Public Meetings - La Crosse, Wisconsin

The La Crosse Arts and Culture Board convened on November 3, 2026, at La Crosse City Hall. (Note: The agenda and transcript reflect an 8:30 AM start time, while the provided meeting metadata specifies a 2:30 PM UTC timestamp.) The board approved previous minutes, received an update on the proposed Arts Week 2027, conducted member introductions, and held a substantial discussion on the board's future direction, funding, and the need for a strategic planning session. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes of the previous meeting. The vote was unanimous, with member Joshua Walden not yet present for roll call. Public Comments & Testimony - No separate public comment period was held. The meeting consisted of board discussion and a presentation from arts organizations. Discussion Items - Update on Arts Week 2027 (Item 26-1121): Representatives from four major arts organizations—Alison Chris (Pump House Regional Arts Center), Eric Vos (La Crosse Community Theater), Teddy Eck (Cooley Arts), and Eva Marie (La Crosse Symphony Orchestra)—presented plans for an Arts Week in 2027. The week is planned to span from the existing Artspire festival (14th year) to Juneteenth. The group described the initiative as a way to coordinate existing events, share marketing, and avoid scheduling conflicts. They expressed a desire for the Arts Board to eventually act as an umbrella partner or subcommittee, but stated no immediate funding was being requested. Board members discussed potential funding conflicts (e.g., organizations being disqualified from other grants by participating), and staff clarified open meetings implications. Member Mary Cate Westling volunteered to serve as the board's liaison to the planning committee. Director Jay Odegaard offered logistical and permitting support and suggested the city could help administer grants to avoid disqualifying organizations from other funding sources. - Introductions (Item 26-1122): Board members, including newer members, and city staff introduced themselves. Members highlighted their professional backgrounds in arts administration, theater, production, digital marketing, county government, and city government. - Discussion on Future of Board Initiatives and Strategic Planning (Item 26-1120): - Context: Arts Coordinator Jackie Merku informed the board that a scheduled strategic planning session with the Mayor was canceled. She outlined a projected budget of $25,000 for 2027, consisting of a $10,000 carryover and a $15,000 operating line item. She noted the current grant program was closed for the year with two small grants (totaling $1,500) unspent. - Staffing and Role: Merku and Director Jay Odegaard expressed doubt that the grant program could continue without dedicated staff support, noting the Arts Coordinator position was eliminated due to $750,000 in department budget cuts over two years. Odegaard characterized the board’s historical role as an advisory and governing body rather than an implementation body. - Board Positions: - Paige Manges strongly advocated for maintaining the grant program or a hybrid model to ensure community-driven art selection and avoid exclusionary curation. She requested dedicated time for strategic planning. - Dillon McArdle provided historical context, stating the grant program has been the board's most successful mechanism for getting art into the community. He cautioned against returning to an ad-hoc project model without fairness safeguards. - Kelly Leibold supported the grant program and suggested a formal facilitated strategic planning session, similar to what the county has done. She also raised the idea of a Poet Laureate program. - Alex Fowler raised a specific concern about organizations potentially losing eligibility for other grants (e.g., from Explore La Crosse) by participating in collective events. - Next Steps: The board agreed to pursue a strategic planning session in December 2026, ideally with the Mayor, to address the board's future direction, funding model (grant, hybrid, or curated), and the implications of the recent name change to include "culture." Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on Arts Week 2027 or future funding models. - The board verbally committed to scheduling a strategic planning session for December 2026. - Mary Cate Westling was identified as the board's representative for the Arts Week 2027 planning committee. - The city committed to exploring logistical and grant administration support for Arts Week. - The Arts Week planning group will proceed with a survey of local arts organizations and continue logo and marketing development. - The board acknowledged the 2026 grant cycle is closed and will use the December strategic session to determine the 2027 approach.

The La Crosse Board of Public Works met on Monday, November 2, 2026, at 10:02 a.m. (the agenda listed the start time as 10:00 a.m.), adjourning at 10:33 a.m. All five members were present: Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey, Tamra Dickinson, Erin Goggin, Matt Gallager, and Andrea Trane. The Board agreed to take the agenda out of order, moving the Street Department update to the end of the meeting. Unanimous approval was given to all items requiring a vote. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (October 26, 2026): Approved unanimously. - Bidder's Proof of Responsibility (25-1203): No items were presented for this agenda item. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Flatmyers (presenter on change orders): Explained that low bids on a construction contract allowed the reinstatement of alternates originally desired by the North Side, including sidewalks, lighting, and stonework. Commissioner Goggin expressed appreciation for his attention to the project. - Xcel Energy Representative (26-1143, Hintgen Neighborhood): Provided details on replacing aging gas mains. Council President Dickinson questioned disruption levels and timelines. The representative stated the project would start November 16, take approximately four weeks, and pedestrian access would be maintained on the opposite side of the street where work is occurring. - Alex Lewick and Gareth Brickson (Xcel Energy, 26-1144, Harvey & Hamilton Streets): Responded to questions from Council President Dickinson regarding construction disruptions, timeline (estimated three weeks), and contractor identification (PSC, white trucks). Jose (design team) confirmed notification letters had been sent to residents. Discussion Items - Construction Contract Change Orders (26-1123): Mr. Flatmyers reported that bids came in low, enabling the restoration of alternates (sidewalks, lighting, stonework) desired by the North Side. Commissioner Goggin expressed gratitude for his continuous oversight of the project budget. - Revocable Occupancy Permits (Xcel Energy): - Hintgen Neighborhood (26-1143): Representatives answered questions from Council President Dickinson regarding the timeline (start Nov 16, 4 weeks), pedestrian disruption (alternate route maintained), and resident notification (letters already sent). - Harvey & Hamilton Streets (26-1144): Representatives stated a timeline of roughly three weeks. Work involves bell holes and sidewalk panel disruptions. Contractor is PSC. Final concrete restoration may be completed in the spring if weather prevents finishing this season. - Street Department Update (25-1458): Superintendent Ryan Rasmussen presented end-of-season updates. - CIP Projects: Wrapping up final paving projects (King, 31st, Ferry Streets) pending favorable weather. - Leaf Collection: Began October 22. Highlighted a new automated leaf truck with double the capacity of previous models, operated from inside the cab via joystick, reducing time spent dumping and allowing curb-line operation in rain. - Operations: Heavy concrete repairs completed on multiple streets (Mormon Coulee, 4th & Jackson, etc.). Staff transitioning to winter equipment readiness. - Personnel & Sites: Nick Smayby hired as Assistant Superintendent; position opened for Street Supervisor/Recycling Coordinator. Yard waste site has 2,900 registered users and will close November 24. Key Outcomes - All motions requiring a vote passed unanimously (5-0): - Minutes from October 26, 2026. - Construction Contract Change Orders (26-1123). - Construction Contract Final Payments (26-1130), noted as the final payment list for the year. - Approval of Right-of-Way Acquisitions for Losey Blvd (26-1139). - Revocable Occupancy Permit for Xcel Energy gas main replacement in the Hintgen Neighborhood (26-1143). - Revocable Occupancy Permit for Xcel Energy gas main replacement on Harvey Street and Hamilton Street between Taylor and Campbell (26-1144). - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 10:33 a.m.

The City Plan Commission met at 4:00 p.m. on November 2, 2026, in Council Chambers. All commissioners appeared present. The commission approved prior meeting minutes and moved through development agreements, rezoning requests, a surplus-property resolution, a quit claim deed, and an industrial-park plan review. Staff also gave an update on the zoning/subdivision code project; no final action was taken on that update. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the prior meeting (motion by Commissioner Yeager; second by Commissioner Bjornstad). One abstention was recorded; the abstaining commissioner was not identified in the transcript, and no opposition was noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Spencer Nicolati, owner of 400-402 Copeland Avenue, supported the rezoning to convert the commercial unit to a two-bedroom apartment. He said the building has 12 affordable sleeping rooms upstairs and a one-bedroom apartment downstairs; the commercial space had housed a karate studio that vacated, and he expected residential demand to fill faster than commercial demand. - Sean Horstman, property owner at 1536 Wood Street, spoke in support of the duplex rezoning. The commission had already voted on the item before his comments. Discussion Items - 26-0975 – 1552 Kane St. purchase and development agreement: Staff recommended approval of the agreement with Northside Neighborhood Center, Inc., saying it would hold the center to proposed renovations and require the property to remain taxable for 20 years. Commissioner Trost asked about the assessed value used for taxes; staff said the estimate was in the RFP/proposal but did not recall the figure. Motion by Commissioner Yeager, second by Commissioner Sciammas; approved with no opposition or abstention. - 26-1005 – 400 & 402 Copeland Ave. rezoning: Staff recommended changing the property from Light Industrial to Special Multiple Dwelling to allow conversion of first-floor commercial space to residential use, noting the building is nonconforming and the change would add housing units. The owner, Spencer Nicolati, said the commercial space had been vacant for a couple months, the building is set up for a two-bedroom apartment, and the area is primarily residential. Motion by Commissioner Trost; approved with no opposition or abstention. - 26-1042 – Island Street parcel split: Commissioner Yeager recused herself. Staff explained the parcel is split-zoned light and heavy industrial; the owner wants to subdivide the paved parking area from the vacant dirt lot and sell the remainder, which requires uniform zoning. Staff said heavy industrial is allowed by the comprehensive plan and consistent with nearby heavy industrial uses, including a salvage yard. Motion by Commissioner Sciammas, second by Commissioner Bjornstad; approved with no opposition or abstention. - 26-1055 – 1536 Wood St. duplex: Staff recommended rezoning from Single Family Resident to Residence District. The property had been a legal non-conforming duplex but lost that status after one unit was vacant for more than 12 months; staff said no modifications were needed and the use is consistent with the comprehensive plan. Motion by Commissioner Gallager, second by Commissioner Yeager; approved. Property owner Sean Horstman later spoke in support. - 26-1062 – 2710 Quarry Road surplus property: Staff recommended declaring the previously subdivided two-parcel area surplus to begin an RFP process for sale. The commission adopted an amended resolution that staff said clarified and properly tied the resolution to the certified survey map and legal descriptions. The amended version passed with no opposition or abstention. - 26-1063 – 510 9th St. S rezoning: Staff recommended changing from Planned Development General to Planned Development Specific for conversion to residential apartments, citing 51 affordable housing units, 53 parking spots, and community space. Staff said the exterior would not change significantly beyond renovations. A developer representative was present in support. Motion by Commissioner Sciammas, second by Commissioner Yeager; approved with no opposition or abstention. - 26-1094 – Quit claim deed to RDA: Staff explained this would transfer about 2,300 square feet from a city/parks parcel in the River Point District back to the Redevelopment Authority, to be combined with a Cowboy Jacks development parcel for an outdoor venue. Staff said the RDA had approved the project and supported the certified survey map. Motion by Commissioner Sciammas, second by Commissioner Yeager; approved with no opposition or abstention. - 26-1141 – 3131 Commerce St. plan review: Staff recommended approval of Torrance Casting’s building addition on the west side of its existing building in Interstate Industrial Park. The addition would expand caster, pattern, and molding production; staff said it met covenant requirements for use, standards, setbacks, and building materials and had city staff approvals. Motion by Commissioner Yeager, second by Commissioner Gallager; approved with no opposition or abstention. Zoning Code Update - Staff reported that neighborhood-association meetings were complete and final outreach was continuing with organizations including the chamber, LBA, NLBA, and Builders Association. Staff was editing drafts of Article 1 (nonconforming uses, Board of Zoning Appeals, definitions) and reviewing Articles 2–5, including design standards, basic zoning districts, and additional area regulations such as bed-and-breakfast rules. - Staff said drafts would be sent to the Plan Commission and Common Council before legislation is introduced. The tentative timeline is introduction in December for the January cycle, with a push to February acceptable. Staff planned three public meetings on the rezoning maps, final districts, permitted uses, and setbacks before Thanksgiving, possibly early December. - Commissioner Trost asked whether stakeholders had been met with at least twice and whether language changed; staff said largely yes, neighborhood associations had been met at least four times, business/industrial groups more than twice, and Friends of the Marsh many times; changes had been made. Commissioner Sciammas raised timeline concerns from a joint meeting; staff said most draft sections were expected by the next week, conservatively 80–90% complete, and that internal review with the attorney’s office and inspections had slowed the schedule. No vote was taken. Key Outcomes - Approved all development, rezoning, surplus-property, quit claim deed, and plan-review items on unanimous voice votes, except for one abstention on the minutes and Commissioner Yeager’s recusal on 26-1042. - Adopted the amended 26-1062 resolution for 2710 Quarry Road. - Zoning/subdivision code update remains in drafting; staff targets a December introduction for the January cycle, with February as a fallback, and plans public map meetings before Thanksgiving or in early December.

The Economic and Community Development Commission (ECDC) of La Crosse held a regular meeting on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, called to order at 3:01 PM and adjourned into closed session at 4:47 PM. All six commissioners were present (Erin Goggin, Gina Miller, Linda Lee, Nicholas Padesky, Shaundel Washington-Spivey, Tamra Dickinson). Vicki Markussen was excused. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the previous meeting were approved by a unanimous vote of 6-0. Discussion Items Item 26-1020: MSP Driftless Apartments and Townhomes Compliance (Considered First) - Staff presented the annual development agreement compliance report, covering the 2024 and 2025 review periods. The report included a $9.6 million tax base guarantee by 2027 and clarifications on PILOT distributions. The motion to approve the staff recommendation and disperse payment passed unanimously (6-0). Item 26-1127: CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Proposals - Staff detailed the history of the city's housing rehab program (over 1,300 homes renovated since the 1980s). Two organizations presented proposals for the $250,000 annual allocation. - Habitat for Humanity (Kaya Fox, ED): Proposed 8-10 households per year. Highlighted a waiting list of 79 income-eligible homeowners in La Crosse (350 across five counties) and a general contractor's license with licensed staff. - Couleecap (Ashley Lesenski): Proposed assisting up to 14 homeowners over two years. Budget breakdown was $415,000 for direct client activities and $85,000 for administration (83% direct). Has three HQS inspectors and offers housing counseling. - Commissioner Goggin moved to refer the item for 30 days; the motion failed for lack of a second. The commission then unanimously voted to move into closed session. Upon reconvening, a motion was made and passed (6-0) to approve the item contingent on city staff approval of the final agreement terms. Item 26-1128: HOME ARP Supportive Services Funds - Staff reported that the original awardee, Coruna Inc., had dissolved. Staff requested guidance on reallocating funds and recommended a 30-day referral. The commission voted unanimously to refer the item. Item 26-1124: Housing Rehabilitation Loan Subordination Request - A request was made to subordinate a $30,000 city rehab loan (first position) for a $100,000 home equity loan. Staff recommended denial based on program guidelines. The commission unanimously voted to deny the request (6-0). Item 26-1129: RFP for 713 St. James Street (Former Community Policing Center) - Staff presented a draft RFP. Commissioners discussed including language for potential residential rezoning (R1/R2) to align with the comprehensive plan. Commissioner Padesky commended the city's proactive approach to repurposing city-owned vacant properties. No formal action was taken; staff will finalize the RFP with feedback. Key Outcomes - Item 26-1020 (Driftless Compliance): Approved (Unanimous 6-0). - Item 26-1127 (CDBG Proposals): Approved, contingent on city staff approval of terms (Unanimous 6-0). - Item 26-1128 (HOME ARP Funds): Referred for 30 days (Unanimous 6-0). - Item 26-1124 (Loan Subordination): Denied (Unanimous 6-0). - Item 26-1129 (RFP for 713 St. James): No formal action; direction provided to staff.

On October 26, 2026, the La Crosse Board of Public Works met at 10:00 AM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The board reviewed routine approvals, including a bidder responsibility finding, a fire station window replacement bid, and three temporary street or occupancy permits. All motions passed; one member was excused and a quorum was present. Approval of Minutes - The board approved the October 19, 2026, minutes on a motion by Council President Dickinson, seconded by Director Gallagher. Discussion Items - Bidder's Proof of Responsibility (25-1202): Staff recommended approving PNT Electric Inc. of La Crosse, Wisconsin, as a responsible bidder for $4,510,778 in electrical, data, fiber, security, and AV work. Councilmember Goggin moved approval, Council President Dickinson seconded, and the motion passed. - Fire Station 1 Window Replacement (26-1088): The fire chief recommended One Call Construction Glass, the low bidder, explaining the project would improve station efficiency and recoup investments such as the more than 56 solar panels on the building. He noted the existing station windows are original to 1968 and can develop frost in winter. One Call previously replaced windows at Fire Station 3 with results the chief described as very satisfactory. Councilmember Goggin asked about bid differences and said he was satisfied with the recommendation. Director Gallagher moved approval, Council President Dickinson seconded, and the motion passed. - Fowler and Hammer Temporary Street Privilege Permit (26-1082): Fowler and Hammer requested closure of the western lane of 3rd Street for construction staging, including bringing in a crane to help the brewery with roof work. Contractor Andy Newbauer said the start depended on DOT approval and could occur as early as Wednesday. Director Gallagher moved approval, Council President Dickinson seconded, and the motion passed. - Metronet Revocable Occupancy Permit (26-1125): Staff described Metronet's request to install new fiber-optic conduit on the 2700 block of Commerce Street as standard. Director Gallagher moved approval, Council President Dickinson seconded, and the motion passed. - Mead and Hunt Temporary Street Privilege Permit (26-1126): Staff explained that Mead and Hunt would survey manholes by opening covers and measuring utility elevations on 4th Street South between Hood and King Streets, using a rolling closure. Ryan Franzini of Mead and Hunt said work would last two to three weeks, about two days per week, closing five to six blocks at a time and shifting lanes as needed, with closures planned between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. starting Wednesday or Thursday. Director Gallagher moved approval, Council President Dickinson seconded, and the motion passed. Key Outcomes - Approved the PNT Electric bidder responsibility finding. - Approved the One Call Construction Glass bid for Fire Station 1 window replacement. - Approved the Fowler and Hammer temporary street privilege permit. - Approved the Metronet revocable occupancy permit. - Approved the Mead and Hunt temporary street privilege permit. - The meeting adjourned after the final item.

The La Crosse Heritage Preservation Commission met at 6:07 p.m. on October 22, 2026, and adjourned at 7:26 p.m. One commissioner was excused. The commission approved the previous meeting minutes, accepted the Joston House nomination for a future public hearing, approved the Ott House nomination, and approved a certificate of appropriateness for a sign at 200 Main Street. Consent Calendar - Prior meeting minutes were approved unanimously on a motion by Commissioner Gallagher, seconded by Commissioner Garland. Public Comments & Testimony - For the Joston House nomination, the commission voted unanimously to open an unscheduled public hearing because of the large audience. The chair announced a 30-minute total limit because opposing viewpoints were present and a 3-minute limit per speaker; nominator David Real and Aquinas representative Ted Knutson were allowed more time. - David Real (nominator, former HPC commissioner, north-side resident) argued that the Joston House, 417 11th Street South, meets local landmark criteria through the family's economic, artistic, educational, and civic contributions. He cited Ernest Joston's hardware and metalsmith business, Margaret Joston's Art Institute of Chicago exhibition and listing in the 1923 Who's Who of Art, and Hazel Joston's 31-year teaching career and $10,000 University of Wisconsin scholarship bequest. He also said the house likely contains Sigelki Coal House millwork and has had only three families of owners, including the Beckstroms for 54 years. - Ted Knutson (president of Aquinas Catholic Schools, representing Aquinas High School, the property owner) opposed the designation. He said Aquinas wants flexibility because educational programming is changing, has no definite plans for the property, would not use it as a parking lot, and would sell before doing so. He said the property was on the market for months, the owner approached Aquinas, and Roger Beckstrom wanted Aquinas to have the opportunity to buy it. He said a steering committee is studying options, including vocational/technical education, and that if Aquinas kept the house it would likely demolish it and build on the site. He argued designation should require owner consent and questioned whether the house is sufficiently unique. - Gretchen Beckstrom (referred to as Gerson in the transcript; former resident) supported preservation, spoke about the family's love and care for the home, and expressed concern about Aquinas's record of removing nearby homes and unmet landscaping promises. She said another family is currently interested in the house. - Amy Dummer (neighbor, 1019 Division Street) opposed demolition because La Crosse is short of housing and demolition would send building materials to a landfill. - Monica Gorski (across-street neighbor) praised the house as beautiful and well preserved and recalled Roger Beckstrom's pride in surviving amid surrounding parking lots. - Heidi Beckstrom Connelly (former resident, New Richmond) urged preservation, describing the home's cherry paneling, golden oak woodwork, and her parents' community contributions. She recalled that her father wanted Aquinas to use the home and was concerned about his neighbors and the block. - Kelly Sulzbach (neighbor, 1117 Division Street) recounted Roger Beckstrom's hope that Aquinas might use the house for international students. After being called back up, Ted Knutson said that idea was not likely and asked the commission to focus on the property's historic significance rather than possible future use. Discussion Items - Joston House Nomination (26-116): The commission had the nomination and an objection letter in Legistar. Deputy Director Ackland said the nomination was complete. He explained that accepting it does not finalize designation; a class 2 noticed public hearing would be required, with the final decision at the next meeting. Staff said the commission has no jurisdiction over the interior after designation. One commissioner questioned why the nomination came about a year after the November 2025 sale and suggested deferring so Aquinas could explore options; other commissioners favored continuing the statutory process. The motion to accept the nomination passed 4-2. - John and Elizabeth Ott House Nomination (26-115): David Real presented research on John J. Ott, president/superintendent of B. Ott & Sons Foundry, and the Ott family's business, welding, and civic contributions, plus likely Sigelki Coal House woodwork. Homeowner Michelle Anderson was present and supported the nomination. Staff called the nomination complete. The commission approved the nomination unanimously. - Certificate of Appropriateness, 200 Main Street (26-119): Staff described a proposed non-illuminated acrylic blade sign about 4.5 by 2.5 feet and 3 inches thick, to be mounted above the storefront with two posts and a maximum of eight clips/fasteners. It met the design standards except that the acrylic composite material required commission approval. Staff recommended approval. The commission approved it unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved prior meeting minutes unanimously. - Opened and closed an unscheduled public hearing for the Joston House nomination. - Accepted the Joston House nomination on a 4-2 vote; the noticed public hearing and final decision will occur on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, at 6 p.m. - Approved the Ott House nomination unanimously; it will also proceed to the November 17 public hearing. - Approved the certificate of appropriateness for the sign at 200 Main Street unanimously. - Received updates: four La Crosse properties were recently listed on the National Register of Historic Places (City Hall, the synagogue on Main Street at 18th and Main, the HSR office building north of the River Point District, and the former fire station on Gillette Street); the commission's property-recognition sign project was reported as well received. The next regular meeting is November 17, 2026, at 6 p.m. in council chambers.

The Redevelopment Authority of La Crosse, Wisconsin met on Thursday, October 22, 2026 at 4:01 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered project updates, financial reports, contract approvals, and a closed session for property acquisition strategy. All action items were approved unanimously by voice vote unless noted. Discussion Items - Monthly Project Management Update (River Point District) – Project manager Jason Gilman reported on undergrounding XL Energy Lines (estimated cost $1.35 million), website updates, and development progress at multiple sites: 360 Real Estate (demolition complete, revising site plan for two mixed-use buildings); Cowboy Jack's (planning April 2027 construction, 9-month build); Rike Key's 'the 11' (60 units with commercial space); War Eagle's condominiums (90% plans complete, awaiting Bridgeville Plaza agreement); Unwind 42 townhomes (first phase spring 2027); MSP senior housing (165–180 units, $80M, expecting update in November). Gilman also shared positive developer feedback from two completed projects (War Eagle and the LOFTS), noting quick lease-up and smooth city processes. - Monthly Financial Update – October 2026 – The financial statement was provided; no questions were raised. - Second Extension to Option to Purchase Agreement – Cowboy Jack's (Lot 2 of Lot 11) – Approved by voice vote (motion by Janssen, seconded by Przytarski). - Second Extension to Option to Purchase Agreement – Cowboy Jack's (Lot 12) – Approved by voice vote (motion by Janssen, seconded by Henline). - Property Maintenance Agreement for Snow Removal – Property Reliance LLC – Approved by voice vote (motion by Henline, seconded by Przytarski). Payments to come from planning option agreement payments. - Resolution Approving Quit Claim Deed – City to RDA for Cowboy Jack's parcel – Staff explained the deed transfers 300–2,500 sq ft (speaker discrepancy) of park-dedicated land needed for Cowboy Jack's concert deck; the land will be combined with the main parcel for sale. Approved by voice vote (motion by Janssen, seconded by Przytarski). - Memorandum of Understanding for Letter of Map Revision (Lot 10) – Professional services to remove lot from floodplain; cost not to exceed $15,000, split with War Eagle LLC. Funding source directed to planning option agreement payments (motion by Janssen, seconded by Henline). Approved by voice vote. - Contract with Project for Public Spaces for Public Market – Pre-phase 1 contract at $45,000 from $600,000 urban renewal funds. Scope includes site visits, stakeholder meetings, market demand analysis, and a final report. Members noted previous 2018 study was by a different company. Approved by voice vote (motion by Henline, seconded by Przytarski). - Resolution Approving Fund Transfer for Property Acquisition at River Point District – The Authority moved into closed session (Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e)) via roll call vote (motion by Przytarski, seconded by Janssen). In closed session, a status update was given and the item was advanced with no recommendation. The meeting adjourned in closed session at 4:42 PM. Key Outcomes - All open-session action items (seven total) were approved unanimously by voice vote. - Closed session held for negotiation strategies; no public action taken. - Next regular meeting expected in November 2026.

The Board of Park Commissioners met on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers at La Crosse City Hall. The meeting lasted approximately 70 minutes and was adjourned at 6:40 PM. All nine commissioners were present except Eileen Kirsch (excused). The board considered ten agenda items, including agreements, concept approvals, event permits, fee schedules, and capital project updates. All voting items were approved, with one abstention on the La Crosse Loggers use agreement. Public Comments & Testimony - Sarah Stinson (Eagle Scout candidate, Troop 19): Presented project to construct six Leopold benches along Marsh Trails, emphasizing community involvement and minimal waste. - Chuck Lee (Friends of the Marsh): Attended to answer questions in support of the bench project. - Kathy Millard (Rotary, La Crosse resident): Presented Polio Walk fundraiser, explaining Rotary's mission to eradicate polio in Afghanistan and Pakistan. - Stacey Masters (Local entrepreneur): Presented Mokki Sauna and Dip concept, citing research on similar successful businesses and benefits for mental health. - Gary Thurk (Consultant, hired by city): Presented campground concept including 8 seasonal sites and 1 group site. Discussion and Voting Items 3.1 Resolution Authorizing Consolidated Use Agreement with La Crosse Loggers (Item 26-1079) - Staff (Jared Flick) explained the agreement consolidates previous amendments, extends term to 2043, places stadium scheduling with the Loggers to reduce city staff time, and changes fees to a static annual rent of $25,000 plus $5,000 city contribution for turf replacement. - Commissioner Olson raised concerns about inconsistent naming ('Loggers' vs 'Loggers/Steam') and missing reference to softball games. Staff and Logger representative indicated they would review with legal counsel. - Commissioner Cleary asked about financial reporting; staff noted standard inspection provisions exist. - Commissioner Littlejohn noted a reference to turf replacement was already completed. - Vote: Motion by Weston, second by Wilson. Approved 7-0-1 (Commissioner Alberts abstained). 3.2 Eagle Scout Project: Leopold Benches (Item 26-1078) - Sarah Stinson described construction of six treated lumber benches; at least two will be placed along the Willow Trail, others as backups. Benches are left natural (possible sealant). - Vote: Motion by Littlejohn, second by Olson. Approved unanimously (8-0). 3.3 Campground Concept at Municipal Harbor (Item 26-0969) - Gary Thurk presented concept for 8 seasonal sites and 1 group site (holds up to 5 families) on west property, city-managed, floodplain safe. Group site will be daily rental. Management plan to be developed later. - Commissioner Wilson asked about onsite supervision; staff indicated no full-time attendant but engagement with police as needed. - Vote: Motion by Weston, second by Alberts. Approved unanimously. 3.4 Mokki Sauna and Dip Concept (Item 26-0960) - Stacey Masters described a sauna and ice plunge business operating off-season (October 16–April 14) at the group site location, open Wednesday–Sunday with staff. - Commissioner Cleary noted potential visual impact of campers; Masters emphasized design approval required. - Vote: Motion by Weston, second by Littlejohn. Approved unanimously. 3.5 River City Youth Hockey 'Pucks & Pints' Fundraiser (Item 26-0964) - Staff (Jared Flick) explained the event is an outdoor beer garden at adult hockey tournament, proceeds support youth hockey. Already approved by city council; board approval needed for park use. - Commissioner Littlejohn initially considered abstaining due to alcohol at youth event but clarified it is an adult tournament; then voted in favor. - Vote: Motion by Young, second by Alberts. Approved unanimously (8-0). 3.6 Polio Walk Fundraiser (Item 26-0961) - Kathy Millard explained the walk on Marsh Trails on October 24, 2026, involving nine local Rotary clubs, part of global polio eradication effort. - Vote: Motion by Olson, second by Cleary. Approved unanimously. 3.7 Pettibone Boat Club 2027 Fees (Item 26-0962) - Staff presented slip fees with a 3% increase across all categories. Non-resident surcharge remains unchanged. - Vote: Motion by Littlejohn, second by Young. Approved unanimously. 3.8 Pettibone Resort Flood Evacuation Plan (Item 26-0963) - Staff confirmed the plan is unchanged from prior years: move campers to Hooska softball parking lot at certain flood levels. Used partially once in first year. - Vote: Motion by Young, second by Cleary. Approved unanimously. 3.9 Capital Improvement Projects Update (Item 26-0986) - Jim Flottmeyer provided updates on multiple projects: Glendale Park (2027, TID), Copeland Park shelter (waiting fiber), Veterans Freedom Trail (80% donations, nearly complete), train pickleball courts (8 added, TID), Memorial Pool wall repair, River Point Marina (waiting marine archaeologist), River Point District Park (phase 1 trail), Badger Hickey Park shelter (30% done), Civic Center Park (Fowler & Hammer bid). Commissioners asked about funding (mix of TID, borrowing, donations) and floodplain constraints. - No vote required; informational only. 3.10 Bicentennial Phase 3 Reroute Concept (Item 26-1077) - Kayla Ryan (Outdoor Recreation Alliance) presented concept to reroute steep section of Bicentennial Trail, reducing grade from 14-21% to under 10% by adding 650 feet. Phase 1 and 2 completed. Requested board endorsement to proceed with public input and final design. - Commissioner Olson noted a typo in the document referencing 2026 completion; corrected to 2027. - Vote: Motion by Littlejohn, second by Young. Approved unanimously (concept endorsement). Key Outcomes - All voting items were approved; only one abstention (Item 26-1079). - Concepts for campground, sauna, and trail reroute endorsed with further details to return for final approval. - Capital improvement update received; no action taken. - The board adjourned at 6:40 PM.