Justin Annen

The meeting involved addressing correspondence, which included communications regarding the Sentry site plan, the golf course rezoning (both for and against), and Joint Rock Lake Committee minutes. Key discussions focused on the Sandy Beach Food Service options for a park shelter, where the council considered various structural examples ranging from basic open-air shelters to options including full catering kitchens, and weighing these against cost implications. The council also clarified its role versus the Library Board's role regarding the construction bids and oversight for the new library building. Finally, the council addressed a question regarding the scope of action planned for a forthcoming Special Planning Commission meeting.

The meeting involved public comment regarding the future of the Lake Mills Golf Course, with several residents advocating for its preservation and suggesting improvements based on successful comparable courses. The primary agenda item was a public hearing concerning a zoning amendment request by Harvey Properties to change the zoning of parcels at 204 East Lake Street and 105 South Madison Street from B1 to a Downtown Business District with a Planned Development overlay. The applicant presented plans for a four-story mixed-use building featuring 100 residential units (including studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments) and ground-floor commercial space. The presentation detailed architectural considerations to harmonize with the historic downtown, addressing previous staff comments regarding facade rhythm, material choices (lighter brick), awnings, lighting, and parking visibility. A key discussion point was the request for an exception to the 800 square foot minimum for apartment units, as proposed studio units fall into the 500 to 600 square foot range. Public comment also addressed concerns over building density and architectural texture.

The Common Council meeting included roll call and the pledge of allegiance. Key agenda items involved the acceptance of minutes from the February 3rd meeting and Public Works/Parks Board minutes from their January meetings. Council members provided reports, noting contacts regarding a golf course rezoning proposal and a referendum ordinance. A public comment session included a resident speaking about preserving the golf course and upcoming public hearings. Council business focused heavily on approving Resolution 26-09, confirming the City Manager's appointment of Lucas Kaine as Director of Utilities. Additionally, the council reviewed Resolution 26-10, approving the 2026 street and sidewalk maintenance plan, which involved detailed discussion on funding, street condition ratings (Pacer ratings), maintenance backlog, and proposed spending for chip seal, mill and overlay projects, and sidewalk hazard repairs. The City Manager also noted that the start date for the new Public Works Director was moved up to March 2nd.

The meeting commenced with the call to order for the February 10, 2026, session. Key discussions focused on the 2026 street maintenance update, including details on the total street mileage and the Pacer rating program, which currently shows an average rating of 6.6, reflecting a steady decline over recent years. The structure of the 7-year maintenance cycle involving chip seal, mill and overlay, and reconstruction was reviewed, along with the associated costs. A significant portion of the presentation detailed the financial history, noting a large funding effort in 2017 and 2018, and the current consistent $300,000 budget, which results in a backlog. Last year's expenditures for various maintenance activities, including concrete work, chip sealing, and mill and overlay, were summarized. The board discussed the creation of the 2026 maintenance candidate list, which indicated a $958,000 required cost to complete the backlog, currently exceeding the $300,000 budget. The speaker noted a proposal to utilize a $392,000 budget reserve, which is strictly designated for street purposes, to address the backlog. Updates were also provided regarding the confirmation of the new public works director, Brian Peterson, whose start date is March 10th.

The primary focus of the meeting involved public commentary regarding the proposed rezoning of the current golf course property for the development of over 100 homes. Several residents expressed strong opposition, arguing that developing the golf course contradicts the 2023 comprehensive community growth plan, which designated the area as parks and open space. Concerns were raised about the resulting negative impact on property values for existing homeowners near the course, the loss of a community asset vital for tourism and recreation, and the potential damage to Lake Mills' unique character, often described as a 'diamond.' Speakers also questioned the financial justification for the rezoning, citing significant potential property value loss and the owner's failure to provide financial records demonstrating the business is failing. Comments also touched upon the importance of golf participation being on the rise for young people and women.