The demolition of the old Kmart might have a due date, and La Crosse leadership is about to restart the city administrator conversation again.

Council president Tamra Dickinson stopped in studio, ahead of Thursday’s monthly meeting, where the council will vote on giving final approval to a development agreement over the old Kmart lot, while also looking at a charter ordinance that isn’t city administrator — but could be related.

Following two failed charter votes to create a traditional administrator post, city leaders are pivoting to a special Sept. 22 meeting on broader municipal structures to fix city hall inefficiencies. 

Dickinson also breaks down how the city’s initial $8 million budget shortfall for next year is more of a department wishlist — but real cuts are still hitting, like over $400,000 next year for the library. Plus, Dickinson gives updates on King and Gillette street construction, and city-owned property sales including the old Northside Library and former Girl Scout headquarters.

Episode Highlights:

• Kmart Demo Timeline: Dickinson breaks down the development agreement going before council to set a timeline for site demolition and spring 2027 construction. 
• Beyond City Admin: How an upcoming municipal structure meeting finally opens the floor to discuss city operations after repeated charter votes failed to pass.
• Budget Reality Check: Dickinson plays down an initial $8 million shortfall as a department "wishlist," even as departments like the library are meeting on making staff and giant budget cuts.
• King Street Pitfall: How an unrecorded, water-filled underground cistern near the Pump House derailed downtown paving plans.
• Gillette Street Gridlock: Why bridge repairs over the railroad tracks will stretch Northside construction delays right up into November.
• Girl Scout Exit: The city moves to dissolve a 99-year lease for $1 to clear the way for a surplus property sale.