Chairwoman Nicholson Reflects on a Year of Progress, Policy, Community

MILWAUKEE – Milwaukee County Board Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson is celebrating a year of bold action, historic milestones, and renewed commitments to advancing equity and opportunity for every resident of Milwaukee County. As a lifelong Milwaukeean, former educator, and national advocate for equity, Nicholson works to advance bold policy solutions that center community voices.

“As we close out the year, I am deeply proud of the progress we’ve made together,” said Chairwoman Nicholson. “From passing transformative legislation to connecting with neighbors at community events, this year reflects the collective energy, advocacy, and vision of Milwaukee County.”

Nicholson championed several key policies in 2025 that propel health, sustainability, and human dignity:

• Opioid Response – Directed opioid settlement funds to prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery, ensuring resources reach organizations saving lives every day.
• Climate Action 2050 Plan – Advanced a comprehensive plan to cut emissions, create local jobs, and improve public health, building on the resolution Nicholson authored to make Milwaukee County carbon neutral by 2050.
• Mitchell Park Domes – Championed legislative initiatives to preserve and reimagine the Domes as a living landmark, ensuring future generations can learn, connect, and celebrate community there.
• A Courthouse for the People– Co-authored a resolution with Supervisors Gómez-Tom and Martinez to safeguard fairness and due process following ICE arrests at the Milwaukee County Courthouse.

This year also marked a series of meaningful milestones:

• Five Years as Chairwoman – Nicholson was sworn in during the Covid-19 pandemic, in the middle of the parking lot, and days later was elected to be the first Afro-Latina Chairwoman. This year, she celebrated her fifth year as Board Chair.
• Robert Wood Johnson National Culture of Health Award – Milwaukee County was honored for its equity-centered leadership, driven by Nicholsons’ groundbreaking legislation declaring racism as a public health crisis and setting ordinances for Milwaukee County’s vision: ‘By achieving racial equity, Milwaukee is the healthiest county in Wisconsin.’
• Notable Latino Leader – Nicholson was named one of BizTimes’ 2025 Notable Latino Leaders, reflecting her commitment to representation and equity.
• Investments in Infrastructure – Contributed to transformative projects, including the new Health & Human Services Center, as well as the solar energy investments included in the project, and progress on the new Nature & Culture Museum of Wisconsin.
• Equitable and Community Driven Development – Nicholson championed funding legislation for projects that had their grand opening this year, including Concordia 27, King Park Housing, Washington Park Urban Ecology Center, and the revitalization of Sherman Park.
• Digital Transformation – After years of effort, County Board meetings are now digitally translated into Spanish to increase access.

A former teacher, Chairwoman Nicholson has continued to prioritize youth engagement and community connection. After reviving the Milwaukee County Youth Commission in 2022, Nicholson continues to support and participate in its ongoing success. Nicholson was honored to serve as the keynote speaker at the 45th Annual State of Wisconsin Martin Luther King Day Tribute & Ceremony, held at the State Capitol Rotunda under the theme “Justice Lives Here.” Nicholson also took part in events like Girls’ Day at City Hall and the Distinguished Young Women of Wisconsin pageant as a panelist, and celebrates alongside residents at community gatherings such as the Juneteenth and Pride parades, the Lakefront Family Kite Festival, United Community Center visits, the MANDI Awards, Milwaukee Night in D.C., and of course Sherman Park’s Annual Harvest Fest, founded by Nicholson, coming up again soon on October 25. Nicholson also hosts recognitions during the monthly board meetings, uplifting community members and honoring notable observances, including Women’s History, Black History, and Latiné Heritage months.

“Milwaukee County has so much to be proud of as a diverse, resilient community with a shared commitment to equity,” Nicholson said. “As we look ahead, I remain dedicated to advancing policies and partnerships that create a healthier, brighter, and more just future for all.”

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.