Originally posted in the Facebook group In the Grove 2.0 on August 6, 2025
The Village of Cottage Grove just missed a major opportunity for growth, economic benefit, and family recreation.
I am deeply disappointed that the Village Board voted against a $20+ million sports facility that could have signaled our community is open for business, committed to controlling property tax levels, and eager to expand opportunities for families.
This vote wasn’t just the rejection of one project, it was a message to developers, entrepreneurs, and young families that Cottage Grove is not interested in bold, forward-thinking investment. While neighboring communities are actively pursuing projects that attract residents and increase local spending, too many of our leaders seem content to stand still.
The economic benefits of a facility like this are clear: increased local spending from tournaments and visitors, new revenue for restaurants and shops, and more opportunities for youth to play close to home. Growing the tax base through developments like this is the most effective way to ease the burden on homeowners and avoid future tax increases. This project alone was projected to generate $450,000 to $500,000 annually in tax revenue, at a time when state aid is limited and municipal costs continue to rise.
Unfortunately, the process behind this decision was just as troubling as the outcome. During the July 21st meeting, the board seemed to misunderstand or overlook key aspects of the village’s development approval process. The agenda items, land annexation and a conditional use permit, aligned with the village’s comprehensive plan and had unanimous support from the Plan Commission. Most of the board’s discussion focused instead on issues that are addressed in the next step of the process, site plan approval, where conditions can be imposed related to traffic, infrastructure, and public safety.
What’s more concerning is that a follow-up discussion was blocked at the next board meeting, preventing staff from presenting research and responding to the very concerns that were raised. This suggests the opposition was not grounded in due diligence, but a predetermined stance against the project. That kind of anti-growth posture discourages future partnerships and investment.
This moment demands more than frustration, it calls for a renewed commitment to leadership that plans ahead. We deserve leadership that welcomes thoughtful growth and understands the long term stakes of their decisions. I urge the Village Board to re-engage in a full and fair discussion about this project, one that allows staff and experts to present information, address concerns, and explore solutions. Only through open, informed dialogue can we make decisions that truly reflect the best interests of Cottage Grove, both now and for generations to come.
JP for Cottage Grove 