Milwaukee County supervisors approve liquor permits for airport concessionaires

The Milwaukee County Committee on Transportation and Transit convened on July 9, 2025, to address key issues impacting local transit and airport operations. The meeting, which included both in-person and virtual attendance, highlighted two significant agenda items that could affect residents' daily lives.

The first item discussed was a request from the Milwaukee County Department of Transportation and the Airport Division to apply for retail intoxicating liquor permits at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport. Airport Director Brian Drancik explained that this request is part of an initiative to enhance the airport's concession offerings, specifically through the concessionaires SSP America and Parodies Lagadere. The permits would allow these businesses to sell alcohol at the airport, which is expected to improve the overall passenger experience. The committee unanimously approved the resolution, signaling support for the airport's efforts to modernize and expand its services.

The second item on the agenda was an informational report on the Milwaukee County Transit System's (MCTS) projected budget deficit for 2025. Interim President and CEO Sandra Kellner, along with CFO Alexander Corona, presented details about the financial challenges facing the transit system. Kellner acknowledged past communication shortcomings regarding service changes and emphasized the commitment to improving transparency moving forward. The report outlined the financial trends observed from January to April 2025 and discussed strategies to address the deficit. While this item was primarily informational, it raised concerns about the sustainability of public transit services in the county.

As Milwaukee County continues to navigate these critical issues, the outcomes of this meeting reflect ongoing efforts to enhance transportation services and address financial challenges that directly impact residents. The committee's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of both the airport and public transit in the community.