Chairwoman cites new leadership in Madison as a chance to restore local control and expand services

MILWAUKEE – Milwaukee County Board Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson-Bovell today announced she is running for Milwaukee County Executive, pledging a big, bold agenda to make life more affordable and saying new leadership in Madison gives the county a chance to restore local control and expand services.

“Families are working hard, but the cost of living keeps climbing,” Nicholson-Bovell said at a press conference at Sherman Phoenix Marketplace. “It shouldn’t be such a struggle to build a good life. County government can’t fix everything, but we can make people’s lives better.”

Nicholson-Bovell’s agenda centers on economic stability, parks and transit. Stability, she said, means “a place to call home, and someone in your corner when life gets difficult,” including more affordable homes and mental health care.

“I want parks that are free, safe, and worth the trip,” she said. “World-class parks, in every neighborhood.”

On transit, she said: “I don’t want to just hold the line on transit. I want to expand it. That means a second bus rapid transit line, more routes, more buses that show up when you need them, and a safe, affordable ride around town even when gas prices climb.”

Nicholson-Bovell advanced the budget amendment that helped prevent significant transit service cuts last fall. Last week, the County Board unanimously adopted a budget amendment she sponsored that removed the Parks Department’s Pay to Park proposal. She has also worked with state and federal partners to bring millions of dollars into county parks.

“Milwaukee County has delivered wins for the entire state of Wisconsin,” she said. “Now it’s time to bring those wins home. Expect more, Milwaukee County. You deserve more!”

Nicholson-Bovell has served on the County Board since 2016 and as chairwoman since 2020. A former teacher, she grew up on Milwaukee’s North Side, the daughter of two Milwaukee Public Schools employees.

According to state statute, Nicholson-Bovell will become Acting County Executive when Gov.-elect David Crowley resigns from the office. A special election will then be called.

Learn more about Marcelia and the campaign at marceliaformilwaukee.com.