Tom Barrett

Contribution to Justin Bielinski of $100

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

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.

Same-day voter registration advisory referendum goes to voters on April 2, 2013

Statement from Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs January 15, 2013

Funder’s Network awards Milwaukee-based Midwest BikeShare, Inc. $45,000 grant to bring shared bike program to community

Milwaukee among six grant recipients to bring sustainable initiatives to cities; nearly $500,000 committed to date to BikeShare

Enough is enough with co-sleeping deaths

Alderman Donovan calls for charges in recent infant death

Milwaukee One of Six Cities Selected to Receive Free Neighborhood Development Consultations Under Second Year of US EPA Grant to Global Green, USA

Sustainability Experts from Global Green USA to Visit Towns Across the Country in 2013

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.

Mayor Barrett’s Statement on Today’s Tragic Shooting

Mayor Barrett Released the Following Statement Regarding Today’s Tragic Shooting

A Redesign for Hi Hat Garage

A cooler Garage, more delay on Two Parks proposal, and progress on East Library redevelopment.

Mayor Barrett, City Employees and the Famous Racing Sausages to Pack Holiday Care Packages for Troops Overseas

The 6th Annual City of Milwaukee Holiday Care Package Drive benefitting Wisconsin’s 128th Air Control Squadron serving in Southwest Asia.

President Hines to stress importance of new smoke alarm ordinance

Common Council President Willie L. Hines, Jr. will join Mayor Tom Barrett and Fire Chief Mark Rohlfing to highlight the importance of the city’s new smoke alarm ordinance on Thursday, December 13, 2012 at 11:00 a.m.

The Incredible Flip-Flop

Did the Fire & Police Commission bend to mob mentality or act as a responsible policy maker?

Quiet Company Could Build City’s Tallest Building

An examination of the who, what, where, and when of the new Northwestern Mutual office tower.

Northwestern Mutual Announces Commitment to Downtown Milwaukee

Planned office tower means 2,800 downtown jobs

Mayor Backs Flynn, Slams Newspaper

Journal Sentinel’s series on data errors “takes crime fighting officers off the street,” Barrett charges.

Northwestern Mutual to Announce Major Development in Downtown Milwaukee

Local elected officials, including Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, and business, community and civic leaders will join Northwestern Mutual Chairman and Chief Executive Officer John Schlifske as he announces plans to expand the company’s downtown Milwaukee headquarters with a proposed high-rise tower to replace Northwestern Mutual’s east building.

Governor’s continued attempts to disenfranchise voters warrant arrest

Statement of Alderman Ashanti Hamilton

East Library Design Meeting

The Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, December 11th on the new East Library design.

Mayor Barrett Released the Following Statement on the Passing of Felmers Chaney

Milwaukee has lost one of its most prominent and influential citizens.

In Defense of Same Day Registration

Mayor Barrett, government and community leaders, speak out against Governor Walker’s proposal to eliminate same day registration

Walker’s Freeway Farce

After blaming Barrett for "delaying" the Zoo Interchange, Walker is now stalling it, while rejecting a gas tax hike to pay for it.

Mayor & Co. Executive to Announce New Way to Experience Milwaukee

More than 50,000 People Have Chosen a New Way to Experience Milwaukee

How State Aid to Cities Has Plummeted

Milwaukee is getting killed by declining shared revenue, violating a century-old state agreement.

Mayor Barrett to Kick-Off 6th Annual Holiday Care

6th Annual City of Milwaukee Holiday Care Package Drive benefiting the men and women serving in the 128th Air Control Squadron serving in Southwest Asia.

Home Contest is a Big Winner

Most Improved Home Contest offers $7,000 in prize money, generates $164,000 in home improvements.

Celebrate the 99th Annual City/County Christmas Tree Lighting

Mayor Tom Barrett, County Executive Chris Abele, and Ald. Ashanti Hamilton at Red Arrow Park

The High Cost of the County Board

We could save millions and improve efficiency by cutting the county board and its huge staff.

The Wounds of War

A new peer network program gives support to Vietnam veterans.

Peter Buffett Comes to Town

Buffett helps Radio Milwaukee, Barry Mandel makes a bundle selling East Pointe and Gwen Moore crows about cave men.

City Decides Election

More than 80 percent of Obama’s victory margin in Wisconsin came from Milwaukee.

Milwaukee Named as Top 20 Finalist in Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Mayors Challenge

City’s idea selected from more than 300 submissions to compete for $5 million grand prize

Comings and Goings

A veteran union leader steps down, a new post for Nikiya Harris and Glorioso's tries, of all things, beer.

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.

New Journey House Football Field

An NFL landing: The Green Bay Packers donate a practice field to the the Clarke Square neighborhood.

County Board Votes Against Taxpayers and For the Status Quo

The Milwaukee County Board’s Budget Committee voted 9 - 0 today to raise taxes on Milwaukee County citizens.

Mayor’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.

Mayor Barrett Announces 6.8% Drop in Teen Births

Through outreach and education efforts, city announces progress in meeting 2015 goal.

The Rise of MU Law School

How it became the state's leading pollster and a high profile place for public forums.

Energy Action Month – Get a Free LED Lightbulb

Today, Mayor Barrett declared that October is Energy Action Month.

The Holton Bridge Swings

Kinetic sculptures enliven the gathering place below the Holton Bridge. And Weird Al holds court in MKE.

Is Chief Flynn Off the Hook?

The federal investigation could cool calls for Flynn's resignation.

Power Play

A city committee resists heavy lobbying and forestalls a special taxing district for Juneau Park and Cathedral Square.

Mayor Barrett to Mark Second Annual Safe Sleep Sabbath

City of Milwaukee partners with local faith communities to reduce infant deaths.

Alderman Donovan backs MPD, Chief Flynn on Williams case

While it appears to now be open season on the Milwaukee Police Department and its leader, I, for one, am standing squarely behind the dedicated and hard working men and women of the MPD and Chief Flynn with regard to the Derek Williams case.

Water Council is “Absolutely Unique”

Rich Meeusen applauds the group's progress. And Tom Barrett shouts it from the rooftop.

Mayor Barrett Announces “Freshwater Way” As the Winning Street Name to Replace “Pittsburgh Avenue”

Popular Contest Produced Hundreds of Suggestions

The public is “understandably horrified.”

Chief Flynn frankly discusses the death of Derek Williams in police custody.

Milwaukee Public Schools Promotes Fire Safety Awareness

Survive Alive House will host fire safety kick-off and 20th anniversary celebration on October 8.

Should Chief Flynn Resign?

The city is divided over the chief. But is it all his fault?

Too Many Cops in Milwaukee County?

The high cost of a huge sheriff’s budget and 19 local police departments.

Hundreds to Rally to Support Homeownership

To highlight the importance of homeownership in America and generate awareness of vital housing issues for the upcoming November 6 elections, the Metropolitan Builders Association (MBA), Wisconsin Builders Association (WBA) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) are sponsoring a special Rally for Homeownership.

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.

Statement from Mayor Tom Barrett Concerning the Public Service Commission Ruling on the Milwaukee Streetcar Project

We agree with comments made by two of the three Public Service Commission (PSC) members that the Streetcar project is an exercise of the City’s police power, and that it is a benefit to the public’s health, safety and welfare.

City Seeks Candidates for 2012 City/County Christmas Tree

Your tree could decorate Red Arrow Park for all to enjoy!

Mayor Barrett Presents 2013 City Budget to the Common Council

Homeowners Will See Services Maintained with Taxes and Fees Steady

How will Milwaukee Police Department handle extra work?

I’m disappointed the Mayor didn’t find it necessary to brief more Council members on his plans.

Project Patchwork artwork created by Alderwoman Coggs to be part of event

The art lottery and all of the Fusion 2012 events at RedLine – 1422 N. 4th St.– will take place TODAY (Friday, September 21, 2012) starting at 5 p.m.

Million-dollar baby: Wangard wants $1 million in clean-up funds – Janitors union calls day of action

RACM meets at 1:30 PM on Thursday to decide whether or not to approve a $1 million brownfield remediation loan request from building owner/developer Stewart Wangard of Wangard Partners.

DCD’s Rocky Marcoux is cleared by DA’s Office

Today I received correspondence from the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office, notifying me that the investigation of my inquiry into possible criminal wrongdoing on the part of Commissioner Rocky Marcoux of the Department of City Development had been completed.

Protests at Palermo’s not good for business

Future business grand openings in Milwaukee could depend on it.

Mayor Barrett to Host Tournavation Pitch for Bloomberg’s Mayors Challenge Tonight at City Hall

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett has entered Milwaukee into The Mayors Challenge---a competition organized by New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s philanthropic foundation that challenges cities across America to find innovative solutions to problems, improve urban life and make city government work better.

Mayor Proclaims August 24 Captain Haley Day in Milwaukee

Captain’s 2,500th Lake Michigan crossing celebrated with proclamation, ceremony

Where my loyalties rest

I feel compelled to respond today to the comments about me that came from Jeff Fleming on behalf of the Barrett administration.

We need a real public safety strategy, not another street roll call

We need to fill the MPD officer vacancies and create a real public safety strategy for Milwaukee.

Alderman Donovan to Mayor: Start paying attention to Milwaukee

How did the first moments of my first day of vacation begin (today)?

City of Milwaukee Health Department partners with businesses, community groups to give children a healthy start to the school year

The event is part of Milwaukee Child Health Week, which runs August 10-17 and is designed to promote the importance of access to a medical provider and encourage parents to assure basic health services for children, including immunizations.

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

Youth Councils, elected officials come together for a safe community

The news conference will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at the U.S. Cellular Main Gate at State Fair Park (located on the north end of the Fair Park).

Downtown Employee Appreciation Week kicks off Monday

Monday marks the start of the 7th Annual Downtown Employee Appreciation Week, July 30 – August 3.

The Voter Suppression Game

Both parties are devising strategies to discourage voting. But Republicans are using government power.

Common Council approves Milwaukee Jobs Act initiative

The Common Council today approved creation of the Milwaukee Jobs Act -Transitional Jobs Program – a multifaceted effort to create employment opportunities for city young people and job seekers from areas of the city that have been particularly hard-hit economically.

U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu Visits Ingeteam

On Thursday U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu toured Ingeteam, and announced Milwaukee's acceptance of President Barack Obama's Better Buildings Challenge.

Debra Usinger to be posthumously recognized for her dedication and contributions to Milwaukee

Debra Usinger, a passionate supporter of Milwaukee’s downtown who dedicated her time and talents to numerous groups, will be posthumously recognized by the Common Council’s Community and Economic Development Committee

Mayor Barrett and U.S. Secretary of Energy Chu call for renewed Clean Energy Tax Credits as Milwaukee joins the Better Buildings Challenge

Milwaukee commits to reduce energy use by 20% by 2020

Mayor Barrett Celebrates Independence Day With Visits To Milwaukee Parks

Mayor Barrett will visit a number of Milwaukee parks and community centers on Wednesday, July 4 to celebrate Independence Day.

Grand Theatre ticket booth transformed to meet needs of visitors and newcomers

Downtown Milwaukee is finding creative ways to revitalize Wisconsin Ave.

Clock Shadow Building Grand Opening Celebration

Community members join together to celebrate The Clock Shadow Building's grand opening.

Rocky Road

Some aldermen want to dump DCD head Rocky Marcoux, but Mayor Barrett disagrees.

Will Allen Goes Viral

From ABC News to Colbert, everybody is celebrating Will Allen.

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.

Letter to the Mayor

I am persistent and believe in getting to the bottom of important matters and to the residents of Milwaukee.

Alderman Donovan will hold streetcar project rally, petition drive Saturday

Alderman Bob Donovan will hold a rally and news conference at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 16.

Why Walker Won’t Compromise

He now says he will bring us together. But don’t bet on it.

Why Walker Won

Democrats blame money, but might examine their muddled message.

15th Annual Mayor’s Design Award Winners Announced (Photo Gallery)

The winners of the 15th annual Mayor's Design Awards have been announced with projects ranging from a high-rise housing tower to a complete street redesign taking home awards.

Did Walker or Barrett Win Debate?

Barrett was punchy, Walker was cool. Which strategy will convert more voters?

Milwaukee Could Decide Race

Without a high county turnout, Tom Barrett is toast.

Did Donovan Make Bauman Soil His Pants?

Another week, another Ald. Donovan anti-streetcar press conference. Plus: will the Bucks get a new owner and new arena? And: East Side zoning changes and the return of the Downtown Trolley loop.

The Barrett-Walker ‘Hood

The candidates are worlds apart politically -- but practically neighbors.

Will Abele Run for Mayor?

That's one way to consolidate city and county government, by grabbing both executive positions.

Herb Kohl’s Arena Commitment, The Second Downtown Strip Club, Northwestern Mutual’s New Downtown Building, and More

This week's Eyes on Milwaukee column explores Herb Kohl's commitment to a new arena, the idea of another downtown strip club, Northwestern Mutual's potential new downtown building, and a whole lot more.

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.

Kohl’s, The Moral of the Story

For over a year the City of Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and various regional entities worked together in attempt to bring Kohl's corporate headquarters to downtown Milwaukee. Unfortunately, they were unsuccessful. Some have been quick to judge saying the moral of the story is, the city is a failure, and Mayor Barrett can't get the job done. Now, it is true the city didn't win, this time, but is the moral of the story, failure?

Mixed-Use East Library Proposals Meet the Neighbors

Wednesday night, Alderman Nik Kovac held a public meeting to allow feedback to be voiced regarding the three proposed alternatives for the redevelopment of the one-story East Library into a mixed-use facility. The meeting was a follow-up to a meeting last November discussing the potential of issuing a request-for-proposal (RFP) for the redevelopment of the East Library site. Attendees at the meeting were provided with an update on the process and allowed to ask questions about the process and proposals. The predictable East Side public meeting questions were aired, but which, if any, of the proposals will be selected?

What can Milwaukee look forward to in 2011?

Numerous signs point to a national economy that is recovering. Hiring has started to pick up, banks are starting to lend again, and locally 'failed' projects are slowly filling up. But everything isn't great just yet, as here in Wisconsin there is a 14 month supply of homes available on the market, and nationally unemployment sits at 9.4%.

It’s Bike to Work Week in Milwaukee!

Even if it just once this week, give it a try as biking to work might just be the most fun you have all summer.

Milwaukee to Contract Nationally Recognized Transit Expert

At the May 4th, 2010 meeting of the Common Council, Alderman Bauman brought forward an item that would allow the City of Milwaukee to enter into a contract with an expert consultant, Jeffery Boothe, for the purpose of facilitating the next steps of the Milwaukee Streetcar project.

Mayor’s Hand Will Require Further Surgery

Barrett Announces New Manufacturing Plant in Valley

Water for Jobs Application Approved by City Committee

At the January 6th, 2010 Public Works Committee meeting the first step was taken towards creating a special water rate that could be given to businesses in return for job creation within the City of Milwaukee.

S. 2nd Street Redesign Approved by the Common Council

The proposed improvement of S. 2nd Street, in Walker's Point, was up for approval at the December 22nd meeting of the Milwaukee Common Council.