The City of Milwaukee's Community and Economic Development Committee convened on July 2, 2025, to discuss critical community needs and housing concerns as part of the ongoing development plan. The meeting highlighted the results of recent community engagement efforts, which aimed to gather feedback on public service issues and housing challenges affecting residents' quality of life.

Key findings from the community engagement summary revealed that crime and safety were the top concerns among residents, alongside the need for improved youth services and infrastructure such as sidewalks and streets. The committee emphasized the importance of addressing these issues to enhance neighborhood safety and overall quality of life.

Housing affordability emerged as a pressing topic, with many residents expressing concerns about homelessness and the rising cost of rental and homeownership options. The committee noted that while household incomes have increased, they have not kept pace with housing costs, leading to a growing number of residents experiencing housing cost burdens. This situation has resulted in overcrowding and heightened risks of eviction for many families.

The meeting also addressed the demographic shifts within the city, indicating a stable population but an evolving racial and ethnic makeup. The legacy of past redlining and segregation continues to contribute to economic disparities, which the committee aims to tackle through targeted strategies in the development plan.

In addition to housing, the committee discussed broader community needs, including safety, access to jobs, and support for young people. The consolidated plan aims to address these diverse issues while remaining flexible to adapt to community feedback and changing circumstances.

Overall, the committee's discussions underscored the interconnectedness of housing stability, economic security, and community development, setting the stage for future initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for all Milwaukee residents. The next steps will involve refining the development plan based on community input and aligning resources to address the identified needs effectively.