MILWAUKEE – The Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors unanimously re-elected Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson-Bovell, affirming her leadership following a term defined by historic budget outcomes, restored transit funding, and nationally recognized equity-driven policy.
Over the past term, Nicholson-Bovell led the adoption of a unanimous 2025 budget and a 17-1 2026 budget, advanced key amendments to restore transit funding, supported Birth to Three, and positioned Milwaukee County as a national leader by declaring food apartheid a public health crisis and filling the food access gap following federal gridlock.
She also has led climate initiatives focused on sustainability and long-term resilience, ensuring Milwaukee County is prepared to meet both current challenges and future demands.
“This re-election reflects the work we’ve done together to deliver real results for Milwaukee County residents,” Nicholson-Bovell said. “From strengthening our fiscal position to advancing equity-centered policy, we’ve shown what’s possible when leadership is focused on outcomes. I’m honored to continue this work and remain committed to building a healthier, more equitable future for all.”
Leadership in Action Across the Board with fellow Supervisors:
- Led adoption of a unanimous 2025 budget
- Secured 17-1 approval of the 2026 budget
- Advanced amendments to restore transit funding
- Supported Birth to Three and key community investments
- Declared food apartheid a public health crisis, positioning Milwaukee County as a national leader
- Advanced climate initiatives to support long-term sustainability
A Decade of Leadership with National Impact:
As she marks 10 years in office, Chairwoman Nicholson-Bovell, the first Black and Latina Woman elected to lead the body, has helped position Milwaukee County as a national model for equity-driven governance and community-centered policymaking.
She was a leading force behind Milwaukee County becoming the first jurisdiction in the nation to declare racism a public health crisis, a landmark action that helped catalyze similar efforts across the country and embed racial equity into government decision-making.
Nicholson-Bovell also led the creation of the County’s nationally recognized American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Task Force, establishing a transparent, community-informed process to guide the allocation of over $180 million in federal recovery funding – prioritizing those most impacted by the pandemic and advancing long-term equity goals.
Across her tenure, she has advanced policies and practices that center community voice, strengthen fiscal stewardship, and expand investment in historically underserved communities – helping modernize County government and deliver more equitable outcomes for residents.
As she begins her new term, Chairwoman Nicholson-Bovell will continue to lead with a focus on transparency, accountability, and delivering measurable results for Milwaukee County residents.
