La Crosse Council President Discusses Kmart Lot, $50M Pool Proposal, and City Admin Vacancy

Tamra Dickinson breaks down key issues facing the La Crosse City Council, including budget shifts, historic designation debates, and the search for a new city administrator.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 10:49pm

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of an empty city council chamber, with warm sunlight streaming in through the windows and deep shadows casting an air of contemplation over the space.The La Crosse City Council chamber stands empty, a symbol of the weighty decisions facing local leaders on development, budgets, and the search for a new city administrator.La Crosse Today

In a wide-ranging interview, La Crosse City Council President Tamra Dickinson discussed several major issues facing the city, including the redevelopment of the former Kmart lot, a proposed $30-$50 million indoor pool facility, budget reallocations, and the ongoing search for a new city administrator.

Why it matters

As the leader of the city council, Dickinson's insights provide important context on the political and financial challenges La Crosse is navigating, from managing development projects to addressing aging infrastructure needs and filling key leadership roles.

The details

Dickinson explained that the Kmart lot redevelopment plan has hit a 30-day delay after the council voted to split the property into four separate parcels. She also discussed the debate over granting historic designation to Emerson Elementary School, which the school district opposes due to concerns over a future sale. On the $50 million pool proposal, Dickinson broke down the ongoing conversations between the city and school district on funding and location. Regarding the city's budget, Dickinson addressed the 'controversial' process of shuffling operating funds between departments to cover deficits, as well as the use of $450,000 in tax increment district money for Civic Center Park improvements. These budget issues, she said, highlight the need to fill the vacant city administrator role, though Dickinson noted the discussions around that position are not happening publicly.

  • The La Crosse City Council voted to split the former Kmart lot into four parcels, delaying the redevelopment project by 30 days.
  • The school district is pushing back against granting historic designation to Emerson Elementary, which could complicate a future sale.
  • Discussions around a proposed $30-$50 million indoor pool facility are ongoing between the city and school district.

The players

Tamra Dickinson

The president of the La Crosse City Council, providing insights on key issues facing the city.

La Crosse City Council

The governing body of La Crosse, Wisconsin, responsible for making decisions on development, budgets, and other municipal matters.

La Crosse School District

The public school system in La Crosse, which is involved in discussions around an indoor pool facility and the historic designation of Emerson Elementary School.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.