The purpose of the Economic Development Ordinance is to regulate economic development programs and incentives to protect the public health, safety, general welfare and tax base of the City.  Financial Assistance Programs work to maintain the economic vitality of the City of La Crosse, create good-paying jobs, and assist in the retention and expansion of local businesses.

The Economic Development Commission (EDC) was created via the Ordinance 2.23 to act as an advisory body to the Common Council. The Commission shall oversee the administration of the City’s Business Assistance Programs, and address issues common to the City’s economic vitality and viability.

The EDC will coordinate the preparation, implementation, and annual monitoring of Tax Incremental Districts, as well as negotiate the level of development incentive needed in accordance with the provisions of the ordinance. In accordance with Wis. Statutes, Common Council shall have final approval authority of all agreements.

Architectural & Engineering Analysis (A&E) Program

The A&E Program provides funding for building owners to assess a building’s structural and mechanical conditions and to highlight any building code issues. A Pro Forma is also required as part of the project. The applicant hires an architect of their choosing to conduct the analysis and the City pays 80% of the cost of the study. The applicant must have written approval to use the program and verification of funds available must be completed before proceeding with A&E.

A&E Program Guidelines and Application

Upper Floor Renovation Loan (UFRL) Program

The UFRL encourages investments to develop underutilized upper floors. Funds may be used for interior renovations, elevators and other related enhancements to make these floors economically viable. Maximum loan limit is $200,000. 

• UFRL Brochure 
• UFRL Guidelines 
• UFRL Application 

Elevate Downtown Facade Improvement Grant Program

The mission of this façade restoration program is to provide grants to downtown property owners for revitalizing the exteriors of their buildings. Properties must be located within the downtown district.

• Elevate Facade Grant Program 
• Elevate Facade Grant Application 

Northside Facade Improvement Grant Program

The mission of this façade restoration program is to provide incentives to property and business owners for revitalizing the exteriors of their buildings. This grant is subject to the availability of funding. 

• Northside Facade Improvement Grant Program Guidelines
• Northside Facade Improvement Grant Program Application

Tax Increment Financing Assistance

• City of La Crosse TIF Policy

 

Sprinkler System Grant Program

The mission of this program is to increase fire safety, encourage residential development, assist in redeveloping under-utilized upper floors in the City of La Crosse’s older buildings, and stimulate more mixed-use building in commercial buildings. This grant helps to provide financial support to carry out fire code enforcement and fire prevention measures for buildings within the city.

• Sprinkler System Grant Program Guidelines
• Sprinkler System Grant Application