The U.S. Secret Service said Milwaukee businesses and residents near the area hosting this summer's Republican National Convention were contacted by federal and local authorities Wednesday as part of a security plan.
A security plan, including a perimeter around the downtown event, is still being developed and information gathered Wednesday will be used to “mitigate the impact on the public while ensuring a safe and secure convention,” the statement said. It is said that
More than 40 volunteers from seven agencies were collecting contact information at each address, as well as information about delivery schedules, job descriptions and “other needs,” the statement said.
Federal authorities did not say which companies, or how many, they contacted.
This event, which attracts attention from all over the world, will be held from July 15th to 18th.
Fiserv Forum in downtown will be the main venue, with nearby Milwaukee Panther Arena and Baird Center also used.
The Secret Service, Milwaukee Police Department, Milwaukee Fire Department, Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office, Milwaukee County Emergency Management Agency, City of Milwaukee Health Department, and FBI participated.
The department says this first effort won't be the last.
“In the months leading up to the 2024 Republican National Convention, businesses and residents will continue to engage with the Secret Service and its partners about security plans and how they may impact businesses,” the agency said in a statement. There are multiple opportunities for discussion.”
Alison Dirr can be reached at adirr@jrn.com.
