On the agenda: River Falls meeting — Flock camera (Oct 13)

COMMON COUNCIL AGENDA
October 13, 2026
The public may view/listen to the meeting by:
Viewing the City's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/cityofriverfalls
Call Meeting to Order – 6:30 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
Approval of Minutes – September 22, 2026 Council Meeting, September 22, 2026 Tax Incremental District
Workshop Meeting
Approval of Bills: $
PUBLIC COMMENT, PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Public Comment If you are unable to attend the meeting in person but would like to submit a comment,
please e-mail to the City Clerk’s office ([email protected])
PUBLIC HEARING
2. Second Reading: Ordinance 2026-04 Amending Title 17 Zoning, Chapter 17.08 (Driveway Regulations)
CONSENT AGENDA
3. Resolution Approving WPPI Energy Amendment No. 3 to the Long-Term Power Supply Contract for
Participating Members
4. Resolution Approving a Construction Contract for the Cedar St Improvements & Lametti Interceptor
Replacement
5. Resolution Approving Indivisible River Falls Request for Noise Control Exemption for Special Event
6. Resolution Approving the Repair of Damaged Stormwater Pipe and Bank Stabilization under the South
Main Street Bridge by Total Excavating in the Amount of $87,789.
REPORTS
7. Administrator Report
8. Comptroller Report
9. Mayor’s Good News
NEW BUSINESS
10. Council Discussion: Temporary Moratorium on Data Centers
ADJOURNMENT
NOTE: Any person who has a qualifying disability accommodation the Americans with Disabilities Act that
requires the meeting or materials to be in an accessible location or format, may contact City Clerk Amy White at
(715) 426-3408 or in person at 222 Lewis Street, for accommodations. Requests for accommodation should be
made at least three (3) business days in advance of the meeting. Every effort will be made to arrange
accommodation.
Posted at City Hall 9/30/26; Publish: The Pierce County Journal: 10/7/26 Website: 10/5/26

CITY OF RIVER FALLS, WISCONSIN
COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
September 22, 2026
Mayor Page called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
City Council Members Present: Mei Mei Abdouch, Todd Bjerstedt, Nick Carow, Sean Downing, Diane
Odeen, Rose Walker
City Council Members Absent: Michael Page
Staff Present: City Administrator Scot Simpson; Community Services Director/City Clerk Amy White;
City Attorney Chris Gierhart; Sergeant Travis Rudesill; Utility Director Kevin Westhuis; Assistant
Director of Community Development Emily Shivley; Community Development Director Amy Peterson,
Park and Conservation Manager Brooks Ostendorf; Chief of Staff Jennifer Smith; Finance Director Josh
Solinger; Assistant to the City Administrator Jason Rohloff; IT Technician Joe Reardon
The pledge of allegiance was said.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
September 8, 2026 meeting and workshop minutes
MSC Odeen/Bjerstedt to approve the minutes. Unanimous.
APPROVAL OF BILLS:
MSC Odeen/Bjerstedt moved to approve the bills. Unanimous.
PUBLIC COMMENT, PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
Julie Noyer – Noyer expressed continued concerns about the City’s Flock camera contract, citing
privacy, potential misuse, liability, and community trust. She asked the Council and Police Chief to
engage in further discussion with the community and reconsider the contract in light of new information.
Elizabeth Boudin – Boudin asked for clarification regarding the boundaries of the River Falls Business
Improvement District, noting that the described boundary appears to extend through residential
neighborhoods. She requested clarification on how the City defines the boundary and how it affects
nearby residents.
Alicia Cosgrove – Cosgrove used a hypothetical involving PFAS in food products to illustrate concerns
about having complete and accurate information, particularly regarding brownfields and environmental
risks. She also questioned the availability of City GIS maps.
Beth Rausch – Rausch spoke in support of additional site review for the proposed multi-use sports court
at Glen Park, raising concerns about tree loss, debris, safety, and maintenance costs at the currently
proposed location. She suggested the area near the pickleball courts as an alternative, citing better
sunlight, parking, emergency access, and fewer concerns about falling debris.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Mayor Page opened the public hearing at 6:45 p.m. First Reading: Ordinance 2026-04 Amending
Title 17 Zoning, Chapter 17.08 (Driveway Regulations)
Assistant Director of Community Development, Emily Shivley presented proposed driveway regulation
amendments that would increase the maximum driveway width for single-family homes from 25 to 30
feet, based on existing neighborhood conditions and the trend toward three-car garages. The proposed
change was reviewed for aesthetic and stormwater impacts, with staff reporting no anticipated negative
stormwater effects.

City Council Minutes for September 22, 2026
Page 2
Alicia Cosgrove questioned whether the proposed driveway changes are sufficiently supported by the
study, which focused primarily on newer neighborhoods and three-car garages. She expressed concern
about applying the changes citywide without additional information on older neighborhoods, gravel and
shared driveways, and the broader impacts of changing standards from zoning-based to land-usebased regulations.
Elizabeth Boudin expressed frustration with the need to amend the ordinance to address developer
noncompliance and noted that homeowners face additional requirements for alley driveways, including
easement and stormwater considerations. She encouraged staff to ensure the ordinance adequately
addresses both existing and new neighborhoods and emphasized the importance of holding developers
accountable for complying with established requirements.
Mayor Page closed the public hearing and reopened the council meeting at 6:56 p.m.
Councilmember Downing asked how the proposed driveway width change would affect older residential
development and what property owners should expect. Assistant Director of Community Development,
Emily Shivley explained that the proposed 30-foot standard would apply citywide, including older
neighborhoods and alley-accessed properties, and clarified how driveway width and stormwater
requirements would be evaluated.
Councilmember Abdouch asked about examples of existing driveway widths and questioned how
properties had been constructed outside the current standards. Shivley explained that some
nonconforming driveways resulted from changes made after initial approval, including by homeowners
or contractors, and described the City’s approach to bringing properties into compliance.
Councilmember Abdouch asked about examples of existing driveway widths and questioned how
properties had been constructed outside the current standards. Administrator Simpson explained that
some nonconforming driveways resulted from changes made after initial approval, including by
homeowners or contractors, and described the City’s approach to bringing properties into compliance.
Councilmember Downing asked for clarification regarding where the 30-foot driveway measurement
would apply. Shivley explained that the measurement would apply at the right-of-way line, generally
near the sidewalk, while the driveway could be wider closer to the home.
CONSENT AGENDA
Boards Commission Committees Minutes, BID Board, Park and Recreation Advisory Board, Plan
Commission, Library Board
Preliminary Resolution Declaring Intent to Exercise Special Assessment Police Powers Under Section
66.0703 Wisconsin Statutes for the Benefit of the River Falls Business Improvement District→→pulled
by Downing
Resolution No. 7117 Approving Submittal of WIDNR Forestry Grant
MSC Odeen/Bjerstedt moved to approve the remaining consent agenda items. Unanimous.
Preliminary Resolution No. 7118 Declaring Intent to Exercise Special Assessment Police Powers
Under Section 66.0703 Wisconsin Statutes for the Benefit of the River Falls Business Improvement
District
Councilmember Downing asked staff to explain how the boundaries of the River Falls Business
Improvement District (BID) are defined and which properties are subject to the special assessment.
Administrator Simpson explained that the BID boundaries were established under state statute and only
commercial properties within the district are assessed.
Councilmember Odeen asked what the BID assessment is used for and whether the district could be
expanded. Simpson explained the BID functions as a special taxing district, with assessments

City Council Minutes for September 22, 2026
Page 3
recommended by the BID Board and allocated among eligible commercial properties, and that
expansion would require a formal statutory process.
Councilmember Downing asked whether mixed-use properties, home-based businesses, and
residential properties within BID are subject to the assessment. Simpson clarified that the assessment
applies to qualifying commercial properties and not residential properties.
MSC Downing/Carow moved to approve the resolution. Unanimous.
ORDINANCE AND RESOLUTIONS
Resolution No. 7119 Approving the 2027-2031 Fiscal Plan
MSC Odeen/Bjerstedt moved to approve the resolution. Unanimous.
Resolution No. 7120 Approving the 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
MSC Bjerstedt/Walker moved to approve the resolution. Unanimous.
Resolution No. 7121 Authorizing the Issuance and Sale of $6,350,000 General Obligation Promissory
Notes, Series 2026A
Sean Lentz of Ehler’s provided an update on the City’s bond rating, noting that Moody’s Investors
Service affirmed the City’s Aa2 rating following a review of the City’s financial condition, demographics,
development, and economic outlook. The advisor also presented the results of the sale of $6.35 million
in general obligation promissory notes to finance the Fire Station project, with six bids received and the
winning bid resulting in costs below the pre-sale projection.
MSC Downing/Walker moved to approve the resolution.
Councilmember Downing asked about the timing of the bond sale, amortization, and opportunities for
future refinancing or early repayment. Lentz discussed current interest-rate conditions, the 20-year term
in relation to the useful life of the project, the City’s existing debt load, and the option to refinance
beginning in year eight. Administrator Simpson clarified the City and rural fire district’s respective
financial contributions to the Fire Station project, noting that the City is contributing approximately $4.1
million in cash upfront to reduce its long-term borrowing costs, while annual debt service will be shared
approximately equally with the rural fire district.
Roll Call Vote. Unanimous.
REPORTS:
Administrator’s Report
Mayor’s Good News
Mayor Page highlighted several community events and recent accomplishments, including the success
of Art on the Kinni and Bacon Bash. She also announced a $2.2 million grant awarded to the City and
River Falls Economic Development Corporation for expansion of the St. Croix Valley Business
Innovation Center. Mayor Page announced the River Falls Fire Department’s annual open house on
September 28 and encouraged residents to attend, as well as the downtown Ladies Night Out event.
MSC Bjerstedt/Walker to adjourn at 7:43 p.m. Unanimous.
Respectfully submitted,
Amy White, Community Services Director/City Clerk

TAX INCREMENT FINANCING (TIF)/TAX INCREMENT DISTRICTS (TID)
WORKSHOP
September 22, 2026
City Hall – Council Chambers
Councilmembers Present: Mayor Alison Page, Rose Walker, Sean Downing, Diane Odeen, Mei Mei Abdouch,
Todd Bjerstedt Absent: Michael Page, Nick Carrow
City Staff Present: City Administrator Scot Simpson, Finance Director Josh Solinger, Economic Development
Manager Keri Schreiner, Community Services Director/City Clerk Amy White, Conservation and Parks Manager
Brooks Ostendorf, Chief of Staff Jennifer Smith, Assistant to the City Administrator Jason Rohloff, Office Support
Specialist Brenda Randleman, Utilities Director Kevin Westhuis, Assistant Director of Community Development
Emily Shively, Finance Manager Kristine Basom, IT Technician Joe Reardon Community Development Director
Amy Peterson
Mayor Alison Page opened the workshop at 5:04 p.m.
City Council Workshop Minutes — TIF/TID Overview
Economic Development Manager Keri Schreiner, Finance Director Josh Solinger presented an overview of Tax
Increment Financing (TIF) and Tax Increment Districts (TIDs). Staff explained that TIF is a financing tool used
within a defined TID. When a TID is created, its existing property value becomes the base value on which the
overlapping taxing jurisdictions continue to receive taxes. Taxes generated by growth in property value are used
to pay eligible TID project costs. When the TID closes, the full property value returns to the tax rolls. River Falls
has created 19 TIDs, 13 of which are active.
Economic Development Manager Schreiner reviewed eligible project costs, including infrastructure, property
acquisition, remediation, professional and administrative services, financing costs, and developer assistance
through development agreements. Costs must relate to the purpose of the TID and be included in its project
plan. Eligible projects may be located within one-half mile of a district when permitted under the applicable rules
and project plan. Staff noted that TIF generally cannot pay for municipal buildings or unrelated generalgovernment expenses.
Economic Development Manager Schreiner described two primary approaches to financing TID projects. With
upfront financing, the City or its utilities advance funds for early expenses and are repaid as tax increment
becomes available. The City may also issue debt for project costs. Under the pay-as-you-go approach, a
developer invests in a project and begins paying taxes on the improved property before receiving an agreedupon portion of the resulting increment. Developers continue to pay property taxes at the same rate. Staff stated
that pay-as-you-go is the City’s default approach and is used in most active TIDs. Approximately three of the 13
active TIDs involve some upfront financing. Inter-fund advances are repaid with 4% interest.
Administrator Simpson discussed the risks of each financing approach. The city may remain responsible for debt
payments if a TID generates less increment than expected, and advances from other funds may not be fully
repaid. Staff explained that development agreements help assign responsibilities and protect the city’s
investment. Agreements may require committed projects before the city incurs costs, phase expenditures, and
tie incentives to assessed-value benchmarks. They may also include minimum value or tax guarantees,
provisions to invoice developers for shortfalls, security interests, and occupancy requirements before pay-asyou-go payments begin.

Council Workshop Minutes
September 22, 2026
Page 2
The General Fund is a primary source of advances to TIDs in their early stages. Finance Director Solinger
explained that principal repayments rebuild the amount advanced, while interest payments and operating
transfers provide General Fund revenue. Operating transfers also help offset staff time spent on economic
development and TIF administration. Council discussed the possibility that a TID might not fully repay an
advance. Finance Director Solinger noted that existing TIDs with positive cash flow help reduce risk across the
City’s TIDs.
Finance Director Solinger reviewed amendments that may change a TID’s project plan or boundaries or provide
an affordable housing extension. Amendments require Plan Commission and City Council action, and most also
require review and approval by the Joint Review Board. Staff explained that 2025 Act 173 allows certain
affordable housing extensions to increase from one year to two years, effective January 1, 2028. Revenue from
an extension must be used for affordable housing purposes. The City uses its Housing Reserve Fund for this
purpose.
Economic Development Manager Schreiner provided an overview of active districts and their projects. Examples
included trail construction and property acquisition near Lake George, the Radio Road interchange and
infrastructure in Sterling Ponds Corporate Park, improvements in the River Falls Industrial Park, and planning
and construction in Mann Valley Corporate Park. Staff also discussed City Station Depot and Creamery-area
projects; Milltown-area utility, park, and parking improvements; Park Street realignment; and South Main Street
projects. The presentation identified the Swinging Bridge rehabilitation as being in design, with construction
planned for 2027. Staff distinguished future projects identified in TID plans from improvements already
completed.
In discussing Mann Valley TID 19, Administrator Simpson explained that city-led infrastructure investment and
debt service are initially supported through inter-fund advances. Other TIDs may contribute to eligible Mann
Valley improvements where permitted under the half-mile rule. Potential future improvements, including a
roundabout, are included in project plans to preserve options. Their inclusion does not commit the city to
construction or to paying their full cost with TIF. If a specific development creates the need for improvement, the
city may seek a contribution from the developer. Staff clarified that Valley View is within TID 19. Iron Horse is
outside the TID boundary but may fall within the half-mile eligible area following annexation. Staff also clarified
that the 35% limitation on newly platted residential property applies to certain mixed-use TIDs, not industrial
TIDs.
Administrator Simpson discussed how development that adds consistent demand within existing capacity may
help support utility systems. Utility infrastructure costs and developer contributions may be addressed in
development agreements. Electric rates and special rate arrangements remain subject to Public Service
Commission review and approval. Staff noted that TIF funding for eligible utility infrastructure may reduce costs
that would otherwise be borne by utility ratepayers.
Administrator Simpson explained that closing a TID makes the full property value available to all overlapping
taxing jurisdictions. The effect on the School District can be mixed because an increase in equalized value may
reduce state aid under the school funding formula. Staff reported that the city continues to communicate with the
School District about anticipated TID closures and potential impacts. A future Mann Valley workshop is planned
to review detailed infrastructure costs, including utilities and walkway improvements.
Councilmember Downing asked how TIDs affect School District funding. Administrator Simpson explained that
the effect varies across Wisconsin because school funding depends in part on property value and state aid.
When a River Falls TID closes, its increased property value becomes available to all taxing jurisdictions. The
City and County can receive property-tax revenue from that value. For the School District, the added property
value may reduce state aid, offsetting some or all of the additional local tax revenue. Staff described the overall
effect on the School District as mixed and said the city considers TID closing dates in its fiscal planning and
communicates with the School District about anticipated closures.

Council Workshop Minutes
September 22, 2026
Page 3
Council asked whether TID closures affect School District funding and whether the city coordinates with the
district. Administrator Simpson explained that the city shares its TID closing projections with the School District’s
business manager and provides reminders as anticipated closing dates approach. Staff described the impact on
School District revenue as mixed because additional property-tax revenue may be offset by reduced state aid.
Council also asked how often the city provides funding to developers upfront. Finance Director Solinger said
pay-as-you-go is the starting point in development negotiations because it places less financial risk on the City.
A developer seeking upfront assistance must provide a compelling reason. He estimated that two or three of the
13 active TIDs involved some upfront assistance to a developer, sometimes alongside pay-as-you-go payments.
Economic Development Manager Schreiner distinguished those arrangements from Mann Valley, where the city
made the initial infrastructure investment itself.
Economic Development Manager Schreiner and Finance Director Solinger explained that Mann Valley currently
has debt-service payments of approximately $800,000 to $900,000 annually while the district has limited
increment revenue. Inter-fund advances from the water, sewer, and electric utilities and the Environmental Fee
Fund support those payments. The city records the advances as amounts owed by the TID, to be repaid with
4% interest as development generates increment. Staff noted that other eligible TIDs also contribute to certain
Mann Valley costs under the half-mile rule. Council discussed how the City’s investment prepares sites for
development and how using TID funding for eligible utility infrastructure can reduce costs otherwise borne by
utility ratepayers.
Council continued its discussion of utility costs associated with development. Administrator Simpson explained
that development within existing system capacity generally pays for its related infrastructure and may benefit
utility customers by adding consistent demand. A project requiring a substantial increase in capacity could have
different cost implications. He said utility infrastructure contributions may be addressed in development
agreements, while special electric rates require separate Public Service Commission approval. He also
explained that a cost paid by a developer would not also be charged to utility ratepayers.
Council asked about a potential roundabout in Mann Valley TID 19. Economic Development Manager Schreiner
explained that including the roundabout in the project plan preserves the option to use TID funds if it becomes
necessary. Its inclusion does not mean the City has decided to build or fully fund it. If a development creates the
need for improvement, the city would seek an appropriate contribution from the developer. Finance Director
Solinger described a similar approach to other improvements, in which the city considers the impact of a
particular development when negotiating cost sharing.
Administrator Simpson confirmed that Valley View is within TID 19 and that Iron Horse is outside the district
boundary but within the half-mile area following annexation. He explained that the 35% limit on newly platted
residential property applies to mixed-use TIDs, rather than to TID 19 as an industrial district. When Council asked
about broader residential development within an industrial TID, Economic Development Manager Schreiner said
the question would require further review.
Council asked how development agreements protect the City’s investment. Finance Director Solinger and
Administrator Simpson explained that agreements may include mortgages or other security interests and
minimum tax agreements. Staff also noted that pay-as-you-go assistance is withheld until a building is completed
and ready for occupancy. A future Mann Valley workshop is expected to provide a detailed review of
infrastructure and related costs, including utilities and walkway improvements.
Mayor Page closed the workshop at 6:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Brenda Randleman, Office Support Specialist

2
MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council

FROM:

Harley Mehlhorn, Senior Planner

DATE:

October 13, 2026

TITLE:

ORDINANCE 2026-04 AMENDING TITLE 17 ZONING, CHAPTER 17.08,
SECTION 17.08.020 – DRIVEWAY REGULATIONS (DRIVEWAY WIDTH)

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Adopt ordinance 2026-04 amending Title 17 Zoning regarding driveway width.
BACKGROUND
The City’s current driveway regulations establish maximum driveway widths based on zoning
district. The current standard allows a maximum width of 25 feet at the property line for singlefamily residential properties.
As new residential development has increasingly incorporated three-car garages, staff has found
that the existing 25-foot standard can be difficult to accommodate while also providing an
appropriate driveway transition to larger garages. The proposed amendment would increase the
maximum driveway width at the property line for single-family residential uses from 25 feet to 30
feet.
Staff also proposes reorganizing the standards around land use rather than zoning district. This
approach more directly ties the driveway standard to the type of development being served and
provides a more consistent standard across zoning districts and uses.
The Plan Commission considered the proposed amendments at their September 1, 2026 meeting
and forwarded it with a unanimous favorable recommendation.
DISCUSSION
Staff surveyed 125 existing homes through a random sampling of five neighborhoods across the
City that were developed within the last 20 years to evaluate existing driveway widths. On
average, 55.4% of the driveways surveyed exceeded the current 25-foot allowance. Across the
five neighborhoods, the average driveway width was approximately 27 feet.
The proposed 30-foot maximum would more closely reflect existing development patterns while
providing sufficient width to accommodate three-car garages and the necessary driveway taper.
Based on the survey, the increase would bring the majority of existing driveways into compliance,
with only a small portion remaining above the proposed standard.

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
October 13, 2026
Page 2
The proposed change is intended to better reflect existing residential development and provide a
reasonable standard for new construction without broadly increasing driveway widths beyond
what is necessary.
The City Engineer has evaluated the proposed increase in driveway width and found no adverse
stormwater impacts associated with the change. The existing code provisions already account for
additional impervious surfaces above the prescribed threshold, and the proposed increase in
driveway width does not alter those requirements.
CONCLUSION
The proposed amendment updates the driveway width standards to better reflect existing
development patterns and current residential construction practices. Increasing the maximum
width for single-family residential uses from 25 feet to 30 feet would provide additional flexibility
for properties with three-car garages while maintaining a reasonable limitation on driveway width.
The proposed change also has no anticipated adverse stormwater impacts.

2

ORDINANCE NO. 2026-04
ORDINANCE AMENDING
TITLE 17 ZONING, CHAPTER 17.08, SECTION 17.08.020 – DRIVEWAY REGULATIONS
(DRIVEWAY WIDTHS)
THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS DOES ORDAIN:
Section 1. That Chapter 17.08 – General Requirements, Section 17.08.020 – Driveway
Regulations of the City of River Falls Municipal Code be amended as follows:
A. Driveway Width. Driveway transitions exceeding those shown may be approved by the city
engineer for drives entering arterial streets if necessary to accommodate anticipated truck turning
movements.
Max. Driveway Transition
Max. Width at Prop. Line
Zoning District
Taper
Radius
Single Drive
Combined Drive
RS, R-1, C
5’
5’
25’
40’
R-3, B-2, A,
10’
10’
35’
50’
MHP, R-2
B-3, I-1, I-2, U,
20’
20’
35’
50’
B-1
Land Use
Single- and
Two-Family
Multi-Family*,
Mobile-Home
Park** and
Commercial
Industrial

Max. Driveway Transition
Taper
Radius
5’
5’

Max. Width at Prop. Line
Single Drive
Combined Drive
30’
40’

10’

10’

35’

50’

20’

20’

35’

50’

*Three or more units
**Park entrance drive; individual units shall be considered single family

Section 2. Effective date. This ordinance amendment shall take effect from and after its date of publication as
provided by law.
FOR THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS

Alison H. Page, Mayor
ATTEST:

Adopted:

____________

_____________________________
Jackie Hanson, Deputy City Clerk

Published: ____________

3

MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council

FROM:

Kevin Westhuis, Utility Director

DATE:

October 13 2026

TITLE:

RESOLUTION APPROVING WPPI ENERGY AMENDMENT NO. 3 TO THE
LONG-TERM POWER SUPPLY CONTRACT FOR PARTICIPATING MEMBERS

_____________________________________________________________________

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Adopt a resolution awarding the WPPI Energy Amendment No. 3 to our long-term existing power
supply contract for existing participating members and authorize the City Administrator to execute
all necessary documents.
BACKGROUND
WPPI Energy has requested that each participating member approve an amendment to its LongTerm Power Supply Contract by December 31, 2026. The City of River Falls is a member of WPPI
Energy and receives wholesale electric power through WPPI.
The proposed amendment would extend the initial term of the City’s existing contract, which is
currently scheduled to expire on December 31, 2055. Extending the contract term will allow WPPI
Energy to secure and finance new long-term power supply resources necessary to continue
providing reliable electric service to River Falls and other participating members at competitive
and stable rates.
The amendment is necessary to provide WPPI Energy with the ability to acquire additional power
supply resources, issue long-term bonds to finance those resources, and make other long-term
arrangements necessary to maintain a reliable and cost-effective power supply. Without approval
of the amendment, the existing contract will expire on December 31, 2055.
For purposes of the amendment, “the Member’s Contract” refers to the Long-Term Power Supply
Contract for Participating Members between WPPI Energy and the City of River Falls dated March
14, 1989, as subsequently amended.
DISCUSSION
The Amendments include the following changes to the Long-Term Contracts for all members:

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
October 13, 2026
Page 2
1. Definitions: All capitalized definitional terms used but not otherwise defined in this
Amendment shall have the meanings given to those terms in the Member’s Contract.
2. Initial Term and Termination: The first sentence of Section 9(a) of the Member’s Contract
is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:
a. This Contract shall take effect upon the date first written above and shall remain in
effect for an initial term that ends at midnight on December 31, 2073, and thereafter
until terminated by notice as provided in this Section 9(a).
3. Effective Date: This Amendment, upon execution by the Parties, shall take effect as of the
Effective Date, provided however, that if, by February 26, 2027, fewer than thirty-four (34)
Participating Members have executed an amendment extending the initial terms of their
respective Long-Term Contracts to midnight on December 31, 2073, this Amendment shall
be null and void and shall have no force and effect. Prior to April 1, 2027, WPPI shall
certify in writing to each Participating Member that has executed such an amendment
(including the Member) whether this threshold has been met.

4. Miscellaneous: In the event of conflict between the provisions of the Member’s Contract

and the provisions of this Amendment, the provisions of this Amendment shall control.
Except as specifically set forth herein, no other amendments to the Member’s Contract
are being made between the Parties, and all other provisions of the Member’s Contract
remain in full force and effect. This Amendment may be executed in two or more
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which taken together
shall constitute one and the same instrument.

Why a contract extension?
WPPI’s revenues under the Long-Term Contracts have been pledged to secure bonds issued to
finance ownership of generating units and transmission assets. In addition, WPPI routinely
seeks other contractual arrangements to provide its members with stable and low-cost power
supply over the long term. WPPI’s power purchase contracts and general business strategies
have already seen the impact of the relatively short remaining existing term of the long-term
contracts.
The all-requirements, long-term power supply agreement between WPPI Energy and all its 51
members, including River Falls Municipal Utilities, is a visible sign of financial stability that allows
our joint-action agency to negotiate cost-effective power purchases and access lower-cost power
plant financing to meet our community’s needs.
The long-term contract of any member that does not approve an Amendment will still expire in
2055. At that time, the member will be responsible for obtaining its power requirements from
other sources and WPPI will have no obligation to continue providing power to the member. It is
necessary that Participating Members extend the existing terms of the long-term contracts to
enable WPPI to plan for, obtain, contract for, purchase, and finance new long-term power supply
resources, including, but not limited to, new generating plants. The Member wishes that WPPI be
able to secure and finance long-term power supply resources so that WPPI is able to continue
serving the Member and all other Participating Members reliably and at competitive and stable

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
October 13, 2026
Page 3
rates under the long-term contracts over the long term, and WPPI wishes to be able to make new
long-term commitments in order to do so.
River Falls Municipal Utilities was one of the original founders of WPPI Energy. The model of and
decision to develop, join, and support “joint action” and bulk power supply purchasing has been
advantageous for our City. Being a member of WPPI Energy has created a stable rate
environment for River Falls that businesses can depend on and presents an overall value
proposition through competitive rates and high levels of service that residents have come to
expect.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
For context, River Falls Municipal Utilities has bought about 10.3 million dollars’ worth of electricity
from WPPI each of the past two years. We have sold this electricity for approximately 16.1 million
dollars each of these years. Keep in mind that if we do not purchase from WPPI as we have
done, we will need to purchase from somewhere. The wholesale power purchases from WPPI
will continue to translate into sales for our local non-profit utility that will pay for our day-to-day
electric operations, ongoing maintenance, capital expenses, a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT)
to the city each year ($373,729 in 2025), and a contribution to a reserve fund for ongoing
replacement costs. Wholesale power purchase portfolios need to be diverse and closely managed
to not only meet demand but regulated standards. It is vital to the citizens and businesses of
River Falls that we as a local Municipal Electric Utility continue to provide stable, reliable, and
competitive electric energy pricing. WPPI has met these criteria over the past 46 years and has
been a dependable wholesale power provider.
CONCLUSION
Staff recommend the City of River Falls Common Council approve the WPPI Energy Amendment
No. 3 long-term existing power supply contract, extending the initial contract to 2073, and
authorizing the City Administrator to execute all necessary documents related.

MEMORANDUM
TO:

All WPPI Energy Members in Wisconsin and Michigan

FROM:

WPPI Executive Committee –
Michael Avanzi
Steve Brooks
Casey Engebretson
Scott Gald
Melanie Krause
Chris Krogman

George Morrissey
Brian Rhodes
Jim Stawicki
Jill Weiss
Kevin Westhuis

-- and Mike Peters, President and CEO
DATE:

July 6, 2026

SUBJECT:

Amendment of Long Term Power Supply Contracts

I.

The Amendment.

WPPI requests that, prior to December 31, 2026, each of WPPI’s members approve
an amendment (“Amendment”) to their existing Long Term Power Supply Contracts (each, a
“Long Term Contract”). Without action, all of the Long Term Contracts will expire on or
before December 31, 2055. As described below, the Amendments are necessary so that
WPPI has the ability to acquire new power supply resources, issue long-term bonds to
finance the costs of these resources, and make other arrangements to continue to reliably
provide power at competitive and stable rates for its members over the long term. The
Amendment extends the initial term of the Long Term Contracts to expire on December 31,
2073.1
II.

Timing.

The Amendments will not be effective unless at least 34 of WPPI’s members approve
an extension of the term of their Long Term Contract to December 31, 2073. The final
1

As in 2015, the process to address the contracts of WPPI’s Iowa members will be slightly different than the process
for Wisconsin and Michigan members due to Iowa state law requirements limiting the term of municipal contracts to
40 years. Consequently, the Iowa members will be asked to enter into agreements resulting in 40-year contract terms
initially, with the expectation that those contracts will be modified again in approximately seven years to match the
Wisconsin and Michigan members’ extended contract terms.

July 6, 2026
Page 2

deadline for action is February 26, 2027. If fewer than 34 members approve and execute
their respective Amendment, all of the Amendments will be null and void. However, we
would greatly appreciate it if all members are able to take action and return executed
documents to WPPI by December 31, 2026.
III.

Procedure.

The Amendment must be approved by each member’s governing body. For those
members with a utility commission charged with management of the utility, the utility
commission should first formally recommend approval of the Amendment to the ultimate
governing body. The enclosed individualized resolutions should be used by commissions
and governing bodies for this purpose.
WPPI’s bond counsel will require an opinion from each member’s attorney that the
Amendment has been duly approved and executed on behalf of the member and is
enforceable in accordance with its terms, and WPPI will provide members with similar
opinions from WPPI’s attorney. These opinions are similar to the opinions that were given
on the original Long Term Contracts and previous amendments. A form member attorney
opinion for this purpose is enclosed and should be reviewed as soon as possible by
your attorney, along with the Amendment and resolutions.
It is important that all questions your community decision makers have about the
Amendment are addressed. WPPI will be happy to assist in this effort; please contact Jake
Oelke, Senior Vice President of Member Relations, Communications, & Services (608-8344536 or [email protected]) or Lauri Morehart, Vice President of Member Relations
(608-834-4571 or [email protected]).
All questions on the legal documents should be addressed by telephone or e-mail to
Mike Rausch, Assistant General Counsel (608-834-4526 or [email protected]), or
Tom Hanrahan, General Counsel (608-834-4558 or [email protected]), at WPPI.
Following approval of the applicable resolutions, please have the following sent to the
attention of Mike Rausch, Assistant General Counsel, at WPPI using the provided envelope:
 At least one (1) original of all resolutions executed on behalf of the
governing body and, if applicable, the utility commission;
 At least two (2) originals of the Amendment executed on behalf of the
member; and
 At least one (1) original of the required opinion from the member’s
attorney.
WPPI will return to each member one fully executed original of the Amendment and
one original opinion from WPPI’s attorney. As set forth in the Amendment text, prior to

July 6, 2026
Page 3

April 1, 2027, WPPI will also certify in writing to each member that has executed an
Amendment whether or not at least 34 members have approved an extension of the term of
their Long Term Contract to December 31, 2073.
IV.

Reasons to Extend the Long Term Contract.

WPPI’s revenues under the Long Term Contracts have been pledged to secure bonds
issued to finance ownership of generating units and transmission assets. In addition, WPPI
routinely seeks other long-term contractual arrangements to allow WPPI to continue to
reliably serve members at stable and competitive rates. Without extension of the Long Term
Contracts, WPPI will be restricted in its ability to finance and acquire new generating and
transmission assets, and will seek to meet its power supply obligations to members through
contracts with increasingly shorter-term purchases. Such shorter-term purchases could
lead to greater cost variability.
If at least 34 of WPPI’s members extend their Long Term Contracts, the Long Term
Contract of any other member that does not approve an Amendment will still expire on its
current expiration date. Prior to the contract’s current expiration date, a member that does
not extend will be obligated to continue all-requirements power purchases at the same rate
as other members, including costs of projects to serve other members after the nonextending member’s current term expires. There will be no right to power or support
services after such expiration.
A member whose Long Term Contract has expired will continue to be a member of
WPPI, unless it elects to formally withdraw from WPPI. If WPPI dissolves in the future and
sells its assets, a member not taking power will be entitled to a percentage share of the
proceeds of such a sale, after payment of all liabilities, based on a ratio determined by the
kilowatt-hours purchased by the member from WPPI divided by the total kilowatt-hours
purchased by all members over WPPI’s life. Because such a member will no longer be
purchasing power from WPPI, the member’s proportional interest in WPPI’s assets will
decline over time after the expiration of their Long Term Contract. Also, a member that is
not taking power will have no right to the benefits of WPPI’s reserve funds, including the rate
stabilization fund, after expiration of its Long Term Contract.
Fundamentally, a Long Term Contract extension will enable a member, through WPPI,
to continue to own a share of generating resources and a well-diversified power supply
portfolio, while receiving services that allow member utilities to operate efficiently and
successfully for the benefit of their customers.

RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION APPROVING WPPI ENERGY AMENDMENT NO. 3 TO THE LONG TERM
POWER SUPPLY CONTRACT FOR PARTICIPATING MEMBERS
WHEREAS, the City of River Falls (the “Member”) is a member of WPPI Energy (“WPPI”) and,
like all other WPPI members, takes long-term all-requirements electric service from WPPI
pursuant to a long-term power supply contract (each, a “Long Term Contract”); and
WHEREAS, the Long Term Contract between the Member and WPPI is that certain Long Term
Power Supply Contract for Participating Members dated as of March 14, 1989, as amended (the
“Member’s Contract”); and
WHEREAS, the current term of the Member’s Contract and each other Long Term Contract will
expire on or before December 31, 2055; and
WHEREAS, WPPI’s revenues under the Long Term Contracts have been pledged to secure the
bonds issued by WPPI to finance ownership of WPPI’s generating units and transmission
assets; and
WHEREAS, it is necessary that WPPI members extend the existing terms of the Long Term
Contracts in order to enable WPPI to plan for, obtain, contract for, purchase and finance new
long-term power supply resources, including, but not limited to, new generating plants; and
WHEREAS, the Member desires that WPPI be able to secure and finance new long term power
supply resources so that WPPI is able to continue serving the Member and all other members
reliably and at competitive and stable rates under the Long Term Contracts over the long term
and WPPI wishes to be able to make new long-term commitments in order to be able to do so;
and
WHEREAS, the parties wish to extend the term of the Member’s Contract, as set forth in the
amendment referred to in the caption of this Resolution (the “Amendment”); and
WHEREAS, the River Falls Utility Advisory Board has recommended that the City approve and
execute the Amendment; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, be it resolved by the River Falls Common Council:
1. That the Amendment, the form of which has been presented to the River Falls Common
Council, is hereby approved;
2. That the Mayor and the City Clerk are directed to execute and deliver the Amendment to
WPPI on behalf of the Member to be in substantially the form presented to the River

Falls Common Council. The Mayor and City Clerk and other appropriate City officials,
including the City Attorney, also are directed to take all other actions on behalf of the
Member as may be necessary to effectuate the Amendment, subject to the requirement
of Section 3 of the Amendment, which provides that if, by February 26, 2027, fewer than
thirty-four (34) WPPI Participating Members approve an amendment extending the terms
of their respective Long Term Contracts to midnight on December 31, 2073, the
Amendment shall be null and void and shall have no force and effect;
3. That the Member agrees to be bound by the terms of the Amendment as executed by
the Member.
Introduced by Mayor Alison H. Page
Moved by _________________________________________
Seconded by ______________________________________
Passed by the River Falls Common Council on the 13th day of October, 2026, and
submitted to the Mayor and City Clerk on the 13th day of October, 2026. Approved this 13th day
of October, 2026.
Alison H. Page, Mayor
Jackie Hanson, Deputy City Clerk
State of Wisconsin)
) ss
County of Pierce)
I, Jackie Hanson, Deputy City Clerk of the City of River Falls, Wisconsin, hereby certify that
I have compared the above Resolution with the original instrument on file in my office and that
the same is a true, complete and correct copy of said document.
IN WITNESS HEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Corporation Seal of the
City of River Falls, Wisconsin, this 13th day of October, 2026.

Deputy City Clerk
Jackie Hanson

RIVER FALLS
AMENDMENT NO. 3
TO LONG TERM POWER SUPPLY CONTRACT
FOR PARTICIPATING MEMBERS
This Amendment No. 3 to Long Term Power Supply Contract for Participating Members (this
“Amendment”), dated as of _________________, 202__ (the “Effective Date”), is made by and
between WPPI Energy, a municipal electric company (“WPPI”), and the City of River Falls (the
“Member”). WPPI and the Member are sometimes referred to in this Amendment individually as a
“Party” and collectively as the “Parties.”
RECITALS
A.
The Member is a member of WPPI and, like all other Participating Members, takes longterm all-requirements electric service from WPPI pursuant to a long-term power supply contract (each,
a “Long Term Contract”).
B.
In this Amendment, the term “the Member’s Contract” refers to the Long Term Power
Supply Contract for Participating Members between WPPI and the Member dated as of March 14, 1989
(as subsequently amended), the current initial term of which will expire immediately following
December 31, 2055.
C.
WPPI's revenues under the Long Term Contracts have been pledged to secure the bonds
issued by WPPI to finance ownership of WPPI’s generating units and transmission assets.
D.
It is necessary that Participating Members extend the existing terms of the Long Term
Contracts in order to enable WPPI to plan for, obtain, contract for, purchase, and finance new long-term
power supply resources, including, but not limited to, new generating plants.
E.
The Member wishes that WPPI be able to secure and finance long-term power supply
resources so that WPPI is able to continue serving the Member and all other Participating Members
reliably and at competitive and stable rates under the Long Term Contracts over the long term, and
WPPI wishes to be able to make new long-term commitments in order to do so.
F.
The Parties desire to further amend the Member’s Contract on the terms and conditions
set forth in this Amendment to extend the initial term of the Member’s Contract.

AGREEMENT
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing recitals, which are incorporated into and
made a part of this Amendment, the promises contained in this Amendment and the Member’s Contract,
and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby
acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
1.
Definitions. All capitalized definitional terms used but not otherwise defined in this
Amendment shall have the meanings given to those terms in the Member's Contract.
2.
Initial Term and Termination. The first sentence of Section 9(a) of the Member’s Contract
is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:

This Contract shall take effect upon the date first written above and
Page 1 of 2

RIVER FALLS
shall remain in effect for an initial term that ends at midnight on
December 31, 2073, and thereafter until terminated by notice as
provided in this Section 9(a).
3.
Effective Date. This Amendment, upon execution by the Parties, shall take effect as of
the Effective Date, provided however, that if, by February 26, 2027, fewer than thirty-four (34)
Participating Members have executed an amendment extending the initial terms of their respective Long
Term Contracts to midnight on December 31, 2073, this Amendment shall be null and void and shall
have no force and effect. Prior to April 1, 2027, WPPI shall certify in writing to each Participating
Member that has executed such an amendment (including the Member) whether this threshold has been
met.
4.
Miscellaneous. In the event of conflict between the provisions of the Member’s
Contract and the provisions of this Amendment, the provisions of this Amendment shall control. Except
as specifically set forth herein, no other amendments to the Member’s Contract are being made between
the Parties, and all other provisions of the Member’s Contract remain in full force and effect. This
Amendment may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original,
but all of which taken together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, WPPI and the Member have duly approved and executed this Amendment
as of the Effective Date.
WPPI ENERGY
By:
___________________________________
Name: ___________________________________
Title: ___________________________________
By:
___________________________________
Name: ___________________________________
Title: ___________________________________
CITY OF RIVER FALLS
By:

___________________________________
Mayor, Alison H. Page

By:

___________________________________
Deputy City Clerk, Jackie Hanson

By:

___________________________________
Chair, River Falls Utility Advisory Board

Page 2 of 2

4

MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council

FROM:

Todd Nickleski, City Engineer

DATE:

October 13, 2026

TITLE:

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE
CEDAR ST IMPROVEMENTS & LAMETTI INTERCEPTOR REPLACEMENT

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Adopt a resolution approving a construction contract with Total Excavating for $275,907.80 to
replace a segment of the Lametti Interceptor Sewer and a portion of the West Cedar Street
Sanitary Sewer.
BACKGROUND
The Lametti Interceptor Sewer conveys wastewater from the northern half of the City along the
west bank of the Kinnikinic River. The portion of the Lametti Interceptor from the northeast corner
of the City Station apartments to approximately the west side of St. Croix Street is scheduled to
be replaced in Fall 2027. This pipe is currently undersized and exhibits extreme groundwater
infiltration that unnecessarily causes increased hydraulic loading to the wastewater treatment
plant.

DISCUSSION

On July 28, 2026, the City of River Falls Common Council approved a Specific Implementation
Plan and Development Agreement (DA) for The Creamery at Cedar, a mixed-use development
consisting of a brewery/taproom, event space, short term apartment rentals, and an outdoor patio
overlooking the Kinnickinnic River. The segment of the Lametti Interceptor adjacent to The
Creamery at Cedar and a segment of sanitary sewer adjacent to Cedar Street, both lay partially
within an easement through the development property. The DA committed River Falls to replace
the Lametti Interceptor Sewer segment adjacent to the development and relocate the existing
Cedar Street sanitary from its current location on the development property into the Cedar Street
Right of Way.
The segment of the Lametti Interceptor sewer to be replaced and the West Cedar Street sanitary
sewer to be relocated are shown below:

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
October 13, 2026
Page 2

Replacing this segment of the Lametti Interceptor sewer in 2026 prior to (or concurrently with) the
proposed development will minimize sewer construction costs and ensure Fall 2027 Lametti
interceptor replacement will not cause significant disturbance to The Creamery at Cedar.
Relocating the existing sanitary sewer serving Cedar Street into the public right of way will allow
this development to occur, noting this segment of sewer is in very poor condition and would
require repair or replacement soon regardless of a development project.
To complete this work and minimize conflicts with private construction of The Creamery at Cedar,
the City contracted with Auth Consulting and Associates (AC/a) to prepare construction
documents and perform bidding services to complete this work. Bids were opened on October 5,
2026 and 4 bids were received from qualified bidders by the 2:00pm bid time as shown below. All
bidders were deemed qualified to perform this work as indicated in the attached AC/a Bid Award
Recommendation Letter.

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
October 13, 2026
Page 2

Contractor
Total Excavating & Grading, LLC
Albrightson Excavating, Inc
HAAS Sons, Inc
A1 Excavating LLC

Bid Total
$275,907.80
$302,346.94
$351,356.41
$443,345.00

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATION
Sanitary sewer relocation on Cedar Street will be funded by TID 14 as outlined in the Development
Agreement and improvements associated with the Lametti Interceptor replacement shall be
funded by the wastewater utility, noting this work was scheduled to occur in 2027 regardless of
this private development. This total project cost also includes $10,220.00 for new pavement on
West Cedar Street as a roadway patch. If future cul-de-sac construction occurs in 2027, no new
asphalt pavement will be placed on West Cedar Street and a temporary roadway patch utilizing
City-owned asphalt millings will be installed as a temporary driving surface reducing this total
project cost.
Sources
Wastewater Utility

Uses
Amount
Cedar St. Sanitary Sewer
$65,146.51
$65,146.51
Improvements
$208,761.29 Lametti Interceptor
$208,761.29

Total Sources

$275,907.80 Total Uses

TID 14

Amount

$275,907.80

CONCLUSION
Staff recommend City Council award the construction contract for these Cedar St Improvements
and Lametti Interceptor Replacement to Total Excavating for $275,907.80.

RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION APPROVING A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE CEDAR ST
IMPROVEMENTS & LAMETTI INTERCEPTOR REPLACEMENT
WHEREAS, public sanitary sewer (The Lametti Interceptor) adjacent to the Kinnickinnic River
and Parcel ID 276010600100 is scheduled for replacement in 2027; and
WHEREAS, public sanitary sewer serving West Cedar Street currently exists in an easement on
Parcel ID 276010600100; and
WHEREAS, the City of River Falls approved a Specific Implementation Plan (Resolution 7106)
and Development Agreement (Resolution 7107) for a proposed development (Development) on
Parcel ID 276010600100 entitled The Creamery at Cedar; and
WHEREAS, replacement of the public sanitary sewer (The Lametti Interceptor) adjacent to the
Development along the Kinnickinnic River prior to, or concurrently with, the Development
construction will be more cost effective than replacing this segment of sewer after the
Development construction is complete; and
WHEREAS, relocation of the public sanitary sewer on the Development property serving West
Cedar Street is necessary to facilitate the Development construction; and
WHEREAS, bids were solicited for the west Cedar St Improvements & Lametti Interceptor
Replacement in accordance with State and City requirements and were opened on Monday,
October 5th; and
WHEREAS, the low bid for the Cedar Street Improvements & Lametti Interceptor Replacement
was submitted by Total Excavating, LLC in the amount of $275,907.80; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the River Falls Common Council award the Cedar St
Improvements & Lametti Interceptor replacement contract to Total Excavating & Grading and
authorize the City Administrator to sign construction contracts for the same.
Dated this 13th day of October 2026.

__________________________

Alison H. Page, Mayor
ATTEST:

________________________________
Jackie Hanson, Deputy City Clerk

5
MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council

FROM:

Amy White, Community Services Director/City Clerk

DATE:

October 13, 2026

TITLE:

RESOLUTION APPROVING INDIVISIBLE RIVER FALLS REQUEST FOR
NOISE CONTROL EXEMPTION FOR SPECIAL EVENT

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Approve the resolution for Indivisible River Falls request for noise control exemption for special
event.
BACKGROUND
The City Council adopted a Special Event Policy on March 24, 2026. The policy specifies that
Council approval is required for any ordinance exceptions.
DISCUSSION
Indivisible River Falls submitted an application to hold a rally in Veteran’s Park on October 17,
2026 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. that will include a band performance. The band will use the
band shell with amplification. Temporary electrical service will also be arranged, with associated
costs billed to Indivisible River Falls. The application has been reviewed by staff and approved.
Loud and Unnecessary Noise Prohibited Exemption Request
This event involves a request by Indivisible River Falls to grant an exemption to Section 8.28.020
of the Municipal Code: Loud and Unnecessary Noise Prohibited.
CONCLUSION
Consider the resolution related to Indivisible River Falls’ request for an exemption to the noise
ordinance.

RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION APPROVING INDIVISIBLE RIVER FALLS REQUEST FOR NOISE CONTROL
EXEMPTION FOR SPECIAL EVENT
WHEREAS, Indivisible River Falls intends to hold the following events: Rally in Veteran’s Park on October
17, 2026; and
WHEREAS, Indivisible River Falls is requesting an exemption to Section 8.28.020 of the Municipal Code
to allow the use of loudspeaker and amplified sound in Veteran’s Park during the events; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Common Council of the City of River Falls hereby approves
the request for the exemption to the noise control ordinance for the following events: Rally in Veteran’s
Park on October 17, 2026 as outlined in the special event application

Dated this 13th day of October, 2026.
ATTEST:

Jackie Hanson, Deputy City Clerk

Alison H. Page, Mayor

Page 1

City of River
SPECIAL EVENT APPLICATION

/HZLV6W
River Falls, WI 54022
715-425-09
[email protected]

Applicant Information
Name:

Nancy Sander

E-mail: [email protected]

Organization: Indivisible River Falls
Address:

3KRQH 2624885247

2805 Meadows Dr River Falls, WI 54022
(Street / PO Box, City, State, Zip Code)

Event Information
Event Title:

Rally

(YHQW/RFDWLRQVeteran's Park

Date of Event: 10/17/26

Proposed Start Time: 10:30 AM

Estimated Number of Attendees: 100

Proposed End Time: 12:30 PM

Date of Event Setup:

Dateof Event Take'own: 10/17/26

Is the event:

Public?

✔

Will admission fees be required?

Number of Staff Working: 10

Private?

If yes, provide amounts: no

%ULHI'HVFULSWLRQRI(YHQW
Music and speeches/rally
Event Marketing (Please describe how the event will be marketed):
Work of mouth
Will alcohol be served/sold"

Yes

No ✔

If yes, see Appendix A

Will food be served/sold?

Yes

No ✔

If yes, see Appendix B

Will items or services be sold?

Yes

No ✔

Will there be fireworkV?

Yes

No ✔

,f yes, see Appendix C

Is this a run/walk/bike evenW"

Yes

No ✔

If yes, fill out first page and Appendix D

Is this a block party?

Yes

No ✔

,f yes, fill out first page and Appendix E

,VWKLVDSDUDGH"

Yes

No ✔

,I\HVILOORXWILUVWSDJHDQG$SSHQGL[)

Proof of insurance and
affidavit of applicant attached?

<HV

1R

Needed if filling out A, B, or C. See
Appendix *.

If yes, see Appendix B

Page 2

Site Plan
Please attach a supplemental document or draw the following information below:
An outline of the entire event area
The location of fencing, barriers and/or barricades. Indicate any removable fencing for
emergency access
The provision of minimum twenty-foot (20’) emergency access lanes to and/or through the
event venue
The location of first aid facilities
The location of all stages, platforms, scaffolding, bleachers, grandstands, canopies, tents,
portable toilets, booths, beer gardens, cooking areas, trash containers and dumpsters, and
other temporary structures
A detail or close-up of the food booth/truck configurations and identification of all vendors
cooking with flammable gases or barbecue grills
Generator locations and/or sources of electricity
Placement of vehicles and/or trailers
Exit locations of outdoor events that are fences and/or locations within tents and tent
structures
Identification of all event components that meet accessibility standards
Other related event components not listed above (e.g. parking).
Drawing (or attach supplement):

Page 3

Security Plan
Have you hired a licensed professional security company for the event?
Name:

E-mail:

Organization:

Phone:

Yes

No ✔

Address:
(Street / PO Box, City, State, Zip Code)

'escribe your security plan including crowd control, internal security or venue safety.
We have 12 people designated for security and saftey. They will have yellow vests. There will
not be that many people.

Will street closing be required?

No ✔

Yes

If yes, please describe below.

Sanitation/Recycling
Are there onsite restrooms?

Yes ✔

No

Details on number of stools/urinals for both men and women, as well as number of sinks.
Any business on Main street has bathrooms!

Will portable toilets be required? 

Yes

No ✔
Phone:

Name of provider:
Number of regular and ADA accessible:
Number of trash cans:

Dumpsters:

Recycling Containers:

Page 4

Entertainment and Related Activities
Yes ✔

Details:

No

Are there any musical entertainment features related to your event? If
yes, describe below. Include number of stages, number of
bands/performers (including band name and music type), scheduled
playing times, etc.

We will have a very small band others will provide the music for one hour or so and
a PA system.

Yes ✔

No

Will sound amplification be used?

Yes ✔

No

Will your event include the use of any signs, banners, decoration, or
special lighting? If yes, please describe.

Details:

We will have signs and banners.

Other City Services Requested
All requests for City assistance in the form of equipment, facilities, personnel, and other assistance
shall be on a case-by-case basis.
Do you need additional electricity?

Yes ✔

No

Do you need barricades, traffic cones, of fencing?

Yes

No ✔

Do you need picnic tables?

Yes

Will you be using a City owned shelter or building?

Yes ✔
Yes

No ✔
No

Would you like to request anything else from the City?

No ✔
If yes to any of the above questions, please describe what you are requesting from the City.
We need the electricity in the small band shell TURNED ON before the event on Saturday,
October 20th.
THANK YOU SO MUCH!

6

MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council

FROM:

Adam Martinson, Project Manager
Erica Ellefson, Public Works Manager

DATE:

October 13, 2026

TITLE:

RESOLUTION APPROVING THE REPAIR OF DAMAGED STORMWATER
PIPE AND BANK STABILIZATION UNDER THE SOUTH MAIN STREET
BRIDGE

RECOMMENDED ACTION
Adopt a resolution approving a proposal from Total Excavating & Grading to repair damaged
storm sewer and perform bank stabilization in the amount of $87,789.
BACKGROUND
The South Main Street bridge was constructed in 1982 and remains a critical component of our
transportation infrastructure carrying vehicular and pedestrian traffic over the South Fork of the
Kinnikinnick River. In 2020, a historic flooding event damaged stormwater infrastructure and
caused embankment erosion adjacent to the southern bridge abutment.

DISCUSSION

Bridge inspection reports identified the failed storm sewer may be contributing to accelerated
streambank erosion on the south slope of the bridge and should be replaced to prevent additional
erosion and rip rap should be placed adjacent to the bridge abutment to mitigate scour damage
to the concrete abutment.
City staff solicited quotes from Total Excavating & Grading, Albrightson Excavating Inc, Pember
Companies, American Express Transport, and A1 Excavating. Total Excavating was the only
contractor who submitted a quote for the repairs. Staff believe the proposal received is a fair price
for the complexity of repair work needed.
The quote includes removal of damaged stormwater pipe, installation of reinforced concrete pipe
(RCP), RCP endwall, erosion control, tree removal, site restoration, and of rip rap installed along
the embankment under the bridge,
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATION
Attached is the submitted proposal which breaks the cost into two sections. The Rip Rap section
is proposed to be funded by the general fund streets maintenance budget, and the Storm Pipe
repairs are proposed to be funded by the stormwater utility.

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
October 13, 2026
Page 2

Sources
General Fund – Streets Maintenance
Stormwater Fund

Amount Uses
$42,499 Total Excavating & Grading
$45,290

Total Sources

$87,789 Total Uses

Amount
$87,789
$87,789

CONCLUSION
Staff recommend City Council award the proposal for repair of the damaged stormwater pipe and
bank stabilization under the South Main Street bridge to Total Excavating & Grading in the amount
of $87,789 and authorizes the City Administrator to execute the quote for services.

Southern view of the riverbank under the South Main Bridge

RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE REPAIR OF DAMAGED STORMWATER PIPE AND BANK
STABILIZATION UNDER THE SOUTH MAIN STREET BRIDGE
WHEREAS, the 2026 bridge inspection report identified failed storm sewer may be contributing
to accelerated streambank erosion on the south slope of the South Main Street bridge; and
WHEREAS, rip rap should be placed adjacent to the bridge abutment to mitigate scour damage
to the concrete abutment; and
WHEREAS, the City of River Falls solicited proposals to repair the damaged stormwater pipe
and bank stabilization under the South Main Street bridge from five qualified contractors; and
WHEREAS, Total Excavating & Grading submitted the only proposal for $87,789; and
WHEREAS, Engineering and Public Works Department staff have reviewed the proposal and
determined it to be acceptable; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the River Falls Common Council award the proposal
to Total Excavating & Grading for the repair of the damaged stormwater pipe and bank
stabilization under the South Main Street Bridge and authorize the City Administrator to enter
into an agreement for the same.
Dated this 13th day of October 2026.

__________________________

Alison H. Page, Mayor
ATTEST:

________________________________
Jackie Hanson, Deputy City Clerk

7
Administrator’s Report
October 27, 6:30 p.m. – Council Meeting
November 10, 6:30 p.m. – Council Meeting

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Ensure sustained (re)development of the city from the prospect stage through construction
• Brookgreen – Occupancy granted for Buildings 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and Clubhouse. Buildings 7-10 are under
construction.
• Oak Hill – 1 permit issued, 2 COs issued.
• The Preserve – 0 permits issued, 2 COs issued.
• Thompson Heights – 0 permits issued, 1 CO issued.
• Wildflower Meadows – 11 permits issued
• Plan Commission reviewed a revised ordinance relating to driveway width at their September meeting
and forwarded it to Council with a favorable recommendation.
Permit Type
Building Permits
New Home Permits

BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED
Permit Value
SEPTEMBER
YTD
SEPTEMBER
23
213
$3,713,650
13
67
$3,035,000

Permit Value
YTD
$49,523,880
$17,106,000

Kinnickinnic River Corridor Plan Phase I
• Senator Baldwin included the Kinni Corridor Project design funding in her list for 2027 congressionally
directed spending initiatives. We’ll know more later this year if it advances.
Library renovations
• The majority of the library remodel is complete including renovation of the “solarium” and some
additional work on the basement meeting rooms.
Fire Station Remodel
• The new apparatus bay is expected to be available to store equipment within the next two months. After
equipment can be moved, work will commence on the existing fire station.
Innovation Center Expansion
• In September 2026, the City and River Falls Economic Development Corporation was awarded a
$2,195,204 grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to expand the Innovation
Center.
Glen Park Phase II
• Staff is working to determine next steps for implementing Phase 2 of the Glen Park Master Plan.
Downtown Project
• The Safe Streets for All Implementation Grant application has been submitted for a downtown
reconstruction project, and we expect to be notified in Fall 2026 if that grant application is successful.
Conservation and Parks Division
• Summer Recreation Programming has wrapped up for the 2026 season. Programs, including youth
baseball, soccer, flag football, and variety of mini-camps, saw over 1,100 participants.
• The Glen Park Pool and Splash Pad are now closed for 2026. The pool recorded over 10,000 visitors
and swimming lessons served 287 participants.
• Staff will be planting 290 trees throughout the City – in both boulevards and parks - to continue replacing
canopy lost to EAB.

Locust Street design
• Roadway design is ongoing and expected to be completed in October 2026. The project will provide a
looped watermain connection to the Oak Hill subdivision and a roadway and multi-use trail connection
from Apollo Road to West Locust Street (adjacent to the School District Bus Garage). The project is
anticipated to go before Council upon design completion to request authorization to proceed with the
project.
Stewardship of Public Infrastructure
• The 2026 Mill and Overlay project was completed in September. City staff prepared a grant application
and the City was awarded a Wisconsin Local Roads Improvement Grant for $50,000 to support this
project.
Mapping
• Map of available sites for development
• Map of active development projects map

POLICE DEPARTMENT
Training
• September 9-11th – CIB Conference – Tricia Traynor
• September 10-11th – Search Warrants, Affidavits & the Development of Probable Cause – Inv Thomas
• September 16-18th – FTO Basic with Field Training Solutions – Ofc Horn
• September 16th – ERU Training – Sgt Walker, Sgt Rudesill, Ofc Fairbairn, Ofc M. Miller, Ofc Amaro
• September 23rd – In-House Training – Sgt Hokkanen, Sgt Anderson, Sgt Walker, Inv Thomas, Ofc
Jensen, Ofc Kober, Ofc Fleischhacker, Ofc Olson, Ofc Perry, Ofc Amaro

FIRE DEPARTMENT
Run Volume
In September 2026, we responded to a total of 31 calls for service, which compares to 29 calls for the
same period in 2025. Year to date: 2026 = 305 calls; 2025 = 282 calls.
Activities/Highlights
• Completed 176 fire inspections in September, bringing our 2026 annual inspections total to 969.
o For the second year in a row, we have successfully completed all our annual inspection in a 12month (Oct 1, 2025 - Sept 30, 2026) period
• Participated in several 9/11 remembrance events on September 11 in recognition of the 25th
anniversary:
o City Council Meeting - 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Proclamation (Thank You!!)
o Fire Station 9/11 Flag Display
o Travis Manion 9/11 Heroes Run - Glen Park
o 343 Run - Highway 94
• Held our annual Fire Department Open House with a great turnout from the community.
o Raised $417 for the River Falls Food Pantry.
• Kicked off Fire Safety Education in River Falls elementary schools
o Began our annual fire safety education program, which visits each elementary school and
provides age-appropriate fire safety education to students from Pre-K through 5th grade.
o This is a significant effort and one of the most important fire prevention and community
education programs we provide.
• Invisible Wounds Project - Ride Against Suicide
o Provided a joint River Falls Police Department and Fire Department escort for the Invisible
Wounds Project as they held their Ride Against Suicide on September 23

UTILITIES
Electric
• Crews have started installing equipment and preparing cable for the Division St. feeder extension. This
will solve the outage problems in Highview Meadows. Phase two will take place next year. This year is
from Hwy 65 overpass to the tunnel under Division St.
Customer Service
• Customer Service staff began the disconnection process by sending disconnection letters on
September 9 to 181 residential customers and 10 businesses with a past due balance of $250.00 or
more.
• Outbound reminder calls were made to 127 customers on September 15. In addition, 61 text messages
were sent September 18 as a final form of communication prior to disconnection.
• A total of seven disconnections took place on September 21, with four additional disconnections taking
place on September 22, 28 and 29 for failure to pay on a payment arrangement. There were 63
payment arrangements established prior to disconnection day to avoid disconnections and provide
more time to pay off the past due utilities balance.
• Customer Service scheduled 32 service requests for the water department. Of those, 13 were water
meter exchanges.
• There were 172 new utility service requests to process during the late part of August to early part of
September. Of these, 135 were new tenants moving into River Falls for the start of the 2026-2027
school year.
Water/Wastewater department
• Mound Reservoir: The reservoir was drained and inspected by Lane Tank. SEH also completed a
structural condition review and will provide an updated report. Lane Tank will submit its inspection
report to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) once completed.
• Sycamore Water Tower: The tower was drained and inspected by Lane Tank. Lane Tank will submit
its inspection report to WDNR once completed.
• Water Valve V546: Bettendorf and City crews repaired Water Valve V546, which feeds the watermain
crossing the Kinnickinnic River. This repair will complete a loop that has been out of service. However,
the line may be susceptible to freezing during the winter, which could result in additional operational
issues.

10

MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Page and City Council Members

FROM:

Scot Simpson, City Administrator

DATE:

October 13, 2026

TITLE:

COUNCIL DISCUSSION: TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON DATA CENTERS

INTRODUCTION
A new business item has been added to the October 13 agenda titled “Temporary Moratorium on
Data Centers”. This discussion is intended to provide the City Council with an opportunity to discuss
whether the City of River Falls should consider a temporary moratorium on data center development
within City limits. The request follows the approved practice of adding agenda items by
councilmembers in accordance with the Council’s bylaws.
BACKGROUND
A request was brought forward by Councilmember Downing, with support from Councilmembers
Abdouch and Page, to place the discussion of a temporary data center moratorium on the Council
agenda. The purpose of the discussion is to determine whether the Council would like staff to
undertake additional work related to data centers, which may include conducting further research,
developing options and potential parameters for a temporary moratorium, or preparing a proposed
temporary moratorium for future Council consideration. No temporary moratorium is being presented
for adoption as part of this agenda item.
DISCUSSION
Moratoriums
In the land-use context, a moratorium is a temporary pause on specified development approvals or
activities. Its purpose is generally to preserve the status quo while a municipality studies an emerging
issue and determines whether new or amended regulations are appropriate.
A moratorium therefore generally has three components:
•
•
•

Temporary: It has a defined end point rather than permanently prohibiting a use.
Targeted: It identifies the activities, applications, land uses or geographic areas affected.
Purpose-driven: The municipality identifies work it intends to complete during the pause,
such as studying infrastructure impacts or amending its zoning ordinance.

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
October 13, 2026
Page 2
Statutory Considerations
Wis. Stat. § 66.1002 defines a “development moratorium” as a moratorium on rezoning or approving
subdivisions or other land divisions by plat or certified survey map under Chapter 236. A moratorium
within that definition must satisfy the statute’s eligibility and findings requirements. Any moratorium
must also identify the problem, corrective actions, affected area, and justified duration, and exempt
activities having no or only slight impact on the identified problem. A public hearing with published
notice at least 30 days beforehand is required. The moratorium’s duration must relate to the time
needed to address the problem and may not exceed 12 months, with one extension of up to six
months if necessary.
Cities also possess zoning authority under Wis. Stat. § 62.23(7)(am) and general governmental
powers under Wis. Stat. § 62.11(5), subject to applicable state limitations. The City Attorney should
evaluate the legal authority and procedures for any proposed moratorium based on its scope and
the approvals affected, including its treatment of previously submitted applications.
Data Centers
The Wisconsin Policy Forum report Grounding a Charged Debate: Data Centers in Wisconsin
supplements this memo by providing additional context on data center development in Wisconsin
and its implications for municipalities. This memorandum does not duplicate the statewide policy
considerations addressed in the Wisconsin Policy Forum’s report. Instead, this memorandum
focuses on circumstances specific to River Falls that are relevant to the narrower question of
whether a temporary moratorium is warranted.
If Council directs staff to prepare a temporary moratorium or other data center regulations, clearly
defining “data center” will help establish which uses are affected. An overly broad definition could
inadvertently extend those requirements to businesses, hospitals, UWRF, financial institutions, or
other organizations that maintain servers for their own operations.
Mann Valley as a Potential Location
Mann Valley was planned to attract large-scale industrial developers seeking large, contiguous sites.
It is currently the only area within City limits with at least 50 acres of developable land. The Mann
Valley plan allows for a potential lot size of approximately 165 acres, with lots totaling more than 200
acres. Water, sewer, roadway, utility and fiber infrastructure, along with access to STH 35 through
the Radio Road interchange, support this intended use.
Electrical transmission access is also a site requirement for industrial developers with large power
demands. Staff initially identified an ability to serve approximately 5 to 10 MW in Mann Valley,
depending on the type of electrical load. Serving demand at the scale proposed by the smallest of
the hyperscale data centers under consideration in Wisconsin would require access to transmission
infrastructure operating at 345 kilovolts (kV), along with major electrical improvements to provide the
necessary capacity.
Other Potential Development Areas
While Mann Valley is the primary existing location for any type of large-scale industrial development,
it is not necessarily the only area in or around River Falls that could be evaluated for a project of that
scale. There are large parcels or open areas that exist near the City, including properties near
existing City utilities and regional electric transmission infrastructure.

Project Badger Case Study
Project Overview
The City’s evaluation of Mann Valley as a potential site for a data center was
not limited to a general overview of site readiness. In late 2023, staff began
discussions with stakeholders related to a proposed hyperscale data center
campus (Project Badger). Project Badger involved Rowan Digital
Infrastructure, a developer that constructs data center buildings and the
infrastructure needed to serve them, who then leases the facilities to large
technology operators. Although the City received a project termination letter
on January 28, 2026, the evaluation produced additional information about
the property, electrical infrastructure requirements, costs, and
development schedule (see Figure 1 for more information).
Figure 1
Project Badger Data and Projections
Metric
City Total Equalized Value (2026)

Value
$2.3 billion

City Median Household Income (2025)

$83,090

% Change in Billions of Gallons of Water
Pumped by RFMU (2000 to 2025)

-1.68%

Data Center Developer
Data Center Size (MW)

Rowan Digital
Infrastructure
First Phase: 100 MW;
Full Power: 315 MW

Proposed Land Purchase Price

~$24.4 million

Proposed Development Acreage

195 acres

Approximate Data Center Capital Investment

$500 million*

Approximate Data Center Local Tax Revenue

$2 million annually

Peak Construction Jobs

600+

Ongoing Job Creation

20-50

Located in a Tax Increment District?

Yes

Based on projections discussed with Rowan Digital Infrastructure
*does not include investment into equipment

The proposal initially involved approximately 160 acres in Lot 2 of Mann Valley
and later expanded to approximately 195 acres across Lots 1 and 2. The
proposed land purchase price increased from $20 million to approximately
$24.4 million as the additional land was incorporated. These were discussed
transaction terms; no land sale was completed.
The project contemplated increasing electrical capacity from approximately
100 MW in an initial phase to approximately 315 MW at full development. The
number and size of buildings remained dependent on available power, the
eventual customer’s requirements, and final site design. The project did not
proceed to the site submittal phase and evaluation.
Evaluation Process
Project Badger undertook significant due diligence to evaluate whether the
Mann Valley property location could support the proposed development’s
electric demands. This included an electric study and facilities study.
Electric Feasibility and Facilities Studies
The electric capacity review proceeded in two principal stages. The System
Impact Study evaluated whether the proposed demand could be served reliably
and identified potential improvements to the transmission system, which
carries electricity over high-voltage lines. A Facilities Study then developed
more detailed information about the equipment, layout, estimated cost, and
schedule for a selected connection option.
The System Impact Study was completed in April 2025 at a cost of nearly
$100,000, paid by Project Badger. The study identified two options for reliably
serving the proposed 315 MW demand: a connection to the existing 345 kV
transmission line, initially estimated at approximately $55.5 million. On July 3,
2025, Project Badger paid $250,000 for the Facilities Study. The Facilities Study
estimated approximately $80 million in substation and transmission
connections.
Water/Wastewater
Staff research estimated potential water use of approximately 850,000 to 2
million gallons per day, and wastewater flows of approximately 500,000 gallons
per day. These estimates depended on the eventual customer, type of
computing activity, cooling system, and source-water characteristics. The
figures were planning estimates rather than final operating requirements, and
the project did not reach the evaluation stage. For context, RFMU pumped
1.68% less water in 2025 than in 2000, largely due to improved water-use
efficiency. Additional information on water capacity in the City can be found by
viewing River Falls Municipal Utilities’ Groundwater Availability Evaluation
Report.
Land Agreements, Public Review, and Project Termination
The City and Project Badger entered a Letter of Intent on April 4, 2024. An
amendment extended the initial period through January 31, 2026. The City
received the project termination letter on January 28, 2026, and reported that
development to Council in February.

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
October 13, 2026
Page 5
Implications for Future Development
Staff’s work on Project Badger added to Mann Valley’s large industrial use site readiness by
providing more detailed information about site conditions, potential electrical connections,
infrastructure costs, and development constraints. That information may help the City and a future
developer identify which questions have already been studied and which require additional work. Its
usefulness for another proposal would depend on the type of development, the proposed use and
demand, and confirmation that the earlier assumptions remain applicable.
City as a Developer
As outlined above, the City owns and controls a majority of the lots within Mann Valley. The exception
being the 44-acre property owned by Gary Moelter adjacent to the City-owned parcels, for which the
City holds an option and right of first refusal. This ownership gives Council an additional level of
control over development within the corporate park. In addition:
•
•

Wis. Stat. § 62.11(5) gives the governing bodies of municipalities the management and
control over its own property, finances and public services.
River Falls Municipal Code § 2.04.020 similarly provides that Council has authority over City
property, finances, streets, utilities and public services.

Therefore, if a developer were interested in purchasing a City-owned Mann Valley property, Council's
role as landowner exists in addition to its regulatory role as the zoning authority. Council may decide
not to sell City-owned property for a particular project even if that project could otherwise comply
with zoning. This is different than other cases where a large industrial project has an option on
privately owned land with existing zoning.
Zoning and Land-Use Authority
Under Wis. Stat. § 62.23(7)(am), Council may regulate the location and use of land and buildings
through zoning.
Council therefore has the authority to establish or elaborate on land-use within the Municipal Code
that may:
•
•
•
•
•

Determine where data centers may be located
Whether data centers may be permitted, prohibited or special/conditional uses;
Building height and dimensional requirements;
Screening, setbacks and site-design standards; and
Other valid land-use regulations within the City's statutory authority.

Municipal Utility Governance
The Utility Advisory Board (UAB) advises Council regarding electric, water, sewer and stormwater
infrastructure, but the utilities remain subject to the general control and supervision of the City
Council. Council also reviews and authorizes utility expenditures and utility rate structures, subject
to applicable state regulations.
A large industrial project (such as a data center) may require decisions regarding:
•

New substations or distribution infrastructure;

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
October 13, 2026
Page 6
•
•
•
•
•
•

Water-system improvements;
Wastewater capacity;
Capital expenditures;
Extension agreements;
Special electric tariffs or contracts; and
Coordination with wholesale and transmission providers.

The PSC regulates the municipal electric and water utilities that may serve a data center, including
applicable rates and tariffs, and may need to approve major new water, generation, or transmission
infrastructure required to support the facility. While the PSC has noted that some Wisconsin data
centers could become among the state’s largest electricity users, it does not approve or deny a data
center itself as a land use.
Economic Development and TIF
Mann Valley is in TID No. 19, which was established to fund infrastructure and facilitate Corporate
Park development.
Council controls whether the City enters into development agreements or provides discretionary City
economic-development assistance.
Areas Outside of Council Control
Council does not directly control:
•
•
•
•

PSC regional electric transmission planning and impact on rates;
Approval of regulated utility infrastructure or rates;
Federal or state environmental permits; and
The commercial operations of a lawful data center beyond valid local regulation.

Impacts of a Council Moratorium
Council has several control points when it comes to a data center being constructed within City limits,
particularly related to zoning, municipal utilities, economic-development decisions, and current
ownership of the Mann Valley lots.
Items to Consider for Municipal Review (With or Without a Moratorium)
For a municipality, the principal considerations associated with a large-scale facility typically include:
•
•
•
•
•

Land use: acreage, building size, setbacks, screening, neighboring uses and
compatibility with long-range plans.
Electricity: total demand, distribution capacity, transmission improvements, substations
and who bears infrastructure costs.
Water: quantity required, cooling method, peak demand and whether wells, treatment,
storage and distribution infrastructure can support the project.
Wastewater and stormwater: discharge characteristics, impervious area and
infrastructure capacity.
Noise: cooling equipment, transformers and particularly backup generator testing.

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council
October 13, 2026
Page 7
•
•
•

Transportation: intensive construction traffic followed generally by comparatively low
employee/vehicle traffic once operational.
Economic development: capital investment and tax base weighed against land
consumption, infrastructure commitments and employment levels.
Public safety: fire protection, hazardous materials, battery systems, generator fuel and
emergency response requirements.

Considerations for a Moratorium
A temporary moratorium may provide time to evaluate data center impacts and consider regulatory
changes. Staff recommends defining the work program before determining whether a moratorium is
necessary and, if so, its scope and duration. Potential work includes:
•
•
•
•
•

Defining “data center,” including distinctions by scale or electrical demand, and
determining appropriate zoning districts and whether facilities should be permitted uses,
special uses, or subject to another approval process.
Identifying application requirements to evaluate large utility and infrastructure demands.
Reviewing electric utility procedures for large new loads, including infrastructure, cost
allocation, financial security, and the relationship between zoning approval and municipal
utility commitments.
Evaluating whether existing development standards, including the Corporate Park
ordinance, adequately address data centers’ physical characteristics and impacts, and
identifying any needed performance standards.
Preparing recommended amendments to zoning, utility policies, development-review
requirements, or other City regulations, and completing applicable Plan Commission,
public hearing, and Council processes.

If Council directs further work, staff could complete it while continuing to process applications under
existing zoning, development-review, utility, and other requirements. This approach may be
appropriate if staff determines those requirements adequately address the identified concerns while
more specific standards are developed.
A temporary moratorium may warrant consideration if staff identifies a significant regulatory gap that
existing review processes would not adequately address during that period. Council should evaluate
whether addressing that gap requires a temporary pause on specified applications or approvals,
subject to applicable legal requirements.
CONCLUSION
Discussion of a temporary data center moratorium has been placed on the October 13 agenda as
new business for Council’s consideration. Based on Council discussion, the policy next steps are:
•
•
•

Take no further action; or
Direct staff to review items or issues of concern further without a moratorium; or
Direct staff to prepare a moratorium in advance of items or issues of concern further.