Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Janesville public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in general with high priority
New City Manager selection
The council is actively working on hiring a new city manager — the city's top administrator who oversees day-to-day operations and department heads. The details of the candidate search are being handled in closed session, so residents won't see who's being considered until the council is ready to act publicly.
Downtown DORA alcohol district
The council created a downtown Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area letting people carry drinks in marked areas — with hours trimmed to noon–10 p.m. after concerns about morning drinking near the farmers market and youth spaces. It sunsets in June 2027 so the council can review data before renewing.
City Manager Salary
Recruitment for the next city manager ramps up fast: posting June 23, interviews in early August, appointment August 24, with a $240,000-$270,500 base salary range based on Wisconsin peer cities.
Data center opposition at the GM site
A resident urged the council to reject a data center at the former GM site, calling it an 'elephant in the room' and criticizing what he sees as a rubber-stamp city government.
City Manager Resignation
With Kevin Lahner departing at the end of May, the council heard the recruitment plan: public input sessions May 28 and June 4 plus a resident survey, run by the search firm Innovative Public Advisors.
Public Hearing on Backyard Duck Ordinance
Janesville is taking public comment on a proposed backyard duck ordinance that would decide whether residents can keep ducks at home. Supporters see fresh eggs and local food; opponents worry about noise, smell, and neighbor disputes. The hearing is your chance to speak up—or quack up—before officials decide.
Cruising Ordinance Update
Janesville may tighten its anti-cruising ordinance to target repeat drivers who keep looping the Circuit. If downtown cruising traffic and noise have been bugging you, this update could matter. The change would likely mean more enforcement against repeat offenders rather than a total ban on driving downtown.
Property Acquisition
Janesville is about to own the old GM plant site by early 2025, setting up what could be the city’s biggest redevelopment ever. That means big potential for new jobs and tax base—but also public responsibility for whatever cleanup and costs come with the property.