Milwaukee Mayor Gives State of the City Address

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett delivered the state of the city address on Monday morning at the Harley Davidson Museum.

Mayor Barrett spoke about several issues during his speech.

MILWAUKEE’S HOUSING INITIATIVES

Mayor Barrett spoke about tackling housing challenges in Milwaukee.

Since 2009, the City has invested $163 million to tackle housing challenges.

“We are helping families put down roots. We're building strength in neighborhoods. We're adding value for the entire city,” said Barrett.

Barrett, also, spoke about predatory landlords and the city’s legal efforts to stop them.

SAFETY ISSUES

Milwaukee Police Department’s budget is $38 million more than the property tax levy.

In 2016, Milwaukee Police took 2,419 firearms off the street.

Barrett said the issue of repeat offenders is unacceptable.

“It means we are spending millions of dollars,” said Barrett.

Barrett went on to say that there has to be real consequences that have a real impact on young reoffenders.

Milwaukee County and Milwaukee Police Department will be sharing real time GPS information on young offenders.

“This is a community based effort,” said Barrett.

Last year there were over 500 non-fatal shootings.

Milwaukee Firefighters were called to those scenes, and there was a shooting at a station in February.

SHERMAN PARK

Mayor Barrett moved on from safety to discuss the unrest that occurred in Sherman Park.

Barrett said the violence of last summer in Sherman Park should not be ignored.

“History, diversity and culture are all strong in Sherman Park,” said Barrett.

Barrett said there are people in the community are hurting and it needs to be addressed.

Barrett thanked the pastors for helping in Sherman Park to calm the tension.

He mentioned the BMO Harris Bank being rebuilt in Sherman Park.

STRONG BABY MKE

Barrett moved on to speak about eliminating the racial disparity in birth outcomes.

“Today I have an exciting announcement 12 of the Strong Baby of MKE Sanctuaries will be launching Blanket of Love programs,” said Barrett.