Public Meetings - La Crosse, Wisconsin

This was a test meeting of the La Crosse Common Council. Note: The agenda was dated October 1, 2026, but according to the meeting summary instructions, the meeting took place on October 2, 2026. All items on the agenda were designated as test items and no substantive business was conducted. Consent Calendar - The approval of minutes (Item 26-0925, "Test Meeting minutes") was listed but was a test placeholder. No vote was taken. Discussion Items - Item 26-0926: A test report with an extremely long caption was presented for informational purposes only. - Item 26-0927: A test ordinance was introduced. The agenda noted the possibility of a closed session under Wis. Stat. §19.85(1)(a) to deliberate a decision, but no closed session was held due to the test nature. - Item 26-0928: A test resolution proposing a doubling of pay for staff in the clerk's office was listed. The agenda noted possible closed session under Wis. Stat. §19.85(1)(g) to confer with legal counsel. - Item 26-0929: A test review of plans for expansion of the clerk's office was listed, also with a note about possible closed session for legal counsel consultation. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken and no decisions were made. The meeting was a test run of the Common Council's procedures. The meeting adjourned without taking any action.

The Finance & Personnel Committee met on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 6:01 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. All six members (Newberry, Janssen, Kahlow, Goggin, Sleznikow, Northwood) were present. The meeting adjourned at 6:55 PM. The committee considered 13 agenda items, including a public hearing, financial audits, and several resolutions. All items were recommended to the Common Council except item 26-0958, which was referred without recommendation. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public registered to speak on any agenda item. The public hearing for item 26-0297 (special assessment for non-compliant utility services on 33rd St S) was opened but no testimony was offered. Discussion Items - 26-0297 – Special Assessment for Non-Compliant Utility Services (33rd St S): This was the third and final pilot program to replace noncompliant laterals. Staff reported that final assessment numbers came in lower than preliminary estimates. The assessment covers only the portions in the right-of-way, based on per-lineal-foot cost. Property owners can choose a 10- or 15-year repayment on their tax bills starting in 2028. The utilities covered costs for street paving, curb, gutter, and sidewalk repairs. The committee voted unanimously to recommend adoption. - 26-0875 & 26-1016 – Financial Statements and Single Audit (as of December 31, 2025): Auditor Joe Haas of Hawkins Ash CPAs presented an overview of the city’s three annual audits (financial statement, federal single audit, state single audit). He explained that the city is required to have an audit due to its population (over 25,000) and its federal spending (over $1 million, with $15 million in federal awards in 2025, including $10 million in COVID-related funds). The audit resulted in an unmodified opinion with no internal control or compliance findings. The finance department prepared 135 items for the audit team. A material audit adjustment was made only for airport funds. Both reports were received and filed unanimously. - 26-0958 – Council Member Expense Accounts and Reimbursement Procedures: Councilmember Kahlow moved to refer the resolution to the full Common Council on October 6 without a recommendation, citing the importance of having all council members participate in the discussion. Councilmember Janssen expressed a preference for discussion at the committee level but did not object. The motion passed 5–1, with Janssen voting no. - 26-0968 – Sunset Lane Sanitary Sewer Easements: This resolution authorized the acquisition of sanitary sewer easements related to the Sunset Lane project. Approved unanimously. - 26-0970 – Reallocation of Funds for Water Utility Capital Equipment: Unused funds from completed capital purchases were reallocated to new equipment for the Water Utility. Approved unanimously. - 26-0991 – Repurpose Three Fleet Trucks for Water Utility: Three trucks scheduled for auction will instead be retained and repurposed as light-duty trucks for the Water Utility. Staff explained that increased operations (flushing, valve turning) required additional vehicles. The annual operating cost per truck (insurance, maintenance) is roughly $4,000, less than renting three trucks for six months ($2,000/truck). The trucks will be used year-round, including for hydrant thumping in winter. The water utility’s budget covers all costs. The resolution passed 5–1, with Chair Goggin voting no. - 26-0992 – Scope Change at 16th & State Streets (CIP 2026 159): Director Gallagher noted that the revised cost for the raised intersections (for traffic calming) was $90,000, not the originally estimated $60,000. Councilmember Northwood moved to amend the resolution to reflect $90,000. The amendment passed unanimously, and the resolution as amended was adopted unanimously. Councilmember Sleznikow noted that residents had expressed concerns about speeding and pedestrian safety. - 26-1009 – Contract Extension with ASI Flex for Section 125 Plan Administration: Director Franzen explained that the one-year extension aligns the contract with other benefits renewals. There is no fee increase for the city. The committee approved the extension unanimously. - 26-1030 – Amendment to GO Promissory Notes Borrowing (increase to $13,805,000): Staff reported that the municipal bond market had risen about 1% over the prior 30 days, making it unlikely that bids would come in under the previously approved 5% true interest cost (TIC) ceiling. The requested amendment raises the TIC cap to 6.25% to provide cushion. City officials plan to sell the notes within two to three weeks. The increased debt service is estimated at $20,000–$30,000 per year, which can be addressed through a budget amendment in November. The resolution passed unanimously. - 26-1032 – Flood Risk Management Project with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Director Gallagher announced that the assistant secretary of the Army approved a federal interest determination on September 15, allowing a three-year $3 million study (50-50 cost share, city share $1.5 million). The study will assess current levee conditions (last assessed in 1975) and consider five alternatives for flood mitigation. It will also unlock eligibility for future federal grants. The resolution passed unanimously. - 26-1033 – CPI-Based Sewer Utility Rate Adjustment for 2027: The resolution authorizes a 4% CPI-based increase for sanitary sewer rates, effective potentially November 1, 2026 (two months early) to meet Clean Water Fund loan requirements. Estimated impact: fixed rate increase of about $0.95 over three months ($0.30/month) and consumption rate increase of about $0.08 per unit. The resolution passed unanimously. - 26-0001 – Collective Bargaining Update: The committee did not take action and did not go into closed session. Key Outcomes | Item | Description | Vote | Action | |------|-------------|------|--------| | 26-0297 | Special assessment – 33rd St S | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-0875 | Financial Statements (2025) | 6-0 | Received and filed | | 26-0958 | Council expense accounts | 5-1 (Janssen no) | Referred without recommendation | | 26-0968 | Sunset Lane easements | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-0970 | Water utility capital reallocation | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-0991 | Repurpose fleet trucks | 5-1 (Goggin no) | Recommended to adopt | | 26-0992 | 16th & State scope change (amended) | 6-0 (amendment) then 6-0 (as amended) | Recommended to adopt as amended | | 26-1009 | ASI Flex contract extension | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-1016 | Single Audit (2025) | 6-0 | Received and filed | | 26-1030 | GO Notes borrowing amendment | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-1032 | Flood risk management agreement | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-1033 | Sewer rate adjustment | 6-0 | Recommended to adopt | | 26-0001 | Collective bargaining | N/A | No action | Note: All recommendations are for the Common Council meeting on October 6, 2026.

The Judiciary & Administration Committee of the City of La Crosse met on September 29, 2026 at 6:01 PM in Council Chambers. All seven members were present. The committee reviewed a police quarterly alcohol license report, charter ordinance amendments, license applications, a property rezoning for a community center, a youth hockey special event alcohol license expansion, and a final plat in the city's extraterritorial jurisdiction. All agenda items were recommended to the Common Council by unanimous votes. Discussion Items - Quarterly Alcohol License Review (Item 26-0943): Captain Wanger, filling in for Sergeant Montahano, presented the second quarter police report. Key points included: - Tequilas and COIS were in compliance after license non-renewal; Chuck's was in compliance during a 10-day suspension and is working on TIPS training. - Rolling Trees is under active investigation for selling tobacco/vape products without a state license; a search warrant was executed, and the owner was arrested on a signature bond. - Compliance checks on June 2-3 and September 10-11 found failures at Moxie's, Senor Via Bens, O'Reilly's, Dells, Artie's, Flip Side, Moxie, State Room, John's Bar, Corner Bar, and Legends. Some were repeat offenders already under action plans. - A community education meeting on August 26, 2026 attracted over 30 attendees; the department plans to host such meetings twice a year. - A pamphlet on common alcohol violations for underage individuals and bar violations was distributed prior to Oktoberfest. - Total bar checks for the quarter: 131. Beer House and George Street Pub had the most calls for service. - Fourteen citations were issued for violations including public consumption, serving alcohol while intoxicated, and sale to underage persons. - The fine for possession of false IDs was increased: first offense now $575 (up from $376), second offense $701, third $1,016. The increase was within state statute and did not require council approval. - Captain Wanger noted that during Oktoberfest weekend, campus area (around UWL) had significant issues with thousands of students and party houses, requiring 18 dedicated officers. Data on citations and arrests was pending release. - Charter Ordinance (26-0894): A charter ordinance to amend various sections regarding appointment of department heads was discussed with no questions. Motion to recommend adoption carried unanimously. - Various License Applications (26-0943): The committee considered the October 2026-2027 license list and the quarterly review. Motion to approve subject to compliance carried unanimously. - Rezoning for Community Center (26-0944): An ordinance to rezone 1552 Kane Street from Single Family Residence to Public and Semi-Public District for use as a community center. Public hearing was opened; no one wished to speak but the applicant was available. The item was recommended by staff and approved unanimously by City Plan Commission. Motion to adopt carried unanimously. - River City Youth Hockey Special Event License (26-0979): Application for expansion of Class "B" Beer license for a special event on October 17, 2026 at Green Island Ice Arena (outdoor area). Motion to approve subject to compliance carried unanimously. - Final Plat of Featherstone Rise (26-0985): Final plat in Town of Shelby, within city's extraterritorial jurisdiction. Recommended for approval subject to requirements by engineering and fire departments. Motion carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - All five agenda items were recommended to the Common Council for its October 6, 2026 meeting, each with a unanimous 7-0 vote. - The police department will continue compliance checks, follow up on suspended establishments, and provide TIPS training for officers. - The fine increase for fake IDs is effective immediately and will be enforced both on- and off-premise under ordinance 4-1.

The Board of Public Works of La Crosse, Wisconsin, convened on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 10:00 AM in the Council Chambers of City Hall. The meeting was open for in-person attendance and also available via video conferencing. Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey, Tamra Dickinson, Erin Goggin, Matthew Gallager, and Andrea Trane were listed as members. The agenda included the call to order, roll call, approval of previous minutes, and a series of agenda items. No minutes or transcript were available to document the actual proceedings, public comments, discussions, or decisions made during the meeting. Discussion Items - 25-1199: Bidder's Proof of Responsibility. - 26-1013: Construction Contract Final Payments. - 26-1014: Utility Business Services Quarterly update and possible action on Sewer Study and Annual Adjustment. - 26-1018: Finding and Order to establish No Overnight Parking at the Eagle Watch Public Parking Lot located on the 2600 block of Rose Street. - 26-1019: Approval of TID 11 funds by Water and Street Department. - 26-0968: Resolution authorizing the acquisition of sanitary sewer easements related to the Sunset Lane Sanitary Sewer project. - 26-0970: Resolution to re-allocate unused funds from completed Capital purchases and/or projects to newly requested capital equipment purchases for the Water Utility. - 26-0991: Resolution to re-purpose three fleet trucks that were to be sold in the standard capital equipment cycle, and retain and re-purpose as light duty trucks for the Water Utility. - 26-0992: Resolution allocating unencumbered funds for scope change at 16th & State Streets to CIP project 2026 159. - 25-1453: Presentation: Utilities Business Services Quarterly Update. - Adjournment Key Outcomes No decisions, votes, or outcomes were recorded in the available materials. The meeting agenda was presented as listed above, but without minutes or a transcript, the actions taken on each item cannot be confirmed.

The Board of Public Works met at 10:00 AM in Council Chambers on September 28, 2026, to consider a range of routine approvals, a new overnight parking restriction, resolutions for utility equipment and funding, and a quarterly business services update with two rate-related actions. All votes were unanimous (5‑0). Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – The minutes of September 21, 2026, were approved (motion by Trane, second by Dickinson). - 25‑1199: Bidder’s Proof of Responsibility – Approved without discussion (motion by Goggin, second by Dickinson). - 26‑1013: Construction Contract Final Payments – Approved without discussion (motion by Gallager, second by Dickinson). Discussion Items - 26‑1018: No Overnight Parking at Eagle Watch Lot – The board established a restriction on overnight parking (10 PM to 6 AM) at the Eagle Watch public parking lot (2600 block of Rose Street). Staff explained the change, requested by the police department, aims to improve safety after incidents of late‑night motorcycle gatherings, racing, and a fatal crash. Council President Dickinson noted a recent fatality as an example. The restriction is consistent with other city facilities. - 26‑1019: Approval of TID 11 Funds for Water & Street Department – The board approved using TID 11 funds to replace 10 ADA‑compliant bubbler water fountains (part of a prior council‑approved project). Staff clarified that the work will be done in‑house by the water utility and street department, at a cost significantly lower than originally budgeted. Coordination with upcoming state construction on 3rd and 4th Streets was discussed. - 26‑0968: Sanitary Sewer Easements for Sunset Lane Project – A resolution of necessity authorizing the acquisition of easements (potentially via eminent domain) for a sanitary sewer extension serving three lots north of Sunset Lane. Staff explained the lots need reconnection after a demolition; the new main would run through the rear of the properties. - 26‑0970: Reallocation of Unused Capital Funds for Forklift – The board approved reallocating funds from completed capital purchases to buy a propane‑powered forklift for the water utility’s new building. Staff indicated this would allow safe indoor maneuvering (unlike the existing wheel loader) and that purchasing now saved $2,500 and 13 weeks of lead time. - 26‑0991: Repurpose Three Fleet Trucks as Light Duty Vehicles – Rather than selling three aging trucks (≈10 years old, 120,000 miles each) through the normal cycle, the board approved retaining them for lighter tasks such as flushing and valve turning. Staff estimated retaining each truck costs $4,000/year in maintenance versus $2,000/month rental if they were sold, making retention more cost‑effective. - 26‑0992: Unencumbered Funds for 16th & State Streets Scope Change – The board approved adding unencumbered CIP funds to construct a raised intersection at 16th and State Streets this year, leveraging a bid that came in under budget and avoiding future rework. - 25‑1453: Utilities Business Services Quarterly Update (Presentation) – Staff presented the September 2026 quarterly report, which covered a new online water rate comparison calculator (launching in weeks), software improvements to replace a 1998 billing system (go‑live July 2027), and a detailed explanation of how sewer, stormwater, and water rates are set and approved. Key statistics included: - $620 billion estimated need over 20 years for water infrastructure and another $620 billion for wastewater nationwide. - Approximately $11,500 per week spent on chemicals to meet low‑level phosphorus requirements at the wastewater treatment plant. - The water utility’s last rate case (authorized by the PSC) took effect October 1, 2026; the earliest eligibility for an inflationary adjustment is May 1, 2028. - 26‑1014: Sewer Rate Study and Annual Adjustment – Staff presented two requests related to the sewer utility: 1. Approval of a 4% sewer utility rate adjustment based on the June‑to‑June CPI, with an effective date of either December 1, 2026 or January 1, 2027, to align with Clean Water Fund loan requirements. 2. Authorization to engage Trilogy Consulting for a comprehensive sewer rate study, using two years of post‑upgrade operational data, with results to be brought back to the board in 2027. Both items were approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All agenda items were approved unanimously (5‑0). - The board approved the sewer rate study (motion by Gallager, second by Dickinson) and the 4% annual sewer rate adjustment (motion by Gallager, second by Dickinson). - The next meeting will likely receive the sewer study findings in 2027.

The La Crosse City Plan Commission met on Monday, September 28, 2026 at 4:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, a public hearing and vote on a rezoning for a community center, approval of a final plat for a 36-lot subdivision, and a detailed presentation on the ongoing zoning code update project. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote with a motion and second. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 26-0944 – Rezoning of 1552 Kane Street: Dick Schwanson, a board member of the North Side Neighborhood Center, Inc., spoke in favor of the rezoning. He stated he was born on the north side in 1941 and lived there for over 60 years. He distributed brochures describing the proposed community center and requested the commission's support. Discussion Items - 26-0944 – Rezoning for Community Center: Staff presented an ordinance to rezone 1552 Kane Street from Single Family Residence District to Public and Semi-Public District. The North Branch library closed in June 2025 and was declared surplus. In July, the Economic and Community Development Commission issued an RFP, selecting a proposal from the North Side Neighborhood Center, Inc. in August. The proposed uses include meeting rooms, museum exhibits, performance and rehearsal space, reading room, and computer lab. Commissioner Elaine Yager recused herself. The commission heard public comment (see above). A motion to adopt the ordinance was made by Councilmember Aron Newberry and seconded, passing unanimously. - 26-0985 – Final Plat of Featherstone Rise: Staff recommended approval of the final plat for Featherstone Rise subdivision in the Town of Shelby. The proposal subdivides four existing parcels into 36 residential lots and one outlot for a park. Preliminary plat was approved earlier in 2026. The Town of Shelby approved the plat on August 18, 2026, and La Crosse County Planning Resources & Development Committee approved it on August 31, 2026. Developer representative Grant Ducotch of Cell Engineering confirmed that DOA comments are minor and being addressed. A motion to approve was made by Commissioner Yager, seconded by Commissioner Olivia Stine, with the explicit condition that approval is subject to any conditions required by the engineering and fire departments. The motion passed unanimously. - 25-0143 – Update on Zoning/Subdivision Code Project: Staff (likely Director Tim and Jenna) delivered a presentation on the proposed new zoning districts and standards, which will be shown to neighborhood groups in upcoming meetings. Key points included: - Residential Districts: Reduction from six to four residential-only districts: Open Space/Reserve (replacing agricultural), Mobile Home Residential, Fringe Residential (replacing General Residential, allowing single-family and duplexes), and Neighborhood Residential (majority of city, allowing up to fourplexes and accessory dwelling units). Density tied to lot size: 2,500–10,000 sq ft for 1 unit, 5,000+ for 2 units, 7,000+ for 3 units, 8,000+ for 4 units. Form-based elements require gables, porches, and garage setbacks. - Commercial/Mixed-Use Districts: Neighborhood Mixed Use (up to 45 ft height, 50% transparency), Urban Mixed Use (up to 55 ft), and Commercial Corridor (no residential). Small-scale commercial up to 2,500 sq ft allowed in Neighborhood Residential. - Institutional District: Proposed for five major institutions (hospitals and colleges), requiring submission of a master plan for council approval and annual reviews. - Other Districts: Development Flex District (replacing light industrial, allowing residential, office, and light industrial), Public Facilities and Parks, and Downtown District with enhanced form-based standards. - Conservancy District: Still under discussion with stakeholders. - Commissioner Yager shared positive feedback from a Rotary meeting regarding the zoning update. Commissioner Trost asked about the relationship to property tax base; staff responded that the primary goals are to modernize the code, respond to comprehensive plan feedback, and enable more housing options, not specifically to increase tax base. Key Outcomes - Item 26-0944 – Rezoning Approved: Ordinance to rezone 1552 Kane Street to Public and Semi-Public District passed unanimously (Commissioner Yager recused). The property will be used as a community center by North Side Neighborhood Center, Inc. A development agreement is expected in November. - Item 26-0985 – Final Plat Approved: Featherstone Rise final plat for 36 residential lots and one park lot approved unanimously, subject to conditions from engineering and fire departments. - Item 25-0143 – Zoning Code Update: Presentation received; no vote taken. Staff will continue neighborhood and stakeholder meetings. The draft zoning map and presentation materials will be posted on the Forward La Crosse website. Additional public meetings planned for November to allow interactive map feedback.

The Redevelopment Authority (RDA) of La Crosse, Wisconsin, met on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included updates on the River Point District, approvals of option extensions for Unwind Property Management, acceptance of $600,000 in city funding for urban renewal and public market predevelopment, approval of a certified survey map for Cowboy Jack's, and discussion of a TIF term sheet and a commercial lease in closed session. The meeting adjourned at 4:48 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (August 2026): Motion by Przytarski, seconded by Sigman, carried by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Damian Meza, representing Soccermunda, spoke on item 26-1015 (commercial lease at 65 Kraft St). He expressed appreciation for the RDA's work and provided updates on remodeling plans for ADA accessibility and HVAC units at both 65 and 67 Kraft Street. He noted that architectural plans had been submitted but not yet provided to city inspections, pending lease agreement. Discussion Items - Monthly Update from Project Manager on River Point District (Item 26-1002): Project Manager Jason Gilman reported on administrative progress for spring 2027 construction, including geotechnical issues, TIF application processes, and coordination with developers (RaiKey on Lot 11, Unwind on Lots 1 and 2). He mentioned a prospective commercial tenant tour, ongoing work on a renter equity program with a focus on accounting hurdles, and meetings with Baker Tilly, Ernst & Young, Wipfli, the Idea Fund, and Marine Credit Union. He also noted a meeting with WIDA and distribution of a promotional video. Gilman attended a ULI technical advisory panel in the Fox Cities, where the River Point District model was cited as a desired model. He updated the Gantt chart and raised concerns about diesel fuel potentially affecting supply chains in 2027. He also mentioned a new WEDC housing and business tax credit program under review. - First Extension to Option to Purchase Agreement for Lot 1 – Unwind Property Management (Item 26-0997): Staff explained the standard 12-month extension (following a six-month initial option). Unwind plans to start townhouse construction on Lot 1 in spring 2027, delayed from fall 2026 due to the TIF application process. Motion to approve by Janssen, seconded by Przytarski, carried by voice vote. - First Extension to Option to Purchase Agreement for Lot 2 – Unwind Property Management (Item 26-0998): Similar extension for Lot 2, with phase two construction expected in fall 2027. Motion by Janssen, seconded by Przytarski, carried by voice vote. - Resolution Accepting Funding from City of La Crosse for Urban Renewal Activities (Item 26-0988): Andrea (staff) presented a resolution accepting $600,000 transferred from TID 11 to the RDA for urban renewal projects, including predevelopment work for a public market. She reviewed previous studies (feasibility, site location, business plan from 2017-2019) and noted that the funds could be redirected to other urban renewal projects if the public market does not proceed. A memorandum of understanding between the city and RDA governs use of funds. A proposal for a Project for Public Spaces review of the studies is anticipated next month. Motion by Janssen, seconded by Sigman, carried by voice vote. - Monthly Financial Update (Item 26-0946): Andrea reported that the September financials were attached with no specific items to highlight. - Approval of Certified Survey Map for Cowboy Jack's (Item 26-1001): Andrea explained that the CSM would create a separate parcel from city park property adjacent to Lot 11, to be later conveyed to the RDA and combined with the Cowboy Jack's parcel. The submittal was approved contingent on staff working out details with city engineering. Motion by Ostrem, seconded by Przytarski, carried by voice vote. - Term Sheet for TIF Assistance to Capital Investment Partners for Cowboy Jack's (Item 26-1000): Staff noted that the Economic Development Commission (ECDC) unanimously approved the term sheet the previous evening. The RDA's role is specifically to agree to the land sale price, which is consistent with other River Point District sales. The item went into closed session for negotiation strategy. After closed session, a motion to approve was made by Ostrem, seconded by Przytarski, and carried by voice vote with Janssen voting against. - Commercial Lease Agreement for 65 Kraft St (Item 26-1015): Public comment was heard from Damian Meza. The item went into closed session for negotiation strategy. After closed session, a motion to approve was made by Janssen, seconded by Sigman, and carried by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Option Extensions Approved: Unwind Property Management received 12-month extensions on option agreements for both Lot 1 and Lot 2 at River Point District. - Funding Accepted: The RDA accepted $600,000 from the City for urban renewal activities, including public market predevelopment work, and approved the corresponding MOU. - Certified Survey Map Approved: Submittal of the CSM for Cowboy Jack's was approved contingent on staff coordination. - TIF Term Sheet Approved: The term sheet for TIF assistance to Capital Investment Partners for Cowboy Jack's was approved (voice vote, with Janssen dissenting). - Commercial Lease Approved: The commercial lease agreement for 65 Kraft St was approved (voice vote). - Next Steps: Staff will bring a proposal for a public market predevelopment study in October 2026; the land sale price for River Point District parcels will be reviewed in January 2027; Cowboy Jack's parcel conveyance to the RDA is expected to go to the city council in November 2026. Note: Items 26-1000 and 26-1015 were discussed in closed session pursuant to Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e) for negotiation strategies, then voted on in open session.

Note: The agenda listed the meeting as Tuesday, September 22, 2026, but per the user instruction, this summary uses the date September 23, 2026. The Common Council of La Crosse, Wisconsin held a special meeting to discuss municipal organization and leadership models. The meeting featured presentations from Dr. Jeremy Arney (UWL political science professor) and consultants Jay Shambo and Jess Wildes of Innovative Public Advisors, followed by council deliberation on the city's current structure and potential changes. Discussion Items - Presentations on Organizational Models: The consultants outlined five common structures: Chief of Staff, Administrative Coordinator, Director of Operations, City Manager (Chapter 64), and City Administrator (Chapter 62). National data from ICMA showed that 75% of responding U.S. cities with populations over 5,000 have a chief appointed official, with 53% of cities 5,000+ and 62% of cities 50,000+ employing professional management. In Wisconsin, 129 of 190 cities (68%) have either an administrator or manager, with 117 administrators and 12 managers. - Current Challenges Identified by Council Members: Multiple council members cited a lack of clear lines of authority, inconsistent accountability among department heads, and insufficient continuity across elections as key problems. Council member Goggin emphasized the need for a single point of supervision for department heads. Council member Trost noted that department heads sometimes disengage from political chaos, and council member Weston highlighted the difficulty of holding the mayor accountable for policy implementation. Council member Stine pointed to the value of professional management for grant-seeking and long-term planning. - Comparison of Models: Council members debated the merits of a City Administrator (reporting to the full council) versus a Chief of Staff or Director of Operations (reporting to the mayor). Mayor Washington-Spivey expressed interest in a Director of Operations as a cost-effective, less disruptive alternative that supports the existing mayor-council structure. Council member Dickinson questioned the salary ranges for different positions and how they are determined. Council member Newberry raised concerns about the political vulnerability of positions created by simple ordinance versus charter ordinance. - Budget and Transition Concerns: Several council members, including Janssen and Goggin, emphasized that the primary barrier to a City Administrator is the cost (estimated around $200,000) and the difficulty of justifying new spending while requiring department cuts. Consultant Jay Shambo argued the position often pays for itself through grants and efficiencies, but council members requested concrete financial projections. Council member Mindel asked about the timeline for visible positive changes, and the consultants noted incremental improvements would begin immediately but full transformation takes time. Key Outcomes - Motion Passed (20:20): Council member Weston moved to direct the finance team, under the mayor's direction, to develop cost scenarios for multiple position options (City Administrator, Director of Operations, Chief of Staff, etc.) for the 2027 and 2028 operating budgets (and possibly 2029). The motion passed unanimously (voice vote, no opposition recorded). - Next Steps: Council members requested that the financial analysis be distributed before any further meetings. Council member Stine asked for specific written proposals for each option, rather than continuing general discussion. Council member Janssen advocated for interim solutions before the next mayoral election, while maintaining interest in a future City Administrator. A follow-up meeting will be scheduled after the financial report is available. - Future Engagement: Council member Jenssen requested that department heads be included in future discussions; Mayor Washington-Spivey noted many were present as observers and would be invited to participate moving forward.

The Economic and Community Development Commission (ECDC) met on September 23, 2026, at 3:03 PM in La Crosse City Hall. The meeting included discussion and votes on budget revisions, deed restriction suspensions, TIF assistance, housing rehabilitation policies, and reallocation of public service funds. The meeting adjourned in closed session at 4:24 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from the previous meeting was moved by Erin Goggin, seconded by Linda Lee, and carried by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Parenting Place representatives: Audrey Weezer Larson (Early Care and Education Director) and Kim Wagner (Child Care Development Coordinator) presented the budget revision request, noting stronger uptake from provider community and weaker interest from business community. They stated the revision better addresses community needs. - Kaylee Coutil (homeowner of 1701 Prospect St): Expressed gratitude for her home and requested a temporary suspension of the owner-occupied deed restriction to allow renting while she pursues dental hygiene education out of state. She committed to maintaining affordability and returning to La Crosse. - Jason Larson (Executive Director, St. Clare Health Mission): Spoke in support of receiving the $30,183.05 reallocation for the Total Navigation Team (TNT) program, highlighting that 100% of funds go to rental/security deposit assistance and that TNT serves as the prevention arm for Pathways Home. He stated frustration that the organization was not initially funded despite its focus on housing. Discussion Items - 26-0989: Budget Revision for the Parenting Place Staff recommended approval, stating the revision reflects the original ARPA intent and benefits the program. The revision reallocates funds from business outreach to provider support due to low business engagement and high provider interest. - 26-1008: Suspension of Deed Restriction for 1701 Prospect St Staff (Jonah) presented the request from Kaylee Coutil, who needs to temporarily leave La Crosse for education. Discussion included concerns about precedent, monitoring rent, insurance, and income checks for renters. Commissioner Padesky proposed requiring HUD eligibility for renters. Commissioner Goggin proposed a three-year term with option to extend. - 26-1000: TIF Assistance Term Sheet for Cowboy Jack’s at River Point District Staff (Andrea Train) presented the project, noting that the developer (CapVest) is partnering with Rai Key to develop on a single lot due to concrete obstacles on adjacent parcel. TIF assistance is based on increment generated; solar panels are part of the gap. Commissioner Markussen asked about risk if restaurant fails; staff explained annual look-back and PILOT obligations. The term sheet was approved without closed session. - 26-0994: Housing Rehabilitation Policy & Procedures Update Staff presented a condensed 23-page policy allowing non-income-eligible repairs when funding sources permit, to use TID funds for market-rate repairs. Commissioner Markussen asked about sub-recipients; staff indicated this may come back with an RFP. The policy was approved. - 26-0995: Review of Housing Rehab Request for Proposals (RFP) Staff introduced the RFP making $250,000 annually available starting 2027 for housing rehabilitation. The city aims to work with a sub-recipient. Discussion included the need to serve households at 80-120% AMI and floodplain issues. No action required; RFP will be posted. - 26-0990: Reallocation of 2026 Public Service Funds Staff reported $30,183.05 available, with five responses from applicants (including three already funded). After hearing from Jason Larson, the commission moved into closed session to deliberate. Key Outcomes - 26-0989 (Parenting Place budget revision): Approved unanimously by voice vote. - 26-1008 (Deed restriction suspension): Approved with amendments: (1) three-year suspension with option to extend an additional three years, (2) renters must meet HUD eligibility requirements. Motion carried unanimously. - 26-1000 (TIF term sheet for Cowboy Jack’s): Approved unanimously as presented. - 26-0994 (Housing Rehabilitation Policy): Approved unanimously. - 26-0995 (RFP review): No action; staff to proceed with posting. - 26-0990 (Public Service Funds reallocation): Following closed session, a motion by Goggin, seconded by Markussen, to allocate the entire $30,183.05 to St. Clare Health Mission was carried by voice vote.