Development News for Portage, Wisconsin

Ordinance Update to Allow Boat House Construction Recommended

The council discussed and recommended approval for an ordinance update (Ordinance 26-00) to clarify shoreland wetland zoning and allow for the construction of boat houses. The current city code unintentionally prohibits boat house construction, though existing ones are permitted as legal non-conforming structures. The proposed ordinance updates establish clear zoning standards, allowing new boat houses on eligible waterfront residential properties with single-family homes. Key changes include setback requirements, defining boat houses as solely for watercraft storage (prohibiting habitation), and setting size/height limits. Access features like stairs and ramps are permitted within setbacks. Staff recommended approval, with a proposed amendment to allow boat houses to be constructed or under construction, not just already present.

Site Plan Approved for Containment Wall Expansion at Encapsus Facility

The council reviewed and recommended approval for a site plan for a containment wall expansion at Encapsus, located at 2500 West Wisconsin Street. TRC Environmental Corporation submitted the plans on behalf of Encapsus. The expansion is necessary to meet a minimum two-foot separation requirement between a new above-ground tank and the concrete dyke wall, as per Wisconsin administrative code. The plan involves replacing the existing containment wall and adding 20 square feet to the containment area, matching existing construction. The current zoning is M2 heavy industrial, and the expansion is consistent with this use and zoning. City staff recommended approval.

Council Explores Zoning Changes for Housing Affordability, Including Zero Lot Line Expansion and ADUs

The council discussed potential changes to zoning ordinances to promote housing affordability and density. Two main areas were explored: expanding zero lot line allowances to include fourplexes and sixplexes (currently only allowed for duplexes) and exploring the possibility of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). For zero lot lines, the discussion focused on whether to apply this to R3 (duplexes) or R4 zoning and establishing six units as a potential upper limit. For ADUs, the council considered various regulations such as setback requirements, minimum/maximum square footage, height restrictions, and whether they should be owner-occupied or allow short-term rentals. There was significant debate on ADUs, with some council members opposing them due to concerns about changing neighborhood character and increasing density in single-family areas, while others acknowledged potential benefits for housing affordability and intergenerational living. The possibility of state mandates for ADUs was also mentioned. Finally, the concept of 'cottage developments' (smaller homes clustered around a shared space) was introduced as another strategy to increase housing options.

River Crossing Multifamily Housing Development Site Plan Approved

The council reviewed and recommended approval for the site plan of the River Crossing Development, a multi-story, multi-family housing development proposed by Impact 7 on parcels 11012-621.20 and 11012-621. The development will include 52 apartment units in a single three-story building, offering a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. Notably, it will feature eight supportive housing units for residents with disabilities and six units for veterans. The parking plan includes 87 spaces (35 surface, 52 underground), with five designated as ADA accessible. The development required addressing comments from the city and submitting updated civil and architectural plans, including a temporary grading easement agreement with GMF properties as a contingency for approval. Originally, the site plan lacked sidewalks, which have since been added, and parking requirements were adjusted.