Residents weigh in on proposed multi-million-dollar Big Bend athletic facility
BIG BEND, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A proposed multi-million-dollar sports complex is causing major controversy among residents in Big Bend.
It was a packed house at Big Bend’s Village Hall, where the first public hearing took place on the proposed athletic complex.
More than one hundred people showed up Thursday night, Jan. 29, and each person was given two minutes to share their thoughts and concerns.
Those for and against the proposed athletic facility spoke causing some tension, but the majority said they are against the massive project.
The proposed athletic facility would include six baseball turf fields, seven full sized soccer fields, four lacrosse fields, an indoor turf facility, a hotel and more.
The facility would be located right on the far north side of the village of Big Bend.
Those in favor of the massive project say it could be great resource for the community and an opportunity for economic growth and tourism.
“When a project comes along that could stabilize or even reduce the tax burden it’s opposed because people have lived here a long time or moved here expecting nothing to change and those aren’t planning arguments,” said a resident during public comment. “The is property sits on a major corridor connecting the freeway to one of the largest metro areas in the state and the idea that this will remain farmland forever is unrealistic.”
Those against shared environmental, traffic and quality of life concerns. Many say they are worried it will decrease the values of their property and ruin the village’s rural culture.
“I get it you want your money take it, but you cannot do this to this community,” said a longtime resident during public comment.
Many people also shared their concerns over the parking lot that would be built to accommodate the facility which could have more than 1,500 spots.
The project is estimated to cost between 175 to 225 million dollars.
The Big Bend Planning Commission voted to table the discussion and said they didn’t have enough information at this time to make a vote. The next meeting will take place on February 19, at 7 p.m.