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Council approves East Wauwatosa Business Improvement District after extended debate, 13'1
Summary
After extended remarks from alderpersons and local business owners, the council voted 13'1 to create the East Wauwatosa Business Improvement District (BID). Proponents said the BID will provide a reliable funding source for corridor improvements and support local small businesses; opponents warned fees will be passed on to tenants and patrons.
The Common Council approved creation of the East Wauwatosa Business Improvement District (BID) on a 13'1 vote following an extended discussion that included business owners and multiple alderpersons.
Alder Gustafson and several councilmembers urged passage, saying a BID provides a predictable revenue stream and coordinated investment to strengthen a commercial corridor. Gustafson named local business owners supporting the measure and described the BID as a way to "enhance the business environment" and attract further investment.
Opposition centered on concern that assessment fees ultimately fall to tenants or customers. Alder McLeuth said fees will be passed to building owners and businesses, and "ultimately, it's gonna be the residents and the patrons" who pay. Alders who supported the BID countered that successful BIDs in other parts of the city had increased foot traffic and economic activity, offsetting costs for participating businesses.
Local proprietors including operators from Cranky Al's, Nourish, Tosa Yoga, Little Village Play Cafe and Maggio's Pizza spoke in favor during the meeting and were cited by council members as demonstration of local support. The council adopted the resolution establishing the BID after the discussion.
The council did not amend the BID ordinance on the floor; the resolution passed and will be implemented as prescribed in the approved documents.
