Apartment building gets council support over neighbor opposition

It looks like apartments will replace the former Big Brothers Big Sisters office on 5th Avenue in La Crosse, despite opposition from neighbors. 

The city council has approved a zoning change to allow an apartment complex to be built there. 

Council member Chris Kahlow points out many vocal objections have come from the Washburn neighborhood.

“More than 20 per cent of the neighbors did file legal objections, and I’ve had quite a few phone calls on this issues as well,” said Kahlow, “and I think that we should just support the neighbors on this item since I feel and trust that they know what’s best for their neighborhood.”

is concerned about reducing homelessness.

“The people who are working at the restaurants downtown who are not making a lot of money need to have a place to live,” said Happel. “Otherwise, we have homeless people.”

Councilman Gary Padesky says people were opposed to building the La Crosse Center 40 years ago, and he suggests La Crosse “wouldn’t have a downtown” any more without that civic center.          

Padesky, from the 7th district, did not seek another term in this week’s election, and he chose to resign after last night’s council session instead of staying until the new council members are sworn in April 20th.  He will continue to represent the same neighborhood on the La Crosse County Board.