Milwaukee's Council-led Transformational Fund to see next steps

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee Common Council is moving forward with a community funding plan that's been stalled for years.

The "Council-led Transformational Fund" amounts to about $2.4 million and is to be spent on programs that "uplift Milwaukee residents and transform the community." The budget documents say the goal is to strengthen support to residents who need it most.

During its April 2 meeting, Milwaukee's Common Council adopted a motion that would make way for transformational fund to move forward.

The plan was first introduced back in 2022, but city budget struggles cut the funding down from $25 million to $2.4 million and delayed the plan.

"This is not just a financial allocation. It's a statement to our values, our priorities, and our commitment to a stronger more inclusive Milwaukee," said District 2 Alderman Mark Chambers.

Chambers is one of several council members that's been advocating to keep what's left of the fund, including Ald. JoCasta Zamarripa.

"This resolution reflects the voices and concerns of our residents. With these funds we are investing in organizations that provide asylum and legal assistance. Emergency relief for students, community led safety initiatives and vital homelessness prevention services," Chambers said.

The funding will provide grants to over a dozen Milwaukee area organizations and causes. "We are empowering neighborhood associations, supporting mental health programs and expanding opportunities for our young people through workforce development and urban agriculture," said Ald. Chambers.

As part of the transformational fund, the council also approved a measure to adopt participatory budgeting, which would allow residents to decide how to spend part of the city budget. That resolution allocates $600,000 for a resident-led community budgeting program.