Milwaukee requests $50 million federal security grant for 2020 Democratic National Convention

Bill Glauber
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Fiserv Forum is the main venue for the 2020 Democratic National Convention in Milwaukee.

The City of Milwaukee has requested a federal grant of $50 million to cover security costs for the 2020 Democratic National Convention.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett made the announcement during a City Hall news conference Wednesday.

In late December, Congress approved $100 million in grant funding for the convention cities. Charlotte, N.C., host of the Republican convention, will also get its $50 million outlay.

"Since 2004, Congress has consistently awarded funding for presidential nominating conventions in recognition that no host city has the ability to fully absorb the cost," Barrett said.

The two conventions are considered to be National Security Events, similar to the Super Bowl and international summits.

Barrett said the grant funding is to "provide a safe and secure environment for Milwaukee residents, all DNC participants, delegates, news media, protesters, service providers and the general public."

Barrett said the grant covers the proposed costs for the police and fire departments with a significant amount going to cover personnel costs for police officers and firefighters from other jurisdictions.

The Bureau of Justice Assistance Grant program under the Department of Justice requires significant documentation to get reimbursed.

Barrett said he and other city officials have spoken with representatives from past convention cities to learn best practices.

"We're going to try and make sure we're dotting every i, crossing every t, following procurement rules, making sure the items are reimbursable under this grant," Barrett said.

Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales said the visit by President Donald Trump Tuesday provided a "snippet of what you're going to see this summer."