Trustees Say Office Park Best Outcome for Proposed Walmart Site

Caledonia trustees say they believe an office park designation is the best possible use for the corner of 4-Mile and Green Bay Roads, but they also think Walmart is still eyeing a site in the village.

The Village Board voted unanimously Monday to hold a public hearing on a resident's idea to identify the southeast corner there as an office park. Such designation would allow professional offices and even some light manufacturing, but not retail, which — if approved by the board — kills the Walmart project at that site.

But some village officials believe Walmart hasn’t given up the idea of on building in Caledonia — it’s just a matter of where and when.

Trustee Tom Weatherston said he spoke to Walmart attorney Deb Tomczyk briefly after the meeting Monday.

"She said she's disappointed because they've put a year of work into that site," he said. "But I don't think this is the last we'll hear from them. Walmart wants to be in our neighborhood."

Walmart spokeswoman Lisa Nelson did not return calls seeking comment, however, Trustee Kevin Wanggaard said he thinks Walmart will look toward the I-94 corridor after water and sewer get extended to that area.

"I don't think a location at I-94 is going to happen now because there aren't enough rooftops," Wanggaard said. "In the future, though, could be a different story."

Trustee Jim Dobbs added that has no idea if Walmart is still considering Caledonia. However, he said, he said he would support any development as long as the location is compatible with the surrounding area.

"I welcome anyone as long as they fit," he said. "From road size to zoning to the neighborhood, I'm happy to talk to anyone about locating their business here as long as they fit."