Number
050106
Version
SUBSTITUTE 1
Reference
Sponsor
ALD. DONOVAN AND MURPHY
Title
Substitute resolution relating to Project Restore, fundraising and public awareness activities for the City Hall restoration project.
Analysis
This resolution requests the Mayor to raise public awareness of the City Hall Restoration project via Project Restore. This includes informing citizens of the architectural significance of the structure, as well as the necessary repairs and their cost. It also includes requesting the public for philanthropic contributions to reduce the unforeseen financial burden of this restoration on the City's Capital Budget.
Body
Whereas, Milwaukee's City Hall, a rare example of Flemish Renaissance design, is one of the City's most valuable architectural assets; and
Whereas, This distinctive building is among a celebrated few that are listed in the National Register of Historic Places; and
Whereas, This priceless structure requires extensive external repairs to retain its architectural value; and
Whereas, The magnitude of the repair cost was unforeseen, increasing by 60% since the initial estimates of approximately $44 million to more than $70 million; and
Whereas, Private donations would ease this financial burden, alleviating the strain on taxpayers; and
Whereas, The people of Milwaukee have shown their philanthropy in donating to various local organizations, out of charitable spirit and civic pride; and
Whereas, The Mayor of Milwaukee is a skilled public speaker whose endorsement will promote this cause, Project Restore, relating to the restoration of City Hall, galvanizing public support; and
Whereas, The Mayor could mobilize citizens by raising their awareness of City Hall's condition, and its historical and architectural significance to Milwaukee; and
Whereas, The Mayor could, working in concert with interested parties, create a nonprofit organization for the sole purpose of soliciting funds for the preservation of City Hall; and that nonprofit could coordinate grant writing and fundraising activities; and
Whereas, Public interest could be rallied through radio and newspaper articles featuring interviews with the Mayor, and experts on the City Hall restoration project; and
Whereas, The Mayor could visit schools to educate Milwaukee's future generation about Project Restore; and
Whereas, The Mayor could enlist civic support by such means as hosting a fundraising dinner or an auction, requesting donations or selling bricks engraved with the names of contributors to be displayed in the restored building; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, By the Common Council of the City of Milwaukee, that the Mayor is requested under Project Restore, to raise public awareness of the City Hall restoration project, informing citizens of the structure's significance and the construction costs; and be it
Further Resolved, That the Mayor is requested to undertake efforts to solicit donations to lessen the financial responsibility of this project on the taxpayers of Milwaukee.
Drafter
LRB 05191-2
RAC
5/6/2005