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Plan Commission discusses Wisconsin Act 173’s 'truth-in-planning' implications for De Pere comprehensive plan
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Summary
Planning staff briefed commissioners on Wisconsin Act 173, which the staff described as creating a 'truth in planning' expectation to identify maximum developable units; commissioners discussed whether to revise the comprehensive plan now and recommended seeking guidance from development staff and the League of Wisconsin Municipalities.
Planning staff briefed the De Pere Plan Commission April 27 on Wisconsin Act 173 (2025) and how it could affect the city's comprehensive plan, zoning classifications and tax incremental districts (TIDs).
"The primary change that we notice... is it's creating a thing that, kind of is nicknamed as truth in planning where we would need to or want to identify the potential number of developable units on a property before somebody were to build on it," a planning staff member told the commission. Staff said this could require identifying maximum build-out on properties while the comprehensive plan is in development.
Commissioners discussed options: pause and revise the comp plan now, make targeted modifications, or seek outside guidance. One commissioner suggested using the League of Wisconsin Municipalities for guidance and recommended piloting a sample area rather than redoing the entire plan. Members also raised concerns about workload and whether the comp plan should remain broad enough to allow flexibility.
Discussion touched on TIDs: commissioners noted prior state changes reduced the amount cities recoup from TIDs and welcomed a separate extension that allows extra time to gather affordability monies. No formal action was taken; staff sought direction and commissioners agreed to pursue further guidance, including consulting Dan in development services and the League.
Next steps: staff will consult development services and consider outreach to the League of Wisconsin Municipalities for guidance on any necessary comp plan adjustments and return to the commission with options.
