Germantown residents criticize board over Blackstone Creek development proposal at village meeting

The Village Board of Germantown convened on February 3, 2025, with a focus on community concerns regarding proposed developments and governance transparency. Trustee Baum was elected as chair pro tem in the absence of President Alter, setting the stage for a meeting that would address significant public input.

A key moment came during the citizen input segment, where members of the newly formed Germantown Taxpayer Accountability Group voiced strong opposition to a controversial land exchange proposal known as Blackstone Creek. This proposal involves the owner of a local golf course seeking to swap wetland property for a parcel of parkland that currently hosts recreational facilities. Residents expressed alarm over what they perceive as a conflict of interest, citing the owner's ties to the economic development committee and concerns about the lack of public meetings and cost analyses related to the proposal.

One resident articulated the group's stance, stating, "The board has been irresponsible in managing our tax dollars," and criticized the perceived rush to approve the land swap without adequate community engagement. The proposal's financial implications, including a tax investment financing tactic viewed as a potential tax dodge, were also highlighted as problematic.

In addition to the land exchange discussions, residents raised concerns about the removal of the municipal code button from the village website and the future of the community's siren system, emphasizing the need for a replacement plan before any removal occurs.

The meeting underscored a growing demand for transparency and accountability from the Village Board, with residents eager for more inclusive discussions on development projects. As the board prepares for upcoming meetings, including a plan commission session on February 5, community members are poised to continue advocating for their interests and ensuring their voices are heard in local governance.