Nik Kovac is the City of Milwaukee budget director. He was an alderman on the Milwaukee Common Council until 2022. First elected in 2008, Kovac represented the city’s East Side, Riverwest, and a portion of downtown.
Official Council Biography
Nik Kovac was born and raised on Milwaukee’s East Side. He proudly attended Milwaukee Public Schools—from McDowell Montessori School to Golda Meir Elementary School, and Jackie Robinson Middle School through Riverside High School. While at Riverside, he earned more than 20 college credits from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee.
Attending Harvard University and graduating cum laude with a degree in mathematics, Alderman Kovac worked to become a beat reporter and then a newspaper editor in New York City. He returned to Milwaukee to work for the Shepherd Express and Riverwest Currents. He continues to write pieces for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Since April 2008, he has been the Alderman for Milwaukee’s 3rd District, which includes the Brady Street neighborhood and the East Side, home to the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee Campus and Riverwest neighborhoods. The district also includes many of the city’s artists and art institutions.
At City Hall he serves as the Chair of the Capital Improvements Committee, Vice-Chair of the Finance & Personnel Committee and as an influential member of the Licenses Committee. Alderman Kovac’s work extends outside City Hall and throughout his district as Chair of the East Side Architectural Review Board and as a member of the Milwaukee Arts Board, the Milwaukee Public Library Board of Trustees, the Milwaukee County Federated Library Board, the Park East Advisory Committee and the Riverside University High School Foundation Board of Directors. As a proud stockholder for the Green Bay Packers football club and a resident of Riverwest, Alderman Kovac hosts a weekly radio show, Packerverse, on Riverwest’s Community Radio Station.
These rich experiences in the district have taught him the positive influence that active, engaged artists and citizens can have on the local economy, a sense of community, neighborhood beautification, and the city’s social memory.
Content referencing Nik Kovac - Page 2
New demolition requirements would promote sustainability and create jobs
News release from Alderman Robert J. Bauman and Alderman Nik Kovac
Sep 6th, 2017 by Ald. Bob BaumanCouncil hearing set for DOJ draft report on MPD practices
News release from Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs and Council President Ashanti Hamilton
Aug 31st, 2017 by Ald. Milele CoggsSummer Soulstice Music Festival set for Saturday, June 24
East Side Summer Soulstice Music Festival - information from Alderman Nik Kovac
Jun 23rd, 2017 by Nik KovacCommon Council to take up Paris Climate Accord measure
News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Nik Kovac
Jun 19th, 2017 by Ald. Michael MurphyOverwhelming 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.
Feb 7th, 2017 by Common Council President Jose PerezCouncil 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.
Jan 25th, 2017 by Ald. Jim BohlMilwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Thanks Common Council for Their Support to Remove Estabrook Dam
MMSD will be responsible for removing the Dam once it obtains the necessary DNR permits.
Nov 1st, 2016 by County Executive Chris AbeleCity of Milwaukee Votes to Rezone Estabrook Dam Land
The vote is an important step in the effort to ultimately remove the Estabrook Dam.
Nov 1st, 2016 by Milwaukee RiverkeeperJoint letter to DA John Chisholm
Joint letter from members of the Common Council to District Attorney Chisholm
Oct 28th, 2016 by Milwaukee Common CouncilMayor Barrett’s 2017 Executive Budget Address
As Delivered
Sep 26th, 2016 by Tom BarrettCity of Milwaukee Announces An Organics Collection Pilot Program
Residents in selected Milwaukee neighborhoods encouraged to participate
Sep 19th, 2016 by Ald. Tony ZielinskiEdgar Lin Endorsed by Two Leading Milwaukee Newspapers
Leading Challenger in 16th AD Race Continue to Rack up Endorsements
Aug 8th, 2016 by Edgar LinMandela Barnes Announces Key Community Endorsements
Key Community Leaders and More Progressive Organizations Endorse New Leadership They Can Count On
Aug 4th, 2016 by Mandela BarnesEdgar Lin Announces Major Endorsements
Local Unions, Community Organizations and Community Leaders Express Support for Leading Challenger in 16th AD Race
Jul 27th, 2016 by Edgar LinOutrage at ambush of MPD officer & other police shootings
Joint Statement from All Members of the Common Council
Jul 19th, 2016 by Milwaukee Common CouncilTaking “Home” out of Home Rule
Joint Statement from All Members of the Common Council
Jun 24th, 2016 by Milwaukee Common CouncilBusy East Side Saturday with the Downer Classic and Summer Soulstice
Alderman Nik Kovac said the events have become “part of the normal rhythm of summer on the East Side.”
Jun 23rd, 2016 by Nik KovacGroundbreaking set for addition at MPS’ top-performing Maryland Avenue Montessori School
School rated 'Exceeds Expectations' on latest state report card
Jun 8th, 2016 by Milwaukee Public SchoolsCelebrate Wisconsin Bike Week with Mayor Tom Barrett, Alderpersons, the Wisconsin Bike Fed, and Bublr Bikes
Wisconsin Bike Week is June 6-12, 2016
Jun 3rd, 2016 by City of Milwaukee Deptartment of Public WorksFresh Thyme Farmers Market Announces Grand Opening of Milwaukee Store
Midwest Specialty Retailer Expansion Efforts Continue with the Opening of First Wisconsin Store
May 26th, 2016 by Urban MilwaukeeMural-makers to transform East Side alley into a work of art
Throughout the summer, artists will transform the alley that runs behind the Oriental Theatre and Colectivo Coffee into an outdoor collection of murals.
May 13th, 2016 by Nik KovacOutdoor painting competition begins this weekend
The events benefit the museums of the Milwaukee Museum Mile.
May 5th, 2016 by Nik KovacCouncil President Hamilton announces 2016-2020 committee assignments
News release from Alderman Ashanti Hamilton
Apr 26th, 2016 by Ald. Ashanti HamiltonReady to Work
I am looking forward to serving the interests of district residents on Milwaukee's Common Council.
Apr 3rd, 2016 by Mayor Cavalier Johnson2016 State of the City
Hmong American Peace Academy - February 8, 2016
Feb 8th, 2016 by Tom BarrettTown Hall Meeting Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Alderman Nik Kovac invites you to attend a 3rd District town hall meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 2nd at the East Library (2320 N Cramer Street).
Nov 30th, 2015 by Nik KovacBudget Discussion with Alderman Nik Kovac and County Executive Abele
Alderman Nik Kovac and County Executive Chris Abele invite you to join them for a town hall discussion on both the city and county budgets
Nov 30th, 2015 by Nik KovacYet again, report shows Milwaukee tax burden ranks favorably among peers
News release from Alds. Nik Kovac and Terry L. Witkowski
Nov 18th, 2015 by Nik KovacImportant Meeting Reminder from Alderman Nik Kovac
Just a friendly reminder that you are invited to attend a community meeting at The Jazz Estate, 2423 N. Murray Avenue, TONIGHT (Wednesday, November 18) at 6 p.m.
Nov 18th, 2015 by Nik KovacCouncil approves 2016 budget focused on public safety, libraries and jobs
News release from Common Council President Michael J. Murphy and Alderman Nik Kovac
Nov 3rd, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommon Council will review arena plan in series of meetings beginning August 31
News release from Alderman Michael J. Murphy
Aug 12th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyCommon Council ready for substantive, public review of arena proposal
The downtown arena proposal is nearing a full review and deliberation by the Common Council.
Jul 28th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil 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
Jul 9th, 2015 by Ald. Michael MurphyPaving Project Information from Alderman Nik Kovac
Although this may disrupt your travel and parking for a short time, I know we all will be pleased when Newberry Boulevard is smooth again—just in time for the 4th of July parade.
Jun 24th, 2015 by Nik KovacCity 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.
Jun 9th, 2015 by Common Council President Jose PerezMayor Barrett’s 2015 State of the City Address
Monday, March 9th, 2015 - Alverno College
Mar 9th, 2015 by Tom BarrettNeighborhood Meeting regarding Library Club Replacement
I am hosting a neighborhood meeting regarding a NEW application for a Class B Tavern License and Public Entertainment Premise License for the old Library Club
Mar 6th, 2015 by Nik KovacNeighborhood Meeting and Project Information for the Proposed River House Development, Milwaukee, WI
Atlantic Realty Partners and its design team will discuss the proposed redevelopment of the former Gallun Tannery site.
Feb 10th, 2015 by Atlantic Realty PartnersMembers of the Common Council Respond to Ald. Dudzik’s Remarks
Joint Statement from members of the Common Council
Jan 23rd, 2015 by Milwaukee Common CouncilCouncil approves Milwaukee Promise funding to help city neighborhoods
News release and maps document from Alderman Ashanti Hamilton
Dec 16th, 2014 by Ald. Ashanti HamiltonA big league city needs big league public transit options
Statement of Alderman Nik Kovac November 19, 2014
Nov 19th, 2014 by Nik KovacCity Unveils New Plan to Build on $2.6 Billion in Downtown Investment by Moving the Streetcar Project Forward, Adding Lakefront Line
Plan Covers Lakefront Line, Utility Costs Without Property Tax Dollars; Operations Slated to Begin by 2018
Nov 18th, 2014 by Tom BarrettCommon Council finds opportunities for efficiencies in 2015 approved budget
News release from Alds. Michael J. Murphy and Nik Kovac
Nov 10th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyFinance Committee Creates All-Hands-On-Deck Approach to Public Safety
Additional Police Officers Will Be One Part of Comprehensive Strategy Throughout All City Departments
Nov 6th, 2014 by Milwaukee Common CouncilMilwaukee 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.
Oct 29th, 2014 by Schools and Communities UnitedRICH program, selling city-owned foreclosed homes for $1, receives unanimous Council support
ews release from Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II
Oct 14th, 2014 by Ald. Russell Stamper, IIHousing stock, affordable housing get boost from Common Council
The Common Council has approved a new Housing Stock Improvement Program
Sep 24th, 2014 by Ald. Bob BaumanNonprofits 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.
Sep 23rd, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyCouncil members target enrollment incentives offered by charter schools
News release from Alds. Nik Kovac and Michael J. Murphy
Sep 23rd, 2014 by Nik KovacCity of Milwaukee Preliminary Budget Hearing
The City of Milwaukee will hold a 2015 Preliminary Budget Hearing to ensure the 2015 City of Milwaukee Budget addresses the needs of our community
Aug 14th, 2014 by Tom BarrettIf a Progressive will not fight for what is right, how can that Progressive claim to fight for the people?
A lie is an intentionally false statement.
Jul 28th, 2014 by Joseph Thomas KleinCyclists, city officials gearing up for seventh annual Riverwest 24
Riverwest 24 Starts tonight -- News release from Alds. Kovac and Coggs
Jul 25th, 2014 by Nik KovacCouncil approves minimum hourly wage ordinance
Joint news release and file from Alderman Hamilton, Alderman Kovac and Alderwoman Coggs
Jul 22nd, 2014 by Ald. Ashanti HamiltonProposal to lift cap on taxicab permits, create legal path for network company vehicles gets second look Tuesday
“The Council is poised to adopt ground-breaking legislation that in my opinion will be looked at by other large cities and communities across the nation.”
Jul 18th, 2014 by Milwaukee Common CouncilBrady Street BID#11 Teams up with NEWaukee for 3rd Annual Art Walk
The Brady Street Business Improvement District, BID#11, and NEWaukee will partner up to host the 3rd Annual Art Walk during Spring on Brady.
Jun 4th, 2014 by Nik KovacMeeting invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Join State Senator Chris Larson and Milwaukee Alderman Nik Kovac for a town hall meeting on Tuesday, May 13
May 12th, 2014 by Nik KovacMeeting invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Join State Senator Chris Larson and Milwaukee Alderman Nik Kovac for a town hall meeting on Tuesday, May 13 at the Riverside University High School Auditorium, 1615 E. Locust Street, from 5pm to 6:30pm
May 12th, 2014 by Nik KovacImportant meeting information from Alderman Nik Kovac
Join us for a town hall meeting sponsored by Senator Chris Larson, Senator Nikiya Harris, Representative Leon Young, Alderman Nik Kovac and Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs tomorrow (Tuesday, May 6) at theGordon Park Pavilion (SE corner of E. Locust and N. Humboldt) from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Hear how legislation that passed during session this year will affect the community, and share your thoughts with your representatives.
May 5th, 2014 by Nik KovacMeeting reminder from Alderman Nik Kovac
Alderman Nik Kovac invites you to attend a 3rd District town hall meeting from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. TONIGHT, April 30 in the library at Riverside University High School.
Apr 30th, 2014 by Nik KovacCesar Chavez city worker holiday proposal to be heard by Finance and Personnel Committee
City employees would have the option of taking off on March 31 annually as a holiday observing the birthday of American labor and civil rights champion Cesar E. Chavez.
Mar 25th, 2014 by Ald. Tony Zielinski$10,000 Awarded to Community Artists for Performance Ideas in the ARTery, New Park in Harambee
Community members dreamed up 116 ideas in response, and after an open jury hosted at All People’s Church, beintween awarded a total of $10,000 to the top 20 winners.
Feb 27th, 2014 by Press ReleaseMayor Tom Barrett’s 2014 State of the City Address
Milwaukee February 24, 2014 As Prepared for Delivery
Feb 24th, 2014 by Tom BarrettUnder 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.
Feb 14th, 2014 by Nik KovacStrengths, 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.
Feb 12th, 2014 by Ald. Michael MurphyRay Chi Selected to Commission Public Art at East Library
Milwaukee Artist’s Concepts Will Activate Space on Cramer and North Avenue
Feb 7th, 2014 by Milwaukee Public LibraryFinalists Chosen for East Branch Public Art Project
The Milwaukee Public Library Selects Four Local Artists To Present Plans for Third Public Art Installation
Dec 24th, 2013 by Milwaukee Public LibraryBike-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.
Dec 5th, 2013 by Ald. Bob BaumanReminder: Neighborhood Town hall Set for Wednesday, December 11
The event will be held in the auditorium at Riverside University High School, 1615 E. Locust St. from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Dec 2nd, 2013 by Nik KovacWangard Breaks Ground on New Apartment Development in Park East Corridor
Avenir apartments expected to open September 2014
Nov 8th, 2013 by Wangard Partners, Inc.Planning and a Pint Series Takes on Bradley Center Debate
Discussion at the Bradley Center will center around future of facility, and the possibility a new arena.
Oct 21st, 2013 by UWM Alumni AssociationRiverside girls track team to cut ribbon on new track Saturday
Set for 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 12 at school; track had not been upgraded since 1977
Oct 11th, 2013 by Milwaukee Public SchoolsArtists Chosen for Milwaukee Public Library East Branch Public Art Project
Local Artists Awarded Two Commissions for Internal Public Art Works
Oct 9th, 2013 by Milwaukee Public LibraryPublic Meeting in Riverwest Next Week
A joint public meeting with Alderman Nik Kovac and Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs will be held at 6 p.m. on Monday, September 23, 2013.
Sep 17th, 2013 by Milwaukee Common CouncilMilwaukee Gets Ready to Cut Ribbon on First Parklet in City
Public Invited to Grand Opening of ‘Curbside Dining Deck’ Today
Aug 23rd, 2013 by East Side BIDMilwaukee Gets Ready to Cut Ribbon on First Parklet in City
Public Invited to Grand Opening of ‘Curbside Dining Deck’ Aug. 23rd
Aug 19th, 2013 by East Side BIDEvent Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
I am hosting a neighborhood meeting regarding Library Club.
Aug 6th, 2013 by Nik KovacPACE 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.
Jul 2nd, 2013 by Ald. Michael MurphyGlobal Anti-Bigotry Campaign Makes U.S. Debut in Milwaukee
Milwaukee Jewish Federation collaborates with U.S. Department of State to launch Hours Against Hate
Jun 24th, 2013 by Milwaukee Jewish FederationLandlord registration program could be eliminated
Statement from Alderman Nik Kovac June 20, 2013
Jun 20th, 2013 by Nik KovacNew legislation targets predatory schools, protects students
Statement of Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs June 11, 2013
Jun 11th, 2013 by Ald. Milele CoggsCelebrate Bike to Work Week with Mayor Tom Barrett, Alderpersons, and The Wisconsin Bike Federation
Bike to Work Week is May 13-18, 2013
May 10th, 2013 by City of MilwaukeeCity car sharing partnership brings Zipcar to the 3rd Aldermanic District
The City of Milwaukee has launched a new partnership with Zipcar, Inc. to offer a car sharing program in Milwaukee located in the 3rd District, Alderman Nik Kovac said.
May 2nd, 2013 by Nik KovacReferendum on same-day registration a chance to make residents’ voices heard
Joint Statement from members of the Common Council
Apr 1st, 2013 by Milwaukee Common CouncilImportant information from Alderman Nik Kovac
The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that's of critical importance to our future.
Mar 28th, 2013 by Nik KovacMilwaukee Public Library’s East Library Will Relocate to Temporary Facility This Summer and Hold Public Meeting on Design in April
Library Will Use Temporary Site During Construction of East Branch
Mar 26th, 2013 by Milwaukee Public LibraryMayor Barrett’s 2013 State of the City Address
Monday, February 25, 2013, Pritzlaff Building
Feb 25th, 2013 by Tom BarrettUrban home ownership, maintaining neighborhood vitality to be discussed during City Hall event Friday
A City Hall event on Friday (February 1) entitled “Panel on Urban Home Ownership and Neighborhood Vitality during the Foreclosure Crisis,” will feature Alderman Nik Kovac.
Jan 31st, 2013 by Nik KovacM. L. King Library is Open and Will Hold a Special Program on Martin Luther King Jr. Day
All Other Milwaukee Public Libraries are closed for the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday
Jan 16th, 2013 by Press ReleaseSame-day voter registration advisory referendum goes to voters on April 2, 2013
Statement from Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs January 15, 2013
Jan 16th, 2013 by Ald. Milele CoggsEvent Invitation from Alderman Nik Kovac
Alderman Nik Kovac, along with State Senator Chris Larson and State Representative Jon Richards, invites residents to a Community Town Hall meeting:
Jan 11th, 2013 by Press ReleaseCouncil 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.
Dec 20th, 2012 by Milwaukee Common CouncilMilwaukee’s conservation efforts pay off with Bird City Wisconsin designation
Milwaukee Alderman Nik Kovac is pleased to announce that the City of Milwaukee is among six of the most recent municipalities to win recognition from Bird City Wisconsin.
Dec 14th, 2012 by Nik KovacPublic vetting process needed for Fire and Police Commission appointments
Joint Statement from Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs, Alderman Nik Kovac, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, and Alderman José G. Pérez
Dec 12th, 2012 by Milwaukee Common CouncilEast Library Design Public Meeting
The Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) will hold a public meeting TOMORROW, December 11th on the new East Library design.
Dec 10th, 2012 by Nik KovacNeighborhood Meeting Tonight
Meeting on the proposed location for a new Pizza Man restaurant.
Dec 5th, 2012 by Nik KovacEast Library Design Meeting
The Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, December 11th on the new East Library design.
Dec 5th, 2012 by Nik KovacAlderman Kovac invites residents to stuff Santa’s sleigh tomorrow
Phoenix is seeking nonperishable food, monetary and in-kind donations to the Hunger Task Force.
Dec 3rd, 2012 by Nik KovacNeighborhood Meeting
Your input is important. I hope to see you there!
Nov 27th, 2012 by Nik KovacCouncil votes to support County Board’s Medical Examiner legislation
County Board file establishes new policy for ME in cases involving death while in law enforcement custody
Oct 23rd, 2012 by Ald. Milele CoggsMayor’s Committee to Host United Nations Anniversary Commeroration
The City of Milwaukee will be celebrating the ideals and impact of the United Nations on Wednesday, October 24, 2012 by hosting a presentation and reception in City Hall in honor of the 67th Anniversary of the United Nations Charter.
Oct 23rd, 2012 by Tom Barrett

























































