As the commissioner of city development for the City of Milwaukee, Lafayette Crump says that he leads by protecting and supporting his team, being open and vocal about his vision and motivations and diving passionately into the work that he does. “I model vulnerability, work ethic, confidence, patience and boldness,” said Crump. “Just because something hasn’t been done before doesn’t mean that it shouldn’t be done or can’t be done.”
His business is the growth, revitalization and increased equity of the City of Milwaukee. “My passion for this work is ignited by driving around the city, imagining what could be, reminding myself that everyone deserves a beautiful neighborhood, exciting amenities and valuable opportunities,” said Crump.
The Department of City Development is the City of Milwaukee’s business and real estate development arm. Its mission is to improve the quality of life in Milwaukee by guiding and promoting development that creates jobs, builds wealth and strengthens the urban environment.
Under Crump, the Department of City Development has implemented Milwaukee’s first collective affordable housing plan and has been an instrumental part of advancing two major initiatives: attracting and securing the 2024 Republican National Convention and solidifying a 2 percent sales tax to ensure that Milwaukee can continue to provide essential services and maintain staff to continue doing great work.
Crump has also led the development on a new downtown plan for the City of Milwaukee. Connecting MKE 2040 is a bold vision for transforming downtown Milwaukee, and its surrounding areas, into a vibrant, equitable, inviting and prosperous gem that is attractive and impactful for residents and visitors alike. “Through implementation of our downtown plan and our zoning overhaul, we will create the Milwaukee of the future,” said Crump.
As a leader, Crump said he focuses on mentoring others. “People continue to need guidance, coaching and leadership even when they have been in their role for a long time or appear to be competent – even exceptionally competent – at what they do,” he said. “There is a difference between checking in and micro-managing. There is a difference between gentle guidance and demanding a specific course of action.”
Looking toward the future is also his specialty. “We can get so caught up in addressing our immediate problems that we do not think about how to solve for the problems 5, 10 and 20 years down the road,” said Crump. “Youth mentorship and development is therefore a passion of mine and an important part of my work.”
For his continued commitment to enhancing the overall landscape of the city and mentoring others to continue to grow, Crump has been named a second-year titan.
