Meeting Details

Meeting Name: PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE Agenda status: Final
Meeting date/time: 5/20/2026 9:00 AM Minutes status: Final  
Meeting location: City Hall Room 301-B
Published agenda: Agenda Agenda Published minutes: Minutes Minutes  
Meeting video: eComment: Not available  
Attachments:
File #Ver.Agenda #TypeTitleActionResultTallyAction DetailsVideo
     Meeting convened at    Roll call Not available
260069 11.ResolutionSubstitute resolution approving levying of assessments and construction of assessable public improvement projects at various locations and appropriating funds for these purposes with the City cost of these projects approved by this resolution is estimated to be $873,880 for a total estimated cost of $1,196,800.

Minutes note: Appeared Holly Rutenbeck (DPW) 6th Aldermanic District N. Vel R Phillips Ave. -W. Vine St. To W. Reservoir Ave. (ST211260118). Install traffic calming speed humps(s). Appear Gerrett Kelly and Caitlin Forsythe they are in favor of placing a speed hump. Ald. Bauman moved approval. There were no objections. 7th Aldermanic District Alley between W. Keefe Ave., W. Townsend St., N. 46th St., N. 47th St. (ST212240104). Concrete alley pavement reconstruction, replace some abutting walk or driveway approaches, grading, storm drainage facilities, and permeable pavement as necessary. No public testimony. Ald. Moore supports the project. Ald. Bauman moved approval. There were no objections. 10th AIdermanic District Alley between W. Appleton Ave., W. Chapman Pl., W. Nash St., W. Potomac Ave. (ST212240102). Concrete alley pavement reconstruction, replace some abutting walk or driveway approaches, grading storm drainage facilities, and permeable pavement as necessary. Appeared Gloria Ellum, Oscar Ellum and Charles Ellum they are not in support. Appeared Robert Stetson he wants more information before he makes a decision. Appeared Teresa Brown she is in support. Appeared Terry Roby she is in support. Appeared Arthur Roby he is in support. Ald. Bauman moved approval. There were no objections. 11th AIdermanic District S. 53rd St. - W. Oklahoma Ave. to W. Montana St (ST211250131). Asphalt pavement resurfacing, replace sidewalk and driveway approaches where necessary sodding (6ft width tree border area), and grading. No public testimony. Ald. Burgelis supports the project. Ald. Taylor moved approval. There were no objections. 14th Aldermanic District S. 11th St. - W. Morgan Ave. to W Holt Ave (ST211260117). Install traffic calming speed humps (s). No public testimony. Ald. Dimitrijevic supports the project. Ald. Taylor moved approval. There were no objections.
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260076 02.ResolutionResolution determining it necessary to make various assessable public improvements at various locations and appropriating funds for these purposes with the City engineering cost estimated to be $425,000 for a total estimated cost of these projects being $2,550,000.

Minutes note: Appeared Holly Rutenbeck (DPW)
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260077 03.ResolutionResolution determining it necessary to make various nonassessable public improvements at various locations and appropriating funds for these purposes with the City engineering cost estimated to be $240,000 for a total estimated cost of these projects being $3,500,000.

Minutes note: Appeared Holly Rutenbeck (DPW)
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260078 04.ResolutionResolution approving construction of nonassessable public improvements at various locations and appropriating funds for these purposes with the City construction cost estimated to be $1,758,000 for a total estimated cost of these projects being $1,820,000.

Minutes note: Appeared Holly Rutenbeck (DPW)
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260079 05.ResolutionResolution authorizing the transfer of funds from the Street Improvement-State and/or Federal Aid Program to the Street Reconstruct or Resurface Program-Regular City Program at various locations for funding of local street improvements under the Local Roads Improvement Program for Municipal Street Improvement Greater than Twenty Thousand, with the City cost of $4,852,185.20, with a grantor’s cost of $1,005,864.80 for a total estimated cost of $5,858,050.

Minutes note: Appeared Holly Rutenbeck (DPW)
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260080 06.ResolutionResolution authorizing the transfer of funds from the Street Improvement-State and/or Federal Aid Program to the Street Reconstruct or Resurface Program - Regular City Program for West Keefe Avenue between North 8th Street and North 18th Street in the 6th Aldermanic District to fund the Municipal Street Improvement Supplemental Local Roads Improvement Program with City cost of $1,100,000, and grantor’s cost of $900,000 for a total estimated cost of $2,000,000.

Minutes note: Appeared Holly Rutenbeck (DPW)
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260123 07.AppointmentReappointment of Alderman Mark Chambers to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor.

Minutes note: Appeared Ald. Chambers Ald. Bauman mention that concerns were raised about issues brought forward by Common Ground and whistleblowers. Ald Bauman suggest to consider taking multiple appointments together and have each candidate answer what they intend to do about the allegations and how they would direct the commission. There was Motion to Confirm Ald. Chamber by Ald. Taylor the motion was confirm. They Commission moves to Item 11. Ald. Bauman motion to Held to the Call of the Chair all the reappointments and this motion prevailed.
HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIRPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260123 0 AppointmentReappointment of Alderman Mark Chambers to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. RECONSIDEREDPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260123 0 AppointmentReappointment of Alderman Mark Chambers to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. RECOMMENDED FOR CONFIRMATIONPass4:1 Action details Video Video
260124 08.AppointmentReappointment of Alderwoman Milele Coggs to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIRPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260124 0 AppointmentReappointment of Alderwoman Milele Coggs to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. RECONSIDEREDPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260124 0 AppointmentReappointment of Alderwoman Milele Coggs to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. RECOMMENDED FOR CONFIRMATIONPass3:1 Action details Video Video
260125 09.AppointmentReappointment of Representative Kalan Haywood II to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. (6th Aldermanic District)HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIRPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260125 0 AppointmentReappointment of Representative Kalan Haywood II to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. (6th Aldermanic District)RECONSIDEREDPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260125 0 AppointmentReappointment of Representative Kalan Haywood II to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. (6th Aldermanic District)RECOMMENDED FOR CONFIRMATIONPass4:1 Action details Video Video
260126 010.AppointmentReappointment of Julia Taylor to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. (3rd Aldermanic District)

Minutes note: Julia Taylor Appeared virtual
HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIRPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260126 0 AppointmentReappointment of Julia Taylor to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. (3rd Aldermanic District)RECONSIDEREDPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260126 0 AppointmentReappointment of Julia Taylor to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. (3rd Aldermanic District)RECOMMENDED FOR CONFIRMATIONPass4:1 Action details Video Video
260127 011.AppointmentReappointment of Corey Zetts to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. (3rd Aldermanic District)

Minutes note: Appeared Corey Zetts she stated the commission’s role is oversight of the district (policy, finance, personnel, operations, including plant operator). She said the commission did not know of the mismanagement allegations until recently. She said steps have been initiated to begin an independent, third-party performance audit overseen by the commission (and overseen by a commission member). Appeared Ald. Chambers he emphasized the commission will decide collectively on the auditor, will consider recommendations, but will not be required to follow recommendations from outside organizations. He noted the district staff provides regular/monthly audits and reporting at commission meetings. Confidence was expressed that staff will identify legitimate concerns and also report out if allegations are baseless. President José G. Pérez stressed the importance of independence and the appearance of independence, and asked about the specific process and timeline for auditor selection and how long it will take.
HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIRPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260127 0 AppointmentReappointment of Corey Zetts to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. (3rd Aldermanic District)RECONSIDEREDPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260127 0 AppointmentReappointment of Corey Zetts to the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District by the Mayor. (3rd Aldermanic District)RECOMMENDED FOR CONFIRMATIONPass4:1 Action details Video Video
260051 012.ResolutionResolution authorizing an easement with Wisconsin Electric Power Company on City of Milwaukee property at 823 South 4th Street, in the 12th Aldermanic District.

Minutes note: Appeared President José G. Pérez he wants to confirm with DCD/WEPCO that the easement-related work at 823 S 4th St will not disturb the underground pedestrian tunnel crossing National Ave.
HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIRPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260147 013.CommunicationCommunication relating to the permit process for parklets, sidewalk area dining facilities, and the active streets for business program.

Minutes note: Appeared Jim Cooney (License Division Manager) He explain the Public Way Dining Permit subcategories. Appeared James Washington (DPW Coordination Manager) He mention that approximate about 82 sidewalk cafés and about 22 total for parklets and Active Streets combined. Appeared David Gelting (Legislative & Fiscal Services Specialist) Appeared President José G. Pérez-The goal is to restructure parklet approvals because needs vary by block/neighborhood/commercial corridor. Proposed direction is to treat parklets as an extension of premises and route approvals through the licensing process. Intended benefits of the licensing approach include a clearer process for owners to notify neighbors and for nearby stakeholders to provide support, raise objections, or work through issues.
RECOMMENDED FOR PLACING ON FILEPass5:0 Action details Video Video
250086 114.ResolutionSubstitute resolution assigning the honorary street name John J. Williams to North 14th Street from West Capitol Drive to West Olive Street in the 1st Aldermanic District.

Minutes note: Appeared Joann Williams (daughter of John J Williams). Appeared
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
252170 015.CommunicationCommunication from the Department of Public Works relating to its performance in securing funding for infrastructure projects in the previous biennial budget and prospects for such funding in the future.

Minutes note: Appeared Ald. Burgelis Appeared Kevin Muhs (DPW - City Engineer) There is a power point presentation on the file.
RECOMMENDED FOR PLACING ON FILEPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260033 016.ResolutionA substitute resolution relating to the exploration and development of external partnerships for street maintenance.

Minutes note: Appeared Kevin Muhs (DPW - City Engineer) Appeared Ald. Chambers Ald. Taylor asked to be added as a sponsor.
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260070 017.ResolutionResolution relating to acceptance and execution of funding of a Green Solutions grant from the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District for the installation of permeable pavers in the westerly parking lane of South 18th Street between West Lincoln Avenue and West Becher Street as part of the City’s street reconstruction project, in the 12th Aldermanic District.

Minutes note: Appeared Solomon Bekele (DPW)
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260073 018.ResolutionResolution authorizing City entry into Green Schoolyards Redevelopment Program Funding Agreement and Conservation Easements with MMSD and MPS for MPS properties at various locations in the City of Milwaukee.

Minutes note: Appeared Jordan Schettle (Assistant City Attorney) Appeared Solomon Bekele (DPW)
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260074 019.ResolutionResolution authorizing City entry into a development and credit purchase agreement with Milwaukee Board of School Directors, City of Milwaukee, and CIS MMSD, LLC for the purchase of Green Infrastructure gallon credits at Lincoln and Modrzejewski Playfields, in the 12th Aldermanic District.

Minutes note: Appeared Jordan Schettle (Assistant City Attorney) Appeared Solomon Bekele (DPW)
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260075 020.ResolutionResolution authorizing City entry into Green Solutions Funding Agreements and Conservation Easements with MMSD and MPS for MPS properties, in the 3rd, 5th, 6th, 14th, and 15th Aldermanic Districts.

Minutes note: Appeared Solomon Bekele (DPW) Appeared Jordan Schettle (Assistant City Attorney)
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260094 021.ResolutionResolution authorizing the Commissioner of Public Works to execute a Reimbursement Agreement between the City of Milwaukee and the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District for the removal of an obstruction and relaying of storm sewer pipes along the Menomonee River located in the City of Milwaukee.

Minutes note: Appeared Robert Seleen (DPW)
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260108 022.CommunicationCommunication from the Department of Public Works submitting its 2025 residential recycling annual report

Minutes note: Appeared Laura Stevens (Resource Recovery Manager, DPW-Operations-Administration)
RECOMMENDED FOR PLACING ON FILEPass5:0 Action details Not available
260035 123.ResolutionSubstitute resolution relating to the collection of leaves raked by residents to the curb.HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIRPass4:1 Action details Video Video
260035 1 ResolutionSubstitute resolution relating to the collection of leaves raked by residents to the curb.RECONSIDEREDPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260035 1 ResolutionSubstitute resolution relating to the collection of leaves raked by residents to the curb.

Minutes note: Appeared Ald. Spiker Alderman Spiker reported receiving many constituent complaints, especially from seniors and residents with limited mobility, about the difficulty of bagging leaves versus moving them to the curb. Appeared Jerrel Kruschke (Commissioner of Public Work) Commissioner of Public Works Joe Kruschke said he supports speaking with alders about major operational changes, acknowledging outreach occurred to only a few alders (not all). DPW to report back after the fall leaf season on participation and effectiveness of bagging vs curbside leaf collection. DPW to improve advance communication with alders before implementing major operational changes.
SUBSTITUTEDPass4:1 Action details Video Video
260035 2 ResolutionSubstitute resolution relating to the collection of leaves raked by residents to the curb.

Minutes note: Appeared Ald. Spiker Appeared Max Drickey (LRB) Appeared Laura Stevens (DPW) Ald. Coggs asked to be added as a co-sponsor
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass4:1 Action details Video Video
260132 024.OrdinanceAn ordinance relating to state requirements for recycling and other purposes.

Minutes note: Appeared Ald. Spiker Appeared Max Drickey (Legislative & Fiscal Services Specialist) Appeared Laura Stevens (Resource Recovery Manager, DPW-Operations-Administration) Appeared Rick Meyers (DPW-Sanitation Services Manager)
RECOMMENDED FOR PASSAGEPass5:0 Action details Video Video
260133 025.ResolutionResolution granting approval of three driveway approaches with a width greater than 30 feet for the premises at 2005 West Oklahoma Avenue, in the 13th Aldermanic District.

Minutes note: Appeared Dawn Schmidt (DPW-Infra-Administration)
RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTIONPass5:0 Action details Video Video
191930 026.CommunicationCommunication from the Department of Public Works relating to the status of current and future operations.HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIRPass5:0 Action details Not available
     9:30 AM    Not available
251863 027.MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Public Works Committee relating to licenses.

Minutes note: ROWSEY, Andrew R Public Passenger Vehicle Driver’s License Application The applicant was present. Officer Phillips read the police report. Applicant addressed his police report and stated that he is trying to do better and has been sober for the last 4 to 5 years. Public Passenger Vehicle Driver’s License Application was approved. ROWSEY, Sheldon R Public Passenger Vehicle Driver’s License Application The applicant was present. Officer Phillips read the police report. Applicant addressed his police report, acknowledged his past mistakes, and took responsibility. He would like to move forward with his life and do better. He thanked the committee for giving him the opportunity to speak. Public Passenger Vehicle Driver’s License Application was approved.
RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVALPass5:0 Action details Video Video
     The following file may be Placed on File as no longer needed:    Not available
252139 128.ResolutionSubstitute resolution relative to acceptance and funding of the Wisconsin Coastal Management Program grant from the Wisconsin Department of Administration.RECOMMENDED FOR PLACING ON FILEPass5:0 Action details Not available
     Meeting Adjourned at 12:32 pm. Carmen Roman Staff Assistant This meeting can be viewed in its entirety through the City's Legislative Research Center at http://milwaukee.legistar.com/calendar.    Not available