Plan Commission rezones two parcels to expand Dash Park

The Onalaska Plan Commission unanimously approved rezoning two vacant parcels at 114 and 120 Third Avenue South from Mixed Use Neighborhood (MUN) to Parks and Open Space (P2) to facilitate an expansion of Dash Park.

Katie Aspenson, planning staff, told commissioners the two parcels total about 0.39 acres and that the developer’s conceptual site plan shows park features including shelters, a small fountain, restrooms, seating and open recreation space connected to the existing Dash Park. "Included is a cover letter describing the project as well as a conceptual site plan showing the location of park features," Aspenson said.

Commissioners asked about ownership, maintenance and timing. Alder Jim Benash questioned whether the rezoned land would remain privately owned and how maintenance would be handled if the city eventually owned the property. Rick Niemeyer, city staff, said a staff member who currently maintains Great River Landing and the existing Dash Park would also maintain the expansion if it became city property. "That individual would also maintain this, so we would have existing staff take care of the expansion in the event it become city property," Niemeyer said. Aspenson added Amanda Jackson, city legal counsel, is drafting an agreement that would describe the transfer and maintenance arrangements; construction is slated for 2025–26 and the city intends to take possession after construction is completed.

A motion to approve the rezoning with the four conditions in the packet was made by Jared Holter and seconded by Tom Smith. The motion passed unanimously.