Milwaukee Biz Blog

2008 Inaugural Address of Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett
Delivered Tuesday, April 15, 2008

 

Thank you all. I will make my comments brief or else it'll be time to start on the next
inauguration.

Fellow Milwaukeeans and special guests, I am honored to stand before you today as I
begin my second term as your mayor.

Serving as Milwaukee's 40th mayor - your mayor - has been the greatest honor of my
life. I want to thank my wife Kris and my children Tommy, Annie, Erin and Kate for
being here today and for their support. I also want to thank my brother John and my
niece and nephew who are also here with me.

When I took office four years ago, I gave you my promise to make Milwaukee a safer,
stronger city for every resident. I promised to address our issues head on - from
economic development to public safety - and to lead regional cooperation efforts on
issues such as job creation and protecting our environment.

Together we've made incredible progress. I'm proud of the accomplishments and strides
made over the past four years. From the 11,000 jobs we've been able to leverage to the
public spaces we've reclaimed for our neighbors, Milwaukee is growing stronger every
day.

We are making differences in the lives of Milwaukeeans block-by-block. And our efforts
have just begun.

Public Safety
I've worked hard to build partnerships among law enforcement, community groups,
residents and businesses to reduce crime in Milwaukee's neighborhoods. I've said it
before and I'll say it again: For anyone who wants to work to address the issue of public
safety in our city, there is a seat for you at my table.

Last week I called for a special session in Madison to address the issue of violent crime,
specifically to request action on the issues of illegal guns, tougher sentencing and
resources for prosecutors. Action on these items is critical to our efforts.

• How many more children will be at either end of a gun?
• How many more officers will be shot at?
• How many more funerals will there be in this city before action is taken to stem
  the tide of illegal guns in our city?

We have got to have stiffer penalties for felons and others who think little of selling,
carrying or using illegal guns to terrorize our residents. We must find out where these
guns are coming from and give law enforcement, prosecutors and courts the resources
they need to get the illegal guns and the people who use them out of this community.
And we must do so soon. We cannot wait.

Jobs and Economic Development
As we work to make our city safer, we must make sure that there are family-supporting
jobs for every resident. And we simply must do a better job of ending the poverty that
afflicts too many in our community, including children.

That is why we will continue to tailor job training and placement through the Milwaukee
Area Workforce Investment Board and to make strategic use of our available land to
grow and expand business opportunities in the City that will create more jobs.

I want to mirror our success in the Menomonee Valley in the 30th Street Industrial
Corridor. I want to continue the progress in the Park East where we currently have the
“bookends” – the new Manpower Headquarters and the Flatiron Building to the east and
the Brewery Project to the west.

I want to continue to grow our Youth Employment program because as adults we have a
moral responsibility to create hope in the lives of our young people. And I will continue
to look to create more green jobs so that residents for generations to come will have
gainful employment opportunities in Milwaukee.

 

Property Tax Relief
With gainful employment comes economic prosperity, including the opportunity to have
a piece of the American dream - home ownership.

We have kept our promise to hold the line on property taxes - our annual levy has
increased less than the state average and less than Milwaukee County in recent years.

But still, City of Milwaukee homeowners are paying 20 percent more of the property tax
burden than they were 30 years ago.

I know that there are budget problems at the state and federal level but it's time to look at
options besides raising taxes and fees on our own residents to pay for municipal programs
and services.

I will continue to do my part and fight for Milwaukee taxpayers.

We were finally able to pass state legislation to stop paying fired police officers charged
with crimes - a practice that was costing Milwaukee taxpayers millions of dollars. Now
we can focus on the best of the best in our Police Department, not the worst of the worst.

We must do the same and finally fix the school choice funding flaw, which is currently
costing property taxpayers in Milwaukee about $200 more a year. No matter your
feelings on the merits of the Choice program, there is no question that the financing of it
has brought additional undue burden to homeowners in Milwaukee.

This is not about school choice, it's about equitable funding for education and REAL
property tax relief. It is time to do right by our residents and fix the funding flaw.

We have so much going for us, but we have many needs. We must look outside
government to fund those pressing needs. There are a great many individuals and
foundations prepared to invest resources to strengthen our community. For months I
have worked behind the scenes with these entities.

My mission is to mobilize them with good ideas, strong proposals and the promise that
our shared commitment to our great City will yield positive results. In the coming weeks
we can expect announcements on significant private investments in Milwaukee.

 

Education
Never before in our city's history has education mattered more than it does today.
Last week I was at Masterlock where I was told that within five years, one-third of its
workforce will retire.

A competitive Milwaukee demands a ready, prepared workforce that can meet the needs
of the companies already located here and those we wish to bring in the future. We need
to do a better job ensuring our young people are prepared to fill those positions if
Milwaukee is to thrive in a competitive, global economy.

We have some really good schools in Milwaukee with dedicated teachers committed to
creating a better future for our students. But we can't sugarcoat the situation. Too many
students are not progressing as they should be.

We already have a high MPS property tax levy. There is a fundamental question that
needs to be addressed about how MPS and other large systems fundamentally adapt and
serve educational needs that are far different today than they were 30 years ago.

We also have to do a better job of working with parents to provide better, more
supportive households for children. We need stronger families and a clearer moral
compass. That means reducing teen pregnancies and getting fathers more involved in
their children’s lives.

Conclusion
As we move forward today, each of us must commit ourselves to a better, stronger
Milwaukee. This is the best job I’ve ever had. It is the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.
But it’s also the most challenging.

Serving the men and women of this community - my home and the city I love - is an
honor and a privilege.

Thank you for your trust and your partnership in moving our city forward.

A quality future labor force is one of the most critical issues facing the Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin economies. That's why we believe it's time to act together to prepare young people for careers. The Earn & Learn program is a key element of our community's strategy to accomplish this important goal.

Earn & Learn, Milwaukee's summer jobs program for young people aged 16 to 21, is a community-wide effort to create a future workforce of young people who are life-long learners, productive workers and self-sufficient citizens. Earn & Learn is a collaborative partnership with employers, community-based organizations, the Milwaukee Area Workforce Investment Board and the City of Milwaukee.

In 2008, Earn & Learn's Private Sector Job Connection will improve work-readiness skills by providing  private sector summer work experience for 1,000 Milwaukee teens.  You can help by creating one or more summer jobs for youth at your company. With your involvement, students will perform meaningful work that benefits their employers, themselves, their families and their community.

We've made it easy for your company to participate. Just log-on to our website, www.earnandlearnmke.com and click on the Private Sector Job Connection icon.  Use the site to:

• Post summer job opportunities within your company for qualified youth.
• Get information about kids who want to work and who have already been screened by a youth-serving agency.
• Register for free training to better integrate teens into your workplace.
• Explore links to resources to help your youngest workers become smarter, better-trained and more productive.

 

Palermo's Pizza has made a commitment to create 15 jobs. We're planning to provide each student with an alarm clock, two uniform T-shirts and weekly work-readiness sessions.

Your company is free to provide whatever "extras" you choose. We urge you to join Palermo's and many other employers across Milwaukee that have agreed to hire young people for jobs this summer. There are thousands of teens eager and ready to work for you this summer.

For more information, contact William Malone, Department of City Development youth development coordinator, at (414) 286-5894 or william.malone@milwaukee.gov.

The past few months have seen much debate over the 27th Street exit on Interstate 894 as part of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s reconstruction and expansion project of I-94 from the Mitchell Interchange to the state border.

The debate is an important one, impacting people's homes and businesses. With much at stake, the debate has become understandably heated. The problem with heated debates, however, is that often times facts get fried.

First and foremost, there is a belief that as a result of this plan, the 27th Street exit will be closed completely. This statement is misleading and fails to tell the whole story.

While it is true that the exit to 27th Street along westbound I-894 for traffic coming from the south will close under current WisDOT plans, all other access to South 27th Street will remain as it does today. As the Small Business Times reported in the BizTimes Real Estate Weekly bulletin, “Southbound traffic coming from the downtown area and eastbound traffic coming from the west would still be able to exit at 27th Street.” Businesses and homes along 27th Street will remain completely accessible to those exits.

This is an important point, because the access points that will remain open to 27th Street are those most heavily traveled. According to information from our city engineer, approximately 16,000 vehicles exit I-894 via S. 27th Street every day, but only 1,500 of those cars – less than 10 percent - utilize the exit that would be closed.

This means the vast majority of vehicles that currently use the 27th Street exit to reach the homes and businesses along this corridor will still be able to under the current plan.

Second, I cannot support a plan that destroys people's homes. The alternate proposal WisDOT considered in an effort to maintain full access at South 27th Street would have required the demolition of ten single-family homes and two 8-unit apartment buildings.

Forcing people from their homes and reducing the city’s property tax base are not alternatives I can support. That is why I have - from day one of this project - urged the state Department of Transportation to design a freeway that not only improves safety and the flow of traffic, but one that avoids the destruction of people's homes.

Which leads to the third and final point: the City of Milwaukee has been engaged throughout this process and has consistently urged WisDOT to produce a plan for 27th Street that is fair to business owners and residents in the area. My commissioner of public works and my city engineer made this point in a letter to WisDOT on Aug. 21, 2007, and in conversations throughout the 27th Street debate. My message has been perfectly clear: keep 27th Street fully open, AND don't destroy people's homes.

Any suggestion that the City of Milwaukee has not fought for this issue is either unfair or uninformed. I understand that when people's businesses and homes are involved, debate can become heated and facts can get fried. But cooler heads must prevail.

As mayor, I will continue to push WisDOT for a plan that keeps all of 27th Street open AND saves people's homes. Those who agree should stand with me.

Tom Barret is the mayor of Milwaukee.

Editor's Note: The following is the full text of Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett's State of the City Address, which was delivered this morning.

Fellow Milwaukeeans and special guests, I am honored to stand before you today to
present my fourth State of our City Address.
Ladies and gentlemen, the state of our city is officially SNOWY.
Thank you to Alderman Robert Puente for hosting us in your district.
Also, I want to say a special thank you to Bob Hillis and his team for his introduction and
for hosting us here at Direct Supply.
Two years ago, I announced a partnership with Bob and the state of Wisconsin that would
keep Direct Supply in Milwaukee and afford it the opportunity to expand and add 1,500
jobs.
The City created a $13 million financial package to make this project possible and as a
result, we are retaining and adding high-quality, high-tech jobs to our local economy.
I want you all to know that companies like Direct Supply, who choose to remain and
grow in the City of Milwaukee, have strong partners at City Hall.
When I took office nearly four years ago, Milwaukee needed an infusion of economic
development financing and additional resources directed to public safety and our
neighborhoods.
Since that time, I have worked with Common Council President Willie Hines, Finance
Chair Michael Murphy and the Common Council to aggressively deploy public resources
and economic development tools to put us on track for continued growth.
And it shows.

Last year, Milwaukee's quality living standards inspired theAARP to recognize
Milwaukee as one of the top five cities in America for people to retire.
Forbes.com recognized Milwaukee as one of the best cities for young professionals in the
country, and ranked us the 6th most affordable place to live well in America.
Also in 2007, Dow Jones Marketwatch looked at factors such as concentration of top
companies, unemployment rates, and job creation to rank the top cities for business
centers.
As a result, Milwaukee was ranked 18th - 18th-best in the nation – besting bigger cities
like Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Phoenix.
And the good news continues.
My Administration has leveraged over 11,000 jobs in the City of Milwaukee over the last
four years.
In 2007 alone we were able to create over 2,600 new jobs and retain over 2,000 more,
increasing the number of employed residents in the City by 2,191 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
That number ranks Milwaukee higher than Minneapolis, Baltimore, New York, Philadelphia, Indianapolis, Cleveland and others.
After years of declining population and listening to the doomsday scenarios, I decided it was time to challenge the U.S. Census Bureau over our population.
So last year, we put a team together, filed the challenge and we won.
The acknowledged increase of over 30,000 residents reverberates beyond city government.
With that adjustment, Milwaukee jumped Boston, Seattle, and Washington, D.C. in the ranks of America's largest cities.
In addition to the impact on federal aid, this victory also paints a positive portrait of Milwaukee.
We've worked hard to achieve these successes.
Together with the Common Council, I have directed resources to create the strongest police department in a decade.
At the same time, I am leading efforts such as Safe Streets Milwaukee, the Community Justice Council, Common Ground and the Homicide Review Commission.

This year, I will be working with the Medical College of Wisconsin and our Health Department to develop a public health strategy to address violence prevention.
As I see it, there has never been a better time for unity and partnership in our city to address crime and violence.
We have a new police chief. For those of you who have not met him, I would like to introduce Chief Ed Flynn.
Chief Flynn has already begun to implement district policing plans. We have launched plans in the 2nd, 3rd, 5th, and 6th districts. The 4th and 7th district plans will be announced soon.
The strong partnerships that have been developed with the U.S. Attorney, Department of Corrections, District Attorney, city departments and community organizations are paying off.
We're going to target the criminals. And with the resources our law enforcement partners bring to the table, we are going to take back our public spaces and maintain a police presence to ensure order.
We're going to focus on licensed premises and nuisance properties and we're going to step up our efforts keep an eye on offenders released onto our streets.
Milwaukee Police Officers have tough jobs.
Every day presents demands and stresses that only members of the force and their families can comprehend.
On Nov. 6th, 2007, two Milwaukee police officers were shot in the line of duty. Officer Alejandro Arce and Jose Lopez were responding to a shooting of two teenagers on the city's south side when they were shot at by a 15-year old with a semi-automatic handgun.
I'm happy to say that these two men are here with us today, along with Officer Pat Pajet who was in squad car at the time and administered first aid. Please join me in thanking all three of them for their selfless service on our behalf.
Another critical public safety partner is our Fire Department, led by our new Fire Chief, Doug Holton, a Milwaukee native who joined us last June from St. Paul. Chief Holton, welcome home.

The members of Milwaukee's fire department have much to be proud of, yet get very little attention for the work they do.
Let me give you a couple of examples.
On the morning of August 31, 2007, four children aged two to nine, were trapped on the second floor of a house fire on North Holton Street. Lieutenant Michael Nowak of Engine Company 21, while gearing up to enter the residence heard the children frantically screaming for help. Immediately, Lt. Nowak jumped over fire on the first floor and carried two of the children to safety.
As a result, Lieutenant Nowak sustained second-degree burns on his hands.
Please join me in honoring Lt. Nowak for his heroism during this rescue. Just this past Monday night, Firefighter Jason Oberg and Fire Lieutenant William Echeverria, two of our finest paramedics, saw an armed robbery in progress.
They put their lives on the line and went after the suspect -- they caught him, held him, and made sure the victim was safe until police arrived.
We thank these men and all the men and women who serve our city in every capacity, including all those snow and salt operations folks at DPW– they are working around the clock to deal with the tremendous amount of snow and ice this winter.
I'm grateful for your commitment and thankful for your tremendous service on behalf of our residents.
Now, let's get to business.
Like our nation, our city's economy is entering a period of uncertainty. Foreclosures as a result of unscrupulous sub-prime lending are looming. Fuel and healthcare costs are increasing.
I know that people in the City expect value for services provided.
And many feel that their property taxes are high enough.
I will maintain my promise to hold the line on taxes while constantly looking for efficiencies in City government without sacrificing performance.
I have made a promise to the people of this City to make Milwaukee safer and stronger.

Through neighborhood improvements, advancements in public safety, progress on economic development and a heightened effort to connect more workers to jobs, I am doing just that.
We are certainly headed in the right direction but there is more work to be done.
One year ago, I announced my intention for the City to take the lead on workforce development for our region.
I was pleased that Governor Doyle granted our request and since we took the helm on July 1, we've worked to transform the system to be more demand-driven and customer responsive.
This spring, I will launch the Milwaukee Business Services Unit. This unit will provide employers and businesses seeking workers with a single point of contact.
My goal is to make it quick and easy for businesses tomeet their immediate needs as well as for Milwaukee to attract new businesses to our great City.
As we look to our regional economic needs, Next Generation Manufacturing is an integral part of our competitive advantage in a global economy.
I am working with the Milwaukee Area Workforce Investment Board and its regional partners to prepare our local workforce for these opportunities.
Our location on America's Fresh Coast and the fact that we are home to a number of progressive companies like Johnson Controls, Rockwell Automation, Badger Meter, and others, uniquely positions us to retool our workforce.
We want to prepare future workers for jobs and careers in green manufacturing, green construction and energy conservation.
We know there is no better solution to poverty than good, family supporting jobs. I want to ensure Milwaukee has the best Career Opportunity Centers in the country. I want to continue to get young people energized and working, to create hope in their lives and prepare them for a successful future.
Last year was the third year of my Summer Youth Jobs program, which has placed thousands of high school students in summer jobs in city government, the private sector and non-profit organizations.
I see Alderman Joe Davis here today, a great partner in this effort.I want to build on the success of this program. Today I am announcing my year-round Youth Employment Initiative.
Through this initiative, we will create 1,550 summer jobs and year-round opportunities
for young people in the City.
Over the course of this year we will be launching a series of programs aimed at working with community and faith-based partners to reach out to these young people.
I strongly encourage business owners to hire young people for summer or year-round jobs.
As adults, we have a responsibility to create hope in the lives of our children.
Members of our workforce team are here today and have with them pledge cards for this year's youth employment program.
I encourage all of you who have the ability of putting one young person to work ... or 20, or 100 ... to stop by and fill out a pledge card.
Let's set a new record for hiring our young people this year.
Just as we are improving the landscape for residents to find jobs, we are working to promote and support small business ownership in Milwaukee.
Last year, we developed an action plan for reforming the Emerging Business Enterprise program to foster local small business and job growth.
As a result of our efforts, certifications of new Emerging Business Enterprises increased by 28% last year - demonstrating strong small business growth and development in the City.
Milwaukee is the hub for our regional and state economy, and we must ensure that our City contracting dollars benefit our local businesses.
I am working with the Common Council to increase the EBE requirement on construction contracts from 18 to 25 percent.
I also want to adopt a local business standard that will give companies right here in Milwaukee a 5 percent incentive when they bid city contracts.
To prepare residents with the ability to obtain family-supporting jobs, we must empower
each school-aged child with the tools to learn and grow.

Through our public library system, we are helping children develop pre-reading skills to improve literacy.
Librarians and volunteers are tutoring city schoolchildren and providing counseling on college and career options.
Today I am announcing a partnership with the "I Have a Dream"® Foundation on a program to help children from low-income areas reach their education and career goals.
Thanks to a generous contribution by Ted and Mary Kellner, we have secured the initial investment necessary to provide the entire incoming first-grade class of Clarke Street Elementary School in Metcalfe Park with the opportunity to be our first class of "dreamers."
The project will work with these children and their families from elementary school through college to ensure their success.
Their prospects are promising.
In communities with low graduation rates, “I Have a Dream” participants are graduating at rates of 80 to 100 percent.
I also want to thank the others who've stepped up to make this possible: Legacy Bank, the Brinn Foundation, the Weiss Family Foundation and the Herzfeld Foundation.
As residents benefit from increased education and employment opportunities, families will become stronger.
This is central to our success as a city.
Strong families provide a source for an individual moral compass and a sense of personal responsibility.
We must work hard to empower the men and women of our community to create nurturing, supportive families.
In 2007, we hosted the 2nd Fatherhood Summit.
With the help of the Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative Executive Committee and its many partners, we empowered 2,500 men who came together to share ideas about how to be a better parent and re-engage with their children.
Plans are already underway to grow and formalize this initiative thanks to a grant from
the Milwaukee Foundation.

We continue to make progress on our efforts to improve children's health and reduce our infant mortality rate.
One year after Columbia-St. Mary's and the University of Wisconsin awarded the Milwaukee Health Department almost $1 million for a home visitation program for pregnant first-time moms, the Nurse Family Partnership is up and running.
Thanks to a grant from the CDC and the hard work of the Health Department and collaboration with MPS, our immunization rates are up almost 20 percent.
Now close to two thirds of all MPS students are meeting minimum immunization requirements prior to entering school.
Thanks to strong partnerships with property owners and grants from HUD, we are making great progress on eradicating childhood lead poisoning.
This year, the Health Department will complete another 1,775 lead-safe housing units in the City of Milwaukee.
I've already touched on some of the good news about Milwaukee's economy and there is more.
I frequently point to our success in the Menomonee Valley, a model of economic transformation and environmental sustainability.
What formerly was Wisconsin's largest Brownfield is today the home of 2,100 new jobs and growing.
The Valley represents economic and environmental renewal.
Last year, Milwaukee's MenomoneeValley was named one of the nation's top ten renewal projects by the Sierra Club.
I have announced my intention to recreate this success in the 30th Street Industrial Corridor.
With the leadership of Common Council members Willie Wade and Ashanti Hamilton, we declared the 30th Street Corridor our 'Greenlight' District – a place where I want public investment to leverage private investment.
Since declaring the Corridor a priority, we've directed $19.6 million in public funds to the
area and leveraged another $19.9 million in private investment.
To further strengthen the city's south side neighborhoods, last month I signed legislation that will pump $3.1 million into projects that will revitalize the Historic Mitchell Street commercial district and several adjacent residential neighborhoods.

This will keep Mitchell Street an active, thriving shopping area. Funds will be used to renovate landmark commercial buildings, like the former Goldman's Department Store and the Modjeska Theater.
The project is possible because the City has a strong partner in the Historic Mitchell Street business improvement district.
I've also signed legislation championed by Alderman TerryWitkowski to create a garden district to highlight the importance of the city's southern gateway.
Another sign of our dedication to the continued Milwaukee Renaissance is our commitment to Bronzeville, a cultural and entertainment district to spark revitalization along West North Avenue.
To strengthen the neighborhood, the City made 26 vacant lots available for $1 for new home construction.
Last month we broke ground on one of the first new homes to be built in Bronzeville.
Manpower employee Tara Ali wanted to live closer to her job at the new Manpower International World Headquarters downtown. Tara is now on her way to owning a piece of the American dream.
We must empower all city residents by providing them with opportunities for home ownership and entrusting them with the responsibilities that come with it.
In the City of Milwaukee last year, we sustained almost the same number of new single-family homes that we did during the building boom of 2005.
But, as we continue to weather turbulent times in the national housing market, I have directed my Administration to do everything possible to stem the tide of foreclosures in our city.
Now, let's talk transit.
One of the most powerful economic development tools any city can utilize to create new opportunities is a modern, integrated transportation system that unites the region and connects workers to jobs.
As a community we must confront the stark reality that our current transit systems stands on the precipice of disaster.
2008 marked the 7th consecutive year the current transit system either cut routes, raised fares – or both.
We all know that if our system proceeds on its current path, it will be forced to slash service by almost 35% in just a few short years.
No major city can thrive and flourish without a modern transportation system that serves those who must get to and from a job.
I have proposed a plan for a modern transportation system that moves our region forward.
The plan is financed by $91.5 million in federal funds set aside more than 16 years ago to improve mass transit in Milwaukee - dollars that have gone unused for far too long.
We cannot stand by and watch these critical funds go to another community while we continue to waste the opportunity to modernize and improve our ailing, outdated system.
While other plans have been introduced, my plan is the only one that offers a commonsense compromise that fully utilizes these federal dollars and will provide the Comprehensive Transit Strategy that Milwaukee needs.
Our community has waited far too long.
The time has come for the key stakeholders to come together, find middle ground and reach an agreement on a new vision for our transit system.
While we work to improve transportation in the City of Milwaukee, we must also strive to implement a more strategic and thoughtful approach to transit throughout Southeast Wisconsin.
Recently the State approved a $1.9 billion expansion of I-94 from the Mitchell Interchange down to the Illinois State Line.
This would be the most expensive road construction project in Wisconsin's history.
At the same time, important mass transit initiatives like the Kenosha-Racine-Milwaukee Commuter Rail Line, and expansion of high-speed intercity rail along the heavily traveled Milwaukee-Chicago route to places like Madison and up to the Twin Cities, remain stalled.
No one is saying that the State should stop investing in highway construction.
It is time, however, to strike a balance between highway investments and transit improvements.

I thank Governor Doyle for his commitment to AMTRAK and our daily train service between Milwaukee and Chicago. Without a doubt, that investment is paying huge dividends for our local and state economy.
It's time to apply the success of the Milwaukee to Chicago AMTRAK service to the region's other transit needs.
At a time when energy costs and environmental concerns are at the forefront of the domestic agenda, shouldn't we be demanding that integrated transportation planning become a reality here?
Why is it that when the big transportation plans are rolled out, the only thing being advanced is a highway or freeway expansion?
Let's look at other states.
The Colorado Department of Transportation included transit alternatives when planning for the expansion of the I-70 corridor through metro-Denver.
The Florida Transportation Department is taking the lead role in planning a 61-mile commuter rail line in Central Florida.
Maryland has a State Transit Administration which operates and funds commuter and regional transit lines.
Virginia makes a substantial investment in regional transportation as do other states.
Our region's growth must be planned with multi-modal transportation options - options that are presented fairly, accurately and with the same vigor and support as current highway plans are.
As I wrap up this morning, you can see how all our efforts on behalf of the residents and businesses in Milwaukee are paying off.
We will continue to seek empowerment from our state and federal government to provide for and protect our taxpayers on issues such as the school choice funding flaw and police pay.
But before I conclude today, I want to address two issues that demand our attention and our collective action.
The first is the Great Lakes Compact. Wisconsin must pass it.
If there is a resource our City and region cannot afford to put in jeopardy, it's Lake Michigan Water.
I understand that there are legislators, interest groups and individuals who would like to weaken the Compact guidance that was recommended by the Great Lakes Governors.
To do so would be a mistake.
The management of the Great Lakes basin is a multi-state, two-country proposition. To say otherwise ignores the geo-political reality of the Great Lakes region.
Diversions and water sales are complex business.
If you don't believe me, pick up a copy of the latest issue of National Geographic and read the article on the Drying of the Western States.
In 25 to 50 years, the fight over the Colorado River Basin could lead to our front door. The boom in the desert will not go on indefinitely.
Not everything in the Compact is ideal but I am willing to work with it as long as water is returned to the basin and Milwaukee continues to grow economically within the region.
Now, I have very serious reservations regarding an approval process that involves the Southeast Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission.
Unless the make-up of the Commission changes to reflect the population of the City of Milwaukee, I would be hard-pressed to rely on SEWRPC to protect Milwaukee's interests.
That said, Wisconsin needs to pass a strong Compact and needs to do so now. The second issue that we must address is illegal guns.
In recent DAYS we have again been confronted by a string of shootings in our neighborhoods.
I have been an outspoken advocate of strengthening Wisconsin's gun laws for a long time.
I have brought the issue to you at the three previous States of the City addresses.
I have met with legislators, the Governor and have gone in front of community groups and churches to get something done.

Thugs with guns are bad for Milwaukee. I'm all for locking up anyone who uses a gun to commit a crime - lock them up for a long time.
But we have to stop the flow of illegal handguns into our neighborhoods and into the hands of folks whose only intent is to use that gun to commit a robbery, a murder or to shoot up someone's home or car.
It's just too easy to get an illegal handgun in Milwaukee.
Last year, we took more than 2,700 guns off the streets. In the last four years, more than 10,000 guns have been seized.
That's excellent police work. But it also highlights the insane level of illegal guns out there.
We have got to close the gun show loop hole. All gun sales have to be subject to background checks.
We must be able to trace guns used in crimes back to their purchasers.
We need to know where the illegal guns are coming from and who's selling them. I can't get this done alone. I need your help.
I need you to make this a priority.
Please contact your elected officials in Madison and tell them to work to get the illegal guns off Milwaukee's streets...
It's true that we face challenges, but together we can work to find solutions to continue to keep Milwaukee on a positive forward trajectory.
After all, it is the people of Milwaukee who make our city a great place.
That was evidenced when 4,000 local residents volunteered during the National Veterans Wheelchair Games last year - a stunning outpouring of compassion and hospitality that helped Milwaukee earn the 2007 Most Patriotic City award from the Paralyzed Vets of America.
Phil Rosenburg with the Wisconsin Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America is here today. I want to recognize him and thank the Wheelchair Games for choosing Milwaukee. Come back anytime!
The games exemplified the tremendous spirit of the people of Milwaukee. It's that spirit that will keep us moving forward.

 

Editor's note: The following blog was written by Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett in response to comments made by five local chief executive officers during a Public Policy Forum last Thursday. The comments, which criticized Milwaukee as a place to do business, were summarized in a Milwaukee Biz Blog written by Small Business Times executive editor Steve Jagler last Friday.

 

I don't believe we are "own worst enemy." We have leaders in business, higher education and government who not only call Milwaukee home but who work tirelessly to move Milwaukee forward.

In the last three-and-a-half years, we have seen, first-hand, the results of true partnerships.

Despite the City's limited capital and operating funds, I have been aggressive in the use of Tax Incremental Financing, New Market Tax Credits and Renewal Community Grants. We have made substantial investments in retaining and attracting companies that add value to our community. Companies like Manpower, Direct Supply, and DRS. We have turned around the Menomonee Valley, and we have a large investment in the revitalization of the old Pabst Brewery site. As I write this, the City is preparing an investment strategy for the 30th Street Industrial Corridor (see this week's cover story in Small Business Times).

We are on the move with a new School of Public Health, the Harley Museum and millions of dollars being invested in the Fifth Ward, Mitchell Street and Bronzeville.

None of the above would have happened without a firm belief that Milwaukee is a good place to invest, a place to call home.

I have sought to increase the pool of qualified workers by investing in programs that improve workforce development. In 2006, I utilized the City's Development Fund to make a grant to Bucyrus International to fund job training for welders. 

Last year, I requested the City of Milwaukee be designated the lead on Workforce Development for our region and am working hard to link employers to area residents in need of family supporting jobs.

I too believe that we need to invest in regional transportation. Milwaukee and the region would benefit from commuter rail, fast trains and an overhaul of local transit systems.

But Milwaukee is not in China, where the national government not only holds the power of the purse but also the power of the infrastructure investment decisions.

For Milwaukee and our region to move forward on a multi-modal investment strategy, we're going to have to follow the lead of Atlanta, Phoenix and a host of other metro-regions where business leaders and elected officials invested time, money and talent in a concentrated effort to move multi-modal, regional  transportation from the idea stage to reality.

Our regional economy does not operate according to municipal boundaries. That's why I've invested greatly in building a regional approach. The Milwaukee 7 is a comprehensive approach to integrating public and private economic development tools that will aid the region in recruitment, retention, attraction and expansion of business.

 

The City and region have multiple challenges and issues that we must continue to address. We will move forward. We have the resources and the will to do so. And, despite a few comments made at a luncheon, we are poised for a greater and better future.

 

To those who want to accept that challenge, my door is open.  I would welcome the help in fighting for an improved business climate for our city where we could more easily attract, retain and expand job opportunities.

 

Tom Barrett is the Mayor of the City of Milwaukee.

Ironically, the Assembly has entitled their budget proposal the "Property Taxpayer Protection plan."

In reality, it's nothing more than a property taxpayer sham.

With critical city services like police, fire and libraries on the line, the Assembly Republicans have decided to toss aside the bipartisan recommendation for a $15 million increase in state shared revenue.

Pouring salt on the wound, the Assembly Republicans have decided to saddle Milwaukee homeowners with an additional $13 million burden to pay for the Parental School Choice Program.

And this proposal continues to force Milwaukee to pay the salaries of cops convicted of a crime. The police officers convicted in the Jude case alone have cost Milwaukee taxpayers $474,970.24 in pay and benefits since they were fired.

That's not a protection plan – that's a sham for Milwaukee taxpayers.

Tom Barrett is the mayor of the City of Milwaukee.

 

Dear Friends:

Earlier this month, I traveled to Portland, Ore., and Denver, Colo., to study the highly successful public transportation systems in those cities.

Our Milwaukee delegation included County Executive Scott Walker, Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce president Tim Sheehy and philanthropist Michael Cudahy. We met with engineers, local transit experts and city officials in Portland and Denver, and toured and rode the transportation systems in both cities.

Our goal was to learn what public transportation means to these communities, and to see first-hand the tremendous economic development opportunities generated by successful mass transit systems. 

We saw how a modern, intermodal public transportation system can create jobs, spark economic growth, reduce sprawl, attract young professionals and help a city reach new levels of greatness.

Why Denver and Portland?

We visited Portland and Denver because they provide good models for Milwaukee to follow.  All three cities are approximately the same size - according to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2005 population estimate, Milwaukee, with 578,887 residents, has a larger population than both Denver (557,917) and Portland (533,427).

At the same time, Milwaukee has a greater population density, about three times that of both Denver and Portland. Population density is a key indicator of a community's willingness to use public transit. Typically, more people in less space means greater need for public transportation to ease congestion and help move people around.

All three cities also have growing downtown districts and adjacent neighborhoods.  According to MapInfo, the 2006 residential population that lives within a three-mile radius of downtown Milwaukee is 205,100, which is greater than that of both Portland (138,000) and Denver (188,600).

These statistics suggest that Milwaukee would be a good fit for a modern, multimodal public transit system on par with Denver and Portland.  If it can work there, it can work here - an encouraging sign considering the great transit successes in these cities.

Portland's award-winning transportation system has long been one of the best in the country. In addition to their bus and light rail systems, Portland opened a new, modern streetcar system in 2001 to connect emerging near-downtown neighborhoods to Portland State University.

The 2.4 mile system cost $56.9 million to construct - approximately the same cost as my proposal - and has served as a catalyst for new development. More than $2.3 billion in private investment and development has occurred in the areas served by the first streetcar line, and Portland State University has seen applications and interest skyrocket, making it a stronger, more attractive educational institution.

Portland's system has been so successful that three streetcar line extensions have been added since 2001.

The story is similar in Denver, where approximately 150 Colorado companies were listed in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's "Best Workplaces for Commuters" 2004 study. In fact, Colorado employers lead the nation in offering commuting alternatives for its workforce.

On an average weekday, 63,000 people utilize the 16th Street Mall Bus Rapid Transit system. The one-mile pedestrian/transit mall is home to a diverse array of more than 1,000 downtown retailers and retail centers. A Bus Rapid Transit line runs through the core of the city's downtown and has helped Denver grow to the 10th-largest downtown retail center in the country.

Since 1990, downtown Denver and surrounding neighborhoods have witnessed over $4 billion in private investment, thanks in large part to its modern transit system.

Milwaukee is one of the only cities of our size in the country that does not have a fixed transit system in operation, and most of our peer cities are expanding existing systems.

I believe we can replicate the great success stories in Denver and Portland here in Milwaukee - linking workers to jobs, sparking new economic growth and development, and seamlessly connecting our entire area. 

Earlier this year I unveiled my Comprehensive Transit Strategy for Milwaukee, a new transportation vision that utilizes $91.5 million in federal transit funds to upgrade and modernize Milwaukee's ailing, outdated system.

My plan will improve citywide accessibility and connect workers to jobs by installing two Bus Rapid Transit lines and a downtown streetcar service.  My vision also transforms the Amtrak Station downtown into a multi-modal central transit hub that will link the entire city and region.

It's time to move Milwaukee forward and spark economic growth and development through public transit, just like in Portland and Denver. I encourage you to take a look at my Comprehensive Transit Strategy for Milwaukee at www.city.milwaukee.gov/ImprovingOurTransitS22513.htm.

 

Tom Barrett is the mayor of Milwaukee.

By Tom Barrett

Shortly before Memorial Day, the Milwaukee Police Department launched an unprecedented law enforcement effort to combat crime and reduce violence on Milwaukee's streets this summer.

This effort, the Neighborhood Safety Initiative (NSI), puts more police resources and officers in the areas of the city where they are most needed, when they are most needed, without compromising safety or police coverage in the rest of the city.
 
In essence, the NSI creates an additional police district that is nimble, mobile and intelligence-based.
Initial results have been encouraging, particularly the feedback from residents and businesses in the areas where the NSI has had a great presence.

Consider these figures compiled from the launch of the initiative on May 20th through Sunday, June 24th:
 •        669 arrests, including known gang members and many on probation and parole
 •        54 confiscated firearms
 •        83 weapons charges
 •        222 drug charges
 •        14 percent decrease in non-fatal shootings compared to this time last year
 
Strengthening police-community relations
In addition to putting greater police force on the streets, these proactive, targeted patrols are placing strong emphasis on building partnerships with city residents and business owners.  

Since the implementation of the NSI on May 20th, police have made more than 6,781 citizen contacts and 694 business contacts. These contacts are strengthening the partnership between the community, businesses and the police, and will lead to a safer, stronger Milwaukee.
 
Focusing on quality of life
The NSI is not just about reducing the number of shootings or homicides, it's also about improving the quality of life in Milwaukee communities. That's why the NSI also targets crimes like loitering, cruising, and curfew and parking violations – offenses that create instability in neighborhoods and make residents feel frustrated and unsafe.

The NSI has created success here as well, making it clear that nuisance crimes will not be tolerated:
•        67 curfew violations, including 10 parental responsibility offenses
•        1,033 traffic violations and warnings
•        151 loud music violations
•        111 parking citations
•        20 vehicles towed
•        Plus many loitering and public drinking citations
 
The NSI – An aggressive strategy to make Milwaukee safer 
Fighting crime is my top priority, and I'm not interested in slogans, headlines or theories. I care about results. I want the bad guys off the streets and our neighborhoods to be safe.

The Neighborhood Safety Initiative is a valuable tool in the fight against crime, and it sends an important message to the thugs and the criminals: we will not tolerate violence in our city, we are coming after you, and we won't stop until you are behind bars.

I am proud to support the NSI as a key element in our comprehensive approach to making Milwaukee safer and stronger.

Tom Barrett is the mayor of Milwaukee.

 

Dear Friends:

If we are to continue to retain, grow and attract businesses to Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin, we must ensure we have a skilled and talented workforce.

One way I am doing that is through our Youth Summer Jobs Program, an initiative of which I am very proud. This program offers opportunities for young people to develop good work habits and strong job skills, make a little money and avoid trouble on the streets.

Last year we created paid internships at City Hall for more than 200 high school juniors and seniors, and we established 435 jobs for young people in partnership with 84 non-profit and faith-based organizations. We also worked with businesses in the private sector to offer hundreds of positions with Milwaukee companies.

In total we placed 1,000 teens in summer jobs last year, and I want to expand the program to include 1,500 young people this summer. And that is where you come in: I am urging businesses across Milwaukee to hire young people for jobs they have available this summer. From clerical work to ground maintenance and everything in between, these teens are ready to work for you this summer.
Why should your company participate?

• Improving our future workforce. The program gives young people an opportunity to learn and experience the rigors and rewards of hard work, and provides them with skills they will need in the workforce. At the same time, this effort builds the self-confidence of our young people while increasing workforce productivity. 
• We make it easy. Once you have created positions, the City, working with Elmer Winter’s Youthpower organization, will conduct interviews, select suitable placements, and provide soft skills training for the youth that have been placed in jobs. As an employer, you are invited to participate in the interview process to help select your employees, but it is not necessary.
• Dynamic and eager young people. The city is currently working to recruit hundreds of young people to apply for the program. These youth are eager to work and willing to learn. Your employment opportunities will allow us to provide meaningful work experience for these young people that will enhance their future, prepare a workforce for the next generation, and strengthen your company.
• Why is this program so important? It is all of our responsibility to develop our youth, provide them with opportunities and a bright future, and develop a workforce that will help our companies and local economy remain strong. The Youth Summer Jobs Program gives young people something positive to do that will keep them off the streets and out of trouble, and puts a few dollars in their pockets at the same time.
• How do you participate? Have your human resources department contact Scott Gunderson at (414) 286-5662 or via email at sgunde@milwaukee.gov. You may also go to the Internet and fill out the private sector employment sign-up form at www.mkedcd.org/syip.

A representative of my staff will follow up with your company’s representative after your job descriptions have been registered.

 

If you are unable to provide job opportunities at your company, you can help us give youth an opportunity to work at non-profit organizations with a financial contribution. Last year more than 80 non-profits worked with the city to provide job opportunities for youth. Your assistance will allow us to continue and grow our efforts working with non-profit organizations in the city. Please contact Scott at the number or e-mail mentioned above to discuss how you can participate in this worthwhile program.

Please join me in giving Milwaukee’s youth a great opportunity to grow and succeed. Become a partner in the Youth Summer Jobs Program today!

Sincerely, 
Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett

 

Dear Friends:

A healthy economy for Milwaukee will be made up of trained, skilled workers who can fill the needs of local employers and provide incentives for businesses to relocate or expand here.

Since I took office in 2004, my administration has leveraged more than 10,000 jobs. But we must do more. In the past, Milwaukee has not been aggressive in workforce development. Those times are gone. Acting on the recommendations of UWM and the Public Policy, I have asked for the City of Milwaukee to be designated the lead agency for workforce in our region.

Currently, 22 out of the top 25 cities in the U.S. operate their workforce initiatives in conjunction with the Mayor's office. The reason is clear: Leadership, plain and simple.

I have developed a plan to mobilize the city as a leader in workforce development that will energize our community for workforce excellence. By doing so, we will create more family-supporting jobs, help businesses grow and expand, and strengthen Milwaukee's regional economy.

What can the Mayor and City provide that is currently lacking?
Accountability: Simply put, there is no oversight for Economic Development in our current system. We need to have greater responsibility for workforce development in our community.
Uniting the community to close the skills gap: We need the investment and commitment of business, faith, and government to address the needs of those who cannot compete in the job market today because they lack adequate jobs skills -- most of whom live in the city of Milwaukee. As Mayor, I have the bully pulpit to do just that.
Credibility with business: I have worked firsthand with many private companies on workforce development projects. My collaboration with the manufacturing firms Tramont and Bucyrus on worker training programs are just a few examples.
Regional approach: I played a founding role in the Regional Workforce Alliance of Southeast Wisconsin, which is developing strategies and communication networks to attract and retain talent for our growing and new businesses in the Milwaukee 7 region.
Private and public grants: I worked to get several grant efforts from both the state and federal governments (GROW, MATC, and WIRED) that have already delivered almost $7.5 million to connect unemployed workers in Milwaukee to jobs in the City and throughout the region.

In addition, I secured a $500,000 grant for workforce development from the Bader Foundation, and I'm looking at additional institutions and foundations that have expressed interest in Milwaukee. We need leadership and accountability for these efforts to pay dividends, and thus far I am the only public official prepared to step up and provide it.

Sincerely,

Tom Barrett,
Mayor