Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Beloit public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues in business jobs
Lake Ridge Bank branch at 200 State Street
Lake Ridge Bank wants to lease part of a downtown building for an office and bank branch. Because banks are a separate use category from offices, it needs a new conditional use permit even though the building already has one for office use.
July 2026 board and commission vacancies
Two Landmarks Commission seats are open, including one reserved for a west-side resident. Incumbent Nicolette Meister has applied again. The commission guides historic preservation decisions in Beloit.
Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit liquor license application
The council approved the liquor license for Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit at 777 Willowbrook Road, clearing the way for the casino's planned October 23 opening. It's a notable economic development step for the city.
Family Self-Sufficiency program funding
The Housing Authority planned to apply for a $75,000 federal grant to keep its Family Self-Sufficiency coordinator, who helps assisted families increase income and reduce reliance on assistance. Without the grant, the existing position may not be funded.
Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit Liquor License
The Ho-Chunk Nation wants beer and liquor licenses for its new Beloit casino. The committee reviews the application and recommends to the City Council, which makes the final decision on October 5.
New liquor license for La Jaiba Loca restaurant
A popular Prairie Ave. restaurant wants to add liquor service on top of its existing beer and wine licenses. The committee reviews the application and recommends to the council, which votes August 17.
Opportunity Zones reauthorization for Census Tracts 15 and 17
The council reauthorized two downtown-adjacent census tracts as federal Opportunity Zones for another 10 years, keeping federal tax incentives available to attract private investment to underused properties.
New alcohol licenses for four Beloit establishments
A new business, G5 Barrel House, is opening at 1895 Gateway Blvd. and the city marked the occasion with a ribbon cutting. It's a ceremonial welcome — no decisions were made, but a new business joining the Gateway corridor is good news for the local economy.
G5 Barrel House opening
A new business, G5 Barrel House, is opening at 1895 Gateway Blvd. and the city marked the occasion with a ribbon cutting. It's a ceremonial welcome — no decisions were made, but a new business joining the Gateway corridor is good news for the local economy.
Bastani Ice Cream opening celebration
A new ice cream shop, Bastani Ice Cream, opened at 400 Willowbrook Road, and the city marked it with a ribbon cutting. It's a small-business win for the community — new local business, new spot for families. No decisions were made; the council just showed up to celebrate.
New liquor license at ABC Stadium (Proof of the Pudding)
A new bar/venue operator is taking over the liquor license at 217 Shirland Ave in the ABC Stadium building, with the previous holder relinquishing it. The committee recommended approval unanimously; the Council votes May 18.