The Milwaukee County Committee on Finance convened on July 17, 2025, to discuss critical financial matters, including the establishment of a new bank account for the Building Bridges Small Business Grant Program and modifications to the funding agreement with the Marcus Center for Performing Arts.

The meeting began with a request from Celia Benton, the Economic Development Director, for authorization to create a separate bank account to manage funds from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) for the Building Bridges program. This initiative aims to support small businesses in the county. Benton noted that the account is a prerequisite for disbursing grants to eligible applicants, with due diligence on several applications nearing completion. The committee unanimously adopted the motion to create the account.

Following this, Benton presented a proposal to modify the contribution agreement with the Marcus Center, which included a five-year extension of the operating agreement and adjustments to capital funding. The proposal aims to address the center's financial challenges while reducing the county's operational commitments. Benton emphasized the importance of the Marcus Center as a cultural and economic asset for Milwaukee County, highlighting its role in attracting visitors and generating revenue.

Erica Goblet, a project manager with the Economic Development Department, provided historical context on the partnership between the county and the Marcus Center, detailing past financial contributions and the impact of declining county support. Kevin Galento, the center's president and CEO, discussed the center's efforts to improve its financial position through increased fundraising and programming, noting a significant reduction in its budget deficit.

The committee engaged in a robust discussion regarding the implications of the proposed funding. Some supervisors expressed concerns about prioritizing the Marcus Center over other county needs, particularly in light of the county's ongoing budget constraints. Others acknowledged the center's importance to the local economy and cultural landscape, arguing that supporting it aligns with the county's broader goals.

Ultimately, the committee faced a decision on whether to approve the proposed funding modifications. While some supervisors voiced strong support for the plan, others raised objections, citing the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the county's financial situation before committing additional funds.

The meeting concluded with a motion to reject the proposal, reflecting the ongoing tension between supporting cultural institutions and addressing the county's pressing financial challenges. The committee's discussions underscored the complexities of balancing fiscal responsibility with the need to sustain vital community resources.