LIVING HERE

The former Williams Bay Elementary School on 139 Congress Street is set to be razed within roughly two weeks to make way for a luxury residential development. Fox Development plans to transform the site into an exclusive housing community, a move that has divided local neighbors. The dormant school building, which has been vacant for approximately a decade. Residents are divided, with some concerned about the loss of green space and increased traffic, while others have debated the need for affordable housing versus luxury units. The site was previously considered for a health and wellness center, and there was a prior proposal to repurpose the existing structure into condos before the final decision to demolish was made. The current owner has received a permit from the state to conduct asbestos removal. The permits for demolition of the building have also been granted. The village board does not vote on these permits. The lot has not been rezoned, and no development agreement has been made with the village yet. Application materials are being processed by village staff.

The first applications will likely be before the Plan Commission in May. In the meantime, the village board is exploring a Tax Increment District for this lot to finance new water and sewer lines and road repair for the surrounding area. The public water pipes around the old school are very old and undersized.

Place of the Week

The Waterfront on Highway 50 in Delavan has a great menu and staff.