Public Meetings - Waukesha, Wisconsin

The City of Waukesha Parks, Recreation and Forestry Board met on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. The board approved the 2026 summer recreation program fees, pool program fees, and a revised aquatic facility group admission application. All votes were unanimous. Staff provided updates on summer preparations, program participation statistics, and ongoing capital projects. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (ID26-03070): The draft minutes from the February 16, 2026 board meeting were approved unanimously (6-0). Discussion Items - Item A – 2026 Summer Recreation Program Fees (ID26-03178): Staff presented the proposed fee schedule for summer 2026, which includes a total of 635 program offerings: 457 youth classes, 126 adult classes, 42 classes for ages 55+, and 10 family classes. Most fees remained unchanged; contractual programs saw minor increases (e.g., Tree Climb – 6%, Skyhawks – 1%). The board approved the fee schedule unanimously (7-0). - Item B – 2026 Pool Program, Season and Fees (ID26-03179): Staff reported strong pool pass sales and outlined adjustments including new cabana rentals and reformatted pool party packages (basic and ultimate at Buckner facility). No other significant fee changes were proposed. The board approved the pool fee schedule unanimously (7-0). - Item C – Revision to Aquatic Facility Group Admission Application (ID26-03180): Staff proposed removing the $50 non-refundable application fee because weather-related cancellations typically resulted in refunds, causing administrative overhead. A board member suggested reformatting the application for clarity (e.g., numbering instead of bullet points). The board approved the revised application unanimously (7-0). Board President Report - Board President had no report for the month. Director and Staff Report - Capital Projects & Master Plan: A kickoff meeting for the Parks and Recreation System Master Plan has occurred; a second meeting with the consulting firm is scheduled. Staff received a list from finance regarding the Community Investment Program (CIP) and are reviewing carryovers. - Activities Guide: The summer activity guide is in production, expected in mailboxes at the end of next week, with registration opening the following week. - Program Participation: - Youth soccer league: 75 teams registered (approximately 900 children). - Adult softball/kickball: 84 teams registered as of the meeting, expected to reach 90–100. - Men's basketball winter league: 16 teams (two full leagues). - Aquatics: First chemical order placed; five individuals completed Water Safety Instructor (WSI) training; a 12-person lifeguarding course begins the next day. Hiring for summer pool staff is underway; pools expected to fill with water in early May. - Community Learning Centers: Staff are working with the School District of Waukesha and the Department of Public Instruction to transfer a federal grant from Hawthorne Elementary (closing) to Lowell Elementary, where an estimated 75% of current Hawthorne students will attend. - Parking Lot Usage: A board member inquired about unauthorized use of the Prairie Avenue parking lot. Staff will investigate whether private organizations are parking there and will report back. Key Outcomes - All three discussion/decision items (summer fee schedule, pool fees, group admission application revision) were approved unanimously. - The board directed staff to consider formatting improvements to the group admission application for future versions. - Staff will follow up on unauthorized parking lot usage and provide an update at a future meeting. - The meeting adjourned after a brief staff report.

The City of Waukesha Plan Commission met on March 25, 2026 at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. 6 members were present (Joan Francoeur presiding, Elizabeth Moltzan, Jack Wells, R.G. Keller, Jennifer Wallner, Heather Granger) and 1 absent (Shawn Reilly). The commission approved the February 25, 2026 minutes, passed the consent agenda, and then took action on three linked Smart Trust items, a Lifeway expansion, and held consultations for Innio and Aries Industries. A special meeting for the new zoning code was announced for April 1, 2026. Consent Calendar - Final Site Plan & Architectural Review – 804 Corporate Ct, Milwaukee Motorwerks: Approved final plans for a 5,130 sq. ft. parking lot expansion in the M-3 Limited Business and Industrial Park District. - Final Site Plan & Architectural Review – 620 Northview Road, Hanger Building: Approved final plans for a new 7-unit hangar building at the Waukesha County Airport in the A-1 Airport District. - Minor Site Plan & Architectural Review – 1820 E. Main Street: Approved plans to replace vinyl siding with horizontal LP Smartsiding in cannon steel color and re-roofing in the B-4 Office Business District. - Final Site Plan & Architectural Review – 2525 Aviation Drive, Two Hangar Buildings: Approved final plans for two new hangar buildings on lots 620D and 620E at the Waukesha County Airport in the A-1 Airport District. - Minor Site Plan & Architectural Review – 1317 Arcadian Avenue, Johns Root Beer: Approved plans for a storage shed behind the building in the B-3 General Business District. Public Comments & Testimony - Pro Health Care (Smart Trust development): Attorney Jim Walden stated that Pro Health had relied on the city's 2020 approval of a T-intersection for five years, and that changing it at the last minute would jeopardize the project. He emphasized that the campus would be fully taxable. - Smart Family (Smart Trust development): Attorney Tom Schmitzer noted that the family had spent considerable time and money based on the earlier T-intersection approval, and that a through street would affect already-installed sewer lines and reduce developable lots. - Lifeway noise concerns: Scott Knutson (809 Magnolia) described a continuous jet-engine roar from the existing facility, measured at 60 decibels at 4 a.m. from a quarter mile away. He requested noise mitigation conditions on the expansion. Jim Francioni (810 Magnolia) echoed the concerns, emphasizing the character of the noise. Patrick Kemmerling (1116 El Doro) supported the statements and called for noise mitigation. - Alderman Piper (representing Lifeway area): Expressed support for the Lifeway expansion and assured residents he would hold the company accountable for noise issues. Discussion Items - Smart Trust – Certified Survey Map, Rezoning, and Final Site Plan (Summit Avenue/Country Crest Lane): The three linked items involve vacant land west of Meadowbrook Road and north of Summit Avenue. The applicant proposed a T-intersection at Country Crest Lane and the future private drive into the Pro Health campus, while the Department of Public Works recommended a through street. Planning staff and the applicant argued that the T-intersection would separate residential and institutional traffic, improve safety, and discourage cut-through traffic. The city engineer (consultant Josh Meyerhoffer) cited driver expectations and steep grades as reasons for a through street. The commission approved all three items with the T-intersection as proposed, and directed engineering to study the location of stop signs as the site develops. - Lifeway – Final Site Plan & Architectural Review (2101 Delafield Street): Lifeway proposes a 43,000 sq. ft. addition (originally listed as 47,000 sq. ft.) at the rear of their industrial building for new packaging lines, representing a $48 million investment. The addition will add landscaping along Northview Road and a new sidewalk. Neighbors raised concerns about existing noise from cooling towers; Lifeway representatives acknowledged a bearing issue and stated they are working on mitigation. The commission approved the plan with conditions that all staff comments be addressed and an engineering concurrence letter obtained before building permits. The vote was 5-1 (R.G. Keller dissenting, citing the unresolved noise issue). - Innio – Consultation (1101 W. St. Paul Avenue): Innio presented conceptual plans for an 83,000 sq. ft. addition to create a state-of-the-art test facility for a new engine line. The addition would be on the southwest corner of the existing 600,000 sq. ft. building, with no new impervious surface. Commissioners expressed excitement about the project but asked for consideration of noise mitigation (given nearby residences) and aesthetic improvements (e.g., murals) to the concrete tilt-up construction. No formal action was taken. - Aries Industries – Consultation (576 Elizabeth Street): Berg Management proposed a 7,500 sq. ft. metal building addition to create a drive-through assembly line for robotics equipment, along with repaving, landscaping, and a secure parking area. The addition would be on the north side adjacent to railroad tracks. Commissioners provided feedback: prefer a solid fence instead of chain-link with privacy slats, a landscape plan avoiding arborvitae, and better integration of the addition's appearance with the existing building. No formal action was taken. Key Outcomes - Smart Trust CSM (PC26-0010): Approved unanimously (6-0) with conditions that all city comments be addressed except those related to the T-intersection layout, which was approved as proposed. - Smart Trust Rezoning (PC26-0011): Approved unanimously (6-0) with conditions to rezone 9.78 acres from T-1 to I-1 Institutional (7.76 acres) and Rs-3 Single Family Residential (2.02 acres). - Smart Trust Final Site Plan (PC26-0020): Approved unanimously (6-0) with conditions that all city comments be addressed except T-intersection layout, and that engineering study stop sign placement as the site develops. - Lifeway Final Site Plan (PC26-0021): Approved 5-1 (R.G. Keller dissenting) with conditions that all staff comments be addressed and an engineering concurrence letter obtained before building permits. The commission noted the noise issue is not part of the plan but encouraged Lifeway to resolve it by June 1. - Innio Consultation (PC26-0022): No action taken; feedback provided to the applicant. - Aries Industries Consultation (PC26-0019): No action taken; feedback provided to the applicant. - Special Meeting: A special Plan Commission meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, April 1, 2026 to consider the new zoning code.

The Ordinance & License Committee of the City of Waukesha met on Monday, March 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Ald. Paul Wuteska. All five members were present: Ald. Wuteska, Ald. Alicia Halvensleben, Ald. Daniel Manion, Ald. Steve Van Trieste, and Ald. Dean D. Lemke. The meeting adjourned at 6:35 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (ID26-03138): The minutes from the March 9, 2026 meeting were approved by unanimous consent. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present for public comment. License Approvals - Invited Bartender License – David Dufek: Approved unanimously (5-0) after discussion of a 2003 liquor law violation (alcohol-related offense when he was 18). The committee noted the long passage of time. - Invited Bartender License – Jessica Patz: Approved unanimously (5-0). Her responsible beverage server training was not yet on file but would be required before issuance. - Invited Bartender License – Lupita Roque: Approved unanimously (5-0) despite a single offense eight years ago. The applicant was not present, but the committee moved to approve. - Invited Bartender License – Anthony Zukauskis: Held over to the next meeting due to a recent offense and the applicant not being present. - Invited Other Application – Silverhaze: Held over pending the applicant's attendance; compliance checks had been failed in the last two years. - Other Applications (ID26-03182): Approved unanimously (5-0) as listed, including: - Waukesha Hospitality LLC – extension of premises (Angleside) - Watch Circle – renewal of secondhand dealer license - Spring City Wine House LLC – sidewalk cafe - Waukesha Old Car Club – temporary Class B license for annual car show in Frame Park - Quick Trip – change of agent - Walgreens – change of agent Brief discussion occurred regarding the agenda not listing the specific types of licenses sought; the city attorney noted the attachment provided sufficient public notice. Discussion and Recommendation - Update to Municipal Code 13.055 – Residential Solid Waste and Recyclables Collection (ID26-03079): Alex Damien (Director of Public Works) and Emma (staff) presented the updates, which primarily: - Reflected the change of contractor from Waste Management to Johns (lowest qualified bidder after RFP). - Added a definition for “dwelling unit.” - Added special eligibility rules (e.g., allowing properties like the Women’s Center and Housing Authority properties to opt out of city service if they use private dumpsters). - Reorganized the ordinance for clarity. - Included a new Section 8 (“Scavenging Prohibited”) that conflicted with existing code (Sec. 8.02) which allowed scavenging from terraces between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. City Attorney Brian noted the contradiction had existed since 2015. He recommended striking the section and renumbering, as the existing provision (from 1991) had worked well and benefits residents. After debate, the committee amended the motion to approve the update with Section 8 struck and sections renumbered accordingly. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items, approved licenses, and the ordinance update passed unanimously (5-0). - The held licenses (Anthony Zukauskis, Silverhaze) will be reconsidered at a future meeting. - The ordinance update to 13.055 (excluding Section 8) will proceed to the Common Council for final adoption. - Clerk's office will contact successful applicants after Common Council approval (expected at the April 9, 2026 meeting, with consent agenda placement for unanimous items). - City Attorney Brian noted he had circulated a draft of proposed revisions to Chapter 9 (related to Act 73 and other changes) for future committee discussion.

The Waukesha Water Commission held its regular meeting on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Water Utility Conference Room. Commissioners present: Joan Francoeur, Jeff Fowle, Gerald Couri, Joe Piatt, Dale Matthews, and Shawn Reilly. Commissioner Peter Bartels was absent. All action items were approved, and two discussion items on future water main relays received informal support. Staff provided updates on the new Operations Center, utility performance, and financials. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (February 19, 2026): Unanimously approved (motion by Couri, second by Francoeur; 6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made at the meeting. Discussion Items - Water Main Relay on Prairie Avenue: Staff proposed relaying approximately 700 feet of 20-inch cast iron main from Sunset to the railroad tracks, coinciding with the village's road reconstruction. Cost estimates fall within budget savings from other projects. Commissioners expressed support for proceeding with bids. - Water Main Relay on Luke, Born, and Walton Streets: Staff proposed replacing approximately 1,600 feet of aging six-inch cast iron (from the 1950s and 1916) with eight-inch PVC, citing numerous breaks. The project would coordinate with city sewer work. Commissioners informally agreed to move forward with bidding. Key Outcomes - Approval of February Voucher List (Payments from General Fund and Improvement Fund): Unanimously approved (6-0). Discussion included clarification on contract dispute payments (Everlaw, Stafford, Vertex) totaling approximately $125,000, voided checks, and a PILOT payment of $774,049 to the city. - Approval of $155,098.67 to Forte for Audio Visual Equipment and Installation Services for the New Operations Center: Unanimously approved (6-0). The cost is within the budgeted $177,000. - Approval of Easement Agreement with WE Energies at Woodridge Booster Station (no cost to utility): Approved 5-0 with one abstention (Commissioner Fowle abstained due to employment with WE Energies). The 12-foot easement runs along the lot line. - Approval of Professional Services Agreement with 120 Water for School and Childcare Facility Compliance Monitoring ($27,731.72): Unanimously approved (6-0). This addresses upcoming EPA lead and copper rules (unfunded mandate), covering approximately 20% of 56 schools/daycares in the first year. - Approval of Water Main Offset Unit Price Contract with Musson Brothers for Davidson Road Utility & Street Improvements ($51,846.33, including 1% City administration fee): Unanimously approved (6-0). Work will occur after June 12 to avoid school disruption. - Approval of Emergency Resolution (No. 3-19-26) for Water Main Replacement at Willow Park Apartments (cost not to exceed $76,665 plus $20,000 for asphalt restoration): Unanimously approved (6-0). The emergency was declared due to four sequential failures on a 1979 six-inch ductile iron main; replacement has been completed under $76,000. - Approval of Water Main Replacement Unit Price Contract with LaLonde Contractors for 2026 Resurfacing Utility Replacement & Street Improvements ($5,003,225.53, including 1% City administration fee): Unanimously approved (6-0). The low bid came in under the $6.9 million budget; projects include Pebble Valley Road (eight-inch PVC), Easy Street/Oak Lawn/Norton (six-inch cast iron replacement), and Hillside/Harris (eight-inch PVC). Information Items - New Operations Center Updates: The building is enclosed, concrete pouring scheduled for March 30, and completion expected late October/November. The training room, wash bay, and storage areas are progressing. - Utility Performance Report/Administrative Activities: Staff reported on lawsuit expert witness work, a joint trip to Washington DC regarding future water needs, a successful audit with Baker Tilly, well abandonment bids, ongoing generator installation, and scheduled drain-down inspections of water towers starting April 15. - Financial Report (February): Revenue is 1.3% above budget due to higher commercial/industrial consumption. Expenses were under budget in purchased water, distribution ($20,000 under due to fewer street openings), and customer service (vacant training position). Cash balance at end of February was $52.8 million, with $3 million in March obligations. Three projects (Davidson, Bidwell, 2026 Resurfacing) have bid out; only Prospect work has started. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 7:04 PM.

The Board of Public Works of the City of Waukesha met on March 19, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers. All members except Joe Pieper were present. The board approved minutes, payments, recommended bids for two projects, approved a stormwater maintenance agreement, and denied a one-time sewer credit request. The meeting also included discussion on snow removal operations and a construction access solution. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (ID26-03144): The minutes from the March 5, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. - Approval of Payments (ID26-03188): Two payments, including a final payment for the Badger Drive HVAC project, were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Transit Center Boiler Replacement (Bid ID26-03145): Bids were opened on March 6, 2026. Two bids were received. The low base bid from August Winter & Sons, Inc. for $52,400 was recommended. Discussion ensued regarding alternatives (pump replacement and control reconfiguration) which were not included due to cost. The project is fully funded by federal grants. The board voted to recommend awarding the low base bid. - 2026 Asphalt Street Resurfacing and Utility Improvements (Bid ID26-03146): Three bids were received for this major project. The low bid from LaLonde Contractors, Inc. for the base bid, Mandatory Alternate 1, and Utility Repair Alternate 1 totaled $10,771,081.80, under the budget of approximately $11 million. A board member noted past quality issues with LaLonde on the Silver Nail Road project, but this project involves asphalt resurfacing with a subcontractor (Wolf Paving). The board voted to recommend awarding the bid. - Storm Water Management Practice Maintenance Agreement (ID26-03143): The agreement between the City and Montessori School of Waukesha, Inc. for property at 2600 Summit Avenue was reviewed. The school's new addition required stormwater management improvements including an infiltration basin and catch basins. The board voted to recommend the agreement for Council consent. - One-Time Sewer Credit Request (ID26-03147): Danielle Knapp requested a credit for excessive water usage at 1575-1577 Dover Dr. due to a leaking hose over approximately two months (September-October 2025), totaling an estimated 100,000 gallons (1,670 gallons per day). Staff recommended denial, citing negligence. The board discussed the lack of homeowner diligence and potential recourse against the contractor. A motion to deny was made and passed 4-0. - Other Reports: The board discussed snow removal operations, noting long hours and some sod damage. A board member commended the creative solution for providing temporary access via the golf course during the Lomira/Prospect construction project, though the access is intended to be temporary. A plow truck incident was also mentioned. Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes of March 5, 2026; Payments; Transit Center Boiler Replacement recommendation (low bid to August Winter & Sons, Inc.); Asphalt Resurfacing and Utility Improvements recommendation (low bid to LaLonde Contractors, Inc.); Storm Water Management Practice Maintenance Agreement for Montessori School (recommended to Council). - Denied: One-time sewer credit request from Danielle Knapp (motion carried 4-0). - Next Steps: The bid recommendations will be forwarded to the City Council for approval. The stormwater agreement will be placed on the Council consent agenda.

The Waukesha Transit Commission met on March 19, 2026 at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a public hearing on proposed service changes effective June 15, 2026, followed by votes to recommend those changes and a federal transit grant resolution to the City Council. Commissioners present: Kevin Reilly, Eric Payne, Steve Kassens, Chad O'Donnell. Joe Pieper was absent. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (February 5, 2026): Approved unanimously (4-0) with a motion by Ald. Eric Payne, seconded by Kevin Reilly. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Zarwell (1219 S. Grandview Blvd.) expressed concern about proposed elimination of Sunday Route 6 service. He stated he takes Route 6 daily to work and transfers to Route 1, and does not want to move or pay for Uber. He asked for Route 6 to run longer. - Michael (no last name or address provided) opposed Route 9 reductions, stating he uses the weekday bus daily. Discussion Items - Proposed Service Changes (Effective June 15, 2026): Transit Manager Brian Engelking presented the changes, summarized as follows: - Route 6: Eliminate Sunday service due to low ridership; similar to routes 3, 9, and 15 which already lack Sunday service. - Route 5: Eliminate the West High after-school trip (average 1 student rider) and the 8:50 a.m. Sunday trip. - Route 9 (Weekday): First trip delayed from 5:55 to 6:30 a.m.; 12:20 p.m. trip pushed back to 2:25 p.m. for operational efficiencies. - Route 9 (Saturday): Route truncated north of Silvernail Road (no service to WCTC area). Only one boarding and 2.5 alightings per Saturday on that segment, saving 40-45% of mileage. The freed bus will be used to run a second Route 4 on Saturday to increase frequency to 30 minutes (Route 4 serves south-central Waukesha including Walmart). - Route 4 (Saturday): Last two evening trips eliminated, service ends at 7:45 p.m. instead of 8:45 p.m. - Route 4 (Sunday): A second bus added for a 5-hour span to boost capacity (Route 4 has highest Sunday ridership after Route 1). - Route 3: Last two Saturday trips eliminated, service ends at 5:00 p.m. (Route 1 provides nearby coverage until 11 p.m.). - Route 8: 6:15 p.m. weekday trip eliminated (average 1 rider per trip), changing frequency from 30 to 60 minutes starting at that time. - Paratransit: A slight reduction to the weekend MetroLift zone to match the truncated Route 9 Saturday service (no longer extends to WCTC area on weekends). - WCTC/YMCA consideration: Member Reilly asked about potential future service if the YMCA relocates near WCTC. Engelking stated the city cannot afford any new service without outside funding (from WCTC, City of Pewaukee, or Waukesha County). He confirmed WCTC was notified and had no comment. - Outreach to affected riders: Engelking noted drivers have been handing notices on affected trips. He also offered to work with Mark Zarwell on potential conditional MetroLift eligibility. Key Outcomes - Motion to recommend service changes to City Council: Motion by Ald. Eric Payne, seconded by Kevin Reilly. Carried 4-0 (Joe Pieper absent). - Motion to recommend Resolution Authorizing Filing of 2026 Federal Transit Grant: Motion by Ald. Eric Payne, seconded by Kevin Reilly. Carried 4-0. The grant covers operating expenses and approved capital projects, including 2027 bus purchases and future paratransit buses. - Public hearing opened at 5:32 PM and closed at 5:46 PM. - Communications: Engelking invited commissioners to visit Badger Drive next month to see buses and the new bus wash. - Meeting adjourned unanimously at an unspecified time.

The Human Resources Committee of the City of Waukesha met on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting was called to order with a quorum of four out of five members present (Doreen Wigderson, Mike Anderson, Dale Matthews, Mike Chrisien; Paul Wuteska absent). The meeting lasted approximately four minutes, adjourning at 6:04 PM. The committee unanimously approved the previous meeting's minutes and a revised vacation leave policy. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (ID26-03184): The minutes of the February 18, 2026 Human Resources Committee meeting were approved unanimously (4 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent). Discussion Items - Review and Possible Action on Revised HR Policy C2 Vacation Leave (ID26-03185): A staff member explained that the revision was needed to update language in the vacation leave policy regarding the vacation run-out for retirees, aligning it with changes already approved in the C4 Benefits Election at Retirement policy. The change is shown in red on the second page under section 8B (Benefits Run Out). Committee member Dale Matthews asked clarifying questions about whether employees can switch from vacation to sick time if they become ill (per policy, no) and how canceled vacation time is reallocated to other staff (it returns to the employee's accrual bank and is then available for other employees to request through their department, subject to departmental policy). No other questions were raised. Key Outcomes - Approval of Revised HR Policy C2 Vacation Leave: The committee voted unanimously (4 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent) to approve the revised policy as presented. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 6:04 PM with no objections or referrals.

On March 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM, the Waukesha City Council met in Council Chambers at City Hall with Ald. Alicia Halvensleben serving as chair. Fourteen aldermen were present; Jack Wells was absent. The council approved a new ordinance authorizing impoundment of vehicles used in reckless driving, authorized a historic preservation conservation easement for 130 Delafield Street, and approved the Spring 2026 Public Street Tree Planting Program assessment at $397 per tree. The meeting adjourned at 7:50 PM. Consent Calendar All items approved unanimously without debate or removal: - Contract for technical rescue services with the Village of Lisbon. - Funding to raze the property at 137/139 E. Park Avenue. - Mental Health Crisis Response Unit agreement with HHSA. - Extension of the no-parking area on Wilmont Drive to include 301 Wilmont Drive. - Alcohol beverage license (AB-105) for Raised Grain for Tribute Tuesday (June 9, July 14, August 11, September 1) and for GuitarTown Music Festival (June 13). - Invited bartender licenses and other license applications (March 9, 2026). - 2026 Drop-Off Center fee adjustments. - Contract with Compost Crusaders for composting residential food waste. - Installation of guardrail in front of 524 Madison Street. - Storm Water Management Practice Maintenance Agreement with Bielinski Homes for Olde Farm Subdivision. Public Comments & Testimony - Monica Paz (905 Oxford Road) expressed full support for the funding to raze 137/139 E. Park Avenue, citing a nearly four-year effort and a recent court order. She described the property as an eyesore with broken windows and numerous non-moving vehicles. - John Thomas (134 Douglass Avenue) urged the city to repaint faded bike lanes, warning that faded markings create safety hazards for cyclists. - Lisa Salb (434 Madison Street) opposed the Historic Preservation Conservation Easement for 130 Delafield Street, arguing that city staff misled the council by claiming the parcel lacks historic integrity. She stated the easement protects only one view and fails to consider other historically significant properties. - Melyssa Gonzalez (161 Randall Street) also opposed the easement, stating it should preserve the broader historic context of the Madison Street Historic District, not just a single sight line. Discussion Items Vacation of West Avenue Right-of-Way (ID26-02899) - City Attorney Brian Running explained the resolution vacates a portion of West Avenue right-of-way to allow the sale of city surplus property at 223 S. West Ave to a local artist. The building slightly overlaps the right-of-way; the vacation enables parcel consolidation. The resolution met statutory publication requirements. - Vote: Approved 12-1 (Ald. Rick Lemke voted no). Authorization for Historic Preservation Conservation Easement (ID26-03142) - Brian Running stated the easement is required by Wis. Stat. §66.1111(3)(b) before the city can sell the property at 130 Delafield Street, located within the National Register boundary of the Senator William Blair House. After the city failed to remove the southern parking lot from the Register, negotiations with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) resulted in an easement restricting construction height to 845 feet above sea level (preserving a view from the Blair House). The easement allows exceptions for utility poles, flagpoles, landscaping, and temporary structures. - Ald. Payne objected, citing pending litigation and resident concerns about loss of downtown views. Ald. Van Trieste clarified the easement preserves the view. Ald. R. Lemke supported the easement as necessary for the property sale, which benefits the city. - Vote: Approved 9-4. Nays: Ald. Payne, Ald. Van Trieste, Ald. Matthews, Ald. Camacho. Adoption of Reckless Driving Vehicle Impounding Ordinance (ID26-03071) - Brian Running presented the ordinance adopting Wis. Stat. §349.115, which allows police to impound vehicles used in reckless driving at their discretion, even on a first offense. State law previously required the vehicle owner to be the driver and a second offense. The ordinance gives officers discretion based on circumstances. - Ald. Van Trieste moved to suspend the third reading. Passed 12-1 (Ald. Moltzan voted no). - Ald. R. Lemke proposed an amendment to waive impound fees for anyone found not guilty. After debate about who would pay and whether police could store vehicles, the amendment failed 6-7. Ayes: Chrisien, Payne, Van Trieste, Dean Lemke, Rick Lemke, Camacho. Nays: Wigderson, Pieper, Manion, Moltzan, Wuteska, Anderson, Matthews. - Ald. Wuteska moved to adopt the ordinance as presented. Approved 10-3. Nays: Ald. Payne, Ald. Dean Lemke, Ald. Camacho. - Discussion included officer discretion, potential hardship for innocent owners, and the police department's support for the tool. Communications and Engagement Team Year-End Review (ID26-03089) - Rebecca presented the 2025 report, highlighting: website redesign for ADA compliance, consolidation of city publications into "Waukesha Current" saving approximately $30,000, strategic plan communications, new employee photo directory, SOAR workshops, 3,533 AI chatbot chats, 114 new videos, increased email subscribers, and expanded police communication partnership. No vote was taken. Public Hearing & Action: Spring 2026 Tree Planting Assessment (ID26-03056) - City Forester Aaron Laneert presented the program: 158 trees to be planted (18 new, 15 chargeable; 140 replacements). Assessment is $397 per tree, based on average tree price and estimated contractor labor. The city is contracting planting to focus staff on maintenance. Laneert also reviewed 2025 forestry activities and announced the April 25 Arbor Day celebration at Rivers Crossing Park. - Public Hearing: Opened and closed with no public testimony. - Ald. Matthews raised concerns about sidewalk conflicts and requested a map of replacement locations. Ald. Wuteska argued the full cost should be passed to residents requesting new trees. Ald. Payne opposed contracting out. Ald. R. Lemke supported the $397 fee as reasonable. Ald. Anderson noted the difference between $397 and the estimated $428 total cost. - Motion by Ald. R. Lemke, seconded by Ald. Wigderson, to approve the assessment at $397 per tree. Approved 9-4. Nays: Ald. Wuteska, Ald. Anderson, Ald. Matthews, Ald. Camacho. Other Reports and Votes - Board of Public Works Bid Awards: - N. Moreland Blvd. & Michigan Ave. Traffic Signal Improvements: Low base bid and Alternate 1 from LaLonde Contractors, Inc. for $433,976.02. Approved unanimously. - Concrete Pavement Patching and Concrete Sawing (City Wide): Low bid from State Contractors, Inc. for $595,190.00. Approved unanimously. - Reports were given by representatives of the Transit Commission, Water Utility Commission, Information Technology Board, Landmarks Commission, Redevelopment Authority, Library Board, Cemetery Commission, Housing Authority, and Public Art Committee. No actions were taken. - Referral: Ald. Van Trieste referred a request to rescind odd/even parking regulations to the Ordinance & License Committee. Key Outcomes - Approved (12-1): Vacation of West Avenue right-of-way to facilitate surplus property sale. - Approved (9-4): Recording of Historic Preservation Conservation Easement against 130 Delafield Street. - Approved (10-3): Adoption of reckless driving vehicle impounding ordinance. - Rejected (6-7): Amendment to waive impound fees for those found not guilty of reckless driving. - Approved (9-4): Spring 2026 Public Street Tree Planting Program assessment at $397 per tree. - Approved (unanimous): Consent agenda items; two Board of Public Works bid awards. - Referred to Ordinance & License Committee: Ald. Van Trieste's request to rescind odd/even parking regulations.

The Landmarks Commission of Waukesha, Wisconsin met on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered a Certificate of Appropriateness for window replacement at a historic hotel, scheduling adjustments, grant fund updates, and reports. Four commissioners were present (Matt Retzak, Mike Chrisien, Carmen De La Paz, Linda Gourdoux) and three were absent (Marty Larson, Tony Lanza, Andrea Dorantes). Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (January 7, 2026): Motion by Ald. Chrisien, seconded by Retzak. The motion carried 3 ayes (Retzak, Chrisien, De La Paz), 3 absent, 1 abstention (Gourdoux, who was not present at the January meeting). Public Comments & Testimony - Lisa Halp (434 Madison Street) spoke during public comment regarding the proposed date change for the April meeting (Item 26-03108). She questioned why the Landmarks Commission meeting would be bumped for a second consecutive month to accommodate the Plan Commission's zoning code update schedule, noting that the Plan Commission meets on March 25th and expressed concern over the precedent. Discussion Items - Certificate of Appropriateness for 915 N. Hartwell Ave. (Resthaven Hotel): Review of a request to replace over 400 existing vinyl windows with Pella fiberglass windows. Staff described the building as the last intact example of a Grand Springs era resort hotel (built 1905, operated as hotel until 1919, then veteran's hospital until 1958). The proposed fiberglass windows are designed to match the existing openings, with a more consistent profile and color that better complement the historic character. Andrew Moser (Regional Director of Development, Ethnos 360) presented, noting a $5 million capital campaign, with $1.6 million already spent on interior work. Also present: Kyle Voles (Catalyst Construction) and Sean (Pella Windows commercial sales). Commissioners asked about odd window configurations (bricked-in sections, fire escape, air conditioner units) and confirmed those are not part of this project, though future central air is being phased in. Commission members expressed support for the fiberglass choice, noting the precedent from vinyl to fiberglass, energy efficiency, longevity, and improved aesthetics. No objections were raised. - Alternative Date for April Landmarks Commission Meeting (ID26-03108): Due to a special Plan Commission meeting for the zoning code update, the regular first-Wednesday April meeting (April 1st) needed to be moved. Staff offered April 2nd or April 8th. Commissioner Tony Lanza (absent) indicated via email that April 8th worked better due to spring break. Commissioners present agreed on Wednesday, April 8th at the same time (6:00 PM). Staff assured this change was temporary and regular scheduling would resume in May. - Landmark's Commission Paint and Repair Grant Funds: Staff reported that for 2026, $25,000 is available, with $6,432 carried over from 2025 projects not yet completed (expected completion in spring). The grant program now uses a "spot slum blight" designation per updated federal guidelines, applicable to all Landmark properties. Commission discretion remains on amounts (up to $3,000, typically 15% of project cost). No grant applications were on the current agenda. - Alderman's Report: Ald. Chrisien noted the Parks Department is organizing volunteer spring park cleanups on April 25th (Earth Day cleanup). He encouraged checking the city website for sign-ups. - Springs Report: Staff provided an update on Hobo Spring, which has been flooded since early November. Due to freezing conditions and safety for workers, debris removal had not yet been completed. Staff will request Parks Department assistance for mud cleanup (not suitable for volunteers). A springs cleanup is anticipated in May. - Communications and Publications: Staff announced that nomination forms for the 2026 Landmarks Commission Awards will be sent out soon; most nominations come from commissioners. The Wisconsin Association of Historic Preservation Commissions (WAHPC) conference is scheduled for April 23-24 in Sturgeon Bay. The city can help with registration costs. Key Outcomes - Certificate of Appropriateness Approved: Motion by Gourdoux, seconded by De La Paz. Approved unanimously (4 ayes, 3 absent). The commission approved the replacement of 400+ windows with Pella fiberglass windows at 915 N. Hartwell Ave. (Resthaven Hotel). - April Meeting Date Changed: The April Landmarks Commission meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 6:00 PM (same time and location) instead of April 1st. - Paint and Repair Grants: No grants were considered; staff will provide updated guidelines and timeline by the April meeting. - Parks Cleanup: Volunteers can participate in citywide Earth Day cleanup on April 25, 2026. - Hobo Spring: Debris removal to be coordinated with Parks Department; no set date. - Nomination Deadline: Commissioners are encouraged to submit award nominations before the April 8th meeting. Adjournment The meeting adjourned after approximately one hour.