Milwaukee's McGovern Park is at the center of a debate over public land use as the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors prepares to vote on a redevelopment project. The proposal would convert part of the public park into a mixed-use site with privately owned senior housing and other facilities. According to the Milwaukee County, Supervisor Felesia A. Martin of the 7th District has announced she will vote "No" on the legislation.
A proposal to build private structures on public land in Milwaukee County has led to public opposition, with many community members attending meetings to express concerns. Supervisor Martin said, “At face value, this project may appear to serve a public good, but once you look closer, serious concerns emerge.” She pointed to past developments like The Rock Sports Complex as examples of limited public control. Martin raised concerns about the project’s environmental impact, potential loss of green space, and its effect on Black and low-income communities. She asked, “When has Milwaukee seen largescale housing developments that truly serve Black communities, rather than price them out over time?”
Martin is against the plan to privatize McGovern Park, saying parks help support racial equity and public health in Milwaukee County. She suggested using vacant buildings for housing instead of taking away public green space. “Our job as elected county officials is to be careful stewards of our land and resources,” Martin said. She plans to vote against the proposal as the county prepares for a decision.
