La Crosse meeting summaries, agendas, and minutes

La Crosse Council approves $498,600 WWTP remodel contract and $275,194.10 floodplain contract

The La Crosse Common Council on Oct. 6 approved a $498,600 contract with Wieser Brothers General Contractor for the WWTP Office Remodel and a $275,194.10 contract with Dirt Monkey for the Northside Floodplain Development project. Both votes were 13-0.

Council: contracts, appointments and a rezoning

In the same meeting, the council approved an agreement with the Department of the Army for the La Crosse Flood Risk Management Project (13-0) and approved re-allocating unused funds and re-purposing three fleet trucks for the Water Utility (13-0). It adopted Charter Ordinance 43 regarding appointment of various department heads (13-0) and confirmed mayoral appointments to the Arts and Culture Board, Building & Housing Appeals Board, Human Rights Commission, Municipal Transit Utility Board and Redevelopment Authority (13-0).

The council denied a resolution regarding Council Member expense accounts and reimbursement procedures on a 9-3 vote with one abstention. It also approved rezoning 1552 Kane Street from Single Family Residence District to Public and Semi-Public District for a community center; the summary did not include a vote tally for that item.

Budget: 2027 scenario #2

The Board of Estimates held a public hearing on the 2027 Operating Budget and on Oct. 13 approved scenario #2 (5-3) after denying scenario #1 (3-5). A day earlier, the board approved Budget Amendment #1 Revenue (6-2) and Budget Amendment #2 Expenses (6-2). A request to prepare a budget scenario opting out of the Expenditure Restraint Program failed 4-5, and a motion to hold a second meeting on Oct. 13 was approved 5-3.

Parks: Loggers agreement, harbor concepts

The Board of Park Commissioners on Oct. 15 approved a resolution authorizing a consolidated and restated use agreement with the La Crosse Loggers (7-1). On 8-0 votes, the board approved the concept of a campground on the west property at La Crosse Municipal Harbor and the concept of Mokki Sauna and Dip at the same location. It also approved an Eagle Scout project to construct and install six Leopold Benches along Marsh Trails, the Pettibone Boat Club 2027 fees, the Pettibone Resort Flood Evacuation Plan, and a Bicentennial Phase 3 Reroute concept presented by Outdoor Recreation Alliance (all 8-0). Two fundraisers were approved 8-0: River City Youth Hockey's "Pucks & Pints" at Green Island Park on Oct. 17, 2026, and a Polio Walk on the Marsh Trails on Oct. 24, 2026.

Public works

The Board of Public Works on Oct. 12 approved a payment list for Losey Blvd. right-of-way acquisitions (5-0) and quote proposals for 7th and Cass St. maintenance (5-0). It approved three permits 5-0: a Temporary Street Privilege Permit for Hawk & Sons INC to close Main Street, a Revocable Occupancy Permit for a water meter station at 1000 Boathouse Drive, and a Revocable Occupancy Permit for Trane Technologies INC at 2220 Ward Avenue. On Oct. 5 the board approved construction contract change orders and final payments, set the Spring City Auction for April 17, 2027, and approved a bid for Fire Station #3 overhead garage doors, each 5-0.

Cancelled, procedural and still pending

The Arts and Culture Board meeting scheduled for Oct. 7 was cancelled, so agenda item 26-1031, a discussion of the board's future regarding a name change, was not decided. Several Oct. 8 agendas were notices only: the Redevelopment Authority and the Economic and Community Development Commission were invited to a groundbreaking at Copper Rocks, 2415 State Rd., and the Common Council was invited to the Haven on Main Grand Opening Celebration at 915 Main St. No votes were listed on those agendas.

Minutes are not yet published for several meetings. The Library Board agenda listed a $40,000 fund balance approval for an Auditorium B AV update for consideration. The Housing Authority scheduled a public hearing on the PHA 2027 Annual Plan and review of the 2027-2031 Five-Year Capital Fund Program Plan. The Commercial/Multi-Family Design Review Committee was to review plans for Lot 11 in the River Point District and a commercial development at 1319-1325 St Andrew St. (Borton Construction Office). The Committee for Citizens with Disabilities agenda listed a discussion of snow removal. The Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee approved previous meeting minutes by voice vote and discussed a safety action plan, bike parking design standards and grant updates.

Coming up

• Oct. 19: Aviation Board considers the 2027 Airport Operating Budget and the 2027 Airport Schedule of Fees.
• Oct. 21: Police and Fire Commission reviews October 2026 police and fire personnel reports and a proposal to move Sergeant Andrew Tolvstad to regular status.
• Oct. 22: Municipal Transit Utility Board public hearing on proposed route changes (26-1069), 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
• Oct. 28: Human Rights Commission elects a chairperson and vice chairperson and reviews a revised discrimination complaint form.

La Crosse Council approves $498,600 WWTP remodel contract, $275,194.10 floodplain contract

The La Crosse Common Council on October 6 approved two construction contracts, adopted a charter ordinance changing how department heads are appointed, and voted down a resolution on council member expense accounts. All three actions came from recommendations forwarded by council committees in late September and early October.

Common Council, October 6

The council approved a $498,600 contract with Wieser Brothers General Contractor for the WWTP Office Remodel and a $275,194.10 contract with Dirt Monkey for the Northside Floodplain Development project. Both votes were 13-0.

In other 13-0 votes, the council adopted Charter Ordinance 43 regarding the appointment of various department heads; confirmed mayoral appointments to the Arts and Culture Board, Building & Housing Appeals Board, Human Rights Commission, Municipal Transit Utility Board, and Redevelopment Authority; approved re-allocating unused funds and re-purposing three fleet trucks for the Water Utility; and approved an agreement with the Department of the Army for the La Crosse Flood Risk Management Project.

The council denied a resolution regarding Council Member expense accounts and reimbursement procedures on a 9-3 vote with 1 abstention. The council also approved consent agenda items, license applications, and a rezoning of 1552 Kane Street from Single Family Residence District to Public and Semi-Public District to permit a community center. No vote tally was given for the rezoning in the summary.

Committee recommendations

The Judiciary & Administration Committee met September 29 with all seven members present. Every motion carried 7-0: recommending the charter ordinance on department head appointments; 2026-2027 license applications, subject to compliance; the 1552 Kane Street rezoning; a River City Youth Hockey Class 'B' Beer license expansion for an October 17, 2026 event at 2312 7th St S; and the Featherstone Rise final plat, subject to engineering and fire department requirements. The committee took no final decisions; each item went to the council.

The Finance & Personnel Committee on October 1 recommended, all by 6-0 votes: a 33rd St S non-compliant utility special assessment; a Sunset Lane sanitary sewer easement acquisition; a Water Utility capital equipment fund re-allocation; a $90,000 allocation for the 16th & State Streets scope change; a 2027 CPI-based sewer utility rate adjustment; and the Army agreement for the Flood Risk Management Project. Re-purposing three fleet trucks for the Water Utility carried 5-1, and a referral with no recommendation on Council Member expense procedures also carried 5-1.

Board of Public Works, October 5

The board approved its September 28 minutes, construction contract change orders, and construction contract final payments, each 5-0. It set the Spring City Auction for April 17, 2027 (5-0) and approved a bid for Fire Station #3 overhead garage doors (5-0).

No decisions

The Arts and Culture Board meeting scheduled for October 7 was cancelled, so no items were decided. Its only substantive agenda item, 26-1031, was a discussion of the board's future regarding a name change.

The October 1 Common Council meeting was marked "TEST MEETING ONLY," with placeholder items and no substantive decisions expected.

Several October 8 notices announced invitations rather than business: a groundbreaking at Copper Rocks, 2415 State Rd, and the Haven on Main Grand Opening Celebration at 915 Main St. The International Committee, Floodplain Advisory Committee, Committee for Citizens with Disabilities, Commercial/Multi-Family Design Review Committee, and the October 12 Board of Estimates and Board of Public Works meetings have agendas posted but no published minutes, so no decisions are established for those sessions.

Coming up

• **October 13 — Library Board:** considers a $40,000 fund balance approval for an Auditorium B AV update, a feasibility study review, and possible action on atrium design.
• **October 13 — Board of Estimates:** review and finalize the 2027 Operating Budget, with a public hearing. In-person at City Hall and via Zoom.
• **October 13 — Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee:** discussion and possible recommendation on bike parking design standards, plus a draft bike parking ordinance.
• **October 14 — Housing Authority:** public hearing on the PHA 2027 Annual Plan and review of the 2027-2031 Five-Year Capital Fund Program Plan.
• **October 22 — Municipal Transit Utility Board:** public hearing on proposed route changes (26-1069), 4:00-6:00 PM.

Council adopts 2027-2031 capital budget; city administrator office fails to pass

The La Crosse Common Council adopted the 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Budget on Aug. 13 by a 9-4 vote, after rejecting three amendments to shift specific projects. The council also awarded two construction contracts and referred a petition for a citizens' healthcare advisory committee to the November referendum. A separate charter ordinance creating an Office of City Administrator failed to get the required two-thirds vote and was not adopted.

Capital budget and contracts

The capital budget, which sets funding for major infrastructure and facility projects over the next five years, passed after the council rejected amendments to move the Library Parking Lot to 2031 (5-7), move Houska Park Bathrooms to 2027 (3-10), and move the MSC building out one year (5-8).

In the same meeting, the council awarded a $286,422.64 contract to Fowler & Hammer for the Washburn Lighting North project and a $38,194.51 contract to Fowler & Hammer for the 14/61 RRFB project, both by 13-0 votes. Bids for the Accessible Water Bubblers project were rejected (13-0).

Other decisions

The Board of Public Works approved several items at its Aug. 10 and Aug. 17 meetings. On Aug. 10, it approved a new tag trailer for the Street Department and a payment list for right-of-way acquisitions on Losey Blvd., both 5-0. On Aug. 17, it approved construction change orders, final payments, and four street privilege permits for utility work, plus another Losey Blvd. payment list. The board referred the Fire Station #3 project bid rather than approving it.

The Board of Zoning Appeals on Aug. 17 granted a variance allowing a lot smaller than the required 7,200 square feet for the Pastimes Tavern parcel at 2652 George Street, voting 5-0. It deferred the election of a vice chair.

The Joint Review Board on Aug. 18 adopted an amended project plan for Tax Incremental District No. 11 and acknowledged annual reports for active TIDs, both by voice vote.

The La Crosse Center Board on Aug. 18 approved liquor expenses and a resolution to change the scope of the La Crosse Center Basketball Floor, both by voice vote.

The Police and Fire Commission on Aug. 19 unanimously approved the August police and fire personnel reports and promoted Lieutenant Steven Pataska and Sergeant Colt Lang to regular status.

Several other meetings were held for discussion only, including the Climate Action Plan Steering Committee, the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee, the ADA MTU Advisory Committee, the Economic and Community Development Commission, and the Neighborhood Revitalization Commission. No decisions were recorded for these.

Coming up

• **Board of Public Works** (Aug. 24): Will review the Fire Station #3 bid, a right-of-way vacation at South and East Avenues, and two all-way stop requests.
• **Common Council** (Aug. 24): Special meeting to review the city's efforts to address homelessness; no votes scheduled.
• **Library Board** (Aug. 25): Closed-session discussion of a 2027 Reduction in Force and related compensation.
• **Board of Estimates** (Sept. 1 and Sept. 2): Two meetings to review and finalize the recommended 2027 operating budget.

Council adopts 2027-2031 capital budget; city administrator measure fails

The La Crosse Common Council adopted the 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Budget and awarded two construction contracts at its Aug. 13 meeting, but a proposed charter ordinance to create a city administrator position failed to receive the required two-thirds vote. The council also referred a petition for a citizens' healthcare action committee to the November referendum.

Capital Improvement Budget and contracts

The council adopted the five-year capital budget on a 9-4 vote after rejecting three amendments that would have moved specific projects. Amendments to move the Library Parking Lot to 2031 (5-7), move Houska Park Bathrooms to 2027 (3-10), and move the MSC building out one year (5-8) all failed.

Two construction contracts were awarded unanimously (13-0): $286,422.64 to Fowler & Hammer for the Washburn Lighting North project and $38,194.51 to Fowler & Hammer for the 14/61 RRFB project. Bids for the Accessible Water Bubblers project were rejected (13-0).

City administrator measure fails

The charter ordinance creating the Office of City Administrator, which would have removed duties from the mayor, failed to get the required two-thirds vote and was not adopted. The Judiciary & Administration Committee had recommended the ordinance earlier this month on a 3-2 vote with one abstention.

Other council action

The council referred a petition for a Citizens' Advisory Healthcare Action Committee to the November referendum (13-0).

Other decisions from boards and committees

The Board of Public Works approved operating and maintenance costs for the downtown parking system and Sanitary Sewer District #1 rates for 2025-2026, both on 5-0 votes. It also approved a street privilege permit for Doc's Hideout LLC at 200 Main St. and right-of-way acquisitions for Losey Blvd.

The City Plan Commission recommended a temporary moratorium on data centers (voice vote) and several zoning changes, including duplex conversions at 1705/1707 and 1233/1235 16th St. S., and a mixed-use rezoning at 2423/2425 16th St. S. and 1613/1617 Chase St. It also adopted certified survey maps for Fox Hollow Drive and 748 Losey Blvd. N.

The Finance & Personnel Committee recommended the 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Budget as amended (2-4) before the council adopted it, and also recommended resolutions on sewer lateral reconstruction, parking system costs, and TID 11 amendments. It approved a police Safe-Cam donation from La Crosse City Vision Foundation (5-1) and re-referred the Market Square Parking Ramp assignment for 30 days.

The Arts and Culture Board approved three grants totaling $7,750: $3,500 for the Northside Night Market, $3,500 for "Field Notes: FFA and County Fair Culture in the Driftless Region" (4-1), and $750 for "Adam Wright: Coulee Region Man."

Coming up

• **Board of Public Works** (Aug. 17) will review the Fire Station #3 project bid and several street privilege permits.
• **Board of Zoning Appeals** (Aug. 17) will hear a variance appeal on the minimum lot size at 2652 George Street.
• **Joint Review Board** (Aug. 18) will consider an amended project plan for Tax Incremental District No. 11.
• **Common Council** (Aug. 24) will hold a special meeting to review the city's efforts to address homelessness; no votes are scheduled.

La Crosse committee recommends city administrator role; capital budget advances

The most consequential action in the past two weeks came from the Judiciary & Administration Committee, which voted 3-2 with one abstention to recommend a charter ordinance creating the Office of the City Administrator and removing duties from the Mayor. The recommendation now goes to the Common Council. The Finance & Personnel Committee also moved the 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Budget forward, though its final recommendation passed 2-4, with the majority voting no.

City administrator role recommended

The Judiciary & Administration Committee on Aug. 5 recommended a charter ordinance that would establish a city administrator position and strip certain duties from the mayor. The vote was 3-2 with one abstention. The item will be considered by the Common Council. The committee also recommended a temporary moratorium on data centers (6-0), several zoning changes, and license renewals under Chapters 4, 6, and 10 (6-0).

Capital improvement budget advances

The Finance & Personnel Committee on Aug. 6 recommended the amended 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Budget to the Common Council, despite a 2-4 vote on the final recommendation. Amendments included moving Houska Park bathrooms to 2027 at a cost of $175,000 (unanimous) and removing the Library Parking Lot project (4-1, one abstention). The committee also recommended resolutions on sewer lateral reconstruction, downtown parking system costs, and TID 11 amendments, all by 6-0 votes. A Market Square Parking Ramp assignment was re-referred for 30 days.

Data center moratorium recommended

Both the City Plan Commission (Aug. 3) and the Judiciary & Administration Committee (Aug. 5) recommended a temporary moratorium on data centers. The Plan Commission acted by voice vote; the committee voted 6-0. The moratorium will be considered by the Common Council.

Other decisions

The Board of Public Works approved several items on July 27 and Aug. 3. On July 27, it approved a new ADA bubbler design and pursuit of a patent (5-0), Metronet conduit placement on Norplex Drive (5-0), and sanitary sewer lateral special assessments for the 900 block of East Avenue S (4-0). On Aug. 3, it approved downtown parking system operating and maintenance costs (5-0), Sanitary Sewer District #1 rates for July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 (5-0), and a street privilege permit for dumpsters at 200 Main St. (5-0).

The Arts and Culture Board on Aug. 4 approved three grants totaling $7,750: $3,500 for the Northside Night Market, $3,500 for Field Notes: FFA and County Fair Culture in the Driftless Region (4-1), and $750 for Adam Wright: Coulee Region Man.

Several other meetings were held but were agenda-only, with no decisions recorded: the International Committee, Common Council strategic plan presentations, Human Rights Commission, Building and Housing Appeals Board, Library Board, and Floodplain Advisory Committee.

Coming up

• **Aug. 10:** Board of Public Works will consider a street department tag trailer purchase and Losey Blvd. right-of-way acquisitions.
• **Aug. 11:** Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee will discuss bike parking standards and WisDOT pedestrian work downtown.
• **Aug. 14:** Board of Canvassers will tally provisional ballots from the Aug. 11 primary.
• **Aug. 24:** Common Council will hold a special meeting to review city efforts on homelessness (discussion only).
• **Aug. 20:** Common Council members are invited to a Skydio drone demonstration at the La Crosse Police Department.

La Crosse boards approve property purchase, TID funding for Public Market, ADA bubbler design

La Crosse's Economic and Community Development Commission approved the 2026 Amended Action Plan and an offer to purchase property at 2010 14th St S on July 22, among several decisions made across city boards over the past two weeks.

Economic and Community Development Commission — July 22

The commission took action on five items by voice vote:

• Approved the 2025 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER).
• Approved an Offer to Purchase for 2010 14th St S.
• Approved the 2026 Amended Action Plan, with Markussen voting against.
• Approved Annual Development Agreement Compliance Reports as amended, including payments for Charmont and forgoing a 3rd Party Audit.
• Referred The Salvation Army's 2026 Public Service Grant amendment request for 30 days.

Redevelopment Authority — July 23

The RDA adopted a resolution allocating Tax Increment District 11 funds to the RDA for Public Market predevelopment work. The board also approved a 5th Extension to the Planning Option Agreement with RyKey for Lot 9, approved a Commercial Letter of Intent on 65 Kraft St as amended, and approved the May 2026 meeting minutes. All items passed by voice vote.

Board of Public Works — July 27

The Board of Public Works approved a new ADA bubbler design as the preferred design and authorized the pursuit of a patent (5-0). Other decisions included:

• Approved Metronet conduit placement on Norplex Drive (5-0).
• Approved construction contract change orders (5-0).
• Approved the annual Fill the Boot for MDA campaign (4-0).
• Approved a DOT request regarding the HWY 53 project and City Hall parking (4-0).
• Approved sanitary sewer lateral special assessments for the 900 block of East Avenue S (4-0).
• Approved SJR Utilities fiber optic cable permits at 11th St S/Market St and 10th St S/Ferry St (4-0).
• Approved a Glenside Park LLC request to vacate public right-of-way (4-0).

Joint Review Board — July 21 (agenda only)

The Joint Review Board was scheduled to review resolutions for the creation of Tax Incremental Districts No. 22 and No. 24 and discuss a draft project plan for TID No. 11. Minutes have not yet been published.

Common Council — July 21 and July 28 (agenda only)

The council was scheduled to receive an informational presentation on the city's 2027 employee health insurance plan, with Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey presenting, on July 21. On July 28, the Mayor, council members, and city staff were scheduled to attend a presentation of the city's new strategic plan at the Southside Neighborhood Center. No decisions were listed for either meeting. Minutes have not yet been published.

Other meetings (agenda only)

• The Commercial/Multi-Family Design Review Committee met July 24 to review revised final plans and a storm management plan for a Chipotle location at 4354 Mormon Coulee Rd.
• The International Committee met July 27 to review funding requests for the Friedberg delegation, Global Initiatives Week, and the Fest Parade.
• The Human Rights Commission met July 29 to elect leadership and determine whether probable cause exists regarding a discrimination complaint filed by Melissa Fixmer against Patricia Nuttall.
• The Building and Housing Appeals Board met July 30 to consider a variance request for a renovation at 946 Division St (Item 26-0778).

Minutes for these meetings have not yet been published.

Coming up

• **Aug. 3 — Board of Public Works:** Will review downtown parking system costs, Sanitary Sewer District #1 rates for July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026, and construction contract final payments.
• **Aug. 3 — City Plan Commission:** Will consider a proposed temporary moratorium on data centers, rezoning requests along 16th St S and Chase St, and amendments to the 2024 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
• **Aug. 4 — Library Board:** Will elect a Secretary/Treasurer and discuss the 2027 budget forecast.
• **Aug. 4 — Arts and Culture Board:** Will vote on three Creative Development and Small Project Grant requests totaling $7,750.
• **Aug. 5 — Judiciary & Administration Committee:** Will discuss a proposed data center moratorium (Ordinance 26-0749), creation of an Office of the City Administrator (Ordinance 26-0741), and public hearings on zoning changes.
• **Aug. 6 — Finance & Personnel Committee:** Will vote on the 2027–2031 Capital Improvement Budget (Resolution 26-0499) and consider allocating TID 11 funds to the RDA for the Public Market project (Resolution 26-0699). A public hearing on downtown parking system costs is also scheduled.
• **Aug. 14 — Board of Canvassers:** Will process and tally provisional ballots from the August 11 Partisan Primary.

La Crosse Council Awards $1.49M Copeland Park Contract, Creates Two Tax Increment Districts

The La Crosse Common Council approved a $1,490,000 construction contract for Copeland Park and created two new Tax Increment Districts at its July 9 meeting, part of a busy two-week stretch of city board and committee activity.

Common Council: Contracts, Districts, and Appointments

The council voted 12-0 to award the Copeland Park contract to Fowler & Hammer, Inc. Two additional infrastructure contracts also passed unanimously: $513,127 to A-1 Excavating LLC for Prospect Street (Stoddard Street to George Street) and $326,782.55 to Gerke Excavating Inc. for East Avenue South (Jackson Street to Mississippi Street).

On tax increment financing, the council terminated Tax Increment District 14 (12-0), implemented an affordable housing extension for TID 14 (12-0), created TID 22 (12-0), and created TID 24 (11-1). An ordinance for mixed-use development at 1325 St. Andrew Street passed 12-0. The council also confirmed various municipal appointments on a 10-2 vote, adopted 2026 bills and engineering estimates (12-0), and received and filed the May Financial Report (12-0). June 11 meeting minutes were approved 11-0.

Board of Public Works: Street Closures and Utility Permits

The Board of Public Works met twice. On July 6, it approved partial street closures for pavement replacement on Main Street and 6th Street (5-0), a street privilege permit for a sign at 124 5th Ave South for Kellogg Investments LLC (5-0), and construction contract final payments and change orders (both 5-0).

On July 13, the board approved a payment list for right-of-way acquisitions on Losey Blvd (5-0), construction contract change orders (5-0), a street privilege permit for Trane Inc. to relocate a utility pole at 2504 Losey Boulevard South (5-0), and a permit for Metronet to install new fiber at 2550 Commerce Street (5-0). July 6 minutes were approved 5-0.

Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee: Master Plan Updated

On July 7, the committee adopted an amended resolution updating the city's 2024 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan on a voice vote of 7-1. Members voted 8-0 to add Badger Street in place of Pine Street on the plan's network map. A separate proposal to shift routes from Vine and 6th Streets to State and 5th Streets was rejected 7-1.

Other Boards and Commissions

The Arts and Culture Board approved its June meeting minutes on July 7 and heard updates on the budget and grant policy, taking no further action.

The Police and Fire Commission unanimously approved May 20 meeting minutes on July 15 and unanimously accepted and filed June and July 2026 fire and police personnel reports.

Several boards met on an agenda-only basis, with minutes not yet published: the Housing Authority (July 8, scheduled vote on Resolution #1039 to revise grievance procedure policy), the Committee for Citizens with Disabilities (July 9), the Climate Action Plan Steering Committee (July 13), the ADA MTU Advisory Committee (July 14), the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee (July 14), and the Library Board (July 14, which listed requests for $20,000 in materials and $6,000 for Director's Hospitality for 2026-2027).

Coming Up

• **July 21, 2:30 PM — Common Council** (Council Chambers, City Hall): Informational presentation on the 2027 employee health insurance plan, presented by Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey. No decisions listed.
• **July 21 — Joint Review Board**: Review of resolutions and project plans for creation of Tax Incremental Districts No. 22 and No. 24, plus discussion of a draft project plan for TID No. 11.
• **July 22 — Economic and Community Development Commission**: Public hearings on the 2025 CAPER and 2026 Amended Action Plan; consideration of an RFP for the former North Community Library at 1552 Kane Street, an offer to purchase 2010 14th St S, and resolutions regarding TID 14.
• **July 28 — Common Council**: Presentation of the city's new strategic plan, with sessions at the Southside Neighborhood Center and the Black River Beach Neighborhood Center.

La Crosse committees advance new tax districts, infrastructure contracts, and bike-ped plan updates

The Finance & Personnel Committee recommended creating two new Tax Incremental Districts, approving police collective bargaining agreements, and advancing water main and sewer improvements — all headed to the Common Council for final action. The committee's July 2 votes were among several consequential decisions made by La Crosse boards and commissions over the past two weeks.

Finance & Personnel Committee

The committee voted 5-0 to recommend creation of TID 22 and its project plan, and 4-1 to recommend creation of TID 24 and its project plan. Members also recommended terminating TID 14 and extending its affordable housing provisions (5-0).

Two police collective bargaining agreements — one for non-supervisory and one for supervisory associations — were each recommended for adoption on 5-0 votes. The committee recommended water main improvements for the 500 blocks of St. Andrew Street and the 800 blocks of St. Cloud Street (5-0 each), sanitary sewer improvements for the 800 block of St. Cloud Street (5-0), and a development agreement with Stizo, LLC for 1319 St. Andrew St (5-0). A parking assignment at Market Square Parking Ramp was referred to August 2026 meetings (5-0).

City Plan Commission

The commission approved the draft 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Budget by voice vote following a public hearing. It recommended rezoning 1325 St. Andrew Street for mixed-use development (voice vote, Yager recused), rezoning multiple Rose Street properties for commercial and residential redevelopment (voice vote), and a 20-year FAA off-airport land lease (voice vote).

Judiciary & Administration Committee

Building on the Plan Commission's work, this committee recommended the 1325 St. Andrew Street mixed-use rezoning to the Common Council on a 5-1 vote, subject to design review. It also recommended various 2026-2027 license applications (6-0), an airport concessionaire designation with a liquor permit (6-0), the Rose Street rezoning (6-0), and the 20-year FAA lease (6-0).

Board of Public Works

The board met twice. On June 29, it approved construction contract change orders and a storm sewer and highway maintenance easement acquisition from Badger Corrugating Company, each by 5-0 votes. On July 6, the board approved construction contract final payments (5-0), change orders (5-0), a street privilege permit for a sign at 124 5th Ave South for Kellogg Investments LLC (5-0), and partial street closures for pavement replacement on Main St and 6th St (5-0).

Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee

The committee adopted an amended resolution updating the city's 2024 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan (voice vote, 7-1). Members approved adding Badger Street in place of Pine Street on the plan map (8-0) but rejected a proposal to shift routes from Vine and 6th Streets to State and 5th Streets (7-1).

Budget Parameter Committee

The committee unanimously directed staff to prepare three versions of the 2027 operating budget: one meeting the Expenditure Restraint Program, one with a 3% increase, and one with no increase. It also approved the Board of Estimates meeting schedule for September and October, including an additional 6 p.m. public hearing.

Other Meetings

The Neighborhood Revitalization Commission reviewed progress on the 'Forward La Crosse' zoning code update, including built form studies and residential lot standards; minutes are not yet published. The Arts and Culture Board approved June minutes and heard updates on budget and grant policy without taking further action. The Housing Authority and Committee for Citizens with Disabilities met July 8 and 9 respectively; minutes are not yet published.

Common Council Agenda

The Common Council's July 9 meeting agenda includes a $1,490,000.00 contract to Fowler & Hammer, Inc. for Copeland Park Shelter Building & Site Improvements, a $513,127.00 contract to A-1 Excavating LLC for Prospect St (Stoddard St to George St), a $326,782.55 contract to Gerke Excavating Inc. for East Avenue S (Jackson St to Mississippi St), the 1325 St. Andrew Street mixed-use ordinance, and creation of TID 22 and TID 24 with termination of TID 14. Minutes are not yet published.

Coming Up

• **July 13 — Climate Action Plan Steering Committee:** Review of energy saving performance contract reports and a Sustainability Institute Climate Fellows request.
• **July 13 — Board of Public Works:** Payments for Losey Boulevard right-of-way acquisitions, construction change orders, and two street privilege permits.
• **July 14 — Library Board:** $20,000 request for physical and digital materials, $6,000 for Director's Hospitality, and CIPA computer use policy review.
• **July 14 — Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee:** Safe Routes to School update, Week Without Driving planning (October 1-8), and Ride with the Mayor progress report.

La Crosse boards approve capital budget, road closures, and TID 14 termination

The City Plan Commission approved the draft 2027–2031 Capital Improvement Budget after a public hearing on June 29, marking the most consequential financial decision among recent La Crosse government meetings. The commission also recommended rezoning two areas for redevelopment and a 20-year FAA airport land lease, all of which advanced to the Judiciary & Administration Committee the next day.

Capital budget and rezoning recommendations

The City Plan Commission approved the 2027–2031 Capital Improvement Budget by voice vote on June 29. The commission also recommended three items to the Judiciary & Administration Committee: an ordinance to rezone 1325 St. Andrew Street for mixed-use development (voice vote, with Yager recused), an ordinance to rezone multiple Rose Street properties for commercial and residential redevelopment (voice vote), and a resolution approving a 20-year FAA off-airport land lease (voice vote).

On June 30, the Judiciary & Administration Committee acted on those recommendations. The mixed-use rezoning at 1325 St. Andrew Street passed 5–1 with one abstention, subject to design review. The Rose Street rezoning passed 6–0, and the 20-year FAA lease resolution passed 6–0. The committee also recommended approval of various 2026–2027 license applications (6–0) and a resolution designating an airport concessionaire and authorizing a liquor permit (6–0). All items now go to the Common Council.

TID 14 termination and affordable housing

The Economic and Community Development Commission adopted resolutions on June 24 to terminate Tax Increment District 14 and extend affordable housing incentives within the district. The commission also approved the 2025 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report after opening and closing a public hearing, and authorized a Request for Proposals for the former North Community Library. Vicki Markussen recused herself from voting on the library item. All items passed by voice vote.

Board of Public Works: gas permits, road closures, easement

The Board of Public Works met twice in the past two weeks. On June 22, the board unanimously approved two Xcel Energy gas permits for new gas mains on La Crosse Street and East Avenue North (both 5–0), and approved partial street closures on Main and 6th Streets for pavement replacement work (5–0).

On June 29, the board approved a Bidder's Proof of Responsibility (5–0), construction contract change orders (5–0), and the acquisition of a storm sewer and highway maintenance easement from Badger Corrugating Company (5–0). The board also received a quarterly utilities business services update as a presentation only.

Budget scenarios ordered for 2027

The Budget Parameter Committee directed staff on June 30 to prepare three versions of the 2027 operating budget: one meeting the Expenditure Restraint Program (ERP), one with a 3% increase, and one with no increase. The committee also approved the Board of Estimates meeting schedule for September and October, including an additional 6 p.m. public hearing. All votes were unanimous.

Other meetings

The Redevelopment Authority received informational updates on June 25 — a monthly financial update, a project management update on the River Point District, and an update on Cowboy Jack's. No votes or actions were taken. A separate ribbon cutting for War Eagle Apartments at 55 River Bend Rd was listed as a ceremonial event.

The Common Council's June 25 meeting was canceled; the Mayor and Council were invited to attend the Wisconsin City/County Management Association Conference.

The Human Rights Commission (June 24) and Neighborhood Revitalization Commission (July 1) agendas listed leadership elections and a zoning code update discussion, respectively, but minutes have not yet been published.

Coming up

• **July 6 — Board of Public Works:** Street privilege permit for a sign at 124 5th Ave South, partial street closures on Main and 6th Streets, and construction contract payments and change orders.
• **July 7 — Arts and Culture Board:** Budget status update and review of city grant policy and procedures.
• **July 7 — Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee:** Resolution 26-0703 to amend the 2024 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, with draft map updates.
• **July 13 — Climate Action Plan Steering Committee:** Energy Saving Performance Contract reports (Phase 3 Year 3 and Phase 4 Year 1) and a Sustainability Institute Climate Fellows request.

La Crosse panel approves draft capital budget; mixed-use rezoning advances

The La Crosse City Plan Commission approved a draft five-year capital improvements budget June 29 following a public hearing, clearing a key step for infrastructure spending from 2027 through 2031. The voice vote was among several consequential land-use and financial decisions made by city boards and committees in the past two weeks.

Capital improvements

The City Plan Commission forwarded the 2027–2031 Capital Improvement Budget on a voice vote. No dollar amount was included in the draft. The Budget Parameter Committee took a related step June 30, unanimously directing staff to prepare three versions of the 2027 operating budget: one meeting the state’s Expenditure Restraint Program, one with a 3 percent increase, and one with no increase. The committee also set a Board of Estimates meeting schedule that adds a 6 p.m. public hearing in the fall.

Land use and development

The Judiciary & Administration Committee voted 5–1 on June 30 to recommend a rezoning at 1325 St. Andrew Street for a mixed-use development, pending a design review. One commissioner abstained. The item had drawn a recusal from Plan Commission member Vicki Markussen on June 29, when the commission recommended the same mixed-use rezoning and forwarded it to the committee.

The committee also voted 6–0 to recommend rezoning several Rose Street properties from commercial to a planned development for commercial and residential redevelopment, and 6–0 for a 20-year Federal Aviation Administration off-airport land lease.

Tax district changes

The Economic and Community Development Commission adopted resolutions terminating Tax Increment District 14 and extending affordable-housing incentives within that district. It also authorized a request for proposals for the former North Community Library. All votes were by voice, with Markussen recusing herself from the library item.

Infrastructure work

The Board of Public Works advanced several items in two late‑June meetings. On June 29, the board voted 5–0 to acquire a storm sewer and highway maintenance easement from Badger Corrugating Company and approved construction contract change orders. A week earlier, on June 22, it approved Xcel Energy permits for new gas mains on La Crosse Street and East Avenue North and partial street closures on Main and 6th Streets for pavement replacement — all 5–0.

Other notes

The Common Council canceled its June 25 meeting so members could attend a professional conference. The Redevelopment Authority held a procedural session June 25 with no votes and attended a ribbon‑cutting for War Eagle Apartments at 55 River Bend Road. The Finance & Personnel Committee met July 2 to consider creating two new tax districts, TID 22 and TID 24, terminating TID 14, police collective‑bargaining agreements for 2027–2029, and a development agreement for 1319 St. Andrew Street; the agenda was published but minutes were not available at press time.

Coming up

The Board of Public Works meets July 6 to consider a sign permit for Kellogg Investments LLC, road‑closure requests, and construction payments. On July 7, the Arts and Culture Board reviews the city grant policy and receives a budget update, while the Bicycle‑Pedestrian Advisory Committee examines a resolution to amend the 2024 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. The Climate Action Plan Steering Committee meets July 13 to review energy‑savings performance reports and a request from the Sustainability Institute Climate Fellows program.