and those commuting to nearby manufacturing hubs. “We have infill development incentives, which are for people that maybe have a double lot and there is space for a second home there that they may be interested in building, we can offer incentives that way. Then there’s also the general new building incentives as well,” he explains. The housing study also identified that Mauston’s rental capacity was at zero, meaning available properties were being snapped up immediately. Along with the apartment complexes that have already been completed, the mayor says additional developments are being explored through potential rezoning initiatives. BUSINESS ATTRACTION AND DEVELOPMENT A prime position along the I-90/94 corridor and proximity to key attractions has helped Mauston attract both tourism and new businesses. One of the city’s major initiatives is the TID program, with several districts spread throughout the community. As for existing enterprises, Haugh conveys, “We don’t have any commercial downtown, it’s all small business related. Most of our commercial business is in TID 5, out by the interstate, which is mostly retail, gas stations, fast food restaurants and hotels.” The city is also home to an industrial park, with several factories, and Sand Ridge Secure Treatment Center, a mental health facility and a major economic driver in the region. Mayor Teske reports, “Our industrial park has space that is still available, and we actively reach out to businesses and make sure our manufacturers understand that we can certainly support more out there.” A HAVEN FOR RESIDENTS AND VISITORS On the subject of tourism, Mayor Teske remarks,“We are continuing to build on the successes we have, and also looking at other opportunities as they come available.” This growing sector is built on Mauston’s picturesque scenery, rich recreational opportunities, and unique local businesses, attracting visitors from across the region. A prime example is Gravity Box Brewery, located in the downtown, and drawing craft beer enthusiasts from near and far. Photo Credit: Todd M Galbrecht of TMG Photography 122 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
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