260718: Resolution relating to the Certified Local Government review of the National Register of Historic Places nomination for the Milwaukee County Department of Welfare at 1220 W. Vliet Street, in the 15th Aldermanic District.

Description

Resolution relating to the Certified Local Government review of the National Register of Historic Places nomination for the Milwaukee County Department of Welfare at 1220 W. Vliet Street, in the 15th Aldermanic District.

Summary

The document is a National Register nomination for Milwaukee’s former Milwaukee County Department of Welfare building at 1220 W. Vliet Street, also known as the Marcia P. Coggs Health and Human Services Building and former Schuster’s Department Store. Built in 1910 and expanded in 1924, it became the county’s main welfare office in 1963. The building served Milwaukee residents through programs including Aid to Families with Dependent Children, food stamps, medical assistance, and energy aid. Its significance spans 1963–1986, when welfare programs expanded amid poverty, industrial job losses, urban renewal, and Bronzeville’s disruption. Administrative problems and public protests contributed to Wisconsin welfare reforms, including legislation allowing regular audits of large county departments. The property was locally designated in 2024, became vacant in 2025, and is planned for conversion to affordable housing using historic tax credits.