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| | | | Meeting convened at 3:00 pm.
Minutes note: Mark Jarosz left at 4:50 pm | | | |
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260622
| 0 | 1. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for installation of a playground, various recreational facilities, and alterations to the comfort station, all along Meinecke Avenue, at 750 E. North Avenue, Kilbourn/Reservoir Park, an individually designated historic property, for Milwaukee Water Works.
Minutes note: Appeared Rese Schneider, Robert (Bob) Schneider (Parents of Stella Schneider)
Appeared Kayla Schultz, MKE Parks Program Coordinator, DPW
Appeared Joseph Kaltenberg, MKE Parks Program Coordinator, DPW
Appeared The Project Team Architects
Staff planner Tim Asking detailed the proposed changes to the comfort station, which has been unused for some time. The plan involves renovating it into accessible bathrooms and a potential concession stand.
Facade changes to the comfort station will be minimal, primarily focusing on reopening windows and widening two south-side windows to create accessible doorways.
The project includes the addition of picnic shelters placed at a one-foot distance from the comfort station to prevent roof splash-back on the original half-timbering.
The commission discussed using a lower roof pitch for these shelters to keep more of the historic timbering visible.
The playground design features a "dragon" theme, inspired by Stella, a local child who became disabled after a brain tumor resection. Her parents, Rese and Bob Schneider, shared how her experience highlighted the lack of truly inclusive play spaces in Milwaukee.
Kayla Schultz, City Parks Coordinator, explained that the team met with over a dozen disability advocacy groups, including the Audio Braille Literacy Enhancement and Centers for Independence, to ensure the park
is universally accessible.
Joe Kaltenberg, City Parks Manager, noted that while all parks meet minimum ADA standards, this project aims to be a national model for inclusion by focusing on universal design rather than just adaptive equipment.
The physical playground components are being designed by KOMPAN, the world’s largest playground manufacturer, while Kahler Slater Architects is managing the site endeavor.
The playground will cover approximately 25,000 square feet of playable surface and include a switchback trail to the top of the hill to replace the existing steep path.
The commission specified that the proposed steel slab doors should be replaced with a more historically appropriate design, such as a five-panel door.
The City of Milwaukee contributed an initial $200,000. Through the efforts of Stella’s parents and partners like Kahler Slater, RA Smith, and Mortenson, approximately $1.5 million has been raised toward a $2 million goal.
Ongoing fundraising will continue via MKE Plays and MKE Parks to close the remaining budget gap.
Local neighbors, including Katherine Hannah, Christine Privetti and Nicole Heinle, expressed concerns regarding the scale of the development and its impact on the neighborhood.
Residents raised questions about parking, noting that the area already struggles with congestion during concerts and events.
Joe Kaltenberg, City Parks Manager clarified that there is no plan for off-street parking, but the city intends to create dedicated accessible on-street spots near Meineke and Fratney St.
Neighbors also voiced worries about the maintenance of the bathrooms and the park, citing past issues with trash and safety.
Mr. Kaltenberg assured them that the City of Milwaukee Parks, under the Department of Public Works, has the capacity to manage the site and that the potential concession stand could generate revenue for ongoing maintenance.
Regarding site preservation, Mr. Kaltenberg emphasized that the park's topography will be preserved, and the team is adding trees to maintain the natural, shady environment that neighbors value.
Following the discussion, the commission moved to approve the project with the staff's recommendations, and the motion passed unanimously.
| ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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251648
| 0 | 2. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for mothball status at 2544 N. Sherman Boulevard, in the Sherman Boulevard Historic District for Jennifer Luckett.
Minutes note: Appeared Jennifer Luckett
She requested a six-month "mothball" status for a non-compliant chain link fence.
Ms. Luckett explained that she is currently in a dispute with a neighbor who will not allow her to remove trees on their shared property line that are growing through the fence.
She reported that the neighbor has been uncooperative and even made threats, making it difficult for her to install a compliant privacy fence.
Because of the ongoing situation, she is facing a municipal court date on October 15th regarding city fines for the fence and trees.
The commission approved the six-month extension for the mothball status, which should help mitigate further fines from the Department of Neighborhood Services while she works on a resolution.
The commissioners suggested that Ms. Luckett contact the City Attorney’s office to explain the neighbor's lack of cooperation and the threats she has received. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260559
| 0 | 3. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for replacement of a damaged storefront at 1025-1027 W. Historic Mitchell Street, in the Mitchell Street Historic District for the Ms. Kanchan A. Patel Revocable Trust.
Minutes note: Staff planner Tim Asking explained that a storefront replacement was proposed by the owner following car damage.
The proposed design features a dark anodized bronze aluminum storefront with tile details and spandrel glass in the transom area.
Staff recommends approval with conditions the trim shall be provided for the transom such that only full squares in the design of the spandrel glass are visible. Consider a different tile that has a single color on each surface rather than a gradient. Replace all tile, as the proposed tile is not a replica of the original pattern.
The Commission approved with the staff planner recommendations.
There were no objections.
| ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260608
| 0 | 4. | Resolution | Substitute resolution granting permanent historic designation to the English Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Incarnation at 3509 N. 15th Street and excluding the parsonage at 1510 W. Keefe Avenue, in the 6th Aldermanic District.
Minutes note: Staff planner Tim Askin gave a presentation on the cultural and social history.
The designation specifically excludes the parsonage at 1510 West KeefeAvenue at the request of the applicant to allow for more flexible renovations on that building, which currently serves as a food pantry.
The church, designed by architect Hugo Haeuser in 1923, is a significant example of Neo-Gothic architecture using Lanon Stone.
The property has deep cultural and social significance, particularly regarding its history of racial integration in the 1960s under Pastor Charles Loon, who was a pivotal figure in the city's music school boycotts and anti busing protests.
The church also served as a hub for community organizing following the 1981 death of Ernest Lacy in police custody and was the home of Reverend Dennis Jacobson, a co-founder of MICA (Milwaukee Inner City Churches Allied for Hope).
Staff recommend approval base on criteria F1, F3, F6 and F9 of MCO 320-21(3).
Member Sally Peltz made a motion, seconded by Patricia Keating Kahn, to go into an open public hearing.
Gerald Roesch, vice president of the congregation and a member since 1944, testified in favor of the designation, explaining that it would help the church qualify for grants, such as those for historically Black congregations, to fund an interior elevator and roof repairs.
Member Patricia Keating Kahn made a motion, seconded by Sally Peltz , to go closed the public hearing.
The commission approved the permanent historic designation based on the site's architectural heft, its association with a master architect, and its role in Milwaukee's civil rights history.
| RECOMMENDED FOR ADOPTION AND ASSIGNED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260613
| 0 | 5. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for a new rear deck and new patio doors at 2328 E. Back Bay Street, in the North Point South Historic District for Brewcitybnbs Company.
Minutes note: Appeared Shalonda McCroryre
Staff planner Andrew Stern presented a proposal for a new rear deck and French doors for the Charles Sprague Forsythe House.
The project involves removing a non-historic bay window and replacing it with solid wood doors. The deck will use cedar tongue-and-groove boards, balusters matching the original design, and careful detailing to fit the home’s historic character.
Staff recommends approval with conditions.
| ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260623
| 0 | 6. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for a detached garage at 1060 E. Juneau Avenue, in the First Ward Triangle Historic District for WSP Lion House LLC.
Minutes note: Staff planner Andrew Stern presented a proposal of a new detached garage for the George P. Miller House.
The garage set back, mostly out of street view will match district-scale and be constructed of cream brick with wood carriage-style doors and details.
Lot lines and access easements are being adjusted. The design was carefully evaluated to respect form, materials, and roof lines present in the district.
Staff and applicant will finalize door, light, and trim details, and ensure roofing aesthetics meet Commission standards. No termination bars shall be visible from ground level.
Staff recommends approval with conditions.
| ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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| | | | The following files represent staff approved Certificates of Appropriateness: | | | |
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260558
| 0 | 7. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for chimney flashing, tile roof repair, and tuck pointing at 2401 N. Grant Boulevard, in the Grant Boulevard Historic District for Alleace Fleming. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260559
| 0 | 8. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for replacement of a damaged storefront at 1025-1027 W. Historic Mitchell Street, in the Mitchell Street Historic District for the Ms. Kanchan A. Patel Revocable Trust. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260560
| 0 | 9. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for stucco repair and repair or in-kind replacement of cedar shingles at 2421 N. Terrace Ave., in the North Point North Historic District for Steven Wiesner and Paul Reidinger. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260561
| 0 | 10. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for re-facing an existing monument sign and installing a new wall on the rear of the building at 2133 W. Wisconsin Avenue, the Grand Avenue Congregational Church, an individually designated historic property, for the Sunshine Foundation. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260580
| 0 | 11. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for masonry and gutter repair at 2857 N. Grant Boulevard, in the Grant Boulevard Historic District Jon Zimmerman. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260581
| 0 | 12. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for HVAC installation at 2546 N. Summit Ave., in the North Point North Historic District for Hecht. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260585
| 0 | 13. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for wood replacement fences at 3022 W. State St., in the Concordia Historic District for Christin Peto and AP Chronister. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260600
| 0 | 14. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for landscaping, roof repair and temporary window removal at 2359 N. Wahl Avenue, in the North Point North Historic District for Chris Llop and Lara India. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260601
| 0 | 15. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for a wood fence at 834 N. 26th Street, in the West Avenues West Historic District for Sandra I. Blasini. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260602
| 0 | 16. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for roof shingle replacement at 2717 E. Bradford Avenue, in the North Point North Historic District for Regan Hindman. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260614
| 0 | 17. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for a metal driveway gate at 2585 N. Summit Ave., in the North Point North Historic District for Nicholas Porter. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260624
| 0 | 18. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for spot siding repair and replacement at 1814 N. 1st Street, in the Brewers Hill Historic District for 1814 1st Street, LLC. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260669
| 0 | 19. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for roof repairs at 3107 W. Kilbourn Avenue, in the Concordia Historic District, Brian Scotty. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260685
| 0 | 20. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for landscaping modifications at the Milwaukee Auditorium (High Life Theater) and Milwaukee Arena (Panther Arena), at 400 - 500 W. Kilbourn Avenue, an individually designated complex for the Wisconsin Center District. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260687
| 0 | 21. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for reconstruction of the tennis courts in Lake Park at 3233 E Newberry Boulevard, in the North Point North Historic District, for Milwaukee County Parks. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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260689
| 0 | 22. | Resolution | Resolution relating to a Certificate of Appropriateness for roof replacement for shed dormer and dormer repair at 2635 N. Terrace Ave., in the North Point North Historic District for Dewey J. Caton and Patrick W. Schmidt, trustees. | ADOPTED | Pass | 6:0 |
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| | 23. | | Review and approval of the minutes from the August 3rd meeting.
Minutes note: Member Ann Pieper Eisenbrown moved, second by Nicholas Hans Robinson approval of the minutes.
There were no objections. | | | |
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260666
| 0 | 24. | Resolution | Resolution relating to the Certified Local Government review of the National Register of Historic Places nomination for the Greyhound Terminal and Office Building (Clark Oil Building) at 633 W. Wisconsin Ave, in the 4th Aldermanic District.
Minutes note: Staff planner Andrew Stern clarified that the nomination is based on historical significance related to mid 20th-century transportation history in Milwaukee, rather than architectural merit.
The presentation highlighted the rise of bus travel in the 1920s, with Greyhound serving Milwaukee by 1931. By 1940, bus services had become a primary mode of transportation, seeing 146,000 annual passengers.
By 1954, Milwaukee had three separate bus depots, which led to significant passenger and luggage confusion. The 1957 mayoral directive sought to build consolidated parking pavilions to address downtown traffic issues caused by the new interstate system.
The Greyhound Terminal was one of the first major examples of a consolidated parking structure attached to a downtown office tower, predating or coinciding with similar developments like the M&I Building and Marine Bank.
The building was designed by the Memphis firm Robert Lee Hall and Associates and developed by Bloomfield Building Industries of Memphis.
The bus terminal portion opened in February 1965, serving over 200 buses a day from Greyhound, Wisconsin Coach Lines, and the Peoria Rockford Bus Company. It featured amenities such as a Post House snack bar and a Greyhound Travel Bureau.
Greyhound maintained operations in the building until 2017, and the Clark family owned their portion of the property until that same year.
Staff recommended supporting the nomination base on criterion A: Transportation History.
| ADOPTED | Pass | 5:0 |
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260718
| 0 | 25. | Resolution | Resolution relating to the Certified Local Government review of the National Register of Historic Places nomination for the Milwaukee County Department of Welfare at 1220 W. Vliet Street, in the 15th Aldermanic District.
Minutes note: Staff planner Andrew Stern presented the National Register nomination for the Milwaukee County Department of Welfare building.
The building was originally constructed for Schuster’s department store in 1910, with a major addition in 1923 designed by architects Brust and Philipp.
Schuster’s closed the store in 1961, and the Milwaukee County Department of Welfare moved into the building in 1963 due to overcrowding at the county courthouse.
The nomination is being submitted under Criterion A for its significance in social history, politics, and government, rather than for its architectural merits.
The designated period of significance for the building spans from 1963 to 1986, reflecting the era it served as a hub for welfare services.
The site is historically important for its association with the growth of welfare programs and the civil rights movement in Milwaukee, particularly its proximity to residents displaced from Bronzeville by urban renewal and highway projects.
During the 1960s and 1970s, the building was a focal point for social tension, hosting numerous protests and sit-ins staged by citizens seeking cash assistance and challenging discriminatory eligibility requirements.
Investigative journalism in the 1970s revealed internal mismanagement and illegal practices within the department, including staff ineptitude and the illegal sale of food stamp benefits.
These controversies led to the 1974 calls for welfare reform and state mandated audits for counties with populations over 100,000.
The period of significance ends in 1986, coinciding with major federal and state policy shifts and a $9.3 million cut in federal funding that occurred in 1983.
The building is currently undergoing a renovation led by Gorman and Company to convert the space into workforce and affordable housing.
Most of the building's current interior finishes date back to a 1986 renovation, the only surviving elements from the Schuster’s era are the escalators and specific sections of the basement flooring.
Staff recommended supporting the National Register nomination based on the building's political and governmental history.
Criterion A: Politics/Gorvernment.
| ADOPTED | Pass | 5:0 |
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| | 26. | | Updates and announcements.
Minutes note: The Wisconsin Local History and Historic Preservation Conference is scheduled for
October 14th through 16th in downtown Milwaukee. | | | |
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| | | | Meeting adjourned at 4:57 pm
Carmen O. Roman
This meeting can be viewed in its entirety through the City's Legislative Research
Center at http://milwaukee.legistar.com/calendar. | | | |
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