Plan Commission approves 'musical menagerie' at Patrons Park despite neighbor concerns; member recuses

The Plan Commission voted to approve a site plan for a 'musical menagerie' at Patrons Park (630 Popular Street) presented by West Bend City staff on May 5. The proposal, submitted by the Community Library, calls for nine outdoor musical play instruments, associated signage and a bench; staff recommended approval with conditions on signage and bench placement.

Leona Knapik, who stated she is a member of the board of Roots and Branches, recused herself from the discussion and vote because of that affiliation. Commissioner Jed asked whether sounds produced by the instruments would be audible to adjacent single‑family homes; staff and the project representative said the instruments include toddler‑size pieces expected to be roughly comparable in level to passing traffic and that the area is recessed and partially screened by landscaping. The transcript records that the library director reviewed the design and did not express concern (the director’s name is not specified in the transcript). Commissioners noted enforcement would follow the city’s noise ordinance and that police response would be available for after‑hours complaints; ongoing management could fall to the library board and director.

Despite some reservations expressed about potential audible sounds in summer months, the commission approved the site plan (one commissioner recused). The approval included the staff conditions about signage compliance and bench coordination.