Public Meetings - La Crosse, Wisconsin

The La Crosse Center Board met at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Council Chambers. Staff presented year-end financial results, the 2027–2031 capital improvement plan, and updates on operations, sales and events, food and beverage, and Explore La Crosse. The board unanimously approved the prior meeting minutes, liquor expenses, and the five-year capital projects plan. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes from the previous month's meeting by unanimous voice vote. - The board approved agenda item 26-0277, the request to approve liquor expenses, unanimously. Discussion Items Financial Updates (26-0278) - Alix Talbot reviewed December and full-year 2025 financials. December revenue totaled $664,497, including $96,000 in room tax after Explore La Crosse's share, $30,000 in facilities revenue, $1,700 in miscellaneous revenue, plus food and beverage, production, and convention services activity. No transfers into the surplus account occurred in December. - Expenses included security, advertising, electricity of about $31,000 with $18,000–$21,000 for November and December, operating supplies, F&B limited-term employee salaries of $29,000 and tips of $9,700, operations LTE salaries of $8,600, temporary labor of $2,840 for Holiday Fair teardown, and repairs such as a cooler, ice machine, window cleaning, and a new plow edge. Water, sewer, and storm water showed negative amounts because of an overpayment corrected at year-end; operating supplies also showed a negative amount because F&B inventory was reduced by $56,000 through efficiency. - December finished $39,607 under before the annual JCI payment and $149,000 under after the $110,000 JCI payment. - Full-year figures included room tax of about $518,000, down from about $550,000 the prior year; facility rentals averaging about $36,000 per month; production revenue averaging about $191,000 per month; food and beverage averaging about $161,000 per month; and convention services about $20,000 per month. Sponsors included Chick-fil-A, Pepsi, La Crosse Beverage, Carb List, Ticketmaster, Marine Credit Union, Yay Phillips Beverage, Bacardi, and Festival Foods. - The year ended $245,106 under, or $135,106 under without the JCI payment. Staff confirmed the surplus account is depleted. A board member asked what would happen if 2026 came up short; staff said they are working with the finance department to determine the needed annual transfer, noted the building's performance varies by event mix, and cited a report projecting the building would lose money for five years. Capital Projects (26-0279) - Josh Krenz presented the 2027–2031 capital improvement plan, which will go to the Planning Committee and City Council after board approval. Projects include technology infrastructure upgrades of $50,000 per year from 2025 through 2031; South Hall restroom renovations and sound system upgrades in 2026; HVAC upgrades and South Hall ballroom carpet replacement in 2027; South Hall concrete/terrazzo restoration in 2028; arena locker/dressing room HVAC in 2029; freight elevator and escalator upgrades in 2030; and Riverside carpet and Skywalk rooftop air handler replacement in 2031. - The 2025 South Hall door replacement was completed for code compliance. The chiller replacement bids have returned, with installation expected to begin in April 2026. A temperature-controlled basketball court storage room was discussed; a new court is estimated at $180,000–$250,000. Staff said the wrestling video wall cost $30,000 to rent, and a $500,000 purchase is currently planned for 2029 but may be moved up to 2027 as numbers are refined. - The board approved the 2027–2031 capital projects unanimously. Operations (26-0280) - Josh Krenz reported the chiller replacement installation is expected to take about one month and start in April before cooling season. South Hall restroom renovation is scheduled to start at the end of June. The arena locker-room water heater will be replaced after the Warrant concert and before Bob Dylan. A fire curtain needs repair by a certified specialist; the closest company found is in Lake Geneva. - Staff proposed a chiller service agreement and overhaul funding option for the larger chiller, covering inspections, calibrations, performance reporting, and a complete overhaul. Bundling would provide discounts and spread costs over time. Staff will check for Focus on Energy rebates and report back next month. Sales and Events (26-0281) - Kourtni Alcock reported February had 10 events, about $236,000 in revenue, 7 dark days, and about 16,500 attendees. Highlights included State Palms, the Sports Show with more than 7,000 people, Winter Roots, and Black History Month. - WIAA Team State wrestling generated positive feedback and record attendance in the first expanded-field year; next year adds 8 girls' teams. Future bookings: 2027 has 28 confirmed and 38 tentative events; 2028 has 14 confirmed and 35 tentative events; 2029 has 8 confirmed and 38 tentative events. There are 187 dark days in 2027. - Upcoming shows include Warrant/Firehouse, Filterfinger 11, and Bob Dylan. Dylan is near sellout with only 300-level tickets left and is outperforming promoter expectations; Warrant/Firehouse is overperforming expectations; Josh Turner sold about 2,000 tickets as expected. About 10–12 bookings have come from the closure of the Waterfront. Volunteers are needed for box office/ticket taking and the Yondr phone-pouch process for Bob Dylan. - Marketing analytics for February: Google Ads had 120,000 impressions, 2,700 clicks, a 2.25% click-through rate, 18 conversions, and a 0.66% conversion rate; Meta ads had 141,000 impressions, 10,000 clicks, and a 7.64% click-through rate. Staff said both outperformed typical benchmarks. Intern Mark will present full 2025 marketing analytics at the next meeting. Megan Schwartz, a new full-time sales team member, handles corporate and wedding sales. Food and Beverage (26-0282) - Kate reported State School Darts gross revenue was up about 15% from last year, partly due to a beer price increase from $5 to $6; new beverages included Carbless and PBR Light. The Chamber of Commerce event featured a Bacardi mojito and champagne wall, and WIAA Team State featured a new dirty soda option with positive return. - Upcoming food and beverage plans include a cherry cocktail for Warrant/Firehouse tied to Warrant's "Cherry Pie," a champagne wall for a Saturday wedding, and a new concession stand called "On the Rocks" offering classic cocktails and wine, with mocktails and slushies for events such as wrestling and palms. - Board member Angela Seeger praised the food and beverage team's work at the Chamber event and noted the non-alcoholic options were important to Mayo. Explore La Crosse (26-0283) - Eric Sjolander reported city hotel occupancy was flat for the year and ADR (average daily rate) was down approximately $2.75. February occupancy was down about 2%, while ADR was up about $1 year-to-date. - Circle Wisconsin will be held April 18–21, with its marketplace at the La Crosse Center and about 150 group travel planners expected for one-on-one appointments. A meetings and conventions committee has been formed with nine representatives from venues and hotels; the first meeting is planned next week, then bi-monthly. Key Outcomes - The board unanimously approved the prior meeting minutes, the liquor expenses request, and the 2027–2031 capital projects. - No items were raised for future agendas, and the meeting adjourned early for St. Patrick's Day.

The La Crosse Common Council convened Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall (400 La Crosse Street), with Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey presiding and 13 members present. The meeting covered routine approvals, seven construction contract awards, two split votes on public safety compression pay, a failed downtown beautification funding request, a denied City Hall sixth-floor design appropriation, and a contested zoning change. The meeting adjourned at 8:05 PM. Notices and Recognitions - Council President Dickinson thanked Selena Leis for constituent service regarding pet license renewal at the Treasurer's Office. - Council Member Goggin recapped the March 7 Polar Plunge at Black River Beach (benefiting Special Olympics), thanking Kat Craugh, the Park & Recreation Department, and the La Crosse Dive Team; she also recognized Shirley Hefti, a lifelong north-side resident turning 101 on March 28, with a birthday celebration at the Harry J. Wilson Senior Center. - Council Member Bedford passed along thanks from the Committee for Citizens with Disabilities to the snow-removal crew for clearing north-side curb cuts with smaller equipment. - Council Member Janssen praised La Crosse Center staff after a pre-WIAA Wrestling tournament walkthrough. - Mayor Washington-Spivey acknowledged Women's History Month and thanked women department heads and staff. Consent Calendar - Minutes of February 12, 2026 approved unanimously. - January 2026 Financial Report from the Director of Finance received and filed unanimously. - Resolution approving 2025/2026 bills and engineering estimates paid in March 2026 adopted unanimously. - Consent agenda adopted unanimously, including Ordinances 5365 (permit fee increases for building, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and erosion control), 5366 (state National Fuel Gas Code), 5367 (Fire Suppression System Coordination and Testing), 5368 (retail cigarette, tobacco, and vaping device licensing and minimum age), and 5369 (alcohol regulations and municipal sales in City parks); Investment Services Agreements for April 1, 2026 - March 31, 2027; March 2025-2026 license applications; Twilight Medical Transport LLC vehicle-for-hire license; Fee Schedule amendments; the 2026 Joint Powers Agreement for the County 9-1-1 Emergency System; the First Amendment to development agreements with The Chalmers, LLC (215 Pine Street and 401 3rd Street North); Parks and Recreation position table reorganization; late renewal fees for alcohol/tobacco/vaping applications; Hilltopper Refuse & Recycling contract Amendment No. 1; and two MOUs with International Association of Firefighters Local 127 (vacation conversion and Tri-State Ambulance leased employee compensation). - Re-referred without objection: 26-0133 (zoning for 1402 & 1410 Gillette Street and 1552 Loomis Street) to the May 2026 meetings (60 days) and 26-0144 (Certified Survey Map, right-of-way dedication) to April 2026 meetings (30 days). Discussion Items Construction Bids - 2026 Sewer Utility Sidewalk Replacement bids REJECTED unanimously (26-0158). - Contracts ADOPTED (unanimous unless noted): - Trane US, Inc. - $87,125.00 - La Crosse Center Chiller Replacement (26-0089) - Steiger Construction Inc. - $229,800.00 - 2026 Citywide Traffic Signal Interconnect (26-0151; 12-0-1, Padesky non-voting) - Gerke Excavating Inc. - $110,814.80 - St. Andrew Street, Copeland Avenue to Rose Street (26-0152) - Fowler & Hammer, Inc. - $102,549.50 - 2026 Citywide Miscellaneous Curb Ramp & Sidewalk Replacement (26-0154) - Fowler & Hammer, Inc. - $119,007.80 - 2026 Annual Miscellaneous Curb & Gutter and Pavement Replacement (26-0156) - Fowler & Hammer, Inc. - $152,073.95 - 2026 Water Utility Sidewalk Replacement (26-0157) - Gerke Excavating Inc. - $576,428.25 - Liberty Street, Windsor Street to Clinton Street (26-0159) Public Safety Compression Pay (26-0128 and 26-0150) - Fire resolution (26-0128) ADOPTED 8-4-1 (no: Janssen, Newberry, Trost, Northwood; abstain: Mindel). HR Director Rebecca Franson said the amendment adds the Fire Chief to the 2015 compression-pay program because a 0.6% pay gap existed between the Assistant Fire Chief and Fire Chief, versus the 7% standard from the 2022 pay-class study. The payment is set at 6% of gross earnings into a 457 account and was estimated at $8,000-$10,000 from the fire operating budget; no documentation was found explaining the 2015 omission. Trost voted no, citing constituent concerns about spending; Janssen noted the recent removal of responsibilities from the Fire Chief and that 4% collective-bargaining increases run through 2028. - Police resolution (26-0150) ADOPTED 8-4-1 on the same tally. Franson explained the 2016 structure sets Captain pay at 7% above the average of police lieutenant earnings; the amendment adds the Assistant Chief and Chief, with no payments anticipated in 2026 or likely 2027. Weston voted yes with hesitation, noting state employment does not provide similar compression adjustments; Kahlow attributed budget strain to state shared revenue policy. TID 11 Downtown Beautification Project (26-0209) - FAILED - A 30-day referral motion failed 5-8 (yes: Janssen, Sleznikow, Stine, Newberry, Trost). The resolution requesting TID 11 funds failed 4-9 (yes: Janssen, Stine, Kahlow, Padesky). - The $125,000 request was for Downtown Main Street's (DMI) planters and trash can replacement proposal; DMI's itemized estimate was $92,650, leaving roughly $32,350 in contingency. Parks Director Trusoni said the department had not agreed to DMI's roles-and-responsibility sheet (installation, removal, ownership, and insurance all assigned to the city) and noted the landscaping budget was cut from about $70,000 to $50,000 (Janssen separately cited a $33,000 beautification reduction). Engineering Director Gallagher said 10 additional trash cans could cost at least $10 per can per service, or roughly $5,200 to $10,000 annually, and that a sealed-bid installation likely could not be ready for spring 2026 planting. Finance Director Train said TID 11's expenditure period ends October 12, 2026, that the TID holds about $19 million, and that making TID 11 a donor to TID 17 is an option. - Sponsor Kahlow called it a one-time capital cost for city-owned planters that downtown businesses have maintained for 15-20 years with no operating budget impact. Janssen, Bedford, and Goggin argued details (MOU, process, scope) should be resolved first; Bedford also asked to separate planters from trash cans and to address accessibility concerns for blind or cane users. Newberry opposed, saying, "If we don't have $30,000 for the sixth floor, I don't think we have $120,000 for the flowers." Nuisance Abatement Ordinance (26-0171) - ADOPTED unanimously. City Attorney Murdy explained the change removes a clause that barred charging property owners who had not yet instituted eviction proceedings, providing an additional enforcement tool for drug- and gang-house nuisances. Water Utility Capital Reallocation (26-0213) - ADOPTED 12-1 (Kahlow no). Unused funds from completed capital purchases/projects are re-allocated to requested Water Utility equipment; roughly $10,000 in surplus returns to the Water Utility cash balance. City Hall Sixth Floor Remodeling Design (26-0173) - NOT ADOPTED - The motion NOT to adopt carried 8-5 (yes: Goggin, Janssen, Sleznikow, Stine, Kahlow, Padesky, Newberry, Bedford; no: Dickinson, Mindel, Trost, Weston, Northwood). The proposal would have appropriated about $35,000-$36,000 for architecture/engineering design and a $1 million placeholder in the 2027 CIP for a full sixth-floor remodel. Goggin called the request "a terrible idea" given closed pool and library decisions; Janssen said it was not a priority; Padesky said the city should first decide on a city administrator; Dickinson supported proceeding with design; Bedford noted Legal Department needs on the sixth floor but agreed timing could wait. 2415 State Road Zoning Change (26-0143) - ADOPTED 9-4 (no: Goggin, Janssen, Kahlow, Padesky). The ordinance transfers the property from the Local Business District to the Planned Development District - General, allowing a mixed-use residential and commercial development. Padesky opposed, citing parking on Farnham Street pushing traffic into neighborhoods and the building height growing from three stories (shown at the 2020-21 Kmart community meeting) to five stories in the 2022 application. Janssen said he does not support five-story buildings on that lot. Key Outcomes - Referred 30 days: Mayor's appointments of Rachel MacFarland (Board of Zoning Appeals) and Gina Miller (Economic and Community Development Committee) to April 9, 2026, for legal corrections (12-1, Trost no). - Unanimous approvals: minutes; financial report; March 2026 bills and engineering estimates; sewer sidewalk bid rejection; all seven construction contracts (one with Padesky non-voting); consent agenda; nuisance abatement ordinance (26-0171). - Split approvals: fire compression pay 8-4-1; police compression pay 8-4-1; Water Utility reallocation 12-1; 2415 State Road zoning 9-4. - Failed: TID 11 Downtown Beautification referral (5-8) and final adoption (4-9). - Not adopted: City Hall sixth-floor remodeling design funds (8-5). - Re-referred: 26-0133 to May 2026; 26-0144 to April 2026.

The La Crosse City Council held a planning meeting on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, from 6:09 p.m. until 8:08 p.m. in the Council Chambers. The meeting featured detailed presentations from the Utilities Department covering the water, sanitary sewer, and stormwater utilities, focusing on infrastructure challenges, regulatory compliance, and financial outlooks. The meeting was adjourned early due to loss of quorum. Discussion Items - Utilities Overview (Tina Erickson, Utilities Finance & Compliance Manager): Presented the history of the utilities (water utility created before 1997, sewer in 1997, stormwater in 2012). Key assets: 222 miles of water main (oldest from 1890), 198 miles of sewer main (oldest from 1882), 153 miles of storm main (oldest from 1936). Replacement target is 1% per year, but recent average replacement is behind. Highlighted aging infrastructure, emerging contaminants (PFAS), workforce retention, technology (GIS transition), and affordability challenges. Average water cost per gallon is under two cents. The utility funds capital projects, and rate increases are needed to cover costs. - Water Utility (Derek Greebon, Water Utility Superintendent): Provided historical timeline from 1877 to present. Key facts: 16,800 water services, 2,000 hydrants, 220 miles of water main. Average daily consumption is 9 million gallons, with capacity of 35 million gallons per day if all wells run. In 2025, responded to 16 main breaks, performed over 700 required water tests, and maintained a 24/7 on-call system. Upcoming projects: rehabilitation of the Myrick Pump House (1913), drilling Well 27, installation of 2 miles of 24-inch water main on Highway 16, and fencing around well houses after a gasoline contamination incident at Well 25. - Wastewater and Stormwater (Jared Greeno, Wastewater Superintendent): Described the $65 million plant upgrade for low-level phosphorus compliance (limit of 0.1 mg/L), now meeting the limit with an average of 0.05 mg/L. Biosolids management now uses a heat dryer, reducing hauling from 2,400 semi-loads per year to about 365 dump truck loads, and producing renewable electricity via a cogeneration engine. The plant serves 85,000 people and treats 9.5 million gallons per day. Stormwater presentation was cut short due to loss of quorum; noted that large rain events are increasing, and MS4 permit compliance involves street sweeping (4,993 tons collected in 2024), catch basin cleaning, and green infrastructure. - Council Questions & Discussion: Councilmembers asked about the overall utility operating budget (estimated $20-30 million, separate from the city's $72 million general fund), the Board of Public Works oversight, GAAP vs. PSC accounting differences, the issue of individually disconnectable water services (shared utilities in duplexes/condos), and leaf pickup benefits for stormwater quality. A pilot program was approved by the Board of Public Works to have the city bid out work and assess costs for separating shared utilities. Councilmember Weston expressed concern that residents face high costs due to historic negligence. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken during this informational meeting. - The meeting was adjourned at 8:08 p.m. after quorum dropped below the required nine members (Council Members Mindel and Weston had left at 8:07 p.m.). - The stormwater utility presentation, which began but was interrupted, is available for review from the January 12, 2026 Board of Public Works meeting. - Councilmember Newberry requested a separate meeting to discuss GAAP vs. PSC accounting in more detail.

The Board of Public Works met on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM in the City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order at 10:03 AM and adjourned after approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Commissioners present: Andrea Trane, Erin Goggin, Shaundel Washington-Spivey, Tamra Dickinson. Matt Gallager was excused. The agenda included approval of minutes, a lease approval, a construction contract final payment, a presentation on utilities business services, and a discussion on the 2027-2031 Capital Equipment Budget, which was referred to the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (March 2, 2026): A motion by Trane, seconded by Dickinson, carried unanimously to approve the minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Tim Larson was present but did not speak. Presentation: Utilities Business Services Quarterly Update - Tina, Utilities Finance Compliance Manager, provided a comprehensive overview of the water, sewer, and stormwater utilities. Key points included: - Infrastructure: 220 miles of water main (oldest from 1890), 198 miles of sewer main (oldest 1882), 153 miles of storm main (oldest 1936). Asset values (2024): water $61M, sewer $126M, stormwater $27M. - Statistics: 3.1 billion gallons of water pumped in 2024; 1,400 hours of after-hours staff time for water distribution; 2,000 hours for sewer; 4,993 tons of street sweeping debris collected. - Challenges: Aging infrastructure, regulatory requirements (e.g., phosphorus treatment, emerging contaminants), workforce shortages, technology upgrades, and customer affordability. The utility aims to replace 1% of mains annually but currently falls short. - Financial: Water utility has a rate application pending; sewer utility saw a 65.72% expense increase in 2024 due to plant upgrades; stormwater utility now funds 100% of capital projects since 2022. - Billing: Over 19,400 accounts, 77,000 bills processed in 2024. Residential sewer credits are applied based on winter average usage. The presentation was for information only; no action taken. Discussion Items - Approval of Lease for Outdoor Patio for The Rustic LLC (Item 26-0237): - Director Trane explained the lease is for two outdoor patio spaces on city property formerly used by Dublin Square. The assessor’s value is $2,200/year, but the applicant requested $1,000 for the first year. Council member Chris Kellow expressed support. The lease is for one year, with a longer-term lease to follow. The insurance requirement was deemed sufficient by the city’s insurance consultant. Motion by Goggin, seconded by Trane, to approve. Carried 4-0 (1 excused). - Construction Contract Final Payment (Item 26-0239): - Staff reported a negative $41,000 final payment due to a formula error in the spreadsheet tracking work for the miscellaneous concrete contract (Fowler & Hammer). The error was caught by staff, and the city will invoice the contractor for the credit. Motion by Dickinson, seconded by Goggin, to approve. Carried 3-0 (2 excused). - Approval of 2027-2031 Capital Equipment Budget (Item 26-0134): - Departments presented replacement needs: sanitary sewer (Jared), water (Derek), parks and forestry (Mr. Sonny), streets and recycling (Ryan). Key discussion points included: - Councilmember Goggin questioned replacing vehicles in “good” condition with low mileage, citing cost savings. Staff explained that idle time (1 hour = 30 miles equivalent) and a 10-year replacement cycle maximize trade-in value and reliability (e.g., a 2017 truck with 33,387 idle hours equals 145,000 miles of wear). - Director Trane and Chad from finance discussed how residual values from trade-ins are not shown in the budget but are captured in a sales account, reducing future borrowing. The city borrowed $2M less in 2025 due to such offsets. - Tina clarified that utility budgets are cash-funded, not borrowed, and unused funds do not carry over. - Councilmember Jansen requested a cost-benefit analysis for vehicle replacement decisions. - Parks presented a leaf vacuum collector (first of five) that will improve leaf collection and allow quick switching to snow plowing. A video scoreboard for the La Crosse Center was discussed as a potential revenue generator (estimated payback 4-5 years). - Motion by Goggin, seconded by Dickinson, to refer the item to the March 16, 2026 meeting. Carried 3-0 (2 excused). Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (unanimous). - Lease for The Rustic LLC approved (4-0-1 excused). - Construction contract final payment approved (3-0-2 excused). - 2027-2031 Capital Equipment Budget referred to the March 16, 2026 Board of Public Works meeting (3-0-2 excused). - The Utilities Business Services Quarterly Update was received for information. No action taken.

The Climate Action Plan Steering Committee met on March 9, 2026 at 4:01 PM in the Eagle Room at City Hall and via Zoom. The committee approved previous minutes and discussed several agenda items including funding for solar panel removal, sponsorship of a visiting speaker, updates on zoning work, and Earth Fair participation. The meeting was adjourned at 4:35 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote following a motion by Fortin, seconded by Hanna. Notices & Discussion - Youth Climate Action Fund: Staff reported that round two final reporting has been submitted and returned for revision. Round three awardees have not been announced. A committee member asked about the timing for involving students; staff will follow up. - Energy Innovation Grant Program: Staff provided an update on the extended home energy assessments, noted errors in Q4 2025 invoice that have been corrected, and mentioned that the Public Service Commission is accepting comments for the next round. - Bright Action Newsletter: The newsletter highlighted a "Bring Your Own Mug" campaign and a story on an electric vehicle purchase. Staff requested suggestions for future content. - US Solar Power Purchase Agreement: Staff received no update but noted a February meeting discussing the need for multiple large entities to express interest directly to XL Energy. Discussion Items 1. 26-0251: Request for Funds to Temporarily Remove Solar Array at Fire Station No. 3 Staff reported that after seeking additional quotes, estimates for temporarily removing solar panels during roof replacement are now under $12,000 (down from an initial $40,000). The fire department will select a contractor. Committee members expressed support, noting the funds originated from solar installations on fire stations. 2. 26-0170: Request to Sponsor Prairie Springs Lecture Series Keynote Chair Ericson announced that the full fundraising goal for keynote speaker Timothy Beatley (author of Biophilic Cities and Bird Friendly Cities) has been met; no funding request was made. The keynote will be April 15-16 at UWL. The committee brainstormed ways to maximize Beatley's visit, including inviting city departments (stormwater, parks, engineering), the mayor, developers, and institutions like Emplify. Ideas included a seminar at the Nature Place or a tour of the River Point District. 3. 26-0018: Zoning for Climate Action Update Staff reported that consultants have selected about 10 communities to interview regarding sample ordinances, with interviews expected to wrap up within a week. The approach focuses on core elements and then add-ons, including equity and ADA accessibility considerations and incentives. 4. 26-0141: 2026 Earth Fair Vendor Participation Staff and Chair Mindel will be out of town due to the National Planning Conference. Chair Ericson offered to represent the committee at the Earth Fair. The committee discussed collaborating with the Parks Department and Habitat for Humanity (ReNew the Block) to showcase how climate actions connect with community partnerships. Natalie Heneghan noted that Habitat already tracks which Climate Action Plan actions relate to ReNew the Block. Key Outcomes - Solar Panel Removal Funding (26-0251): Motion by Mindel, seconded by Lenard, to authorize up to $12,000 in committee implementation funds for the Fire Department to contract removal and reinstallation of solar panels at Fire Station No. 3, with staff given administrative authority for amounts up to $12,000. Approved unanimously. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for April 13, 2026. Agenda will include an update on the communications plan.

The Finance & Personnel Committee of the City of La Crosse met on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 6:04 PM in the Council Chambers, City Hall. Chair Goggin presided. Present: Barb Janssen, Erin Goggin, Larry Sleznikow, Rosanne Northwood. Excused: Aron Newberry, Chris Kahlow. The meeting adjourned at 7:03 PM. The committee considered 11 resolutions and one collective bargaining update, including votes that split 2-2 on fire and police compression pay resolutions. Public Comments & Testimony - Chad Honeycutt (City of La Crosse DMI) spoke on item 26-0209 (TID 11 funds for Downtown Beautification). He described 94 planters downtown (24 good, 30 fair, 40 poor) and requested $92,000 for replacements and additional trash cans, noting that $125,000 was originally requested but reduced. He expressed support for the project as a one-time capital improvement to enhance downtown aesthetics and visitor experience. He offered to explore repair options for existing planters. Discussion Items - 26-0054: Investment Services Agreements (April 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027) – Director of Finance Hawkins explained the annual practice of investing up to 25% of investable cash with local institutions, requiring they beat the local government investment pool rate. Approved unanimously. - 26-0122: Fee Schedule Amendment (Building, Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC, Erosion Control Permits) – Director Train clarified the update allows fee increases beyond CPI, as approved earlier by the J&A committee. Approved unanimously. - 26-0128: Compression Pay for Battalion Chiefs, Assistant Fire Chief, Fire Chief – HR Director Franzen stated the 2015 resolution needed updating due to less than 1% gap between assistant chief and chief. She noted the 6% compression gap was set 10 years ago. Councilmember Janssen questioned if overtime for subordinates was the root issue. Motion to recommend adoption failed 2-2 (Yes: Goggin, Sleznikow; No: Janssen, Northwood). - 26-0146: First Amendment to Development Agreements with The Chalmers LLC – Julie Emsley and Matt Balwig (T Wall Enterprises) presented combining two phases into one due to state building code changes. Timeline moves from March 2031 to November 2028. TIF payments unchanged. Approved unanimously. - 26-0149: Table of Positions and Classifications Reorganization (Parks & Recreation) – Director expressed proactive reduction of one full-time position, saving $60,000 in light of budget cuts. Approved unanimously. - 26-0150: Compression Pay for Police Captains, Assistant Chief, Chief of Police – No discussion. Motion to recommend adoption failed 2-2 (same split as 26-0128). - 26-0173: City Hall Sixth Floor Remodeling Design – Councilmembers Sleznikow and Janssen argued against spending on design given budget constraints, with Janssen noting citizens cannot see upper floors. Motion to recommend not adopting passed unanimously. - 26-0197: Late Renewal Fee for Alcohol, Tobacco, Vaping Applications – No discussion. Approved unanimously. - 26-0209: TID 11 Funds for Downtown Beautification – Public hearing held (see above). Committee discussed repairs, future costs for trash can emptying, and need for more information. Motion to refer to Common Council with no recommendation passed unanimously. - 26-0213: Re-allocate Unused Funds for Water Utility Capital Equipment – Councilmember Sleznikow commended the utility for efficiency. Approved unanimously. - 26-0214: Amendment No. 1 to Refuse and Recycling Services Contract (Hilltopper Refuse) – Included in closed session (see Key Outcomes). Approved after closed session. - 26-0220: Vacation Conversion MOU (Firefighters Local 127) – Short-circuited by mayor on 3/2/2026 but considered. Included in closed session. Approved after closed session. - 26-0221: Tri-State Ambulance Employee Leased Agreement MOU – Short-circuited by mayor on 3/2/2026 but considered. Included in closed session. Approved after closed session. - 26-0001: Collective Bargaining Update – No action taken. Key Outcomes - Resolutions Recommended to Adopt (to Common Council 3/12/2026): 26-0054, 26-0122, 26-0146, 26-0149, 26-0197, 26-0213, 26-0214, 26-0220, 26-0221. All passed unanimously (4-0) except 26-0214, 26-0220, 26-0221, which passed 4-0 with Council President Dickinson voting and Northwood excused. - Resolutions Failed (2-2 tie): 26-0128 (Fire compression pay) and 26-0150 (Police compression pay). Neither recommended. - Resolution Recommended Not to Adopt: 26-0173 (City Hall sixth floor design), passed unanimously (4-0). - Resolution Referred with No Recommendation: 26-0209 (Downtown Beautification), passed unanimously (4-0). - Closed Session: The committee convened in closed session (Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e)) for items 26-0214, 26-0220, and 26-0221 to discuss negotiation strategies. Council President Dickinson joined in closed session to maintain quorum. - Unanimous consent was used to open and close the public hearing for item 26-0209 and to enter closed session.

The La Crosse Arts Board met on March 3, 2026, at 14:30 UTC (transcript indicates 8:30 AM local time, a discrepancy). All members were present except Chair Chris Kahlo and Maureen Freeland. The board approved previous meeting minutes unanimously, introduced new member Alex Fowler, and considered one grant application. Consent Calendar - Approval of previous meeting minutes: Unanimously approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were heard. Discussion Items - Small Project Grant (Item 260236): The board discussed a request from Megan Forge for a $750 small project grant to conduct an adult dance class or performance at the Pump House. Board members noted that the application lacked specific details such as location, cost, and plans. Andrew expressed concern about the lack of preparation. Dylan moved to not approve the grant, seconded by Eva. Key Outcomes - Motion to Deny Grant: The board voted to not approve the small project grant for Megan Forge. The vote was 5 in favor of denying, 1 opposed (Andrew), and the chair abstained. The board will provide Megan Forge with the reasons for the denial. Note: The meeting date/time from the instruction is 2026-03-03 14:30:00+00:00, but the transcript shows the meeting started at 8:30 AM. This may indicate a time zone conversion or a discrepancy.

The Judiciary & Administration Committee met on March 3, 2026 at 6:07 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting adjourned at 7:14 PM. All seven members were present (Councilmember Mindel arrived at 6:22 PM). The committee reviewed 12 agenda items, including routine license renewals, ordinance amendments, and a public hearing on a proposed mixed-use development at 2415 State Road. Consent Calendar - 26-0094: Various license applications (March 2025-2026). Approved unanimously to recommend to Common Council. - 26-0095: Application of Twilight Medical Transport LLC for 2026 Public Vehicle for Hire License. Approved subject to compliance (pending insurance documents), unanimous. - 26-0121: Ordinance amending fee schedule for building, plumbing, electrical, HVAC and erosion control permits. Approved unanimously after staff explanation. - 26-0123: Ordinance adopting current State of Wisconsin National Fuel Gas Code. Approved unanimously. - 26-0126: Resolution approving 2026 Joint Powers Agreement for County 9-1-1 Emergency System. Approved unanimously. - 26-0127: Ordinance creating Chapter 46 regarding Fire Suppression System Coordination and Testing. Approved unanimously after explanation by Superintendent Griebon. - 26-0186: Ordinance amending retail cigarette, tobacco products, and electronic vaping devices licensing and minimum age. Approved unanimously. - 26-0196: Ordinance amending alcohol regulations, licensing requirements and municipal sales in City parks. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - 26-0143 – Mixed-Use Development at 2415 State Road: A public hearing was held with four speakers. - Timothy Koterwski (La Crosse resident) expressed opposition due to increased traffic at an already dangerous intersection and loss of sunset views. - Steven Geier (La Crosse resident, backyard adjacent to site) opposed, citing invasion of privacy from a building within 50-60 feet of lot line, increased traffic, and safety concerns with angled parking on Farnham Street. - Barb Clark (La Crosse resident, 30 years) expressed concern but not outright opposition, noting the project has stalled since 2017, questioning developer commitment, and asking the council to address underground springs, traffic, and potential for further delays. - Ellie McLoone (La Crosse resident, co-president of Bluffside Neighborhood Association) raised concerns about traffic, emergency vehicle access, lack of transparency from developer, and changes in building height (from original three stories to five) and parcel split. - Two individuals registered in support but did not speak. Discussion Items - 26-0133 – Rezoning for Rental Units at 1402/1410 Gillette Street and 1552 Loomis Street: The applicant was present. Vice Chair Trost noted that the Plan Commission recommended a 60-day referral to allow the applicant to pursue a variance with the Board of Zoning Appeals. The committee followed that recommendation, moving to refer for 60 days, which passed unanimously. - 26-0143 – Mixed-Use Development at 2415 State Road (continued after public hearing): The developer (Jeremy) addressed concerns, stating the project follows city plans, the height has been five stories since 2022, density increased due to rising interest rates. He provided statistics: approximately 247 residences (33 townhomes, 52 studios, 114 one-bedroom, 73 two-bedroom, 8 three-bedroom), 20,000 sq ft commercial space, total project cost $63 million, estimated assessed value $50 million. He argued traffic demand would be reduced 50-60% compared to former Kmart. Councilmember Padesky questioned about utilities (lift station), privacy buffers, on-street parking, and past representations. Councilmember Weston asked about commercial tenant commitments (one lease ready for execution contingent on approvals) and outdoor amenities. Vice Chair Trost expressed strong support, emphasizing housing needs and alignment with city plans. The committee voted 6-1 to recommend adoption to Common Council, with Councilmember Padesky abstaining. - 26-0144 – Certified Survey Map and right-of-way dedication: The Plan Commission had referred it for 30 days. The committee followed suit, referring for 30 days, unanimous. - 26-0171 – Nuisance Abatement of Drug and Gang Houses: City attorney explained the proposed amendment removes language from Sec. 30-3(e) that could imply Fair Housing Act violations, based on federal DOJ guidance. She noted no actual discrimination in La Crosse but recommended elimination to avoid potential lawsuits. Councilmember Trost initially voted yes by mistake and later changed to no. The motion carried 6-1, with Trost voting no. Key Outcomes - All items were either recommended for adoption to the Common Council (approval) or referred for further consideration. - 26-0094, 26-0095, 26-0121, 26-0123, 26-0126, 26-0127, 26-0186, 26-0196: Recommended to Common Council. - 26-0133: Referred for 60 days. - 26-0143: Recommended to Common Council (6-1, Padesky abstained). - 26-0144: Referred for 30 days. - 26-0171: Recommended to Common Council (6-1, Trost no). - Meeting adjourned at 7:14 PM.

The Common Council of La Crosse, Wisconsin, held a special meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, in Council Chambers at City Hall to consider Resolution 26-0215, approving an agreement to purchase real estate at 300 Second Street South. Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey presided. According to the minutes, the meeting was called to order at 4:30 p.m.; the transcript states 4:32 p.m. Eleven members were present, three were excused, and Councilmember Bedford arrived at 4:40 p.m. during closed session. Agenda Item - Resolution 26-0215 — Resolution approving an Agreement to Purchase Real Estate for 300 Second Street South, La Crosse, WI. The agenda noted that the Council could convene in closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e) to formulate and update negotiation strategies and parameters. Votes and Actions - Councilmember Padesky moved, and Councilmember Weston seconded, to convene in closed session. The motion carried by a vote of 10 yes, with Councilmembers Kahlow, Mindel, and Bedford excused. - The Council entered closed session and later adjourned from closed session at 5:55 p.m. No further open-session action on Resolution 26-0215 is recorded in the minutes or transcript. Key Outcomes - The Council authorized closed-session deliberations on negotiation strategies related to the property purchase. No open-session vote on the purchase agreement itself was taken during this special meeting.