La Crosse Judiciary & Administration Committee Meeting - March 3, 2026

The Judiciary & Administration Committee met on March 3, 2026 at 6:07 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting adjourned at 7:14 PM. All seven members were present (Councilmember Mindel arrived at 6:22 PM). The committee reviewed 12 agenda items, including routine license renewals, ordinance amendments, and a public hearing on a proposed mixed-use development at 2415 State Road.

Consent Calendar

• 26-0094: Various license applications (March 2025-2026). Approved unanimously to recommend to Common Council.
• 26-0095: Application of Twilight Medical Transport LLC for 2026 Public Vehicle for Hire License. Approved subject to compliance (pending insurance documents), unanimous.
• 26-0121: Ordinance amending fee schedule for building, plumbing, electrical, HVAC and erosion control permits. Approved unanimously after staff explanation.
• 26-0123: Ordinance adopting current State of Wisconsin National Fuel Gas Code. Approved unanimously.
• 26-0126: Resolution approving 2026 Joint Powers Agreement for County 9-1-1 Emergency System. Approved unanimously.
• 26-0127: Ordinance creating Chapter 46 regarding Fire Suppression System Coordination and Testing. Approved unanimously after explanation by Superintendent Griebon.
• 26-0186: Ordinance amending retail cigarette, tobacco products, and electronic vaping devices licensing and minimum age. Approved unanimously.
• 26-0196: Ordinance amending alcohol regulations, licensing requirements and municipal sales in City parks. Approved unanimously.

Public Comments & Testimony

• 26-0143 – Mixed-Use Development at 2415 State Road: A public hearing was held with four speakers.
  • Timothy Koterwski (La Crosse resident) expressed opposition due to increased traffic at an already dangerous intersection and loss of sunset views.
  • Steven Geier (La Crosse resident, backyard adjacent to site) opposed, citing invasion of privacy from a building within 50-60 feet of lot line, increased traffic, and safety concerns with angled parking on Farnham Street.
  • Barb Clark (La Crosse resident, 30 years) expressed concern but not outright opposition, noting the project has stalled since 2017, questioning developer commitment, and asking the council to address underground springs, traffic, and potential for further delays.
  • Ellie McLoone (La Crosse resident, co-president of Bluffside Neighborhood Association) raised concerns about traffic, emergency vehicle access, lack of transparency from developer, and changes in building height (from original three stories to five) and parcel split.
  • Two individuals registered in support but did not speak.

Discussion Items

• 26-0133 – Rezoning for Rental Units at 1402/1410 Gillette Street and 1552 Loomis Street: The applicant was present. Vice Chair Trost noted that the Plan Commission recommended a 60-day referral to allow the applicant to pursue a variance with the Board of Zoning Appeals. The committee followed that recommendation, moving to refer for 60 days, which passed unanimously.
• 26-0143 – Mixed-Use Development at 2415 State Road (continued after public hearing): The developer (Jeremy) addressed concerns, stating the project follows city plans, the height has been five stories since 2022, density increased due to rising interest rates. He provided statistics: approximately 247 residences (33 townhomes, 52 studios, 114 one-bedroom, 73 two-bedroom, 8 three-bedroom), 20,000 sq ft commercial space, total project cost $63 million, estimated assessed value $50 million. He argued traffic demand would be reduced 50-60% compared to former Kmart. Councilmember Padesky questioned about utilities (lift station), privacy buffers, on-street parking, and past representations. Councilmember Weston asked about commercial tenant commitments (one lease ready for execution contingent on approvals) and outdoor amenities. Vice Chair Trost expressed strong support, emphasizing housing needs and alignment with city plans. The committee voted 6-1 to recommend adoption to Common Council, with Councilmember Padesky abstaining.
• 26-0144 – Certified Survey Map and right-of-way dedication: The Plan Commission had referred it for 30 days. The committee followed suit, referring for 30 days, unanimous.
• 26-0171 – Nuisance Abatement of Drug and Gang Houses: City attorney explained the proposed amendment removes language from Sec. 30-3(e) that could imply Fair Housing Act violations, based on federal DOJ guidance. She noted no actual discrimination in La Crosse but recommended elimination to avoid potential lawsuits. Councilmember Trost initially voted yes by mistake and later changed to no. The motion carried 6-1, with Trost voting no.

Key Outcomes

• All items were either recommended for adoption to the Common Council (approval) or referred for further consideration.
• 26-0094, 26-0095, 26-0121, 26-0123, 26-0126, 26-0127, 26-0186, 26-0196: Recommended to Common Council.
• 26-0133: Referred for 60 days.
• 26-0143: Recommended to Common Council (6-1, Padesky abstained).
• 26-0144: Referred for 30 days.
• 26-0171: Recommended to Common Council (6-1, Trost no).
• Meeting adjourned at 7:14 PM.