Ald. Coggs introduces file to help bolster building safety

Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs has introduced a resolution amending the City of Milwaukee’s Legislative Package to direct lobbying of the State of Wisconsin and the federal government to establish a program to subsidize owners of multi-family properties to retrofit fire suppression systems. This comes on the heels of multiple fires in which the properties did not have sprinkler systems. Sprinkler systems have been required in buildings taller than 60 feet since 1974, but older buildings were simply grandfathered in under the law.

“In the last month alone, several people have lost their lives, and many others have been displaced, as the result of fires where the properties did not have sprinkler systems,” Alderwoman Coggs said. “Any loss of life should be cause enough to investigate making the necessary changes to state law so buildings that were previously grandfathered in can be retrofitted with the equipment that can save lives, property, and ensure peace of mind. This is the first step in that process.”

It is estimated that nearly 70% of Milwaukee’s high-rise buildings were constructed before 1974, and as such may not have fire sprinkler systems.

The file (Council file #250278) will be heard at a future meeting of the Common Council’s Judiciary and Legislation Committee.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.