Developer Has Big Plans for Former Bank Buildings

A special exception permit to be discussed at Tuesday night's Common Council meeting is the last approval needed by developer Gertjan van den Broek to continue with his renovation plans for the former the former M&I building, 122 N. Franklin St.

The permit is needed because van den Broek is planning to add a building on the property that would reach 48 feet in height at its tallest point, according to an Ozaukee Press article. City code only allows buildings to be 35 feet in height, though other buildings already exceed that — including the Boerner Mercantile development across the street.

In December, the city's Design Review Board approved plans that will add 18 condos and four retail storefront spaces as part of the renovations, according to an Ozaukee Press article. The design calls for the construction of a building between the former M&I building and Harry's Restaurant in the space where the bank's drive-thru is currently located.