The Milwaukee County Committee on Finance convened on June 18, 2025, for a hybrid meeting focused on the reappointment of Aaron Hertzberg as the executive director of the Department of Administrative Services (DAS). The meeting, held in Room 203-R and live-streamed for public access, featured Deputy Chief of Staff Tim Schiavo presenting Hertzberg's qualifications and achievements.
Schiavo highlighted Hertzberg's seven years of service to Milwaukee County, including his four-year tenure as the head of DAS. He emphasized Hertzberg's leadership in developing a strategic plan that supports the county's core functions, such as facilities management, economic development, and risk management. Under Hertzberg's guidance, DAS has made significant strides in employee engagement, operational excellence, and racial equity, which are central to the department's mission.
Key accomplishments during Hertzberg's tenure include a successful recruitment campaign that improved position fill rates by over 10% and enhanced diversity within the workforce. Schiavo noted that employee engagement scores rose by 9.5%, reflecting the effectiveness of initiatives like improved onboarding and training programs.
The meeting also addressed Hertzberg's role in advancing Milwaukee County's facilities strategy, which has resulted in substantial cost savings and the development of key projects, including a mental health emergency center and a new forensic science facility. Additionally, Hertzberg has been instrumental in creating the county's first climate action plan, aiming for climate neutrality by 2050.
The committee members were invited to ask questions following Schiavo's presentation, indicating a collaborative approach to the reappointment process. The meeting underscored the importance of Hertzberg's leadership in navigating challenges and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within Milwaukee County's administrative framework.