Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Racine public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in parks rec
Annual Holiday Parade street closures
Downtown Racine Corporation got committee approval to close Ontario, Main and 6th Streets for the Holiday Parade on November 14, 2026.
5th Street Boat Launch pier replacement
Parks officials want a Wisconsin Coastal Management Program grant to replace the piers at the 5th Street Boat Launch. The city's share is roughly $99,000, already penciled into the 2027 capital plan.
Rename of Cesar Chavez Community Center
Alder Weidner has asked that the Cesar Chavez Community Center be renamed back to its original name, Douglas Park Community Center. The committee received and filed the request without a recommendation.
Shoop Park redevelopment and 50-year lease
The city is considering a deal with the Leipold Johnson Golf Group to stabilize the shoreline, build a clubhouse, and lease and operate Shoop Park as a dune-style golf course. Residents packed public comment worried about the 1917 deed requiring a public park, tree and bird habitat loss, and future golf fees. The council referred it to the Executive Committee, with a possible vote July 21.
Bryant Center parking lot completion
The city closed out the Bryant Center parking lot addition, approving a final change order and final payment to Wanasek Corporation totaling about $209,554.
Baseball field lighting upgrades
Bids were opened for new lighting at the Humble Park and Horlick baseball fields; the results were received and filed, moving both projects toward contract award.
Juneteenth and Memorial Day parades
The Juneteenth Parade organizer says the city is charging the parade $3,150 and displacing its Lake Avenue staging area for Harbor Fest, while the Memorial Day and 4th of July parades have gone fee-free for 32 years under the same co-sponsored event ordinance.