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Michael Murphy not seeking re-election
The longest-serving Milwaukee alderman is not seeking re-election in spring.
MILWAUKEE - The longest-serving alderman on Milwaukee's Common Council will not seek re-election. Michael Murphy announced his decision on Monday, Oct. 30.
Take one look around his office, you will see the walls can sort of talk for Alderman Michael Murphy.
"We all think we're irreplaceable, but we're not," Murphy said. "I love what I do, and you come to work, and you're happy. Quite honestly, this is not work."
Michael Murphy
But after 35 years, the longest-tenured member of the current Common Council, now says it is time for something new.
"For people who believe in term limits, it was probably a good thing," Murphy said.
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Murphy hangs his hat on his work to address housing inequality, lead pipes and the opioid crisis. He said he is most proud of just being a good public servant.
Michael Murphy
A business owner and a homeowner in the city's 10th District tell FOX6 News they really do not want their representation to change.
"It's hard to lose somebody that damn good," said John Cakonic, who hopes Murphy's successor will not be too different.
"He was right on the job. He knew what he was doing. He was fair and honest with ya, the best way of handling it," Cakonic said.
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A little farther east on Vliet Street, "Dandy" owner Ryan Day echoes that message.
"Somebody who knows the neighborhood, someone who can work with us directly. He was always available to us, and that was a great help to us," Day said.
As one door closes at the council, Murphy has ideas for whoever is next too.
Michael Murphy
"You have to be willing to sacrifice -- and you should if you want to be somebody who serves a long term -- your own personal ambitions and put people first," Murphy said.
Murphy joins Alderman Mark Borkowski in not seeking re-election in April. Their decisions mean between April of 2023 and next year, at least one-third of the council will have turned over – because every seat is up for re-election next spring.
Alderman Murphy's official statement
"This coming April, I will have served as your Alderman for 35 years, making me the third-longest serving Alderman in the City’s history when I leave office in April 2024. For those who are counting, that was back in 1989 and 9 elections ago. During all those years, I’m very lucky to be one of those people who can say they love what they do for a living.
"However, all good things come to an end. I’ve decided not to seek re-election as your elected representative on the Milwaukee Common Council. Making this decision wasn’t easy, but after long walks and talks with my family and friends, I feel the time is right.
"As the firstborn American son of Irish immigrants, my parents instilled in me and my brothers and sister the responsibility of public service and helping those most in need. I’ve always tried to honor that principle and serve the people of Milwaukee with the hope of making our city better. I hope I did.
"I will always be grateful to you, the voters, for giving me the opportunity of serving you. I’m also thankful of the many public service employees, my fellow Aldermen and Mayors whose support and encouragement allowed me to do my job of improving the lives of my constituents.
"Public service is an honor and privilege. Thank you for granting me that honor."