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ovember 7, 2024 – West Bend, WI – A packed council chambers in the City of West Bend Plan Commission meeting saw neighbors from the town of West Bend express concerns about a proposed development of 95 single-family homes on a 34-acre parcel northeast of 18th Avenue and CTH NN. The public hearing came as members of the Plan Commission voted to rezone the land from business park to RS4 single family residential.

    The privately owned land by Continental Properties is surrounded by the town of West Bend to the south and west, with neighbors expressing concerns about the development's density on 34 acres. Bryan Lindgren, representing developer Neumann Homes, stated that the average size of proposed homes is over 1,900 square feet, ranging from $425,000 to $475,000.

    Neighbors outlined their thoughts on how the development would affect traffic, safety on 18th Avenue, potentially impact the watershed and Silver Lake, alter the rural feel of the town, and were upset about a lack of notification. Some comments included concerns about excessive speed, narrow roads, and the need for sidewalks.

    Town residents also questioned the process, citing a lack of transparency and inadequate data. Supervisor Steve Lindley stated that the land was annexed 30 years ago without a boundary agreement with the City of West Bend, leading to potential issues with road safety and traffic congestion.

    Aron Rodman, who will have eight new neighbors surrounding his property, expressed concerns about the development's impact on the area's rural atmosphere. Barb Hafeman suggested using Fair Park or Decorah School for housing instead of the proposed site.

    After the public hearing closed, members of the Plan Commission weighed in on the proposal, discussing improvements to 18th Avenue, the size of homes, and traffic impact analysis. A vote was taken, with both rezoning issues passing. The item will next go before the common council.

    Developer Bryan Lindgren stated that there are differences between town and city zoning perspectives, citing the need for smaller lots in an incorporated municipality. He noted that the common council and plan commission would have a chance to review plans and make recommendations, which could potentially lead to abandoning the project if disagreed upon.