More new housing, 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, who will be on WIZM’s La Crosse Talk on Wednesday, gave his final State of the City speech last week, during the January city council meeting. Reynolds, whose term ends in April, 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.

Reynolds also pointed to the Pathways Home project, the plan to end homelessness in the city. He said continued cooperation with La Crosse County government will be needed to increase the supply of housing.

The mayor added that 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,” Reynolds said. “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.