Crump to take over as development commissioner
For the first time in more than a decade, Milwaukee’s Department of City Development will have a new leader at its helm next week.
The Common Council unanimously approved Mayor Tom Barrett’s appointment of Lafayette Crump as the new Milwaukee development commissioner on Tuesday in a 15-0 vote.
Crump will assume office next Wednesday. Until then, current development commissioner Rocky Marcoux — who announced his retirement in May after 16 years as commissioner — will continue in the role.
“It’s just an incredible opportunity to work with Mayor Barrett to ensure that Milwaukee is a place where everyone who lives here has the opportunity to have the kind of life that they want,” Crump said. “It’s an opportunity to not just do that for the residents who are already here, but for people that we might attract.”
Crump is currently serving as chief diversity, vendor and engagement officer at the Milwaukee 2020 Host Committee for the Democratic National Convention.
Crump has led Prism Technical
Management & Marketing Services LLC, a consulting firm that works with developers and general contractors to hire subcontractors that are disadvantaged businesses enterprises, which are typically owned by women and people of color. Prism has consulted on several notable Milwaukee projects, such as the construction of Fiserv Forum, Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Co.’s office tower and the new BMO Tower.
As development commissioner, Crump said he’s excited to shift gears and work from within government to bring about positive changes in development.
“I’ve had the opportunity to work with the administration on previous projects, but to be a part of helping to shape the vision that comes out of city government — it’s a real privilege that I’m humbled to take on,” Crump said.
Crump emphasized that he wants to work to promote development throughout the city, both downtown and in the neighborhoods, to ensure that “people can live, work and play in every part of the city.”