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Real Estate, Contracts & Education Practice Section

The Real Estate, Contracts & Education practice section handles legal matters related to City property, various contracts, zoning, and economic development projects where the City has legal responsibilities or has provided funding. It also provides general legal counsel to Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS). Attorneys in this section help ensure that transactions involving the City and MPS are lawful, enforceable, and protective of public resources. This work supports responsible stewardship of City and MPS assets and the successful delivery of public services.

OVERVIEW

What We Do

Attorneys in this practice section provide legal services related to:

  • Drafting and reviewing City and MPS contracts
  • Real estate transactions involving property owned by the City, Port Milwaukee and the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Milwaukee (RACM)
  • Leases, sales, acquisitions, and easements
  • Intergovernmental and partnership agreements
  • Providing general legal counsel to MPS and Port Milwaukee
  • Risk assessment and compliance review for transactions

The office works with City departments to help ensure agreements reflect City policy decisions and comply with applicable law, and also provides general legal counsel to Milwaukee Public Schools.

Why this work matters

City contracts, property transactions, and legal matters involving MPS impact significant public resources and long-term obligations. Legal review in these areas help:

- Protect taxpayer funds

- Ensure transparency and accountability

- Reduce disputes and litigation

- Ensure legal agreements involving the City or MPS are enforceable and consistent with law

What the Public Should Know

- Many contract negotiations and real estate transactions involve confidential discussions until agreements are finalized.

- The City Attorney’s Office does not select vendors or make policy decisions; it provides legal support for decisions made by City  and MPS leadership.

- Approved final contracts and property records may be available through public records requests.

Questions about procurement, zoning, or development projects should be directed to the appropriate City department.  Questions about MPS should be directed to the appropriate MPS leaders or department.

At a Glance

What this team does Who we represent
Provides legal review and support for City contracts and property transactions, and for legal matters involving Milwaukee Public Schools. The City of Milwaukee, the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Milwaukee, Port Milwaukee, the Board of Zoning Appeals, and Milwaukee Public Schools and the MPS School Board
Common topics
City contracts, real estate transactions, leases, intergovernmental agreements, and MPS-related legal issues.
What to know Where to go for help
The City Attorney’s Office does not select vendors or make policy decisions; it provides legal support for decisions made by City and MPS leadership. Questions about procurement, zoning, or development projects should be directed to the appropriate City department. Questions about MPS should be directed to the appropriate MPS leaders or department.