Fish lab, other zoning changes go before La Crosse city council Thursday for vote

A zoning change for the former fish lab in Riverside Park, as well as one for a four-story building on the south side could be decided Thursday night by the La Crosse city council. 

At 6 p.m., the council meets at the Southside Neighborhood Center (map) or online by clicking here. The complete agenda can be found here.
Members of the public who would like to provide written comments on any agenda item may do so by emailing [email protected] or call 608-789-7510.

The council will also meet early to hear a presentation on a 58-page energy report found here. La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds scheduled the session for 5:45 p.m. for environmental planner Lewis Kuhlman.

In regards to the Fish Lab building on the north end of Riverside Park, developers want to use the property for an Airbnb and a beer garden. 

People living near the park have complained that there would be too much traffic and noise if the plan were approved. Some have also accused city leaders of making backroom deals in favor of the project, months before seeking any public comments on the plan.

Another proposed zoning change is to allow for a new four-story building at the Bethany Lutheran Homes on 7th Street South. The facility is needed so seniors living there now don’t have to double up, Bethany has said.

Neighbors of the facility worry that allowing a high-rise at the current nursing home will lead to even taller buildings being put up near their homes.

The council may also vote on a resolution to welcome refugees from Afghanistan to the community.