Public Meetings - La Crosse, Wisconsin

The La Crosse City Plan Commission met on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 4:00 PM in Council Chambers. Nine commissioners were present. The meeting covered three rezoning and subdivision items and an update on the zoning code project. Commissioner Elaine Yager recused herself from items 3 and 4. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the February 12, 2026 Special Meeting were approved by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 (1402/1410 Gillette St & 1552 Loomis St): Property owner Nick Webb explained he purchased the property and was told it was correctly zoned, but a dwelling unit added without permits created non-conformity. He presented a plan to connect the structures into a triplex. Commissioners asked about timing and the option of splitting the lot. - Item 3 (2415 State Road – Copper Rocks mixed-use development): Stephen Geyer (resident at 1334 S. 26th St) expressed opposition, citing a planned five‑story building within 50 feet of his property, privacy concerns, traffic congestion at the intersection (described as the busiest in La Crosse), and skepticism about promises made in 2022 that were not fulfilled. Jeremy Novak (360 Real Estate Solutions) spoke in favor, noting the project aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan, housing study, and climate action plan. He stated the project cost is $63 million, will include 247 residences (52 studios, 115 one‑bedroom, 73 two‑bedroom, 8 three‑bedroom), about 300 parking spaces, and 20,000 sq ft of commercial space. He noted the parcel currently pays $73,000/year in taxes and projected $870,000/year upon stabilization. He also explained the project failed to proceed earlier due to rising interest rates and construction costs, and that a TIF application is being negotiated. Discussion Items - Item 2 (Rezoning 1402/1410 Gillette St & 1552 Loomis St): Staff recommended a 60‑day referral to allow the applicant to first seek setback variances from the Board of Zoning Appeals. Commissioners discussed whether the commission could give an opinion to the Board of Zoning Appeals, but staff noted legal concerns about rezoning before variances are obtained. Commissioner Cherf expressed concern about the building’s appearance (concrete block painted, directly on sidewalk). Staff clarified it was a garage conversion done without permits. The motion to refer for 60 days passed by voice vote; minutes indicate the vote was 8 to 1? (the minutes read “8 to 10” but that appears to be a typo; the recorded vote shows Szymalak and Cherf opposed). - Item 3 (Rezoning 2415 State Road – Copper Rocks): Staff presented the revised plan for a mixed‑use development on the former Kmart site, now with five buildings (240 units, increased from 216 in 2022). The development includes townhomes along Farnham Street to transition to the single‑family neighborhood, three mixed‑use buildings, and underground or at‑grade parking. Commissioner Newberry asked about building heights: the odd‑shaped building is five stories (commercial ground + four residential), the L‑shaped building is four or five stories, and the Farnham townhomes are two stories. The motion to recommend adoption of the ordinance passed unanimously by voice vote. - Item 4 (Certified Survey Map & waiver – same property): Staff recommended a 30‑day referral because the submitted CSM was not the most current version; a revised CSM and a drainage utility and access agreement are needed. Jeremy Novak stated the CSM cannot be completed until the rezoning is approved, but he expected it within 30 days. The motion to refer for 30 days passed by voice vote. - Item 5 (Zoning/Subdivision Code Update): Deputy Director Acklin updated that a large draft has been submitted; staff edits are due March 9. Public comment period and legislation are expected in the next few months. Two joint meetings with the City Council are scheduled: March 18 (residential and mixed‑use districts) and April (commercial/industrial). A community engagement tour is planned for May. Key Outcomes - Item 2: Referred for 60 days to the Judiciary & Administration Committee (motion carried by voice vote; minutes note a split vote with Szymalak and Cherf opposed). - Item 3: Recommended to be adopted by the City Council (motion carried by voice vote). - Item 4: Referred for 30 days to the Judiciary & Administration Committee (motion carried by voice vote). - Item 5: Update received; no formal action taken. The meeting adjourned at 4:42 PM.

The Heritage Preservation Commission met on February 26, 2026, to consider local historic landmark nominations for two properties, review four National Register of Historic Places nominations, and discuss a historic certificate initiative. The meeting included a public hearing on the Professional Arts Building, a first review of Emerson Elementary School, and unanimous support for all four National Register nominations. Consent Calendar - Approval of January 29, 2026 Special Meeting Minutes: Approved unanimously by a show of hands. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 26-0063 – Professional Arts Building (Mayo Campus, St. Francis School of Nursing, 615 10th Street South): Public hearing held. Speakers in support included Mark Zettler (President, Preservation Alliance of La Crosse), who argued the building is historically significant for its association with nursing education and its design by master architects Parkinson and Dockendorf. Barbara Coyman (former commission member and PAL board member) urged the commission to evaluate based on criteria, not potential future use. Speakers in opposition included Chris Hosse (Chief Administrative Officer, Mayo Clinic Health System), Tanner Holst (Admin Chair, Mayo Clinic), Tim Boskirk (Mayo Clinic, via Zoom), Matt Trudewell (Vice Chair of Administration, Mayo Clinic), and Jennifer Thompson (Director of Community Engagement, Mayo Clinic). They expressed concerns that local designation could hinder their ability to make timely modifications for patient safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency, potentially making continued investment cost-prohibitive. Discussion Items - Item 26-0063 (continued): After public hearing, Commissioner John Ryman moved to approve the nomination. Discussion noted that the designation would require a certificate of appropriateness for exterior changes, but staff indicated such approvals are rarely denied and can be appealed to the city council. The commission voted unanimously to approve the nomination. - Item 26-0222 – Emerson Elementary School (Hillview Orthopedic School, 2001 Campbell Road): First review of nomination. Nominator Mark Zettler presented the building as historically significant for its role as an early orthopedic school (over 50 years ahead of ADA) and its association with the Works Progress Administration. Superintendent Aaron Engel spoke in opposition, arguing that the orthopedic program was not unique, the building’s original features are gone, and WPA association alone is insufficient. He also raised concerns that historic designation could limit future reuse options, citing the Lincoln Middle School experience where interest dropped from eight parties to one bidder. After discussion, Commissioner Ellie McLoon moved to refer the nomination for 30 days to allow the commission to tour the building. The motion passed unanimously. - Items 26-023, 26-024, 26-025, 26-026 – National Register of Historic Places Nominations: The commission reviewed and commented on nominations for four properties: Fire Station No. 4 (906 Gillette Street), City Hall (400 La Crosse Street), HSR Building (100 Milwaukee Street), and Congregation Sons of Abraham Building (1820 Main Street). Staff noted that National Register designation is honorary and does not impose local restrictions. The commission unanimously approved each nomination and directed staff to send letters of support to the state historic preservation office. Commissioner comments highlighted the historical and architectural merit of each property, with special recognition of the synagogue’s vulnerability and the significance of its mid-century modern design. - Historic Certificate Initiative: Commissioner John Ryman presented a draft proposal for a voluntary certificate program to recognize property owners who make positive contributions to historic preservation. Discussion focused on keeping the process simple and flexible. Commissioners offered minor wording suggestions; the item will be revisited at a future meeting. Key Outcomes - Item 26-0063 – Professional Arts Building: Motion to approve the local historic landmark nomination passed unanimously. The property will proceed to the next step (final designation) after a public hearing. - Item 26-0222 – Emerson Elementary School: Motion to refer the nomination for 30 days passed unanimously. The commission will tour the building and revisit the nomination at the March 26, 2026 meeting. - Items 26-023, 26-024, 26-025, 26-026: All four National Register nominations were approved unanimously with letters of support to be sent by staff. - Historic Certificate Initiative: No formal action; discussion continued, and a revised draft will be presented at a future meeting.

The Redevelopment Authority of La Crosse met on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 5:25 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting covered monthly project and financial updates, a property management agreement, and several actions related to the River Point District development, including lot divisions, sequencing changes, and option agreements. A developer presentation for Lots 1 and 2 was also received. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The January 2026 meeting minutes were approved by voice vote on a motion by Ostrem, seconded by Janssen. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Monthly Update from Project Manager Jason Gilman (Item 26-0185): - Continued responses to the October 2025 RFEI for Lots 1 and 2 and coordination on Lots 11 and 12. - MSP (builder of Driftless project) expressed interest in additional real estate in River Point District. - Coordination with Urban Land Institute on spring meeting and renter economic stability program; matching funds from community foundation grant expected. - Presentation to Valley View Rotary Club; upcoming chamber leadership group presentation. - Engagement with UW-La Crosse student studying health metrics of the district. - Videography project with B Visions (Bailey Nelson) to highlight activity and public health metrics; funded within existing contract. - Field calls from potential residents; War Eagle building now open one floor to occupancy. - Clarification: The PDD Master Plan originally showed single-story buildings and surface parking on Lots 11 and 12; current proposals (two buildings on Lot 11, mixed-use) align with that intent. - Lots 1 and 2 (northern lots) anticipated for lower densities (missing middle housing) per PDD. - Discussion of solar energy coordination with Ethos Power, including proposal for solar installation between Lots 11/12 and parkway. - Response to concerns about landscaping: prairie/naturalized landscaping on undeveloped lots is intentional; annual ryegrass planted for wind erosion control; developers will manicure lots after purchase. - Year-end highlights: Two buildings (War Eagle and The Lofts) totaling 115 new housing units and $30 million investment; extensive public relations and outreach conducted. - Monthly Financial Update (Item 26-0211): - Presented by Andrea Train; no outstanding items, routine monthly report. - Property Management Agreement for 65-67 Kraft St. (Item 26-0230): - Agreement with Coldwell Banker River Valley (10% of rent) to manage two rental spaces: one occupied by Two Men and a Truck (lease through July 2026), the other by 360 (staying for a few months). - Property closing set for March 9, 2026. - Approved by voice vote on motion by Janssen, seconded by Henline. - Update from RyKey on Lot 9 (Item 26-0229): - Jason Schilling (RyKey Properties) reported architectural drawings nearly complete; acquiring bids; unit count, parking, and retail square footage unchanged. - Requested approval to prioritize Lot 11 construction ahead of Lot 9 to get units in ground sooner (12-month build vs. 20-24 months), create early market momentum, and reduce risk of retail vacancy. - Members noted the need to combine this request with action on Lot 11 (next item). - Staff (Jason Gilman) supported the sequencing change, noting it provides more financial leverage for RyKey. - Update on Lot 11 and Consideration of Redesign (Item 26-0227): - RyKey proposing to parcel off a section of Lot 11 for a restaurant (Cowboy Jack's). - Bill Albright (Cowboy Jack's) presented: restaurant in Altoona served 178,000 guests last year, employs 120 (50-60 full-time); proposed two-story building with outdoor seating, flex space, and views of river. - Parking needs: Ideally 120 stalls; the plan uses Lot 12 (over concrete monolith) and Outlot 9 (stormwater vault designed for parking) for parking. - Michael Golod (Altoona city administrator) spoke in support: Cowboy Jack's has been a good corporate neighbor with no issues from residential neighbors; outdoor entertainment conditioned to end by 10 PM. - Jason Gilman explained the concrete monolith under Lot 12 makes large-scale building infeasible; lighter structures or parking are more cost-effective. - Councilmember Janssen raised concern from a letter of opposition (Mr. Idie) about highest and best use; Gilman countered that the proposal (two buildings on Lot 11) closely matches original PDD illustration and creates activation. - Councilmember Julie Henline questioned the parking placement and asked for green space protection on Outlot 9. - Motion by Janssen to approve division of Lot 11 to accommodate Cowboy Jack's on the southern end and to prioritize Lot 11 construction over Lot 9. Motion carried 6-1 (Fimple opposed). - Planning Option Agreement for Lot 12 (Item 26-0228): - Proposed six-month option for RyKey to negotiate with Cowboy Jack's for parking and explore potential building on Lot 12. - Councilmember Fimple opposed, expressing concern that the gateway to the River Point District would become a paved parking lot on prime waterfront, contradicting the vision of a premier public space. - Staff (Andrea Train, Jason Gilman) noted the intent is to study developability; Gilman added that parking is needed for entertainment uses and suggested potential for solar canopies, public use during off-hours. - Motion by Ostrem, seconded by Janssen, to approve the option agreement. Motion carried 6-1 (Fimple opposed). - Response to RFEI for Lots 1 and 2 – Unwind Property Management (Item 26-0219): - Jacob Mooney (Unwind) presented updated plans: Lot 1 – 24 units (mix of two-story and three-story townhouses/row houses); Lot 2 – 46 units (primarily two-story, with possible three-story additions); total 70 units, $16-18.5 million investment. - Units designed as rentals with potential future owner-occupancy; rent target $1,800-$2,500. - Parking: One garage per unit plus tandem/overspill spaces. - Staff recommended direction to move forward, with formal option agreements to be brought next month. - Councilmember Ostrem asked for architectural variety; Janssen asked for density balanced with green space. - Motion by Ostrem, seconded by Sigman, to provide direction to proceed. Approved by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Property Management Agreement for 65-67 Kraft St. Approved (voice vote). - Lot 11 Division and Schedule Change: Approved 6-1 (Fimple opposed). The division allows Cowboy Jack's restaurant on the southern portion; construction priority shifted from Lot 9 to Lot 11. - Planning Option Agreement for Lot 12: Approved 6-1 (Fimple opposed). Six-month option for RyKey to develop parking and study potential building. - Direction on Lots 1 and 2 (Unwind): Approved by voice vote; formal option agreements expected next month. - Next Steps: Staff to bring formal planning option agreements for Lots 1 and 2; RyKey to continue design and geotechnical work on Lots 11 and 12. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 5:25 PM.

The Economic and Community Development Commission met on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 3:05 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Washington-Spivey and adjourned at 4:32 PM in closed session. Commissioners present: Linda Lee, Vicki Markussen, Mary Rohrer, Gina Miller, Tamra Dickinson, Erin Goggin, and Shaundel Washington-Spivey. The agenda included approval of minutes, a property purchase, an update from the Coulee Region Business Center, a development agreement amendment, and a closed session discussion on HOME ARP funds. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the previous meeting were approved by voice vote on a motion by Dickinson, seconded by Markussen. Unanimous. - 26-0212 - Purchase of 622 Avon St: Jonah (staff) presented a proposal to purchase a vacant tax-foreclosed parcel at 622 Avon Street for $35,000 (minimum bid $27,000). The parcel is two blocks from the city's 823 Avon house and fits the program. Questions about timeline (development starting September, completion about a year later), challenges in finding vacant parcels, floodplain concerns (only back end in 500-year floodplain, fill planned), and the offer amount. Motion by Lee, seconded by Goggin, approved unanimously by voice vote. - 26-0210 - Coulee Region Business Center (CRBC) Overview: John Bingle, President of CRBC and Executive Director of the Mississippi River Regional Planning Commission, provided an update. CRBC is located at 1100 Kane Street, has been operating since 1986, and recently hired a new part-time director, John Kruger. It offers below-market rent spaces for startups, including a 1,800 sq ft commercial kitchen for food businesses. CRBC aims to focus on high-growth, high-income businesses and create an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Partnerships include the city, LADCO, SBDC, SCORE, and the county. CRBC has a loan with the city but needs to clarify terms. Commissioners asked about current tenants (diverse mix including wood products, heat exchangers, attorneys, fitness, music, food businesses), occupancy (currently full after adjusting rents), and the possibility of multiple locations. No action taken. - 26-0146 - First Amendment to Development Agreement with The Chalmers LLC: Jason Arswald (Ellers) and Matt Balwig (T. Wall Enterprises) presented. The original three-phase development of a 260-unit multifamily project at 215 Pine Street and 401 3rd Street North will now be built in one phase. The amendment pushes the start date to December 2026 but completion by March 2028 (instead of 2031). No changes to the amount of city assistance. Commissioner asked about market impact; applicant stated no negative impact expected. Motion by Goggin, seconded by Dickinson, adopted unanimously by voice vote. - 26-0205 - HOME ARP: Staff introduced the item to allocate HOME ARP funds for housing units for individuals experiencing homelessness, as outlined in the 2021 action plan. The purpose is to create housing and fund supportive services. After a brief open discussion, a motion to go into closed session (citing Wis. Stats. sec. 19.85(1)(e) for investing public funds) was made by Goggin, seconded by Lee, and approved by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Approval of Minutes: Approved unanimously. - Purchase of 622 Avon St: Approved unanimously. The city will offer $35,000. - The Chalmers Development Agreement Amendment: The resolution approving the first amendment was adopted unanimously. The project will be completed in one phase by March 2028. - HOME ARP (after closed session): The commission voted after returning to open session? The minutes record the following actions after closed session: - Motion by Goggin, seconded by Miller, to approve HOME ARP Development funds split evenly between Cinnaire and Heritage Lofts, contingent on LIHTC awards. Passed 6-1, with Commissioner Lee opposing. - Motion by Dickinson, seconded by Goggin, to approve HOME ARP Supportive funds as follows: $102,745 each to Karuna and La Crosse County, and $125,000 to Cinnaire, contingent on the LIHTC award; if not received, the $125,000 goes to La Crosse County. Motion carried by voice vote. - Closed Session: Motion to enter closed session carried. The meeting was adjourned in closed session at 4:32 PM.

The Board of Public Works met on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM in City Hall Council Chambers. All five members were present. The board approved several routine items, referred one street privilege permit for further review, and held a work session on the 2027-2031 Capital Equipment Budget. Consent Calendar & Routine Approvals - Approval of Minutes: Approved the minutes from February 16, 2026, unanimously. - Bidder's Proof of Responsibility (25-1166): Approved a bid from Bernie Buckner Inc. of La Crosse for HVAC and plumbing work in the amount of $7,183,992. Unanimous. - Construction Contract Final Payments (26-0115): Approved one final payment. Unanimous. - Street Privilege Permit – K.L.C Properties (26-0217): Approved a permit for a projecting sign over right-of-way at 208 4th Street South. Unanimous. - Parking Amendment – Badger Street (26-0218): Approved a Finding and Order to amend parking on the north side of the 1200 block of Badger Street to a 2-hour parking zone. Residents along the frontage may obtain permits from the Police Department to exceed the two-hour limit. Unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Street Privilege Permit – Tasos Psomas (26-0216): The board discussed a permit request for signs over right-of-way at 200 6th Street South. Director Gallagher expressed concern that portions around pillars or columns might violate site triangle requirements. The board voted unanimously to refer the item to the March 2, 2026 meeting for further review. - 2027-2031 Capital Equipment Budget Work Session (26-0134): The board held a work session to review capital equipment requests. Finance department representative Dan explained that the board is to approve the capital equipment portion of the Capital Improvement Plan, with a recommended budget due to the Finance and Personnel Committee by April 1. Dan noted that 68% of funding is from general obligation debt, with other sources including enterprise funds, the general fund operating budget, and a local grant from the county for radio contracts. The total new borrowing is approximately $12.2 million ($4.9 million for equipment, $7.2 million for projects). Mayor Shaundel indicated that the overall CIP borrowing target is being lowered from about $15 million last year to around $13 million this year. Department heads presented their requests: - Public Works (Director Gallagher): 90% of requests are for dump trucks to replace an aging fleet. Emphasis on standardizing vehicles with identical hydraulic systems and controls, and using multi-purpose trucks (e.g., a "stow and go" system that replaces three vehicles with one). Lead times are 1.5–2 years. Director Gallagher also discussed potential insurance savings from reducing the number of vehicles. - Engineering (Kyle): Requests to replace full-size trucks from the lease program, with one unit being replaced by a smaller vehicle. - Information Technology: Requested $50,000 for technology upgrades (laptops/desktops) in 2027, with larger costs projected in 2028–2029 due to replacing COVID-era equipment. Also $900,000 for networking backbone upgrades (storage) due to hardware unavailability and vendor support deadlines. Citywide requests include radio system upgrades, copier/printer replacements, and Motorola handheld radios. - Parks, Recreation, and Forestry (Ryan): Sole request for a lift truck to replace a 2010 model used for tree trimming and storm damage. Also presented La Crosse Center requests: $250,000 for audio-visual equipment upgrade to reduce contract service costs, replacement of stage decking, and purchase of radios to eliminate annual fees. - Fire Department (Director Shott): Requested $40,000 for specialty team equipment including water rescue suits, hazmat gas detection equipment, and technical rescue gear. Noted that air monitoring costs have tripled and that the city continues to have a high number of gas line strikes (over 250 calls for service for odor of gas in homes). Board members asked clarifying questions, including Councilmember Goggin requesting a cost-benefit analysis on the audio-visual upgrade. No action was taken; this was an informational work session with additional meetings planned. Key Outcomes - Approved (all unanimous): Minutes, Bidder's Proof of Responsibility, Construction Contract Final Payments, K.L.C Properties Street Privilege Permit, Badger Street parking amendment. - Referred (unanimous): Tasos Psomas Street Privilege Permit to the March 2, 2026 meeting. - No action: Capital Equipment Budget Work Session; further meetings are planned.

The La Crosse Board of Park Commissioners met on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in Council Chambers at City Hall, beginning at 5:30 PM and adjourning at 6:36 PM. Eight commissioners were present; Commissioner Sandy Cleary was excused. Every item requiring a vote passed unanimously, 8-0. The minutes and transcript show a 5:30 PM start; the supplied event timestamp is 2026-02-19 11:30:00+00:00. Notices and Discussions - Ryan Fitzgerald, a Parks and Recreation Department intern and recreation management major with about nine weeks remaining, introduced himself and said he hoped to learn from the board and work on a major project benefiting the city and parks department. - Director Audegard announced a free R&B Live event at the La Crosse Center on Saturday, February 28, honoring Black History Month, with education and a music group from Milwaukee. Consent Calendar and Routine Approvals - Meeting minutes were approved unanimously, on a motion by Kirsch seconded by Littlejohn. - 26-0172 - Myrick Park fundraising (June 5-6, 2026): Approved unanimously. Central Conservation Inc. (DBA The Nature Place / Wisconsin Conservation Corps) will fundraise during the state track tournament across the street from Myrick Park. Staff stated the revenue split is 50-50, the city's share goes to the Myrick Park improvement account, volunteers will monitor parking, and parking fees will match UWL's $10 per vehicle rate, with $20 for oversized vehicles and buses. Commissioner Kirsch asked that future agenda items clearly identify the fundraising activity as parking. - 26-0175 - Maple Leaf Run/Walk (September 26, 2026): Approved unanimously. Staff described it as an annual event with no changes. - 26-0176 - 30 for Freedom (April 25, 2026): Approved unanimously. Minutes list the event date as April 25; the transcript initially read April 35th, and staff acknowledged the typo and said they would verify the date in the submitted special event permit. - 26-0174 - WDNR Recreational Trails Program grant resolution: Approved unanimously. The resolution supports the Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Department's application for $100,000 in RTP funding for Veterans Freedom Trail construction, supplementing donations already received. The DNR grant is an 80-20 grant; the required 20% match has already been surpassed. The application deadline is March 1, and the city was denied for this grant in the prior year but was invited to reapply. - 26-0177 - Veterans Freedom Park Fishing Pier grant: Approved unanimously. The board accepted the Wisconsin DNR SFR-Fishing Pier grant totaling $42,600. Forest Hills 2025 Season Update - Keith Stolan, general manager of Forest Hills and a Kemper Sports employee (the course has been managed by Kemper Sports since 2009, with a contract through 2028), gave an informational update. No action was taken. - The course hosted about 35,200 rounds in 2025, compared with 35,800 in 2024, with most of March 2025 lost to weather. - The new pavilion opened in May. Outing revenue grew about 30% in 2025, and another 30% increase is anticipated in 2026. - Season pass membership grew by 94 new members to more than 250, compared with barely 100 about ten years ago; there are more than 400 Players Club members. - Junior golf programs served more than 150 children, including free clinics, a free middle school program, and free rounds supported by the Russheiser Foundation. - The range sold more than 10,000 buckets and saw over 650,000 range balls hit. - About $300,000 was committed to irrigation improvements and more than $600,000 in capital improvements overall, including new equipment and golf carts. GPS cart tracking and a text-based notification system are planned for 2026. - Stolan described the 1943 maintenance building as a major future project and noted the discovery of an unexpected 20-inch water line. - Survey scores reached 73.9, the highest in 12 years, above Kemper Sports' 70 target and the national average of about 60. - Council member Weston said her husband told her to give Keith everything he wants, her seven-year-old requested a mini golf addition, and she thanked Stolan for the facility's contribution to the city. Discussion: 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) - Staff introduced the CIP as a multi-committee process focused primarily on maintenance needs, with new items including an Erickson Pool slide replacement, Myrick Park Center HVAC replacement, and a roof replacement. - Commissioner Olson asked about the Green Island tennis facility's $70,000 in 2027 for court resurfacing. Staff corrected the funding source: it will be paid from the Green Island improvement account funded by user fees, not general obligation bonds, and the document would be corrected. - Staff reported that soil boring and methane testing at the former dump site made the municipal harbor campground proposal too expensive, particularly water-line work, though the project remains listed in case conditions change. - North Side Pool will not open in 2026; the closure produced $100,000 in operating savings. The $1 million capital request has been moved to 2028. Commissioner Olson expressed concern about letting the pool sit for two years before repairs. Staff explained year-round maintenance of idle pools, that the capital request covers major infrastructure, that participation is below other pools, and that potential school district partnership options, including community feedback by May and possible Fund 80 or referendum decisions, are being explored. Staff stated the department faced cuts of roughly $450,000 from its $4.5 million operating budget in 2026 and expects a similar reduction in 2027, and committed to keeping the board informed. - Commissioner Wilson asked about two marsh hydrological improvement items. Staff said the $100,000 annual placeholder has been in place for seven years, supports the Smith Group plan and smaller projects, and remains a reminder of ongoing marsh needs; the larger West Cell project received a $3.3 million NESP grant. - Commissioner Trost questioned why another $400,000 was being spent on Memorial Pool. Staff said a significant portion of the wall is failing after the five-year warranty and that the borrowing is needed to keep the five-year-old, $4 million pool operating. - Staff noted that borrowing for capital improvements and equipment had historically totaled about $7.5 million but had ballooned to more than $20 million in recent years, with an unofficial goal of returning to $13-15 million. The $3 million Copeland Park renovation was cited as a factor. - Commissioner Weston asked whether 47 parks was too many and whether consolidation should be considered. Staff said no one wants to minimize the park system, described public-private partnerships and user-fee-funded operations (e.g., waterways, hatchery, boat landings), and said the system also includes marinas, a campground, five boat landings, a golf course, an ice arena, blufflands, marshlands, trails, and the region's largest senior programming. - The board approved the 2027-2031 CIP unanimously, with corrections to mislabeled funding sources. Key Outcomes - All voting items were approved unanimously on an 8-0 vote, with Commissioner Cleary excused. - Approved minutes, all permit and grant requests, and the 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Plan. - Took no action on the Forest Hills 2025 season update; it was informational. - Staff will correct the April 35th typo for the 30 for Freedom event, update the Green Island tennis facility funding source label, and provide future agenda items with clearer fundraiser descriptions. - The meeting adjourned at 6:36 PM.

On February 17, 2026, the La Crosse Center Board convened to discuss operational finances, room tax allocation, deferred maintenance, and upcoming events. The board approved routine items and heard a detailed presentation from center staff on revenue challenges, fixed costs, pricing strategies, and a request for future subsidy consideration. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the previous meeting by unanimous voice vote (motion by Barbara, second by Dave). - Approved the liquor expense report by unanimous voice vote (motion by Barb, second by Scott). Discussion Items - Black History Month Event (February 28, 2026): Staff announced a free community event at the La Crosse Center, featuring RB Live (a Milwaukee band), soul food catering by Press Break, and educational displays from UWL’s African American studies department and La Crosse Public Library (highlighting local Black history). The event will also honor Swayvo Twain, son of the late Angie Stone and D’Angelo, on his birthday. Over 400 people have registered. A partnership with WXOW Channel 19 will provide media coverage. - Room Tax Allocation History: Jared Flick presented data showing that the center’s share of room tax dropped from 35% (approximately $878,000 in 2017 and $939,000 in 2018) to 13.3% (approximately $518,000 in 2023) following a 2019 city ordinance that increased the overall room tax from 8% to 9.5% but reallocated less to the center. The center’s allocation has remained near $500,000 annually through 2025. - Operational Financial Challenges: Jay (center director) reported fixed annual costs of $657,500 before any events: $435,000 in utilities, $110,000 for a Johnson Controls contract, and $112,000 in property/liability insurance. Despite revenue exceeding $7 million in 2025, expenses are rising at a similar pace. The center’s rainy day fund, built from a $2 million Shuttered Venue Grant, is nearly exhausted. - Johnson Controls Contract: Josh and Matt highlighted that the center pays $110,000/year for solar panel and LED lighting upgrades, but solar savings only amounted to $124,000 in total over 5+ years ($50,000 in 2025). Board members criticized the contract as a poor investment and suggested exploring early termination or intergovernmental cooperation with La Crosse County. - Food and Beverage Pricing: Jay Breyer explained pricing strategies, noting that despite national cost increases (8% for goods, 4% for labor), the center faces 18% and 25% increases respectively. Sponsorships with local vendors (e.g., Festival Foods, Gillette Pepsi) helped boost sales: bratwurst sales doubled to 3,804 units in 2025, and branded water sales rose 12% to 33,450 units. - Community and Internal Events: Elizabeth highlighted free community programs hosted at the center, including the Back to School program (serving 937 kids in 2023), Thanksgiving dinner (3,100 meals in 2025), and training for police/fire departments. The center does not charge city departments for use of space. - Staffing and Future Plans: Jay noted the center has added staff but remains below industry standards. He recommended that the city establish a subsidy or carryover reserve fund for 2026–2028 to provide a financial cushion, similar to the Shuttered Venue Grant. He plans to bring a resolution to the Common Council. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes and liquor expenses. - Board members and visiting councilors raised concerns about the Johnson Controls contract and urged renegotiation or termination. - The board requested Jared Flick to compile comparative data on room tax allocations and subsidies for competing venues (e.g., Monona Terrace, Rush Center) for future presentations. - Jay confirmed he will present a formal request for a subsidy/reserve fund to the Common Council in the near future. - The meeting adjourned with no further votes or formal decisions on the financial proposals.

[Introductory paragraph: The meeting consisted of a brief technical discussion regarding a computer system and its capacity, possibly related to meeting technology. No formal agenda items or public comments were addressed.] Discussion Items - Attendees discussed turning on a device after reaching capacity, and noted that board members often have limited participation. - One participant mentioned replacing a computer with an old VNC system, which automatically activated, and commented on a display issue with a sign. - The conversation concluded with a test of the audio system ('Testing one two three'). Key Outcomes - No formal decisions or votes were recorded. The discussion appeared to be a technical check prior to the official meeting.

The Board of Public Works convened on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 10:00 AM (recorded as 10:02 AM in the transcript) in Council Chambers at City Hall. All five members were present, with Director Trane joining virtually. The meeting lasted approximately five minutes and addressed three agenda items, all of which were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (February 9, 2026): A motion by Council President Dickinson, seconded by Director Gallagher, to approve the previous meeting’s minutes passed unanimously without discussion. Discussion Items - Bidder's Proof of Responsibility (Item 25-1165): Staff reported no items for consideration; no action taken. - Request to Approve S&S Cycle – La Crosse Plant Industrial Wastewater Discharge Permit (Item 26-0165): Andrew, Special Projects Coordinator for the City’s wastewater pretreatment program, presented the permit renewal. The existing five‑year permit was set to expire the following month. He explained that the renewal allows continued discharge to the wastewater treatment plant; the permit itself carries no fee, but S&S Cycle pays for testing and program administration. A motion by Director Gallagher, seconded by Council President Dickinson, carried unanimously (5‑0). - Report of Quotes for Non‑Compliant Utility Services (33rd Street) Project (Item 26-0180): Director Gallagher described a new pilot program to assist homeowners with non‑compliant sanitary or water services by bidding out work within the public right‑of‑way and partially assessing costs. He noted that this was the first of three or four such cases expected to come before the board, and that the utility office had already contacted affected owners. A motion by Director Gallagher, seconded by Council President Dickinson, carried unanimously (5‑0). Key Outcomes - All three agenda items (minutes approval, S&S Cycle permit renewal, and the 33rd Street utility services quotes) were approved unanimously with no opposition. - The board advanced a pilot program to address non‑compliant private utility connections, with further evaluations and potential policy changes to follow.