LETTER: Port’s path to gentrification will exclude working families

To Ozaukee Press:

I was alone in voting against the terms of sale involving the townhome proposal for the current police and fire stations at the Common Council meeting on May 26, and I’d like to take a moment to explain why.

This is a highly desirable location that  under the current plan will ultimately result in 20 new units priced roughly at $750,000 each.

While adding around $85,000 to our yearly tax revenue does sound tantalizing, it seems to me, based on the two-to-one referendum results, that many in the city are growing tired of subsidies that only benefit luxury projects and massive corporations—in this case with essentially gifted land rather than TIFs.

I would have liked to see alternate uses presented for this property. And if it had to be luxury townhomes, I believe the sale should have immediately put money into the city’s coffers.

Strong cities need working and middle class families to fall in love with their community and never consider leaving. There are important but less tangible factors to look at beyond simply tax revenue.

I’m concerned that Port Washington is beginning to go down a path of gentrification that may lead young folks and even long-time residents to believe putting down roots in Saukville or Fredonia makes more sense. And the temporary demand for housing to support the large project on the north side will only exacerbate an already difficult situation.

Port Washington is transitioning into a full-fledged suburb and we have so much to offer. When we do choose to subsidize developments, we should prioritize projects that enable working and middle class families to move here, putting their kids in our schools and strengthening our community.

As we continue to ponder the city’s future, it is important to consider a diverse set of views on best practices for development.

Michael Beaster

Port Washington