New Lawsuit Highlights Ongoing Allegations of Business Obstruction Under Paine Administration
Mayor Jim Paine’s administration is again under scrutiny as another federal civil rights lawsuit accuses the City of Superior of stifling a local business’s efforts to grow — this time by blocking a rezoning application and interfering with a private land sale.
The lawsuit, filed by 2700 Winter LLC, alleges that Planning Director Jason Serck and Mayor Paine violated the company’s rights by keeping a legitimate rezoning request off the Planning Commission’s agenda — denying the business any chance for a public hearing.
“Since the submission of [its] application the City Planning Commission has refused to place this application on the agenda or provide 2700 Winter LLC an opportunity to be heard,” the suit claims.
More seriously, the complaint alleges city officials attempted to derail a private property sale by pressuring a neighboring landowner not to sell to the business.
City attorneys deny the claims, arguing the business has not exhausted its remedies under Wisconsin law and that the allegations don’t rise to the level of a federal civil rights violation.
But the case echoes earlier controversies where city officials have been accused of blocking or delaying business projects without clear, public justification. From licensing disputes to sudden zoning reversals, critics argue the Paine administration has fostered a climate of unpredictability and favoritism — deterring investment and frustrating local entrepreneurs.
Why It Matters to Taxpayers
This isn’t just a private dispute — it’s a reflection of how City Hall operates. When businesses can’t get a hearing, and real estate transactions are allegedly sabotaged by officials, it sends a clear signal: expansion in Superior is subject to political discretion.
Every stalled project or missed investment opportunity means fewer jobs, lower tax revenue, and increased strain on remaining taxpayers. For a city trying to grow its economic base, the appearance of selective obstruction and insider decision-making can do lasting harm.
Public boards like the Planning Commission exist to ensure open debate and public accountability. Blocking access to that process undermines the city’s own rules — and the public’s right to know.
Key Questions That Remain
Why was the 2700 Winter LLC application blocked from the Planning Commission agenda?
Did Mayor Paine or Director Serck contact the neighboring landowner to influence the property sale?
How often have zoning or development applications been denied without public explanation under the current administration?
What safeguards are in place to prevent politically motivated obstruction of local business efforts?
“This isn’t abstract accounting. It’s your tax bill. If City Hall believes this was justified they should be willing to explain it — clearly and on the record.”
Follow-Up Questions for Officials
Has the city established formal criteria for when zoning requests are placed on the Planning Commission agenda?
What is the administration’s response to claims that this is part of a broader pattern of business obstruction?
Will the city provide a list of zoning, permit, or development applications denied or delayed under the current administration — and the reasons given?
#ZonedOutWithJimAndJason
#BusinessAsUnusualInSuperior
On October 24, 2024, Ian Cuypers filed a federal civil rights complaint alleging that Superior Police Department officers used excessive force during a traffic stop and later pursued unsupported criminal charges. The lawsuit seeks damages for physical injury, emotional trauma, and malicious prosecution.
In March 2024, Superior Police Chief Paul Winterscheidt coordinated a meeting with a Superior Telegram reporter to discuss a Feb. 28 traffic stop where a Taser was used on Ian Cuypers.
In April 2024, Superior Police Chief Paul Winterscheidt sent a detailed email to a city councilor and resident defending a taser use during a traffic stop. The exchange highlights public concern, official justification, and transparency claims.
In spring 2024, Superior Police Chief Paul Winterscheidt exchanged emails with other agencies seeking an external expert to review a use-of-force incident. The correspondence reveals concerns about trial preparation, public scrutiny, and independent validation.
In May and June 2024, Superior Police Chief Paul Winterscheidt coordinated with regional law enforcement and training officials to secure an independent DAAT expert to review a use-of-force incident. The emails reflect transparency efforts, inter-agency communication, and preparation for potential courtroom testimony.
In March 2024, the City of Superior paid Fryberger Law Firm nearly $3,900 for legal services tied to the General Mills Dock HAP grant and the Lidgerwood Mundy TID 16 development project, detailing extensive work on development agreements and tax increment financing.
In March 2024, the City of Superior paid Stafford Rosenbaum LLP $236 for legal review of a construction completion report related to SWLP and MGP contamination near the wastewater treatment plant.
In February 2024, the City of Superior paid Stafford Rosenbaum LLP $186 for legal services related to environmental issues associated with NTEC, including review of construction phases and correspondence with the mayor.
In February 2024, the City of Superior paid Fryberger Law Firm for legal services related to the General Mills Dock HAP grant, bond prepayment, and Fraser Shipyards financing. The invoices detail hours billed, project descriptions, and taxpayer-funded legal costs.
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FOIA DOCS – Ian Cuypers v. Superior Police Department Officers and City of Superior – Federal Civil Rights Complaint (October 24, 2024)
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FOIA DOC – Superior Police Chief Explains Taser Use to City Council (April 2024)
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