Sherman Park Coalition addresses Milwaukee housing crisis through grassroots data initiative

Milwaukee's Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee convened on April 15, 2025, to discuss pressing housing issues and proposed zoning changes aimed at improving living conditions across the city. A significant focus was placed on the Rhonda Reclaiming Our Neighborhoods Coalition (RON), which has expanded to include 14 neighborhoods and aims to address deteriorating housing conditions through grassroots efforts.

The coalition's recent report highlighted alarming statistics: over 22% of residential properties in the surveyed neighborhoods require at least one major exterior repair, with some areas reporting nearly 50% of homes in critical need of repairs. Investor-owned properties were found to be in worse condition, accounting for 58.6% of tax-delinquent properties despite representing only 47.7% of the homes. The coalition estimates that approximately $35 million is needed to address repairs for owner-occupied homes alone, with a particular emphasis on lead paint remediation in homes built before 1979.

In response to these findings, the coalition is advocating for enhanced code enforcement measures targeting poorly maintained investment properties and seeking additional resources to assist low- and moderate-income homeowners. They plan to conduct person-to-person surveys this summer to connect residents with available resources and support.

Additionally, the committee discussed a proposed zoning change to create a new RT5 zoning district, which would allow for the construction of up to eight residential units, compared to the current limit of four in the RT4 district. This change aims to provide more housing options while ensuring that any future developments undergo thorough community engagement and review processes.

The committee emphasized that the creation of the RT5 district does not automatically change zoning for any properties but rather provides a new tool for developers to seek zoning changes in appropriate locations. The proposal aims to balance the need for increased housing density with community input and oversight.

As Milwaukee continues to grapple with housing challenges, the discussions from this meeting underscore the importance of collaboration between community organizations, city departments, and policymakers to improve living conditions and ensure accountability among property owners. The coalition's ongoing efforts and the proposed zoning changes represent steps toward addressing the urgent housing needs of Milwaukee residents.