Plan commission approves rezoning to allow triplex at 107–109 9th Street South

The La Crosse City Plan Commission unanimously approved a rezoning petition on Nov. 3 to reclassify property at 107–109 9th Street South from Washburn Residential to R‑3 Residence, allowing the existing duplex to be reconfigured as a triplex.

Deputy Director Acland, presenting staff analysis, said the building currently contains a two‑bedroom unit and a four‑bedroom unit, and the applicant plans to separate an addition and convert a bedroom into a one‑bed efficiency. “The existing footprint of the building will not change,” Acland said, and staff recommended approval as consistent with the comprehensive plan for low‑density residential areas that allow conversions to two‑ and three‑unit structures.

Commissioner Gallagher asked whether the proposal would add a new access point; Acland clarified the work involves repouring and reconfiguring the existing driveway to make on‑site parking more efficient rather than expanding the building footprint or providing new alley access. Councilmember Kalo, who said she had visited the site, praised the applicants’ investment and said the change could “help alleviate some of the issues that can arise when you have a 4‑bedroom” unit.

Commissioner Seamus moved to approve the petition; Commissioner Chirff seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Chair Trost said the approved item will appear on the judiciary administration committee agenda the following night at 6 p.m.

The approval by the plan commission does not itself rezone the property at the city council level; it advances the matter to the next review body and preserves staff’s option to work with applicants on implementation details such as driveway configuration and any subsequent permit requirements.