Failed Leader ? John O. Norquist
Executive Summary
John O. Norquist took office in 1988. He said he would "shake things up". The question remains, is Milwaukee better off than in 1988? The termination of his mayoral career went beyond the sex scandal, his lack of communication skills were his true downfall.
This lack of skills became evident with the number of missed opportunities that occurred during his tenure. Even though he had some successes, the river walk, an increase in downtown housing particularly in the third ward, and his "new urbanisms", he failed the city on a whole. Some of the failures included not taking Milwaukee to join the competition for high tech businesses, to create a strong university connection in research and entrepreneurial innovation, and not creating strong regional and international transportation links.
Democrat John O. Norquist elected mayor of Milwaukee Wisconsin in 1988. He was mayor for 15 years. He earned a reputation for streamlining city government and promoting economic growth. Under his leadership, Milwaukee cut tax rates six years in a row. Mayor Norquist took bold positions on crucial urban issues. He called for abolishing welfare and was a vocal advocate for school choice. He authored a renowned book "The Wealth of Cities". So, why is he considered the mayor of missed opportunities?
Mayor Norquist, replacing the mayor of 28 years, Mayor Henry Maier, said he would "shake things up." Milwaukee felt it was time for a change and a new direction. It was time f ...