Wisconsin Community Services to build project near W. Capitol Drive.

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.

City Hall: Mayor Johnson Backs Pay Hikes For Elected Officials, Including Him
City Hall

Mayor Johnson Backs Pay Hikes For Elected Officials, Including Him

Raises for 81 employees defended by mayor's chief of staff in exclusive interview.

After IKON Hotel Issues, Council Moves To Assert More Control of TIF Districts

After IKON Hotel Issues, Council Moves To Assert More Control of TIF Districts

City has foregone $540,000 in interest payments at discretion of administration.

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?

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

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Evacuates 27th Street Building Over Safety Concerns
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Evacuates 27th Street Building Over Safety Concerns

It's expected to be months before residents can move back in.

Eyes on Milwaukee: 576-Unit Bay View Apartment Complex Wins Key Approval
Eyes on Milwaukee

576-Unit Bay View Apartment Complex Wins Key Approval

Bear Development seeks to start construction, but what about environmental remediation?

Court Blocks Judges’ Quick Termination of Court Alternatives Program

Court Blocks Judges’ Quick Termination of Court Alternatives Program

But exactly why two judges pursued terminating decades-old JusticePoint partnership is unclear.

Council Members Want Better Pay For Museum Food Service Workers

Council Members Want Better Pay For Museum Food Service Workers

Zoning vote could hinge on oft-overlooked city policy.

City Hall: Council Demands Control of Lobbying, Despite Mayoral Pushback
City Hall

Council Demands Control of Lobbying, Despite Mayoral Pushback

Mayor and council president at impasse, council set to take more control.

Common Council Approves 2% Milwaukee Sales Tax

Common Council Approves 2% Milwaukee Sales Tax

But members blast policy provisions state is imposing. Mayor says vote was equal to one to create city in 1846.

Eyes on Milwaukee: E. North Ave. Apartments Moving Forward
Eyes on Milwaukee

E. North Ave. Apartments Moving Forward

Council committee endorses land sale, zoning change, TIF for long-sought development.

City Hall: Rusty Bolts Will Cost City $50,000
City Hall

Rusty Bolts Will Cost City $50,000

Plus: City settles lawsuit with McDonald's franchisee and reduces Hal Leonard's property taxes.

Joint Statement on SCOTUS college admissions ruling
Press Release

Joint Statement on SCOTUS college admissions ruling

From all members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Milele A. Coggs, Andrea M. Pratt, Mark Chambers, Jr., Jonathan Brostoff, Robert J. Bauman, Lamont Westmoreland, Khalif J. Rainey, JoCasta Zamarripa, Larresa Taylor, Michael J. Murphy, Mark A. Borkowski, José G. Pérez, Scott Spiker, Marina Dimitrijevic, and Russell W. Stamper, II

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 employees asked for ideas to generate new revenue
Press Release

City employees asked for ideas to generate new revenue

Statement from members of the Common Council: Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Andrea M. Pratt, Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr., Alderman Lamont Westmoreland, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman Larresa Taylor, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Jonathan Brostoff, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa

Murphy’s Law: Don Smiley’s Latest Paycheck Was $991,154
Murphy’s Law

Don Smiley’s Latest Paycheck Was $991,154

Summerfest boss has collected $6.56 million in five years for running tax exempt charity.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Could Regulate Airbnb, Other Services
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Could Regulate Airbnb, Other Services

Short-term rentals have proliferated beyond Downtown, but no public database of who is participating exists.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Milwaukee Will Ban Most New Vape Shops
Eyes on Milwaukee

Milwaukee Will Ban Most New Vape Shops

City zoning code change aims to deter teens from using tobacco.

Milwaukee Has Very Ambitious Climate and Jobs Plan

Milwaukee Has Very Ambitious Climate and Jobs Plan

Alderwoman Dimitrijevic and ECO director Erick Shambarger seek to transform the city.

City Hall: Municipal Court Cancels Alternatives Contract, Sparks Controversy
City Hall

Municipal Court Cancels Alternatives Contract, Sparks Controversy

Opponents say the change could hurt vulnerable defendants, increase incarceration.

City Hall: Police Settlement Will Cost Millions Less Than Expected
City Hall

Police Settlement Will Cost Millions Less Than Expected

Plus: costs grow in claim against Tearman Spencer and a firefighter conspiracy defense.

Assessment Error Costs Milwaukee $750,000

Assessment Error Costs Milwaukee $750,000

AT&T building was given improper tax bill after 2021 sale. Whoops.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Potato-Focused Restaurant Planned For Historic Schlitz Tavern
Eyes on Milwaukee

Potato-Focused Restaurant Planned For Historic Schlitz Tavern

Potato Heads will open at 27th and Lisbon.

Eyes on Milwaukee: 25-Story Tower Wins Crucial Endorsement
Eyes on Milwaukee

25-Story Tower Wins Crucial Endorsement

High-end, 318-unit apartment complex would replace parking lot on N. Farwell Ave.

MPD Joins the Hope Kit Initiative
City Hall: MPD Can Tow New Group of Repeat Reckless Drivers
City Hall

MPD Can Tow New Group of Repeat Reckless Drivers

City enacting its part of state law change. But how big of a loophole does the policy have?

Eyes on Milwaukee: Construction Starts on Century City Park Expansion
Eyes on Milwaukee

Construction Starts on Century City Park Expansion

Revamped Melvina Park at 29th and Melvina will nearly quadruple in size.

Eyes on Milwaukee: MATC Will Use Vacant Lot For Training Program
Eyes on Milwaukee

MATC Will Use Vacant Lot For Training Program

Partnership with city and We Energies will help train electrical line mechanics.

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.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Work Starts on Redeveloping 150 Vacant Homes
Eyes on Milwaukee

Work Starts on Redeveloping 150 Vacant Homes

Homes MKE aims to create new homeowners, improve neighborhoods.

Murphy’s Law: Did Brooks Exceed His Authority At Wisconsin Center?
Murphy’s Law

Did Brooks Exceed His Authority At Wisconsin Center?

CEO’s decision to remove art works raises questions about governance of public entity.

City Hall: Milwaukee Could Ban TikTok
City Hall

Milwaukee Could Ban TikTok

Security-driven decision could end free advertising medium for public library and other uses by city.

Revised Letter to Wisconsin Center District CEO Marty Brooks
Transportation: West Side Freeway-to-Boulevard Study Advances
Transportation

West Side Freeway-to-Boulevard Study Advances

City has first-of-its-kind formal role in study of 1.5-mile Highway 175.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Strongly Supports Northwestern Mutual Deal
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Strongly Supports Northwestern Mutual Deal

City would provide $30 million subsidy for $500 million tower redevelopment.

Ruby’s Bagels Moving To Oklahoma Ave.

Ruby’s Bagels Moving To Oklahoma Ave.

Owner buying vacant building on 11th and Oklahoma in the 'Crisol Corridor.'

City Hall: Milwaukee Sales Tax Expected As Separate Legislation, Outside of Budget
City Hall

Milwaukee Sales Tax Expected As Separate Legislation, Outside of Budget

Republicans expected to strip Gov. Evers' proposal from budget, but might not kill proposal.

Milwaukee Gets $2.5 Million In JUUL Settlement

Milwaukee Gets $2.5 Million In JUUL Settlement

E-cigarette maker was sued more than 5,000 times for its youth-focused marketing.

Common Council approves settlement in youth e-cigarette lawsuit
Wisconsin Supreme Court ‘dark store’ decision a huge win for state’s taxpayers, municipalities
Press Release

Wisconsin Supreme Court ‘dark store’ decision a huge win for state’s taxpayers, municipalities

Statement from Milwaukee Common Council Members Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, and Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr.

City Hall: Court Strikes Down City’s Towing Policy
City Hall

Court Strikes Down City’s Towing Policy

No more public filing of towing costs required of companies. But ruling allows drop fees.

City Hall: Another Former Assistant City Attorney Files Discrimination Claim
City Hall

Another Former Assistant City Attorney Files Discrimination Claim

Four former employees of City Attorney Tearman Spencer pursuing legal action against city.

Area residents invited to join Coffee with a Cop tomorrow
Local Officials Hope Lawsuit Settlement Funds Can Reduce Drug Overdoses

Local Officials Hope Lawsuit Settlement Funds Can Reduce Drug Overdoses

644 overdose deaths in county in 2021. 'We're finally getting some resources.'

City Hall: $175,000 Settlement For Violent 2018 Arrest
City Hall

$175,000 Settlement For Violent 2018 Arrest

Demetrious Lowe alleges police beat him after knocking him to the ground during mental health episode.

Council adopts file to bolster traffic calming installations
Eyes on Milwaukee: City Approves Funding For $37.2 Million Library Redevelopment
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Approves Funding For $37.2 Million Library Redevelopment

New MLK Library designed as community hub.

Joint Statement on Death of Milwaukee Police Officer
Press Release

Joint Statement on Death of Milwaukee Police Officer

From Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr., Alderman Jonathan Brostoff, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Eyes on Milwaukee: Northwestern Mutual To Create Second Glassy Tower With $500 Million Investment
Eyes on Milwaukee

Northwestern Mutual To Create Second Glassy Tower With $500 Million Investment

Company will completely overhaul existing building, create pedestrian street and relocate Franklin employees to Downtown.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Seeks To Limit New Vape Shops
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Seeks To Limit New Vape Shops

But questions abound on the legality and strategy of any bans or limits.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Master Electrician Will Redevelop Building at 58th and Burleigh
Eyes on Milwaukee

Master Electrician Will Redevelop Building at 58th and Burleigh

Baron Hentz and BKH Electric have big plans for vacant, city-owned building.

Can Milwaukee Circuit Court Clear Backlog By 2024?

Can Milwaukee Circuit Court Clear Backlog By 2024?

Chief judge expresses doubt, but progress is being made and hope remains.

City Hall: Bernadette Karanja Named Milwaukee’s Chief Equity Officer
City Hall

Bernadette Karanja Named Milwaukee’s Chief Equity Officer

Longtime city workforce leader is new CEO of improving racial and equity outcomes.

Eyes on Milwaukee: 25-Story Prospect Ave. Tower Headed For Approval
Eyes on Milwaukee

25-Story Prospect Ave. Tower Headed For Approval

No opposition to revised design. Groundbreaking, construction could start this year.

City Hall: City, County Will Study Merging Services
City Hall

City, County Will Study Merging Services

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos pushing for this as prerequisite for more shared revenue for Milwaukee.

Eyes on Milwaukee: New Youth Prison Wins Key Endorsement
Eyes on Milwaukee

New Youth Prison Wins Key Endorsement

Despite objections from neighbors, zoning committee supports new facility on northwest side.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Committee Overrules Historic Commission On Mitchell Street Project
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Committee Overrules Historic Commission On Mitchell Street Project

Will full council allow demolition of 1895 building for new affordable housing project?

Eyes on Milwaukee: I-94 Expansion Public Comment Deadline Extended
Eyes on Milwaukee

I-94 Expansion Public Comment Deadline Extended

State allowing public comment until Jan. 31. Opponents favor "Fix at Six" option.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Land Purchased For Downtown Brewery and Dog Park
Eyes on Milwaukee

Land Purchased For Downtown Brewery and Dog Park

Foxtown Brewery takes major step forward on Downtown project.

Help keep our community safe amid harsh winter weather
Press Release

Help keep our community safe amid harsh winter weather

Joint statement from: Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Jonathan Brostoff, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Common Council President José G. Pérez, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr. and Alderman Khalif J. Rainey 

Council approves 14 Housing Trust Fund projects
Press Release

Council approves 14 Housing Trust Fund projects

Grants totaling more than $10 million will create new homes, create jobs and help homeowners with needed repairs

Eyes on Milwaukee: Deal On Affordable Housing Adds Bay View, Edison School Projects
Eyes on Milwaukee

Deal On Affordable Housing Adds Bay View, Edison School Projects

Housing fund will back 14 projects, including Martin Luther King Library redevelopment.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Members, DCD and Citizens Panel At Odds Over Affordable Housing
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Members, DCD and Citizens Panel At Odds Over Affordable Housing

Confusion, disagreements over how to spend federal pandemic funds on housing projects.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Fiserv’s Move Downtown Is About Attracting ‘Young, Diverse’ Workers
Eyes on Milwaukee

Fiserv’s Move Downtown Is About Attracting ‘Young, Diverse’ Workers

Council committee endorses complicated subsidy for Brookfield company's relocation.

Plats and Parcels: City Creates Bronzeville Development Zone
Plats and Parcels

City Creates Bronzeville Development Zone

To spur development, limit chain businesses. Plus: a recap of week's real estate news.

Housing Trust Fund projects selected, will go to Council for review
Press Release

Housing Trust Fund projects selected, will go to Council for review

Housing Trust Fund grants totaling more than $8.8 million would create new homes, help the homeless, create jobs and help with homeowner repairs

Eyes on Milwaukee: City To Fund 12 Affordable Housing Projects
Eyes on Milwaukee

City To Fund 12 Affordable Housing Projects

Using federal funds for everything from new apartments to blocking predatory landlords.

City Hall: Perez Gives New Committee Assignments
City Hall

Perez Gives New Committee Assignments

Newly-elected alders get their first assignments. But others still doing double duty.

City Hall: Council Overrides Mayor Johnson’s First Vetoes
City Hall

Council Overrides Mayor Johnson’s First Vetoes

Actions finalize 2023 budget with no cuts to libraries or fire department.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Committee Okays Carleton School Project
Eyes on Milwaukee

Committee Okays Carleton School Project

Despite complaints from neighbors, $18 million conversion of long-vacant school into 30 apartments approved.

City Hall: Former City Attorneys File Discrimination Claims
City Hall

Former City Attorneys File Discrimination Claims

City will spend up $40,000 for outside counsel and could face future settlements.

Youth Correctional Facility Faces Obstacles

Youth Correctional Facility Faces Obstacles

May be years before $42 million, northwest-side facility gets built, state Sen. Taylor says

Eight-lane I-94 East-West project proposal not in the best interest of area residents
Press Release

Eight-lane I-94 East-West project proposal not in the best interest of area residents

Joint statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Robert J. Bauman

Mayor Vetoes Library, Fire Service Cut Restorations in 2023 Milwaukee Budget

Mayor Vetoes Library, Fire Service Cut Restorations in 2023 Milwaukee Budget

In making first veto, Johnson offers compromise to Common Council.

Mayor’s Office Adds ‘Vision Zero’ Czar

Mayor’s Office Adds ‘Vision Zero’ Czar

Newly-created position will coordinate citywide effort to eliminate traffic deaths.

Alderman Murphy sponsors budget amendments aimed at combatting reckless driving, boosting city parks
Council Reverses Cuts, Raises Fees In Adopting 2023 Milwaukee Budget

Council Reverses Cuts, Raises Fees In Adopting 2023 Milwaukee Budget

But police will still see service reduction and drastic cuts will come in future years without changes at state level.

City Hall: Discrimination Lawsuit Will Cost City $400,000
City Hall

Discrimination Lawsuit Will Cost City $400,000

Council grumbles but okays settlement. 'A very bitter pill to swallow,' says Ald. Murphy.

2022 City Christmas Tree hails from the 10th District
Press Release

2022 City Christmas Tree hails from the 10th District

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy November 1, 2022

City Hall: Mayor, Council At Odds Over How To Prepare For Fiscal Cliff
City Hall

Mayor, Council At Odds Over How To Prepare For Fiscal Cliff

But there is unanimous agreement that city faces a looming crisis.

City Hall: Milwaukee Spending $1.5 Million On Lawsuits, Including Two Police Conduct Cases
City Hall

Milwaukee Spending $1.5 Million On Lawsuits, Including Two Police Conduct Cases

And another $1.5 million in settlements is pending.

City Hall: Library Poised To Cut Services At 5 Branches In 2023
City Hall

Library Poised To Cut Services At 5 Branches In 2023

Council debates what libraries and if service could be restored.

Senseless gun violence ends a much-loved 12-year-old’s journey before it truly gets started
Press Release

Senseless gun violence ends a much-loved 12-year-old’s journey before it truly gets started

Joint statement from all members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Transportation: 2023 Milwaukee Budget Includes $500,000 Protected Bike Lane Fund
Transportation

2023 Milwaukee Budget Includes $500,000 Protected Bike Lane Fund

But will council approve it?

City Hall: What Two Fire Stations Will Milwaukee Fire Department Cut?
City Hall

What Two Fire Stations Will Milwaukee Fire Department Cut?

Or will an influx of Medicaid money stave off cut?

Eyes on Milwaukee: Business Incubator Planned for 52nd and Center
Eyes on Milwaukee

Business Incubator Planned for 52nd and Center

Entrepreneur-contractor-nurse would breathe new life into vacant building.

City Hall: Treasurer Coggs Rejects Budget Cuts
City Hall

Treasurer Coggs Rejects Budget Cuts

Mayor's proposed budget eliminates temporary workers, could begin eliminating practice of paying taxes in person.

City Hall: Milwaukee’s Credit Rating Cut
City Hall

Milwaukee’s Credit Rating Cut

All three rating agencies have a negative outlook on cash-strapped city.

City Hall: Juneteenth Now An Official City Holiday
City Hall

Juneteenth Now An Official City Holiday

Ald. Milele Coggs leads the charge for full city recognition after 2014 'halfway measure'.

Council votes to make Juneteenth an official city holiday
Resolution authorizes city opposition to potential We Energies rate increases
Eyes on Milwaukee: City Building New Street in Third Ward
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Building New Street in Third Ward

New apartment building triggers long-desired extension of Corcoran Ave.

Committee approves file advancing Homes MKE Program
City Hall: Milwaukee Gets $18 Million Opioid Settlement
City Hall

Milwaukee Gets $18 Million Opioid Settlement

But overdoses, deaths and need for treatment continue to increase.

Why Was Key City Leader Fired?

Why Was Key City Leader Fired?

Some in community question ousting of Office of Violence Prevention director Arnitta Holliman.

Eyes on Milwaukee: IKON Hotel Deal At Risk of Default
Eyes on Milwaukee

IKON Hotel Deal At Risk of Default

Haywood Group could default on $4 million city loan. City could end up owning empty mall.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Zoning Changes Could Grow City Population
Eyes on Milwaukee

Zoning Changes Could Grow City Population

City looks to update zoning code, in line with Mayor Johnson's vision for growth.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Seeking Affordable Housing Developers Who Need Funding
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Seeking Affordable Housing Developers Who Need Funding

Housing Trust Fund has $10 million to award to worthy projects.

Housing Trust Fund now accepting applications for new round of grant funding
Can New Naloxone Medication Reduce Overdose Deaths?

Can New Naloxone Medication Reduce Overdose Deaths?

Increased potency of fentanyl, other opioids driving death rate in Milwaukee.

City Hall: Mayor Johnson’s New HR Director Gets Committee Endorsement
City Hall

Mayor Johnson’s New HR Director Gets Committee Endorsement

Harper Donahue would move from the City of Madison to Milwaukee.

North Shore Bank Names Michael Murphy as New Vice President of Consumer Lending
Transportation: Milwaukee Planning To Eliminate Traffic Crash Deaths
Transportation

Milwaukee Planning To Eliminate Traffic Crash Deaths

City, led by Mayor Cavalier Johnson, adopts "Vision Zero" policy

City Hall: ARPA Funds Can’t Plug City Budget Hole
City Hall

ARPA Funds Can’t Plug City Budget Hole

Deficit keeps growing and even devoting every ARPA dollar to it won't solve problem.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Can Menomonee Valley Project Attract Tenants?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Can Menomonee Valley Project Attract Tenants?

Style of industrial development common in suburbs draws questions at City Hall.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Clifton Crump Named To Zoning Board
Eyes on Milwaukee

Clifton Crump Named To Zoning Board

Former secretary of city's Board of Zoning Appeals returns to serve on board, to acclaim from council members.

Drug Overdose Deaths Still Plague County

Drug Overdose Deaths Still Plague County

Fentanyl driving 5-year rise in Milwaukee, though cocaine also a factor.

City Hall: 27-Page Complaint Blasts City Attorney
City Hall

27-Page Complaint Blasts City Attorney

Tearman Spencer and top deputies face new complaints of misusing public funds, kickbacks and more.

City Hall: Mayor Signs RNC Agreement To Applause
City Hall

Mayor Signs RNC Agreement To Applause

But two big questions remain: will city win convention and will it benefit financially?

RNC framework contract is a win-win for the City of Milwaukee
Press Release

RNC framework contract is a win-win for the City of Milwaukee

Joint statement from Common Council Members: Common Council President/Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, and Alderman Scott Spiker June 1, 2022

City Hall: Council Approves RNC Deal, Drops $6 Million Request
City Hall

Council Approves RNC Deal, Drops $6 Million Request

Move praised by mayor, convention backers.

City Hall: Should Select City Employees Be Paid More Than Mayor?
City Hall

Should Select City Employees Be Paid More Than Mayor?

Alderwoman Coggs warns it could primarily benefit white men.

Council Members Asking RNC For $6 Million

Council Members Asking RNC For $6 Million

Milwaukee can't otherwise benefit from convention because of lack of sales or hotel tax.

Statement on mass shooting at school in Uvalde, Texas
Press Release

Statement on mass shooting at school in Uvalde, Texas

By all Members of the Common Council: Common Council President/Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Robert Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey,  Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

City Hall: Special Election Called For Kovac’s Seat
City Hall

Special Election Called For Kovac’s Seat

Veteran alderman is now the city budget director. Primary would be on August 9

City Hall: Committee Backs Kovac For Budget Director
City Hall

Committee Backs Kovac For Budget Director

A unanimous vote for alderman, whose resignation is expected to occur May 9.

City Hall: City Faces $9.5 Million In Legal Claims
City Hall

City Faces $9.5 Million In Legal Claims

Allegations of coerced confession, wrongful termination and underpayment of wages.

City Hall: No New Jackpot Tax at Potawatomi
City Hall

No New Jackpot Tax at Potawatomi

Borkowski pulls his proposal after meeting with casino CEO. But he already has a new more modest plan.

Transportation: Bublr Rolling Out Hundreds of E-Bikes, 26 New Stations
Transportation

Bublr Rolling Out Hundreds of E-Bikes, 26 New Stations

New e-bikes are "awesome" and "extremely fun" says Mayor Johnson.

City Hall: Perez Shakes Up Committee Assignments
City Hall

Perez Shakes Up Committee Assignments

Musical chairs game has new leaders at the helm of city's most powerful committees.

Police chase and horrific crash results in probation for reckless driver
Press Release

Police chase and horrific crash results in probation for reckless driver

Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy April 28, 2022

Statement on the election of Alderman José Pérez as Common Council President
Press Release

Statement on the election of Alderman José Pérez as Common Council President

By Common Council members: Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II April 19, 2022

City Hall: City Braces For More Lawsuit Settlements
City Hall

City Braces For More Lawsuit Settlements

Unusual number of claims by this early in the year. City may transfer $850,00 into settlements account.

City Hall: Federal Grant Could Help Stave Off 1,300 Layoffs
City Hall

Federal Grant Could Help Stave Off 1,300 Layoffs

But only for a couple years. Milwaukee still needs state help.

City Hall: DNS Could Drop City Attorney, Hire Its Own
City Hall

DNS Could Drop City Attorney, Hire Its Own

Council debates, then holds off proposal to help Department of Neighborhood Services.

City Hall: Should Milwaukee Add Jackpot Tax?
City Hall

Should Milwaukee Add Jackpot Tax?

Ald. Borkowski pushes 1% tax of all jackpots of at least $1,200 won at Potawatomi casino.

City Hall: New Assessments Hike Residential Values By 17.7%
City Hall

New Assessments Hike Residential Values By 17.7%

Property values surging across the entire city, but won't necessary mean a tax increase.

Meet Milwaukee’s New Mayor Cavalier Johnson

Meet Milwaukee’s New Mayor Cavalier Johnson

Johnson, first elected Black mayor in Milwaukee history, promises to focus on crime, jobs, neighborhoods and relationship with state.

Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan sets Milwaukee up for success
HOPE Kits aim to provide lifesaving tools for the community
City Hall: City Attorney Halts Plan To Sue Reckless Drivers
City Hall

City Attorney Halts Plan To Sue Reckless Drivers

Spencer submits last minute opinion saying the proposal is too broad.

City Hall: Workers Seeking Raises Find Open Ears, Empty Pockets
City Hall

Workers Seeking Raises Find Open Ears, Empty Pockets

Pension cliff and stagnant wages are pushing city toward a 'tipping point.'

City Hall: Johnson, Donovan Spar Over City’s Future
City Hall

Johnson, Donovan Spar Over City’s Future

Candidates for mayor differ on streetcar, partisan politics and who favors defunding police.

City Hall: MPD Moving To Seize Vehicles Via Court System
City Hall

MPD Moving To Seize Vehicles Via Court System

Policy would apply to repeat offenders that don't change their driving behavior.

City Hall: Foreclosure Fiasco Costing Taxpayers Nearly $200,000
City Hall

Foreclosure Fiasco Costing Taxpayers Nearly $200,000

City Wide Investments had $49,000 in unpaid taxes before the city stepped in and a lawsuit started.

City Hall: City Boosts 911 Operator Pay By 26%
City Hall

City Boosts 911 Operator Pay By 26%

Milwaukee dealing with staffing shortage as call volume grows, system overhaul looms.

Statement on the passing of Dr. Lester Carter
Press Release

Statement on the passing of Dr. Lester Carter

Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II.

Should City Fund Part of New County Juvenile Justice Facility?

Should City Fund Part of New County Juvenile Justice Facility?

Committee debates options for the complex challenges of juvenile justice in Milwaukee.

City Hall: Anti-Harassment Policy Expanded After City Attorney Case
City Hall

Anti-Harassment Policy Expanded After City Attorney Case

Effort took more than a year, from investigation to enactment.

Common Council Adopts Resolution Amending City’s Anti-Harassment Policy
Press Release

Common Council Adopts Resolution Amending City’s Anti-Harassment Policy

On Tuesday the Common Council adopted a resolution directing the Department of Employee Relations to update the City’s anti-harassment policy

Murphy’s Law: Summerfest CEO Collects $2.49 Million
Murphy’s Law

Summerfest CEO Collects $2.49 Million

Don Smiley gets total compensation of 1.19 million in 2019 and $1.29 million in 2020.

City Moving Toward Cash Vaccination Incentives, Free Rapid Tests

City Moving Toward Cash Vaccination Incentives, Free Rapid Tests

But first the city must figure out how it can purchase the tests.

City Hall: Milwaukee Starts Over On Redistricting, Only To Adopt Same Map Again
City Hall

Milwaukee Starts Over On Redistricting, Only To Adopt Same Map Again

Effort to expand Latino influence won't stand up to legal challenges says City Attorney. Alderwoman says council "hoodwinked" and "railroaded."

City Could Sue Reckless Drivers in Civil Court

City Could Sue Reckless Drivers in Civil Court

Could allow seizure of repeat offenders' cars. But is City Attorney trying to delay civil suits?

Oil Spill’s Spread Could Have Been Halted?

Oil Spill’s Spread Could Have Been Halted?

Komatsu criticized for not calling local officials to prevent spread of 400 gallons of oil.

Thank you, Governor Tony Evers
Press Release

Thank you, Governor Tony Evers

Statement from members of the Common Council: Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Nik Kovac, and Alderman Mark A. Borkowski

Plats and Parcels: Johnson Controls’ Departure Impacts Third Ward
Plats and Parcels

Johnson Controls’ Departure Impacts Third Ward

The story goes all the way back to 1993. Plus: A recap of the week's real estate news

City Hall: Does City Need Third Drop-Off Center for Waste?
City Hall

Does City Need Third Drop-Off Center for Waste?

DPW says it would provide efficiencies, but one alderman balks at the cost.

City, County Struggle for Solutions to Overdose Deaths

City, County Struggle for Solutions to Overdose Deaths

South-side ZIP code hardest hit. A push for legislation to legalize test strips.

Council Suspends Downtown’s ELMNT Lounge For 60 Days

Council Suspends Downtown’s ELMNT Lounge For 60 Days

Action taken after police and others argue over how a homicide near bar was handled.

Council adopts ordinance lowering recovery rate for assessable traffic calming improvements
City Hall: Predator Cop Costs Milwaukee $400,000
City Hall

Predator Cop Costs Milwaukee $400,000

Officer ultimately spent four years in jail after using his job to prey on teenage girls.

City Hall: Pastors Demand “Tax and Take” Moratorium
City Hall

Pastors Demand “Tax and Take” Moratorium

City officials say it's not possible, as discussion of how to handle churches gets confusing.

City Hall: General City Workers Will Get 2% Raise
City Hall

General City Workers Will Get 2% Raise

First raise for non-resident workers since 2008.

Transportation: City Could Make Speed Humps Cheaper
Transportation

City Could Make Speed Humps Cheaper

Committee approves slashing cost for property owners by 69% to combat reckless driving.

City Hall: Half of Milwaukee’s Car Thefts By Children
City Hall

Half of Milwaukee’s Car Thefts By Children

The 'Kia Boyz' have helped drive 'astronomical' 58% increase in city's car thefts, nearly half by kids 16 and under.

City Hall: Council Okays ‘Warp Speed’ Redistricting
City Hall

Council Okays ‘Warp Speed’ Redistricting

City officials forced to work quickly, with one council member objecting to new plan.

City Hall: The Council’s War With Tearman Spencer
City Hall

The Council’s War With Tearman Spencer

Lots of grumbling, but City Attorney scores wins in two of three battles Tuesday.

City Hall: Committee Backs City Redistricting Plan
City Hall

Committee Backs City Redistricting Plan

But what about a third Latino majority district?

City Hall: Milwaukee Releases Draft Plan For New Council Districts
City Hall

Milwaukee Releases Draft Plan For New Council Districts

Every aldermanic district would change under proposed plan.

State bill would erase city’s move to decriminalize marijuana possession, increase minimum penalty to $100
Press Release

State bill would erase city’s move to decriminalize marijuana possession, increase minimum penalty to $100

Statement from members of the Common Council: Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

City Hall: Milwaukee Adopts New Ward Map For City
City Hall

Milwaukee Adopts New Ward Map For City

New districts coming next week. Riverwest further split between two council districts.

City Hall: Council Blasts Extra Cost For Morales’ Lawsuit
City Hall

Council Blasts Extra Cost For Morales’ Lawsuit

City Attorney Spencer knew outside counsel handling case exceeded authorized cost.

City Hall: Milwaukee Adopts ‘Calm Before The Storm’ 2022 Budget
City Hall

Milwaukee Adopts ‘Calm Before The Storm’ 2022 Budget

No fee increases and small tax increase as city bolsters pension reserve fund in anticipation of fiscal cliff.

Common Council adopts amended 2022 City budget
City Hall: Tearman Spencer Adds Media To List Of Those Inhibiting Him
City Hall

Tearman Spencer Adds Media To List Of Those Inhibiting Him

Conditions at City Attorney's office would improve if media quit "erroneously" reporting on them says City Attorney.

City Hall: Committee Recommends Few Budget Amendments
City Hall

Committee Recommends Few Budget Amendments

No fee increases and few changes as council braces for next year's fiscal cliff.

Finance and Personnel Committee amends, recommends approval of 2022 budget
Housing Authority employee target of attempted carjacking
Press Release

Housing Authority employee target of attempted carjacking

Statement from members of the Common Council: Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W Stamper, II

City Hall: City Faces Shortage of Garbage Truck, Snowplow Drivers
City Hall

City Faces Shortage of Garbage Truck, Snowplow Drivers

Milwaukee raising starting pay by $5,400.

City Hall: Police Department Tweets Lied To Public
City Hall

Police Department Tweets Lied To Public

Comptroller audit finds 2020 tweets misled public. Acting Chief Norman calls them "unacceptable."

City Hall: Council Adopts $179 Million Rescue Plan Package
City Hall

Council Adopts $179 Million Rescue Plan Package

Compromise plan includes money for pension reserve, housing, lead abatement and child care providers.

City Hall: Council Strikes Deal On How To Spend $179 Million ARPA Allocation
City Hall

Council Strikes Deal On How To Spend $179 Million ARPA Allocation

Housing, lead abatement, child care, police recruits, violence prevention, a new MLK library and more.

Committee recommends approval of ARPA omnibus proposal
Press Release

Committee recommends approval of ARPA omnibus proposal

Includes funding for public safety and crime prevention, housing, lead abatement, continued COVID response and more

City Hall: Common Council Has 7 Times The Ideas As It Has Funding
City Hall

Common Council Has 7 Times The Ideas As It Has Funding

82 ideas for how to spend $394.2 million federal grant. What will council choose?

Council submitted ARPA proposals now public
Press Release

Council submitted ARPA proposals now public

Will be discussed at Finance and Personnel Committee meeting Friday

City Hall: Homicides, Shootings, Auto Thefts All At Record Highs
City Hall

Homicides, Shootings, Auto Thefts All At Record Highs

MPD Acting Chief Jeffrey Norman presents vision of community-centered approach to solving issues.

Our court systems need additional resources to help address violent crime
Press Release

Our court systems need additional resources to help address violent crime

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy October 7, 2021

City Hall: 12 Options to Solve Milwaukee’s Fiscal Crisis
City Hall

12 Options to Solve Milwaukee’s Fiscal Crisis

Nine are bad says alderman. Without solution Milwaukee would need to cut one-fourth of workforce.

City Hall: 2022 Assessment Process Could Be Chaotic
City Hall

2022 Assessment Process Could Be Chaotic

Top staffers departing, number of 2020 appeals still pending, hot real estate market, no assessments in 2021.

City Hall: Latest City Attorney Controversy Causes Council Infighting
City Hall

Latest City Attorney Controversy Causes Council Infighting

Dodd vs Zamarripa is an extension of Tearman Spencer vs City Hall

Council approves major ARPA-funded pedestrian safety/anti-reckless driving measure
City Hall: Turmoil, Toxic Work Environment at City Attorney’s Office
City Hall

Turmoil, Toxic Work Environment at City Attorney’s Office

Resignation forms cite ethical violations, poor treatment of women & more by Tearman Spencer.

City Hall: Committee OK’s ARPA Funding for Ambulances, Reckless Driving and Eviction Prevention
City Hall

Committee OK’s ARPA Funding for Ambulances, Reckless Driving and Eviction Prevention

Finance & Personnel Committee recommends spending $14 million of city's $394 million ARPA allocation.

City Hall: City Could Lose 40% of ARPA Funds to Revenue Recovery
City Hall

City Could Lose 40% of ARPA Funds to Revenue Recovery

Funds would go towards plugging revenue shortfalls, not generational investments.

City Hall: Council Delays Action On ARPA Funds
City Hall

Council Delays Action On ARPA Funds

City has $193 million in the bank. But how to spend it still being debated.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Leaders Celebrate New Mental Health Center
Eyes on Milwaukee

Leaders Celebrate New Mental Health Center

Huge gathering of officials for project lauded as momentous, exciting and historic.

What’s It Worth: Harley-Davidson Founder’s Home For Sale
What’s It Worth

Harley-Davidson Founder’s Home For Sale

Washington Heights home of William S. Harley on market for first time in 45 years

Murphy’s Law: Mayor’s Race Looks Like a Wild One
Murphy’s Law

Mayor’s Race Looks Like a Wild One

Wide open, with lots of candidates, no obvious favorites and so much at stake.

Congratulations Colectivo workers
Press Release

Congratulations Colectivo workers

Joint statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman José G. Pérez and Alderman Scott Spiker

City Hall: Council Holds ARPA Spending Until September
City Hall

Council Holds ARPA Spending Until September

Mayor's $93 million "summer plan" delayed, along with proposals by alders.

City Hall: Council Approves Morales Settlement
City Hall

Council Approves Morales Settlement

Former chief will get $500,000 and now a finalist for job in Dane County suburb.

Two-Thirds of All Milwaukee Auto Thefts Are Kia and Hyundai Vehicles

Two-Thirds of All Milwaukee Auto Thefts Are Kia and Hyundai Vehicles

Milwaukee on track for record breaking year, having already eclipsed all of 2020.

City Hall: Morales Payout Rises Still Higher
City Hall

Morales Payout Rises Still Higher

City must also pay its private legal team. Total cost of lawsuit will exceed $668,000.

City Hall: New Ordinance Could Remove Elected Officials
City Hall

New Ordinance Could Remove Elected Officials

For undefined 'inefficiency' or 'neglect of duty.' Alders slam the proposal.

City Hall: Summerfest, City Strike Deal On Police Costs
City Hall

Summerfest, City Strike Deal On Police Costs

Costs had climbed to more than $800,000 annually for MPD, but festival paid for little of it.

Reckless driving behavior continues to be a detriment to our community
Press Release

Reckless driving behavior continues to be a detriment to our community

Joint statement from members of the Common Council – Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Mark Borkowski and Alderman José G. Pérez

City Hall: Police Again Enforcing Expired Plates
City Hall

Police Again Enforcing Expired Plates

Fair warning to drivers, who haven't had to renew license plates since COVID-19 health order issued.

City Hall: City Could Spend $100,000 To Argue Over $100,000
City Hall

City Could Spend $100,000 To Argue Over $100,000

Fight between City Attorney Tearman Spencer and Common Council getting worse.

Let your voice be heard (and help shape history) by taking the survey!
Press Release

Let your voice be heard (and help shape history) by taking the survey!

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Cavalier Johnson

With state of emergency winding down, enforcement of expired vehicle registrations must ramp up
Press Release

With state of emergency winding down, enforcement of expired vehicle registrations must ramp up

Joint statement from Common Council President Cavalier Johnson and Alderman Michael J. Murphy

City Hall: Council Approves Federal Drug Trafficking Grants
City Hall

Council Approves Federal Drug Trafficking Grants

Activist asks what success fighting War on Drugs looks like? MPD lists arrests, seizures.

Council approves George Floyd Justice in Policing Act file
Congratulations Chief Lipski!
Press Release

Congratulations Chief Lipski!

Joint Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic

Black Drug Overdose Death Rate Spikes

Black Drug Overdose Death Rate Spikes

Deaths in county up in 2021, but up the most for African Americans.

Committee sets public hearing for next week on ARPA funding preferences
Press Release

Committee sets public hearing for next week on ARPA funding preferences

Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Cavalier Johnson

City Hall: Stimulus Funds Won’t Cancel Streetlighting Fee
City Hall

Stimulus Funds Won’t Cancel Streetlighting Fee

Sorry taxpayers, money from fee can't be replaced by pandemic aid, federal rules say.

It’s time to re-open City Hall
Press Release

It’s time to re-open City Hall

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy May 10, 2021

The Passing of Pastor Jerome Smith
Press Release

The Passing of Pastor Jerome Smith

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy May 5, 2021

Council approves transparency file for receipt and distribution of ARPA funds
Tearman Spencer Vs. City Hall

Tearman Spencer Vs. City Hall

New City Attorney is quite public with his frustrations with those he is tasked with representing.

City Hall: Pension Costs Will Cause Huge Worker Layoffs
City Hall

Pension Costs Will Cause Huge Worker Layoffs

One-sixth of city workforce projected for cuts by 2026, with added cuts in future years.

Overdoses Surge and Heroin, Opioid Cocaine Task Force Doesn’t Meet

Overdoses Surge and Heroin, Opioid Cocaine Task Force Doesn’t Meet

Task force was created to develop policy recommendations for overdose crisis.

City Hall: City Must Decide How To Spend $405 Million
City Hall

City Must Decide How To Spend $405 Million

Latest federal COVID-19 stimulus plan creates pleasant challenge for mayor, council.

City Hall: Spencer’s Conduct Could Spur New City Harassment Law
City Hall

Spencer’s Conduct Could Spur New City Harassment Law

Six employees accuse City Attorney but report finds city law doesn't cover elected officials.

City’s anti-harassment policy should be applicable to ALL employees
Committee discusses trio of files aimed at transparency, inclusion for ARPA funding
City Hall: Milwaukee Could Suspend Street Lighting Fee
City Hall

Milwaukee Could Suspend Street Lighting Fee

But property owners will need to pay at least once.

City Hall: New Police Grant Approved With Little Scrutiny
City Hall

New Police Grant Approved With Little Scrutiny

Latest grant got two minutes of discussion, not months of meetings.

City Hall: City Rejects Hawley Rd. Flood Settlement
City Hall

City Rejects Hawley Rd. Flood Settlement

Residents left soaked with costs after settlement agreement falls apart. Their attorney thinks it might cost even more to sue.

Return to in-person learning is needed for local youth
Press Release

Return to in-person learning is needed for local youth

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy March 22, 2021

Op Ed: Evers Is Wrong on I-94 Expansion
Op Ed

Evers Is Wrong on I-94 Expansion

The proposal doesn't learn from history and contradicts the approach of Biden, Buttigieg.

Finance and Personnel Committee to discuss receipt and distribution of federal relief funds
Collaborative, community focused approach needed for stimulus fund allocation
Press Release

Collaborative, community focused approach needed for stimulus fund allocation

Joint statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

City Hall: Another Council Committee Opposes Wilson
City Hall

Another Council Committee Opposes Wilson

Majority of council opposes Ann Wilson's reappointment to Fire & Police Commission.

Common Council honors Dr. Joan Prince for decades of service to Milwaukee
Press Release

Common Council honors Dr. Joan Prince for decades of service to Milwaukee

Joint statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Pushes Century City to Make USPS Trucks
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Pushes Century City to Make USPS Trucks

Council members and mayor urge Oshkosh Corporation to consider Milwaukee location.

City Hall: FPC Members, City Attorney Blew Off Inspector General Interview Requests
City Hall

FPC Members, City Attorney Blew Off Inspector General Interview Requests

Fallout and confusion from the Morales fiasco gets worse.

Sales Tax Proposal Would Increase Revenue Diversification, Support Local Communities
Press Release

Sales Tax Proposal Would Increase Revenue Diversification, Support Local Communities

Joint statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Jose G. Perez, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II and Alderman Nik Kovac

Transportation: Council Disagrees on I-94 Expansion
Transportation

Council Disagrees on I-94 Expansion

Council once opposed it, but now wavering. Bauman blames disinformation by unions and WisDOT.

Council members to join ministers, legal experts and renters to urge funding remedy amid COVID housing crisis
Transportation: City Pushing Back On Interstate 94 Expansion, Not Reconstruction
Transportation

City Pushing Back On Interstate 94 Expansion, Not Reconstruction

City poised to lobby feds to slow down WisDOT.

Continuing King Drive is continuing the work of Dr. King
Press Release

Continuing King Drive is continuing the work of Dr. King

Statement of Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs January 22, 2021

On the passing of Henry “Hank” Aaron
Press Release

On the passing of Henry “Hank” Aaron

From all members of the Common Council -- Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

City Hall: What Can City Do About Pension Crisis?
City Hall

What Can City Do About Pension Crisis?

Milwaukee must find at least $90 million annually starting in 2023. All options are on the table.

Joint Statement on the Passing of Ms. Maria Monreal-Cameron
Press Release

Joint Statement on the Passing of Ms. Maria Monreal-Cameron

From members of the Milwaukee Common Council: Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

City Hall: Council Overrides Mayoral Veto, Wants Power To Fire Police Chief
City Hall

Council Overrides Mayoral Veto, Wants Power To Fire Police Chief

Council wants Legislature to give it firing power. Mayor's veto of this fails.

City Hall: Council Confirms Avalos, Adds Tie-Breaking Vote to Fire & Police Commission
City Hall

Council Confirms Avalos, Adds Tie-Breaking Vote to Fire & Police Commission

But a potential issue awaits with looming rejection of Ann Wilson's reappointment.

City Hall: Council Okays Federal COPS Grant, But…
City Hall

Council Okays Federal COPS Grant, But…

Police department agrees to certain conditions for grant intended to reform operations.

City Hall: Municipal Court Firing Debt Collector
City Hall

Municipal Court Firing Debt Collector

Duncan Solutions being dropped less than a year after deal started.

City Hall: New City HR Director Impresses Alders
City Hall

New City HR Director Impresses Alders

Makda Fessahaye's appointment as employee relations director wins unanimous committee approval.

City Hall: City Moves to Ban Discrimination by Hairstyle
City Hall

City Moves to Ban Discrimination by Hairstyle

Proposal makes hairstyles a protected class alongside sex, religion, race.

Transportation: Milwaukee Seeks Data for Vision Zero Push
Transportation

Milwaukee Seeks Data for Vision Zero Push

Consultant would identify dangerous interactions, develop predictive model.

Flames of insurrection and victimhood lead to siege of the People’s House
Press Release

Flames of insurrection and victimhood lead to siege of the People’s House

From Alderwoman Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman Nik Kovac and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Murphy’s Law: Why So Many Police Chiefs?
Murphy’s Law

Why So Many Police Chiefs?

Milwaukee's police leadership has become a surreal version of musical chairs. What’s going on?

Wise Appointment of Jeffrey Norman Gives the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners a Chance to Pause
Press Release

Wise Appointment of Jeffrey Norman Gives the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners a Chance to Pause

Statement of Alderman Ashanti Hamilton December 19, 2020

New acting chief will provide stability and leadership
Press Release

New acting chief will provide stability and leadership

Statement of Alderwoman Chantia Lewis December 19, 2020

Milwaukee’s Traffic Fatalities Surge in 2020

Milwaukee’s Traffic Fatalities Surge in 2020

Despite big decrease in traffic. Do emptier roads encourage reckless driving?

City Hall: Barrett Picks Makda Fessahaye for Human Resources Director
City Hall

Barrett Picks Makda Fessahaye for Human Resources Director

Attorney to replace longtime Employee Relations director Maria Monteagudo.

City Hall: Council Wants Control Over Police and Fire Chiefs
City Hall

Council Wants Control Over Police and Fire Chiefs

Seeking changes to state law to give city's elected officials control.

City Hall: Council Moves To Reject Federal COPS Grant
City Hall

Council Moves To Reject Federal COPS Grant

Means 30 fewer officers, leaving Milwaukee down by 150 officers in 2021.

City Hall: Avalos Confirmation On Hold Because of FPC Misstep
City Hall

Avalos Confirmation On Hold Because of FPC Misstep

Committee voted for her without necessary background check.

City Hall: Council Sets Conditions For COPS Grant
City Hall

Council Sets Conditions For COPS Grant

Committee proposes 7 conditions for police department in order for city to accept federal grant.

City Hall: Should Mayor Appoint Police and Fire Chiefs?
City Hall

Should Mayor Appoint Police and Fire Chiefs?

Council members think system is broken; many support change in state legislation.

Overdose Responders Struggle Against Rising Deaths

Overdose Responders Struggle Against Rising Deaths

Response team connects people to treatment after a non-fatal overdose.

City Hall: Troubles at Fire & Police Commission
City Hall

Troubles at Fire & Police Commission

12 staff vacancies, no director, three board vacancies. Committee grills Barrett aides for answers.

City Hall: $1.6 Billion Adopted Budget Raises Fees, Cuts Police
City Hall

$1.6 Billion Adopted Budget Raises Fees, Cuts Police

City's fiscal challenges continue to mount under state restrictions, rising costs.

Amended 2021 budget addresses key community issues including public health and safety, housing and more
Transportation: Budget Amendment Would Move Milwaukee Towards “Vision Zero”
Transportation

Budget Amendment Would Move Milwaukee Towards “Vision Zero”

Proposal start of an effort to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries.

City Hall: Committee Approves Over 20 Amendments To Milwaukee Budget
City Hall

Committee Approves Over 20 Amendments To Milwaukee Budget

Amendments target violence prevention, housing, lead abatement and more.

Committee recommends approval of omnibus budget amendment
Press Release

Committee recommends approval of omnibus budget amendment

Amendment provides funding for healthy food access, lead abatement, CART teams and Community Collaborative Commission, among other initiatives

City Hall: Almost Half of Budget Amendments Are Policy Footnotes
City Hall

Almost Half of Budget Amendments Are Policy Footnotes

Footnotes call for a racial equity audit, benches in vacant lots, lead-safe property database and much more.

SafeHomes initiative expands lead abatement efforts for a lead-free Milwaukee
MPD Survey Shows Police Perception Divided Along Racial, Economic Lines

MPD Survey Shows Police Perception Divided Along Racial, Economic Lines

Researcher says key takeaway is for MPD officers to exercise compassion in any interaction.

Public Safety & Health Committee to discuss Police Satisfaction Survey results
City Hall: City Could Lose 30 More Police Officers
City Hall

City Could Lose 30 More Police Officers

Federal grant rules could mean cutting 30 more than proposed cut of 120 cops.

Court Watch: Municipal Court Attendance Way Up
Court Watch

Municipal Court Attendance Way Up

Huge reduction in no shows in Zoom era. Even a court appearance from Saudi Arabia.

Transportation: Should Milwaukee Stop The Hop?
Transportation

Should Milwaukee Stop The Hop?

Alderman proposes this, but suspending the service might cost more than it saves.

Files in support of election operations and federal COVID relief approved by Council
City Hall: About That Proposed Street Lighting Fee
City Hall

About That Proposed Street Lighting Fee

Average homeowner fee is $45 per year so city could replace 100-year-old circuitry

Statement on Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Press Release

Statement on Indigenous Peoples’ Day

From members of the Milwaukee Common Council – Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Committee passes motion relating to protective services vacancies
Press Release

Committee passes motion relating to protective services vacancies

Would require MPD to explore possibility of filling openings by non-sworn employees

Wisconsin municipalities should be able to count mail-in ballots early
Press Release

Wisconsin municipalities should be able to count mail-in ballots early

Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council – Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

We have your back, Colectivo workers
Press Release

We have your back, Colectivo workers

Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council – Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman Scott Spiker and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic

City Hall: City Made $8.6 Million Debt Mistake
City Hall

City Made $8.6 Million Debt Mistake

Past Comptroller blamed. Mistake equivalent to all the salaries of health department staff.

City Hall: Assessor Wants No Assessments in 2021
City Hall

Assessor Wants No Assessments in 2021

Proposal would freeze property values for two years.

City Hall: 120 Officer Cut May Be Just The Beginning
City Hall

120 Officer Cut May Be Just The Beginning

The Milwaukee Police Department will have fewer officers in 2021, but the question is how many?

Cultural organization grant program aims to help financially-strapped arts providers
City Hall: City Expands Program To Fight Overdoses
City Hall

City Expands Program To Fight Overdoses

Housed in fire department, the MORI program aims to reduce drug addiction, overdoses.

Residents deserve better treatment after Hawley Road water main break
City of Milwaukee Arts Board announces 2020 Mildred L. Harpole Artists of the Year and Friends of the Arts Awards
City Hall: Budget Testimony Includes Repeated Ask For $75 Million Police Cut
City Hall

Budget Testimony Includes Repeated Ask For $75 Million Police Cut

Two-thirds of those that testified at preliminary budget hearing want funds to go towards health, housing.

Milwaukee athletes take a stand in support of racial justice
Press Release

Milwaukee athletes take a stand in support of racial justice

Joint statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council – Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Nik Kovac and Alderman Scott Spiker

City Hall: Budget Process Kicks Off On Wednesday
City Hall

Budget Process Kicks Off On Wednesday

Virtual hearing Wednesday, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Mayor will outline city's financial situation.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Couple Opens Medical Training Center
Eyes on Milwaukee

Couple Opens Medical Training Center

Former MPS facility at 69th and Appleton becomes Standard of Excellence training center for entry-level medical jobs.

Article offers insight into how Milwaukee suburbs keep out affordable housing
Press Release

Article offers insight into how Milwaukee suburbs keep out affordable housing

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy August 19, 2020

Police Cuts Could Hit Minority Officers

Police Cuts Could Hit Minority Officers

Milwaukee Police Department’s Black and Hispanic officers tend to have less seniority.

Milwaukee has an opportunity to usher in lasting change
Press Release

Milwaukee has an opportunity to usher in lasting change

Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council – Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II and Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton and Alderman Khalif J. Rainey

City efforts against reckless driving to include restriping of Grantosa Drive
Press Release

City efforts against reckless driving to include restriping of Grantosa Drive

Statement of Common Council President Cavalier Johnson July 29, 2020

Task Force Plan Targets Reckless Driving

Task Force Plan Targets Reckless Driving

City-County Carjacking and Reckless Driving Task Force contains strategies to combat problem.

City Hall: Assessment Commissioner Keeps His Job
City Hall

Assessment Commissioner Keeps His Job

Once expected to face a close vote, Steve Miner gets council approval on 13-2 vote.

Council approves resolution seeking to provide greater broadband access throughout Milwaukee
Ald. Coggs Wants To Increase Internet Access

Ald. Coggs Wants To Increase Internet Access

Remote work and education has made internet access a necessity.

Eyes on Milwaukee: $1 Million For ‘Really Unique Project’
Eyes on Milwaukee

$1 Million For ‘Really Unique Project’

Headline: Journal Sentinel building from 1960s would become housing for MATC students.

City Hall: Council Might Fire Assessor Steve Miner
City Hall

Council Might Fire Assessor Steve Miner

Assessment Commissioner finds little support from Judiciary & Legislation Committee.

Committee moves forward with grants to help bolster voting access, security
Remembering John Lewis
Press Release

Remembering John Lewis

Joint statement from Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, and Alderman Khalif J. Rainey July 20, 2020

Public comment sought again for next set of cabinet-level appointees
Press Release

Public comment sought again for next set of cabinet-level appointees

Leadership for Board of Zoning Appeals, Board of Review, Assessor’s Office, Department of Administration and Department of Employee Relations set for next week

Current openings make no sense, and the public deserves answers
Press Release

Current openings make no sense, and the public deserves answers

Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy July 17, 2020

Op Ed: Taking Back Our Streets
Op Ed

Taking Back Our Streets

Reckless driving plagues the city. An new coalition of concerned citizens wants your suggestions.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Secures Funding To Redevelop, Expand Century City Park
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Secures Funding To Redevelop, Expand Century City Park

Park will quadruple in size as of MKE Plays redevelopment.

Selection of next executive director of the Fire and Police Commission must involve community and must be transparent
Press Release

Selection of next executive director of the Fire and Police Commission must involve community and must be transparent

Statement from members of the Common Council: Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderman Nik Kovac and Alderman Caviler Johnson

Back in the News: Council Okays Funding for Indigent Defense
Back in the News

Council Okays Funding for Indigent Defense

Many Milwaukee Municipal Court defendants are poor and lack an attorney.

City Hall: Feds Won’t Cover $1.6 Million Hazard Pay
City Hall

Feds Won’t Cover $1.6 Million Hazard Pay

Changing guidance leaves Milwaukee holding the bag for COVID-19-related bonus.

Committee passes resolution supporting Gov. Evers’ policing accountability and transparency reforms
Protests throughout Wisconsin must remain peaceful
Press Release

Protests throughout Wisconsin must remain peaceful

Statement from members of the Milwaukee Common Council - Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Scott Spiker

Milwaukee County Headed for Record Overdoses in 2020

Milwaukee County Headed for Record Overdoses in 2020

By March the county was significantly ahead of 2019 in the number of deaths.

Council passes resolution seeking Juneteenth Day become a federal holiday
City Hall: Council Okays Planning for 10% Police Cut
City Hall

Council Okays Planning for 10% Police Cut

Requires city budget office to model what cut would look like, in time for fall budget debate.

City Hall: Council Proposes 10% Police Budget Cut
City Hall

Council Proposes 10% Police Budget Cut

11 council members back $30 million cut and investing in other programs.

City Hall: Police Blame Mayor, Council For Murder Rate
City Hall

Police Blame Mayor, Council For Murder Rate

Department uses official account to say budget cuts driving murder rate higher. Data doesn't prove link.

City Holds Emergency Council Meeting To Approve Voting Sites, Why?

City Holds Emergency Council Meeting To Approve Voting Sites, Why?

Move expands early voting access from three to 16 sites.

Grant extension of $500K good news for MKE’s efforts to combat opioid epidemic
Press Release

Grant extension of $500K good news for MKE’s efforts to combat opioid epidemic

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy June 10, 2020

Chief’s Crucifixion Message Panned by Council

Chief’s Crucifixion Message Panned by Council

13 members sign letter urging Morales: stop chiding protesters and listen to their message.

Protests must remain peaceful in the interest of public safety
Press Release

Protests must remain peaceful in the interest of public safety

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy June 4, 2020

Suburbs’ Policies Ignore Science, Kowalik Charges

Suburbs’ Policies Ignore Science, Kowalik Charges

Suburban elected officials overruling health officers on COVID-19, city official charges.

City Hall: Council Debates Assessment Process
City Hall

Council Debates Assessment Process

Alders unhappy. Assessor gets grilled about home value hikes in certain neighborhoods.

Joint statement on free COVID-19 testing for Milwaukee’s communities of color
Press Release

Joint statement on free COVID-19 testing for Milwaukee’s communities of color

From Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Scott Spiker, Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic

City Hall: City To Furlough, Cut Hours For 750 Employees
City Hall

City To Furlough, Cut Hours For 750 Employees

Revenue down $27 million in pandemic and city forced to make cuts.

City Hall: Johnson Chooses Powerful Committee Chairs
City Hall

Johnson Chooses Powerful Committee Chairs

Not every supporter rewarded. New council president says picks reflect experience, not politics.

Murphy’s Law: How Hamilton Lost Council Presidency
Murphy’s Law

How Hamilton Lost Council Presidency

Will bad feelings linger over Cavalier Johnson’s victory?

City Hall: 7 COVID-19 Cases From In-Person Voting?
City Hall

7 COVID-19 Cases From In-Person Voting?

Likely to rise as Health Department reviews all data. Council pushes for absentee voting.

City Hall: Johnson Elected Council President
City Hall

Johnson Elected Council President

Second-term Ald. Cavalier Johnson defeats Ashanti Hamilton and Milele Coggs.

City Health: White City Worker Wins Racial Bias Payout
City Health

White City Worker Wins Racial Bias Payout

Health department employee's claims involve former interim commissioner Patricia McManus.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Approves Wisconsin Center Deal
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Approves Wisconsin Center Deal

Expansion approved and could pay $1 million per year to Milwaukee. But Bauman, others doubt it.

12 Election Takeaways

12 Election Takeaways

How high was turnout, lawyers will be busy, girl power, streetcar wins again and a new council president?

2020 Spring Election Results

2020 Spring Election Results

Live City of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County results for the April 7th Spring Election.

Vote Absentee: Common Council Candidates
Vote Absentee

Common Council Candidates

Ten contested races could reshape 15-member council.

City Hall: Council Overrides Mayor’s Veto
City Hall

Council Overrides Mayor’s Veto

Should Friends of Housing contract be terminated? Did mayor violate attorney-client privilege or council violate city charter?

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Delays Convention Expansion?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Delays Convention Expansion?

9-4 vote seeks to prevent convention center expansion during pandemic.

City Hall: Milwaukee on 70-Year Pace To Replace Lead Laterals
City Hall

Milwaukee on 70-Year Pace To Replace Lead Laterals

What will the city do for property owners that want to voluntarily replace their laterals?

City Hall: Milwaukee Will Cut Down 900 of Its Ash Trees
City Hall

Milwaukee Will Cut Down 900 of Its Ash Trees

Federal grant funds replacement of trees ravaged by Emerald Ash Borer.

City Hall: Audit Gives Water Works High Marks
City Hall

Audit Gives Water Works High Marks

Outside audit of city utility found good practices for lead reduction, water quality monitoring.

Plats and Parcels: 11 Key Details About the Convention Center Expansion
Plats and Parcels

11 Key Details About the Convention Center Expansion

Plus: Rite-Hite moving to city, Mitchell Street mystery, Lower East Side projects still alive.

Coronavirus Likely to Hit Milwaukee, Officials Say

Coronavirus Likely to Hit Milwaukee, Officials Say

Health Department officials are planning for response to outbreak.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Wants $5 Million of Hotel Tax Per Year
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Wants $5 Million of Hotel Tax Per Year

Council may rescind support for convention center expansion without its historic cut of tax restored.

City Hall: Perez Leads Termination of Friends of Housing Contract
City Hall

Perez Leads Termination of Friends of Housing Contract

Frustrated by nuisance properties, Alderman takes aim at organization's city contracts.

Red Light Cameras Are Not the Cure for What Ails Milwaukee
Press Release

Red Light Cameras Are Not the Cure for What Ails Milwaukee

A Long-Term Solution to Reckless Driving Will Require Leadership

City Hall: City’s Permit Could Charge Summerfest
City Hall

City’s Permit Could Charge Summerfest

Revised special events permit could charge festival full price of police security.

City’s African American Auto Deaths Soar

City’s African American Auto Deaths Soar

Up by 93% in five years, report finds. Statistic is “shocking,” says Ald. Murphy

Plats and Parcels: Strauss Closes Door on Milwaukee Move
Plats and Parcels

Strauss Closes Door on Milwaukee Move

Plus: An abandoned basement discovered in former Grand Avenue Mall.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Wins Grant for New Park on 31st and Galena
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Wins Grant for New Park on 31st and Galena

Pump track, sepak takraw courts will cater to cyclists and area's Southeast Asian population. Builds on previous support from Green Bay Packers.

City Hall: Committee Approves Large Solar Deal After Contentious Debate
City Hall

Committee Approves Large Solar Deal After Contentious Debate

Ald. Bob Bauman's amendments attempt to set baseline, grow value of deal.

County Had Record Overdose Deaths in 2019

County Had Record Overdose Deaths in 2019

404 overdose deaths last year; previous high was 401 in 2017.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Okays Convention Center Expansion
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Okays Convention Center Expansion

Cost of $300 to $375 million. Murphy questions whether it will fill more hotel rooms.

Murphy’s Law: Summerfest Flush With Cash
Murphy’s Law

Summerfest Flush With Cash

Festival has $47 million net fund balance. Aldermen say it can afford to pay for police services.

City Hall: Is Tire Disposal Fee Causing Illegal Dumping?
City Hall

Is Tire Disposal Fee Causing Illegal Dumping?

Council wants data, raises concerns.

City Hall: Council Inches Toward Universal Basic Income
City Hall

Council Inches Toward Universal Basic Income

Proposal will create a framework, needs philanthropic support.

City Hall: Meet the Candidates for City Offices
City Hall

Meet the Candidates for City Offices

Packed spring election features 46 candidates for 19 city offices.

City Hall: Pipe Destroyed in Water Main Break
City Hall

Pipe Destroyed in Water Main Break

"Very, very rare" break destroys 29 feet of water main, raises questions, devastates residents in area.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Is There A Plan To Prevent New Tent City?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Is There A Plan To Prevent New Tent City?

City officials worry. If no plan, should state build a campground under highway?

South Hawley Road to Fully Reopen on Monday, January 13
City of Milwaukee Arts Board seeks proposals responding to the role of the arts and artists in civic engagement
Plats and Parcels: Meet HQ501
Plats and Parcels

Meet HQ501

Scott Lurie, in partnership with RINKA, unveils renderings for redeveloped Assurant building.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Invests in 207 Affordable Homes
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Invests in 207 Affordable Homes

Housing Trust Fund will provide $900,000 in capital. Can this program be grown?

City Hall: City Wins $700,000 For Drug Overdose Fight
City Hall

City Wins $700,000 For Drug Overdose Fight

Opioid program has saved 15 lives in 2019; new funding will expand program.

Murphy’s Law: Summerfest Pays No Net Rent
Murphy’s Law

Summerfest Pays No Net Rent

Charges ethnic festivals more rent than it pays city, like “a greedy landlord,” alderman charges.

Murphy’s Law: Summerfest Got $48 Million in Gifts
Murphy’s Law

Summerfest Got $48 Million in Gifts

Total donations from 2010 to 2018 helped pay for CEO Don Smiley’s "caviar lifestyle"?

City Hall: Barrett Issues 8 Budget Vetoes
City Hall

Barrett Issues 8 Budget Vetoes

Vetoes attack borrowing, garbage truck replacement, blight elimination.

Morales Blames ACLU Suit for Traffic Ticket Drop

Morales Blames ACLU Suit for Traffic Ticket Drop

Police Chief says stop-and-frisk settlement caused decline. But some question this.

City Hall: Police Overtime Costs a Budget Problem
City Hall

Police Overtime Costs a Budget Problem

Council discusses how to trim annual cost of $17 million. Unfunded service for Summerfest an issue.

Senator Johnson continues to lobby for vaping industry – at the expense of Wisconsin’s children and young people
Press Release

Senator Johnson continues to lobby for vaping industry – at the expense of Wisconsin’s children and young people

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy November 14, 2019

Eyes on Milwaukee: The Brewery Celebrates Its Completion
Eyes on Milwaukee

The Brewery Celebrates Its Completion

New gateway tops off transformation from abandoned brewery to real neighborhood.

City Hall: Council Cuts Police, Adopts $1.6 Billion Budget
City Hall

Council Cuts Police, Adopts $1.6 Billion Budget

Council wrestles with huge fiscal challenges due to rising police costs, declining state aid.

Murphy’s Law: Summerfest CEO Awarded $2.33 Million
Murphy’s Law

Summerfest CEO Awarded $2.33 Million

Don Smiley’s 2017 pay package includes $1.3 million deferred from prior years. City officials “shocked.”

City Hall: Proposal Uses Lead Abatement Funds for Marketing
City Hall

Proposal Uses Lead Abatement Funds for Marketing

Ald. Lewis proposes using lateral replacement funds for council's "community outreach."

Murphy’s Law: Summerfest Blows Off City Meeting
Murphy’s Law

Summerfest Blows Off City Meeting

No festival official attends scheduled meeting. Partnership with city “broken”, Ald. Murphy says.

Transportation: Street Safety Funding Passes Committee
Transportation

Street Safety Funding Passes Committee

DPW would get $1.2 million in new, dedicated funding for complete streets.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Proposal Would Fund Emergency Housing
Eyes on Milwaukee

Proposal Would Fund Emergency Housing

City-owned properties would house displaced families, human trafficking victims. Plus: committee cuts Bublr funding.

City Hall: Proposal Gives Residents a Basic Income
City Hall

Proposal Gives Residents a Basic Income

Lewis, Kovac back "Universal Basic Income" for 50 poorer families of $500 per month.

Preliminary report to be released by Carjacking and Reckless Driving Task Force
Press Release

Preliminary report to be released by Carjacking and Reckless Driving Task Force

News Release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

Transportation: Committee Approves City BRT Agreement
Transportation

Committee Approves City BRT Agreement

City DPW would be reimbursed by Milwaukee County for design and infrastructure costs.

Council approves hiring outside counsel to recover opioid epidemic costs
Press Release

Council approves hiring outside counsel to recover opioid epidemic costs

News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

Transportation: Hawley Road’s Diet
Transportation

Hawley Road’s Diet

New protected bike lane, traffic calming accomplished with paint and plastic.

City Hall: Should Smoking Be Banned in Front of Public Buildings?
City Hall

Should Smoking Be Banned in Front of Public Buildings?

Murphy and Donovan square off over smoking in front of City Hall.

Eyes on Milwaukee: $75,000 Donated to Maintain City Hall Sculpture
Eyes on Milwaukee

$75,000 Donated to Maintain City Hall Sculpture

Anonymous donor chips in $75,000 to support "Mixed Feelings."

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Approves Ikon Hotel Deal Despite Objections
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Approves Ikon Hotel Deal Despite Objections

Plus: Council unanimously endorses host of other development projects.

Eyes on Milwaukee: African American Affairs Office Planned for W. Fond du Lac Ave.
Eyes on Milwaukee

African American Affairs Office Planned for W. Fond du Lac Ave.

City will set up clearinghouse for city, community resources at 48th and Fond du Lac.

Eyes on Milwaukee: $44 Million Soldiers Home Project Launched
Eyes on Milwaukee

$44 Million Soldiers Home Project Launched

Huge group of politicians, dignitaries, salute project to redevelop Civil War-era VA complex.

City Hall: Should Milwaukee Ban Plastic Straws?
City Hall

Should Milwaukee Ban Plastic Straws?

Some alderman seem in favor. It's one of the few single-use plastics the city could ban.

City Hall: City Recycled More in 2018
City Hall

City Recycled More in 2018

Residents recycled 25,451 tons in 2018, but don't throw plastic bags in the bins.

County’s Overdose Deaths Up in 2019

County’s Overdose Deaths Up in 2019

At current rate, county would hit highest total of drug fatalities in a decade.

City of Milwaukee Health Department Urges Residents to Stop Using Vaping Products
Press Release

City of Milwaukee Health Department Urges Residents to Stop Using Vaping Products

Severe pulmonary disease has been discovered among teens and adults who reported vaping

Bar Exam: There’s Only One Liquid Johnny’s
Bar Exam

There’s Only One Liquid Johnny’s

Classic Milwaukee. Same name since 1981. Wear your cat shirt and get free draft beer.

Study to evaluate redevelopment on West Burleigh Street
Press Release

Study to evaluate redevelopment on West Burleigh Street

Alderman Khalif J. Rainey said the study will focus on renovating existing properties, establishing new businesses and creating a more aesthetically pleasing environment.

MKE Plays receives $500K from Burke Foundation
Press Release

MKE Plays receives $500K from Burke Foundation

This is the second large donation to MKE Plays by The Burke Foundation

FPC Nominee Faces Cloud of Uncertainty

FPC Nominee Faces Cloud of Uncertainty

Council vote unclear on Griselda Aldrete, mayor's pick to lead Fire & Police Commission.

City May Sue Opioid Manufacturers

City May Sue Opioid Manufacturers

Murphy wants city attorney to consider suit for damages from opioid epidemic.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Journal Sentinel Making Historic Move
Eyes on Milwaukee

Journal Sentinel Making Historic Move

Newspaper selling its home of 95 years, moving to leased space in 330 Kilbourn complex.

Clean Drinking Water Effort Falls Short

Clean Drinking Water Effort Falls Short

$40 million state funding to replace lead laterals cut from budget by Republicans.

‘No Singles/No Loosies’ campaign looks to reduce smoking in teens, young adults
Press Release

‘No Singles/No Loosies’ campaign looks to reduce smoking in teens, young adults

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy July 23, 2019

City Hall: Take It EZ, Donovan Urges
City Hall

Take It EZ, Donovan Urges

New public-private initiative targets reckless driving in the city.

City Hall: Aldermen Blast City’s Call Center
City Hall

Aldermen Blast City’s Call Center

Should you call 286-City to report a pothole? Don't bother, some aldermen say.

Transportation: Committee Okays City Pedestrian Plan
Transportation

Committee Okays City Pedestrian Plan

98 pages with 100 actions suggested. But will any of it be funded?

Eyes on Milwaukee: Couple Plans Center Street Rehab Project
Eyes on Milwaukee

Couple Plans Center Street Rehab Project

Will buy building from city near N. 51st St. and restore it to "enhance" the community.

City Hall: Council Passes New Tow Truck Rules
City Hall

Council Passes New Tow Truck Rules

Private operators must must file forms regarding any "drops". Next could be report cards.

Effort Improves City’s Recreation Areas

Effort Improves City’s Recreation Areas

MPS has invested $12 million in rebuilding, renovating outdoor athletic and play facilities.

Transportation: Is the City Ready for Scooters?
Transportation

Is the City Ready for Scooters?

Council debates pilot program allowing scooters. "We're all scared to death," Borkowski says.

Bill Allows Red Light Cameras in City

Bill Allows Red Light Cameras in City

Legislation would give Milwaukee Police another tool to combat speeding, reckless driving.

Resolution to adopt a Green Infrastructure Plan for the City of Milwaukee advances to the Common Council
Press Release

Resolution to adopt a Green Infrastructure Plan for the City of Milwaukee advances to the Common Council

“The Green Infrastructure Plan will reduce the amount of rainwater that flows into the sewerage system following a wet-weather event.”

City Hall: City Is Repaving More Streets
City Hall

City Is Repaving More Streets

But is focus on streets just creating a backlog of alleys and sidewalks needing work?

Transportation: City Confident Couture Won’t Block Streetcar
Transportation

City Confident Couture Won’t Block Streetcar

Federal grant at risk if lakefront extension to The Couture isn't running by end of 2020.

Council approves resolution supporting creation of federal Green New Deal legislation
Press Release

Council approves resolution supporting creation of federal Green New Deal legislation

News release by Alderman Nik Kovac and Cavalier Johnson

City Hall: Oh, Those Dreaded Plastic Bags
City Hall

Oh, Those Dreaded Plastic Bags

Council debates what to do with bags that clog up recycling process.

Op Ed: Too Much Historic Preservation?
Op Ed

Too Much Historic Preservation?

City now has 180 designated sites. Often this has nothing to do with preservation.

Transportation: City a Leader in Complete Streets Policy
Transportation

City a Leader in Complete Streets Policy

Milwaukee's Complete Streets policy ranks third nationally in report, but yet to be tested.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Says Marcus Center Not Historic
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Says Marcus Center Not Historic

Votes down designation and compromise to save Kiley grove with a friends group.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Okays Subsidy for One MKE Plaza
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Okays Subsidy for One MKE Plaza

Comptroller calls the deal a "significant risk" but council votes 12-3 in favor.

Mayor Barrett: Secure Our Neighborhoods, Fix Our Streets, and Enough with Your Damned Streetcar
Press Release

Mayor Barrett: Secure Our Neighborhoods, Fix Our Streets, and Enough with Your Damned Streetcar

Aldermen urge citizens to voice their opposition to the streetcar by saying “Enough is Enough!’ Joint statement from Alderman Bob Donovan and Alderman Mark A. Borkowski May 6, 2019

Gov. Evers Announces Staff Appointments for Governor’s Office in Milwaukee
Press Release

Gov. Evers Announces Staff Appointments for Governor’s Office in Milwaukee

Dr. Shandowlyon Hendricks-Williams will serve as the Milwaukee Director, Edwin Huertas will serve as the Milwaukee Deputy Director, and Revelle Williams will serve as the Milwaukee Constituent Services Manager.

City May Expand Residency Incentives

City May Expand Residency Incentives

Proposal would extend incentives to police and fire fighters.

Transportation: Milwaukeeans Getting Worse at Driving
Transportation

Milwaukeeans Getting Worse at Driving

Crashes up 51% since 2009. Is cell phone use by drivers helping drive numbers?

City Hall: The Cold War With We Energies
City Hall

The Cold War With We Energies

Bauman, other aldermen believe city is charging too little for utility's use of city land.

City Hall: Who Wants to Design A New City Flag?
City Hall

Who Wants to Design A New City Flag?

Common Council starting process intended to end flag debate.

Council unanimously passes resolution to study feasibility and costs of an environmentally friendly purchasing program
A House Divided: Comments from State Rep Show the Current Chasm in Wisconsin
Press Release

A House Divided: Comments from State Rep Show the Current Chasm in Wisconsin

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy April 10, 2019

City Hall: Council Wants Better Pothole Response
City Hall

Council Wants Better Pothole Response

Public Works officials say Milwaukee bests other cities. Not good enough, aldermen say.

City Hall: FLAC, Get the Lead Out Fight City Over Lead Posioning
City Hall

FLAC, Get the Lead Out Fight City Over Lead Posioning

Groups have a showdown with city officials over claims surrounding city's failure on lead poisoning, infant mortality.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Commission Deems Journal Sentinel Complex Historic
Eyes on Milwaukee

Commission Deems Journal Sentinel Complex Historic

Two council members push for designation in advance of paper's possible relocation.

City Hall: City Approves DNC Contract
City Hall

City Approves DNC Contract

City expects $50 million from federal government to pay for security.

City Hall: Donovan Won’t Run for Re-Election
City Hall

Donovan Won’t Run for Re-Election

Fightin' Bob is walking away. Zamarripa and Bielinski likely to run for council seat.

City Hall: Who Will (Finally) Clear The Snow?
City Hall

Who Will (Finally) Clear The Snow?

"Why did you stop sending out front-end loaders to finish the job?" irate alderman asks.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Journal Complex Historic for Now
Eyes on Milwaukee

Journal Complex Historic for Now

Historic Preservation Commission grants temporary designation for complex.

City Hall: Littering Will Now Cost $500
City Hall

Littering Will Now Cost $500

Council raises minimum fine from $25 to $500. "Our streets are dirty," says Ald. Stamper.

City Hall: Council Will Now Make Flag Decision
City Hall

Council Will Now Make Flag Decision

Will city ever have new flag? Council punted issue to arts board and board punted it back.

City Hall: City Struggles to Keep Up Snow Plowing
City Hall

City Struggles to Keep Up Snow Plowing

Problems include aging equipment, staff shortages and inexperienced operators.

Joint statement on the death of a Department of Public Works worker
Press Release

Joint statement on the death of a Department of Public Works worker

From Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderman Robert Donovan, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Mark A. Borkowski, Alderman Jóse G. Pérez, Alderman Terry L. Witkowski, Alderman Tony Zielinski, and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Joint statement on fallen Milwaukee Police Officer
Press Release

Joint statement on fallen Milwaukee Police Officer

From Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Jóse G. Pérez, Alderman Robert Donovan, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II, Alderwoman Chantia Lewis, Alderman Robert J. Bauman, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderwoman Nikiya Dodd, Alderman Terry L. Witkowski, Alderman Cavalier Johnson and Alderman Mark A. Borkowski

Eyes on Milwaukee: So is the Journal Building Historic?
Eyes on Milwaukee

So is the Journal Building Historic?

Historic Preservation Commission goes from one preservation battle to another.

City Hall: Karen Dettmer Will Lead Water Works
City Hall

Karen Dettmer Will Lead Water Works

Committee puts veteran engineer through the ringer before endorsing her appointment.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Bradley Center To Go Boom
Eyes on Milwaukee

Bradley Center To Go Boom

A series of "shaped charges" will detonate and lower the roof on January 13th.

Prime mixed-use development opportunity for Capitol Library
Press Release

Prime mixed-use development opportunity for Capitol Library

"With the new library being a catalytic community economic development project, this is an exciting opportunity for a developer to help shape the future of this neighborhood."

Drug Task Force Seeks Community Input

Drug Task Force Seeks Community Input

City-County Heroin, Opioid and Cocaine Task Force seeks solutions to drug epidemic.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Okays Largest Urban Manufacturing Deal in U.S.
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Okays Largest Urban Manufacturing Deal in U.S.

West Milwaukee company will move to city, but will it create any new jobs?

Campaign Cash: Walker Rewards Restaurant Association?
Campaign Cash

Walker Rewards Restaurant Association?

They gave him $38,000, his board bans city’s food safety ratings of restaurants.

Opioid Task Force Issues Recommendations

Opioid Task Force Issues Recommendations

Next step is to implement the city-county task force’s findings, says Ald. Murphy.

Final report released by Heroin, Opioid and Cocaine Task Force
Press Release

Final report released by Heroin, Opioid and Cocaine Task Force

News release and report from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

Murphy’s Law: State Ruling Threatens City Health?
Murphy’s Law

State Ruling Threatens City Health?

Killing city’s restaurant rating system could increase food-borne illness in Milwaukee.

Food grading system decision ignores wishes of Milwaukee consumers, business owners
Press Release

Food grading system decision ignores wishes of Milwaukee consumers, business owners

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy - November 29, 2018

City Hall: Council Slaps Down Mayor’s Vetoes
City Hall

Council Slaps Down Mayor’s Vetoes

Legislative body rejects all five vetoes by Mayor Tom Barrett.

City’s Restaurant Grading System Threatened

City’s Restaurant Grading System Threatened

State board votes to prohibit system grading restaurants for food safety.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Disconnect Your Downspouts, Get $100
Eyes on Milwaukee

Disconnect Your Downspouts, Get $100

City program affecting 54,000 homes part of plan to prevent Deep Tunnel overflows.

City Hall: 10 Curious Details in City’s 2019 Budget
City Hall

10 Curious Details in City’s 2019 Budget

A city store? No more alley repairs? Cutting tree trimming? The $1.5 billion budget has it all.

City Hall: Arts Board Wants New City Flag Search
City Hall

Arts Board Wants New City Flag Search

Process to select popular People's Flag not inclusive enough, board decides, so start over.

City Hall: Council Adopts 2019 City Budget
City Hall

Council Adopts 2019 City Budget

Average homeowner will see $51.88 increase, no change in total fire and police officers.

Op Ed: Doctors “Pumping Pills on the Streets”?
Op Ed

Doctors “Pumping Pills on the Streets”?

The City-County heroin and opioid task force should be investigating the role of physicians.

Businesses and officials: Keep Milwaukee’s popular food grading system
Press Release

Businesses and officials: Keep Milwaukee’s popular food grading system

State board poised to eliminate popular grading system for food establishments; news conference set for Monday

City Hall: Pay Hike for City Politicians Is On Hold
City Hall

Pay Hike for City Politicians Is On Hold

Ald. Chantia Lewis delays vote on 13.6% raise she and some other colleagues want. Mayor threatens veto.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Streetcar Opens to Public
Eyes on Milwaukee

Streetcar Opens to Public

"This is your assignment: ride the streetcar," says Mayor Barrett.

City Hall: Barrett Signs Complete Streets Policy
City Hall

Barrett Signs Complete Streets Policy

Mayor, city officials and activists gather to celebrate new legislation.

City Hall: Council Passes Complete Streets Policy
City Hall

Council Passes Complete Streets Policy

Streets for all, not just cars, is now the law of the land.

City Hall: How Long Will Flag Debate Last?
City Hall

How Long Will Flag Debate Last?

Arts Board might not have decision on the city flag by the end of 2018.

City Hall: Committee Okays Complete Streets Policy
City Hall

Committee Okays Complete Streets Policy

Proposal on street design places pedestrians and cyclists on same level as motorists

Murphy’s Law: Was Barrett Asleep on Health Department?
Murphy’s Law

Was Barrett Asleep on Health Department?

Problems may go back a decade and mayor deserves much blame, some alderman say.

City Hall: Council Okays Market-Based Parking Fees
City Hall

Council Okays Market-Based Parking Fees

But Tony Zielinski adamantly opposes it, joined by four other council members.

City Hall: The Inspector General Is Coming
City Hall

The Inspector General Is Coming

Common Council creates its own watchdog to monitor city departments.

Green Bay Packers players to take part in MKE Plays playground build
Press Release

Green Bay Packers players to take part in MKE Plays playground build

News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

Income is Greatest Barrier to Affordable Housing

Income is Greatest Barrier to Affordable Housing

Report finds incomes in Milwaukee County are a greater barrier to housing than high rents.

City Hall: Health Commissioner Pick Gets First Approval
City Hall

Health Commissioner Pick Gets First Approval

Kowalik wins unanimous vote from committee, interim commissioner reveals ongoing issues.

Joint Statement on the death of Officer Michael Michalski
Press Release

Joint Statement on the death of Officer Michael Michalski

From Alderman Terry Witkowski, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Michael J. Murphy, Alderman Jóse G. Pérez, Alderman Nicholas Kovac, Alderman Mark Borkowski, Alderman Tony Zielinski, Alderman Bob Donovan, Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, and Alderman Robert Bauman

City Hall: Committee Okays Dockless Bike Sharing
City Hall

Committee Okays Dockless Bike Sharing

LimeBike and others could operate by late August, if full council approves measure.

City Hall: City Moves to Impound Bird Scooters
City Hall

City Moves to Impound Bird Scooters

With no authority to legalize scooters, city officials move to get them off the streets.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Chinese Recycling Change Will Hurt City

Contribution to Michael Murphy of $72

Eyes on Milwaukee: Chinese Recycling Change Will Hurt City
Eyes on Milwaukee

Chinese Recycling Change Will Hurt City

City's annual $870,000 loss due to change by world's largest buyer of recycled paper.

City Hall: Zielinski Out as Licenses Committee Chair
City Hall

Zielinski Out as Licenses Committee Chair

Did he lose the powerful post because he's running for mayor?

Common Council passes e-cigarette measure
Press Release

Common Council passes e-cigarette measure

Latest move caps off public health package

City Wins $30,000 Grant for Parks

City Wins $30,000 Grant for Parks

Ald. Murphy's MKE Plays program has raised $1.7 million for parks since 2015.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Rebuilding a Vibrant Bronzeville
Eyes on Milwaukee

Rebuilding a Vibrant Bronzeville

Actor Danny Glover and many local notables celebrate new development anchored by Black Holocaust Museum.

City receives $30,000 ‘Meet Me at the Park’ grant to increase access to local play spaces
City Hall: Council Moves to Confirm New Port Director
City Hall

Council Moves to Confirm New Port Director

Adam Schlicht has dreams of growing the port through international marketing.

Community Engagement Session Hosted by Heroin, Opioid and Cocaine Task Force
Press Release

Community Engagement Session Hosted by Heroin, Opioid and Cocaine Task Force

News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Khalif J. Rainey

Report Finds Milwaukee Mismanaged Lead Cases

Report Finds Milwaukee Mismanaged Lead Cases

Missing case files, cases closed prematurely and health department failed to follow state law

A special time and a time to move on to a new challenge
Press Release

A special time and a time to move on to a new challenge

Statement of Alderman Jim Bohl - May 24, 2018

City-County Plan Targets Opioid Epidemic

City-County Plan Targets Opioid Epidemic

300 opioid overdoses in county last year. Task force proposes eight focus areas.

Eyes on Milwaukee: A Washington Heights Ribbon Cutting
Eyes on Milwaukee

A Washington Heights Ribbon Cutting

Music school opens in formerly vacant building on 47th and Vliet.

City of Milwaukee Arts Board awards $227,500 to 35 arts organizations
Press Release

City of Milwaukee Arts Board awards $227,500 to 35 arts organizations

MAB grants require a dollar-for-dollar cash match from other sources

State overpays for building, hurts city in process
Press Release

State overpays for building, hurts city in process

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy - May 8, 2018

City Hall: Stop-and-Frisk Suit Could Cost $6 Million
City Hall

Stop-and-Frisk Suit Could Cost $6 Million

Council members struggle with the rising price tag. Will they approve settlement?

Art Walk on West Vliet Street this weekend
Press Release

Art Walk on West Vliet Street this weekend

The event will feature local artists, shops, restaurants, galleries with live music, special pop-up shops, a visit from the A.W.E. Truck Studio and more.

Legislation mandates lead water lines replacement at child care facilities
Press Release

Legislation mandates lead water lines replacement at child care facilities

This mandate applies to both publicly-owned and privately-owned portions of lead service lines.

City Hall: 4th St. Will Become Vel. R. Phillips Ave.
City Hall

4th St. Will Become Vel. R. Phillips Ave.

Major downtown street to be renamed for Milwaukee leader and civil rights pioneer.

Ascension announces pause to service downsizing at St. Joseph
Press Release

Ascension announces pause to service downsizing at St. Joseph

Press release from Alders Khalif J. Rainey, Michael Murphy and Bob Donovan

City Hall: The Remarkable Life of Vel Phillips
City Hall

The Remarkable Life of Vel Phillips

"A giant in our state" dies at 94; city to honor political pioneer with annual award.

Council approves Ascension service retention measure
Press Release

Council approves Ascension service retention measure

"Citizens across our city rely on Ascension facilities for care..."

Court Watch: MPD Traffic Citations Hit Minorities Heavily
Court Watch

MPD Traffic Citations Hit Minorities Heavily

Whites issued just 13% of traffic citations by Milwaukee Police in 2017.

Sculpture Milwaukee work earns place outside City Hall
Press Release

Sculpture Milwaukee work earns place outside City Hall

Tony Cragg’s Mixed Feelings donated anonymously through the Greater Milwaukee Foundation

MKE Plays Receives $10K contribution
Press Release

MKE Plays Receives $10K contribution

Gift supports the revitalization of neighborhood parks across Milwaukee

State changes to residency law having a negative impact on Milwaukee
Press Release

State changes to residency law having a negative impact on Milwaukee

"The state needs to answer for this situation."

City Hall: Mayor Allows Interim Health Leader
City Hall

Mayor Allows Interim Health Leader

Returns file to the council unsigned, opens door to approval of McManus.

City Hall: Will Mayor Confirm Health Commissioner?
City Hall

Will Mayor Confirm Health Commissioner?

Newly-appointed Patricia McManus still needs confirmation.

Comments by newly appointed interim Health Department commissioner troubling
Press Release

Comments by newly appointed interim Health Department commissioner troubling

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy - February 9, 2018

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Appoints McManus Interim Health Leader
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Appoints McManus Interim Health Leader

She'll be interim commissioner. Says city's failure to send letters about lead was "deliberate."

Eyes on Milwaukee: $750 Million to Replace Lead Pipes
Eyes on Milwaukee

$750 Million to Replace Lead Pipes

Solutions to city's lead laterals expensive and not simple, council members find.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Wants Downtown Parking Security
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Wants Downtown Parking Security

40% of downtown crimes are vehicle break-ins. Council demands safety measures.

Light & Unite Red Campaign for substance abuse awareness
Press Release

Light & Unite Red Campaign for substance abuse awareness

Alderman Michael J. Murphy shows his support for substance abuse awareness

Commissioner Baker’s departure leaves us all with many, many questions
Press Release

Commissioner Baker’s departure leaves us all with many, many questions

Statement from Alderman Bob Donovan - January 16, 2018

Council set to act on Health Department crisis
Press Release

Council set to act on Health Department crisis

Joint statement from the Milwaukee Common Council

Common Council Statement on Flynn Retirement
Press Release

Common Council Statement on Flynn Retirement

Statement from the Common Council - January 8th, 2018

Eyes on Milwaukee: City May Contest Foxconn Electricity Deal
Eyes on Milwaukee

City May Contest Foxconn Electricity Deal

Bauman, Kovac call We Energies deal "hypocrisy"; City Attorney may challenge it.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Kills Contracts With American Sewer
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Kills Contracts With American Sewer

Council moves to subpoena owner, Donovan walks out of heated discussion about racism.

Alderman Murphy and Alderman Pérez encouraged by Chief Flynn and Mayor’s new stance on traffic enforcement policy
Press Release

Alderman Murphy and Alderman Pérez encouraged by Chief Flynn and Mayor’s new stance on traffic enforcement policy

Ald. Murphy and Ald. Pérez look forward to further changes being implemented on the roadways to ensure safety.

Drug-Related Deaths To Hit 420 in 2017

Drug-Related Deaths To Hit 420 in 2017

Police targeting opioid suppliers. City-County Task Force struggles to hold meetings.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Affordable Housing Plan Inches Forward
Eyes on Milwaukee

Affordable Housing Plan Inches Forward

But proposal has been narrowed, will only affect city-financed projects.

City’s Housing Fund Has Big Impact

City’s Housing Fund Has Big Impact

$7 million invested over 11 years has leveraged an additional $176 million in spending.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Ban Contractors From Carrying Guns?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Ban Contractors From Carrying Guns?

Proposal causes fierce Common Council debate. Plus: Bauman slams city attorneys.

Ribbon-cutting ceremony for Garden District mural work, “Flowers in Bloom”
Press Release

Ribbon-cutting ceremony for Garden District mural work, “Flowers in Bloom”

The mural is a part of a neighborhood beautification project.

Time for Governor to invest within to solve workforce issues
Press Release

Time for Governor to invest within to solve workforce issues

News release from Aldermen Murphy, Perez and Johnson

Alderman Murphy secures funding for opioid addiction awareness
Press Release

Alderman Murphy secures funding for opioid addiction awareness

The number of deaths related to opioid overdoses keeps climbing.

Back in the News: Council Okays Lawyers for Muni Court
Back in the News

Council Okays Lawyers for Muni Court

Will help defendants who can be jailed when they can’t afford to pay fines.

Common Council approves Municipal Court legal representation for indigent residents
Press Release

Common Council approves Municipal Court legal representation for indigent residents

The proposed ordinance passed unanimously, allocating up to $45,000 to the non-profit Legal Action of Wisconsin.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Delays Action On Shopping Carts
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Delays Action On Shopping Carts

Stores need more notice, they decide, on ordinance requiring locks on all carts.

Housing Trust Fund grant allocations approved by Common Council
Press Release

Housing Trust Fund grant allocations approved by Common Council

Housing Trust Fund grants total $600,000 for affordable and supportive housing projects

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Overrides Most of Mayor’s Vetoes
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Overrides Most of Mayor’s Vetoes

Bauman accuses Barrett of false promises, Stamper calls mayor "disingenuous."

Marquette’s College of Health Sciences will host panel discussion on opioid epidemic
Press Release

Marquette’s College of Health Sciences will host panel discussion on opioid epidemic

The free, public event is Thursday, Nov. 30, at 7:15 a.m. in the Monaghan Ballroom on the third-floor of the Alumni Memorial Union

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Atty Says Affordable Housing Plan Illegal
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Atty Says Affordable Housing Plan Illegal

Will legal opinion kill the proposal? Or can Bauman and company rework the language?

MKE Plays Receives $100K from Herb Kohl Philanthropies
Press Release

MKE Plays Receives $100K from Herb Kohl Philanthropies

Gift supports the revitalization of neighborhood parks across Milwaukee

Eyes on Milwaukee: Affordable Housing in Every Major Project?
Eyes on Milwaukee

Affordable Housing in Every Major Project?

Proposal would require it for any project with 20 or more units. Will developers oppose it?

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Okays Disparity Study, More Cops
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Okays Disparity Study, More Cops

Compromise proposal funds study of gender, race disparities and five new police recruits.

The Milwaukee Soldiers Home Project is funded in time for Veterans Day
Press Release

The Milwaukee Soldiers Home Project is funded in time for Veterans Day

The Housing Trust Fund Advisory Board allocates $150,000 to the project which offers housing to homeless veterans.

Special Report: Opioid Crisis Hits City Hard
Special Report

Opioid Crisis Hits City Hard

County’s huge increase isn’t just suburban whites, city and minority residents hurt, too.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Overrides Mayor on Firing Flynn
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Overrides Mayor on Firing Flynn

10-5 vote means city lobbyist must seek state law giving council power to fire chiefs.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Votes for Authority to Fire Flynn
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Votes for Authority to Fire Flynn

Requests state law giving them power to fire police and fire chiefs. Mayor promises a veto.

Citizens of Milwaukee
Press Release

Citizens of Milwaukee

For the 14th consecutive budget, Mayor Barrett is going to cut your fire department.

Murphy’s Law: Will City Reform Municipal Court?
Murphy’s Law

Will City Reform Municipal Court?

Too many judges, indigent defendants treated badly, reform needed.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Ald. Hamilton’s City Hall Power Play
Eyes on Milwaukee

Ald. Hamilton’s City Hall Power Play

Michael Murphy now finds himself on the outside looking in. Why?

Bublr Bikes Installs 60th Station!
Press Release

Bublr Bikes Installs 60th Station!

More stations coming in October

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Passes Gettelman Deal That Will Save One Building, Demolish Others
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Passes Gettelman Deal That Will Save One Building, Demolish Others

MillerCoors will demolish historic brewery structures featured prominently in their marketing.

Miller Compromises on Gettelman Brewery

Miller Compromises on Gettelman Brewery

MillerCoors only wants to demolish half of historic complex after community push back.

“Cause no harm” not part of the thinking in “Right to Carry” proposal
Press Release

“Cause no harm” not part of the thinking in “Right to Carry” proposal

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy - September 21, 2017

Eyes on Milwaukee: Bucks Top Off New Arena
Eyes on Milwaukee

Bucks Top Off New Arena

4,400-pound steel beam symbolizes the peak of new arena's construction.

Council Supports Restricting Asset Forfeiture

Council Supports Restricting Asset Forfeiture

Would only be allowed for convicted criminals. Milwaukee police opposed change.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Approves BRT Route Restrictions
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Approves BRT Route Restrictions

Learn more about what alderman Bauman claims is a route worth studying

Council approves amended bus rapid transit resolution
Press Release

Council approves amended bus rapid transit resolution

Legislation protects city taxpayers and city priorities

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Still Upset with Chief Flynn
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Still Upset with Chief Flynn

"Damn right hold it again" proclaims alderman Bob Donovan. Council wants more control of chief.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Fighting County on Rapid Transit
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Fighting County on Rapid Transit

Council committee puts restrictions on BRT project, charges county acted in bad faith.

FPC Directive on MPD pursuit policy appropriate, necessary
Press Release

FPC Directive on MPD pursuit policy appropriate, necessary

News release and related documents from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Members Blast Chief Flynn
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Members Blast Chief Flynn

Demanding more input into Flynn's decision making, they refuse to allocate federal funds.

Wisconsin Avenue utility box mural project concludes with ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 11
Press Release

Wisconsin Avenue utility box mural project concludes with ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 11

All 10 utility box murals were composed and created by Mauricio Ramirez

DNR scale-back at State Fair sad, but no surprise
Press Release

DNR scale-back at State Fair sad, but no surprise

Statement of 10th District Alderman Michael J. Murphy - June 21, 2017

Common Council to take up Paris Climate Accord measure
Press Release

Common Council to take up Paris Climate Accord measure

News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Nik Kovac

Impact of Bus Rapid Transit in Milwaukee

Impact of Bus Rapid Transit in Milwaukee

$48 million high-speed bus line projected to carry 10,000 riders daily by 2035.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Moves Forward on Highway 175
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Moves Forward on Highway 175

70 trees planted at Lisbon Ave. terminus of old Highway 41.

Murphy’s Law: Should Cops Do More High Speed Chases?
Murphy’s Law

Should Cops Do More High Speed Chases?

Common Council says yes. Chief Flynn says no. Who’s right?

Rebuilt DeBack Playground wins Mayor’s Design Award
Press Release

Rebuilt DeBack Playground wins Mayor’s Design Award

It features a 90-foot zipline, walking track, fitness equipment, permeable pavement basketball courts, challenging toddler elements, and a 10-foot tall rope dome.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Downtown Strip Club Approved
Eyes on Milwaukee

Downtown Strip Club Approved

Lawsuit settled. "Everyone and their brother" can now open a club.

Jennifer Gonda On the Hot Seat

Jennifer Gonda On the Hot Seat

New Water Works director opposed by some aldermen, and faces tough lead pipes issue.

Eyes on Milwaukee: How to Make a Pedestrian Friendly City
Eyes on Milwaukee

How to Make a Pedestrian Friendly City

New district-by-district reports on improving city for bicycling and walking.

Sherman Park housing initiative receives final Council approval
Press Release

Sherman Park housing initiative receives final Council approval

News release from Aldermen Russell W. Stamper, II and Khalif J. Rainey

Six Organizations Approved for Grants through the Milwaukee Employment/Renovation Initiative
Press Release

Six Organizations Approved for Grants through the Milwaukee Employment/Renovation Initiative

Up to 100 Tax-Foreclosed Homes Will Be Renovated in the Greater Sherman Park Area and Up to 100 Unemployed or Underemployed People will Get a Job.

Praying for the Zyszkiewicz family and hoping for justice
Press Release

Praying for the Zyszkiewicz family and hoping for justice

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy March 24, 2017

Council passes resolution creating Early Education Task Force
Press Release

Council passes resolution creating Early Education Task Force

The task force will launch a birth-to-school literacy initiative.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Felons Can Now Buy City Homes
Eyes on Milwaukee

Felons Can Now Buy City Homes

Council agrees: pay debt to society and you can buy city-owned homes.

Mayor Barrett Highlights Housing Efforts through Partnerships
Press Release

Mayor Barrett Highlights Housing Efforts through Partnerships

Ocwen’s commitment is contributing to City efforts in helping residents keep, renovate homes

St. Patrick’s Parade Returns to Downtown Milwaukee on Saturday, March 11th
Press Release

St. Patrick’s Parade Returns to Downtown Milwaukee on Saturday, March 11th

Week of Irish Entertainment Planned

City Spends Big On Housing The Poor

City Spends Big On Housing The Poor

Housing Trust Fund has spent $6.5 million since 2006 on low-income housing.

Council urges Legislature to introduce fair property tax assessment policy bill
Press Release

Council urges Legislature to introduce fair property tax assessment policy bill

"Homeowners in Wisconsin already pay 70% of the total statewide property tax levy."

Common Council approves annual Housing Trust Fund grants
Press Release

Common Council approves annual Housing Trust Fund grants

Housing Trust Fund grants totaling $526,000 will help the homeless, promote accessible housing, create jobs and help with homeowner repairs

Overwhelming support for our fellow citizens and for our ideals
Press Release

Overwhelming support for our fellow citizens and for our ideals

Milwaukee could be the first city in the U.S. to officially declare its opposition to the travel ban.

Council legislation would ban coal tar sealants in Milwaukee
Press Release

Council legislation would ban coal tar sealants in Milwaukee

The proposed ordinance is expected to be heard by the full Common Council at its Feb. 7 regular meeting at City Hall.

Common Council greenlights creation of Heroin, Opioid and Cocaine Task Force
Press Release

Common 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.

Murphy’s Law: City’s $1 Home Program a Great Idea
Murphy’s Law

City’s $1 Home Program a Great Idea

But you’d never know it, given how some of the media covered it.

City’s $1 House Program Criticized

City’s $1 House Program Criticized

Residents question why only developers can buy foreclosed homes for a dollar.

Court Watch: Four Candidates For Muni Court Judge
Court Watch

Four Candidates For Muni Court Judge

Incumbent Judge Valarie Hill faces three challengers and many questions.

It’s time for Mulchfest 2017
Press Release

It’s time for Mulchfest 2017

Mulchfest is an annual event to help keep Christmas trees out of the landfill.

MKE Plays receiving $100K gift at City Hall Dec. 22 The
Press Release

MKE Plays receiving $100K gift at City Hall Dec. 22 The

MKE Plays is a city-led initiative aimed at renovating 12 of Milwaukee’s most dilapidated playgrounds.

Court Watch: Muni Court Debts Slam One Zip Code
Court Watch

Muni Court Debts Slam One Zip Code

One fourth of residents of heavily black 53206 owe money; “shocking,” says Ald. Murphy.

Will Problem Intersection Be Fixed?

Will Problem Intersection Be Fixed?

City hopes to fix North and Lisbon and issues spotlighted by Urban Milwaukee.

Milwaukee County on pace for a record-setting year of opioid overdose deaths
Press Release

Milwaukee County on pace for a record-setting year of opioid overdose deaths

Analysis from city’s new partnership with Medical College of Wisconsin also shows growing prevalence of fentanyl in overdose cases

Campaign Cash: $1 Million In Donations to City Politicians
Campaign Cash

$1 Million In Donations to City Politicians

Our Political Contributions Tracker hits $1 million, reveals who’s giving and getting cash.

Drug mail-in initiative will make it easy to dispose of unused meds
Press Release

Drug mail-in initiative will make it easy to dispose of unused meds

Multifaceted first-of-its-kind in the nation city partnership aimed at opioid and heroin epidemic; includes CVS Pharmacy, MMSD, City of Cudahy, DOJ, DEA, US Bank and USPS

Major $2 million neighborhood improvement grant will help Sherman Park
Press Release

Major $2 million neighborhood improvement grant will help Sherman Park

Joint statement from Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II and Alderman Michael J. Murphy November 22, 2016

Smokeless tobacco banned at Miller Park, other MKE sports venues
Press Release

Smokeless tobacco banned at Miller Park, other MKE sports venues

Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy November 22, 2016

Common Council approves budget measure to boost Housing Trust Fund
Press Release

Common Council approves budget measure to boost Housing Trust Fund

Housing Trust Fund increase of $200,000 will boost supportive housing efforts

Alderman Murphy proposes smokeless tobacco ban
Press Release

Alderman Murphy proposes smokeless tobacco ban

Smokeless tobacco contains at least 28 known carcinogens and causes oral, pancreatic and esophageal cancer.

Time for DA to release the video footage of MPD fatal shooting
Press Release

Time for DA to release the video footage of MPD fatal shooting

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy October 28, 2016

Mayor Barrett’s 2017 Executive Budget Address
Press Release

Mayor Barrett’s 2017 Executive Budget Address

As Delivered

Leaked documents show waste of millions just to stir GOP voters
Press Release

Leaked documents show waste of millions just to stir GOP voters

Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy---September 16, 2016

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino Announces 2016 Heart of Canal Street Charity of Choice
Press Release

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino Announces 2016 Heart of Canal Street Charity of Choice

City of Milwaukee's MKE Plays Initiative to receive $100,000 for park renovation.

On the sudden passing of Eric Von
Press Release

On the sudden passing of Eric Von

Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

Climbing (and swinging) toward fun and hope
Press Release

Climbing (and swinging) toward fun and hope

Ribbon-cutting ceremony Sunday at 17th and Vine will open latest MKE Plays playground rebuild project

Bar Exam: Pourman’s Used To Be Sausage Factory
Bar Exam

Pourman’s Used To Be Sausage Factory

Yet it's been a tavern for more than a century. This is truly old Milwaukee.

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Approves Bus Rapid Transit
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Approves Bus Rapid Transit

Nine-mile BRT project rolls forward, but not without strategic modifications.

Back in the News: Chisholm Far More Experienced Than Opponent
Back in the News

Chisholm Far More Experienced Than Opponent

He’s handled 14 times more cases than Swanigan. He also shows up for debates.

Outrage at ambush of MPD officer & other police shootings
Press Release

Outrage at ambush of MPD officer & other police shootings

Joint Statement from All Members of the Common Council

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Panel Approves Bus Rapid Transit
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Panel Approves Bus Rapid Transit

BRT line linking Downtown and Tosa moves forward, though some decry "the rush."

Eyes on Milwaukee: Rocky Marcoux’s Job in Jeopardy
Eyes on Milwaukee

Rocky Marcoux’s Job in Jeopardy

Council majority votes no, but decision will get reconsidered. His chances look slim.

Plenty of Horne: Is Kimpton Hotel “Project of the Decade”?
Plenty of Horne

Is Kimpton Hotel “Project of the Decade”?

Kimpton Journeyman Hotel opens in Third Ward, to cheers of city and civic officials.

Taking “Home” out of Home Rule
Press Release

Taking “Home” out of Home Rule

Joint Statement from All Members of the Common Council

MKE Plays, Sarah Zarate receive recognition from Public Policy Forum
Press Release

MKE Plays, Sarah Zarate receive recognition from Public Policy Forum

News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

The Power of Common Ground

The Power of Common Ground

Nonprofit advocacy group has had huge impact on city, though some grumble about their tactics.

MKE Plays offering summer jobs to youths and providing meals at new playgrounds
Press Release

MKE Plays offering summer jobs to youths and providing meals at new playgrounds

News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

Aldermen Unveil Anti-Violence Initiative

Aldermen Unveil Anti-Violence Initiative

Hamilton and 11 other aldermen call for “holistic approach” to gun violence.

MKE Plays the recipient of one of Bucks Foundation’s first grants
Press Release

MKE Plays the recipient of one of Bucks Foundation’s first grants

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy June 6, 2016

Two New Playgrounds Opening

Two New Playgrounds Opening

Park-like play areas for kids among 12 funded by $1.9 million raised by Ald. Murphy.

House Confidential: Ald. Hamilton Lives In Depressed Area
House Confidential

Ald. Hamilton Lives In Depressed Area

He rose from poverty to become council president. Can he help his neighborhood rise, too?

City of Milwaukee Arts Board awards $217,000 to 33 arts organizations
Press Release

City of Milwaukee Arts Board awards $217,000 to 33 arts organizations

Grantees will be honored June 14 at a 4:30 p.m. reception in the atrium of the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts followed by an awards program and celebration at 5 p.m.

Heroin study funding to go before Public Safety Committee
Press Release

Heroin study funding to go before Public Safety Committee

Since 2005, Milwaukee County has seen a 495% increase in heroin-related deaths.

MKE Plays awarded prestigious NEA grant
Press Release

MKE Plays awarded prestigious NEA grant

Funding to be used to incorporate art into program’s playground reconstruction projects

MKE Plays ready to transform Marcus DeBack Playground
Press Release

MKE Plays ready to transform Marcus DeBack Playground

Friday news event will include unveiling of major improvements at playground – one of six playground upgrades planned for Milwaukee during 2016

Eyes on Milwaukee: City Hall’s Game of Thrones
Eyes on Milwaukee

City Hall’s Game of Thrones

Hail Ashanti! Ald. Hamilton's route to the Iron Throne laid bare.

Council President Hamilton announces 2016-2020 committee assignments
Press Release

Council President Hamilton announces 2016-2020 committee assignments

News release from Alderman Ashanti Hamilton

Chantia Lewis Backs Ashanti Hamilton for Common Council President
Press Release

Chantia Lewis Backs Ashanti Hamilton for Common Council President

Alderwoman Chantia Lewis is supporting Alderman Ashanti Hamilton in his bid for Common Council President.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Meet the New Boss
Eyes on Milwaukee

Meet the New Boss

Ashanti Hamilton is new Common Council president, but how did he get the votes?

Statement of 10th District Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Press Release

Statement of 10th District Alderman Michael J. Murphy

Congratulations to Alderman Ashanti Hamilton on his election as Common Council President.

Diverse coalition voices support for Alderman Hamilton as Council President
Press Release

Diverse coalition voices support for Alderman Hamilton as Council President

A diverse group of newly-elected and newly re-elected members of the Milwaukee Common Council today voiced their support for Alderman Ashanti Hamilton to serve as the next Common Council President.

Murphy’s Law: Will Murphy Lose Council Presidency?
Murphy’s Law

Will Murphy Lose Council Presidency?

Race could be wide open and Ashanti Hamilton might have surprising supporters.

Ready to Work
Press Release

Ready to Work

I am looking forward to serving the interests of district residents on Milwaukee's Common Council.

Community Forum Urges WISDOT to Scrap I-94 Expansion
Press Release

Community Forum Urges WISDOT to Scrap I-94 Expansion

Community Members & Elected Officials Call for Smarter Transportation Investments

Aldermanic Candidates Address Key Issues

Aldermanic Candidates Address Key Issues

Quizzing candidates in four districts, including big battle of Chevy Johnson vs. Sherman Morton.

Heroin Deaths Up 241% Since 2010

Heroin Deaths Up 241% Since 2010

County's increase echoes national trend, with victims mostly white. Part I of series.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Returns to Downtown Milwaukee Saturday, March 12th
Press Release

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Returns to Downtown Milwaukee Saturday, March 12th

Week of Irish Entertainment Planned

Plenty of Horne: Kenney Targets Ald. Borkowski
Plenty of Horne

Kenney Targets Ald. Borkowski

Should challenger win, would be only military veteran on Common Council.

2016 State of the City
Press Release

2016 State of the City

Hmong American Peace Academy - February 8, 2016

Milwaukee Arts Board Releases Applications for 2016 Project Grant Cycle
Press Release

Milwaukee Arts Board Releases Applications for 2016 Project Grant Cycle

MAB encourages requests for funding from not-for-profit arts organizations offering arts programs, exhibits or performances that are open and accessible to the people of Milwaukee.

Now Serving: Street Food Tapas for Brady Street
Now Serving

Street Food Tapas for Brady Street

And a new pie place for 55th and North. Both places sound yummy.

Mr. Dye’s Pies opens retail store on North Avenue in Washington Heights
Press Release

Mr. Dye’s Pies opens retail store on North Avenue in Washington Heights

Offerings include key-lime, sweet potato, pecan and Mr. Dye’s Pies’ signature Purple Monster pies.

WCD Board Says No Twice to Abele

WCD Board Says No Twice to Abele

Board won’t take over Marcus Center and won’t form committee to study idea. Might consider by 2020.

Plenty Of Horne: All Hail Our Business Improvement Districts
Plenty Of Horne

All Hail Our Business Improvement Districts

City party celebrates work of 35 BIDs, which have helped improve many city neighborhoods.

Could Marcus Center become downtown’s orphan venue?
Citation

Could Marcus Center become downtown’s orphan venue?

Community partners in Sherman Park to unveil new gateway sculpture
Press Release

Community partners in Sherman Park to unveil new gateway sculpture

News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

Wisconsin Center District postpones plans to take over Marcus Center
Supervisor Romo West Extends Gratitude for Heroin and Opiate Town Hall
Press Release

Supervisor Romo West Extends Gratitude for Heroin and Opiate Town Hall

Meeting to be Held at 5:30 p.m. Today at Italian Conference Center

Town hall meeting focused on heroin and opiates problem
Press Release

Town hall meeting focused on heroin and opiates problem

Monday, November 16, 2015, 5:30PM-8:30PM (program at 6:15PM)

Homeless will get boost from Housing Trust Fund awards
Press Release

Homeless will get boost from Housing Trust Fund awards

Housing Trust Fund grants totaling $600,000 will help the homeless, provide rehabilitation for substance abuse, create jobs and help with homeowner repairs

 
Citation

Taking the Pulse of the 2016 Milwaukee Elections

Council approves 2016 budget focused on public safety, libraries and jobs
Press Release

Council approves 2016 budget focused on public safety, libraries and jobs

News release from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Nik Kovac

Common Council set to vote Tuesday on budget
Citation

Common Council set to vote Tuesday on budget

Greater Milwaukee Foundation supports MKE Plays with special centennial gift
Press Release

Greater Milwaukee Foundation supports MKE Plays with special centennial gift

Three city playgrounds to be rebuilt through $200,000 investment; kickoff event set for Tuesday

Near West Side Business Improvement District Expansion Approved
Press Release

Near West Side Business Improvement District Expansion Approved

BID #10 to expand to cover the entire Near West Side Neighborhood

Bucks will break ground on arena in November, owners say, but when will real work begin?
Ald. Murphy seeks stronger non-relocation clause in Bucks arena lease
Citation

Ald. Murphy seeks stronger non-relocation clause in Bucks arena lease

Citation

New Arlington Heights Park Opens Soon

New Arlington Heights Park Opens Soon

Ribbon cutting set for first MKE Plays playground at Arlington Heights Park

Volunteers to build new playground Saturday at Merrill Park
Press Release

Volunteers to build new playground Saturday at Merrill Park

More than 200 volunteers will help construct the new playground on Saturday.

Murphy’s Law: Common Ground’s $30 Million Victory for City
Murphy’s Law

Common Ground’s $30 Million Victory for City

Pressure on Bucks owner Wes Edens results in Nationstar’s $30 million pledge to prevent foreclosures.

Common Council President Michael J. Murphy announces committee changes
Press Release

Common Council President Michael J. Murphy announces committee changes

Alderman Borkowski, who won the August 18 special election, was appointed by President Murphy to the Community and Economic Development Committee.

Memorial walk, stone dedication to honor Alderman Joe Dudzik
Press Release

Memorial walk, stone dedication to honor Alderman Joe Dudzik

A memorial neighborhood walk and stepping stone dedication will be held on Saturday, August 29.

Common Council will review arena plan in series of meetings beginning August 31
Press Release

Common Council will review arena plan in series of meetings beginning August 31

News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

Clarification on residency requirement in wake of Wisconsin Court of Appeals decision
Press Release

Clarification on residency requirement in wake of Wisconsin Court of Appeals decision

Joint statement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy and Mayor Tom Barrett

New Center Brings Police Closer to People

New Center Brings Police Closer to People

Press conference celebrates opening of Near West Side Waypoint, a neighborhood center.

Near West Side Neighborhood Logo Unveiled
Press Release

Near West Side Neighborhood Logo Unveiled

Launch of Near West Side website also announced

Common Council ready for substantive, public review of arena proposal
Press Release

Common Council ready for substantive, public review of arena proposal

The downtown arena proposal is nearing a full review and deliberation by the Common Council.

Eyes on Milwaukee: The Man Behind Bob Donovan
Eyes on Milwaukee

The Man Behind Bob Donovan

Steve Schumacher handles all social media for mayoral hopeful. He also has a criminal record.

Senator Baldwin steps up on train bridge issue
Press Release

Senator Baldwin steps up on train bridge issue

Statement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy July 13, 2015

Council leaders call for removal of last-minute police and fire benefit mandate in state budget
Press Release

Council leaders call for removal of last-minute police and fire benefit mandate in state budget

News release from Alds. Michael J. Murphy and Nik Kovac

Michael Murphy hits railroad for refusal to share bridge safety information
Martin Drive Residents Celebrate New Pavilion

Martin Drive Residents Celebrate New Pavilion

Rain-harvesting pavilion provides water for Martin Drive garden.

Plenty of Horne: Transit Expansion Urged
Plenty of Horne

Transit Expansion Urged

Milwaukee is far behind other cities, which will make it harder to attract young workers, experts at conference agreed.

Plenty of Horne: Celebrating the Life of Paul Jakubovich
Plenty of Horne

Celebrating the Life of Paul Jakubovich

A host of notables gathered to salute Jakubovich and the fabulous historic architecture of Milwaukee he helped protect.

Praying for police officer wounded in northwest side shooting
Press Release

Praying for police officer wounded in northwest side shooting

Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy June 19, 2015

City officials take on business leaders in basketball game to benefit Autism Speaks
Press Release

City officials take on business leaders in basketball game to benefit Autism Speaks

A team of Milwaukee public officials will face off against business leaders from around the city in a basketball game and charity event to benefit Autism Speaks on Saturday, June 13 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Journey House.

President Murphy schedules committee briefing on arena funding plan
Press Release

President Murphy schedules committee briefing on arena funding plan

Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy

President Murphy calls for special election for 11th District Council seat
Press Release

President Murphy calls for special election for 11th District Council seat

News release from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy

City Considers Lowering Penalties for Marijuana

City Considers Lowering Penalties for Marijuana

Study shows 86% of those convicted of pot possession are African American.

Bar Exam: The Only Saloon in Piggsville
Bar Exam

The Only Saloon in Piggsville

And the Valley Inn is a dandy, with a nicely-restored 1898 building and all those photos (and stories!) of floods.

Ald. Dudzik Killed in Motorcycle Crash
Citation

Ald. Dudzik Killed in Motorcycle Crash

City loses a dedicated public servant in Alderman Joe Dudzik
Press Release

City loses a dedicated public servant in Alderman Joe Dudzik

Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy May 22, 2015

Project to Improve Inner City Playgrounds Unveiled

Project to Improve Inner City Playgrounds Unveiled

Common Council President Michael Murphy leading effort to spend up to $1.9 million to upgrade 12 playgrounds.

Milwaukee Arts Board awards $213,500 to 33 organizations
Press Release

Milwaukee Arts Board awards $213,500 to 33 organizations

Steve VandeZande and Lori Bauman named Friends of the Arts

Plenty of Horne: Will Historic Building in Third Ward Be Saved?
Plenty of Horne

Will Historic Building in Third Ward Be Saved?

Third Ward review board defers decision on Historic Designation. And Milwaukee now has a Croatian sister city.

Youth Council to discuss MKE  Peace Project role
Press Release

Youth Council to discuss MKE Peace Project role

Youth are being asked to submit written entries to be considered for the project, and an array prizes are also being offered for the top entries.

Alderman Witkowski schedules report on MPD records failure
Press Release

Alderman Witkowski schedules report on MPD records failure

News release from Alderman Terry L. Witkowski

Where Will Sex Offenders Live?

Where Will Sex Offenders Live?

Only a small percent are repeat offenders. Will local restrictions on residency force state to create uniform law?

Volunteers needed for Center Street business district
Press Release

Volunteers needed for Center Street business district

Center Street Marketplace BID 39’s purpose is to improve the negative perceptions of crime and safety between the boundaries of 34th and 58th Streets on W. Center St.

Continuing the search for solutions to tragic, senseless violence
Press Release

Continuing the search for solutions to tragic, senseless violence

Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy April 16, 2015

Charter School Leaders Say Oversight Needed

Charter School Leaders Say Oversight Needed

Republican plan for Milwaukee would allow high-performing charter schools to replicate without any approving authority.

Common Ground to Wesley Edens: $30 Million for Our City
Press Release

Common Ground to Wesley Edens: $30 Million for Our City

Mayor Tom Barrett and President Michael Murphy Meet with Nationstar Mortgage to Discuss Second Wave of Foreclosure Crisis

City Plan Will Rescue The Worst Playgrounds

City Plan Will Rescue The Worst Playgrounds

City and foundation money will be spent to upgrade the 12 most deteriorated playgrounds in Milwaukee.

Alderman Murphy to welcome Irish delegation today
Press Release

Alderman Murphy to welcome Irish delegation today

Milwaukee Common Council President Michael J. Murphy will welcome a visiting delegation from Ireland on Monday, the day before St. Patrick’s Day, as they tour the City of Milwaukee on a mission to connect Irish Americans with their homeland and promote business, trade and tourism.

City of Milwaukee Career Fair is Thursday
Press Release

City of Milwaukee Career Fair is Thursday

“City service encompasses a vast array of jobs and careers, and this event provides a prime chance to discuss opportunities with representatives from several city departments.”

St. Patrick’s parade is Saturday, March 14; event dates to 1843
Press Release

St. Patrick’s parade is Saturday, March 14; event dates to 1843

The 140 units in the Irish celebration step off at noon on Wisconsin Ave. at Old World Third Street

Mayor Barrett’s 2015 State of the City Address
Press Release

Mayor Barrett’s 2015 State of the City Address

Monday, March 9th, 2015 - Alverno College

Plenty of Horne: Joe Davis Announces Plan for NBA Arena
Plenty of Horne

Joe Davis Announces Plan for NBA Arena

Actually, it wasn't really a plan. But it was a press conference.

Friday Photos: Streetcar Signing Is Quite a Celebration
Friday Photos

Streetcar Signing Is Quite a Celebration

The mayor, business leaders and pols toasted the streetcar in Cudahy's Irish Pub, with Michael Cudahy on hand.

Plenty of Horne: Milwaukeean Scores Top NYC Job
Plenty of Horne

Milwaukeean Scores Top NYC Job

Phil Walzak, who ran campaigns for Kohl, Barrett and Abele, is now a high-paid aide and good buddy of New York Mayor de Blasio.

Streetcar vote a first step down the path to Milwaukee’s future
Press Release

Streetcar vote a first step down the path to Milwaukee’s future

Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy February 10, 2015

Eyes on Milwaukee: Milwaukee Streetcar Approved
Eyes on Milwaukee

Milwaukee Streetcar Approved

After years of debate, streetcar will finally move forward. Final engineering will begin immediately, and construction by the end of the year.

Plenty of Horne: Crowd Celebrates City Birthday Party
Plenty of Horne

Crowd Celebrates City Birthday Party

Politicians, PR people and other notables schmoozed away. The best rumor was that Chief Flynn might be retiring.

Members of the Common Council Respond to Ald. Dudzik’s Remarks
Press Release

Members of the Common Council Respond to Ald. Dudzik’s Remarks

Joint Statement from members of the Common Council

Eyes on Milwaukee: Streetcar Responses Shows Wide Support
Eyes on Milwaukee

Streetcar Responses Shows Wide Support

Eleven out of 15 aldermanic districts, and 76 percent of all respondents support the proposed streetcar starter system.

Truth lies in the middle of Milwaukee Streetcar debate
Press Release

Truth lies in the middle of Milwaukee Streetcar debate

Statement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy January 21, 2015

Eyes on Milwaukee: Streetcar Approved, but Held
Eyes on Milwaukee

Streetcar Approved, but Held

Large majority votes to approve streetcar, but parliamentary maneuver puts issue on hold until February 10th meeting.

Ribbon cutting, reception to mark opening of Center Street Park ice rink
Press Release

Ribbon cutting, reception to mark opening of Center Street Park ice rink

Waterstone Bank Ice Rink at Center Street Park is open and free for the public to enjoy, nearly 25 years after the rink was closed because of budget cuts in the 1980s.

Foreclosures Block by Block: Clarke Square
Foreclosures Block by Block

Clarke Square

On just one block of W. Mineral St., the homes lost 43 percent of their value. Overcoming the foreclosure problem is a slow process.

Foreclosures Block By Block: Layton Boulevard West
Foreclosures Block By Block

Layton Boulevard West

South side neighborhood battles problem of 48 foreclosed homes.

Foreclosures Block By Block: Five Neighborhoods With Foreclosure Problems
Foreclosures Block By Block

Five Neighborhoods With Foreclosure Problems

First in a series on five city neighborhoods that still have many foreclosed and abandoned homes.

Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy December 22, 2014
Press Release

Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy December 22, 2014

"It’s important, in the wake of the district attorney’s decision today, that we recognize first and foremost the pain that continues for the family of Dontre Hamilton."

Council approves Milwaukee Promise funding to help city neighborhoods
Press Release

Council approves Milwaukee Promise funding to help city neighborhoods

News release and maps document from Alderman Ashanti Hamilton

Eyes on Milwaukee: Council Delays Streetcar Until January
Eyes on Milwaukee

Council Delays Streetcar Until January

Minority of aldermen were able to use city charter provision to delay project for one month, but a majority seems poised to approve it.

Murphy’s Law: The Bizarre Politics of Ald. Tony Zielinski
Murphy’s Law

The Bizarre Politics of Ald. Tony Zielinski

Once a hard core conservative, he’s now a Bay View liberal. Except when opposing things like the streetcar.

Plenty of Horne: Huge Turnout for East Library Opening
Plenty of Horne

Huge Turnout for East Library Opening

It was a truly an East Side event, and a crowd with tons of notables celebrated history in the making.

Amendments double funding for STRONG Homes Loan program
Press Release

Amendments double funding for STRONG Homes Loan program

News release from Alds. Michael J. Murphy and Robert Bauman

Eyes on Milwaukee: Barrett Moving Forward With Streetcar
Eyes on Milwaukee

Barrett Moving Forward With Streetcar

If Common Council approves at December 16 meeting, construction would start in late 2015, and Milwaukee would follow in footsteps of many other cities.

Heroin and Opiates 101 – A Neighborhood & Community Meeting
Press Release

Heroin and Opiates 101 – A Neighborhood & Community Meeting

President Murphy hosting key meeting next week targeting parents, loved ones

Common Council finds opportunities for efficiencies in 2015 approved budget
Press Release

Common Council finds opportunities for efficiencies in 2015 approved budget

News release from Alds. Michael J. Murphy and Nik Kovac

Milwaukee Bans Financial Inducements by Charter Schools
Press Release

Milwaukee Bans Financial Inducements by Charter Schools

City of Milwaukee charter schools are now prohibited from giving money or gifts as incentives to enroll new students.

Financial Planning Day offers free financial counseling & workshops
Press Release

Financial Planning Day offers free financial counseling & workshops

Milwaukee Financial Planning Day on Saturday, October 25.

Job fair offers employment, experience working on new NWM tower
Press Release

Job fair offers employment, experience working on new NWM tower

Job fair offers employment, experience working on new NWM tower

RICH program, selling city-owned foreclosed homes for $1, receives unanimous Council support
Press Release

RICH program, selling city-owned foreclosed homes for $1, receives unanimous Council support

ews release from Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

New location for Saz’s Catering opening in Walker’s Point
Press Release

New location for Saz’s Catering opening in Walker’s Point

Saz’s Catering has announced that they will move their operations to 201 W. Walker St.

News Conference: Ald. Coggs, President Murphy invite residents to foreclosure prevention session
Press Release

News Conference: Ald. Coggs, President Murphy invite residents to foreclosure prevention session

News release from Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs and Alderman Michael J. Murphy

University Club renovation the first to make use of PACE energy efficiency funding
Press Release

University Club renovation the first to make use of PACE energy efficiency funding

An iconic building in downtown Milwaukee with more than 85 years of history will soon be brought up-to-date with cost-saving, energy-efficient utilities

Nonprofits can buy city-owned foreclosures for $1, additional marketing to continue
Press Release

Nonprofits can buy city-owned foreclosures for $1, additional marketing to continue

Qualifying nonprofit organizations will be allowed to purchase certain cityowned, tax-foreclosed properties for one dollar.

Council members target enrollment incentives offered by charter schools
Press Release

Council members target enrollment incentives offered by charter schools

News release from Alds. Nik Kovac and Michael J. Murphy

Hamilton family and community deserve answers soon
Press Release

Hamilton family and community deserve answers soon

Statement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy September 15, 2014

Plenty of Horne: City Leaders Plot New Urban Placemaking Effort
Plenty of Horne

City Leaders Plot New Urban Placemaking Effort

With some creative use of grant money, the Greater Milwaukee Committee is helping neighborhoods update their image by ‘Urban Placemaking’

Eyes on Milwaukee: MIAD Opens New Residence Hall, Celebrates 40 Years
Eyes on Milwaukee

MIAD Opens New Residence Hall, Celebrates 40 Years

Half-birthday bash, half-ribbon cutting, the ceremony unveiled MIAD's new six-story, Third Ward building.

New business continues “green” trend at 51st and Blue Mound
Press Release

New business continues “green” trend at 51st and Blue Mound

Story Hill BKC, a wine bar and spirits shop serving an array of food and drink options, is opening fully today.

Work coming next week for stretch of heavily-traveled west side roadway
Press Release

Work coming next week for stretch of heavily-traveled west side roadway

The stretch of N. Hawley Rd./N. 55th St. from W. Vliet St. to W. Lisbon Ave. will be closed to all traffic during high-impact paving work that will begin on Monday, July 28.

Council approves minimum hourly wage ordinance
Press Release

Council approves minimum hourly wage ordinance

Joint news release and file from Alderman Hamilton, Alderman Kovac and Alderwoman Coggs

Eyes on Milwaukee: Uber and Lyft Legalized in Milwaukee
Eyes on Milwaukee

Uber and Lyft Legalized in Milwaukee

Taxis for anyone who wants to drive one. Uber and Lyft are legal. And someone will probably sue the city to stop this.

UWM Alumni Association Announces 2014 Alumni Award Recipients
Press Release

UWM Alumni Association Announces 2014 Alumni Award Recipients

Alumni and University friends recognized for their achievements and commitment to UWM

Plenty of Horne: Gimbel Gets Reappointed to Wisconsin Center Board
Plenty of Horne

Gimbel Gets Reappointed to Wisconsin Center Board

Will continue after 3 decades as board chair! Did mayor and governor swap appointments to make this happen?

Milwaukee Public Library Hires Sam McGovern-Rowen to Manage Library Development Project
Press Release

Milwaukee Public Library Hires Sam McGovern-Rowen to Manage Library Development Project

Sam McGovern-Rowen will oversee the $21.5 million library branch redevelopment program.

Regional Symposium on Heroin/Opiates Addiction is Wednesday
Press Release

Regional Symposium on Heroin/Opiates Addiction is Wednesday

Southeast Wisconsin Regional Heroin/Opiates Symposium will be held on Wednesday, June 4.

A less than adequate response on oversaturation of sex offenders in Milwaukee
Press Release

A less than adequate response on oversaturation of sex offenders in Milwaukee

Statement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy May 27, 2014

Council President Murphy and Alderman Stamper issue statements on girl’s shooting
Press Release

Council President Murphy and Alderman Stamper issue statements on girl’s shooting

The jointly issued statements below from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Russell W. Stamper II address the Clarke Street Elementary School playground shooting Wednesday

Murphy’s Law: Four Plans to Save the Bucks
Murphy’s Law

Four Plans to Save the Bucks

But can any of the plans create the new NBA arena they need?

Proposal would abolish taxi cab cap, allow mobile “rideshare” services
Press Release

Proposal would abolish taxi cab cap, allow mobile “rideshare” services

The new legislation will be introduced at the meeting of the Public Transportation Review Board that is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. tomorrow, May 9, in room 301-B of City Hall.

Time for Milwaukee to stop leaving money on the table
Press Release

Time for Milwaukee to stop leaving money on the table

At news conference, city leaders and IRS to tout importance of claiming Earned Income Tax Credit

Eyes on Milwaukee: We Hate This Boston Store Subsidy!
Eyes on Milwaukee

We Hate This Boston Store Subsidy!

Common Council members all complain about the TIF for Boston Store, then pass it 11-3.

The State of Politics: New Champion of the City
The State of Politics

New Champion of the City

New council president Michael Murphy is bluntly honest about state politicians in an interview.

Arts Projects Coming to Wisconsin Avenue

Arts Projects Coming to Wisconsin Avenue

Greater Milwaukee Committee bringing two major art installations to Downtown and the Beer Line Bicycle Trail.

Vliet Street Business Association Announces Winners of First Annual Business Awards
Press Release

Vliet Street Business Association Announces Winners of First Annual Business Awards

The Vliet Street Business Association recently announced the winners their first annual Business Awards at a happy hour sponsored by LISC Milwaukee and hosted by Meritage (5921 W. Vliet) on March 10.

SB324 approval wrong for Milwaukee, wrong for voters
Press Release

SB324 approval wrong for Milwaukee, wrong for voters

Statement of Common Council President Michael J. Murphy

Plenty of Horne: Wisconsin Center’s Leadership Adrift?
Plenty of Horne

Wisconsin Center’s Leadership Adrift?

Many of the board's seats are either vacant or held by legally unqualified individuals.

The State of Politics: Walker Delays On Three Tough Issues
The State of Politics

Walker Delays On Three Tough Issues

No decision before election on new Bucks arena, proposed Kenosha casino and how to fund new highway construction.

Surveillance camera grant program will target businesses, commercial corridors
Press Release

Surveillance camera grant program will target businesses, commercial corridors

Launch news conference set for Friday on city’s near south side

Mayor Tom Barrett’s 2014 State of the City Address
Press Release

Mayor Tom Barrett’s 2014 State of the City Address

Milwaukee February 24, 2014 As Prepared for Delivery

Under new configuration, Finance and Personnel Committee will continue precedent of fiscal responsibility
Press Release

Under new configuration, Finance and Personnel Committee will continue precedent of fiscal responsibility

I would like to thank Common Council President Michael Murphy for entrusting me with the responsibility of chairing the City of Milwaukee’s Finance and Personnel Committee.

Common Council President Murphy announces election for 15th District
Press Release

Common Council President Murphy announces election for 15th District

The start date for circulating nomination papers was February 11.

Plenty of Horne: Murphy Announces New Committee Assignments
Plenty of Horne

Murphy Announces New Committee Assignments

The changes aren't radical but big winner is Ald. Kovac, who becomes chair of Finance and vice-chair of Steering and Rules.

Strengths, experience reflected in changes in Common Council Committee Appointments
Press Release

Strengths, experience reflected in changes in Common Council Committee Appointments

President Murphy has appointed Alderman Nik Kovac to succeed him as the new chair of the Finance and Personnel Committee.

Statement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy
Press Release

Statement from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy

I deeply appreciate and am greatly humbled by the trust and confidence entrusted in me by my colleagues.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Betting on the Common Council
Eyes on Milwaukee

Betting on the Common Council

Haven't got your fix with the Super Bowl? Gamble with friends on who will be the next council president.

Plenty of Horne: Huge Turnout for City Birthday Party
Plenty of Horne

Huge Turnout for City Birthday Party

Lots of politicians, journalists, lobbyists and others glad-handed each other and drank free beer to salute the city's 168th birthday.

Alderman Murphy on announcement by Council President Willie Hines
Press Release

Alderman Murphy on announcement by Council President Willie Hines

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy January 31, 2014

City of Milwaukee Artist of the Year
Press Release

City of Milwaukee Artist of the Year

Evelyn Patricia Terry, an artist, educator, and curator, and Barbara Leigh, co-founder of what has become the Milwaukee Public Theatre, were named Artists of the Year, the Milwaukee Arts Board announced today.

City’s pension fund outperforms state, Milwaukee County funds in 2013
Press Release

City’s pension fund outperforms state, Milwaukee County funds in 2013

The City of Milwaukee Employes’ Retirement System (CMERS) pension fund’s preliminary year-end results show the fund earned a return of 19.6%, gross of fees.

Mayor Barrett Announces Stolen Thumb Drive Recovered
Press Release

Mayor Barrett Announces Stolen Thumb Drive Recovered

Jump drive with confidential city employee information found by Milwaukee police

Spotlight on pension crises in other cities provides perspective
Press Release

Spotlight on pension crises in other cities provides perspective

Significant pension crises in Chicago and Detroit provide an opportunity for the City of Milwaukee to reflect on how it has managed to achieve the top-rated public fund (Pew Charitable Trusts report, dated January 2013) in the U.S., according to Alderman Michael J. Murphy.

Bike-sharing program moves forward with committee approval
Press Release

Bike-sharing program moves forward with committee approval

A public bike-sharing system for the City of Milwaukee picked up the endorsement of a key Common Council committee on Wednesday.

City leaders are right to crack down on duty disability retirement abuse
Press Release

City leaders are right to crack down on duty disability retirement abuse

Statement of Alderman Joe Davis, Sr. December 2, 2013

Common Council approves Housing Trust Fund grant award projects
Press Release

Common Council approves Housing Trust Fund grant award projects

Housing Trust Fund grants totaling $406,000 for affordable and supportive housing projects

Milwaukee’s Common Council Allows 100 More Taxis on City Streets
Press Release

Milwaukee’s Common Council Allows 100 More Taxis on City Streets

City responds to drivers’ court victory, but keeps unconstitutional cap on cabs. Lottery will determine who gets to go into business.

Priorities and services maintained in Council-approved 2014 budget
Press Release

Priorities and services maintained in Council-approved 2014 budget

The 2014 amended city budget approved today by the Milwaukee Common Council addresses key priorities and maintains quality city services at current levels.

Milwaukee budget for 2014 gets high marks in Public Policy Forum report
Press Release

Milwaukee budget for 2014 gets high marks in Public Policy Forum report

The non-partisan Public Policy Forum is giving the City of Milwaukee positive marks for the proposed 2014 city budget.

News conference will highlight options available at Foreclosure Prevention Event
Press Release

News conference will highlight options available at Foreclosure Prevention Event

The City of Milwaukee joins Take Root Milwaukee to invite people area residents who are facing foreclosure to a special event this week.

Murphy’s Law: Republican Dog & Pony Show
Murphy’s Law

Republican Dog & Pony Show

Legislators Vos and Darling tour city but offer no solutions. So why did they come?

New 4-Story Apartment Complex for Brewers’ Hill

New 4-Story Apartment Complex for Brewers’ Hill

A 53-unit apartment building is proposed at a controversial site on Holton Street.

PACE energy efficiency initiative for buildings moves forward
Press Release

PACE energy efficiency initiative for buildings moves forward

Building on the success of the Me2 program, the City of Milwaukee is developing new financial resources to help building owners finance energy efficiency improvements on their properties and improvements that save energy dollars, create better buildings, create local jobs and improve the environment.

City of Milwaukee to Defend State Constitution
Press Release

City of Milwaukee to Defend State Constitution

Joint statement of Mayor Tom Barrett, Common Council President Willie L. Hines, Jr. and Alderman Michael J. Murphy

Legislators think they know what’s best for Milwaukee neighborhoods
Press Release

Legislators think they know what’s best for Milwaukee neighborhoods

Statement from Alderman Michael J. Murphy June 20, 2013

Milwaukee Recognized as ‘Playful City USA’ Community
Press Release

Milwaukee Recognized as ‘Playful City USA’ Community

Sign unveiling event Monday will feature Alderman Murphy, Mayor Barrett and MPS representative

City pension changes projected to save more than $90 million
Press Release

City pension changes projected to save more than $90 million

Pension changes approved today by the full Common Council will save the city approximately $93 million over the next 20 years, Alderman Michael J. Murphy said.

Celebrate Bike to Work Week with Mayor Tom Barrett, Alderpersons, and The Wisconsin Bike Federation
City Nonprofits Avoid Residency Debate

City Nonprofits Avoid Residency Debate

One community leader castigates non-profits for not taking a stand on state proposal to end city residency requirement.

Murphy’s Law: Myths About a New NBA Arena
Murphy’s Law

Myths About a New NBA Arena

In their zeal to build new, publicly-funded arena, proponents are misleading the community.

New report casts doubts on sports venues’ economic impact claims
Press Release

New report casts doubts on sports venues’ economic impact claims

Alderman Murphy believes the report will be a valuable tool in the upcoming debate over the future of Milwaukee’s BMO Harris Bradley Center.

Photo Gallery: Politics & Poetry II
Photo Gallery

Politics & Poetry II

Aldermen join seasoned poets to tout today's election and celebrate the memory of poet Anita Brooks.

Referendum on same-day registration a chance to make residents’ voices heard
Press Release

Referendum on same-day registration a chance to make residents’ voices heard

Joint Statement from members of the Common Council

Important information from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Press Release

Important information from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that's of critical importance to our future.

Attack on residency continues Governor’s “divide and conquer” strategy
Press Release

Attack on residency continues Governor’s “divide and conquer” strategy

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy February 25, 2013

Murphy’s Law: Journal Sentinel Story Doesn’t Hold Water
Murphy’s Law

Journal Sentinel Story Doesn’t Hold Water

Story slams Milwaukee water utility though it’s actually cheaper than others in the region.

Milwaukee Arts Board recognizes Outstanding Artists of the Year
Press Release

Milwaukee Arts Board recognizes Outstanding Artists of the Year

The Milwaukee Arts Board will honor the recipients of its Outstanding Artists of the Year award on Tuesday, March 12, 2013.

Freeway Expansion Could Move South

Freeway Expansion Could Move South

I-94 could be straightened to run through current Miller Park parking lots. Brewers are open to this option.

Double-Decker Freeway For Milwaukee?

Double-Decker Freeway For Milwaukee?

Rising 40 feet high, it could be destructive to the Story Hill neighborhood.

Public Service Commission loses sight of the public interest in power line decision
Press Release

Public Service Commission loses sight of the public interest in power line decision

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy March 1, 2013

Attack on residency continues Governor’s “divide and conquer” strategy
Press Release

Attack on residency continues Governor’s “divide and conquer” strategy

Governor Walker’s state budget proposal to end residency requirements for municipalities statewide is one of the most serious and direct attacks on local control and local governance in the history of the State of Wisconsin.

Mayor Barrett’s 2013 State of the City Address
Press Release

Mayor Barrett’s 2013 State of the City Address

Monday, February 25, 2013, Pritzlaff Building

Plenty of Horne: Every Politician in Town
Plenty of Horne

Every Politician in Town

Well, not quite, but the City's Birthday Party had a big turnout of politicians and insiders.

The City Milwaukee Wins National Praise for the Management of its Pension System
Press Release

The City Milwaukee Wins National Praise for the Management of its Pension System

Mayor Barrett Congratulates Fellow City Leaders for the Honor

None better than city’s pension system, national report shows
Press Release

None better than city’s pension system, national report shows

The City of Milwaukee Employes’ Retirement System (CMERS) is rated at the top of city pension systems in the U.S., according to a report just released by the Pew Charitable Trusts.

Council members applaud 911 cell phone shift vote by County Board
Press Release

Council members applaud 911 cell phone shift vote by County Board

The Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors today approved a compromise plan that will allow Milwaukee Police Department dispatchers to begin handling all 911 cell phone calls that originate in the city – a cooperative move that will save taxpayer dollars.

Double-decker freeway, annexations among concerning options at I-94 hearings
Press Release

Double-decker freeway, annexations among concerning options at I-94 hearings

Double-decker freeway, annexations among concerning options at I-94 hearings.

Common Council Approves Picks for Housing Trust Fund Awards
Press Release

Common Council Approves Picks for Housing Trust Fund Awards

A total of $830,391 in Housing Trust Fund grants will help the homeless, low-income renters and neighborhoods affected by oreclosures

Common Council makes cuts in approved budget, preserves property tax relief
Press Release

Common Council makes cuts in approved budget, preserves property tax relief

The 2013 amended city budget approved today by the Milwaukee Common Council provides some property tax relief for residents, while holding steady on crucial city services.

CWNA annual meeting Thursday to feature elected official town hall
Press Release

CWNA annual meeting Thursday to feature elected official town hall

Aldermen Michael J. Murphy and Jim Bohl invite residents to the Annual Meeting of the Capitol West Neighborhood Association at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 18, 2012 at the St. Matthew Evangelical Lutheran Church Hall.

Common Council members call for County to codify changes in Medical Examiner’s procedures
Press Release

Common Council members call for County to codify changes in Medical Examiner’s procedures

Several Council members met with the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office on Friday (Sept. 28) to discuss concerns related to the Derek Williams case.

Common Council to deliberate on Mayor’s proposed 2013 City Budget
Press Release

Common Council to deliberate on Mayor’s proposed 2013 City Budget

Today, Mayor Tom Barrett delivered a 2013 proposed executive budget to the Milwaukee Common Council that provides some relief to property taxpayers, includes no employee layoffs and maintains police staffing, but also includes an agreement to have the city absorb police patrols in parks and 911 communications duties from the county.

U.S. Attorney’s insight needed in Williams death investigation
Press Release

U.S. Attorney’s insight needed in Williams death investigation

We are respectfully requesting that the office of the U.S. Attorney conduct an investigation into the case of Derek Williams, who died last year while in the custody of Milwaukee police.

State funds for BMO/Harris Bradley Center helpful; others could also be helped
Press Release

State funds for BMO/Harris Bradley Center helpful; others could also be helped

In my view, I do not see this move as a flip flop on the part of the Governor .

Common Council Sets Standards for Elementary School Playgrounds
Press Release

Common Council Sets Standards for Elementary School Playgrounds

The Milwaukee Common Council today passed a measure that will require all new elementary schools in the city to provide a minimum amount of safe, open play space to help children stay healthy and active.

Candidates should make position known on Disclose Act
Press Release

Candidates should make position known on Disclose Act

American politics today is bursting at the seams with money, and most of it is donated anonymously. That lack of transparency is troubling to Alderman Michael J. Murphy and to members of the Common Council.

Tragedy in Oak Creek
Press Release

Tragedy in Oak Creek

Joint Statement from Members of the Common Council

Preliminary Budget Hearing Invitation
Press Release

Preliminary Budget Hearing Invitation

The City of Milwaukee will hold a 2013 Preliminary Budget Hearing to ensure the 2013 City of Milwaukee Budget addresses the needs of our community. Mayor Tom Barrett, Finance and Personnel Committee Chair, Alderman Michael Murphy, Budget Director Mark Nicolini and budget staff will provide information regarding the budget planning process and give attendees an opportunity to share input on City services. City residents are encouraged to attend. Monday, August 13, 2012 6:00-7:30 p.m. Zeidler Municipal Building 841 North Broadway, Rm. 102

A Really Rocky Road

A Really Rocky Road

Opponents succeed in delaying the reappointment of DCD Commissioner Rocky Marcoux, sending a message to Marcoux and Mayor Barrett.

Bike-sharing program pedals to Public Works Committee
Press Release

Bike-sharing program pedals to Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will discuss a resolution Wednesday (July 11) to create a bicycle-sharing program in Milwaukee that if approved could start up in spring 2013.

Murphy’s Law: Rocky Road
Murphy’s Law

Rocky Road

Some aldermen want to dump DCD head Rocky Marcoux, but Mayor Barrett disagrees.

Watching the Watchdog – Joint Statement from Members of the Common Council
Press Release

Watching the Watchdog – Joint Statement from Members of the Common Council

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s recent investigations into the police department have misled the public about important facts relevant to the safety of our community.

Event Wednesday will tout summer safety in the city
Press Release

Event Wednesday will tout summer safety in the city

Alderman Michael J. Murphy will join representatives from the Milwaukee Police Department and the Milwaukee Fire Department to encourage safe summer activities for children. The event will take place tomorrow at 12:30 p.m. at the entrance to Washington Park Pool, 1859 N. 40th St.

Mayor Barrett Encourages City Employees To Say “Not Me” To Diabetes
Press Release

Mayor Barrett Encourages City Employees To Say “Not Me” To Diabetes

The City of Milwaukee is among the first public sector employers in the state to offer employees the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program, a 12-month lifestyle behavior intervention designed especially for people with prediabetes, the clinical precursor for type 2 diabetes. To screen its employees at the highest risk for diabetes, the City will host UnitedHealthcare’s 18-wheel mobile testing clinic at City Hall.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Tour the Talgo Trains You Might Never Ride
Eyes on Milwaukee

Tour the Talgo Trains You Might Never Ride

Downtown block parties are coming, use of bike racks on MCTS buses doubles year-over-year, explore the Historic Concordia neighborhood with HMI, UWM gets a zoning change, The Moderne is meeting hiring requirements, and kids can ride free on the Amtrak Hiawatha this summer.

Has the Clock Run Out for the Sydney Hih?

Has the Clock Run Out for the Sydney Hih?

The historic Sydney Hih building, which city officials had intended to tear down, may have been saved for another day, due to a legalistic maneuver by alderman and attorney Bob Baumann at a Tuesday meeting of the Common Council’s Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee.

Eyes on Milwaukee: Hines for Mayor, Coggs for Life, Thomas for 34%, and More City Politics
Eyes on Milwaukee

Hines for Mayor, Coggs for Life, Thomas for 34%, and More City Politics

Welcome to the seventh installment of Eyes on Milwaukee. This week the focus is all on City of Milwaukee elected officials following yesterday's election. I explore the likelihood that Willie Hines runs for Mayor, how the new Common Council will resemble the old Common Council, the wide disparity in vote totals between districts, Bob Donovan winning the war, the shocking number of votes Johnny Thomas got, and Spencer Coggs' new job.

Zoning Committee Votes for Approval of MSOE Parking Garage

Zoning Committee Votes for Approval of MSOE Parking Garage

MSOE's $28 million, 750 stall parking garage proposal received approval at the February 22nd, 2012 meeting of the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee meeting.

Key Riverwalk Project Held at Committee

Key Riverwalk Project Held at Committee

Most of Milwaukee's riverwalk system has been built as a public-private partnership as new developments occurred, but a file before yesterday's Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development committee proposed that the City of Milwaukee fund a short section of the system. City staff determined that an 80-foot stretch along Erie St., between River Renaissance and Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, is unlikely to see new development in the foreseeable future.

Milwaukee Moves Forward!

Milwaukee Moves Forward!

Council committee moves forward with the streetcar.

Marriott Hotel Project Wins Appeal on 3-2 Vote at Zoning Committee

Marriott Hotel Project Wins Appeal on 3-2 Vote at Zoning Committee

At yesterday's meeting of the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee Jackson Street Management LLC won an appeal of the Historic Preservation Commission's ruling regarding their request to demolish five buildings within the East Side Commercial Historic District to make way for a new Marriott Hotel.

Photo Gallery: Group Unveils Temporary Public Art on Capitol Drive
Photo Gallery

Group Unveils Temporary Public Art on Capitol Drive

To fill the gap between the site's multi-year transformation from brownfield to productive industrial space, the 30th Street Industrial Corridor Corporation and Business Improvement District #37 invited IN:SITE to create art installations that generate interest in the area.

Downtown Plan Gains Approval at Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee

Downtown Plan Gains Approval at Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee

Department of City Development staff presented the Downtown Plan Update at the September 15th 2010 Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee meeting. Similar to the City Plan Commission meeting staff presented the overall themes and the eight catalytic projects, which are geared towards increasing density and connectivity throughout downtown, whiles creating a sense of place.

The Moderne Project Held for Special Committee Meeting

The Moderne Project Held for Special Committee Meeting

The Moderne, if approved, would be located at 1141 N. Old World Third St.

Park East Art Gallery

Park East Art Gallery

The Park East corridor is temporarily filled with art, and it’s well worth your time to check out. Approved by the Milwaukee Arts Board, the temporary installation draws attention to the history and unique character of the land formerly occupied by a freeway. Alderman Michael Murphy, chair of the Milwaukee Arts Board, held a press conference today to officially open the project to the public.

City to Use Eminent Domain?

City to Use Eminent Domain?

This meeting had a couple of topics of particular interest, the use of eminent domain, and TIF policy.

M.O.R.E. – Common Council March 25th, 2009 Meeting Notes

M.O.R.E. – Common Council March 25th, 2009 Meeting Notes

The M.O.R.E ordinance was the most widely debated action taken at this Common Council meeting.

M.O.R.E. Ordinance Approved by F&P Committee

M.O.R.E. Ordinance Approved by F&P Committee

The controversial M.O.R.E ordinance which had been sent to committee at the previous Common Council meeting was further debated at this Finance & Personnel Committee meeting.

City Moves Forward With Water Initiative

City Moves Forward With Water Initiative

Planning for the future of Milwaukee as the Fresh Coast appears to be moving ahead.

Contentious M.O.R.E Debate Continues

Contentious M.O.R.E Debate Continues

The controversial M.O.R.E ordinance was the primary item of discussion at this meeting of the Common Council.  This ordinance proposed new requirements related to hiring City of Milwaukee residents, the utilization of emerging small businesses, and the paying of prevailing wages for all City of Milwaukee projects and private developments that receive $1 million or more in TIF funding.  It was widely believed that this ordinance was going to be put to a vote of the full Common Council today, which made Alderman Michael Murphy‘s motion to send this file to the Finance & Personnel Committee all that more contentious.  Through the discussion it became evident that this file had originally been scheduled to appear the Finance & Personnel Committee but was removed at the last minute because of a legal technicality.  Immediately prior to the Common Council meeting a fiscal note that indicated the ordinance would require a number of full-time employees to manage the new programs arrived which made the motion to send it back to committee both legal and appropriate.  Although he indicated he would likely support the ordinance Alderman Murhpy argued that “basic issues, and basic questions are just not being addressed” and that “one needs to take the time to do it right.” At first the sponsors of the legislation were surprised and took the motion as a delaying tactic.  They argued that the process had been fully transparent and didn’t require any further delay.  Alderman Ashanti Hamilton stated that “I think the public has been engaged and involved in the creation of this ordinance.”  During the discussion Alderman Nik Kovac piped in saying “I believe in process, I campaigned on process”, but he then indicated he didn’t believe sending it back to committee would change anything.  In fact he said “the controversy today will be the same in 21 days.”  Alderman Joe Davis fired away at the implication that not enough questions had been asked or that there wasn’t enough transparency to the process contending that “I made a point to schedule a special meeting to achieve transparency.” Initial supporters of the motion argued more questions needed to be asked and that it would be appropriate to send it back to the Finance & Personnel Committee.  Specifically, Alderman Terry Witkowski supported the motion in an attempt to gather more information saying “I do support sending this back to committee, this was a constantly evolving piece of legislation.”  In an attempt to bring a bit of levity to the debate Alderman Jim Bohl joked “I’m feeling a Rodney King moment, why can’t we just all get along here?” Then he defended Alderman Murphy’s motives and attempted to call the question.  Oddly on this specific motion the ability to call the question isn’t an allowed so the debate continued.  Alderman Murphy responded to the criticisms by stating “I do feel I was attacked unfairly” and he again attempted to clarify his position stating that “the fact is somebody, literally two minutes before the meeting handing you […]

Committee Not Happy With Zoo Interchange Plan

Committee Not Happy With Zoo Interchange Plan

The Wisconsin DOT presented the most recent plans for the reconstruction of the Zoo Interchange. The project team argued that because of the age of the interchange, number of accidents, and predicted congestion that the interchange needs to be rebuilt and widened.  They presented multiple options, all of which included the relocation of at least 13 residential homes, one business and would cut the parking lot at State Fair in half.  It was pointed out that the under the plans now being considered there will be no impact to the Honey Creek Business Park.  The design includes additional lanes and new frontage roads, referred to as Texas U-Turns, that essentially double the footprint of the highway.  Alderman Bob Bauman expressed that the Wisconsin DOT seems to always push for freeway expansion saying that “no one ever talks about the no build option” and that “this a stealth widening of the Milwaukee freeway system”. In response to a series of questions and comments regarding transit options, Ms. Brown, from the Wisconsin DOT, responded that “transit is not considered as part of the construction of the interchange”.  Alderman Murphy expressed the committee’s belief that the Wisconsin DOT has ignored multi-modal options at the expense of the City of Milwaukee saying that “the way they (Wisconsin DOT) set up this planning they specifically excluded it”.  Wisconsin DOT staff repeatedly pointed to SEWRPC’s planning as their guiding direction and Ms. Brown reiterated “that (rail) is not an option given the schedule and time frame”.  Near the end of the meeting Alderman Bauman summed up the committee’s message to the Wisconsin DOT saying “carry back the message you don’t have any happy campers”.

Common Council Retains Five Member Firefighter Crews

Common Council Retains Five Member Firefighter Crews

The most notably items on the agenda were the Common Council's actions regarding Mayor Barrett's vetoes.

East Side Apartment Proposal Held by Committee

East Side Apartment Proposal Held by Committee

New Land Enterprises was before the committee requesting a change in zoning to construct a 5-story apartment building to be located on North Farwell Avenue and East Kenilworth.

Committee Requests Federal Government Not Re-certify SEWRPC

Committee Requests Federal Government Not Re-certify SEWRPC

Alderman Bauman lead the efforts to bring forward a resolution that would have the City of Milwaukee request that Milwaukee County withdraw from the Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission ("SEWRPC").

Goll Mansion Project – Common Council October 7th, 2008 Meetings Notes

Goll Mansion Project – Common Council October 7th, 2008 Meetings Notes

Although only briefly discussed, the most controversial item approved today was the change in zoning for New Land Enterprises' 26-story condominium tower to be built behind the historic Goll Mansion.

Common Council Approves New Berlin Water Deal

Common Council Approves New Berlin Water Deal

This meeting included three highly debated resolutions, the “Wheel Tax”, the 9to5 direct legislation regarding sick pay, the water sale to New Berlin and the retirement of one of the most highly respected government officials.  Marty Collins the outgoing Commissioner of the Department of Neighborhood Services gave a heartfelt farewell speech stating “I’m proud to be a public servant”.  Then he left with some suggestions and encouraged the Common Council and city staff to promote creativity to find solutions.When the resolution known as the “Wheel Tax” came up for discussion Alderman Jim Witkowiak offered an amendment that would cap the fee at $20 for the duration of the current Common Council.  Although Alderman Michael Murphy explained that this amendment wasn’t meaningful because it could simply be overridden with a resolution in the future.  Another amendment was offered by Alderman Joe Dudzik that would allow a portion of the vehicle registration fee to support street maintenance.  Again it was suggested that this amendment had little value because it will be up to the budgetary process to determine that actual spending.  Both of these amendments and the overall resolution passed with a veto proof majority and will no go to the Mayor for action.Another hot button resolution was the piece of direct legislation brought forward by the group 9to5, National Association of Women by obtaining 42,000 signatures in sixty days.  The intention of the resolution is to force employers within the City of Milwaukee to give all employees paid sick time.  Alderman Bob Donovan spoke out against the resolution saying that “this resolution may end up hurting the very same people it is intended to help”.  Alderman Jim Bohl also expressed his concerns that this would resolution hurt business and that “if jobs leave this community there are no benefits to be had”.  The Common Council had two options regarding this resolution, either adopt it immediately without changes or let it go to binding referendum.  The Common Council voted to let it go to referendum.The most hotly debated issue of the day was the proposed water sale and the associated intergovernmental agreement with New Berlin.  Alderman Robert Bauman initially questioned the legality of the water sale saying that his concerns were “beyond the question of policy” because this transaction was outside the bounds of what the Common Council had approved in December of 2007.  He questioned if the sale was proper because the original authorization to negotiate was in reference to an area of New Berlin within the current Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (“MMSD”) service area while this transaction included a portion of New Berlin that is planned to be in the MMSD service area sometime in the future.  Alderman Murphy agreed that “the department made a mistake without a doubt” but that the City of Milwaukee needs to move forward with this transaction or New Berlin may find another solution.The intergovernmental agreement with New Berlin included a non-compete clause and a $1.5 million payment to the City of Milwaukee.  The non-compete […]

Public Works Committee Approves New Berlin Water Deal

Public Works Committee Approves New Berlin Water Deal

This meeting’s highlights included the proposed water sale to New Berlin and the reappointment of Jeff Mantes to the Commissioner the Department of Public Works.The water sale involved two separate resolutions.  Resolution 080012 would handle the actual water sale and resolution 080011 will enact an intergovernmental agreement contingent on the water sale.  Water sales are regulated by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (“PSC“) which sets the wholesale price of water and oversees water contracts.  Because of this any additional constraints beyond the sales agreement had to handled in an intergovernmental agreement.  This intergovernmental agreement included a non-compete clause between the cities as well as a one time $1.5 million payment to the City of Milwaukee from New Berlin to offset some of the potential economic impact associated with this transaction.  Further as this agreement proposes the sale of water outside of the Great Lakes Basin it follows the requirements set for within the Great Lakes Compact.New Berlin is seeking to obtain the additional water source to support the middle third of the city, to large extent because of high levels of the radium existing in their water and the depletion of their aquifer.  During the discussion it was brought up, that if New Berlin isn’t able to purchase water from the City of Milwaukee that New Berlin may spend $4 million on an upgrade to their facilities or pursue purchasing water from Oak Creek.  Both of these options were potentially more expensive for New Berlin than purchasing from the City of Milwaukee but Jack F. Chiovatero, the Mayor of New Berlin, indicated the pressing need by stating that “I wouldn’t be sitting in front off you if I didn’t have the radium issue”.Alderman Robert Bauman repeatedly made the point that New Berlin fails to meet the City of Milwaukee’s guidelines for water sales. These guidelines are based on access to mass transit and affordable housing within the community wishing to purchase water.  Further he pointed out that this resolution does not reflect the original authorization to negotiate as passed by the Common Council in December 2007.  In addition to Alderman Bauman’s vocal opposition various organizations such as the Good Jobs & Livable Neighborhoods Coalition, the Metropolitan Milwaukee Fair Housing Council, and the ACLU spoke out in opposition to the water sale.  This opposition stems from the idea that sending water to sprawling communities without adequate housing or transit options makes access to the new jobs, that this transaction will support, near impossble for low-income residents of Milwaukee to access.   In addition to those concerns Bill Holahan, the Chairman of the UWM Department of Economics stated that “over the next 20 years the expansion out there will swamp the $1.5 million” and that “economic value of the water is probably not reflected in the $1.5 million”.  Despite these issues and concerns the resolution was approved and sent to a special meeting of the Finance & Personnel Committee held prior to July 30th’s Common Council Meeting.The other contentious item was the […]

Public Works Committee Holds Up Appointments

Public Works Committee Holds Up Appointments

The reappointment of Jeff Mantes to the position of Commission of the Department of Public Works and the reappointment of Jeff Polenske to the position of City Engineer were held to the call of the chair to start off this meeting. As numerous reappointments have flown through as of late it appears this may be in response to friction the Common Council has had working with the Department of Public Works. Specifically the Common Council has expressed their concern with how DPW handled snow plowing, leaf removal, and various street improvements. File number 080238 is a grouping of numerous assessable public improvements that included items such as street and alley re-construction. Similar files have experienced an ongoing problem whereas approximately half of individual projects are deleted because property owners are unwilling to pay exorbitantly high assessments. This has lead to the slow crumbling of city streets and ever increasing maintenance costs. Alderman Bob Donovon expressed his displeasure at Mayor Tom Barrett‘s unwillingness to replace the current assessment system with a recently proposed vehicle registration fee, by stating “I am hoping that this administration and the alderman in this community have the guts to move forward and do the right thing in changing the way we pay for paving projects.” This file was approved with numerous deletions and will move on to the Common Council for approval. File number 080195 is an ordinance relating to storm water management regulations. Alderman Michael Murphy argued that this resolution is important to because the “leading cause of pollution to our water system is really through non-point water sources” and this resolution targets those sources. Those sources includes streets and parking lots and this resolution address ways to reduce the amount of paved area which improves the grounds ability to absorb storm water. This resolution was passed and will go before the City Plan Commission for approval.

Zoning Committee Halts Empowerment Village

Zoning Committee Halts Empowerment Village

Although, this Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee meeting had a light schedule it did have one item of significance. Resolution 071292 and resolution 071181 made up the proposal for the re-zoning and sale of the city owned land located at the intersection of South Fifth Court and West Rosedale Avenue. This project which is better known as Empowerment Village pitted members in support of affordable housing versus environmental groups over a piece of city owned land. The environmental groups challenged the city’s right to sell the land and argued that during the Southeast Side Planning process this land had always been planned as a green space that would include a bike trail along the Kinnickinnic River. Alderman Michael Murphy pointed out that “we have to balance the needs”. But despite his words and Cardinal Capital‘s efforts to work with the environmental groups to alleviate their concerns by decreasing the size of the building, by paying for the bike trail to be built and by putting a conservation easement in place to protect much of the land as open space a compromise couldn’t be found. The committee voted to place on file these resolutions essentially denying this project from moving forward. The site location is pictured below via Google Maps Street View. View Larger Map

Breaking Down the 2008-2012 Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee

Breaking Down the 2008-2012 Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee

The 2008-2012 Common Council committee appointments were announced this week and it appears Common Council President Willie Hines, Jr. put together a qualified group to sit on the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee. Alderman James Witkowiak, Chair Alderman Willie Wade, V-C Alderman Michael Murphy Alderman Robert Bauman Alderman T. Anthony Zielinski The biggest change comes at the top of the committee where Alderman Witkowiak will be replacing out going Alderman D’Amato as the committee chairman. Alderman Witkowiak is a good choice for this role because the 5th Ward is starting to take off and the new Chairman will play a large role in shaping future development in the district. Additionally he has extensive experience working on neighborhood issues, from his time as Chairman of the License Committee, that should translate well to ZND. This ability to work with neighborhoods will be critical to the success of the committee due to the consistent need to work on neighborhood complaints surrounding development projects. Returning members Alderman Wade, Alderman Murphy, and Alderman Bauman have not necessarily always agreed on issues but generally work well together and come at an issue with solid arguments. Alderman Wade has shown he understand the value of density and of growing the city through development. Alderman Murphy’s knowledge of passed Common Council actions and his work on water related issues makes him a vital member of this committee. As the City of Milwaukee moves forward on mass transit efforts such as the KRM project, BRT, or the downtown streetcar effort Alderman Bauman’s history with mass transit issues should also be invaluable. Although Alderman Zielinski is new to ZND he brings a background in environmental efforts that could lead the committee to explore more green based zoning initiatives. As a group it will be interesting to watch their handling of projects as they have the characteristics to continue the steady march of redevelopment the City of Milwaukee has seen in recent years.

Zoning Committee Considers Additional Aloft TIF Funds

Zoning Committee Considers Additional Aloft TIF Funds

Resolution 071392 was likely to be very controversial given its intent to authorize additional funding for Tax Incremental District No. 48 (Park East) which would support the development of a Riverwalk section along the proposed Aloft site. Resolutions related to TIF financing often spark vigorous debate on how the funding should be allocated, what additionally requirements will be asked of the developer, and does this project truly require assistance. This resolution was no different as members of the Good Jobs and Livable Neighborhoods Coalition were present and looking to push this development project to be required to pay prevailing wages and additional requirements similar to the community benefits agreements they have pushed in the past. The debate will wait until next month as this item was held to allow Committee members time to obtain additional information about the proposal. Another contentious resolution, 070548, proposed allowing electronic changeable billboards to change advertisements every eight seconds. Alderman Bob Bauman and Alderman Michael Murphy expressed concerns over the possibility of driver distraction and light pollution that this change may cause. Although no citizens appeared to speak in opposition to this resolution Murphy pointed out “the media has for whatever reason doesn’t cover city government like they used to” indicating that with wider coverage he felt citizens would be opposed to this resolution. In the end it passed on a narrow three to two vote with both Bauman and Murphy opposing the resolution.

Zoning Committee Responds to Court Ruling

Zoning Committee Responds to Court Ruling

This meeting of the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee was quite unusual in that it was held in response to the court case Dawn McCarthy vs. The City of Milwaukee City. The case revolves around the city’s handling of a minor modification to the Detail Planned Development known has Downer Avenue Redevelopment Phase I. The court ruled that there were possible open meetings violations during some Historic Preservation Commission subcommittee meetings so to insure all information was publicly heard the judge ordered this meeting to be held. It is important to note the judge did not stop construction and didn’t expect the city to vote on the resolution in question. Peter Kovac, one of the Plaintiffs in the case, made comments indicating the city had re-opened the issue prompting Alderman Mike D’Amato to respond by saying “you seemed to of re-opened the whole issue”. Alderman Bob Bauman was heard saying “let him go on for two hours” expressing his frustration with the repetitive testimony and the proceeds. Despite Alderman Michael Murphy‘s concern over setting a precedent by passing a resolution in response to the direction of the court, the committee unanimously approved resolution 071365 reasserting the previously passed resolution.

Committee Appoints Whitney Gould to Planning Commission

Committee Appoints Whitney Gould to Planning Commission

Approving Whitney Gould‘s appointment to the City Plan Commission was the highlight of this meeting. The Committee made it clear that in her former position as the Journal Sentinel’s architecture writer she played an important role in improving Milwaukee’s urban environment and hoped she would bring her enthusiasm and knowledge to the Commission. The Committee also approved resolution 071307 which if approved by the full Common Council will allocate $1.4 Million dollars from the Housing Trust Fund to support five affordable housing projects. One example of these projects is the St. Catherine’s Residence at 1018 E. Knapp Street. It will receive $264,000 to build affordable housing for low-income women and it is already under construction. Alderman Michael Murphy pointed out that this $1.4 million will generate $26 million worth of development and went on to say that these projects do two things “one economic development and… two do the right thing”. The Northwest Side Area Comprehensive Plan was presented again as it had been held before to allow the Department of City Development to address issues that the committee felt the plan didn’t incorporate. Specifically items were added to insure existing rail corridors are reserved for future mass transit options and encouraged creating transit oriented development projects along those rail lines if they are ever converted to passenger service. Other areas of that plan that were improved included refinements of the 76th and Good Hope project, additional recommendations for the vacant transit hub at 76th and Mill, and addressed the potential reuse of Timmerman Airport if it were to be closed. One setback for the project was Alderman Jim Bohl‘s push to remove DCD’s suggested language regarding cul-de-sacs and their desire to better connect streets. This prompted Alderman Mike D’Amato to take a light hearted shot at Bohl by saying, “we hope you haven’t eliminated all the sidewalks from the Northwest side”. Additionally two closed sessions were held to discuss strategy with the City’s lawyers regarding the court case Dawn McCarthy vs. the City of Milwaukee. This case involves the City’s handling of the development of a City owned surface parking lot on Downer Ave. Despite the courts apparent concern the judge hasn’t stopped construction and development continues at a brisk pace.

Zoning Committee Hears the Northwest Side Area Comprehensive Plan

Zoning Committee Hears the Northwest Side Area Comprehensive Plan

The Northwest Side Area Comprehensive Plan, resolution 070933, was presented to the ZND committee seeking approved but it faced multiple criticisms that needed addressing. First Alderman Bauman explained that the northwest side has significant rail infrastructure and because of this there is “tremendous potential on the Northwest side” for transit oriented development, improved mass transit and enhanced mobility. Unfortunately the plan didn’t include any reference to this infrastructure so Alderman Bob Bauman suggested that the plan “go back to the drawing board.” Secondly, Timmerman Airport came up as multiple committee members expressed the likely hood of the site being redeveloped in the future and that the plan only lightly touched upon the topic. Finally Alderman Jim Bohl promoted suburban style development by expressing his concerns for DCD’s desire to encourage through streets and discourage cul–da-sacks. Due to these issues, the plan was held to allow DCD to incorporate more of these topics into the plan. Resolution 070609 was seeking approval of the Grede Foundry site for redevelopment which required a change in zoning from Industrial-Heavy to General Planned Development. Although some parts of the plan such as multistory buildings fronting the street and parking to be located behind the buildings were appropriate the design also left 65% of the 5 1/4 acres dedicated to surface parking. The committee compared the design to a “suburban office park” and concluded it was not appropriate for a near downtown site. And although Alderman Murphy suggested holding the file, the developer pressed forward prompting Alderman Bauman to make a motion placing it on file which prevailed 5-0 and essentially stopped this project. Resolution 071131 was seeking approval of the sale of the city owned lot located at 1027 N. Edison St to Edison Green, LLC. As was recently reported this eight-story mixed-use development will be located near the eastern terminus of the Highland Ave. pedestrian bridge and will include 25 residential units, first floor retail, office space and a banquet hall. The northern portion of the site will remain green space allowing access for the condos to the north and as part of the developments attempt to gain LEED certification. Further that portion of land also contains MMSD sewer infrastructure and police lines which would make development prohibitively expensive. The building will have five shared Prius cars, mopeds and a community boat allowing residents to go without owning a car or boat. Further the green roof will have hot tubs heated by solar panels and possibly small wind turbines on the roof. In general the neighboring condominium association appeared supportive of the proposal with their remaining concern being access to the green space to access their riverfront yards. The projects innovative and green approach was appreciated by the committee. Alderman Michael Murphy commented that this project is a “very thoughtful idea” but Alderman Wade expressed his appreciation strongest by stating “I got one thing to say Wow!” The resolution was approved with the understanding that the solution to the access issue will be agreed […]

City To Fund Building Redevelopment

City To Fund Building Redevelopment

In a rare move, the city is going to provide Compass Properties LLC with $3.2 million to repair their two Water Street properties immediately north of the 100 East Wisconsin building.

Plenty of Horne: Wi-Fi Deal Dead
Plenty of Horne

Wi-Fi Deal Dead

"City will court other Wi-Fi providers" -- Ald. Michael J. Murphy

The Roundup: Henningsen Moved
The Roundup

Henningsen Moved

milwaukeeworld.com scoop

The Roundup: New Home for Lord?
The Roundup

New Home for Lord?

Lord has been looking at the old Lou Fritzel building with owner Peter J. Kondos.

The Roundup: Riemer: “Ready to Run”
The Roundup

Riemer: “Ready to Run”

This terse note from Riemer almost sounds like a Bill Christofferson soundbite, which means it's a good one.

The Roundup: At it Again
The Roundup

At it Again

Alderman asked to make big money decision on 24 hour notice.

The Roundup: Mequon Turns Voter Away
The Roundup

Mequon Turns Voter Away

The City of Mequon told a local man who tried to register and vote at City Hall last week that he was “too late.”

The Roundup: Crisses Averted
The Roundup

Crisses Averted

Barrett and Walker Announce Plan for Ballots in Milwaukee

The Roundup: The Governor and the Empire Builder
The Roundup

The Governor and the Empire Builder

 

The Roundup: Lautenschlager’s Fast Ones – Past Speeding Tickets Raise Residency Issues
The Roundup

Lautenschlager’s Fast Ones – Past Speeding Tickets Raise Residency Issues

Attorney General Peg Lautenschlager exploits a legal loophole.

The Roundup: On the Fundraiser Trail
The Roundup

On the Fundraiser Trail

David Riemer held a fundraiser and art auction to advance his bid for County Executive. Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design was the place, and over a hundred people showed up to look at the art (a Guido Brink retrospective) and to meet with the candidate March 8th. Wine was served, and the food was perhaps the finest of the larger-scale campaign events this year. The snacks included hummus and all sorts of veggie-cheesy items nicely prepared and tastefully presented. Everybody had to shut up for a brief speech by the candidate. Riemer is getting better at these, and unlike certain other candidates for president or even for mayor, he is able to adjust the message to his audience with a reasonable degree of spontaneity. The crowd at MIAD learned that Riemer has two brothers who are actors, and mom was too. In college (as an undergraduate) he studied poetry. “Art is not just an add-on. Art is essential to a metropolitan area. It is essential to its success.” No argument from the crowd on that account. Marvin Pratt showed up, and that created a mild buzz for a while. Riemer campaign guru Bill Christofferson wants us all to know that his candidate’s “Last Blast” fundraiser will be held in Turner Hall on March 23rd, 5-7 p.m. The Riemer campaign sent out a news release encouraging its supporters to cast absentee ballots. Election Day, April 6th is Passover, he reminds us. It is also a time when many of us might be out of town on Spring break. Riemer would appreciate it if we voted before fleeing this miserable weather. It is all about turnout, at this point. Molly Christofferson, Bill’s daughter, did campaign work for Sandy Folaron. She now works for Marvin Pratt. Strange bedfellows. Bob Weiss held a fundraiser for Acting Mayor Pratt March 10th, at his restaurant, Shakers, 422 S. Second St. He sent me a note: “Clueless staffers, no signage, no promo materials, NO candidate, when promised 6-8 p.m. for His fundraiser.” Weiss said the event coordinator “sat by self in back corner, left after an hour. Some big hitter clients of mine left in disgust since Marvin not there. … Overall, hardly our greatest political experience.” Weiss is planning a solstice party this week (good timing), with plenty of food and booze. Forget the politics! Unopposed and Raising Money: Musings on the Common Council Presidency It is tough to draw a crowd in an election year when you have no opponent, and it’s nice for a candidate to not have to sweat his election. “I only hold one fundraiser a year and this is it,” said Ald. Michael Murphy at Derry Hegarty’s Pub, an event that perhaps saw about 75 people. The event was Thursday, March 11th, close enough to St. Patrick’s Day, which is appropriate since Murphy claims to be of Irish heritage. Since the money wasn’t absolutely necessary, and since the candidate seemed destined to win, the fundraiser easily lurched into its secondary […]

The Roundup: Art Jones Pension better than $100K per year
The Roundup

Art Jones Pension better than $100K per year

Two other Mayoral candidates eligible soon

The Roundup: Bobot Calls for Term Limit
The Roundup

Bobot Calls for Term Limit

Vince Bobot plans to request a change in the City Charter to limit the term of Milwaukee Mayor to two consecutive terms.

Murphy’s Law: Gary George’s Plot to Kill the Comptroller
Murphy’s Law

Gary George’s Plot to Kill the Comptroller

State budget deliberations are a time for mischief making, and state Sen. Gary George (D-Milwaukee) has always had a reputation for quietly slipping pet proposals into this biennial document.