February 2026 GMC Membership Meeting

Описание: Civic Engagement, Trust, & Regional Alliance

On February 9, the Greater Milwaukee Committee hosted its Annual Membership Meeting. In addition to approving the 2026 Board slate, the meeting featured a focused discussion on why civic engagement is a strategic imperative for business leadership and successful community development.

A national perspective was delivered by Joseph Arroyo, Executive Director of Cities Forward, a leading organization based in New York City working at the intersection of civic infrastructure, local government, and community leadership in cities across the country. Drawing on his experience working nationwide, Mr. Arroyo shared concrete insights and examples of how business, civic, and public-sector leaders are partnering to strengthen trust, expand participation, and drive measurable community outcomes. Under his leadership, Cities Forward has emerged as a thought leader in investing in community leadership, building responsive public institutions, and creating alignment to dismantle silos and make local government more visible, coordinated, and responsive. His remarks highlighted how embedding civic organizing and engagement within local government and community institutions creates durable civic infrastructure, enabling communities to rebuild trust, deepen civic participation, and position cities for long-term growth, resilience, and innovation.

Strong civic engagement is essential to advancing the GMC’s pillars of education, fiscal strength, public safety, and infrastructure. When communities trust and participate in public systems, regions see stronger educational outcomes, more effective use of resources, safer neighborhoods, and the infrastructure needed for long-term growth. This discussion explored how civic engagement drives workforce readiness, economic competitiveness, and shared prosperity—and the role business leaders can play in strengthening Milwaukee’s civic fabric.

Speakers included:
Joseph Arroyo, Cities Forward
JoAnne Anton, Herb Kohl Philanthropies
Angela Damiani, NEWaukee
Mayor Cavalier Johnson, City of Milwaukee