HOA President Mercado addresses traffic concerns at Modine's facility with city officials

The Plan Commission meeting held on March 20, 2025, in Franklin, Wisconsin, focused on several key issues, primarily concerning traffic management and design standards related to a new development involving Modine Manufacturing Company.

The meeting commenced with a discussion led by Mr. Mercado, the president of the local homeowners association (HOA). He expressed concerns about increasing traffic on residential streets, particularly due to warehouse operations. Mercado highlighted incidents of speeding and accidents in the area, emphasizing the need for measures to mitigate these issues. He proposed working with Modine to encourage employees to adhere to speed limits and suggested the installation of signage to deter traffic from residential areas.

Commission members acknowledged Mercado's concerns, noting the importance of collaboration with the Franklin Police Department to enhance traffic enforcement. They discussed the potential for additional signage and the need for a comprehensive approach to traffic management, particularly as Modine's operations expand.

The conversation then shifted to the design standards for Modine's facility. Mr. Leon inquired about the visibility of outdoor storage and whether Modine was aware of the recommended design standards. Staff confirmed that they were working with Modine to ensure compliance and that further evaluations would be conducted to address visibility concerns.

Eric Ortega, representing Modine's architectural team, assured the commission that they were committed to addressing the HOA's concerns and would provide sight line diagrams to assess the impact of storage visibility from the property line.

Alderman Day reported that several residents had reached out with similar concerns about traffic, indicating that the HOA was effectively representing the community's interests. The commission emphasized the importance of ongoing communication between the HOA, residents, and Modine to ensure that all concerns are addressed as the project progresses.

The meeting concluded without any formal motions, but it set the stage for continued discussions on traffic management and design standards as the development moves forward. The commission plans to revisit these topics in future meetings, ensuring that community concerns remain a priority in the planning process.