The Northside Neighborhood Center is taking shape
In August, the City of La Crosse selected our proposal to purchase and restore the former North Community Library at 1552 Kane Street. Since then, a volunteer board of neighbors, business owners and Logan alumni has been meeting every week to turn that decision into a building with its doors open.
Where things stand
The organization is in place. The Northside Neighborhood Center, Inc. was incorporated in Wisconsin this summer, has its own bank account, and has filed its application for 501(c)(3) status with the IRS. We expect a determination after the first of the year.
The development agreement is in the works. We're working through the details with the City. Once it's final, it goes to the Common Council for approval, and the purchase closes after that.
Zoning is moving through the City's public process. The building sits in a single-family zoning district, so we've asked for a change that allows a community use. That request goes through a public hearing before the City Plan Commission and then to the Council.
What's taking shape inside
The plan for the building keeps getting more specific. A few of the ideas the board is working on now:
A Northside history area that tells the stories of the families and businesses who built this side of town, in their own photos, documents and words.
A community wellness room for health education and classes close to home, for neighbors who can't easily get across town.
A before-and-after record. We're photographing the building as it is today so you can watch the transformation.
You can see the room-by-room plan on The Plan page.
How you can help right now
Until the IRS determination arrives, we aren't accepting gifts. We're asking for pledges instead, so we know what the campaign can count on. You can make a pledge here.
Not everyone gives money, and that help matters just as much:
Share your Northside history. Old photos, documents and stories will help fill the history area.
Lend your trade. If you work in construction or the trades and could donate time or materials, we'd like to hear from you.
Volunteer, or just stay in touch. Let us know through the Pledge page, or join the email list on the home page.
We'll post here when each milestone lands: the Council vote on the development agreement, closing, the start of construction, and opening day.