Resident urges council to consider changes to residency restrictions after decade without new offenses

Daniel Pierce told the Waukesha Common Council on July 1 that he is listed on the “Wisconsin *** offender registry” from a 2008 Colorado case and said the listing has made it difficult to find housing and operate his towing business.

Pierce said he has been clear of parole and probation for more than 10 years and asked what the city can do so people in his situation can secure affordable housing and become taxpayers. He said zoning and proximity restrictions routinely exclude otherwise affordable units or put potential rentals out of reach.

The presiding officer told Pierce that council members could consult the city attorney and that any changes to the city’s residency ordinance would require a referral from a council member. “You won’t get an answer as to what you can do. However, all the members of the common council that have heard you, they would be able to talk to the city attorney if they want any change in our ordinance, and they can bring it forth,” the presiding officer said.

Pierce also told the council that a city staff member he spoke with, identified in the remarks as Mr. Running, had helped him with residency questions and zoning issues. He said the main barriers have been zoning limitations tied to childcare centers and other land uses, and the cost of rent where residency is allowed.

The council did not take any formal action at the July 1 meeting on Pierce’s request. The presiding officer and meeting materials said council members may independently seek advice from the city attorney and could introduce a referral or ordinance change at a later date.

Pierce concluded his three-minute public comment by thanking the council. No council member moved to refer the matter during the meeting.