Event: RW City Council Workshop, June 22, 2026

All of our elected representatives were present with the exception of Becky Norton.

Workshop Items

North Service Drive Sidewalk Update / Snow Removal Policy

• There is a sidewalk project on North Service Drive.
• Feedback has been gathered from community members and businesses that may be affected by a sidewalk addition.
• Goal tonight was to share what they have learned, make recommendations and look for consensus from the City Council prior to moving forward.
• Of note, in RW Policy, a trail is considered a black top surface, and a sidewalk is a cement walkway.
• Typically, the City or a property owner will maintain sidewalks and trails are not traditionally maintained, some exceptions
• It is recommended/requested that the current snow policy for the City become more nuanced to accommodate the City clearing a section of trail on North Service Drive for increased safety of residents (please see the City’s notes for a map)
• Instead of 24 hours, Public Works is requesting that they have an additional time allowance of 2-3 days to complete the work as needed.
• There is consideration of placing tiers of importance to areas the City is responsible for plowing to help guide staff in completion of the snow removal
• In summary, recommendation tonight is that the North Service Drive project would be an exception to the Snow Removal Policy due to the amount of snow that is anticipated to land here due to it’s close proximity to the road, where significant snow may be pushed in the event of heavy snow fall. It will increase safety for local residents who use this trail through all seasons, so they do not have to walk on the roads. The City will be allowed 2-3 days to complete the work. All members seemed in agreement.

TIF Agreement for Fleischman’s Malting Project

• The City has been working on development of the Fleischman’s Building for 2 years. The demolition of this building is estimated at 750k. Environmental Review has been completed and conversations with the property owner have taken place.
• Port Authority was invited tonight and given opportunity for their input
• It will be a significant investment by the developer and anticipate that they would take advantage of a 26-year tax increment finance assistance offered through the City. History was presented on other properties in the City who were able to take advantage of this TIF program though on a much smaller scale. Anticipate that this could be a catalyst for other projects and would need other projects to likely be successful.
• Options reviewed on finance assist and the need for RW to demonstrate that it is a town worth investing in.
• Limited comparisons locally for the size of the project being suggested – Stillwater to LaCrosse
• C Heineman shared that if this becomes a reality – it is possible, the 26-year term would conclude in 2052 …which if Prairie Island continues for another extension, would be at the same time where the City would benefit from this added revenue at the conclusion of the Prairie Island income and this financial term
• The proposal is very much a proposal, and no definitive plans have been made as they need to still work with the Historical group for approvals.
• The proposal includes a large U-shaped building that is a combination of 2 restaurants, rental apartments (45 units), condos (31 units) and fully furnished studio to 2-bedroom apartments (54 units) that would be a short term lease or single night rentals. Parking would be available underground (2.5 levels) and also on the street with public parking. There would be a gathering place on the rooftop for the residents with a green space. There would be a courtyard.
• In summary, multiple presenters provided overview of TIF finance agreement for this property – what this would mean for the City and a general proposal of what is being considered.