City could end some home improvement fees

La Crosse officials in March will consider rescinding fees added in 2012 for residential roofing, siding and window replacement in the city.

Mayor Tim Kabat introduced the measure at Thursdays Common Council meeting, saying eliminating those permit requirements would free up city inspectors to focus on priorities such as code enforcement.

The council approved an extensive list of new fees during the 2012 budget process as a way to generate funds after significant cuts in state revenue.

The permit for roofing, siding or window replacement costs $31; a single permit and fee can cover all three types of work if done within 30 months.

But Kabat said Thursday he thinks the fees should have a purpose beyond simply raising revenue.

Ive not been shown a case that these permits are necessary to protect the publics health, safety and welfare, the mayor said.

The 2014 budget estimated the three fees would bring in about $13,000, Kabat said.

Residents also told him during his mayoral campaign the fees send out the wrong message if the city wants to encourage raising property values by creating a disincentive to people making improvements, the mayor said.

The measure now goes on to the March council cycle.

In other business, the council:

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City could end some home improvement fees