Council opens 30‑day comment period on comp‑plan amendment for utility substation expansion

The Monroe Common Council adopted a public‑participation plan that will initiate a 30‑day comment period for a proposed comprehensive‑plan amendment and related rezoning request tied to a parcel owned by Wisconsin Power and Light that staff said would be changed to light industrial to accommodate expansion of an electrical substation.

Administrator Brandy explained the adoption codifies the public‑notice and comment process required under state procedures and that the action taken by the council does not approve any rezoning itself. "They are looking to add or expand their their current substation," Brandy said, adding that the council will receive the specific change‑of‑zoning request and associated certified survey map at a subsequent meeting following the 30‑day period.

Council members asked whether the change would affect nearby residences and whether utilities are tax‑exempt; staff said the parcel is owned by Wisconsin Power and Light and that the public‑participation period will provide the public the information needed to comment. Several council members urged that the public be given sufficient background about the proposed change so comments are informed. The initiation of the 30‑day process passed unanimously; the actual rezoning and any formal vote will occur after plan commission review and public hearing.