Public Meetings - La Crosse, Wisconsin

The Judiciary & Administration Committee of the City of La Crosse met on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Vice Chair Jennifer Trost presided. Five members were present (Bedford, Padesky, Trost, Stine, Dickinson) and two were excused (Weston, Mindel). The committee considered five agenda items, including a certified survey map, a resolution to rename the Arts Board, a special event alcohol license, a slate of various license applications, and a preliminary plat. All votes were unanimous (5-0) with the excused members not voting. Public Comments & Testimony - Hannah Skibba Amundson, Executive Director of La Crosse Festivals, spoke in support of the organization’s application for a Class B combination license and outdoor cabaret license. She cited that Oktoberfest generates over $26 million in annual economic impact, contributes $1.2 million in tax payments to state and local governments, supports 225 full-time equivalent jobs, and in 2025 returned over $200,000 to more than 75 nonprofits, schools, and charities. She clarified the license would be used to expand events beyond the current two per year limitation and that no poured liquor would be served during Oktoberfest; only pre-packaged canned beverages would be offered. She also requested a waiver of the 90-day usage requirement since the license would not be needed between November and March. - Jennifer Krisnowich, President of the Board of Directors for La Crosse Festivals, echoed support, emphasizing the goal of more fully utilizing the fest grounds year-round and maintaining safety. She stated the organization would offer pre-packaged ready-to-drink canned beverages such as Sun Cruiser and Carbliss, and that there is no intention to operate as a traditional bar. She noted the fest grounds have a strong track record with minimal police intervention. Discussion Items - 26-0144 – Certified Survey Map (Copper Rocks): The committee reviewed a certified survey map for Lot 1, CSM 67, Volume 19, located in the northwest quarter of the northeast quarter of Section 9, involving a request for dedication of right-of-way and waiver of platting requirements. Deputy Director Acklin provided information. Councilmember Stine noted that UWL students had researched the property, discovering it was historically a trailer park called Krause’s Cabin Court (with a K) until 1964, including a motel, grocery store, and gas station. The Plan Commission had recommended a one-month referral. The committee voted to refer the item for 30 days to the Common Council on April 9, 2026. - 25-0994 – Rename Arts Board to Arts and Culture Board: Mayor Washington Spivey spoke, explaining the goal is to expand the board’s purview to include cultural events and ultimately create a full-time position to support the board. The resolution was recommended to be adopted by the Common Council on April 9, 2026. - 26-0136 – Bottoms Up Special Event License: Application by A & S Foster LLC dba Bottoms Up for an expansion of alcohol beverage license and street privilege permit for a special event at 500 Copeland Ave on June 13, 2026. Melissa Scalf, representing the applicant, confirmed this is the 14th annual event with no changes. The committee recommended approval subject to compliance. - 26-0164 – Various License Applications: Sergeant Monduano presented the quarterly police department report on alcohol and tobacco compliance. Highlights: - Tequilas (West Ave): Failed to follow an abatement plan (missing customer logs) and was cited for an underage individual on February 25, 2026. Four citations in 12 months: three for underage consumption (one upheld, two dismissed and appealed to circuit court in April). If upheld, the establishment could be eligible for revocation or non-renewal. - Sitco: Continued selling prescription medications (generic Viagra, not approved for sale in the U.S.) despite previous charges. A compliance check with the Department of Revenue found more illegal prescription drugs. - Partnership with Dept. of Revenue: Expanded to include tobacco and vape inspections; six random checks conducted last quarter. - Bar checks: Up 40% from last year, with 123 checks this quarter. - New chronic nuisance property: Chuck’s Bar (La Crosse Street) had three qualifying enforcement events in 12 months, including a bartender serving an underage individual who presented a fake ID, and six underage consumption citations. The department plans to issue a chronic nuisance property letter and meet for an abatement plan. - Future plans: Continue compliance checks, partner with La Crosse County Health Department for tobacco sales. After the report, the committee heard public testimony from Amundson and Krisnowich (see above). Clerk Elson clarified that the city has met its quota of regular licenses; La Crosse Festivals paid a $10,000 one-time fee for a reserve license. The licenses on the list are for the remainder of the current license year (through June 30, 2026). He also noted a new item: a producer full-service retail sales license for Driftless Peer LLC (doing business as La Crosse Distillery) to operate a fixed outlet at the Cargill Room, effective May 1, 2026, after the current licensee (Riverside Center 2) surrenders its combination license. The committee recommended approval of all licenses subject to compliance. - 26-0254 – Preliminary Plat of Featherstone Rise: Preliminary plat for a subdivision in the Town of Shelby, La Crosse County. Nicholas Weber was present in support but did not speak. The Plan Commission had unanimously approved it the previous day. The committee recommended approval to the Common Council. Key Outcomes - 26-0144 (CSM – Copper Rocks): Motion to refer for 30 days to the Common Council on April 9, 2026. Passed 5-0. - 25-0994 (Arts Board rename): Motion to recommend adoption to the Common Council on April 9, 2026. Passed 5-0. - 26-0136 (Bottoms Up special event): Motion to recommend approval subject to compliance to the Common Council on April 9, 2026. Passed 5-0. - 26-0164 (Various licenses): Motion to recommend approval subject to compliance to the Common Council on April 9, 2026. Passed 5-0. - 26-0254 (Featherstone Rise plat): Motion to recommend approval to the Common Council on April 9, 2026. Passed 5-0. - The meeting adjourned at 6:30 PM.

The Judiciary & Administration Committee held a special evidentiary hearing on March 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The sole agenda item was the appeal of Rolling Trees LLC's application for a Cigarette, Tobacco, and Electronic Vaping Device License, which had been denied by the La Crosse Police Department. The committee functioned in a quasi-judicial capacity, hearing testimony from the applicant and police department representatives, deliberating in closed session, and ultimately voting unanimously to recommend denial to the Common Council. Evidentiary Hearing - Applicant Testimony: Alan Andonegui (owner of Rolling Trees LLC) testified that he is fighting pending criminal charges (forgery and theft) in court and plans to plead not guilty. He stated the charges stem from a check incident in 2025, which he claimed was a misunderstanding: a check made out to him personally was deposited for a wholesale purchase, but the buyer never picked up the products, and the money was later refunded. He argued that the delay in resolving the license is harming his business, especially with upcoming sales (e.g., April 20). He noted that he previously sold CBD products without a tobacco license, but after a law change in 2025, the Department of Revenue informed him of the requirement, leading to his application in February 2026. - Police Department Testimony: Police Chief Kudron and Records Supervisor Greg Elsen presented evidence that the criminal complaint (still pending) involves a forged check from Tree Huggers LLC that was altered to be payable to Andonegui. They also cited a citation issued to Rolling Trees for selling without a seller's permit. The district attorney's office confirmed the case is active. The department explained that Rolling Trees was discovered during a random compliance check partnered with the Department of Revenue. - Cross-Examination: Committee members asked questions about the check's origin, the business operations, and the timeline of the license application. The applicant stated that the check was for a wholesale discount purchase and that he had no intent to commit fraud. Key Outcomes - Motion to Deny: Councilmember Stine moved to deny the appeal based on: (1) lack of good moral character due to statements in the criminal complaint and false information in the application; (2) pending criminal charges substantially related to the licensing activity. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Padesky. - Vote: The motion carried unanimously by a vote of 4-0 (with 3 excused: Bedford, Weston, Mindel). The committee recommended denial to the Common Council, which will make the final decision on April 9, 2026. - Next Steps: The applicant may reapply after one year. The committee will issue a written decision within 20 days.

The Board of Public Works met on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 10:00 AM (called to order at 10:05 AM) in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 400 La Crosse Street, La Crosse, Wisconsin. Members present: Erin Goggin, Matt Gallager, Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey, and Tamra Dickinson. Andrea Trane was excused. The board unanimously approved several items, including construction contracts, easement acquisitions, a noise exemption, and wastewater treatment plant upgrades. Consent Calendar - Bidder's Proof of Responsibility (25-1172): Approved bids from August Winter and Sons Inc. ($292,660) and Wappashaw Construction Company Inc. ($21,575,132). Motion carried 4-0 (yes: Goggin, Gallager, Washington-Spivey, Dickinson; excused: Trane). - Resolution dedicating City property (26-0204): Dedicated Lot 42 of Sexauer's Addition to public right-of-way and approved partial vacation for Badger Corrugating Company. Staff described it as a housekeeping item to clear a decades-old dedication issue on 13th Street. Motion carried 4-0. - Resolution allocating unused Sanitary Sewer funds (26-0238): Allocated funds for the final payment on the $65 million Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrades, which were $120,000 over budget. The overage will be reimbursed by the Clean Water Fund. The plant now generates its own electricity from methane, dries biosolids for Class A fertilizer, and meets new phosphorus limits. Motion carried 4-0. - Approval of payment list for Easement Acquisitions for Highway 16 (26-0247): Approved $54,500 from the Clean Water Fund for four permanent water main easements and one temporary easement, all acquired for installation of a 24-inch water main. Motion carried 4-0. - Construction Contract Change Orders (26-0319): Approved Change Orders 12 and 14 for La Crosse Public Library interior renovations. Staff indicated these may be the final change orders. Motion carried 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing - Construction Noise Exemption (26-0249): No members of the public appeared to speak. The hearing was held for Gerke Excavating's request for a limited exemption to work outside the city's 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. noise restrictions on Highway 16. Discussion Items - Highway 16 Water Main Noise Exemption (26-0249): The applicant, Scott from Gerke Excavating, explained that night work would be limited to staging materials and lane closures to avoid traffic disruption. No water main installation would occur at night. The board approved the exemption unanimously (4-0), with no public opposition. - WWTP Loading Rerate (26-0296): Jared, staff, presented a contract with Donohue Services to re-rate the plant's BOD (biological oxygen demand) loading capacity from the current 29,000 lbs/day to approximately 40,000 lbs/day. This is needed because the plant exceeded its previous limit, triggering a poor DNR score. The re-rate will be funded from the operating budget and will not change customer fees. The motion passed unanimously (4-0). Key Outcomes - All seven agenda items were approved with unanimous 4-0 votes (all present members voting yes; Trane excused). - The board authorized final close-out of the WWTP upgrade project, including a $120,000 overage reimbursement from the Clean Water Fund. - The board approved four permanent and one temporary easement for the Highway 16 water main project. - Gerke Excavating received a limited noise exemption for night work along Highway 16. - Donohue Services was contracted to perform a loading re-rate study for the wastewater plant. - Two change orders for the library renovation were approved, likely marking completion of that project. - Meeting adjourned at 10:18 AM.

The La Crosse City Plan Commission met on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 4:00 PM in Council Chambers. All nine commissioners were present. The meeting covered three action items and an update on the zoning code project. The meeting adjourned at 5:15 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: A motion by Commissioner Yager, seconded by Commissioner Cherf, to approve the March 2, 2026 meeting minutes carried on voice vote. Discussion Items - Item 26-0144: Certified Survey Map (Copper Roth's Development) – Deputy Director Eckland reported that discussions between engineering staff and the developer are ongoing, and staff requested a 30-day referral. Commissioner Yager recused herself. A motion by Commissioner Cherf, seconded by Commissioner Stine, to refer for 30 days carried on voice vote. - Item 26-0204: Resolution Dedicating City Property and Vacating Right-of-Way (Badger Corrugating Company) – Deputy Director Eckland explained this was an administrative cleanup to properly record a parcel related to a previously approved street vacation. A motion by Commissioner Gallager, seconded by Commissioner Trost, to adopt the resolution carried on voice vote. - Item 26-0254: Preliminary Plat of Featherstone Rise (Extraterritorial Jurisdiction) – The applicant proposes subdividing a farmstead in the Town of Shelby into 36 residential parcels and a half-acre park, served by private wells. The Town of Shelby and La Crosse County had already approved the plat. Deputy Director Eckland noted the city’s review is for extraterritorial jurisdiction, with no zoning authority. The Planning Department recommended approval. A motion by Commissioner Cherf, seconded by Commissioner Yager, to approve the preliminary plat carried unanimously on voice vote. - Item 25-0143: Update on Zoning/Subdivision Code Project – Deputy Director Eckland provided an update: the final draft of the subdivision ordinance is expected shortly, with staff review and introduction to the Common Council in June. The zoning code workshops continue, with the next joint meeting scheduled for May 4, 2026. Public information sessions will begin in May. No vote was taken. Key Outcomes - The March 2, 2026 meeting minutes were approved. - The Certified Survey Map (26-0144) was referred for 30 days. - The resolution (26-0204) dedicating city property and vacating a portion of right-of-way was adopted. - The preliminary plat for Featherstone Rise (26-0254) was approved. - The zoning code update was received as information; no action taken.

The Heritage Preservation Commission met on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 6:03 PM. All members were present in person or online. The commission unanimously approved the previous meeting minutes, voted 5-2 to advance a historic landmark nomination for Emerson Elementary School to a public hearing, and approved several changes to Chapter 115 ordinances to streamline processes. Consent Calendar - Approval of the February 26, 2026 meeting minutes: Motion by Laura Garden, second by Ellie McLoon, passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Barb Coyman, representing the Preservation Alliance of La Crosse (PAL), spoke in support of the nomination of Emerson Elementary School (2001 Campbell Road) as a local historic landmark. She emphasized the building's significance as the first and only dedicated orthopedic school in La Crosse, built with New Deal funds in 1940, with a highly intact exterior and interior. - Dr. Engel, Superintendent of the La Crosse School District, opposed the nomination. He argued the orthopedic program was not unique, the building has lost its original character due to additions, the nomination process is opaque and capricious, and designation would divert funds from special education students to maintain an antiquated building. Discussion Items - 26-0222 Nomination of Emerson Elementary School (Hillview Orthopedic School): Commissioners debated the merits. Supporters (John Ryman, Ellie McLoon, Laura Garden, Eric Garland, and one additional member) cited the building's role in polio treatment, New Deal federal funding, intact condition, and rarity (one of three remaining orthopedic schools in Wisconsin). Opponents (Natalie Hennigan and another commissioner) argued the nomination focused on events rather than physical structure and lacked sufficient evidence of significance. A motion to approve the nomination passed 5-2, sending it to a public hearing at the next meeting (April 23, 2026). - Review of Chapter 115 Ordinances: Tim (staff) led a section-by-section review, recommending removal of Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) review from several categories to reduce process barriers. The commission considered and voted on multiple sections: - Carriage Houses: Removed the assessed value requirement (Section F) and streamlined the plan review process (Section C) to allow single submission if plans meet standards. Unanimous. - Rescue Platforms: Removed HPC review responsibility, as these now fall under the Design Review Committee. Unanimous. - Second Garage: Removed the assessed value requirement and the preliminary plan requirement, aligning with carriage house changes. Unanimous. - Front Yard Additional Parking: Removed HPC review; inspections department will handle based on existing standards. Unanimous. - Awnings Over Public Sidewalks: Removed HPC review except for properties within a historic district or individually designated historic structures. Unanimous. - Private Garages in C3 Community Business District: Removed redundant language (parent E) requiring HPC approval for garages within National Register District, as such review already occurs through existing district procedures. Unanimous. - Historic District Creation: The commission agreed to keep the existing process for creating local historic districts, noting its strength and community support (e.g., 10th and Cass District). Staff noted future work on developing criteria for reviewing lot subdivisions in historic areas. Key Outcomes - Approved the nomination of Emerson Elementary School for local historic landmark designation (5-2), scheduling a public hearing for the next meeting on April 23, 2026. - Approved several changes to Chapter 115 ordinances (all unanimous) to remove HPC review from certain categories, streamlining processes for accessory structures, rescue platforms, front yard parking, awnings, and private garages. Recommendations will be forwarded to the zoning code update consultants. - Noted that the Mayo Clinic's appeal of the Professional Arts Building designation will be heard at a City Council public hearing on April 9, 2026 at 6 PM. - Adjourned meeting after completing all agenda items.

The La Crosse Redevelopment Authority (RDA) met on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers, adjourning at 5:07 PM. The meeting covered updates on the Public Market, the River Point District Park Plan, Lot 6 senior housing, Lots 11 and 12 subdivision and feasibility, and option agreements for Lots 1 and 2. Several votes were taken, advancing multiple developments. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the February 26, 2026 meeting were approved by voice vote (motion by Przytarski, second by Fimple). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were recorded. Discussion Items - Public Market Update (Item 26-0304): Julie (staff) presented an update on renewing the public market project through a City-RDA partnership. She noted that pre-development work (feasibility study, site analysis, business plan) was done around 2017-2020 but paused due to the pandemic. New conversations with other Wisconsin markets indicated a need to update those studies and hire a dedicated project coordinator using TID 11 funds (expenditure period ends October 2026, TID active until 2031). The RDA expressed general support for moving forward, with a resolution to be brought back for formal approval at a future meeting. - River Point District Park Plan (Item 26-0287): Dan Trisoni (Parks Deputy Director) presented a concept master plan for the park transferred from RDA to the Parks Department. Four goals: connectivity, low maintenance/sustainability, complement the development, and enhance natural beauty. Two million dollars is requested in the 2027 capital improvement budget (not yet approved) for Phase 1. The plan includes a boardwalk, gas easement limitations, flood concerns, and coordination with the Friends of La Crosse River Marsh. The Park Board approved the concept as a starting point. Estimated build-out could take up to 10 years, depending on funding and donations. - Lot 6 Update from MSP Development (Item 26-0257): Brian Woolsey (MSP) and Katie (Rinka architect) presented an evolved concept. Market research (Tracy Cross) showed only 100 units possible for active senior (55+), so they shifted to a full senior care campus (independent living, assisted living, enhanced care, memory care) with higher density. The two-acre site will have two structures (one primarily independent/assisted living, the other memory care/enhanced care), with rooftop amenities, limited parking (<1 space per unit), and a loading zone proposed on a triangular portion outside Lot 6 (a view corridor parcel). The RDA indicated no objection to planning for the loading zone, but noted coordination needed on stormwater and landscaping. - Lots 11 and 12 Update from RyKey and Cowboy Jack's (Item 26-0288): Lee Haramza (RyKey) reported Lot 11 apartments are finalizing plans at 60 units, with a July 2026 start target. He detailed geotechnical challenges on Lot 12: a concrete monolith 7-9 ft deep extending 18-20 ft, requiring 67-75 ft concrete piers for any structure, making building infeasible. Instead, Bill Albright (Cowboy Jack's licensee) proposed using Lot 12 as a parking/landscaped area with solar canopies, foraging plants, and activated space to support the restaurant and marina. He argued this is the highest and best use, preserving view corridors and exceeding original density targets. The RDA voted to direct staff to draft a division agreement of the option for Lots 11 and 12 (motion by Janssen, second by Ostrem, carried on voice vote). - Planning Option Agreement for Lot 1 with Unwind (Item 26-0290): Unwind representatives confirmed they are ready to proceed with geotechnical work and design. The RDA approved the option agreement (motion by Ostrem, second by Fimple, carried on voice vote). - Planning Option Agreement for Lot 2 with Unwind (Item 26-0291): Similarly approved (motion by Ostrem, second by Fimple, carried on voice vote). - Project Manager Update (Item 26-0295): Jason Gilman reported on coordination for Lots 1, 2, 11, 12, workforce housing connections with major employers (via La Crosse Chamber), renter equity program interest from Northwestern Mutual, Edward Jones, Trust Point, and large employers like Mayo. Also: a video for ULI conference, solar energy system discussions with Ethos Power, and ongoing developer inquiries. - Financial Update (Item 26-0286): The March 2026 financial report was presented; no questions were raised. Key Outcomes - Public Market: General agreement to proceed; staff to bring forward a resolution specifying TID 11 fund transfer and project coordinator duties at a future meeting. - River Point Park Plan: Concept approved by Park Board; RDA acknowledged the presentation; next steps include design development and 2027 budget approval. - Lot 6 Senior Care Campus: RDA endorsed continued planning, including the proposed loading zone on the triangular parcel, contingent on coordination with city staff. - Lots 11 & 12 Division: Motion carried to have staff draft an agreement separating the option for Lot 11 (RyKey) and Lot 12 (Cowboy Jack's/Cap Vest); to be brought back for approval. - Lot 1 and Lot 2 Option Agreements: Both approved by voice vote, formally moving Unwind into the next phase of development. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 5:07 PM.

Mayor Washington-Spivey called the Economic and Community Development Commission (ECDC) to order at 3:03 PM on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, in City Hall. All six commissioners were present except Council President Dickinson (excused). The meeting covered a TIF application for a waterfront lot, an update on child care initiatives, an ARPA fund reallocation resolution, and the initial discussion of a housing fund policy. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: A motion by Councilmember Goggin, seconded by Commissioner Lee, carried by voice vote to approve the minutes of the previous meeting. Discussion Items - Introduction of TIF Applicant – Lot 11, River Point District (Developer: RyKey Properties): Jason Gilman (RDA project manager) and Lee Haremza (RyKey owner/operator) presented. Gilman noted that Lot 11 is one of few waterfront parcels in the River Point District. RyKey was awarded an option after a previous developer released its rights and following an expression-of-interest process. They propose a three-story, 60-unit market-rate apartment building with ground-floor parking and a 10,000 sq ft restaurant space (Cowboy Jack's) on the south end. Amenities include a health/wellness facility, rooftop terrace, and golf simulator. Construction could begin as early as July 1, 2026. RyKey has already leased 25% of its nearby Lot 8 project (occupancy April 1) and demonstrated project management ability. Commissioners expressed support for the development. - Update from The Parenting Place: Kaylee Nix (child care development coordinator) reported cumulative results from January through December 2025: 189 child care slots added, $361,518 distributed to programs, 114 slots reopened via Back to Capacity grants, 10 new programs opened, and the child care waitlist decreased by 738. An employee survey (309 responses, 30 employers) found 77% of respondents spent over the federal 7% threshold on child care, 59.8% have considered staying home due to child care issues, and 96% found child care benefits attractive. Since December, the fourth mentorship round closed, $19,500 distributed to five centers reopening 22 slots, and the third facility retention grant applications closed. Next steps include administering that grant, continuing outreach, and planning the fourth provider appreciation event and third empowerment conference. - Resolution 26-0289: Administration and Financial Maintenance of ARPA Funds: Julie (staff) explained the resolution reallocates under-budget ARPA project funds, shifts eligible projects funded by other sources (e.g., fire truck, zoning code update) to ARPA, and adjusts the contract with The Parenting Place. The North La Crosse Business Association (NLBA) project, not selected through an earlier RFP, received direct council funding and is included for reallocation. Commissioner Goggin asked about future availability of freed-up funds; staff confirmed future allocations would require council action. A motion by Commissioner Miller, seconded by Councilmember Goggin, carried by voice vote. (Note: Minutes indicate Commissioner Markussen recused herself from the vote; the transcript does not mention the recusal.) - Housing Fund Policy Outline (Item 25-1069): Mara (staff) introduced a draft policy for grants for acquisition, demolition, and redevelopment of housing (affordable and market rate), intended to add single-family and missing-middle homes. This first outline aligns with the city's consolidated plan goals to increase owner-occupied housing and diversity of units. The item is not final; the goal is to present a policy to council in about a month. Following discussion, a motion by Councilmember Goggin, seconded by Commissioner Lee, to move the policy forward carried unanimously by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Approved (consent): Minutes of previous meeting. - Approved (unanimous voice vote): Resolution 26-0289 reallocating ARPA funds (Markussen recused). - Approved (unanimous voice vote): Housing Fund Policy Outline moved forward for further development and eventual council consideration. - Action items: TIF application for Lot 11 introduced and discussed; no formal vote taken at this meeting. RyKey will proceed with design and seek necessary approvals. - Meeting adjourned at 3:34 PM.

The committee met to discuss a proposed ordinance regulating electric scooters and electric bicycles (Agenda Item 44-1118). The meeting included public testimony, detailed discussion on sidewalk use, park restrictions, enforcement challenges, and next steps. No formal action was taken; the ordinance will be revisited at the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the February 10, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote (motion by Andrew, second by Rocky; no corrections). Public Comments & Testimony - Bridget (resident): Expressed concern that requiring e-scooter and e-bike users to ride on streets with speed limits over 25 mph is unsafe due to aggressive traffic and poor road conditions. Supported allowing sidewalk use, noting that riders naturally yield to pedestrians and that these vehicles are economical and sustainable. - James Longhurst (resident): Provided a detailed critique of the March 2026 draft ordinance. He argued that legal definitions of sidewalks and shared-use paths are unclear, making enforcement difficult. He opposed the draft's attempt to restrict sidewalk use to only certain road speed thresholds, citing bridges and overpasses as problematic. He also questioned whether the ordinance is necessary given lack of safety data and expressed concern that it would limit transportation freedom rather than enable it. Discussion Items - Electric Scooter & Electric Bicycle Ordinance (Item 44-1118): Attorney Ellen Atterbury presented the latest draft, which aimed to balance feedback from the previous meeting. The core debate centered on sidewalk use: whether to allow e-scooters and e-bikes on sidewalks and under what conditions. Proposed approaches included restricting sidewalk use to roads 25 mph without bike lanes (current draft), using road classification system (suggested by Andrew), or applying a simple "reasonable and prudent speed" rule (favored by several members). Additional topics: - Park Restrictions: Specific prohibitions for Riverside Park International Gardens, the levee areas, and Forest Hills Golf Course were debated. Kevin raised concerns that the proposed restrictions would force bicyclists into parking lots or unsafe routes. Committee members disagreed, with some arguing the levee should remain pedestrian-only during ship landings. - Enforceability: Sergeant Hughes and Ellen discussed the difficulty of enforcing specific speed limits (e.g., 10 mph) without signage, and noted that reasonableness standards are already used in law. Andrew suggested a non-binding 10 mph guideline for education. - Age and Helmet Requirements: Considered but not pursued due to enforcement challenges and legal questions. Ellen noted that similar requirements for motorcycles could invite legal challenge. - Motor vs. Throttle Language: Clarification needed in park restrictions to distinguish between motor disengagement and throttle use. Ellen agreed to revise the language. - Committee Updates: A member proposed establishing monthly "mobility chats" – informal public meetings to discuss bike, pedestrian, mobility issues separate from the formal committee agenda. The first would be planned for May 2026. Key Outcomes - No vote taken on the ordinance; it will be revised and brought back for further discussion at the next committee meeting. - Ellen Atterbury and committee leadership will work offline to refine the ordinance language, particularly regarding sidewalk use and park restrictions. - The committee will consider a resolution to repeal section 44-28 (unrelated) at a future meeting. - A proposal for monthly mobility chats will be developed and potentially added to the April agenda for discussion. Note: The meeting transcript indicated a date of March 10, 2026, but per official instructions the meeting is recorded as March 24, 2026.

The La Crosse Board of Public Works met on March 23, 2026 at 10:00 AM in City Hall. All members were present (Erin Goggin, Matt Gallager, Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey, Tamra Dickinson) except Andrea Trane (excused). The meeting covered approval of the 2027-2031 capital equipment budget, a bidder's proof of responsibility, and several other administrative items. Consent Calendar - Minutes of March 9, 2026: Approved unanimously. - Bidder's Proof of Responsibility: Approved four contractors: Hallberg Tennis Court Services LLC ($1,077,570), Pember Companies Inc. ($81,952,485), Steiger Construction Inc. ($26,713), and Patriot Fence and Construction LLC ($4,943,488). Motion carried unanimously. - Construction Contract Change Orders: Approved, including Fire Station 3 change orders with contingency available ($107,903.85). - Gerke Excavating Temporary Wastewater Discharge Permit: Approved, no fiscal impact to the city. - Sale of WWU 2018 Sewer Flushing/Vacuum Truck: Approved for sale at $115,000, proceeds to utility cash. - Construction Contract Final Payments: Approved for water utility side tap replacement, funded from water utility cash. Discussion Items - 2027-2031 Capital Equipment Budget: The board discussed and amended the IT borrowing schedule: $380,000 in 2027 (reduced from original) and $660,000 in 2028 (reduced from original), per IT Director's explanation of storage and backup unit replacement timing. The amendment passed unanimously. Departments then presented their requests. Airport Director Klaus requested $300,000 for IT equipment, $85,000 for a utility mower (landside), $60,000 for security access control system upgrade (phase 2), $50,000 for airfield line striping equipment, $20,000 for a scissor lift, and $85,000 for a maintenance pickup. Councilmember Goggin questioned the need for the striping equipment (two pieces) and the security system upgrade, given the equipment was noted as fair condition. Director Klaus explained that the security system is at the end of its 10-year support life and that TSA requirements demand upgrades. The mower, though fair, is hard to find parts for. IT Director Hawkins presented radio system upgrades ($978,000) and a five-year Motorola agreement. Fire Department requested $40,000 for specialty team equipment replacement (water, USAR, hazmat). The capital equipment budget was approved as amended by a vote of 3-1 (Goggin opposed). - Request for iPad Airs for Yard Waste Site: Nick from Refuse & Recycling explained the need for two Apple iPad Air 11" to scan barcodes on new stickers, saving on sticker purchases and postage. The request was approved unanimously. - Special Report: Sanitary Sewer Laterals on 33rd Street South: A pilot program to assess four properties for non-compliant laterals discovered during property sales. The city will pay for street work and traffic control; the assessed cost covers lateral installation. Property owners may pay up-front or over 10-15 years on property taxes. Approved unanimously. - Donohue Services WWTP Loading Rerate: Referred to the next Board of Public Works meeting (one week) due to lack of staff to answer questions. Motion by Goggin, second by Dickinson, carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - 2027-2031 Capital Equipment Budget approved as amended (3-1, Goggin opposed). - Donohue Services WWTP Loading Rerate referred to next meeting. - All other items approved unanimously.