The Monona Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on May 15, 2025, spotlighted the evolving definition of "hardship" in zoning applications, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Board members discussed how the pandemic has shifted expectations around home and workspaces, with many now requiring dedicated areas for remote work or schooling.

One board member noted that the need for private space at home is no longer unusual, reflecting a broader societal change. "Businesses now are expecting people to be able to stay at home and continue working if they have something that could spread to others," they stated, highlighting the new norms that have emerged since the pandemic.

However, the discussion also revealed concerns about the criteria for determining hardship in zoning applications. A board member expressed uncertainty about whether the current standards adequately reflect these changes, stating, "If all we have to go on is that hardship, and that hardship doesn't meet standards, how much do we have?"

The meeting underscored the need for the board to reassess how they evaluate hardship in light of contemporary realities, suggesting that future decisions may need to adapt to the ongoing impacts of the pandemic on work and living conditions. As the board continues to navigate these discussions, the implications for zoning regulations in Monona could be significant, potentially reshaping how residential spaces are utilized in the community.