Algoma Common Council moves on 1515 Sunset Ave.

ALGOMA – In a swift but significant special session Tuesday evening, the Common Council moved forward with plans involving the property at 1515 Sunset Ave., authorizing the mayor to enter into an agreement that could shape the city’s development in the months ahead.

The meeting, held at City Hall’s Common Council Chambers, was called to order by Mayor Steve Lautenbach at 5:39 p.m.

All eight council members were present, including Alderpersonperson Wayne Schmidt, who joined remotely via Zoom.

Also in attendance were Treasurer Jamie Jackson and City Administrator Matt Murphy.

After approving the evening’s agenda, the Council immediately moved into closed session under Wisconsin Statute 19.85(1)(e), which allows for private deliberation when public business requires discretion for competitive or bargaining reasons.

The closed session centered around 1515 Sunset Ave., a site that has been at the heart of recent negotiations.

The city has allocated $3 million to relocate the Fire and Rescue Department to a new building at 1515 Sunset Ave. At an Algoma Common Council meeting in late February, City Administrator Murphy said construction on the site could begin by spring if financial details are finalized.

While details of the discussion remained confidential, the Council reconvened in open session just four minutes later and moved swiftly to take action.

Alderpersonperson Amy Johnson introduced a motion to authorize Mayor Lautenbach to enter into an AIA Document A133 Agreement with Bayland, a motion seconded by Alderperson Midge Swedberg.

A roll call vote was taken, with all members voting in favor.

The decision signals a step forward in negotiations or development at the Sunset Avenue property.

While specifics of the agreement were not discussed publicly, the AIA A133 document is typically used for construction manager-at-risk projects, suggesting potential plans for building or redevelopment at the site.

The meeting concluded shortly after at 5:44 p.m., just five minutes after returning to open session— a brief but impactful gathering for the Council and city leadership.

The next regular meeting of the Common Council is scheduled for Monday, May 5, 2025, at 5 p.m. at City Hall.