On June 18, 2025, the Milwaukee County Committee on Finance convened for a hybrid meeting to discuss significant funding initiatives and infrastructure projects impacting the community. The meeting highlighted two key items: emergency repairs at the War Memorial Center and a substantial federal funding opportunity for transportation safety improvements.

The first item addressed was a request from the Department of Administrative Services regarding an amendment to a professional services agreement with the Sigma Group. This amendment focuses on emergency repairs to the North Stairway of the War Memorial Center, which has been experiencing leaks that threaten valuable assets stored in the archives. Project manager Max Cycak emphasized the urgency of the repairs, stating that the design phase is complete and construction is set to begin this summer. Supervisor O'Connor raised concerns about the financial independence of the War Memorial Center, questioning whether the project timeline could be adjusted. Cycak clarified that the emergency nature of the repairs necessitates immediate action, regardless of the center's financial status.

The second major discussion centered on a request from the Department of Transportation to apply for funding through the 2025 Safe Streets and Roads for All discretionary grant program. Director's office representative Jeff Sponsea presented an opportunity to secure up to $25 million in federal funding for transportation safety infrastructure improvements across Milwaukee County. The total estimated cost for the proposed projects is $31 million, with the remaining $6.25 million requiring local matching funds. Sponsea noted that most of the projects are within the city of Milwaukee, which has already committed to covering its share of the local match. He urged the committee to support the application, highlighting the historic nature of this funding opportunity.

The discussions during the meeting underscored the county's commitment to addressing urgent infrastructure needs while also seeking significant external funding to enhance public safety. As the committee moves forward, the outcomes of these initiatives will be closely watched, particularly in terms of their impact on community safety and the preservation of cultural assets.