Plan Commission approves Elegant Farmer event venue, adds upgraded lighting condition

The Mukwonago Plan Commission voted to recommend approval of a conditional use permit for an assembly hall at 1545 South Main Street and to approve the related site-plan recommendation, adding a condition for upgraded decorative lighting. Planner (staff) summarized that the venue is a conditional use in the B2 district and that staff had coordinated fire, parking and lighting reviews with department heads.

Public questions raised by nearby residents centered on noise, overflow parking and alcohol service. Resident Lauren Bernal asked whether overflow parking would force traffic onto County Highway J and how late music or fireworks would be handled. David Wessel, representing Elegant Farmer, said, “We do not have plans for fireworks,” and described a plan with 103 paved parking spaces intended to serve typical events and a staffing plan for larger gatherings. Judy Schmidt of Elegant Farmer added that the applicant would “absolutely” avoid using the hill/overflow lot for weddings and suggested clearing that space by a stated hour.

Commissioners pressed for enforceable language. One commissioner urged that primary event parking be limited to paved areas and asked that the plan-of-operation reflect that requirement; the Planner said staff can add a line that “primary parking must be on the paved areas” to the ongoing conditions of the conditional-use permit. Commissioner (speaker 9) moved to approve Resolution 2026-48 and to include the upgraded lighting discussed; the motion carried by voice vote. The related site-plan/architectural recommendation (PC Resolution 2026-08) likewise passed with the commission noting the plan-of-operation and lighting condition.

What happens next: The Plan Commission recommendation goes to the Village Board for final action, and staff noted department sign-offs and any required revisions to the plan-of-operation will be completed prior to final approval.