Expanding Sweet Water Organics

I am working with James Godsil, Steve Lindner, and partners on significantly expanding Sweet Water Organics fish farm in Bay View. They are continuing the tradition of this part of the city being a leader in progressive and creative initiatives. From a marketing perspective it is good for Bay View development to promote these types of initiatives.

These pioneers raise organic fish at 2151 S. Robinson Ave. and they are on target to raise 50,000 organic fish in our urban environment. By raising fish locally they are helping the environment by reducing the need to transport fish over great distances with trucks. Similarly, they are helping the local economy with jobs. Lastly, they are helping health-conscious people by providing more options for organic fish. 

At this time, they have contracts with Roundy’s and a number of other grocery stores and restaurants. With city help, however, we can help them significantly expand their operations and maximize their growth potential. We are exploring programs such as New Market Tax Credits, accelerated depreciation, bonding, Renewal Community credits, low-interest loans, and a Tax Incremental Finance District.

In closing, identifying ways to raise and grow food in densely populated urban environments is going to be a major growth field and areas that understand, promote, and lead will thrive.

Tony Zielinski is the city of Milwaukee’s alderman for the 14th District, which includes Bay View. He can be reached at tzieli@milwaukee.gov or (414) 286-3769.

Copyright 2010 by Bay View Compass. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.