The Finance Committee met on June 9, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers to consider three business items from the fire department: a radio grant, an urban search and rescue agreement, and a reallocation of funds for a vehicle. All items were approved, with the vehicle reallocation passing 4-1. The committee also discussed the upcoming budget season. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from April 28, 2026, were approved without objection. Discussion Items Radio Grant FY26 (ID26-03744) Assistant Chief Tim Fleming presented a grant opportunity from the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs Office of Emergency Communications for upgrading radios as part of a countywide radio system change (OASIS system) anticipated for 2028. The grant funds "flashing" of 41 mobile radios ($5,648 each) and replacement of portable radios ($11,600 each). The city can offset costs for the 2028 CIP. Alderman Anderson asked about strings; none attached. The item was approved unanimously on a motion by Lemke, seconded by Matthews. 2026-2028 Urban Search and Rescue Agreement (ID26-03745) The agreement renews the city's participation in Wisconsin Task Force One. Two fire department members are part of the team. Changes are minimal (removed COVID language, clarified ambiguous terms). The city has not been deployed for actual emergencies, but training benefits are noted. Approved unanimously on a motion by Wigderson, seconded by Lemke. Reallocation of Funds from CIP 26F08 for MIH Vehicle (ID26-03746) The fire safety house replacement project (26F08) came in under budget, freeing approximately $98,000. Chief Fleming proposed using $35,000 to purchase a Ford Escape for the Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) position. Currently, the MIH provider uses an outdated fleet vehicle (approximately 2015 Ford Explorer with unknown mileage). Alderman Lemke opposed, arguing the existing vehicle could be used longer and funds should be saved for other needs like sidewalk repairs. Alderman Anderson supported the purchase, citing reliability for mental health crisis responses and proactive replacement philosophy. The motion passed 4-1 (Pieper, Matthews, Wigderson, Anderson in favor; Lemke opposed). The committee requested additional cost analysis from the fleet manager before the item goes to full council. Communications Director Brown announced the budget calendar will be sent to council members, with key dates including a show and tell at the city garage on August 25. The CIP review will now be conducted in two Finance Committee meetings instead of three. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of April 28, 2026. - Approved Radio Grant FY26 (unanimous). - Approved Urban Search and Rescue Agreement (unanimous). - Approved reallocation of funds for MIH vehicle (4-1), with a request for further vehicle cost analysis. - Meeting adjourned at 6:18 PM.
Public Meetings - Waukesha, Wisconsin
Public Meetings - Waukesha, WisconsinThe Ordinance & License Committee of Waukesha, Wisconsin met on Monday, June 8, 2026 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Three members were present (Doreen Wigderson, Daniel Manion, Erik Helgestad) constituting a quorum; two members were absent (Jim Evert, Paul Wuteska). The meeting covered public comment, license approvals, and a discussion on proposed regulations for powered scooters, bikes, and other vehicles on city sidewalks. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the May 11, 2026 meeting were approved by unanimous consent. Public Comments & Testimony - Stephanie Fidlin (2609 Stonefield Ct.), a resident and emergency department nurse, spoke in strong support of prohibiting motorized e-bikes and e-scooters on sidewalks. She described witnessing near-collisions with pedestrians and people in wheelchairs, noting that e-bikes can travel up to 20 mph and that riders are often young children without driver's education. She urged the committee to pass the proposed ordinance, emphasizing the severe injuries she has seen in the ER and the increased risk to elderly pedestrians. Discussion Items - License Applications: The committee considered several license categories. For invited bartenders, the committee approved licenses for Malik Christian (possession charge discussed), Angela Lurvey (DUI discussed with employer support), Sara Silver (OWI from 2020 explained as prior to motherhood), and Shawn Steffen (OWI from 2022 and past offenses, with strong employer vouch). Two applicants (Mariah Riskowitz and Joshua Shoemaker) were held over due to absence. The committee also approved a non-invited other bartender license for Carolyn Henson (no recent infractions). Under invited other applications, a tobacco outlet and liquor license renewal for Narinder Singh was approved after discussion of a failed compliance check in November 2025, with assurances of improved ID scanning. Finally, the committee approved 69 other license applications en masse via a single motion. All votes were 3-0. - Proposed Regulation of Powered Scooters, Bikes, and Other Vehicles on City Sidewalks (Ordinance 11.076-E): The committee reviewed a draft ordinance proposed by staff (Brian and Michael Radovich) that would impose a blanket ban on all electric-powered vehicles on sidewalks. Assistant Chief Tom Wagner from the Waukesha Police Department offered alternative recommendations, including an age limit (12 and older must ride in roadway), requiring pedestrians to have right-of-way, audible signals for passing, and a speed limit no faster than walking speed when pedestrians are present. Committee members expressed support for the draft as a starting point but acknowledged that modifications were needed. The committee decided to move the ordinance as presented to the Common Council for full discussion, allowing input from the entire council and public. Key Outcomes - All license applications were approved with votes of 3-0: four invited bartender applications, one other bartender application, one invited other application, and a block of 69 other license applications. - The committee voted 3-0 (motion by Wigderson, second by Manion) to recommend the proposed sidewalk regulation ordinance to the Common Council for discussion, rather than holding it in committee. The ordinance will be placed on the next council agenda for first reading. - The meeting adjourned at 7:09 PM.
The Cemetery Commission of Waukesha, Wisconsin, met on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Hall Training Room. Commissioners present were Amanda Roddy, Mike Christine, Rico Camacho, and Carrie Tim. Other commissioners were excused. The meeting covered routine approvals, the annual election of officers, and several operational and planning reports from cemetery staff and community groups. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from the February 9, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously (motion by Mike Christine, second by Rico Camacho). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present to comment. Discussion Items - New Business: None. - Annual Election of Officers: - President: Amanda Roddy was nominated (by Mike Christine) and elected unanimously. She accepted the position. - Vice President: Alderman Mike Christine was nominated (by Amanda Roddy) and elected unanimously. He accepted. - Cemetery Director Report (Karen): - Service summary for January–May 2026: 68 total services, 43% cremation, 12% natural burial. Memorial Day preparations went well with timely seasonal staff. - Prairie burn postponed to fall due to weather. - Capital Improvement Projects (CIP): chapel tuck pointing nearly complete; security cameras installation imminent; autumn garden roofing and tuck pointing to begin this summer. - Three used golf carts were acquired at less than the cost of one budgeted cart. - Tribute garden in the veteran section delayed; grant awarded; installation scheduled for October during Waukesha Unlocked. - A conceptual rendering for adding cremation options (columbarium and niches) to the boulevard was presented. It would be a phased project, ultimately providing at least 1,000 spaces. Quotes for phase one are being obtained. A formal proposal with pricing is planned for the August meeting. - Staffing: 3 full-time groundskeepers plus 5.5 seasonal workers in summer. Hourly wages increased by 25 cents, improving recruitment. Seasonal staff are trained to operate mowers. - Friends of Prairie Home Cemetery President’s Report: - A Taco John’s fundraiser is scheduled for June 10, 2026, to support the tribute garden. - The third annual Tombstone Trot is set for Sunday, October 18, 2026. - The tribute garden in the veteran section will be installed before Waukesha Unlocked in October. - Cemetery Commission President’s Report: Outgoing president Pat chose not to run again and expressed confidence in the new leadership. - Alderman’s Report: - Thanked Pat for her service as president. - Encouraged participation in Waukesha Unlocked (two-day event featuring historic sites, including Prairie Home Cemetery). Les Paul tours will be part of the event. - Referrals from past meetings: the light pole underground wiring, fence and tree damage from a crash, and the pillar on West Avenue have all been completed. Key Outcomes - Election Results: Amanda Roddy elected Cemetery Commission President; Alderman Mike Christine elected Vice President. - Directives: The Cemetery Director will bring a refined rendering and pricing for the cremation addition to the August 10, 2026, meeting for approval. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for August 10, 2026, at 5:30 PM. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned unanimously (motion by Mike Christine, second by Rico Camacho).
The Board of Zoning Appeals for the City of Waukesha met on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting included a presentation by the City Attorney on variance standards, the approval of previous minutes, and three appeals for dimensional variances. Two appeals were denied, and one was approved. Consent Calendar - Minutes of May 11, 2026 (ID26-03578): Approved by a vote of 4–0–1 (Kevin Reilly motion, Timothy Retic second; Christine D'Angelo abstained for not attending the prior meeting). Presentation: Variance Approval Standards - City Attorney Brian Running provided a detailed overview of the legal standards for granting variances. He explained the distinction between use variances (extremely strict, requiring a showing that the property would have no use at all) and area/dimensional variances (less strict but requiring an unnecessary hardship, a unique property condition, and no harm to the public interest). He emphasized that self-imposed hardships, economic considerations, and personal opinions about the zoning code are not valid grounds for granting a variance. The board was encouraged to refer to resources from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. Discussion Items - Appeal of Eyrekr and Clifford Wiemer (ID26-03579): Request for a dimensional variance to build a 192-square-foot garden shed at 2219 Northview Rd. (code: 150 sq. ft. max for properties with attached garage). The property is nearly one acre, but the existing 120 sq. ft. shed is old and too small for a riding mower. The board noted the lot size is not unique, the shed has functioned for 22 years, and new zoning code updates may allow larger sheds as early as September 2026. The variance was denied 4–1 (Tim Nekich dissenting). - Appeal of Jeff Trost (ID26-03711): Request for a dimensional variance to build a 10×15 shed in the street yard at 3100 Engler Dr. (code: sheds only in rear yards). The property is a corner lot with a steep slope and drainage issues in the rear, making rear-yard construction costly ($23,000 vs. $10,000 in the street yard). The board found the hardship was not unique (other properties have similar topography) and that the street yard restriction is intended to preserve aesthetics. The variance was denied 5–0. - Appeal of Brett Stegerwald (ID26-03712): Request for a dimensional variance to build a solid fence in the street yard at 240 Douglass Ave. (code: solid fences only in side/rear yards on lots with two street frontages). The property is unusually oriented: the entrance faces Douglas Avenue (the address), but the functional rear yard faces Grand Avenue. A neighbor across the street with a different address orientation had a similar fence without a variance. The board found this unique orientation created an exceptional hardship. The variance was approved 5–0, with the condition that the fence include a required vision triangle. Key Outcomes - Denied: Appeal for 2219 Northview Rd. (garden shed size) – 4–1 vote. - Denied: Appeal for 3100 Engler Dr. (shed in street yard) – 5–0 vote. - Approved: Appeal for 240 Douglass Ave. (fence in street yard) – 5–0 vote, conditioned on vision triangle. - Adjourned at approximately 5:10 PM via unanimous motion. Note: The agenda and minutes list the address for the third appeal as "240 Douglass Ave.," but the transcript and supporting materials consistently refer to "240 Douglas Avenue." The board noted this discrepancy but proceeded without change.
The Board of Public Works met on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers at Waukesha City Hall. Members present: Kevin Reilly, Chad O'Donnell, Joe Pieper, and Eileen Micklitz. Steve Kassens was absent. The board approved routine items, considered bids for several projects, and recommended a contract change order to the Common Council. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (May 21, 2026): Approved unanimously (4-0). - Approval of Payments: Approved unanimously (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Greenway Terrace Playground Resilient Surface (Bid Rejection): Staff reported that the sole bid received was well over budget—approximately 20-25% higher than estimates for the resilient surface and concrete work. The board voted unanimously to reject the bid. The project will be repackaged and re-scoped in coordination with the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department to reduce costs. - Williams Street Overhead to Underground Electric Conversion: Two bids were received. The board recommended awarding the contract to the low bidder, Bevara, in the amount of $99,920. This project is tied to the broader Williams Street placemaking and reconstruction effort. Motion approved unanimously. - 2026 Pavement Crackfilling: Three bids were received. The board recommended awarding the contract to the low bidder, Thunder Road LLC, in the amount of $143,220. Motion approved unanimously. - Grede Park Irrigation Installation: No bids were received. Staff will repackage the project and proactively reach out to potential contractors, many of whom typically work as subcontractors and may need guidance on the bidding process. No action taken. - Contract Change Order No. 1 – Bidwell Avenue and Prospect Avenue Utility and Street Improvements Project: The change order includes: $30,000 additional for unsuitable sub-base (gravel and geotextile grid) to ensure pavement stability. Sanitary sewer items: a manhole outside drop ($5,750), a lateral open cut ($10,120), and deducts for unneeded sewer spot repairs, resulting in a net increase. A separate item for repairs to the Police Department parking lot ($112,328.75) to correct a drainage design error by the original engineer, JSD. JSD will reimburse the city for this cost, making it a net-zero expense to the city. The total change order was approximately $140,000, but the city’s net cost is only for the utility/road items. The board voted unanimously to recommend the change order for Council consent. Key Outcomes - Approved unanimously: Minutes, payments. - Recommended for Council approval: Williams Street electric conversion (Bevara, $99,920); 2026 Pavement Crackfilling (Thunder Road LLC, $143,220); Contract Change Order No. 1 with Wandel Contractors. - Bid rejected: Greenway Terrace Playground Resilient Surface (to be repackaged). - No action: Grede Park Irrigation Installation (no bids received; to be rebid). - Future item: A tour of the Clean Water Plant will be scheduled for July, as requested by members Micklitz and Molson.
The Waukesha Landmarks Commission met on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 12:00 PM UTC to approve several certificates of appropriateness and paint and repair grants. No public comments were offered. The commission approved minutes from three previous meetings, reviewed four property improvement requests, and heard reports from an alderman and the Springs Committee. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: - Minutes for March 11, 2026 (Item 26-03187) were approved with one abstention (member not present at that meeting). - Minutes for April 8, 2026 (Item 26-03482) were approved with one abstention. - Minutes for May 6, 2026 (Item 26-03638) were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comment during the designated public comment period. Discussion Items - Paint and Repair Grant Funds Overview: Charlie summarized the program: grants typically cover 15% of costs up to $3,000; total fund is $25,000; $10,485 already approved; $2,432 remain from a 2025 project; $14,515 available this year. Approvals require county and Shippo compliance and a finding that work prevents future blight. - Certificate of Appropriateness – 818 Northeast Avenue (Former Convent, St. Joseph's Complex): Applicant Andy Dieski (facilities manager for Corpus Christi) proposed replacing the roof with Owens Corning Oak Ridge shingles (brown wood color) and flat roof membrane. An emergency COA had been approved May 13, 2026, but the flat roof was patched instead. The motion to approve as proposed passed unanimously. - Certificate of Appropriateness – 312 East College Avenue (Irwin and Margaret Lubbers house, McCall Street Historic District): Applicant Brian Running (homeowner, city attorney) proposed demolishing and rebuilding the chimney to match existing dimensions using cream city brick and soft mortar. Commission members noted that a new concrete cap and flue guard were included. A member expressed appreciation for doing the work properly. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Paint and Repair Grant – 312 East College Avenue: Motion to award 15% ($1,470) of the estimated $9,800 project cost. Motion passed unanimously. - Certificate of Appropriateness – 353 West Broadway (Hannon's Pub, Five Points Downtown Historic District): Prospective buyer Samiya Pickens (address W220S 3306 Racine Avenue) proposed replacing the flat roof with white TPO membrane and repairing the parapet cap. The building is non-contributing due to facade alterations. The roof is not visible from street level. Commission members praised the good-faith effort. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Certificate of Appropriateness – 323 McCall Street (Queen Anne house, McCall Street Historic District): Homeowners Mary Louise Lillian proposed tuckpointing the original stone foundation using mortar matching the existing profile (some raised, some concave). They also inquired about adding a commercial-grade silicone sealer ($250 add-on) to protect from moisture; commission members recommended it. Motion to approve the COA passed unanimously. - Paint and Repair Grant – 323 McCall Street: Motion to award 15% ($322.50) of the estimated $2,150 cost (including the sealer) passed unanimously. - Alderman's Report: The city received its Community Development Block Grant funding approved the previous night (same $2,500 as applied). Also announced Waukesha Unlocked event dates: October 10–11, 2026, featuring historic homes and Prairie Home Cemetery. - Springs Report: Tony Lanza’s group may help with spring maintenance. Hobo Spring basin was drained and found clean. A referral was made to public works to study a long-term solution for the spring. - Communications and Publications: The July meeting is scheduled for July 1, 2026; discussion of possible reschedule to July 8 due to member availability was tabled, with July 1 retained unless a heavy agenda necessitates change. Key Outcomes - All three sets of meeting minutes were approved (with one abstention each for March and April). - Certificates of appropriateness were approved for: - 818 Northeast Avenue (roof replacement) – unanimous. - 312 East College Avenue (chimney replacement) – unanimous. - 353 West Broadway (roof replacement) – unanimous. - 323 McCall Street (tuckpointing) – unanimous. - Paint and repair grants were awarded: - 312 East College Avenue: $1,470 (15% of $9,800). - 323 McCall Street: $322.50 (15% of $2,150, including optional sealer). - The meeting adjourned following communications.
Waukesha City Council Meeting - June 2, 2026\n\nThe Waukesha City Council met on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall. All 15 aldermen were present. The meeting lasted 38 minutes, adjourning at 6:38 PM. Key actions included declaring five city-owned properties (7.55 acres) as surplus land, approving the 2027 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) allocation resolution, awarding two public works contracts totaling $1,112,395.40, approving a liquor license for Cobblestone Hotel & Suites, and approving board and commission appointments. Public comment focused on the Pride Month proclamation and the future of one surplus property.\n\n Consent Calendar\n- Transit Commission Items: Approved purchase of fareboxes from SPX Genfare (ID26-03423), purchase of replacement passenger signs at Transit Center (ID26-03634), amendment to Clear Channel bus shelter agreement (ID26-03636), and service changes effective August 24, 2026 (ID26-03639).\n- Plan Commission Items: Extraterritorial Certified Survey Map (CSM) for Davies, Summit Avenue (10.49 acres, 2 lots + 2 outlots); CSM for 1535 E Racine Avenue (2 lots on 0.94 acres); CSM for 211 and 233 Maple Avenue, Carroll University (combine into 1 lot of 3.382 acres).\n- Finance Committee: No items provided.\n- Building & Grounds Committee: No items provided.\n- Ordinance & License Committee: Licenses placed under regular agenda.\n- Human Resources Committee: Approved revised HR Policy G7 Drug & Alcohol-Free Workplace (ID26-03646).\n- Board of Public Works Items: 2025 WDNR Compliance Maintenance Annual Report (CMAR) (ID26-03644) and Change Order No. 2 with J.F. Ahern Co. for Clean Water Plant Phase 3 Improvements (ID26-03659).\n\nAll consent items passed unanimously with no items removed.\n\n Public Comments & Testimony\n- Annette Kuglitsch (316 E. Wabash Avenue) opposed the Pride Month proclamation, arguing it divides the city and gives special recognition to a small minority, while suggesting alternative proclamations like a 250th anniversary of American independence or a Fidelity Month.\n- Elizabeth Bruders (123 Hineman Avenue) also opposed the proclamation, stating it shows special privileges rather than equality, and expressed concern about taxpayer funds being used and the lack of council discussion/vote.\n- Kathy Briggs (3022 Rolling Ridge Drive) opposed the proclamation, calling it unnecessary since Pride Month is already widely recognized, and advocated instead for a month honoring veterans, law enforcement, and first responders.\n- Lisa Salb (434 Madison Street) addressed the water utility surplus property at 115 Delafield Street, urging the council to consider leasing it rather than selling, citing historic features (stone wall, water dome), existing investments in the property, and compatibility with the historic neighborhood. She stated she is not against development but wants appropriate redevelopment.\n\n Discussion Items\n- Surplus Land Declaration (ID26-03694): Jennifer Andrews (city staff) explained the statutory process: the water utility identified five sites (1430 S East Ave, 2320 W Sunset Dr, 3815 Creekside Dr, 115 Delafield St, and parcel WAKC 1382-002 along Center Road) totaling 7.55 acres that will be decommissioned. The council’s action is only to declare them surplus; future discussions will address lease or sale. Ald. Lemke moved to approve, stating he is against leasing city property. Ald. Chrisien expressed support based on past redevelopment discussions. Ald. Van Trieste requested location of the Center Road parcel. The motion passed 15-0.\n- 2027 CDBG Allocation Resolution (ID26-03597): Jeff (city staff) explained the city receives about $233,000 annually from HUD as an entitlement community. The citizen advisory committee recommended allocating 85% to facilities, housing, and economic development (including historic paint repair grant, public art fund, wayfinding signs, Buckner Park ADA/playground surface, and a new ADA crosswalk at Grandview Boulevard) and 15% to programs (senior activity coordinator, adaptive education specialist, and summer swim program). Ald. Pieper moved to approve. Ald. Camacho noted the allocation was balanced. Ald. Pieper added that the Grandview crosswalk project is timely after a recent pedestrian accident. The motion passed 15-0.\n- Revised Municipal Code Chapter 9 (ID26-03603): City Attorney Brian reported this would be the third reading, but the actual ordinance form was not attached to the agenda before the publication deadline. He recommended holding it for the next meeting. No action taken.\n- Cobblestone Hotel & Suites and Wissota Chophouse Liquor License (ID26-03716): Ald. Wuteska reported no concerns or permit issues. He moved to approve the Reserve "Class B" Beer & Liquor License. Seconded by Ald. Helgestad. Passed 15-0.\n- Public Works Bids: \n - Burr Oak Sanitary Sewer Lining and Relay (ID26-03654): Low bid from Super Excavators, Inc. for $398,821.00. Motion by Ald. Pieper, second by Ald. Wuteska. Passed 15-0.\n - Prairie Park and Banting Park Facility Upgrades (ID26-03652): Low bid from WIL-Surge Electric, Inc. for $713,574.40. Includes resurfacing courts, fencing, and lighting installation. Motion by Ald. Pieper, second by Ald. Wuteska. Passed 15-0.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Approved Minutes: May 19, 2026 minutes were approved with a correction (noting Ald. Mike Anderson voted for Fetters, not Neach). Vote: 15-0.\n- Surplus Land Declaration: Approved 15-0 to declare five water utility properties as surplus.\n- 2027 CDBG Allocation Resolution: Approved 15-0, with approximately $233,000 in federal funds allocated for specific projects and programs.\n- Liquor License Approval: Approved 15-0 for Cobblestone Hotel & Suites and Wissota Chophouse.\n- Board and Commission Appointments: Approved 15-0 to reappoint Curt Otto to Police & Fire Commission, appoint Becky Fetters to Community Development Block Grant Committee, Tim Nekich to Board of Zoning Appeals, and Karol Kennedy to Public Library Board.\n- Proclamation: Mayor Alicia Halvensleben proclaimed June as Pride Month in the City of Waukesha.\n- Referrals: Several items referred to committees: Ald. Evert (ONL for ordinance amendment for Maddie’s Bar), Ald. Van Trieste (Buildings & Grounds for speed signage on Metal Lane), Ald. Matthews (Buildings & Grounds for speed study on River Valley Road), Ald. Wells (Buildings & Grounds for cross traffic stop signs at Chapman and Spring City Drive), and Ald. Camacho (Buildings & Grounds for no-parking sign on Evans Street side of Dobbs Street).\n\n Other Reports\n- City Administrator: Noted Waukesha was ranked 87th best place to live in the U.S. (2nd in Wisconsin) by U.S. News & World Report, and 8th safest mid-sized city in the U.S. (safest in Wisconsin) by Smart Asset.\n- City Attorney: Announced a proposed ordinance regarding e-bikes, e-scooters, and electric vehicles on sidewalks will be presented to ONL committee next Monday.
The Building and Grounds Committee met on Monday, June 1, 2026, with Chair presiding and Alders Micklitz, Helgestad, Van Traste, and Evert present. The meeting included approval of minutes, discussion of a crosswalk improvement, a proposed parking ordinance change, a referral for pedestrian safety on Michigan Avenue, and a budget update. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the May 4, 2026 meeting were approved by unanimous consent. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present for comment. Discussion Items - Item 5A: Crosswalk improvements on Hoover Avenue at Mindiola Park – Staff presented a proposal to install static pedestrian warning signs and enhanced crosswalk pavement markings at the mid-block crossing connecting the parking lot to the playing fields. Alderman Mannion spoke in favor, noting support from the Park and Recreation Department (Ron Groll and Greg Wilcox). He also shared a concern from Alderman Wells about drivers potentially yielding less outside marked crosswalks and a suggestion to paint parking lines to narrow the travel lane. Traffic counts showed 673 vehicles on Friday, 790 on Saturday, and 57 on Sunday. No traffic study was conducted. The committee voted unanimously to recommend approval. - Item 6A: Modifying overnight parking ordinance (odd/even) to November 1–April 1 – Alderman Van Traste introduced the item to address parking conflicts between townhouse and single-family home residents in his district. Staff outlined potential impacts: a 10% reduction in citation revenue (approx. $12,000), need to review street widths, signage updates, and coordination with fire, police, and public works. Several committee members expressed opposition, citing complexity, re-education costs, street sweeping difficulties, and the unpredictability of Wisconsin winters (snow can occur outside the proposed dates). The fire chief also opposed. No motion was made; the item failed for lack of a motion. - Item 6B: Pedestrian accommodations on Michigan Avenue – Alderman Micklitz requested a study for mid-block crossing and speed reduction measures between McKenzie and Green Meadow Drives, noting heavy pedestrian traffic between North High School and Lowell Park. Staff indicated a larger traffic study would be needed. The chair proposed developing standardized criteria for traffic study requests (e.g., no repeat studies within five years, use of a form, committee approval). This was a discussion item only; the referral will be brought back for possible action at the next meeting. - Item 6C: Building and grounds budget update – Staff reported no changes: beginning balance $17,126.78, $5,392.48 spent, remaining $11,734.30. Costs discussed: stop sign $225 plus $75 post, crosswalk painting about $300, traffic study $3,000–$5,000. Key Outcomes - Approved: Recommendation to install pedestrian warning signs and enhanced crosswalk markings on Hoover Avenue at Mindiola Park (unanimous vote). - Failed: Proposed modification to overnight parking ordinance (no motion made). - Deferred: Item 6B (Michigan Avenue study) to next meeting for potential action. - Noted: Budget remains unchanged; committee discussed costs for future projects. The meeting adjourned without objection.
The Waukesha Plan Commission met on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. All members were present except Commissioner RG Keller (excused). The commission approved consent items, held public hearings on two conditional use permits, reviewed several site plans and survey maps, and recommended declaring five water utility properties as surplus. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of April 22, 2026. - Approved three consent items unanimously: Minor Site Plan & Architectural Review for a 70-foot radio tower at 3103 Saylesville Road (Water Utility); Minor Site Plan & Architectural Review for an 800 sq ft concrete pad at 800 Philip Drive (The Gund Company); Extraterritorial Certified Survey Map for a 10.49-acre 2-lot/2-outlot CSM on Summit Avenue in the Town of Delafield; Certified Survey Map combining 211 and 233 Maple Avenue into one 3.382-acre lot (Carroll University). Public Comments & Testimony - Lisa Sell (434 Madison Street) spoke regarding the proposed declaration of five water utility sites as surplus. She expressed support for preserving the historic character of the 115 Delafield Street property (describing a fieldstone hut and birdbath) and requested that any future development (e.g., a coffee shop) maintain the site's history. She also questioned whether the property extends under a nearby bridge and asked the city to ensure the bridge would not be endangered. She referenced the city's surplus property policy (amended August 2025) requiring surplus assets not be disposed of when they could be reused by a city department, and noted that parking under the bridge might serve a city need. She urged the commission to consider preservation. Discussion Items Public Hearings: Conditional Use Permits - 400 W Sunset Drive – Juanito Motor Auto Care LLC (B-3 General Business District): Staff (Charlie Griffith) presented a request for a conditional use permit for an auto repair business in an existing building. The site is approximately 400–600 feet from the nearest residential use. The building would have a small waiting area and space for seven vehicles; 1–2 employees; hours 9 AM–7 PM, up to seven days a week. No body work or painting; all work inside with doors closed. Staff recommended approval with conditions: vehicles must be licensed/operable and stored ≤20 days, at least 2 employee + 1 customer parking spaces, no auto sales, all other permits required (including occupancy permit with change-of-use analysis). No public testimony. Commission approved unanimously. - 2100 Airport Road – Wisconsin Metal Parts LLC (M-3 Limited Business Industrial Park District): Staff presented a request for a conditional use permit for metal machining, stamping, fabrication, and powder coating in an existing 90,000 sq ft warehouse/3,000 sq ft office building. The site has significant landscaping. The applicant may use an existing gravel drive at the rear for outside storage or airport access; if used, it must be paved and approved via future site plan review. Staff recommended approval with conditions: obtain occupancy permit, provide change-of-use analysis, either return gravel drive to grass or pave it before occupancy, and address fire department comments. Commissioner Wells noted potential history of the gravel drive with a neighboring business (Hawes) and asked for coordination. Commission approved unanimously. Business Items - Final Site Plan & Architectural Review – 245 N Barstow Street, Carroll University (I-1 Institutional District): Staff presented plans for a new 55,000 sq ft, three-story business school building replacing a temporary 30+ year-old building. The design complements historic campus buildings (tan brick, red roof, two-story glass wall). The building will include classrooms, offices, an outdoor classroom, and a rooftop mechanical area fully screened. Parking will be reduced from 303 to 100 stalls, with green space added. A separate parking lot at 211/233 Maple Avenue (approved via consent agenda) will compensate. The university representative, Tom Heffman, requested leniency on a last-minute city request for a sidewalk on the west side of Barstow Street (≈$50,000), stating they plan to pursue a street vacation to create a promenade. Commission agreed to remove the sidewalk condition. Motion approved with staff conditions (black-coated chain-link fencing for generator, trees in all parking lot islands), Commissioner Granger abstained. - Certified Survey Map – 1535 E Racine Avenue: Request to split a 0.94-acre parcel into two lots: Lot 1 (0.39 acres, vacant) and Lot 2 (0.55 acres, existing commercial). The vacant lot is intended to be incorporated into the Hawks Landing duplex development, accessing via Garden Prairie Drive easement. Developer Eric Sandarcy explained he needs the split now to cost-effectively install sewer/water infrastructure for the duplex project, planned for August/September 2026. Commissioner Molson expressed concern about creating a landlocked parcel if the development doesn't proceed. Staff noted the lot has access via an easement and touches Jill's Drive. Commission approved unanimously subject to staff comments. - Minor Site Plan & Architectural Review – 1101 W St. Paul Avenue, INNIO: Request to remodel the main entrance, improving visibility and accessibility with a glass curtain wall and metal panel framing. The work is within an existing setback that received a dimensional variance from the Board of Zoning Appeals. Staff recommended approval, noting sign permits will be required for future signage. Commission approved unanimously. - Review and Possible Action to Declare Five City-Owned Properties as Surplus Land: The Water Utility identified five sites no longer needed: 1430 S East Ave (1.7 acres, reservoir), 2320 W Sunset Dr (2 acres, reservoir), 3815 Creekside Dr (pump house resembling a house), 115 Delafield St (0.66 acres, utility offices, near City Hall with a bridge section), and a vacant parcel along Center Road (2 acres, M-3 zoned). Staff sent notices to all department directors; no department expressed need. The commission serves as a recommending body to the Common Council. Motion to recommend approval passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda items: radio tower, concrete pad, extraterritorial CSM (Davies), and CSM for Carroll University (211/233 Maple Ave). - Approved Conditional Use Permit for 400 W Sunset Drive (Juanito Motor Auto Care) with staff conditions. - Approved Conditional Use Permit for 2100 Airport Road (Wisconsin Metal Parts) with staff conditions. - Approved Final Site Plan & Architectural Review for Carroll University business school at 245 N Barstow Street, subject to conditions (trees in parking islands, black-coated fencing), with sidewalk requirement deferred. - Approved Certified Survey Map for 1535 E Racine Avenue splitting into two lots, with staff comments. - Approved Minor Site Plan & Architectural Review for INNIO entrance remodel at 1101 W St. Paul Avenue. - Recommended to Common Council declaration of surplus land for five Water Utility properties. - Discussion about special meeting for zoning code updates; potential date June 10 or defer to regular June meeting.
The City of Waukesha Board of Review met on May 22, 2026, to conduct its annual organizational meeting and hear property tax objections. The board elected officers, adopted policies, and reviewed the assessment roll before hearing three formal objections from property owners challenging their 2026 assessments. The board upheld the assessor’s valuations in all three cases. Consent Calendar - Officer Elections: Sarah Roth was elected Chairperson and Eric Dunst was elected Vice-Chairperson. - Policy Adoption: The City of Waukesha Board of Review Policy for May 2026 was unanimously adopted. - Assessment Roll Review: The clerk confirmed receipt of the assessment roll. The board examined the roll and found no errors, omissions, or double-assessed properties. - Corrections & Open Book: The board certified 13 corrections and omissions (12 corrections, 1 omission). The assessor reported 42 open book requests resulting in 60 reviews, with 80% of those resulting in value changes. - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the July 29, 2025 meeting were approved. Public Comments & Testimony (Objection Hearings) 1. Shute Properties / Brian Shute (315 Arlington Street) - Owner’s Position: Brian Shute argued the property value should be $255,000 (his September 2025 purchase price), not the assessor’s adjusted value of $326,800. He cited deferred maintenance and a for-sale-by-owner transaction, providing three 2025 comparable sales ($240,000 to $286,000) to support his claim. - Assessor’s Position: Assessor Joe testified the $326,800 valuation was based on photos of the property. He stated Wisconsin law required using 2024 sales for the 2025 reassessment, not the 2025 sales offered by the owner. His four comparables, sold in 2024 and adjusted for differences, produced an adjusted sale price range of $320,100 to $339,900. - Board Decision: The board found the owner did not provide sufficient evidence to overcome the assessor’s presumption of correctness. A motion to sustain the $326,800 assessment carried unanimously (Roth, Miller). 2. Paul and Joanne Clume / John Noggle (416 Blue Mound Road) - Owner’s Position: Owners Janelle Clume and their accountant John Noggle argued the corrected assessment of $2,386,400 was unreasonable, representing a 72% increase from the prior year’s $1,386,500. They requested a value of $1,650,000, citing the sale of the nearby Waukesha Veterinary Clinic for $1.6 million as a comparable commercial property. They argued the high tax burden reduced the property’s marketability. - Assessor’s Position: Assessor Lori testified the $5 million initial valuation was an assessor error corrected to $2,386,400. She argued the Vet Clinic was not comparable (office/labs vs warehouse). The owner failed to submit income and expense data within the statutory deadline, preventing an income approach analysis. She presented sales of warehouse, contractor shops, and office-warehouse properties. - Board Decision: The board sustained the $2,386,400 assessment, finding the owner’s evidence insufficient to rebut the assessor’s market data. Motion carried unanimously (Roth, Miller). 3. LRG LLC / Wayne (Pivotal Tax) (1901 East Moreland Boulevard) - Owner’s Position: Agent Wayne from Pivotal Tax argued for a value of $4,174,138 based on the Marshall & Swift cost approach for the Volvo dealership. He criticized the city’s $6,555,900 valuation as excessive, particularly for the service garage portion of the property. He argued the assessor over-relied on the sales approach for this unique property type. - Assessor’s Position: Assessor Sam presented one comparable dealership sale from 2023 in Waukesha County. Noting 2026 was a maintenance year, the assessor argued the value must remain uniform with the last market adjustment year. The assessor relied on market data rather than the cost approach. - Board Decision: The board sustained the $6,555,900 valuation, deferring to the assessor’s market approach over the owner’s cost analysis. The motion passed 2-1 (Roth and Miller in favor; Eric Jones dissenting). Key Outcomes - Newly Elected Officials: Chairperson Sarah Roth, Vice-Chairperson Eric Dunst. - Waivers: Approved direct circuit court appeals for SBV Fox River, Menards, and Walmart (all were in litigation). Denied the 48-hour notice waiver for RCL Investments. Approved telephone testimony for LRG LLC. - Objection 1 (315 Arlington St): Assessment of $326,800 sustained unanimously. - Objection 2 (416 Blue Mound Rd): Assessment of $2,386,400 sustained unanimously. - Objection 3 (1901 East Moreland Blvd): Assessment of $6,555,900 sustained (2-1 majority, Jones dissenting). - Adjournment: The board determined no additional board of review dates were needed and adjourned.