Middleton plans to streamline development processes to attract investment

The City of Middleton's Housing Strategy and Finance Subcommittee convened on May 13, 2025, to discuss key aspects of the city's development processes and fees impacting housing projects. A significant focus of the meeting was the recent discontinuation of emergency service fees, which had been in place since the construction of the city's emergency services buildings in 2007 and 2010. The fees were phased out within the last six months, providing developers with potential savings that could facilitate new housing projects.

Committee members expressed interest in understanding the complete development process for builders in Middleton. They requested comprehensive materials that outline the steps and associated fees involved in obtaining approvals for various types of developments. Abby, a city representative, confirmed that flowcharts detailing the development process have been created but not yet published. These charts will help clarify the different requirements for projects, such as subdivisions versus multifamily buildings.

The discussion also highlighted concerns about the length of time it takes to approve projects in Middleton. A recent study by Smart Growth Madison indicated that the city scored poorly in this area compared to other communities. However, Abby noted that the approval timeline can vary significantly based on the complexity of individual projects, particularly when developers request assistance that deviates from established city policies.

The committee members proposed that the Plan Commission take on the task of streamlining the development process to make Middleton a more attractive location for new housing. They emphasized the importance of balancing efficient approvals with maintaining the city's standards and policies. The overall goal is to enhance the development experience while ensuring that the community continues to thrive, particularly given the city's strong educational offerings that already attract new residents.

Next steps include the potential publication of the flowcharts and fee schedules, as well as further discussions on how to improve the development process in Middleton.