Watertown approves Grama LLC housing development agreement after sidewalk dispute; developer open to one-side sidewalk

The Watertown Common Council on Aug. 19 approved a development agreement between the city and Grama LLC to add new single‑family housing, after aldermen debated whether the subdivision should require sidewalks on both sides of the streets. The motion to approve the agreement (exhibit 9,774) was made by Alder Davis and seconded by Alder Lampe; the council carried the measure on a roll-call vote.

Why it matters: The agreement brings new housing supply to the city without tax‑increment financing (TIF/TID‑free), a point several council members highlighted as adding net new homes and expanding the tax base. The sidewalk requirement drew public comment from council members and the developer, who said construction timing would be delayed if the agreement were not approved promptly.

What was debated: Alderman Blankie said the developer had asked to put sidewalks on only one side of the street and that municipal code language requiring sidewalks on both sides was "ambiguous at best" and left too much discretion to staff. He told the council he preferred a one‑side sidewalk pattern used in the neighboring Hep Heights development. Alderman Smith said the council should consider a future modification if it wanted to change the developer’s agreement rather than block the project now. The developer, who identified himself as Mr. Warren, told the council the project has money invested already and that sidewalks are typically one of the last construction items; he said Grama LLC would be "open to doing sidewalks on one side of the street" but wanted the council to pass the agreement so work could start before winter. City staff clarified that single‑family developments typically are not financed through TIF.

Outcome and next steps: The council approved the development agreement; aldermen indicated they may revisit sidewalk requirements later. Roll-call votes recorded: Davis — aye; Lampe — aye; Berg — aye; Bartz — aye; Blenke — aye; Smith — aye; Arnett — aye; Wetzel — aye; Moldenhauer — aye.

Discussion vs. decision: The council approved a binding development agreement tonight; discussion items (municipal-code sidewalk requirements and possible future amendments) were left open for future council consideration.

Clarifying details: The developer said sidewalks are typically installed late in development and that delaying approval could prevent construction from starting before winter. Alderman Blankie requested staff and the planning commission review the municipal code for clarity on sidewalk requirements for future projects.