Developer pauses Main Street Station project; council okays Housing Authority lending authority

Fiduciary Real Estate Development told the council it asked city staff to temporarily withdraw applications related to the Main Street Station (Backus) site to allow more neighbor outreach and to correct inaccuracies raised during recent public hearings. Steve Bursell, president of Fiduciary, said the firm is local, employs subcontractors from Dane County and wants to continue discussions with residents and alders before proceeding.

Residents spoke both for and against additional apartment development. Scott Seid said local vacancy rates appear to be rising and urged caution about adding more market‑rate apartments; he showed a site view and said a proposed building would sit about 90 feet from his backyard line. Patrick McElfresh and others urged the council to continue supporting affordable housing and thoughtful development.

Separately, the council approved resolution 25‑033, declaring a need for the Housing Authority of Dane County (HADC) to exercise its powers within the City of Verona. Councilors said future affordable housing loans or projects by HADC would still come before the Plan Commission and the city for approvals; the resolution is intended to enable HADC lending and programs in coordination with local processes.

Fiduciary said it will return after additional neighborhood engagement; the council approved the HADC resolution by voice vote.