Development News for Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin

Planning Commission Recommends Denial of 80-Foot Stealth Tower in Village Center

The Planning Commission considered a request for a conditional use permit for an 80-foot wireless communication facility (stealth tower) at N89W16785 Appleton Avenue, in the C2 Community Business Zoning District with a Village Center overlay. Staff recommended denial based on nine reasons, primarily citing inconsistencies with zoning code requirements, height, design theme, visual dominance, lack of compatibility with historic character, and potential impact on historic resources. The applicant, AT&T Wireless, argued that the facility is necessary for public safety (FirstNet) and general coverage, presented photo simulations, and proposed a stealth design to mitigate visual impact. They also suggested a monopole structure would be less costly and potentially acceptable. The applicant's attorney argued that state law limits a village's ability to deny towers based solely on aesthetics or height. Residents expressed concerns about the tower's visibility, impact on historic character, and potential coverage issues. The commission voted to recommend denial to the Village Board.

Hop Yard Ale Works Granted Sign Exception for Additional Signage

The Planning Commission considered a request for a sign exemption for Hop Yard Ale Works to install two additional wall signs and one blade sign on Mill Street. The property is located at Main Street and Mill Street, within a planned infill development and the village center overlay zone. Staff recommended approval with the condition of applying for a sign permit. After discussion regarding the blade sign on Mill Street, the commission voted unanimously to grant the request.

TID 12 Amendment Approved to Support TID 6, Extending TID 12's Closure

The Planning Commission reviewed a proposed amendment to the project plan for Tax Incremental District (TID) 12. The amendment is solely to establish a donor relationship with TID 6, transferring approximately $4.2 million in donations from TID 12 to TID 6 to help resolve TID 6's financial deficit. This transfer will extend the closure of TID 12 from the current year to 2032, but it will still close before its mandatory termination in 2035. The commission unanimously recommended adopting the amended project plan and resolution to the Village Board.

New Tax Incremental District (TID) 20 Proposed for Redevelopment of Former Kohl's Innovation Center

The commission held a public hearing for the proposed creation of Tax Incremental District (TID) 20, a single-parcel district located at the former Kohl's Innovation Center. The purpose is to facilitate the redevelopment of the site into a functional industrial facility, which requires significant investment. The proposed project is expected to add approximately $10.4 million in value, bringing the total to $30 million. A pay-as-you-go development incentive of $2.4 million is proposed. The district will have a 20-year life, and the village's incremental value will be 7.8%, well under the 12% statutory limit. Concerns were raised by adjacent residents regarding potential impacts on property values, noise, and drainage. The commission voted unanimously to recommend the creation of TID 20 and its project plan to the Village Board.