| 6/10/2026 | 1 |
PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE
| RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTION
Minutes note: Pastor Alex Erdmann, Dr. Enid Trotman, and others provided extensive testimony about Mrs. Trotman’s
legacy as a teacher, mentor, and civil rights advocate who was a personal friend of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Alderwoman Pratt expressed support but noted that naming streets in this historic area can sometimes be
contentious among neighbors.
Appeared Dessalegn Bekele (DPW)
Appeared John Brey (DPW)
| Pass | 5:0 |
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| 6/1/2026 | 0 |
CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON THE NAMING OF PUBLIC BUILDINGS, FACILITIES AND STREETS
| RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTION AND ASSIGNED
Minutes note: Appeared John Brey (DPW)
Appeared Dessalegn Bekele (DPW)
Appeared Enid Trotman-(daughter of Cherrye Trotman)
Cherrye Trotman was an educator in Milwaukee Public Schools from 1963 until her retirement in 1994, and she continued volunteering in schools after retiring, often being mistaken by students for a staff member because of her daily involvement.
She founded the Martin Luther King Club after Dr. King’s assassination to promote racial unity in the community. The club regularly participated in multiple city parades (Christmas, St. Patrick’s Day, Fourth of July, Juneteenth), and helped guide many youth in the city, some of whom went on to become community leaders, professionals, and public servants.
Ms. Trotman’s involvement extended beyond education: she was active in the NAACP, business women’s groups, Top Ladies of Distinction, Church Women United, and Links Incorporated. She was a long-time Girl Scout leader and board member, receiving national recognition such as the Girl Scouts’ "Thank You" award for her decades of service.
Ms. Trotman was also a founder and leader of the Roosevelt Area Action Group for neighborhood beautification and safety, and continually supported schoolchildren with food, clothing, and resources often quietly and without recognition.
She was personally acquainted with civil rights leaders, having formed a friendship with Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King during her time in Alabama. Dr. King and Rosa Parks both visited her family’s home on Roosevelt Drive.
Appeared Sheila Parrish and Deidra Edwards in support.
Residents Gail O'Neil and David Mays initially expressed opposition due to fears that the honorary naming would legally change their home addresses, requiring new passports and licenses.
Committee members clarified that the naming is strictly honorary and involves a blue sign attached to the existing street sign with no impact on postal addresses or voter registration.
Ms. Trotman also received the Milwaukee Common Council’s Living Legacy Award in 2017 and was remembered for her generosity and tireless support of youth, neighbors, and social justice causes.
Chair Benson made a motion to approved, Member O'Neil second the motion recommend approval.
The committee voted unanimously to approve the nomination. | Pass | 5:0 |
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