04-13-26 Historic Preservation Commission Packet
City of Menomonie · Dunn County · meeting of Apr 13, 2026 · Agenda packets
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HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION AGENDA
Menomonie City Hall
800 Wilson Avenue
Garden Level, Room 58
5:00pm
Monday – April 13, 2026
Page 1 of 1
1. Roll Call
2. Approval of Minutes for March 9, 2026
3. Public Comments (agenda items only).
4. New Business
a) Sign Color Palettes – discussion and possible action.
b) Certificate of Appropriateness application from Foos Wine, LLC
modifications to the north face of 332 Main Street East – discussion and
possible approval.
5. Confirm Next Meeting Date – May 11, 2026 @ 5:00 pm
6. Adjourn
“PUBLIC ACCESS”
NOTE: Upon reasonable notice, efforts will be made to accommodate the needs of
individuals with disabilities. For additional information or to request the service,
contact the City Clerk or the City Administrator at 715-232-2221.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
Chairperson Ryland Erdman called the Historic Preservation Commission to order on March 9,
2026 at 5:04 pm in City Hall in Garden Level Room 58.
Members present were Ryland Erdman, Melissa Kneeland, John Sobota, Carl Rudenborg, Sylvia
Gengenbach, and Tim Dotseth. Joshua Kohnke was absent. Also, present were David Schofield,
Dave Kowieski, Christopher Johnson, Rebecca Schoenborn, Wade Lambrigtsen.
Approval of Minutes: Motion to approve the minutes of the February 9, 2026 meeting by
Keeland; Dotseth 2nd; motion carried unanimously on a voice vote.
Public Comments: none.
New Business:
a) Sign Color Palette.
Schofield presented the proposed color palettes received by Lambrigtsen. Similar to the colors
for buildings expressing concern over the enforceability of signs and their colors without an
approved palette on file at City Hall. Presented are the following palettes from Nova Color,
Ronan, and 1 Shot, which are currently in use in the district on signs. Schofield expressed
concern over allowing Ronan Glow Shock Pink and other fluorescent colors.
Question was raised by Erdman over future persons who many paint signs and if there would
be a problem with these colors as the approved palette. Lambrigtsen indicated that it shouldn’t
be a problem, as these colors are the standard for the sign painting industry.
Discussion was had over a blanket exclusion of colors with the name fluorescent in the title.
Schofield indicated, that excluding certain colors can be tricky as some colors that don’t have
fluorescent in the name may be able to be used as a substitute, for example Ronan Glow Red
and Ronan Poster Red. Kneeland commented that some time should be taken with Lambrigtsen
to be able to go through line by line and remove colors that may be problematic. Lambrigtsen
commented that cadmium colors are ones he is concerned about as those reds turn pink
quickly in sunlight.
Erdman suggested that the motion should read, as “suggested colors” vs “approved colors”.
Kneeland expanded that the use of certain colors which are pre-approved puts the commission
in a sticky spot for approving signs which incorporate pre-approved colors, but which may be
aesthetically displeasing. Schofield indicated, that the use of pre-approved colors takes the
comments of bias out of discussion when a COA is rejected due to color choice.
Erdman commented that if the colors are too restrictive then it may cause businesses to have
to change from using their existing branding.
Gengenbach commented that not having pre-approved may invite people to skip the approval
step with this body.
Schofield suggested that the term “approved” should be used and noted that all signs will need
to be brought before this body for approval in the district, but that this item can be brought
back at the next meeting, after further review in conjunction with Lambrigtsen.
Motion to approve the recommended colors for use in signs/murals in the downtown historic
district Nova Color, Ronan, and 1 Shot color palates, excluding the Cadmium colors, 1 Shot
Fluorescent, and the Ronan Glow/Fluorescent Palettes made by Dotseth, and then withdrawn.
Schofield will work with Lambrigsten to prepare a draft list of excluded colors and bring this
matter back to the next meeting. No action taken.
b) Certificate of Appropriateness for one (1) mural on the exterior west wall of TWD
Enterprise, LLC (616 3rd Street East – Lang Building).
The project was summarized as presented in the packet by City Staff, it is exempt from the
City’s Sign Ordinance due to the brand no longer being in operation, and as such is
recommended for approval. The side of the west wall will be painted Black (HC-190) from the
approved building palette, and the Sanna products mural will be painted on the black brick.
Kneeland and Lambrigtsen commented there may be some small tweaks to the design before
painting, adding “Menomonie the Birthplace of Hot Cocca Mix” as well as adding a date, moving
the design up a bit on the wall while keeping the dimensions the same. Schofield indicated
small changes like that won’t be a problem with the approval.
Motion was made by Dotseth to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness for one (1) mural
on the exterior west wall of TWD Enterprise, LLC (616 3rd Street East – Lang Building) as
presented, seconded by Gengenbach. Motion was approved by voice vote, with Kneeland
abstaining.
c) Certificate of Appropriateness for one (1) mural on the exterior west wall of Lake Line
Properties, LLC (400 Main Street East).
The project was summarized as presented in the packet by City Staff, it is exempt from the
City’s Sign Ordinance as the company is no longer in operation, and as such is recommended for
approval. This mural will be on aluminum panels attached to the wall with a treated lumber
frame.
Dotseth commented appreciation for the inclusion of “The Knapp, Stout, Co. Company”, which
was the case at the time to mark the inclusion of the other silent partners.
Lambrigtsen commented that the design may be raised from the design shown to better allow
for photograph opportunities as the cross-cut saw will be painted in a manner that two people
can pose with it.
Dotseth suggested the inclusion of language stating that it was the largest lumber company in
the world at time of operation. Kneeland and Schoenborn commented that there will be QR
codes by the murals which will link to the history of the mural and its contents, to be hosted by
the Dunn County Historical Society.
Motion was made by Dotseth to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness for one (1) mural
on the exterior west wall of Lake Line Properties, LLC (400 Main Street East) as presented,
seconded by Rudenborg. Motion was approved by voice vote, with Kneeland abstaining.
d) Certificate of Appropriateness for a mural on the exterior east wall of Holden Smith
Properties, LLC (438 Main Street East).
The project was summarized as presented in the packet by City Staff, it is exempt from the
City’s Sign Ordinance, as it is a piece of art not an advertisement for a business and that the
Kraft State Bank is no longer in operation, and as such is recommended for approval. The mural
will be painted on the brick wall.
Question was raised by Schofield on the point of access as the property in front of this mural is
private property, and as such written permission should be obtained from BMO Bank to use
their lot, since unlike the other murals it is not being placed on a wall next to the public right of
way. Schoenborn commented that there have been conversations with BMO Bank about using
the lot, and it has been approved by them. Lambrigtsen expanded there will also be continuing
conversations due to the height of the mural since regular scaffolding will not reach high
enough, and a scissor lift will need to be rented to be able to reach the top.
Motion was made by Erdman to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness for one (1) mural
on the exterior west wall of Holden Smith Properties, LLC (438 Main Street East) as presented,
seconded by Dotseth. Motion was approved by voice vote, with Kneeland abstaining.
Supplemental Discussion:
Rudenborg’s Architects license is expiring in July and will need to be renewed. This comes with
some continuing education classes, which he is willing to do to maintain status as the registered
architect for the Historic Preservation Commission. Schofield commented that some
professions have a non-practicing option which keeps the license, but cannot stamp plans.
Schofield commented on upcoming certificates. For two new business signs at different
properties and possible brickwork improvement from Holden Smith Properties at their property
at 438 Main St E.
Kneeland suggested that this commission should send an encouraging letter to downtown
businesses/property owners for improvements and assistance, since the Murals in Menomonie
is coming this summer to town to celebrate our historic city, and as such we should strive to
look our best. Item to possibly discuss at the next meeting.
The next regular scheduled Historic Preservation Commission meeting will be held on Monday
April 13, 2026 at 5:00pm at City Hall, Room 58.
Kneeland made a motion to adjourn; Gengenbach 2nd; motion carried unanimously on a voice
vote; meeting adjourned, at 5:41 pm.
Chris Johnson, Deputy City
Clerk
MEMORANDUM
David Schofield, Director of Public Works
dschofield@menomonie-wi.gov
715-232-2221 Ext.1020
1
TO: Chairperson Erdman and Historic Preservation Commission
FROM: David Schofield, Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: Sign Color Palettes
DATE: April 13, 2029 Historical Preservation Commission Meeting
At the March 9 meeting, the Commission discussed color palette approvals for signs affixed to
buildings within the Historic District. The discussion centered upon whether to exclude certain,
mostly fluorescent, colors. The commission asked City Staff to work with Wade Lambrigtsen to
prepare a list of excluded colors. In the meantime, Chris Johnson obtained an original hard copy
of Ronan’s color palette.
City Staff have prepared proposed Resolution HP2026-01 for the Commission’s consideration.
The Commission may do any of the following:
1. Approve Resolution HP2026-01, as presented (simple majority).
2. Approve Resolution HP2026-01 with the following changes: __________, __________,
and __________ (simple majority).
3. Take no action. Note: If no action is taken, no color palettes would be pre-approved for
signs affixed to buildings within the Historic District and every color would need to be
reviewed on a case by case basis.
Attachments:
• Proposed Resolution HP2026-01
• Nova Color color palette (scanned)
• Ronan Specialty Paints color palette (scanned)
• One Shot & Chromatic color palette (scanned)
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO. HP2026-01
SIGN COLOR PALETTES
WHEREAS, The City of Menomonie Historic Preservation Commission is responsible for
reviewing proposed improvements to buildings within the Historic District; and,
WHEREAS, Signs affixed to buildings within the Historic District require a Certificate of
Appropriateness be obtained from the Historic Preservation Commission; and,
WHEREAS, The Historic Preservation Commission desires to provide guidance as to
which colors will be favorably considered on signs affixed to buildings in the Historic District ;
and,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Historic Preservation Commission
does hereby approve the following color palettes for signs in the Historic District:
1. Nova Color (dated August 2012), except the following:
a. Hot Pink (136)
b. Fluorescent Magenta (190)
c. Fluorescent Pink (191)
d. Fluorescent Red (193)
e. Fluorescent Orange (195)
f. Fluorescent Yellow (197)
g. Fluorescent Green (198)
h. Fluorescent Blue (199)
2. Ronan Specialty Paints (dated October 2013), except the following:
a. Fluorescent Green (RG05)
b. Fluorescent Lime Yellow (RG06)
c. Fluorescent Red (RG07)
d. Fluorescent Shock Pink (RG08)
e. Fluorescent Vivid Orange (RG10)
3. One Shot & Chromatic (dated April 2002), except the following:
a. Fluorescent Chartreuse (200-F)
b. Fluorescent Yellow Orange (201-F)
c. Fluorescent Red Orange (203-F)
d. Fluorescent Orange (202-F)
e. Fluorescent Red (204-F)
f. Fluorescent Pink (206-F)
g. Fluorescent Blue (208-F)
h. Fluorescent Green (209-F)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that where a business or entity can demonstrate a strong
previously established connection to certain colors , the Historic Preservation Commission will
consider other colors in addition to those listed above.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Clerk’s Office shall retain in its possession
an original copy of each approved color palette in its original hard copy form from the
manufacturer.
Adopted by the Historic Preservation Commission of the City of Menomonie this ______ day of
____________ 2026.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MENOMONIE
By: __________________________________
Ryland Erdman, Chairperson
Attest: __________________________________
Chris Johnson, Deputy Clerk
MEMORANDUM
David Schofield, Director of Public Works
dschofield@menomonie-wi.gov
715-232-2221 Ext.1020
1
TO: Chairperson Erdman and Historic Preservation Commission
FROM: David Schofield, Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: Certificate of Appropriateness for Foos Wine, LLC (332 Main Street East).
DATE: April 13, 2029 Historical Preservation Commission Meeting
Foos Wine, LLC has submitted a Certificate of Appropriateness for several proposed
modifications to the north face of 332 Main Street East. This is the former site of Ember + Eve
Co. and directly adjacent to Burrito California (334 Main Street East). The existing north wall of
the building can be seen below:
Courtesy: Google (maps.google.com)
Foos Wine, LLC has proposed, with permission of the building owner, to make the following
modifications to the north face of 332 Main Street East:
1. Paint a portion of the north face of the building (including the recessed entryway, a
column to the left of the storefront and the board & batten area above the entryway and
storefront). Paint color is stated to be Benjamin Moore Chippendale Rosetone HC-58
MEMORANDUM
David Schofield, Director of Public Works
dschofield@menomonie-wi.gov
715-232-2221 Ext.1020
2
(which is on the approved color palette). City Staff note that the proposed painting
extends past the building addition line.
2. Install a fabric awning over the entryway and storefront. Awning fabric color is stated to
be Sunbrella Exceed FR Black 8751-0060 (black is on the approved color palette). City
Staff note that it appears that the awning extends past the building addition line.
3. Install “Foos”, “we have wine”, “332 Main”, and “so can you too” signs on the awning.
Sign color is stated to be “Beige 49”. City Staff note that the origin of this color is
unclear, and that this color does not match the proposed window sign color nor the
proposed wall color.
4. Install a “Foos Wine Club” sign in the window. Sign color is stated to be “Dark Purple”.
City Staff note that the origin of this color is unclear, and that this color does not match
the proposed awning signs window sign color nor the proposed wall color.
City Staff have reviewed the proposed and found them to be in accordance with City Code.
However, it is up to the Historic Preservation Commission to determine if the extension(s) past
the building addition line and/or the color variations are appropriate.
The Commission may do any of the following:
1. Approve the Certificate of Appropriateness application from Foos Wine, LLC for 332
Main Street East, as presented (simple majority).
2. Approve the Certificate of Appropriateness application from Foos Wine, LLC for 332
Main Street East with the following changes: __________, __________, and
__________ (simple majority).
3. Deny the Certificate of Appropriateness application from Foos Wine, LLC at 332 Main
Street East, as presented, based upon the following __________, __________, and
__________ (simple majority). If denied, the applicant would need to resubmit and the
reasons listed would assist them to address the Commission’s concerns.
Attachments:
• Staff Recommendation
• Sign Permit Application
• Commercial Building Permit Application
• Certificate of Appropriateness Application
Source: City of Menomonie website. First collected Oct 19, 2026.