Milwaukee Proposes Fee Waivers to Improve Business Accessibility

A business entrance featuring wheelchair ramps and accessibility signage.

News Summary

The Milwaukee Common Council is considering fee waivers for businesses making accessibility improvements under the ADA. With unanimous support from committees, the initiative aims to inspire compliance and enhance access for individuals with disabilities. However, the city faces challenges regarding homeownership and compliance in residential properties. Recent renovations for accessibility improvements highlight the need for greater inclusivity in housing and community spaces.

Milwaukee is considering a significant initiative aimed at improving accessibility for disabled individuals within the local business community. The Milwaukee Common Council has proposed measures to waive various city fees for businesses that make accessibility modifications, with the goal of encouraging compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

On September 17, the Milwaukee Common Council’s Finance and Personnel Committee unanimously approved the measure, which had previously passed through the Public Works and Zoning and Development committees without opposition. The full city council is scheduled to vote on the proposal on September 23.

The proposed fee waivers are applicable to permitting and assessors’ fees for projects aimed at enhancing accessibility specifically at primary entrance and exit points that the public can use during business hours. Additionally, businesses qualifying for these waivers will see fees for sidewalk restoration, excavation, and property records waived, though inspection charges will still apply.

Ald. Marina Dimitrijevic, the chair of the committee and co-sponsor of the initiative, expressed optimism that this move will inspire local businesses, particularly those in older buildings, to make necessary accessibility improvements. Kelsey Kaufmann, owner of the Cactus Club, underscored her support for the initiative by detailing her experience of spending over $100,000 on accessibility modifications at her venue, facing $1,900 in city fees, of which she has already paid $1,200.

The Department of Neighborhood Services estimates that the city might see between 10 to 30 qualifying projects annually that would benefit from the accessibility fee waivers. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address systemic challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing public spaces and homes.

Recent renovations of three foreclosed homes in Milwaukee intended for accessibility improvements faced setbacks when two of these homes were sold to buyers without mobility challenges. These renovations, totaling around $300,000 in federal funds, included necessary enhancements like wheelchair ramps and wider hallways. The nonprofit organization Independence First voiced its frustration regarding these sales, emphasizing the need for more equitable housing solutions for individuals with disabilities.

The city utilized $15 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to renovate 150 tax-foreclosed homes, although they lack authority over the buyer selection process. Legal limitations restrict the ability to reserve accessible homes solely for individuals with disabilities in accordance with fair housing laws. The properties carry a deed requirement stipulating a five-year period of homeownership, but no other restrictions specific to accessibility apply.

Challenges persist for individuals with disabilities regarding homeownership, as issues like cost, the scarcity of suitable housing, and insufficient enforcement of legal protections continue to complicate access to homes. In the current economic climate with rising costs, low-income individuals face significant barriers to purchasing homes. For instance, a wheelchair-accessible home located at 4928 N. 27th St. remains unsold and is listed at $130,000.

In contrast to the housing situation, advancements at Bradford Beach have shown promise for improving accessibility in recreational areas. Enhancements funded through the Ability Center’s RampUp initiative, in collaboration with Milwaukee County and private/non-profit entities, have made the beach accessible for wheelchair users. This project included the installation of ramps and non-slip mats connecting the shoreline, reinforcing the importance of inclusivity in public facilities.

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley emphasized the critical need for equal access to community assets and services for individuals with disabilities, advocating for policies that promote inclusivity and accessibility across all sectors. As the city moves forward with the proposed fee waivers, efforts to improve accessibility within both the business landscape and residential properties continue to be a focal point of local governance.

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STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER

MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.

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