Boundary agreement shows rivals can work together

Working together can be difficult when having conflicting goals. But it can also be ultimately beneficial and rewarding for those who put aside their differences to find their common ground. We trust that will be the case for the city of La Crosse and the Town of Shelby, neighbors who for years have been in conflict, but now are on the verge of a historic shared boundary agreement. Leaders of the two communities, after years of work behind the scenes, have agreed on a 20-year agreement that addresses each community’s needs. Getting here wasn’t easy, but both the city and the town stand to benefit from this deal. Generally, it allows some Shelby property to annex to La Crosse, while providing La Crosse sewer and water to much of the town. It also allows Shelby to develop property neighboring La Crosse without interference from the city. Shared police and fire services are also possible. This deal still needs to be approved by the governments of both communities, but it makes sense. La Crosse and Shelby already share a school district, and this allows further cooperation, and less conflict. Putting aside long-standing differences and feelings takes a lot of sacrifice and pride-swallowing, but as we are seeing with this agreement, can be beneficial for both sides.