2026 Civic Grant meeting

CIVIC GRANTS COMMISSION MEETING NOTICE Thursday May 21, 2026 5:30 p.m. City Administration Building Committee Room 2424 15th Avenue, South Milwaukee 53172. 1. Call to order/Roll Call. 2. Approval of March 19, 2026 meeting minutes. 3. Presentations by civic grant applicants. 4. Update on previous grant recipient projects. 5. Discussion of the Bucyrus Civic Grant Program criteria and eligibility requirements. 6. Adjourn. Posted May 15, 2026 PLEASE NOTE: Upon reasonable notice, a good faith effort will be made to accommodate the needs of disabled individuals through sign language, interpreters or other auxiliary aid at no cost to the individual to participate in public meetings. Due to the difficulty in finding interpreters, requests should be made as far in advance as possible, preferably a minimum of 48 hours. For additional information or to request this service, contact the South Milwaukee City Clerk at 414-762-2222 or write to ADA Coordinator, City Hall, 2424 15 th Avenue, South Milwaukee Wisconsin 53171. The City of South Milwaukee is TDD equipped and can be accessed by calling 414-765-8060. 1 CITY OF SOUTH MILWAUKEE CIVIC GRANTS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES March 19, 2026 1. Call to order. The meeting was called to order at 5:00 PM. Members present: Melissa Ellis, Ericka Lang, Aleta Schilling and Ald. David Bartoshevich. Dave Kieck was absent. 2. Approval of May 7, 2025 minutes. Ellis motioned to approve the meeting minutes, seconded by Bartoshevich. Vote unanimous. 3. Update on 2025 Bucyrus Civic Grant recipients. Lang reviewed the list of 2025 grant recipients. To date, three of the six completed their projects and provided financial reports. Grant funds require use by May 31, 2026 unless an extension was granted. Reports will be provided to commissioners at the next meeting. 4. Consideration of eligible nonprofit requests to apply for 2026 Bucyrus Civic Grant funding. Commissioners reviewed six Letters of Interests: The local nonprofit Growing South Milwaukee’s ArtWorks requests $15,000: $10,000 to hire a professional grant writer for finding funds for future murals and $5,000 to hire for professional services to market the murals and create a walking tour and other promotions. Commissioners agreed both items meet eligibility criteria and request clear deliverables with the application. The South Milwaukee Bucyrus Museum requests $3,730: $2,460 for a laptop and Microsoft license to host data to digitally display Bucyrus employee archives and publications for the public to access and $1,270 to replace storage shelving with a type that allows more storage. Commissioners agreed a new laptop dedicated to a new display for public access to archived materials is an improvement and eligible The request for replacing the existing storage racks with eight new racks is considered maintenance and not eligible for the grant. The Friends of the South Milwaukee Public Library requests $6,000 to create a household tool lending library providing household, specialty tools and equipment located within the library. Funds are for purchasing the equipment and a storage system. Commissioners agreed the new program meets grant program criteria. 2 South Milwaukee, Wisconsin 2 The South Milwaukee Historical Society requests $8,370 for various items: $240 Purchase (6) fireproof storage boxes w/ acid-free portfolios $3,500 Purchase fireproof 2-drawer lateral filing cabinet $270 Purchase microphone, halo light and video creation software $4,360 Purchase (2) 36"x24" Gaylord horizontal flat files and base Commissioners discussed the three storage items and determined the items are considered general operating expenses and not eligible. Commissioners agreed storage equipment is not eligible. New equipment and supply requests require a list of existing items. Commissioners agreed the microphone and video software meet eligibility requirements. The South Milwaukee Police Department request $3,500 to create a Ring Doorbell Camera Program and purchase 50 cameras to distribute in the community. Commissioners agreed the program is eligible and request information about eligibility, subscription costs and access and process of accessing existing cameras. First Responders Children’s Foundation in partnership with local business ServPro request funds to create a specific fund to support a scholarship for a local student who lost a parent during the line of duty. Commissioners agreed a local scholarship is fundraising and a form of sponsorship that does not meet eligibility criteria. It was also agreed nonprofits outside of the community are eligible to received funds if the funds are spent directly to benefit South Milwaukee. 5. Schedule next meeting. The next meeting to review grant applications is Thursday May 21 st at 5:00 PM. 6. Adjourn. Schilling motioned to adjourn the meeting at 6:04 PM, seconded by Ellis. Vote unanimous. Recorded by, Ericka Lang Economic Development Manager 3 South Milwaukee Bucyrus Civic Grant Awards Report 2023-2025 5/13/2026 Annual grant budget $50,000. Minimum grant $1,000, Maximum grant $25,000 Organization Grant Description Comment 2023 - - 8 applications, totaling $83,800 Friends of the South Milwaukee Library $16,300 New multi-use lab and learning space; upgrade children's play area South Milwaukee Police Department $5,000 New K9 unit Friends of Grant Park $1,600 New trail entry kiosk signs at Seven Bridges [returned $368.42] South Milwaukee Lions Foundation $6,000 New and upgraded electrical service at Lionsfest event space Bucyrus Museum $1,825 New large format scanner for historical collections South Milwaukee Historical Society $4,500 Impr ove website and new Ancestry subscription Warm Up South Milwaukee- Fire Nonprofit $14,775 New senior extinguisher program $50,000 2024 - - 5 applications, totaling $52,950 Friends of the South Milwaukee Library $13,054 New childrens lounge area: 3 children tablets; 3 child computer stations; children furniture [$13,600 approved. Balance returned] South Milwaukee Historical Society $1,000 Dedicated laptop and printer for public access to Ancestry.com Warm Up South Milwaukee- Fire Non profit $11,400 $9000 New defibrillator distribution program (3 devices); $2400 Winter coat drive Lakeview Art Works, under Growing South Milwaukee $20,000 New downtown mural at 907 Milwaukee. [$22,000 a pproved. $2,000 returned] Friends of Mill Pond $2000 returned for approved educational kiosk $45,454 2025 - - 7 applications, totaling $82,600 Human Concerns $6,985 Professi onal grant writer contract Extension re quested Friends of the South Milwaukee Librar y $2,100 Purchase video player & games for young adults/children Growing South Milwaukee $8,000 New storage shed (not replacement) and rainwater collection and solar for community gardens at 1308 Extension to 6/30/2026 MARM Farm Education & Conservation Center $25,000 Purchase 40-ft container urban growing unit for h ydroponic farming with solar panels, rainwater Extension to 7/31/2026 South Milwaukee Historical Society $6,950 New printer/scanner; large format flatbed scanner; lar ge file storage, (Not replacement) City fo South Milwaukee Celebrations Committee $4,500 Professional services c ontract to manage and market new music event "South Milwaukee Jazz & Gos pel $53,535 *carried over unspent funds from 2024 4 Organization Request Amount Description Bucyrus Museum $1,880 Create digital display for archived former Bucyrus employees and numerous print publications: $1,600 Lenovo ThinkPad laptop & $180 Microsoft Home office license $60,000 Professional contract to inventory existing street trees, mapping, staff training, implementation and support for a new city-wide tree planting program $3,500 Purchase 50 Ring Doorbell cameras for new Ring Camera Program. $10,000 3-month contract for professional grant researcher/writer services. $5,000 Contract for professional marketing and mural experience services. $15,000 $6,000 Create a Household Tool Lending Library: acquire tools, storage equipment, and associated supplies. $15,000 Professional limited contract for marketing professional to develop and execute campaigns to promote and fundraise. Total $101,380 Human Concerns South Milwaukee 2026 Bucyrus Civic Grant Applications Applicant Presentation Schedule Thursday May 21st, 5:30 PM, City Hall Committee Room 2424 15th Ave Art Works/Growing South Milwaukee Friends of the South Milwaukee Library South Milwaukee Police Department South Milwaukee Street Department 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 1. History and Mission Art Works was created in January 2023 by five business and building owners on Milwaukee Avenue. It was organized to raise money to create murals for our downtown. Our mission is to develop our downtown into a mural tour destination, adding up to 2 murals every summer. South Milwaukee is tucked away in a beautiful corner of Wisconsin yet so many people are not aware of all the great things in our community. We want to draw in people from surrounding areas as well as our own community to enjoy all that South Milwaukee has to offer. We also believe this will draw in more small businesses interested in being a part of the revival of our downtown. 2. Recent Activity a) During the summer and fall of 2024/2025 we have added 5 new murals, the “Little Shop of Horrors, the Wood Stock Tribute, the Veterans Mural, the Azteca mural and Sam the Sasquatch at the SM Commons. b) One additional Mural was added outside of this committee’s effort, but we believe was inspired by this committee’s work. Joan of Arc was painted on Virtue Coffee and Wine. c) We continue to encourage support through “change makes change” as an on-going fundraiser which involves ten businesses hosting our change donation boxes on their counters. We raise approximately $500 annually. d) We continue to do our annual “Meals for Murals” fundraiser with Azteca Mexican Restaurant, collecting 20% of food sales on a selected night. We raise approximately $600 -$700 annually at this event. e) We are currently organizing our 4th annual, “Paint the Town” Fundraiser. This year’s event will be held in the fall; the date is TBD. Ideas for the event are leaning toward a formal sit-down dinner with live music, Artists live painting to music and a live auction of 2 to 3 pieces from the evening will take place. 3. Project a) Describe the project – Our project will diversify how we fund future community murals by building our ability to successfully apply for grants. Our goal is to secure up to 50% of the funding needed each year through grant opportunities so we can continue adding new murals to our community. Hiring a grant writer to help us create a library of verbiage for grants and to help identify suitable grants to apply for. Marketing is another area where we are seeking a lasting impact. By strengthening our branding and building a stronger social media presence, we can increase community awareness, attract new supporters, and create 18 greater visibility for our mural projects. We plan to hire a recent graduate with marketing experience to help establish a professional and sustainable social media strategy that our organization can continue using long after the initial project is complete. b) List of expenses - $10,000 to hire recommended Free-Lance Grant Writer for a 3 month contract for the summer 2026 and $5000 for hiring the Marketing Specialist for the 2026/2027 Mural Season. See attached proposals. c) What is the need – South Milwaukee is doing a great job of revitalizing our downtown, but it’s a big job and we want to help. d) Key Methods – If we get awarded the grant, we will hire both the Free lance grant writer and the marketing specialist. See proposed contracts attached as supportive documents. 4. How will the money be used? The money will be used to cover the cost of the free-lance grant writer and the marketing specialist. 5. When will it start and finish? The contract with the free lance grant writer will be a 3-month contract starting as early as June 2026. The marketing specialist will begin her engagement with Art Works this summer and will continue through 2026/2027 until funds run out or the 3rd event has been completed. 19 Proposal for Grant Development Services Growing South Milwaukee Art Works Amount: $10,000 Project Term: June 1, 2026 – August 31, 2026 Consultant: Erica Davis, Freelance Grant Writer Project Overview Growing South Milwaukee Art Works is seeking grant development support which would include a three-month contract with Erica Davis, Freelance Grant Writer, to strengthen the organization's long-term fundraising capacity for its expanding Mural Initiative. The Mural Initiative is designed to transform public spaces throughout South Milwaukee into vibrant works of art that celebrate culture and community identity while creating opportunities for neighborhood engagement and economic revitalization. To ensure the sustainability of this initiative, Art Works recognizes the need for a strategic and professional grant development process. Scope of Work During the contract period, Ms. Davis will provide the following services: • Utilize specialized grant research software to identify local, regional, and national funding opportunities aligned with Art Works’ mission. • Conduct interviews with the Art Works leadership team to gain a full understanding of the Mural Initiative and organizational goals. • Gather project details, community impact data, and program priorities to build a stronger funding narrative. • Develop standardized grant language and supporting materials that can be reused for future applications. • Evaluate and recommend the most appropriate grant opportunities that best match the organization's needs. • Create a strategic funding roadmap to improve future grant submission success. Expected Outcomes At the completion of the three-month contract, Growing South Milwaukee Art Works will have: • A library of professional, reusable grant narrative content • A clearer understanding of funding sources best suited for the Mural Initiative • A stronger grant readiness process for future applications • Increased organizational capacity to secure sustainable project funding 20 Growing South Milwaukee Art Works Committee Marketing & Outreach Support Project Summary The Growing South Milwaukee Art Works Committee requests $5,000 to support marketing and outreach for public art initiatives. Through the Downtown Mural Initiative, the committee has raised funds and completed multiple murals that celebrate Art and Community. This funding will cover marketing services, paid advertising, and outreach to promote the next three Art Works events, increase public awareness, and raise funds for additional murals. Strategic marketing will ensure these initiatives reach residents, businesses, and visitors while highlighting the City’s commitment to arts and community development. Scope of work The $5000 will support marketing staff time to plan and execute campaigns, develop content, coordinate with city partners, and manage outreach across multiple platforms. The committee will feature Art Works initiatives in the City’s monthly business newsletter and promote upcoming large community events through the City’s Facebook platform. Grant funds will also support paid digital advertising and printed materials such as flyers and signage. Community Impact With marketing support, the committee expects increased attendance at the next three events, broader awareness of public art initiatives, and stronger fundraising for future murals. This investment will support local businesses, strengthen community pride, and contribute to long-term sustainability and recognition of public art throughout South Milwaukee. About the Marketing Lead Hello, my name is Abby Benn. I recently graduated from UW–Whitewater with a degree in Marketing and have experience creating Meta ads, writing content for newspapers and magazines, developing blog posts, and producing social media content. I will manage promotional efforts for the committee, coordinate with City Communications, and make sure to have consistent outreach across platforms. 21 Growing South Milwaukee | 2026 Organizational Budget Date: April 28, 2026 Program Overview: Estimated Income & Expenses Program / Initiative Estimated Income ($) Estimated Expenses ($) Net Allocation ($) Art Works* 30,000.00 27,000.00 3,000.00 Flip Side Festival of the Arts 8,500.00 7,000.00 1,500.00 SMILE Initiative 3,200.00 2,800.00 400.00 Mix Masters MKE 1,500.00 1,000.00 500.00 Community Garden** 240.00 9,200.00 (8,960.00) Sweet Peas 0.00 2,000.00 (2,000.00) TOTALS 43,440.00 49,000.00 (5,560.00) *Income includes 2026 Civic Grant Funds. **Expense includes 2025 Civic Grant Shed Project 22 Financial Position: Bank Balances (As of 4/28) Account Name Current Balance ($) Shed Project Grant Restricted 8,000.00 General Checking $622.75 General Savings 1,588.44 Art Works Restricted 2,158.00 Flip Side Restricted 1,786.09 Sweet Peas Restricted 3,024.83 SMILE Restricted 1,097.59 Combined Bank Balances 18,277.70 23 Profit and Loss Growing South Milwaukee Date Range: Jan 01, 2025 to Dec 31, 2025 Report Type: Accrual (Paid & Unpaid) ACCOUNTS Jan 01, 2025 to Dec 31, 2025 Income Change Boxes $641.71 Direct Public Support – Business Contributions $14,197.00 Direct Public Support – Individual Contributions $34,715.68 Grant Income $10,000.00 Investments – Interest $1.24 Program Income – Membership Dues $605.00 Program Income – Program Service Fees $1,000.00 Total Income $61,160.63 Total Cost of Goods Sold $0.00 Gross Profit As a percentage of Total Income $61,160.63 100.00% Operating Expenses Accounting Fees $16.00 Bakehouse 23 Lunch Club Grant $6,168.86 Contract Services $33,820.50 Insurance – Property $877.00 Legal Fees $20.00 Marketing $500.00 Profit and Loss - Growing South Milwaukee Created on Apr 28, 2026 Date Range: Jan 01, 2025 to Dec 31, 2025 Page 1 / 2 24 Operating Expenses Printing and Reproduction $1,700.29 Rent Expense $426.00 Site Prep $58.22 Utilities $123.88 Total Operating Expenses $43,710.75 Net Profit As a percentage of Total Income $17,449.88 28.53% Profit and Loss - Growing South Milwaukee Created on Apr 28, 2026 Date Range: Jan 01, 2025 to Dec 31, 2025 Page 2 / 2 25 26 1 | o f 5 Section 3: Project Information 1.Organization history and mission Interested people formed Friends of the South Milwaukee Library as a non-profit in 2019. Its mission was to advance and encourage use of the library and raise resources to meet the library’s needs. Knowing the library receives no funding from the city for programming, the Friends began by selling books discarded by the library and donated by patrons to fund a summer reading program for children. Programs for teens and adults were quickly added. As funding was cut, the library became more dependent on its Friends to support all programming. The Friends is committed to raising and donating at least $5,000 in 2026, up from $4,000 a year from previous years to the South Milwaukee Public Library for its programs. The Friends share the library’s vision to become a community anchor with outreach programs, space to socialize, training and enrichment opportunities for all ages. 2. Recent Activities • Funded materials, prizes and programming for 379 library programs, including the Summer Reading Program, that attracted 8,486 attendees in 2025. • Hosted bake sales and book sales that bring the community together and raise funds for the library. • Started the Repair Café initiative in the Summer of 2025 oƯering free repairs in bicycles, textiles and electronics to South Milwaukee residents. We plan to oƯer this at least twice per year. 3a. Project Description: Tool Lending Library The proposed project will establish and equip a community Tool Lending Library, based out of the South Milwaukee Public Library. This Tool library will enable residents to borrow commonly needed household, repair, and maintenance tools at no cost. Grant funds will be used to purchase essential hand tools, power tools, safety equipment, storage solutions, and basic inventory management supplies. This project will significantly improve organizational operations by allowing the library to continue adapting its collection for City of South Milwaukee residents’ needs. 27 2 | o f 5 3b. Estimated Expenses Tool Library Equipment and Supplies:  Core hand tools (hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches): $750  Power tools (drills, sanders, saws): $1,750  Safety and measurement tools (gas detector pen, decibel meter, infrared thermometer): $500  Other requested tools, examples listed in SI $1,250  Tool storage, shelving, and transport cases: $1,250  Inventory labeling and basic tracking materials: $500 Total Project Cost: $6,000 3c. What is the need for and significance of this project and who will be served? Several South Milwaukee residents lack access to tools required for basic home maintenance, repairs, and small projects, often leading to unnecessary expenses or the disposal of repairable items. This project directly addresses economic and material barriers faced by renters, homeowners on fixed incomes, students, and families who cannot justify purchasing infrequently used tools. By providing shared access, the Tool Library reduces household costs, prevents waste, and builds practical skills, serving South Milwaukee residents with particular benefit to low- and moderate-income households. 3d. What will be the key methods and activities to operate/implement this project? The project will be implemented through the following methods:  Purchasing durable, high-demand tools based on community feedback  Establishing clear borrowing policies and safety guidelines  Organizing tools using a basic inventory and checkout system  Integrating the Tool Library into existing library-based programming  Conducting outreach through library channels, community newsletters, and word- of-mouth  Checkout will be completed by library staƯ per checkout and circulation procedures. 28 3 | o f 5  Liability is likely addressed by existing insurance, this will be verified by library director to ensure coverage. In consultation with the Franklin library, which has an extensive operating tool library, a tool library is covered under existing insurance. In addition, an extensive liability waiver is provided during checkout, and the patron has to read and sign before completing checkout.  Friends’ volunteers will support tool preparation, maintenance, and user education. There are currently 50 Friends members out of which around 40% actively volunteer throughout the year. 4. When will the project start and finish? The project is expected to begin as soon as grant is approved with tool procurement and setup and conclude within 6 months of approval with the Tool Library fully operational and available for community use. Initial months will focus on purchasing and organizing tools, followed by ongoing lending services. 2025 Income Statement 2025 Expenses Annual donation to SMPL $6,000 Beanstack access $630 Black History Event $350 Annual Wisconsin Filing Fee $25 Annual Wisconsin RaƯle License $25 Barre classes $950 Contingency $500 2025 Revenue Bake sales $770 barre donations $1,021 book nook $2,374 book sales $2,418 cousins fundraisers $505 Money Market account interest $272 Membership Fees $243 Private Donations $955 2025 Bucyrus Civic Grant for Nintendo Switch 2 Consoles (Total $2,580.56*) *Total actual expenditures for the project were $2,580.56 because the Library purchased two of the newly released Nintendo Switch 2 players instead of the original Nintendo 29 4 | o f 5 switch. The Friends of the South Milwaukee Library paid for the overage of $480.56 including the sales tax incurred. 2025 Civic Grant Funds 2025 Grant Received $2,100 Friends Contribution $480.56 2025 Civic Grant Expenses Two Nintendo Switch 2 Consoles $999.98 Sales Tax on Console Purchase $59.00 Locking case for Nintento Switch Installed in Computer Lab $149.89 Screen Protectors $8.99 4 Joy Con Controllers $160.00 Nintendo Game Cartridges $1202.70 2026 Budget Revenue and Expenses 2026 Projected Expenses Annual donation to SMPL $6,000 Beanstack access $630 Black History Event $350 Annual Wisconsin Filing Fee $25 Annual Wisconsin RaƯle License $25 Library barre classes $1,100 Contingency $500 Referendum Campaign $1,800 Library Yoga Classes $1,000 2026 Projected Revenue Bake sales $800 Barre donations $1,000 book nook $2,500 book sales $2,400 cousins fundraisers $500 Money Market account interest $250 Membership Fees $240 30 5 | o f 5 Area Pictures Currently the library has a public facing area where the empty hard cases for items are displayed as seen in Figure 1. To check out, the patron selects the item from this area and brings it to the checkout counter, there a librarian processes the request and locates the item and brings it to the checkout counter. The public facing area will remain where it is. The area to place and store the tools while inside the library will be in the West facing wall in the library basement as pictured in Figure 2. Figure 1-Public Facing LoT Area Figure 2-Storage area for LoT 31 32 33 3 | o f 3 S u p p o r t i n g I n f o r m a t i o n FOREARM FORKLIFT Forearm forklift. 0 GAS DETECTOR Combustible gas leak detector pen / General Tools & Instruments. 3 HEX HAMMER DRIVER KIT Milwaukee Tool M12 Fuel 1/4 hex impact driver and M12 fuel 1/2 hammer drill/driver with 61-piece driver bit set / Milwaukee Tool. 17 HIGH PRESSURE WASHER Electric pressure washer / Ryobi. 14 JIG SAW KIT Milwaukee Tool M18 Fuel D-handle jig saw and blades / Milwaukee Tool. 13 LASER LEVEL AND TRIPOD Self-leveling cross-line laser level and laser level tripod / Bauer. 23 NAIL GUN Framing nailer / Metabo HPT. 9 ORBITAL SHEET SANDER Milwaukee Tool M18 orbital 1/4 sheet sander / Milwaukee Tool. 5 POLE SAW DeWalt 20v max brushless 8 foot pole saw / DeWalt. 22 PRESSURE WASHER DeWalt electric pressure washer / DeWalt. 36 RANDOM ORBIT SANDER DeWalt random orbit sander : 5 hook and loop / DeWalt. 9 SAWHORSES Performax heavy-duty folding sawhorses. 1 SAWZALL RECIP SAW Milwaukee Tool M18 Fuel reciprocating saw with blades / Milwaukee Tool. 13 SHOP VAC Wet/dry vacuum / Shop-Vac. 6 SOIL TESTER Rapitest digital 4-way analyzer / Luster Leaf. 9 STUD FINDER Professional stud finder. 16 TILE CUTTER QEP professional tile cutter. 16 VERSA TOOL Creative versa-tool for wood burning / Walnut Hollow. 2 WEED WRENCH Weed wrench / Uprooter. 17 34 35 36 37 38 39 South Milwaukee Civic Commission 5/12/2026 2025 Bucyrus Civic Grant Awards Organization Actual Expenses Project description 1 Human Concerns $6,985 $6,554 Hire professional grant writer 2 Friends of the South Milwaukee Library $2,100 $2,581 Purchase video player & games for young adults/children 3 Growing South Milwaukee Extension Request to 6/30/2026 $8,000 Build storage shed and port with rainwater collection and solar for community gardens at 1308 Milwaukee. 4 MARM Farm Extension Request to 7/31/2026 to complete solar power $4,000 $3,500 Purchase/delivery of shipping container $18,500 $15,772 Purchase hydroponic units, solar panels, rainwater system $2,500 Purchase classroom equipment $25,000 $19,272 5 South Milwaukee Historical Society $600 $635 Replace printer/scanner for faster scanning. Epson FastFoto FF-680W high speed wireless desktop photo scanner $3,850 $4,351 Purchase flatbed scanner for oversized photos/documents 12"x17". Epson Expression 13000XL Archival photo & graphics flatbed scanner $3699 + $625.44 flatbed scanner negative attachment $2,500 $2,077 Purchase acid-free horizontal 5-drawer storage for large files. VSP Aylord Archival $2076.73 $6,950 $7,064 6 City fo South Milwaukee Celebrations Committee Create new music event "South Milwaukee Jazz & Gospel Fest" at Bucyrus Commons $1,500 $1,895 Professional services: Advertising and marketing $2,500 $2,500 Professional service contract for management services $500 $465 Additional services or equipment (insurance, merch) $4,500 $4,860 $53,535 $50,000 Annual Fund. 2024 unspent grant funds $3,535 were carried over into 2025 grant cycle 5/13/26 requested summary report of all expenses; consultant invoices and what grants applied for and received. Convert 40-foot shipping container into SCUGU- self-contained urban growing unit for sustainable hydroponic farming, also used for education. Half of produce will be donated to Human Concerns 40 2025 Financial Report South Milwaukee Historical Society- Civic Grant 41 42 43 44 45 2025 Civic Grant SM Historical Society Flatbed scanner with negative attachment 5-drawer acid-free storage Epson printer/scanner Fast-Foto not shown 46 47 South Milwaukee Friends of Public Library 2025 Bucyrus Civic Grant purchases 2 Nintendo cons oles and games that can be checked out 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 2025 Civic Grant Jazz in July event from South Milwaukee Celebrations Committee 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 To: Bucyrus Foundation Civic Grant Committee From: Leah Minue, Growing South Milwaukee May 12, 2026 Dear Ericka and grant team, I am writing to formally request an extension for the completion of our garden shed project. Due to the significant rainfall we have experienced recently, our construction timeline has been delayed by saturated ground conditions. We have remained in close contact with our contractor to ensure the project moves forward as quickly as possible. The current revised schedule is as follows: ● May 23, 2026: Installation of the gravel bed foundation. ● June 2026: Assembly of the shed structure and completion of all peripheral components. We anticipate having the project fully finalized before the end of June. We are eager to get this infrastructure in place to better serve our organic community gardens and the South Milwaukee neighborhood. Thank you for your understanding and continued support of our community initiatives. Please let me know if you require any further documentation regarding this request. Sincerely, Leah Minue Growing South Milwaukee 2025 Civic Grant Growing South Milwaukee - extension request 68 Ericka Lang City of South Milwaukee 2424 15th Ave. South Milwaukee, WI 53172 April 23, 2026 Ellen Colby Executive Director The MARM Farm Education and Conservation Center 2217 S. Allis St. Milwaukee, WI 53207 414-356-2420 www.marmfarm.org marmfarmmke@gmail.com Dear Ericka, I am writing to formally request an extension for the use of the Bucyrus Civic Grant funds awarded to the MARM Farm. Due to initial delays in finalizing our project location and securing an approved lease, our project timeline has shifted, and we require additional time to complete certain weather-sensitive components. Our current project budget remains on track, with the exception of the $5,000 allocated for alternative energy installation, which has not yet been spent. We anticipate completing the purchase and installation of this energy system by July 31, 2026. We appreciate your understanding and support as we work to ensure the successful implementation of our project. Kindly let us know the process for extending the grant timeline. Thank you for your continued partnership on this exciting initiative. Warm Regards, Ellen Colby 2025 CIVIC GRANT REPORT MARM FARM. Extension Request 69 70 71 72 INVOICE MIT Rental LLC 1225 S Carferry Dr Milwaukee, WI 53207 Phone: 414-807-8360 INVOICE # 1749 DATE: 01/13/26 PURCHASED BY: Ellen Colby The MARM Farm 2217 S Allis St Milwaukee, WI 53207 Phone: 414-651-9212 SHIP TO: Ellen Colby South Milwaukee Municipal Bldg 2424 15 th Ave South Milwaukee, WI 53172 Phone: 414-651-9212 COMMENTS OR SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS: Due upon receipt – tax exempt QUANTITY DESCRIPTION UNIT PRICE TOTAL 1 40’ x 8’ Standard 3500.00 3500.00 Subtotal 3500.00 Sales tax 0.00 Shipping and handling 0.00 TOTAL DUE 3500.00 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 South Milwaukee, Wisconsin 5-13-2026 1 SOUTH MILWAUKEE BUCYRUS CIVIC GRANT PROGRAM, ADOPTED 2023 PROGRAM REVIEW COMMENTS SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION ITEMS • Local government eligibility • Fixed assets eligibility criteria • Professional services eligibility criteria • Potential to limit frequency of applications by organization • Application submission requirements and reporting requirements • Timing of fund allocation • Extension requests COMMON COUNCIL COMMENTS 5/5/26 • Review program with Licensing & Permit Committee • Should there be a limit of how often an organization can receive awards • Should professional services remain eligible or limited • Unallocated or unspent funds should not carryover to the following cycle CIVIC COMMISSION The five-member Civic Grants Commission, appointed by the common council, evaluate applications and recommend funding annually to the Common Council. BUCYRUS CIVIC GRANT FUNDING $50,000 annual budget. Min $1,000 up to $25,000. Funds awarded in May. COMMENT – in 2025 grant commissioners carried over unspent funds from the previous cycle Funding priorities 1. Civic development 2. Arts and Culture 3. Health and Human Services 4. Education 5. Public benefit/community improvement 6. Environment The Grants Commission judges the merits of each application and amount of funding based on the criteria, available funds, past experience and history and other tangible and intangible criteria. It is reserved as the sole decision-maker regarding grant awards. ELIGIBILITY Must be classified as a 501(c)(3) (operating one or more years) by the Internal Revenue Service or be a local government agency. Applicant organizations must operate within or directly serve the City of South Milwaukee and funds must be used for the benefit of the community. COMMENTS • COMMISSION TO DISCUSS eligibility of local government agencies 1. Fire Department – received grants for new AED program, new Warm Up South Milwaukee winter coat donations, a new fire extinguisher program for senior 2. Police Department – received grants for new K9 program. 2026 application for new Ring program Review Criteria 1. Degree to which the proposed activity is appropriate for funding: scale Low to High 2. Impact the activity will have on the community 3. How many people will be served 4. Stability of the program 5. Quality of the services offered 84 South Milwaukee, Wisconsin 5-13-2026 2 3. Streets Department- applied for tree inventory for new city-wide street tree program (separate from Adopt-A-Tree) Eligible Grant Items a) Existing program improvements or program expansion to reach a unique audience. COMMENT • Examples: 1. Professional services for improving operations, grow volunteers, attract investment, process improvements, for example:  Marketing/branding/communications  Create and update website  Grant writing services  New technologies, software, including implementation b) New innovative programs that address an unmet community need. COMMENT • Examples: 1. MARM SGUGU: New community urban farm and education. 2025 grant 2. SM Library: New community tech lab for IT supplies. 2023 grant 3. Art Works: public art mural. 2024 grant c) New fixed assets to improve organizations capacity to serve the community with consideration given to other system improvements. COMMENT • FIXED ASSET DEFINITION: 1. It is tangible and has physical substance (storage, fixtures, furniture) 2. It is used in operations rather than held for resale. 3. It is long‑term in nature, typically lasting multiple years. • COMMISSION TO DISCUSS GENERAL OPERATING EXPENSES 1. Program states General Operating Expenses are not eligible 2. General operating expenses for equipment is described as equipment that is small and routine. If equipment is large and capital in nature, then it is not a general expense.  COMMISSION REVIEWED STORAGE and concluded not eligible • Committee concluded that replacing storage with better equipment, whether results in increased storage, longevity of what storing, or whether never had and would improve operations, is not eligible. • Previous requests from Human Concerns, Bucyrus Museum, and SM Historical Society were not eligible. In 2025 the commission approved one specific storage bin for preserving large documents and images for the Historical Society. They did not have any storage equipment for these sized documents. d) Capacity building efforts that benefit existing nonprofit organizations. COMMENT • Examples: 1. Board development, training and succession planning 2. Develop volunteer attraction campaign • COMMISSION TO DISCUSS 1. Some grant awards are for new programs and affiliated equipment. The financial reports do not contain documentation of a written new program or affiliated expenses.  Examples: • SMFD new Senior Extinguisher Program. Grant paid for extinguishers 85 South Milwaukee, Wisconsin 5-13-2026 3 • SMFD new Warm Up winter coat program. Grant paid for coats. • SMFD new defibrillator program. Grant paid for AEDs e) Vibrant art and cultural amenities and other activities that offer experiences for residents and visitors. COMMENT • Commission noted a mural shifts community identity and helps transform the downtown • Commission agreed a unique and initial performances may be eligible, or creating a new outdoor performance program. • Commission agreed a second mural from Art Works would not be eligible. • For murals, the sign code does not allow a mural to advertise a business or have a theme that is the same as the business in the building the mural is on. • Examples: 1. Art Works was awarded a grant for a mural on 907 Milwaukee. 2. Celebrations Committee 2025 award for Jazz in July event f) Programs that encourage collaborative partnerships that employ comprehensive strategies to strengthen community systems. COMMENT • Examples: 1. Health departments, clinics, and a nonprofit that address a health disparity 2. Library, youth organization and maybe workforce agency that co-deliver tutoring, job- readiness workshops 3. Various wraparound services for mental health, housing, and safety g) Programs that empower individuals or groups of people with the skills they need to effect change. COMMENT • Examples: Training for new program, required skills, leadership h) Organization’s planning needs related directly to how they might achieve their mission through strategic planning, merger conversations, and similar efforts. COMMENT • Examples: Develop diverse revenue strategies to strengthen donor stewardship processes and improve financial planning tools i) Community initiatives that advance solutions to community’s greatest challenges using innovative strategies and a collaborative spirit j) New projects that sustain a healthy local community and provide opportunities for outdoor entertainment and recreation. COMMENT • Examples: 1. MARM Farms SCUGU. 2025 grant Ineligible Grant Items Grants will not be considered for: a) Organizations which discriminate on the basis of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, national origin, religious affiliation, or presence of a disability. b) Organizations whose primary purpose is to influence legislation or to participate in a political campaign. c) Faith-based organizations that do not serve persons outside of their membership, include proselytizing in programs, or condition receipt of services on belief in a particular faith. 86 South Milwaukee, Wisconsin 5-13-2026 4 d) Sport organizations or booster clubs’ that are part of the School District e) South Milwaukee School District (Has dedicated annual Bucyrus Foundation funding) f) Direct support of individuals. COMMENT • COMMISSION TO DISCUSS 1. Only limited professional contracted work is eligible 2. Commission noted that internships are not eligible, whether working on eligible project or not. Discussed 2023 3. 2025 Human Concerns approved grant for a grant writer hired individuals 4. 2026 Human Concerns application states they would hire a recent college graduate to do. Proof of legal entity/name should be required g) General fund drives COMMENT • COMMISSION TO DISCUSS 1. Commission discussed fund drives for a specific improvement and differentiating from maintenance. If grant does not cover 100% of project, could approve if completed within grant year. • Commission denied funds for Human Concerns annual fundraising event • SMFD Warm Up nonprofit winter coat drive is a new program for the nonprofit and awarded a grant. h) Building or capital campaigns COMMENT • Commission discussed differentiating between improving a building and maintainance. i) General operating expenses SEE COMMENT UNDER ELIGIBLE j) Preschools, day care centers, nursing homes, etc. k) Tickets, raffles, golf outings or sponsorships COMMENT • Commission denied First Responders Children’s Foundation for sponsoring a South Milwaukee individual l) Conduit organizations COMMENT • Some foundations are conduit organizations, but most are not m) Organizations with an “active” grant. COMMENT • Commission asks applicant. No other investigation is done n) Projects that have been completed 87