WEIGH IN AUGUST 5!

A behind-the-paywall article in today's La Crosse Tribune describes the sudden renewal of efforts to add a $280,000/year city administrator to La Crosse's hierarchy. (Sometimes, a pay walled  article that has been archived at https://archive.is is available to read.) You can read newspapers at the public library.

The article notes that, "The Aug. 5 Judiciary & Administration committee will be the first public deliberation of the idea since February, when the resolution narrowly failed to secure a council supermajority. In that time, council members’ positions appear to have shifted significantly — and in all directions.

"Of the six council members who voted “no” in February, two have signaled cautious support, two said they were staunchly opposed and two were unwilling to reveal their current position."

Proponents say an administrator will save money but offer no proof. 

The position would add to the large personnel budget of a city with a budget deficit that is already not funding prior commitments like the Climate Action Plan. We have lost two libraries and a public swimming pool in just the last year. Our parks are underfunded and fees and utility costs are rising. While supporters say it will not diminish the role of the elected mayor, this powerfil, new, unelected person would assume mayor-like duties and report to the council. (Read the legislation below or at the legistar link).

The only opportunity to speak on this before a few council members is the Judiciary and Administration Committee on August 5 at 6 p.m. in the council chambers. (A data center moratorium is also on the agenda #26-0749 as well as the amended Bike-Ped Master Plan #26-0703) There are no opportunities for public input at meetings of the full council except by a special council vote.

There is also a District 12 Forum tonight at 6 p.m. at Central High School where CM Lisa Weston and the Mayor will be present.

People can contact the council members using an an online form and also email the city clerk and the Mayor (reference agenda item 26-0741). You can read the legislation and accompanying documents here: https://cityoflacrosse.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=8140160&GUID=652A47C6-6752-4F09-8935-A78BAB40F26F&Options=&Search=