Muskego Council Divided Over Pioneer Drive Costs

The s split in opinion and philosophy was never more apparent than Tuesday night, as repeated 4-3 votes placed the same aldermen on opposite sides.

In particular, spending for 2012 construction of Pioneer Drive was often pulled out of resolutions by Alderman Kert Harenda, who along with Aldermen Dan Soltysiak and Neil Borgman felt the expenditure was excessive.

Earlier discussions during Committee of the Whole Budget meetings brought forth the same objections that were raised Tuesday night, including Soltysiak reiterating his concern that "it couldn't even be supported as a TIF District, and I just don't see us realizing a good return on our investment."

The $2.5 million estimated to tear up the road, redo sidewalks, and extend water lines, was in part requested by home owners, who were excited to see the project was moved up to 2012's budget, according to Alderman Keith Werner.

Resolutions for $14.5 million in borrowing, the approval of the capital budget and water utility budgets were all subjects for amendment to exclude Pioneer Drive dollars based on the aldermen's belief that basic resurfacing and street scaping would be enough.

Soltysiak also reminded the council that a marketing study is forthcoming that could help determine what if any business they could expect to develop along Pioneer. He felt spending could wait for that information to become available.

Earlier public comment echoed concerns over putting money into the project, with resident Mike Brandt telling the council, "we're putting more than $2 million into a road for six businesses.  I heard a lot about vision in the previous election, but it seems like vision equals more debt."

Relatively little rebuttal came from other members of the council, who voted against any amendments that would limit or exclude Pioneer Drive funding. At one point, the roll call voting required as the electronic system was not working was being mimicked by those in attendance.  

Ultimately 4-3 votes in favor of the following resolutions will fund the major road projects including Pioneer Drive.

• The issuance and sale of $14.5 million in general obligation promissory notes
• Approval of 2012 general fund operating budget and tax levy
• Approval of 2012 water utility budget and rates
• Approval of agreement for RA Smith National for design services for reconstruction of Pioneer Drive