Mayor listening to feedback, still plans on eliminating La Crosse’s public works dept.

City council votes Monday night

La Crosse’s mayor is hopeful his plan to cut a department head makes it through a city council vote Monday night.  

Mayor Tim Kabat wants to eliminate the public works director position and dissolve the department altogether – a move that will mean a savings next year of $150,000.

“That savings is a big part of how we’re trying to meet all the other needs and balance our budget and continue to help grow the city,” Kabat said. 

Under the current proposal, city staff would figure out how to divvy up the responsibilities and job duties of the public works staff once the department is eliminated.

But Kabat is getting some push back from within city hall. A number of city employees are vocally opposing the move.

“I have challenged the staff,” Kabat said. “I’ve basically said, ‘Look, having a public works director or having that position remain is key for our service, I’m willing to consider that but we do have to realize the budget savings.'”