When COVID hit in 2020, all levels of government stepped in with help for tenants and landlords who were struggling to pay their bills and stay safe at home. Now that robust rental assistance is fading out, many Milwaukee tenants are searching for resources to help them in a competitive housing market.
On Thursday, September 18, Community Advocates Public Policy Institute hosted Housing in Milwaukee: What’s Changed since 2020? — a panel discussion on how the city’s housing landscape has shifted in recent years, what resources remain, and what’s needed to build a more stable future.
Community Advocates COO, Maudwella Kirkendoll, opened the event by reflecting on Community Advocates’ decades long commitment to housing. Since 1976, housing has been a cornerstone of the organization’s work, and during the pandemic, Community Advocates administered more than $80 million in Emergency Rental Assistance to stabilize households across Milwaukee County.
The panelists shared their perspectives on Milwaukee’s housing challenges, the progress made since the pandemic, and the work still ahead. Key themes of the discussion included, persistent disparities in who is most affected by housing instability, the urgent need for affordable housing, potential concerns about out-of-town property buyers, and opportunities to advocate for policy changes, expanding resources, and supporting collaborative solutions like the Rental Housing Resource Center.
· Ericka Crowley, Director of the Milwaukee Rental Housing Resource Center (RHRC), emphasized the importance of the RHRC as a one-stop-shop for both tenants and landlords seeking housing help and solutions. Since its launch in 2020, the RHRC has been unique both in Wisconsin and nationally, for bringing together partners to prevent evictions and support housing stability. Even though federal ERA funding is ending, the RHRC can connect folks with resources. To get in touch to start the process, please come into the RHRC in the Community Advocates building, 728 N. James Lovell St., Milwaukee.
· Kari Southern, Deputy Director of Community Advocates Public Policy Institute, highlighted how federal and local investments in housing during the pandemic prevented widespread displacement, but noted that the demand for resources will soon exceed supply without renewed government commitment. She also highlighted the link between housing and health, citing the Public Policy Institute’s Home Is Where Our Health Is report.
· Nick Toman, Housing Team Managing Attorney with Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee, discussed the impact of legal representation for tenants through the Eviction Free MKE program and the continued importance of tenants knowing their rights.
· Jonny Davis, Property Owner, Real Estate Investor, and Community Supporter, spoke about his experience managing properties and the importance of balancing quality housing with fair tenant relationships. Jonny emphasized that property owners share the rising cost of living that everyone else is experiencing, such as the cost of new appliance, repairs, etc.
· Dawn Anastasi, Landlord and Executive Committee Member of the Rental Property Association of Wisconsin, provided insights from landlords, noting both the challenges and opportunities for collaboration with tenants and advocates, highlighting the importance of communication. Dawn promoted the Rental Property Association of Wisconsin, stating that they offer landlord education.
The event also marked two milestone: the 5th Anniversary of the Rental Housing Resource Center, and the kickoff to Community Advocates 50th Anniversary year, which will be celebrated in September 2026.
Big thank you to our Public Policy Institute (PPI) Members for sponsoring this panel discussion. If you're interested in learning more or becoming a member, go to ppi.communityadvocates.net/how-to-help/ppi-membership.
For housing resources, please go to the Milwaukee Rental Housing Resource Center at renthelpmke.org.
