Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson delivered his State of the City Address under the theme “The Year of Housing,” centered on a simple belief that everything begins at home. He framed his agenda around three core priorities: housing affordability, housing availability, and housing quality, emphasizing that safe and stable homes are foundational to strong families, neighborhoods, and a thriving city.
Mayor Johnson pointed to visible progress already underway, highlighting transformative developments such as the Historic Garfield Apartments and ThriveOn King as examples of community-centered investments taking shape. He noted that millions in city support have helped move projects forward in neighborhoods with strong resident engagement, shaping outcomes. The Mayor also noted a shift in policy to support more middle-market and workforce housing, helping to ensure affordability across income levels as the city continues to add new units and respond to changing market conditions.
Beyond housing, Mayor Johnson underscored broader progress across the city, including continued improvements in public safety and economic development. In 2025, serious crime declined by 17% and violent crime dropped by 22%, with decreases in robbery, assault, and auto theft, alongside ongoing efforts to address gun violence. He also highlighted support for small businesses through commercial revitalization grants, with more than $1 million in city funding leveraging $10 million in investment to strengthen local corridors, create jobs, and build Milwaukee’s economic future.
Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here.
At a time when our rights, freedoms, and futures are under threat, Democratic Mayors are showing the nation what real leadership looks like.
