The Executive Director and Members of the East Side BID Board

The Board is responsible for overseeing the operations of the East Side Business Improvement District #20

Members of the BID Board are appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Common Council. The Board is responsible for overseeing the operations of the BID, including but not limited to, providing guidance and direction to the Executive Director. The BID submits an annual Operating Plan to the City of Milwaukee which includes the BID’s goals, budget and proposed tax assessment formula that funds the BIDs activities. The BID Board meets 8 times per year.

Officers:

PRESIDENT – Joey Wisniewski (New Land Enterprises/Wiskullsin)

VICE PRESIDENT – Spencer Kronz (East Side Family Chiropractic)

TREASURER – Vacant

SECRETARY – Michael Vitucci (Murray Avenue Partnership/Izzy Hops)

Members:

Tim Gohkman (New Land Enterprises)

Beth Lobner (University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee)

Tracy Wymelenberg (Advocate Health)

Kristen Heller (MKE Film)

David Knutson (The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee)

Bid Staff:

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR – Ryan Laessig

RECENT BLOG POSTS

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September 30, 2026 | East Side BID

Two Years, A Lot to Celebrate!

Two years ago, Ryan Laessig stepped into the role of Executive Director of the East Side BID. Somehow, in just two years, he’s managed to squeeze a whole lot of ideas, events, murals, new businesses, bike rides, plaza parties and ambitious neighborhood projects into the mix.

July 08, 2026 |

Summer Soulstice 2026 Brings Music, Community, and Summer Energy to Milwaukee's East Side

On Saturday, June 13, thousands of people filled the streets of the East Side for another unforgettable Summer Soulstice Music Festival. The neighborhood came alive with live music, art, delicious food, shopping, and the kind of community energy that makes Summer Soulstice one of Milwaukee's favorite summer traditions.

September 18, 2025 | East Side BID

Celebrating One Year of Leadership: Ryan Laessig’s First Year with the East Side BID

Congratulations to our Executive Director, Ryan Laessig, on an incredible first year leading the East Side Business Improvement District! From his first introduction in Fall 2024 to now, Ryan has brought fresh energy, community focus, and creative vision to the vibrant arts hub of the East Side.

director@theeastside.org

OFFICE LOCATION

2160 N. Farwell Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53202

MAILING ADDRESS

PO Box 510197
Milwaukee, WI 53203

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Welcome to the creative crossroads of the East Side Milwaukee. The East Side Business Improvement District is responsible for the management, promotion, and staffing for the commercial area.
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The East Side Business Improvement District, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, has been working to enhance and strengthen our neighborhood with a variety of events, programs, and initiatives.

© 2026 Brought to you by the East Side Business Improvement District.

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