Get to know the MPA Board
Carl Bahneman
- My passion for preservation is one that both my wife and I share. We love the city of Milwaukee and love just driving around look at historic houses and buildings. We also lament (curse) the loss of beautiful and unique buildings. I have no specific formal training in engineering and architecture, just an interest in learning more about both. I became familiar with MPA through their work on protecting the Domes. My wife and I are big gardeners who are at the Domes regularly. Understanding the severe strain on the infrastructure and the lack of funding to repair, I decided I wanted to be engaged in protecting this landmark. Since I was recently retired and have an MBA in Nonprofit Administration, I thought I could add a lot to MPA. This has been a great experience so far and has only increased my passion. I also feel so lucky to be able to work with a great staff and Board who have an incredible passion and knowledge they are more than willing to share.
1. What three words best define you?
Fun, Type A ( I know that is two words), Loyal
2. What is your guiding principle?
I am a Gemini and we are the peacemakers. I try to avoid conflict and bring people together to find common ground.
3. What’s your favorite book? Movie?
I am a non-fiction reader and while the topic is pretty heavy it is important and speaks to a big problem in Milwaukee. The book is Evicted by Matthew Desmond. My 2 favorites are too close to pick, Glory and The Mission.
4. What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
When I was in college 40 years ago I ran for the State Assembly against Tom Barrett in the Democratic Primary. Needless to say, I lost and he went on to do pretty well for himself.
5. What is your favorite free time activity?
Being newly retired, my wife and I are doing so many things. Gardening (we have a native prairie), Going to estate sales (we are supposed to be downsizing) and travelling.
6. Where is your favorite place in Milwaukee? Outside of Milwaukee?
We are fans of many neighborhoods in Milwaukee but probably Third Ward, Walkers Point and Bay View corridor are my favorites.
7. If you could become a fictional character for a day, who would it be?
Harry Potter
8. What inspires you and why?
My wife because she has put up with me for 35 years and she always finds the good in everything and is kind to all. Something I will continue to strive for.
9. What do you see as the future of historic preservation?
I have learned so much from my short time on the Board and I think the future is bright. I realized that it is not just older people who care about preserving the past and our historic building, but the younger generation has a passion as well. That is an opportunity that MPA needs to continue to take advantage of, getting our message out to all generations.
10. Why should people support MPA?
Because we do go work and have a proven track record and a passionate leader and Board who care about our city and with additional support we can help continue the upward trajectory of Milwaukee.
Fun, Type A ( I know that is two words), Loyal
2. What is your guiding principle?
I am a Gemini and we are the peacemakers. I try to avoid conflict and bring people together to find common ground.
3. What’s your favorite book? Movie?
I am a non-fiction reader and while the topic is pretty heavy it is important and speaks to a big problem in Milwaukee. The book is Evicted by Matthew Desmond. My 2 favorites are too close to pick, Glory and The Mission.
4. What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
When I was in college 40 years ago I ran for the State Assembly against Tom Barrett in the Democratic Primary. Needless to say, I lost and he went on to do pretty well for himself.
5. What is your favorite free time activity?
Being newly retired, my wife and I are doing so many things. Gardening (we have a native prairie), Going to estate sales (we are supposed to be downsizing) and travelling.
6. Where is your favorite place in Milwaukee? Outside of Milwaukee?
We are fans of many neighborhoods in Milwaukee but probably Third Ward, Walkers Point and Bay View corridor are my favorites.
7. If you could become a fictional character for a day, who would it be?
Harry Potter
8. What inspires you and why?
My wife because she has put up with me for 35 years and she always finds the good in everything and is kind to all. Something I will continue to strive for.
9. What do you see as the future of historic preservation?
I have learned so much from my short time on the Board and I think the future is bright. I realized that it is not just older people who care about preserving the past and our historic building, but the younger generation has a passion as well. That is an opportunity that MPA needs to continue to take advantage of, getting our message out to all generations.
10. Why should people support MPA?
Because we do go work and have a proven track record and a passionate leader and Board who care about our city and with additional support we can help continue the upward trajectory of Milwaukee.
