Prescott Council debates spot zoning for Jerry Clausen's taxidermy business proposal

The Regular Council meeting held on May 12, 2025, in New Richmond, Wisconsin, focused on a proposed zoning change for a parcel of land owned by Jerry Clausen. The discussion centered around the potential establishment of a taxidermy business on the property, which is currently zoned for residential use.

Clausen, who owns 33 acres of land adjacent to the Willow River, expressed his desire to maintain the natural setting of the area while allowing for the development of a 15,000 square foot building for his business. He emphasized that the operation would not involve heavy manufacturing and would have minimal traffic, as it would not require a large workforce.

However, the council members raised concerns about the implications of spot zoning, which refers to the practice of changing the zoning of a specific area within a larger zone. The current zoning designation is suburban residential, and the proposed change to allow industrial use could set a precedent for future developments in the area. Council members highlighted the potential long-term consequences of allowing industrial use in a predominantly residential neighborhood, noting that such decisions could lead to unwanted developments in the future.

The discussion included the possibility of placing a covenant on the property to restrict future uses to only the taxidermy business, should the zoning change be approved. However, council members expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of such covenants, given that zoning designations typically remain with the property regardless of ownership changes.

Ultimately, the council acknowledged the unique nature of Clausen's business but remained cautious about the broader implications of altering the zoning. The meeting concluded without a definitive decision, indicating that further consideration and discussion would be necessary before any zoning changes could be approved. The council's deliberations reflect a commitment to balancing economic development with the preservation of community character and residential integrity.