Two Near West Side landlords, Sukhwinder Singh (Mike) of R&K Liquor, and Bob Sumwalt Patterson of Mulberry Hill Garden, were recently honored at NWSP’s monthly Landlord Compact Meeting.
The Landlord Compact Meetings meetings provide a platform for landlords in the Near West Side to receive updates and address issues concerning properties in the area.
Topics discussed often include:
- Online resources for assessing property values and conditions in Milwaukee;
- Street safety;
- Noise concerns; and
- Effectiveness of local police efforts.
In June, NWSP introduced a new award recognizing landlords and businesses that positively impact the Near West Side community. This new recognition aims to celebrate those making a meaningful difference in the neighborhood.
Read about both recipients below:
Sukhwinder Singh (Mike) – R&K Liquor
Sukhwinder Singh, known as Mike, is the landlord of R&K Liquor at 2537 W State Street, and was recommended by the Department of Neighborhood Services for his responsiveness and dedication to their requests.
Alongside his commitment to following guidelines, NWSP acknowledged Mike’s long-standing community involvement. Having lived in the area for over 20 years, Mike is beloved by residents for his kindness and generosity. He owns three local businesses, including R&K Liquor, and is known for consistently supporting the community through cleanups and donations.
A regular attendee of the Landlord Compact Meetings, he’s only ever missed one meeting due to injury. Mike’s positive influence on the Near West Side made him a deserving recipient of this new award.
Bob Sumwalt Patterson – Mulberry Hill Garden
Bob Sumwalt Patterson, landlord of Mulberry Hill Garden at 620 N 26th Street, was nominated by his neighbor, Jim Deeder, for Bob’s contributions to the community. Established in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mulberry Hill Garden just completed its fourth summer of providing fresh food and a beautiful green space for residents.
Two years ago, the garden donated 4,000 lbs of fresh produce to the community, exemplifying Patterson’s commitment to healthy food accessibility. In addition to being a food source, Mulberry Hill Garden serves as a local agriculture academy, training the next generation of urban farmers right here in the Near West Side. Today, the garden continues to be a vital community resource, though it relies on donations and volunteers to sustain its efforts.
Volunteers play a crucial role in maintaining this valuable space. Those interested in supporting the garden can visit Mulberry Hill Garden’s website for information on donations and volunteering opportunities.
NWSP encourages landlords, tenants, and neighborhood residents in the Near West Side to join the next monthly meeting. Held on the second Thursday of each month from 1 to 2 p.m., the next monthly meeting will be on Oct. 17, 2024. For more information, visit the NWSP website.
