Manitowoc council approves rezoning at Woodland and Memorial after neighborhood protest

The Manitowoc Common Council voted unanimously to adopt an ordinance rezoning parcels at the northwest corner of Woodland Drive and Memorial Drive (parcel 131002330 and part of 131002150). The rezoning converts a portion of the property from C1 commercial to R6 multifamily and a small northern parcel from R4 to C1, a change staff described as a "downzoning" in some respects but consistent with the city’s mixed‑use comprehensive plan.

Adam Tagan, the city’s development director, told the council the developer’s concept envisions a gas station and retail on the C1 portion and multifamily housing on the R6 portion. Tagan and plan‑commission staff recommended approval; he emphasized that site‑plan details — including driveway locations, access to Memorial Drive and any traffic mitigation — will be reviewed separately by planning staff and, where Memorial Drive access is concerned, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

During the public hearing several nearby residents urged the council to deny the rezoning. Judy Dokey, who lives on East Ivy Lane, said the proposal could mean two apartment buildings of 50–80 units each and would dramatically increase traffic on Memorial Drive and small neighborhood streets. Other speakers — including Jamie Duval, Lee Gauthier and Melissa Christiansen — voiced concerns about loss of lake views, traffic and environmental impacts such as wetland runoff near the site. Residents asked for buffers, tree screens and limiting access from neighborhood streets.

Alderman Bridal and other council members acknowledged neighbors’ concerns but noted that much of the property could be developed under current zoning and that final access and design issues will be decided at the site‑plan stage. Council discussion clarified that the rezoning itself does not guarantee the developer’s conceptual layout; it changes the allowable zoning classifications and allows future site plans to be reviewed under the newly adopted zoning. The council adopted the ordinance 9–0.

Next steps: the developer must submit a formal site plan for administrative review by public works, engineering, zoning and building staff; because Memorial Drive is a state highway, DOT approval will be required for any signal changes or direct access to that road. Neighbors requested to be notified (or that their alderman be alerted) when a formal site plan is filed so they may submit further comments.