La Crosse · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in La Crosse public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Ott House local landmark designation, 1512 Winnebago Street
One of La Crosse's 10 oldest surviving homes could become a local historic landmark. The owner-nominators spent hours in archives tracing the house's history, including its move from downtown around 1911-12. A public hearing and final decision come October 22.
Underage drinking enforcement and bar license suspensions
Two downtown bars got 10-day license suspensions after underage-drinking complaints, but the council pushed the start dates to Sept. 28 to protect staff paychecks. The split 8-5 votes exposed a real debate about fairness, favoritism and how the city holds both businesses and licensed bartenders accountable.
Creation of the Office of City Administrator
A charter ordinance would create a city administrator position and move duties out of the mayor's office — a major change in how city government is structured and run.
Rezoning for drive-thru restaurant at 4358 Mormon Coulee Rd
The city rezoned a parcel on Mormon Coulee Road from Planned Development to Commercial, unlocking a restaurant with a drive-thru. It's now a decided matter, so the project can move forward.
Citgo on State liquor license denial
The council unanimously denied TAC Citgo Inc.'s application for Class A liquor and beer licenses at 1914 State Rd., following the J&A committee's recommendation with a 12-month waiting period.
Park operations strained by homelessness-related activity
The parks director laid out blunt realities: Burns Park dumpsters need emptying three times a day, Riverside Park restrooms have had 75+ clog incidents this year, park hours were cut to 9 p.m., and staff are cleaning encampments in dangerous spots. He said parks can't solve homelessness through park operations alone.
Citizens' petition for a Healthcare Action Committee
A citizen petition seeks to create a Citizens' Advisory Healthcare Action Committee by ordinance; the mayor short-circuited the petition on July 23, 2026, and the clerk's certificate was on the agenda.
City Administrator Ordinance
A La Crosse council member has released a guide to the proposed City Administrator ordinance ahead of August meetings. The change could reshape how city government runs, so it's worth a quick look if you care about local decision-making.
Surplus Property Declaration
The La Crosse Common Council declared the North Side Library site surplus property, which lets the city sell or repurpose that land. If you’re on the North Side, this is a signal that the future of that block is now officially up for discussion—and possibly redevelopment.
Liquor license nonrenewals for two local businesses
The city has signaled it intends not to renew the alcohol licenses of Tequila's Mexican Restaurant and the Citgo on State Road, and both businesses got hearings to argue their case. The outcomes affect whether these neighborhood businesses can keep serving alcohol — and in the gas station's case, selling tobacco and vaping products.
ADA accessibility improvements
The city is finishing facility inspections for its ADA transition plan, which will map out how La Crosse becomes fully accessible — a long and expensive process. Sidewalk trip hazards and curb ramp design are daily concerns for residents.
City Hall renovation
La Crosse City Hall's top floor might get its first big renovation next year. That means city staff offices could finally get a much-needed upgrade. No word yet on cost or timeline.
City purchase of 300 Second Street South property
The city is negotiating to buy a parcel at 300 Second Street South. Details — price, intended use, and terms — were discussed behind closed doors and aren't public yet.
Short-term Rental Regulation
La Crosse’s Common Council has passed new rules for short-term rentals like Airbnbs. If you host one or stay in one, expect new compliance requirements and possible cost or availability changes.
First Amendment challenge to proposed ordinance
A conservative legal group is warning La Crosse that a proposed ordinance could violate free speech rights before the City Council passes it. The fight matters because it could shape what the city can regulate when it comes to protests and public expression.
Highway Expansion Opposition
La Crosse is pushing back against the state DOT’s plan to expand the highway through town, arguing the city doesn’t want a bigger road cutting it up. The fight matters because it affects traffic, walkability, and how tax dollars get spent.