Celia Benton
Milwaukee County
Celia Benton is an equity‑focused economic development leader with more than fifteen years of experience driving community investment and inclusive growth. As Milwaukee County’s Economic Development and Real Estate Director, Celia advances racial equity through strategic real estate projects, sustainable development and catalytic wealth‑building initiatives. Her leadership has delivered new affordable housing, achieved a 90% homeowner occupancy rate in tax‑deeded foreclosure sales, and strengthened division-wide processes to improve customer service and operational efficiency.
Previously, Celia revitalized the Brew City Match program at LISC Milwaukee, securing $6.3 million in new funding and supporting nearly 200 entrepreneurs, while also expanding workforce and capacity‑building programs for BIPOC communities. She earlier led neighborhood revitalization and small business development at VIA CDC, generating more than $1.7 million in commercial improvements, creating jobs, and launching award‑winning community initiatives.
Celia holds a Master’s in City and Regional Planning from Cornell University and a Bachelor’s in History from Lawrence University. A former Peace Corps Volunteer in El Salvador, she is certified as an Economic Development Finance Professional and is recognized for delivering equitable, community‑centered outcomes.