More new housing, and a possible local sales tax are goals for La Crosse, set by departing Mayor Reynolds

Providing new housing in La Crosse is a goal being set for city government this year, and pretty much every year for the near future, according to Mayor Mitch Reynolds.

The mayor, whose term ends in April, gave his final state of the city speech last week, during the January city council meeting. Reynolds spoke about the projected need for additional homes.

“According to the recently completed housing study, our city needs to add upwards of 200 new homes annually to meet demand and insure economic vitality,” said Reynolds. He cited the 5th Ward residences, the Collective on 4th, and the development at River Point District along Copeland Avenue as areas where new housing is being occupied or still being developed.

Mayor Reynolds pointed to the Pathways Home project, which has a goal of achieving zero homelessness in the community this year. He says continued cooperation with La Crosse County government will be needed to increase the supply of housing.

The mayor says the existing process of paying for city government needs some changes, as he called for one specific new tax.

“I am joining those advocating with the governor’s office and state representatives to allow municipalities like ours to adopt a local sales tax,” said Reynolds. “As a diversified revenue source, this is a financial necessity, and a tool for our city to maintain and enhance essential services for residents.

The speech included references to public services that are improving in La Crosse.  That includes the recent opening of new fire and police stations, and the expansion of the La Crosse wastewater treatment plant.