Public Meetings - La Crosse, Wisconsin

This special meeting, called by Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey, convened at 4:00 PM and adjourned at 6:06 PM in the Council Chambers. The sole agenda item was a review of the city's efforts to address homelessness. Twelve council members were present (one excused: Lisa Weston). Council Member Newberry was excused at 5:05 PM, leaving 11 members; Council Member Kahlow excused at 5:25 PM, leaving 10 members. The meeting featured remarks from council members, a presentation from Michael Basford of the Wisconsin Department of Administration's Interagency Council on Homelessness, and updates from city staff including Brian Sampson (Homeless Services Coordinator), Police Chief Kudron, Dan Trussoni (Parks, Recreation, and Forestry), Jessica Skemp (Municipal Judge), Andrea Trane (Planning), and Jay Odegaard (Director of Public Works). Council Member Remarks - Council members from each district reported on conditions in their areas. Districts 1, 4, 5, 10, 11, and 13 reported relatively low direct impacts, while Districts 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, and 9 described significant quality-of-life issues: public drug use, nudity, theft, litter, and safety concerns in parks, near the library, and around downtown. Council Member Janssen (District 3) noted that many residents feel safety has declined, citing incidents such as syringes filled with black tar heroin found in traffic circles and parks. Council Member Kahlow (District 6) stated that more than 60 individuals have declined housing through Pathways Home or were unable to remain housed, and that La Crosse has become a destination for individuals from other counties and states. Council Member Newberry (District 9) observed that shuffling people from parks to churches to streets has not worked and that the concentration of individuals is a key problem. Council Member Northwood (District 13) argued that criminalization of homelessness has not solved the problem and called for compassion, evidence-based solutions, and respect for the dignity of unhoused people. Council Member Goggin (District 2) shared anecdotal evidence that individuals from out of state are being told they cannot be arrested for breaking the law if homeless, and she urged accountability for those preying on the homeless. Presentation by Michael Basford (State Interagency Council on Homelessness) - Basford provided statewide context: during the 2026 point-in-time count, unsheltered homelessness was reported in 38 of Wisconsin's 72 counties. Wisconsin counted 5,243 people experiencing homelessness (476 unsheltered), compared to Illinois (14,576, 2,074 unsheltered), Michigan (10,155, 1,716 unsheltered), Minnesota (8,392, 1,821 unsheltered), and Iowa (2,816, 611 unsheltered). The Interagency Council on Homelessness spends about $5 million per year on programs, compared to Illinois ($300 million) and Minnesota ($500 million). The Evers administration's funding increase requests have been zeroed out by the legislature over the last two budgets. Basford praised the Pathways Home plan as one of the best local plans in Wisconsin. He identified the largest factor in homelessness as a shortage of affordable rental homes for extremely low-income households (a shortage of nearly 118,000 units in Wisconsin). He recommended five solutions: (1) invest in public housing and the National Housing Trust Fund, (2) reform zoning and land use regulations, (3) expand rental assistance or create a refundable renters tax credit, (4) create permanent tools like emergency rental assistance (citing the pandemic-era success of $330 million in federal funds that kept 65,000 households out of eviction), and (5) reform the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. He urged council members to advocate to state legislators for increased funding. City Staff Presentations - Brian Sampson (Homeless Services Coordinator): The city is becoming the lead agency for a state grant of $219,000 for shelter and prevention funding. Outreach has been ramped up: the county now has two social workers doing targeted outreach five days a week, often twice daily, in the downtown area. A deflection social worker co-responds with the NRO unit to address both safety and service needs. A coordinated campaign offers three options: shelter spots at Salvation Army, connection to mental health or substance abuse treatment, and housing with supportive services. Since 2024, 88% of those housed through the Pathways Home program remain housed. Of the 83% of people on the Pathways to Housing list whose last address was in La Crosse County, the city works to reconnect out-of-town individuals to their support systems. Sampson disputed the notion that the city is doing nothing, stating that the city is actively coordinating multiple efforts. - Chief Kudron (Police Department): Concentrated activity has been around parks, the library, and the church near Division Street. The department uses a tiered approach: assessment, engagement, and enforcement when necessary. The goal this year was to avoid closing parks. The NRO unit is in parks daily, building relationships. Enforcement is used for behaviors that cross the threshold, but the department recognizes that the courts are not the sole solution. - Dan Trussoni (Parks, Recreation, and Forestry): The department faces daily challenges: cleaning abandoned encampments, dealing with clogged bathrooms (75 instances at Riverside Park alone this year, leading to removal of paper towels), theft of supplies, and refunding shelter reservations due to intoxicated or belligerent individuals. Operational changes include adjusting park hours (11 p.m. to 9 p.m.) and installing a split rail fence at Cameron Park. Trussoni emphasized that parks cannot solve homelessness through operations alone and need resources and support. - Jessica Skemp (Municipal Judge): Approximately 20-30% of individuals ordered to appear in municipal court have no permanent address. The vast majority do not appear, leading to default judgments and accumulating fines that create financial and psychological barriers. For those who do appear, the court attempts to structure judgments that promote accountability and connect individuals to services. The court participates in the La Crosse Police Department's Operation Clean Slate program to quash warrants for those demonstrating progress. - Andrea Trane (Planning): Housing developments include the Collective on Fourth (62 units, 12 set aside for unsheltered, 11 of 12 renewing leases), 12 ARPA-funded units through Couleecap, and planned units at Karuna (though goals may not be met). The Pathways Held Leases program, funded by a $100,000 Mayo Clinic grant, is expected to sign four leases this month. Two Low-Income Housing Tax Credit projects were awarded: redevelopment of Lincoln Middle School (51 units, 25 with rental assistance) and another project. The city is exploring partnerships with developers using TIF to include held leases. Trane noted that the city cannot build housing alone and needs partnership with other municipalities, as many unhoused individuals come from outside La Crosse. - Jay Odegaard (Director of Public Works): Odegaard stressed that the daily problems on the ground are real and often lost in debates about criminalization. He cited examples: the city received no responses to an RFP to run Houska Park, and had to beg Julie McDermott to run the O'Connell Lodge. He described the burden on staff: cleaning human feces from bathrooms, removing 33 propane tanks from floodwaters, and dealing with federal and state fines for debris entering waterways. He urged the council to focus on practical solutions rather than ideological arguments. Discussion & Key Outcomes - Council Member Janssen asked what resources are needed; Odegaard replied that the answer is not financial resources but a clear focus on the daily problems. Council Member Padesky requested a breakdown of costs associated with these efforts, especially for the upcoming budget. Council Member Goggin and others emphasized the need for honest, blunt conversations and for the public to understand the full scope of the issue. Council Member Northwood noted that December 21 is National Homeless Persons Memorial Day, and that people die every year from homelessness in La Crosse. - Mayor Washington-Spivey stated that the city is not doing nothing and that both sides—those feeling unsafe and those seeking compassion—are valid. She announced that a Pathways Home update will be presented on September 8, 2026, with the county and city. The meeting concluded with a call for continued conversation and for other municipalities to step up. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or resolutions were taken. The meeting was informational and exploratory. - Council members expressed a desire for continued dialogue, more detailed cost data, and a focus on evidence-based solutions (housing + services) as outlined in Pathways Home. - A Pathways Home update is scheduled for September 8, 2026. - The mayor will distribute the library director's written report on the library's role in the coordinated response to homelessness.

The Board of Public Works met on August 17, 2026, at 10:00 AM in City Hall. All five members were present. The meeting covered routine approvals of minutes, construction contracts, street privilege permits, and a payment list, as well as a referral of the Fire Station 3 project bid. Consent Calendar - Minutes of August 10, 2026 – Approved unanimously (motion by Goggin, second by Trane). - Construction Contract Change Orders (26-0834) – Approved unanimously (5-0). - Construction Contract Final Payments (26-0835) – Approved unanimously (5-0). - Xcel Energy Street Privilege Permit (26-0828) – For a chain link fence at 403 Car Street; approved unanimously (5-0) after Dawn Schultz spoke. - Metronet Street Privilege Permit (26-0846) – For fiber optic conduit at 1011 East Ave S; approved unanimously (5-0). - SJR Utilities Street Privilege Permit (26-0847) – For fiber optic conduit at 700 West Avenue South; approved unanimously (5-0). - Netwal Dental Street Privilege Permit (26-0848) – For an air conditioning unit at 115 5th Avenue South; approved unanimously (5-0). - Approval of Payment List of ROW Acquisitions for Losey Blvd (26-0862) – Approved unanimously (5-0). Discussion Items - Fire Station 3 Project Bid (26-0863) – The board reviewed the bid. A motion by Washington-Spivey, seconded by Goggin, to refer the bid for further consideration carried unanimously (5-0). No additional discussion details were recorded. Key Outcomes - All consent items were approved without opposition. - The Fire Station 3 project bid was referred, not approved, for further review.

The Board of Zoning Appeals met on August 17, 2026, at 4:00 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall, 400 La Crosse Street, La Crosse, Wisconsin. The meeting was open for in-person attendance and available via livestream. Because meeting minutes and the raw transcript were not provided, this summary reflects only the published agenda and does not describe statements, testimony, or votes that may have occurred. Agenda Items - Call to Order and Roll Call. - Election of Vice Chair. - Appeal 2702: Variance appeal regarding the requirement to provide a minimum lot size of 7,200 square feet at 2652 George Street, La Crosse, Wisconsin. Property owners affected by the appeal could appear in person, by agent, or by attorney, and could express written approval or objection by filing a letter with the City Clerk or by testifying under oath. Written comments were encouraged to be submitted prior to the meeting. - Adjournment. Key Outcomes - No voting outcomes, decisions, or public comments are recorded in the available materials. The agenda lists the variance appeal for hearing but does not include a recommendation or decision.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary of proceedings, discussions, or outcomes is available.

The Finance & Personnel Committee met on August 10, 2026, to consider a lengthy agenda including the 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Budget (CIP), multiple special assessment resolutions, ARPA fund reallocation, a police camera donation, TID amendments, and closed session matters. The most contentious item was the CIP, which failed after amendments and debate. Several other items were approved unanimously or with one dissenting vote. Capital Improvement Budget (26-0499) - The committee considered the 2027-2031 CIP, which proposed $13.9 million in new debt for 2027. Deputy DeGure presented the debt service outlook, noting state and city debt limits. - Amendment 1 (Snowplow trucks): Councilmember Northwood moved to approve an amendment from the Public Works department to reallocate funds between truck types (one tandem and three singles instead of two tandems) to better match fleet needs. The amendment passed 4-2. - Amendment 2 (Hooska Park bathrooms): Councilmember Kahlow moved to add $175,000 in 2027 for repairs to the Hooska Park bathrooms, which have been inoperable since 2020. The Park Department recommended repairs over full replacement. The amendment passed unanimously. - Amendment 3 (Library parking lot removal): Councilmember Janssen moved to remove $200,000 for the library parking lot resurfacing, citing the need for spending restraint. The amendment passed 4-1. - Discussion: Councilmembers expressed concerns about the $600,000 placeholder for a Municipal Services Center study, the overall debt level, and future highway projects. Councilmember Kahlow indicated she might vote no to allow more time for discussion. - Final vote: The resolution to approve the 2027-2031 CIP failed, 2-4. Noncompliant Sewer Lateral Reconstruction (26-0664) - Director Gallagher explained the partial assessment for work on a shared lateral at 9th & Division. The utility covered road repairs; property owners were assessed only for pipe replacement. Approved unanimously. Parking System Assessment (26-0685) - The committee approved the annual downtown parking assessment of $187,325.50 for 2026. Councilmember Kahlow asked about revenue shortfalls; staff noted a one-time bad debt write-off and expected increased revenue from extended enforcement hours. Approved unanimously. Water Utility Annual Report (26-0699) - The report was received and filed. Approved unanimously. Clean Water Fund Loan (26-0700) - Resolution to declare intent to borrow for UV disinfection upgrade at the wastewater plant. The project is funded by utility funds, not general fund. Approved unanimously. TID 11 Amendment (26-0704) - Director Train explained the amendment allows TID 11 to serve as a donor TID for infrastructure improvements in TIDs 19 (former Kmart site) and 20 (Bridgeview Plaza). No impact on existing TID 11 commitments. Approved unanimously. ARPA Fund Reallocation (26-0731) - Staff explained reallocation of unspent ARPA funds from downtown tree planting to citywide tree planting, and floodplain study funds to administrative expenses. Councilmember Kahlow noted tree stumps downtown and hoped remaining funds could address trip hazards. Approved unanimously. Police Camera Donation (26-0738) - The La Crosse City Vision Foundation donated funds for additional security cameras (Safe Cam 2) in Riverside Park and River Point North. Police Department stated minimal city maintenance costs ($50/year per camera). Approved 5-1. Public Market Predevelopment (26-0739) - Resolution to allocate TID 11 funds to the Redevelopment Authority for updating the public market feasibility study. Director Train outlined the history and partnership model. Councilmember Janssen noted reservations but supported the study. Councilmember Kahlow emphasized need for downtown infrastructure maintenance. Approved unanimously. Noncompliant Utility Services (26-0751) - Public hearing held. Property owner Carl Green spoke in support, describing how the shared lateral delayed his home sale. He urged the city to better notify property owners of such issues. Resolution approved unanimously. Parking Assignment (26-0545) – Closed Session - After closed session, the committee voted to refer the resolution for 30 days. Unanimous. Town of Campbell Incorporation Appeal (26-0755) – Closed Session - Resolution authorizing funds for the appeal. Approved 5-1. Estoppel Certificate (26-0789) – Closed Session - Approved unanimously. State Farm Settlement (26-0800) – Closed Session - Approved unanimously. Collective Bargaining Update – Closed Session - The committee entered closed session; no further action reported. Key Outcomes - 2027-2031 CIP failed (2-4). Further discussion expected. - Multiple resolutions approved as noted above. - Public comment from Carl Green on sewer lateral issues.

The Board of Public Works met on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Council Chambers, City Hall. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey with all five members present. The board approved the minutes from August 3, 2026, and addressed three action items and one informational presentation. Discussion Items - Bidder's Proof of Responsibility (25-1191): No items were brought forward under this agenda item. - Request to Purchase Tag Trailer (26-0822): The Street Department requested approval to purchase a new tag trailer. A motion to approve was made by Erin Goggin, seconded by Matt Gallager, and carried unanimously (5-0). - Approval of ROW Acquisitions Payment List for Losey Blvd (26-0823): A motion to approve the payment list was made by Matt Gallager, seconded by Tamra Dickinson, and carried unanimously (5-0). - Water Utility Quarterly Update (25-1449): The Water Utility presented a quarterly update. This item was for presentation only, with no action taken. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The minutes from August 3, 2026, were approved unanimously. - Tag Trailer Purchase Approved: The Street Department's request to purchase a new tag trailer was approved (5-0). - ROW Acquisitions Payment List Approved: The payment list for Right-of-Way acquisitions on Losey Boulevard was approved (5-0). - Water Utility Update Received: The quarterly update from the Water Utility was presented; no action was taken. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 10:25 AM.

The City of La Crosse Climate Action Plan Steering Committee met on Monday, August 10, 2026, in the Eagle Room at City Hall, 400 La Crosse Street, La Crosse, WI. The agenda scheduled the meeting for 4:00 PM; the provided timestamp indicates 2026-08-10 10:15:00+00:00. The agenda listed roll call, approval of minutes, notices and discussion, outreach/engagement and grant services updates, next meeting/agenda items, and adjournment. No minutes or transcript were provided, so this summary is based solely on the agenda. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes was listed on the agenda, but no minutes document is available to confirm whether it was approved. Discussion Items - Agenda Item 26-0831: Outreach and Engagement Update, including a Communications Plan update. - Agenda Item 26-0832: Grant Services Update. - Next Meeting / Agenda Items: The committee was scheduled to discuss future meeting logistics and agenda topics. Adjournment - The agenda included adjournment after the next-meeting discussion; no specific time or action was recorded. Key Outcomes - Because no minutes or transcript were provided, no votes, motions, or detailed decisions can be confirmed. The meeting’s actionable items appear limited to receiving the outreach/engagement and grant services updates and planning the next meeting.

No transcript or minutes were provided for this meeting. The agenda included the following items: license applications, several ordinance amendments regarding zoning and land use, a resolution amending the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, a certified survey map, a resolution relocating a polling place, a resolution endorsing Bird City recognition, a charter ordinance to create an Office of City Administrator, a resolution approving a certified survey map with right-of-way dedication, an ordinance establishing a moratorium on data centers, and a certificate of a petition for direct legislation regarding a Citizens' Advisory Healthcare Action Committee which was short-circuited by the Mayor. No public comments, discussion, or decisions were recorded.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. No information is available to summarize.