Walmart on Jan. 30 Plan Commission Agenda; Water Contract Approved

Walmart's application for a land use amendment will be discussed at the Jan. 30 Plan Commission meeting, Village Attorney Elaine Ekes confirmed Monday.

Before the Village Board meeting got into full swing, Ekes told trustees and gathered residents that the retail giant had submitted an application to amend the village's land use plan so it jives with what the county has on file. 

"Per the procedure in the comp plan, the matter will go to the Plan Commission for an initial review," she said. "I would remind all of you that the Plan Commission is a recommend-only board and ultimately, the decision is up to the Village Board."

Ekes confirmed the Plan Commission is not a public hearing, but it is a public meeting residents can attend.

"Will the public hearing combine the Walmart's November rezone request with this new application?" Katie Tiderman asked.

There are no plans to combine those hearings, but that could change depending on what happens at the Plan Commission meeting, Ekes answered.

The Plan Commission meets at 6 p.m. Jan. 30 at the East Side Community Center, 6156 Douglas Avenue.

In other news from the Village Board meeting:

Trustees approved the new, 40-year wholesale water agreement with the City of Racine. Putting their signatures on the dotted lines means trustees have given the village growth opportunities, primarily along Highway K and 7-Mile Road. 

"This goes a long way for Caledonia to having a future," said Trustee and Assemblyman Tom Weatherston.

A concept plan was approved for A&W to move east to the corner of Northwestern Avenue and the East Frontage Road. Frank and Sharon Welch, owners of the restaurant, are making plans to move because of the I-94 expansion and WisDOT having to construct new on- and off-ramps.

Highway Department workers are getting a new truck. Trustees also unanimously approved a new Mack Truck that is being purchased for less than was budgeted thanks to a pretty good trade-in on the old truck. Instead of costing $172,000, the new truck comes in at $155,250.

Racine County Economic Development Corporation will continue helping Caledonia with growth and development. Trustees gave their stamp of approval to renewing the contract for another year.