Letter to the Editor: Gibraltar Redmann Property

I read with interest the article in the Feb. 25 Pulse regarding the TIF process for the development of the Redmann property in Fish Creek (“Gibraltar TIF District Gets Assembly Approval”) and have a couple of comments.

I recently read the minutes of the numerous board and commission meetings held by the town. I continue to be amazed that the Pulse is the best source of information to understand what is going on with local government. Perhaps disappointed or disgusted would be a better description of how I feel about the level of public disclosure of major financial events impacting taxpayers, of which I am one.

Regarding the Redmann development, there should be significantly more public input into the design and future of the property once it involves public financing, incentives and subsidies. Clearly the private development of the parcel is not feasible or it would have happened.

I support the town’s efforts to support affordable housing because I recognize the difficulty that restaurants and most other businesses have finding help.

As a private residential developer, it is my opinion the town should use its involvement in the project to reevaluate the entire zoning and use of the Redmann property. This concept occurs in every development I have completed, regardless of public financing.

Specifically, there should be required public benefits contributed as part of the process, including expanded access, walking trails and amenities such as a simple park or picnic area. In addition, the entire project should be reviewed with possible rezoning to limit the number of housing units to fewer than the 200 currently allowed. The latter comment should be considered because of the obvious existing excessive traffic and congestion already occurring in Fish Creek.

I encourage the town board to disclose more, include the public in major developments, and use its financing and zoning powers to add benefits to the entire area, including benefits to those visiting and utilizing the businesses for which the TIF will help.

Paul Apfelbach

Fish Creek and Mequon, Wisconsin