Residents demand change following shootings at Madison's Harmony Apartments owned by Royal Capital

The City of Milwaukee's Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee convened on July 8, 2025, to discuss significant developments impacting local housing and community dynamics. The meeting, which began at 9:00 AM, focused on the proposed Cutterhei Farms development and its implications for the surrounding area.

The committee heard from Brent Lecu, a property owner near Sixtieth and Silver Spring, who expressed strong support for the Cutterhei Farms project. Lecu emphasized the development's potential to enhance density and provide essential amenities, arguing that it would offer much-needed housing options for local workers, including teachers and firefighters. He highlighted the importance of strategic development in revitalizing struggling neighborhoods and countering perceptions of congestion.

Kabir Sara, a commercial investor, also voiced support for the project, noting that increased housing could attract new businesses to the area, thereby boosting local commerce. He pointed out the challenges faced by existing commercial tenants due to low traffic and expressed optimism that the development would stimulate economic growth.

The committee then shifted focus to concerns regarding the Harmony Apartments in Madison, which has faced scrutiny following two fatal shootings within months. Discussions included the need for improved management and security measures at the property, as well as the importance of community programming to address underlying issues contributing to violence. The committee considered the lessons learned from Madison's experience, particularly regarding the relationship between the city and property developers.

As the meeting progressed, committee members debated the merits of moving forward with the Cutterhei Farms development versus gathering more information about the Madison situation. The discussion underscored the complexities of urban development, community safety, and the need for effective oversight of housing projects.

The public hearing concluded with a call for further investigation into the Madison developments, with committee members expressing a desire to ensure that Milwaukee's housing initiatives do not replicate past mistakes. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges of balancing development with community needs and safety, setting the stage for future discussions on urban planning and neighborhood revitalization.