Public Meetings - Green Bay, Wisconsin

The Green Bay Common Council met on May 20, 2026, to consider a range of items including routine approvals, a liquor license non-renewal, a conditional use permit for a homeless shelter, and new fleet management software. The meeting featured extensive public testimony on the shelter proposal and a separate debate on the liquor license matter. Several amendments were adopted, and final votes were taken on all agenda items. Consent Calendar - Minutes of previous meeting approved unanimously. - Agenda approved as presented. - Report of the Redevelopment Authority approved. - Improvement and Services report approved. - Protection and Policy Committee report approved, with the exception of Item 9 (Whiskey Rose liquor license), which was handled separately. - Police Department operator licenses approved. - Plant Commission report approved, with the exception of Item 2 (Safe Haven Hope Center conditional use permit), handled separately. - Parks Committee report approved. - Personnel report approved. - Informational items (building report and municipal court report) received. - Resolution 1 adopted unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Whiskey Rose Liquor License (Item 9): Rick Hirbin, owner of Whiskey Rose (formerly Getaway), testified that he had reduced police calls from 52 to 13 and that an officer was targeting him. Attorney John D'Angelo stated they are working with the city prosecutor on citations and asked the council to reconsider the non-renewal. Council was advised this was only a notice of intent, not a hearing, and testimony would be heard at a later hearing if requested. - Safe Haven Hope Center (Item 2): Multiple speakers testified in support of the conditional use permit for a 20-bed supervised shelter at 315 South Jefferson Street. - Sarah Hanson (2426 Deprey St, Frankin) presented the model as evidence-based, serving high-need individuals with structured support and accountability, noting 80–125 people sleeping outside nightly in Brown County. - Binky Alstein (board member) emphasized housing first and dignity. - Stephanie Guzman (2711 Melcore Dr) shared personal history of homelessness and urged support. - Don Radford (408 S. Beard St) cited historical community ties and called the status quo untenable. - Tony Greeno (315 S. Jefferson St, resident) spoke of his sobriety journey and stability at the shelter. - Susan Wortela (currently at women's center) shared personal experience of homelessness. - Kathy Aretto (102 S. Ashland Ave, staff member) described operations, no police calls in two months, and harm reduction philosophy. - Owner of Tarlton Theater (405 W. Walnut St) shared personal experience of houselessness and pledged a fundraiser. - Amy Zellner (822 Pine St) spoke of a deceased parent due to homelessness. - Jesse Burnett (executive director, St. John's Ministries) clarified that St. John's did have capacity (max 128 men vs. permit for 140; peaked at 50 women out of 70) and that they shelter transgender individuals, though placement is based on self-identification? He noted policies for low-barrier shelter. - Tim Turlet (resident of Safe Haven) criticized St. John's policies as overly strict. - Father Paul Jamuth (413 St. John St) supported the shelter as an alternative for those who don't fit traditional shelters. - Christopher Pearson (315 S. Jefferson St, resident) credited the shelter with his sobriety. - Sarah Lobbert (900 Clement St, volunteer) described the welcoming atmosphere. - Sonny Lang (board secretary) noted the grassroots nature and that a short-term rental alliance has offered help. - Lizard King (611 Abrams St) spoke as a transgender man, highlighting gaps in shelter for transgender individuals and supporting Safe Haven's inclusive model. Discussion Items - Ordinance Amendment (I2): Alder Motion proposed amending an ordinance to revise setbacks and allow construction in specific development areas. The amendment was adopted unanimously, and the ordinance as amended also passed unanimously. - Whiskey Rose Liquor License: After public testimony, council discussed procedural aspects. Alder Eck asked for police reports but was advised by the attorney that this was only a notice of intent, not a hearing. The item was approved as presented, with Alder Morgan abstaining from the portion related to the Green Bay Blue Urban Baseball team? (Note: abstention noted but not clear on vote tally? The motion to approve was made and seconded, and the ayes had it.) - Safe Haven Hope Center Conditional Use Permit: Extensive discussion followed public testimony. - Alder Profit moved to add a condition requiring the applicant to appear before the council in approximately six months to provide a status report. The amendment was adopted (voice vote). - Alder Grant moved an amendment requiring the organization to work with the Green Bay Police Department for disposal of all confiscated drugs, changing 'may' to 'shall'. Police Chief Davis supported the change. The amendment was adopted. - Councillors debated the organization's initial operation without permits, but several members expressed support for the merit and need. The motion to approve as amended passed on a voice vote. - Fleet Management Software (Key Cafe, Finance Committee Item 5): Alder Hinkfitz moved to approve the purchase of Key Cafe scheduling software using ARPA funds, arguing it would improve vehicle sharing and reduce long-term costs. Alder Grant and Alder Eck preferred it be included in the budget, but the motion to approve carried on a voice vote. - Resolution 2: This resolution was amended to reflect the conditions added to the Safe Haven permit. The amended resolution was adopted with a board vote of 10 to 2. Key Outcomes - Ordinance I2: Adopted unanimously after amendment. - Whiskey Rose Liquor License: Notice of non-renewal approved as part of the Protection and Policy Committee report. (No formal hearing held; notice to be sent.) - Safe Haven Hope Center Conditional Use Permit: Approved with two additional conditions: a six-month status report to council, and mandatory cooperation with police for drug disposal. - Key Cafe Software: Approved using ARPA funds. - Resolution 1: Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2 (Safe Haven): Adopted as amended, 10-2.

The Green Bay Common Council met on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, with all 12 members present and voting. The meeting included approval of multiple agenda items, public testimony on a liquor license non-renewal and a conditional use permit for a homeless shelter, and debate on a vehicle fleet management software purchase. Consent Calendar - Minutes and agenda approved unanimously. - Reports from the Redevelopment Authority, Improvement in Services, Protection and Policy Committee (with the exception of item 9), Police Department operator licenses (with the exception of item 2), Finance Committee (with the exception of item 5), Parks Committee, and Personnel were approved without separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Liquor License Non-Renewal (Jam Rock/Whiskey Rose): Rick Hierman (owner) testified that he reduced police calls from 52 to 13 and alleged a specific officer is targeting his business. Attorney John D'Angelo stated they are negotiating citations with the city prosecutor. Council was advised this was only a notice of intent, not a hearing; the notice was approved. - Conditional Use Permit (Safe Haven Hope Center at 315 S Jefferson St): Numerous speakers supported the permit. Sarah Hansen (program director) cited point-in-time counts of 80–125 people sleeping outside in Brown County and described the Housing First, harm-reduction model serving up to 20 adults. Residents and board members testified to the program's positive impact. Kathy Aretto (executive director) noted that in nearly two months there had been zero police calls. Jesse Burnett (St. John's Ministries) clarified his shelter's policies and capacity. Others shared personal experiences of homelessness and recovery. No opposition speakers were registered, though some concerns were raised about operating without permits during cold weather. Discussion Items - Ordinance I2: Amendment to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) to allow housing construction by adjusting setback requirements. Approved as amended. - Conditional Use Permit (Safe Haven Hope Center): Council discussed staffing, programming, drug disposal policies, and accountability. Two amendments were added: (1) the applicant must report to the council in six months on operations and compliance; (2) all drug confiscation must be coordinated with the Green Bay Police Department for safe disposal. Council also addressed concerns about the organization's reaction to a warning letter issued for operating without permits during extreme cold. - Key Cafe Software (Finance Committee Item 5): Council debated whether to fund a vehicle scheduling software from ARPA funds or through the regular budget. Supporters argued the software would improve fleet efficiency and reduce long-term costs. A motion to approve passed on a voice vote (with nays noted). Key Outcomes - Ordinance I1 (second reading) adopted unanimously. - Ordinance I2 adopted as amended unanimously. - Protection and Policy Committee report approved, including a notice of intent to non-renew the liquor license for Jam Rock/Whiskey Rose. - Conditional use permit for Safe Haven Hope Center approved with two amendments (six-month reporting and drug disposal with police). The related resolution passed 10–2. - Finance Committee report approved with the Key Cafe software item approved. - Other reports approved as consented.

Date: May 5, 2026 Time: Approximately 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (based on agenda items) Location: Green Bay City Hall Presiding: Mayor Clerk: Present Attendance: 12 members in the room, 12 voting members The meeting covered a range of legislative actions including ordinance adoptions, a public hearing on a comprehensive plan amendment, a PUD amendment for the Brown County Library project, several community development items, and a lengthy debate on a resolution regarding the Neville Public Museum. The meeting concluded with the tabling of the museum resolution. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approved: Motion to approve minutes from April 21, 2026 meeting carried unanimously. - Agenda Approved: Motion to approve the agenda carried unanimously. - Appointments: New appointments and reappointments were approved unanimously. - Operator Licenses: Report of the Green Bay Police Department granting operator licenses was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA 26-02): No members of the public spoke on the request to rezone 1696 Janice Avenue from multifamily to low density residential. - Conditional Use Permit – Rooming House: Kevin Platt (resident of 117 N. Van Buren Street) expressed concerns about occupancy limit, on-site management, and privacy fencing. David Nelson (applicant, 1230 Spartan Road, New Franken) confirmed a maximum of 20 residents, 24-hour on-site management (house manager and co-manager), and a commitment to a privacy fence. - Neville Public Museum Resolution: Multiple speakers testified in support of the resolution affirming the museum's importance: - Supervisor Patrick Evans (Brown County, 1692 Nancy Avenue) urged collaboration and clarified that there are no proposals to move or privatize the museum, and that the county is actively seeking an executive director. - Mary Pappas (1947 Lakeside Place) supported the resolution, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the leadership vacuum and urging transparent community engagement. - David Corey (1917 Lakeside Place) spoke as director of the Green Bay Film Society, highlighting the museum's role as a cultural and economic anchor for downtown. - Dr. Lisa Rose Lampson (2475 Wooddale Avenue) spoke as a public history professional, warning that privatizing or repurposing the museum would cause irreversible loss of community history. - Dr. Rebecca Nisbet (118 S. Washington St.) opposed turning the museum into a "play space," arguing that the Neville's role as a full-fledged museum is irreplaceable. - Carl Knight (owner of the Charlton Theater, 711 S. Broadway) advocated for a public negotiation to transfer full stewardship back to the city or joint city-county control. Discussion Items - Third on the Square PUD (Ordinance 03-26): Dan Teters (Brown County) expressed concern that the PUD language ties surface parking to the Job Center (a state entity) and Grounded Cafe (a program of the ADRC). He requested that parking not be conditionally linked to those tenants, as their continuation is outside the county's control. An amendment by Alder Prophet to replace "Job Center" with "public or semi-public users" passed unanimously. An amendment by Alder Eck to replace "Grounded Cafe" with "cafe" failed on a voice vote. The PUD as amended passed 11-1. - Personnel Committee Item – Open Position Roster: A motion to refer this item back to staff failed on a voice vote. The item then passed 9-3 after a roll call vote. - Neville Public Museum Resolution: A motion to "lay on the table" (postpone indefinitely without a return date) made by Alder Prophet was seconded and approved by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA 26-02): No action taken; no public testimony. - Zoning Ordinance 03-26 (Third on the Square PUD): Passed 11-1 as amended. - Conditional Use Permit (828 Cherry Street – Rooming House): Approved on voice vote. - Personnel Committee Item: Passed 9-3 (roll call) after referral motion failed. - Neville Public Museum Resolution: Tabled (postponed indefinitely). - Ward 48 Creation: Resolution to create Ward 48 approved unanimously via roll call on resolutions 1–13. - Fire Truck Antitrust Litigation: Committee of the Whole report approving involvement approved unanimously. - Ordinances First Reading: Ordinary ordinance items 1 and 2 were advanced to second reading.

The Green Bay Common Council held a regular meeting on May 5, 2026, covering a range of topics including city-county collaboration, land use amendments, a conditional use permit for a sober living rooming house, and a resolution regarding the Neville Public Museum. The meeting featured public testimony, committee reports, and several votes on ordinances and resolutions. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from April 21, 2026, meeting. - Approval of the agenda. - Approval of new appointments and reappointments. - Reports from the Redevelopment Authority, Protection and Policy Committee, Finance Committee, Park Committee, Traffic Bicycle and Pedestrian Commission, and Sustainability Commission were approved. - Operator licenses from the Green Bay Police Department were approved. - Committee of the Whole report on fire truck antitrust litigation was approved. - Resolutions 1-13 were adopted unanimously, including creation of Ward 48 due to a land swap. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing on CPA 26-02: No members of the public spoke on the amendment to the comprehensive plan for 1696 Janice Avenue. - Public Testimony on Conditional Use Permit for 828 Cherry Street: Kevin Platt, a neighbor at 117 North Van Buren Street, expressed concerns about the number of residents (20 men), 24-hour management, and privacy fencing. David Nelson, the applicant, stated that the maximum would be 20 residents, a house manager would be present, and privacy fencing would be installed. Monty (via Zoom) clarified that the facility is a sober living home, not a treatment program, and that managers would be in recovery. Alder Grant expressed hesitation due to lack of detailed plans for management and proximity to a women's shelter, but Alder Prophet noted that neighbor concerns were addressed at a community meeting. - Public Testimony on Neville Museum Resolution: Multiple speakers voiced support for the resolution and the museum's public mission: - Supervisor Patrick Evans (1692 Nancy Avenue) emphasized collaboration, stated the museum is not moving or being privatized, and that a new executive director will be hired. - Mary Papas (1947 Lakeside Place) urged a transparent community engagement process. - David Corey (1917 Lakeside Place) highlighted the museum's cultural and economic impact, citing the Green Bay Film Society's screenings. - Lisa Rose Lambson (2575 Wodell Avenue, UW-Green Bay teaching professor) argued that a public history museum is not interchangeable with a children's museum and warned of irreversible loss of collections. - Dr. Rebecca Netsvet (118 South Washington Street) praised the museum's complex exhibits and opposed privatization or merging with a children's museum. - Charl Knight, owner of the Tarleton Theater, proposed public stewardship and opposed privatization. Discussion Items - Zoning Ordinance 03-26 (PUD for Brown County Library/Third on the Square Project): Dan Teeters of Brown County expressed concern about language tying parking to the Job Center and Grounded Cafe, as the Job Center is a state entity and the cafe is ADRC-funded. The council approved an amendment (by Alder Prophet) to replace "Job Center" with "public or semi-public users" (11-1). A subsequent amendment to make the cafe generic (by Alder Eck) failed. The PUD was adopted as amended 11-1. - Plan Commission Item 1 (PUD amendments): Amendments to street patterns and density table cleanup were approved; no change in density or units. - Personnel Committee Item 3: A motion to refer back to staff (to reconsider a process change for open positions) failed. The council then approved the change (9-3) to place an open positions roster on the informational agenda, aimed at streamlining hiring. - Neville Museum Resolution: The council debated a resolution affirming support for the museum. A motion to lay the item on the table (to allow further county collaboration) was made and passed, with several council members noting the importance of not interfering with county operations while supporting the museum. Key Outcomes - Minutes and Agenda: Approved. - Appointments: Approved. - Public Hearing (CPA 26-02): Closed with no speakers. - Ordinances 1, 2, 4 (Second Reading): Adopted unanimously. - Zoning Ordinance 03-26 (PUD): Adopted as amended 11-1. - Redevelopment Authority Report: Approved. - Improvement and Services Committee Item 7 (Barn Contract): Approved with amendment making acceptance contingent on receipt of non-state grant funding. - Protection and Policy Committee Report: Approved with one abstention on item 9. - Plan Commission Item 1 (PUD Amendments): Approved. - Conditional Use Permit (828 Cherry Street): Approved. - Personnel Committee Item 3: Approved 9-3 (motion to refer back to staff failed). - Neville Museum Resolution: Laid on the table (motion passed). - Resolutions 1-13: Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 14: Tabled. - Ordinances First Reading: Advanced to second reading. - Meeting Adjourned.

The Green Bay Common Council met on March 17, 2026, at 7:00 PM (approx.) with 11 members present. The meeting included recognition of outgoing alders, approval of ordinances, a public hearing on a dangerous dog appeal, and updates to personnel policies. Key outcomes included adoption of a Downtown Alcohol Restricted Area (DORA) with modified hours and a one-drink limit, denial of a dangerous dog appeal, and approval of a recruitment policy allowing moving expense reimbursement for candidates living more than 100 miles from Green Bay. Consent Calendar - Minutes approved with a correction to ordinance section number (Z3: 44-1580, not 55-1580). - Agenda approved. - Ordinances (second reading) except item 4 adopted 11-0. - Improvement in Services Committee report approved. - Protection and Policy Committee report approved except item 4. - Police Department operator licenses report approved. - Finance Committee report approved. - Park Committee report approved with an amendment to add CTLA abbreviation. - Personnel Committee item 2 (benefits admin savings) approved, with Alder Hinkfus noting at least $500,000 in savings. - Resolutions adopted 11-0. - Ordinance advanced as amended. Public Comments & Testimony - Carl Crossy (1283 Crooks, Green Bay) appealed a dangerous dog declaration. He stated his dog jumped a fence and fought with another dog, but claimed the other owner threatened him with a knife. He argued Officer Meeves did not give him time to respond to calls and that the dog is not a threat to people. Discussion Items - DORA Ordinance (Item 4): Alder Profit offered two amendments based on collaboration with business owners, neighbors, and the downtown BID: (1) change hours to Thursday–Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (instead of the original proposal), and (2) limit patrons to one alcoholic beverage per person at a time. Both amendments were adopted unanimously. - Dangerous Dog Appeal: Alder Margaret summarized Officer Mavis’s testimony: the dog was involved in two prior incidents (May 2025: attacked a Great Dane, almost tearing off an ear, and bit the owner, resulting in $2,842 in expenses; February 2026: attacked a lab mix, causing puncture wounds to the dog and handler, $900 in expenses). The Protection and Policy Committee had voted 4-0 and 3-1 to deny the appeal. Council denied the appeal. - Recruitment Policy (Personnel Item 1): Alder Grant moved to amend the relocation reimbursement policy to require candidates live more than 100 miles from Green Bay to qualify for moving expense reimbursement (up to $10,000 per current policy, with additional amounts needing committee approval). Director Olofson noted a national search for an assistant DPW director has been open nine months and that the policy change would help attract candidates. After discussion, the amendment was adopted, and the policy was approved as amended. Alder Hinkfus expressed concern about the lack of detailed reimbursement caps, but Director Olofson clarified it is a reimbursement up to $10,000 with receipts, and the policy applies to director-level and hard-to-fill positions. Key Outcomes - DORA Ordinance adopted as amended: Hours set to Thursday–Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with a one-drink-per-person limit. - Dangerous dog appeal denied: The council upheld the animal control officer’s declaration after hearing testimony of two prior incidents with significant injuries and costs. - Recruitment policy amended and approved: Moving expense reimbursement now limited to candidates living more than 100 miles from Green Bay, up to $10,000 reimbursement, with additional amounts requiring personnel committee approval. - Recognition of outgoing alders: Mayor and council thanked Alder Galvin (served since 2016) and Alder Johnson (absent, served since 2018) for their service. - Mayor’s report: Recognized first responders, DPW, and Metro Fire for response to the second-worst blizzard in Green Bay history and a major fire. - Announcements: Alder Glee announced the Green Bay & Northeast Wisconsin Music Hall of Fame will open at the former Helen Keller School (1806 Bond St) with a tentative grand opening May 15, and the Grooves on the Green concert series will expand to eight dates this summer.

The Green Bay Common Council met on March 5, 2026, to address a range of items including road improvements, short-term rental regulations, a designated outdoor refreshment area, and several committee reports. The meeting featured extensive discussion on the Shawnee Avenue mill and pave project, amendments to short-term rental ordinances, and public comment on the proposed DORA. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes and agenda, reappointments, and several routine committee reports were approved unanimously by voice vote. - Reports from the Redevelopment Authority, Green Bay Police Department (operator licenses), Plan Commission (items 1 and 3 handled separately), Finance, Park, Personnel, Public Arts, Traffic/Bicycle/Pedestrian (item 4 held), and Sustainability commissions were approved with exceptions noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Kristen Johnson (115 East Walnut Street) spoke against the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) ordinance, citing concerns about noise, late hours (10 p.m.), safety of children, and traffic safety at Walnut and Washington. She requested a neighborhood meeting to educate residents about the program. Alder Prophet committed to holding such a meeting. Discussion Items - Shawnee Avenue Mill and Pave (Informational): Mayor reported the project will proceed in early summer 2026. Director Justin estimated cost at $400,000–$500,000. Alder Johnson questioned the lifespan (10–20 years vs. 5 years before state reconstruction in 2031) and expressed disappointment that the city is spending wheel tax funds on a state road. Alder Galvin noted the state provides roughly $650,000 annually for state road maintenance, but the city still bears costs. No vote was taken. - Short-Term Rental Ordinance (Item 3, Plan Commission): Alder Hinkfuss moved to amend the application to include occupancy (marketed number) and whether the property is owner-occupied. After debate, the amendment was amended to specify "owner's primary residence" instead of "owner-occupied." Another amendment to change "maximum occupancy" to "maximum sleeping occupancy" was withdrawn. The final approved amendment requires the application to include marketed occupancy and whether the property is the owner's primary residence. The ordinance was approved as amended. - Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) (Item 5, Protection & Policy): After public comment, the council approved the draft ordinance to allow outdoor drinking in a designated area. Alder Prophet committed to neighborhood meetings and informational materials. The ordinance will have a second reading at the next meeting. - Appeal of Dangerous Dog Designation (Item 1, Protection & Policy): Alder Stevens moved to refer the item back to committee after additional records were provided. The petitioner agreed, and the item was referred back for further review at the next PNP meeting. Key Outcomes - Ordinances (Second Reading): Adopted 10-2 (roll call) after suspension of rules. - Shawnee Avenue: No action taken; informational only. - Short-Term Rental Ordinance: Approved as amended (occupancy and owner's primary residence on application). - DORA Ordinance: Approved (first reading), with second reading pending. - Appeal Referral: Referred back to Protection & Policy Committee. - Item 4 (Traffic): Held to next Traffic/Bicycle/Pedestrian Commission meeting after Alder Johnson's comments on Washington Street parking restrictions. - Finance Committee Item Q5 (Innovation Fund): Reconsidered and approved with amendment clarifying that all funds over $50,000 require council approval. - Committee of the Whole: Approved wellhead protection ordinance, special assessments for three resurfacing projects, and final authority for Irish Temper expansion. - Resolutions: Adopted unanimously. - Ordinances First Reading: Advanced to second reading, with item 3 (short-term rentals) advanced as amended.

The Green Bay Common Council met on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, to address a range of items including a major road improvement on Shawnee Avenue, adoption of a short-term rental ordinance, and creation of a designated outdoor refreshment area (DORA) for downtown. The meeting featured public testimony, committee reports, and multiple votes on ordinances and resolutions. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes and agenda (unanimous). - Reappointments to various boards and commissions (approved). - Report of the Redevelopment Authority (approved). - Report of the Improvement and Services Committee (approved, except item 16 handled separately). - Report of the Protection and Policy Committee (approved, except items 1 and 5 handled separately). - Report of the Green Bay Police Department granting operator licenses (approved). - Report of the Finance Committee (approved). - Report of the Park Committee (approved). - Report of the Personnel Committee (approved). - Report of the Public Arts Commission (approved). - Report of the Traffic, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Commission (approved, except item 4 held). - Report of the Sustainability Commission (informational). Public Comments & Testimony - Kristen Johnson (115 East Walnut Street) spoke against the designated outdoor refreshment area (DORA) ordinance, citing concerns about noise outside her bedroom window, safety for pedestrians at the Walnut and Washington intersection (she was hit by a car in 2024), potential litter from children, and the 10:00 p.m. time limit. She requested a neighborhood meeting before implementation. Alder Prophet agreed to hold such a meeting. Discussion Items - Mayor’s Report – Shawnee Avenue Mill and Pave: Mayor highlighted the upcoming mill and pave project on Shawnee Avenue, a state road, planned for early summer 2026. He thanked public works staff and noted community excitement. He also mentioned progress on short-term rental regulations. - Shawnee Avenue Cost and Lifespan: Alder Johnson questioned Director Justin about costs ($400,000–$500,000 estimated) and expected lifespan (10–20 years, but only 5 years until state reconstruction in 2031). Johnson expressed disappointment that the city must spend half a million dollars of wheel tax revenue on a state road for only 5 years of use, and called for state assistance. Alder Galvin noted the state provides approximately $650,000 annually for state road maintenance, which is insufficient. - Protection and Policy Item 1 – Appeal of Dangerous Dog Determination: Alder Stevens moved to refer the item back to committee after additional records were provided to alders just before the meeting. City Attorney Couch recommended the referral to allow review by Officer Mavis and the petitioner. The petitioner agreed. The council voted to refer back. - Protection and Policy Item 5 – Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA): Alder Prophet moved to approve the draft ordinance. Kristen Johnson testified (see Public Comments). Alder Prophet committed to neighborhood meetings and outreach. The item was approved and will have a second reading at the next meeting. - Plan Commission Item 1 – Conditional Use Permit Amendment: Alder Prophet offered an amendment to strike recommendation 4 (no building addition past front facade) after staff and applicant reached a compromise on design. The amendment was adopted, and the item was approved as amended. Alder Johnson thanked the applicant for expanding services to those in need. - Plan Commission Item 3 – Short-Term Rental Ordinance: Alder Hinkfus moved to amend the application to include occupancy (maximum number marketed) and a designation of owner-occupied or non-owner-occupied. After debate, the owner-occupied language was amended to “owner’s primary residence” via an amendment by Alder Hutchison. The occupancy language was kept as “occupancy” (marketed number). The ordinance was approved as amended. - Traffic Item 4 – Parking on Washington Street: Alder Johnson moved to hold the item (no parking from midnight to 3 a.m.) to allow police department review. He noted that meters are covered from 6 p.m., reducing downtown parking availability during peak hours, and suggested future consideration of a pickup/drop-off zone and later meter covering times. The item was held to the next Traffic, Bicycle, and Pedestrian Commission meeting. - Finance Committee Item Q5 – Innovation Fund Approval: Alder Eck moved to reconsider the item to correct the record: the wording was changed from “locations from the innovation fund above $50,000 require council approval” to “all funds must require council approval.” The council approved the corrected language. Key Outcomes - Minutes and Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Reappointments: Approved unanimously. - Public Hearing – Comprehensive Plan Amendment (Lime Kiln Road): No public speakers; ordinance adopted 10–2. - Improvement and Services Item 16 (Shawnee Avenue): Informational only; no motion needed. - Protection and Policy Item 1: Referred back to committee (unanimous). - Protection and Policy Item 5 (DORA): Approved (voice vote, unanimous). - Plan Commission Item 1: Approved as amended (unanimous). - Plan Commission Item 3 (Short-Term Rentals): Approved as amended (unanimous). - Traffic Item 4: Held to next committee meeting (unanimous). - Finance Item Q5: Corrected and approved (unanimous). - Committee of the Whole – Wellhead Protection Ordinance: Approved (voice vote). - Committee of the Whole – Special Assessments (Streets): Approved (unanimous; Alder Johnson abstained). - Resolutions: Approved unanimously (roll call). - Ordinances First Reading: Advanced to second reading except item 3 (short-term rentals), which was amended and advanced (all voice votes). - Adjournment: Motion carried unanimously.

The Green Bay City Council convened on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, with 12 members present (physically and virtually). The meeting opened with an invocation by Alder Galvin, who offered a final invocation before departing, quoting John F. Kennedy and Winston Churchill regarding political courage and the future. The Council proceeded to approve the minutes (as amended), the agenda, and a series of reports and resolutions, including the approval of a motion to withdraw a lawsuit against the city. Consent Calendar - Approval of the January 2026 minutes, amended to record Alder Prophet and Alder Presley voting "no" on the final two votes of the previous meeting; the amended motion passed 12-0. - Approval of the meeting agenda, passed unanimously. - Approval of appointments, passed unanimously. - Approval of miscellaneous reports from the Redevelopment Authority, Improvement in Services, Green Bay Police Department, Plank Commission, Finance Committee, Personnel Committee, Public Arts Commission, Traffic/Bicycle/Pedestrian Commission, and Sustainability Commission, all passed unanimously. - Approval of the December Municipal Court and Building reports as informational items. - Adoption of resolutions, passed 12-0 after suspension of rules. Public Comments & Testimony - Brian Sanchez (1181 Hanson Road, Green Bay, WI): Appeared to appeal the denial of his operator/bartending license. Sanchez stated support for his ability to continue employment and training at Packer Stadium and Home Field Pub & Social. He indicated that the denial of his license was based on his need to move up in his career and that he could not do so without the license. He explained that a pending deferred prosecution agreement (hearing scheduled for March 2027) and a 2022 misdemeanor for marijuana and prescription drug possession were the reasons for the initial denial. He expressed that the denial occurred because he did not list the traffic violations or the pending/deferred case on his application due to a "misunderstanding" of the forms. Discussion Items - Denial of Operator License (Brian Sanchez): The Chief of Police clarified the denial was based on the applicant failing to list prior convictions and a pending case with a deferred prosecution agreement, despite the criminal history itself (including a 2022 misdemeanor and traffic violations) not necessarily being disqualifying. The Chief stated that the standard recommendation is denial for false statements on applications. Alder Galvin asked for clarification on whether the denial was solely due to the omission of records; the Chief confirmed that had the records been disclosed, approval would have likely followed as the offenses were not directly related to alcohol service. Alder Stevens inquired about the timeline for the deferred prosecution, noting an 18-month period from the September 19th agreement. - Martin Luther King Day Celebrations: The Mayor thanked community groups (NWTC, Divine Temple, Conservation Corps, We All Rise) for their events and expressed strong support for MLK's legacy. - Myron Lawsuit: The Mayor announced that the city had withdrawn a "meritless" suit from Myron, stating that a special meeting could be held as early as the following Thursday to award a bid for a significant downtown Green Bay project. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approval: Approved as amended with a vote of 12-0 (with an amendment to reflect Alders Prophet and Presley's "no" votes). - Miscellaneous Ordinance (07-25): Adopted to amend the "Go Big Green Bay 2050" comprehensive plan for 1109 South Taylor Street (Low Density Residential to Commercial CPA); no public comment was received. - Operator License Appeal (Brian Sanchez): The Council overturned the staff recommendation for denial. A motion to approve the license was made by Alder Galvin and seconded by Alder Prophet. The motion passed, granting the operator license to Brian Sanchez. - Second Reading Ordinances: Three ordinances were adopted with a roll call vote of 12-0. - First Reading Ordinances: Three ordinances were advanced to second reading/final reading. - Budget/Reporting: All board and commission reports (Redevelopment, Police, Plank, Finance, Personnel, Arts, Traffic, Sustainability) were approved unanimously.

On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, the Green Bay Common Council convened with 12 members present. The meeting opened with a Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation by Alder Galvin, who shared two quotes from John F. Kennedy about political courage and the urgency of the times. The council approved the minutes as amended (recording Alder Stevens and Alder Presley as “no” on previous votes), approved the agenda, and moved through routine reports and multiple consent-style agenda items. Public Comments & Testimony - Operator License Appeal – Brian Sanchez: Mr. Sanchez addressed the council to request his bartending (operator) license, stating he needed it to continue working at Lambeau Field and the Home Field Pub & Social, to train others, and to advance in his job. He explained his previous denial stemmed from not listing prior convictions (a 2022 misdemeanor for possession of marijuana and a prescription drug offense, and a pending deferred prosecution agreement for a felony case) on his application, attributing the omission to misunderstanding. Discussion Items - Mayor’s Report: The mayor thanked community groups for Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations and announced that Myron had withdrawn its lawsuit against the city, calling it “meritless.” He indicated a special meeting might be called as early as Thursday, January 22, at 5 p.m. to approve the related contract. - Protection & Policy – Item 1 (Operator License Appeal): Police Chief provided the rationale for the staff recommendation to deny Brian Sanchez’s operator license. He noted Sanchez had multiple minor traffic violations, a misdemeanor conviction, and a pending deferred prosecution case (with a hearing in March 2027). Chief stated that Sanchez answered “N/A” on the application for felony/misdemeanor convictions and pending cases, which staff considered a false statement. Alder Galvin questioned whether the denial was solely due to the omission and whether the license would have been approved otherwise. Chief indicated that the false statement alone was the basis for denial. Alder Galvin then moved to approve the license. - Other Items: Council approved multiple committee reports (Redevelopment Authority, Improvement in Services, Police Department Operator Licenses, Plan Commission, Finance, Personnel, Public Arts Commission, Traffic/Bicycle/Pedestrian Commission, Sustainability Commission) without separate discussion. Informational items (December municipal court report and building report) were noted. Key Outcomes - Operator License (Brian Sanchez): The council voted to approve the license, overriding the staff recommendation for denial. The motion by Alder Galvin, seconded by Alder Prophet, passed on a voice vote. - Appointments: Approved by consensus. - Public Hearing – Ordinance 07-25 (Comprehensive Plan Amendment): No public testimony; the item moved forward. - Ordinances – Second Reading: Adopted 12-0 in a single roll-call vote. - Protection & Policy Items 2–4: Approved en bloc. - Resolutions and Ordinances – First Reading: Approved en bloc and advanced to final reading. - Special Meeting Announcement: A special meeting was anticipated for Thursday, January 22, at 5 p.m. to act on the contract related to the Myron lawsuit withdrawal.