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Friday, September 25, 2009

Minutes; Historic Preservation; Sept 2009

Evansville Historic Preservation Commission
Minutes
Monday, September 21, 2009 7:00 P.M.
3rd Floor, City Hall

Present: Rich Modaff, Betsy Ahner, Steve Culbertson, Rick Schuch, and Dennis Wessels
Absent: Steve Christens, John Decker
Also present: Melissa Destree, Jayson Wealti, Matthias James

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by chair Rich Modaff. Motion by Culbertson to waive the reading of the August 19, 2009 and the August 31, 2009 minutes and approve them as read. Second by Wessels. Motion carried.

Applications:

137 E. Main Street – Mathias James distributed a picture of the sign that he hoped to put on his building. Motion by Wessels to accept the application. Second by Culbertson. Motion carried.

319 W. Main Street – Jayson Wealti showed a photo of his home and explained how he would like to replace windows in the front and side to improve the energy efficiency and appearance of the home. Motion by Wessels to accept the application. Second by Culbertson. Motion carried.

103 W. Main Street – This roof was viewed and information was presented at the on-site meeting with the contractor on August 31. Motion by Wessels to approve the application. Second by Culbertson. Motion carried.

1 E. Main Street – Melissa Destree of Destree Design was present to represent the building owner. She showed a drawing of the building design, proposed signage and color samples that she plans to use on the exterior. Melissa met last week with Jim Sewell of the Wisconsin Historical Society and he has approved the signage. They are going for a mid-1930’s look with a large sign on the west sign of the building and a smaller one in the transom above the north door, rather than the large signage band shown in a former photo. Motion to approve the application by Wessels. Second by Ahner. Motion carried.

Old Business:

42 W. Church Street – an application submitted by a purchaser of the property for a fence was approved at the July 15, 2009 meeting but the sale was not completed. Motion by Wessels to rescind the previous approval for a fence. Second by Culbertson. Motion carried.

Administrative:

Grove Society – work is being done daily on the building to ready it for the open house during the Windmill Festival. Commission members are welcome to visit Thursday evening at 7 pm to see the progress.

John Decker could not be present but sent a report that there is nothing new to report on agenda items 6b, 6c and 6d.

Other Business:

Wessels reported that the 2010 proposed budget cuts the HPC budget to $1,800 rather than the $3,000 that has been budgeted in the past. Members were concerned about how this would affect the work of the Commission.

Motion by Wessels to adjourn the meeting. Second by Culberson. Motion carried.

The minutes of the Evansville Historic Preservation Commission are not official until approved by the Commission.

Minutes; Eager Free Library; August 2009

EAGER FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MEETING MINUTES 25 AUGUST 2009

2. Gwen Clendenning called the meeting to order at 5:30pm. Trustees present: Gwen Clendenning, Vicki Lecy-Luebke, Susan Kruser, Kim Miller. Wally Shannon and Eloise Eager arrived 5:45pm, Johanna Lema arrived at 6pm. Present: Library Director Kathi Kemp and City Council visitor Tony Wyse.
1. Director Evaluation. Tabled until next meeting. K. Miller has to finish compiling responses.

3. Approve meeting minutes.
G. Clendenning moved to approve the July minutes. K. Miller seconded. All in favor, none opposed. Motion carried.

4. August Bills.
We will own the microfilm reader when we complete the lease to own contract in Jan 2010 . S. Kruser moved to accept the July bills as presented. V. Lecy-Luebke seconded. Roll call vote: Aye: W. Shannon, E. Eager, V. Lecy-Luebke, G. Clendenning, S. Kruser and K. Miller. None opposed. Motion carried.

5. Librarian’s report.
Discussed technology plan and computer needs. All thirteen of the staff and patron computers are over 5 years old, some may be much older. We have the oldest computers in the Arrowhead library system. Three computers are performing very poorly and result in quite a few service calls. We’d like to replace those computers soon and then replace 1 or 2 computers annually so that we don’t get into a situation of having to replace several computers at the same time. K. Miller will work with K. Kemp to request bids from 3 computer business services companies.

Meeting room fee- When the library is in use outside normal open hours a staff person has to be on site and there are increased energy use costs. K. Kemp suggested raising the meeting room fee for after hours use from $30 to $40 an hour as it has not been raised in several years. V. Lecy-Luebke moved to raise the meeting room fee to $40/ hour when the room is in use outside of regular open hours to go into effect Jan 1, 2010. Roll call vote. Aye: W. Shannon, J. Lema, E. Eager, V. Lecy-Luebke, G. Clendenning, S. Kruser and K. Miller. None opposed. Motion carried.


Personnel Policy- Tabled. W. Shannon and K. Miller will have to work on reconciling the 2 versions for draft 10 of the policy.
Discussed potential influenza outbreaks and closure of the library. Will look into recommendations being suggested by State and Federal agencies. W. Shannon left at 6:30p.
Discussed 2010 budget. Reviewed a draft budget. The building maintenance and repair categories are combined now. Utility bills have gone up. K. Kemp cut the book, training and travel budgets. She is waiting for additional guidance from the City.
6 Adjourn.
V. Lecy-Luebke moved to adjourn. S. Kruser seconded. All in favor, none opposed. Next meeting will be Sept 29 at 5:30pm.

Minutes prepared by Trustee K. Miller

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Minutes: Evansville Community Center Case Validation Task Force: 9/21/2009

CASE VALIDATION TASK FORCE MINUTES
Monday, September 21, 2009, 7:00 p.m.
Union Bank & Trust

Minutes

Present: Chair Chris Eager, Lori Allen, Barb Andrew, Thea Brunsell, Toni Coats, John Decker, Ron DeKelver, Nicole Hamby, Bill Hartje, Dan Janes, Fred Juergens, Dan Laux, Janis Ringhand, Sverre Roang, Sherri Savchuk, Wally Shannon, Michelle Sturz, Consultant Kurt Saterbak. Absent: Betsy Ahner, Mary Calley, Gordon Franklin, Steve Hagen, Phil Hamilton, Carla Heimerl, Rose Helms, Jim Kopecky, Tim Magee, Kolleen Onsrud, John Peterson, Gene Prudhon, David Ross, Audrey Shomos, Gil Skinner, Diane Skinner, Greg Whitmore, John Willoughby, Phil Woodworth, Richard Woulfe, Doug Zweizig.


1. Call to Order: Welcome by Chair Chris Eager, thank you for coming. We will delve right into the process. Don’t worry about punctuation or spelling, we are looking at a higher level. State what is on your mind, this is an open discussion.

2. Review the First Draft

Overall Impression

First Thoughts

Wally Shannon - Can we address comments by Doug Zweizig first - Senior versus Community Center?

Chris Eager - Does the document state the case.

Thea Brunsell – Document is very thorough, what will we use this document for? Will we share it with others? Chris – we will each take 3 documents to share with others, to get their feedback. Kurt – this is a marketing tool, all arguments will be addressed in this document. Others will be asked to critique this document as well. All answers should be complete; this will be the basis for the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s). The document does not get handed to donors, it will help the solicitors.

Fred Juergens – I have the notion that the document is not clear – look at page 11, who is a senior? Perhaps we should shuffle things around a little. Strike Senior Services, move definition elsewhere. Senior is over emphasized, could be edited.

Barb Andrew – Add a section on Community Services. Page 14 – meeting room, community, reception room – name should be consistent.

Thea Brunsell – How much space is dedicated to Woodchucks? Ron DeKelver – same size as existing space in school, size of equipment requires this amount of space.

Dan Laux – Concerns about dedicated space for Woodchucks (WC), 3900+ sq ft. It is the single largest use of space in community center. Limited number of people will use this space, way too much space is being dedicated to this use.

Lori Allen – Woodchucks are a new group, if they fizzle out, what additional costs would be lost, such as expense of special equipment or installations. Ron DeKelver – wall between sections is a double wall to keep out dust, dirt and noise. No other special installation except air exchange system, which we already have.

Sherri Savchuk – Original plan changed because of concerns about noise, dust, etc

Lori Allen – Use is specific for this area, the rest of the building is flexible.

John Decker – Space can be irreducible and still function. Equipment has already been purchased or donated by Woodchucks. Woodworking has become a driving force behind men joining the Center. This group has donated projects to the community in a phenomenal way. It would be unrealistic to build separately. Converting the space to other use would be a simple process. The air handling equipment might not be used, but the rest would be convertible. Many middle aged and older men have been energized by this program.

Ron DeKelver - Would be glad to give tours to anyone who is interested in seeing existing space.

Chris Eager – Would WC offer classes?

Fred Juergens – We are offering mentoring to middle school boys who are at risk. Mike Czerwonka, School Social Worker, is spearheading this project. Ads have offered classes; some new members have joined for that reason. U-Rock & Blackhawk offer classes; we could run similar classes here.

Chris Eager – The woodworking space will bring in other members or community members.

Fred Juergens – Would be happy to mentor other groups or scouts.

Chris Eager – Kurt – We can’t resolve this issue now, let’s move on with the process. Kurt Saterbak asked John Decker for a quote to insert into the brochure regarding community service aspect of WC..

Dan Laux – Is there an opportunity to use the school’s woodworking shop? My reaction is that it serves so few and takes so much space. Too much of a good thing for this situation. Maybe one of the Woodchucks could come forward to pay for the space. I don’t think there is enough meeting space. Audio Visual (AV) should be available in all rooms, to keep things equal. We have the opportunity to do this right, more meeting space should be available.

Sherri Savchuk – Do the WC make money?

Ron D – We accept donations for work, recoup expenses for materials, plus donations. All funds go back into Primetimers funds.

Bill Hartje – What would bring people into the center on a regular basis? WC is one thing, large meeting room would be used for some purposes; game room looks small for that type of activity. No windows in the game room, is that a detriment?

Fred Juergens – Changing design – is that our job? We should be getting message to BOD who are designing the building.

Chris Eager – Our comments will go forward, but on the other hand, we are going to make the case. Others will comment on size of WC, we need to make the case, issue needs to be addressed in some form. Let’s move on.

Sverre Roang – It seems like the document was written for a Senior Center, community was inserted afterward, feels like a senior center. Primary gift was for a Senior Center, but what if it’s not called the Senior Center, would it go over better if the name were changed?

Chris Eager – Don’t know if that is an issue, question should be raised. Community-Senior is slanted toward seniors.

Dan Laux – Not really slanted, needs to be clearer. Seniors are not excluded, everyone gets to use space.

Ron DeKelver – Community Center – define community – what area are we reaching out to.

Bill Hartje – How was employee/personnel expense arrived at?

Kurt Saterbak – There is a Business Operation Task Force – Gary Fuchs is Chair, with members Dave Olsen, Brad Fahlgren, Sandy Decker and Cindy Hurst. Following their format for responsibilities, sought out other centers for their positions and salary ranges. Non profit salaries compared – we are on the low end.

Bill Hartje - Does Executive Director salary include benefits? Kurt Saterbak – no, no benefits are included. FICA & Social Security are included, Workers Comp included. No insurance is allowed for at this time, the expense would be over whelming.

John Decker – My wife is on that committee, revenue and expense questions have bombarded Business Operations Committee. Nuts and bolts will come from another Task Force.

How is it Organized, does the information flow?

Nicole Hamby – It become somewhat redundant. Chris – that is by design, repetition makes people remember.

Barb Andrew – Needs to be more concise and to the point. Chris – too much fluff? Barb – if I have to write a term paper of 1000 words, but I could do it in 750, should it be 1000?

Dan Laux – Use of fact sheets, Evansville is special, but we compare to other communities. Evansville should do this project, but we are no more special than anyone else. We want to meet a need, does it support growth or cohesiveness. What is the evidence that we are more caring or special?

Sverre Roang – It says something extraordinary is happening here, but doesn’t state what. End of 2nd paragraph, page 5. I think it is weak, it is fluff, we don’t need the fluff, we are a great community and we want to do a great thing.

Chris Eager – We are bringing up a lot of things that I didn’t think of. Very good.

Narrative verses appendices - add to the body or vice versa

Chris Eager – Hearing none, we will move on.

Areas not covered

Chris Eager – Did we miss anything?

Nicole Hamby – Answers to case validation questions were not answered – will taxes go up or down, was not addressed in document. References didn’t answer questions.

Barb Andrew – Didn’t find answers – Plan B, number of pledges to start project? No answer.

Nicole Hamby – Budget from the city does not address affect on taxes.

Barb Andrew – Plan B is supposed to be addressed on page 31, paragraph 1, it isn’t there.

Kurt Saterbak – Plan B becomes Plan A. If Plan B meets the needs that Pan A would, but at a lower cost, then Plan A goes away. We work hard to make Plan A work out. Experience shows that when given and option, people will settle for a lesser plan. Our answer is that we will not exceed the funds raised when it comes to construction.

Dan Laux – Same page and vein, will utilize local trades and companies, does this mean we don’t go out for bids, would we overlook low bids. If we can get equal quality for less, would we overlook it?

John Decker – Can be a sore point with local businesses and suppliers. Is there a commitment to work with local businesses? Lots of comments out there already, lower bids should be addressed.

Lori Allen – If bids are not within a certain percent, can’t go outside the community?

John Decker – It is not a city project, don’t have to go to lowest bidder. Organization has the flexibility to choose the contractor it wants, regardless of bid.

Dan Laux – Look and feel of community, pride, old houses, my preference would be that we don’t skimp, we want to be proud of this in the future.

Bill Hartje – Who makes the decisions? How will the board be determined? Who makes the decisions? If we say we are only going to take low bids, it will be a problem

Chris Eager - Make information available about board structure and who is on the BOD. Won’t withhold information, but may not belong in this document.

Chris Eager – Any thing we missed?

Thea Brunsell – Other Task Force members’ e-mailed comments – will we address those? Chris – we will cover those later in another section of the agenda.

Chris Eager - Did we miss anything or something not covered?

Barb Andrew – What is the difference between operating and maintenance funds? Kurt will clarify.

John Decker – Use of photographs – may have precipitated Doug Zweizig’s comments. Might be a better selection of photographs, not so many seniors.

Barb Andrew – Should be just building on cover, not people, it obstructs the view of the building.

Sverre Roang – Too many renditions of building through out the document.

John Decker – I felt the same way – need to show ways it will be used, what will go on inside.

Chris Eager – Should the photos be of local people?

Toni Coates – Page 30, is this wise use of space for something that may not be needed?

Fred Juergens – I like it, it will not be given to donors, will be good for those who are using it. Clarifies that you can do something, not everything, but something. Resource for finding ways to encourage donors.

Lori Allen – I would think this (document) would be used often for solicitation.

Sverre Roang – I have worked with Dane County United Way – they created agenda for change. Created 7 areas of change, with goals with measureable results. People with money have saved and invested well, beef up benefits of investment section. Measure operations for return on investment. Define how it is actually working, might tip the scales for large contributions. How will the investment in the center pay off, if I invest, I will see x-y-z in results. Measureable matrix for results. Measure of success that the board will look at and measure future success for the community.

Chris Eager – We need accountability in the document. Something that is touched on but not really confirmed – what are comments? Should there be a membership – will we exclude those who can’t afford memberships.

Nicole Hamby – If taxes aren’t affected, we should have a user fee.

Barb Andrew – Should non-profits be charged?

Sherri Savchuk – Will we membership plus class fees? Chris Eager - Yes

Bill Hartje – What will membership fee get you? Membership seems to be for activity rooms, not community rooms.

Sherri Savchuk – Will we charge membership for county meal service? Janis Ringhand – no County pays rent to Center to serve meals there, no fees required.

Sverre Roang – Memberships for seniors should not be charged.

Thea Brunsell – Is there a Family fee vs Single fee?

Dan Janes – We need lifetime memberships for large investors. They will not want to pay annual fees if they donated a large amount ($100,000).

Bill Hartje – Non-profits could not pay $75 for room rental.

Barb Andrew – Non-profit no charge on some pages , other page says there is a charge.

Dan Laux – Storage and trash handling areas are always undersized, need more space for those.

Chris Eager – Are any areas over emphasized? None stated

Chris Eager - The good, the bad and the ugly?

Chris Eager – E-mailed comments – questions whether we can afford during this time, is it too much.

Dan Laux – Focusing on one other community is difficult because we don’t know what else is there. We can’t compare with them.

Fred Juergens – Fiduciary questions should be responsibility of BOD. Not our responsibility to determine if we should go forward at this time.

Bill Hartje – One suggestion – in the school referendum – geothermal heating was something special. The green movement is going on – makes ours special. Janis Ringhand – we have incorporated Green Building into the project, we have been in contact with Focus on Energy, Wisconsin Center for Energy and WPPI. We will follow LEEDS guidelines, but will not certify because of the cost involved. Bill Hartje - Green building – get this information into the documents.

Wally Shannon – Question – conservatively progressive? Not sure if this is not needed.

Chris Eager – Please turn in drafts to Janis.

Chris Eager – next meeting – what process do you want to follow – do not fast forward. Lots of good points brought up, need to talk about them and make the document something we can be proud of. Information will be reworked and redistributed on Thursday, September 24.

Next meeting – Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. at UB&T Meeting Room.

Adjourned at 8:50 p.m.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Minutes: Public Safety; 9/2/2009

Public Safety Committee
Wednesday, September 2, 2009 6:00 P.M.
Regular Meeting
Evansville City Hall Council Room
31 S Madison Street

MINUTES

1. Call to Order – meeting was called to order at 6:03 p.m.
2. Roll Call – Present: Alderpersons Diane Roberts, Chair, Dennis Wessels, and Barb Jacobson. Staff present: Police Chief Scott McElroy, and EMS Coordinator Mary Beaver. Others present: W. Pavlok, Lori Allen and Tom Calley, ECP, and W. Shannon.
3. Approval of Agenda – Motion by Jacobson, second by Wessels to approve the agenda as printed.
4. Motion by Wessels, second by Jacobson to approve the August 5, 2009 regular meeting minutes as printed.
5. Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed – W Pavlok, 613 Hillside Court had concerns and questions regarding the live music at the Pieper Residence.
6. Evansville Police Report – Chief McElroy reported that there were 911 calls for service in August, with 76 license plate transfers. The Accreditation program is still in progress, and EVOC training for all officers will continue through the end of the year.
7. Evansville Medical Service Report – Coordinator Beaver reported that there were 242 runs to date, with 31 in the month of August. The EMS will receive an award for community recognition at the September 10 “Just Desserts” Event. Recruitment is an ongoing task with one student enrolled in class this fall. Training is ongoing for licensing in 2010. The EMS will participate in a lake rescue with Albany and Evansville Fire Departments on September 14.
8. Old Business -
A. Motion by Jacobson, second by Wessels, to table to recommend to Common Council adoption of Wisconsin State Statute regarding the Operation of ATVs within the City limits until the October meeting pending further information. Sponsored by
B. The Police Department Building Remodel is progressing with the floors and ceiling being installed and the trim and cabinets to follow next.
9. New Business -
A. Motion by Roberts, second by Wessels, to approve the Provisional License Application for Erika Schulthess. Based on information in #3 of the application and the record check, the motion failed.
B. Motion by Jacobson, second by Wessels, to approve the Operator License Applications for LaCinda Lyons, Jeffery Benzine and Natalie Utech. Motion passed on a roll call vote.
C. The public hearing opened at 6:55 p.m. regarding the Street Use License for the Harvest Windmill Festival October 2-4, 2009.

Alderman Wessels asked that parking be limited to one side of the street on Franklin and Jackson and that detour signs be posted.

Tom Calley representing Evansville Community Partnership, spoke about the safety of vendors and pedestrians regarding the street closure.

The Public Hearing was closed at 6:37 p.m.

D. Motion by Jacobson, second by Wessels, to approve the Street Use License for the Harvest Windmill Festival on October 2-4, 2009 with the stipulation that parking would be on one side of Franklin and Jackson Streets with a detour route for traffic, and signage for closure to begin October 2 at noon and end on Sunday, October 4, 2009 at 7 p.m. Motion passed.
E. Motion by Roberts, second by Wessels, to approve the Temporary Class “B”/”Class B” Retailer’s Picnic License Application and Temporary Bartender’s List for Evansville Community Partnership for the Harvest Windmill Festival on October 2 through October 4, 2009. Motion passed.
F. Motion by Roberts, second by Wessels, to approve the EMS Policy to set non-transport/standby fees. Motion passed.
G. There was discussion of 2010 Budget by all present.

10. Motion by Wessels, second by Jacobson, to adjourn at 7:25 p.m. Motion passed.

Respectfully submitted,
Diane Roberts, Chairperson


These minutes are not official until approved by Public Safety at their next regular meeting

Friday, September 18, 2009

Minutes: Common Council: Budget hearing; Sept 16, 2009

Common Council
Special Meeting – Budget Presentation
Wednesday, September 16, 2009, 6:30 p.m.
City Hall, 31 South Madison Street, Evansville, Wisc.

Minutes

1. Call to order. The meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm by Mayor Sandy Decker.

2. Roll call. Members present: Mayor Sandy Decker, Alderpersons Mason Braunschweig, Tom Cothard, Todd Culbertson, Barb Jacobson (arrived at 6:35), Janis Ringhand, Diane Roberts, Dennis Wessels, and Tony Wyse.

Others present: City Administrator Dan Wietecha, Finance Director Lisa Novinska, Water & Light Superintendent Scott George, Library Director Kathi Kemp, Municipal Judge Tom Alisankus, Police Chief Scott McElroy, EMS Coordinator Mary Beaver, Public Works Superintendent Dave Wartenweiler, Aquatics Director Rick Hamacher, Library Board member Susan Kruser, Dick Woulfe, and Kendall Schneider.

3. Approval of agenda. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to approve the agenda as presented. Motion approved unanimously.

4. Citizen appearances. None.

5. 2010 Budget Presentations. Each department head and/or committee presented their proposed capital and operating budgets. The Council asked questions throughout the presentations.
A. Water & Light Utility
B. Library
C. Finance
D. Municipal Court
E. Police Department
F. Fire District
G. Emergency Medical Service
H. Public Works
• Building Inspection
• Public Works Department, general
• Recycling & Disposal
• Parks Department, maintenance
• Cemetery
• Wastewater Utility
• Stormwater Utility
I. Pool, Park Store, and Recreation
J. General Fund Revenues
K. Miscellaneous
L. TID #5-8
M. Debt Service

6. City Administrator. Wietecha said that the general fund deficit had been reduced from $132,000 to $33,000 with the budget requests. This was done through the payment schedule for the Lake Leota bonds, reduction in levy-supported capital expenditures, re-allocation of staff expenses from the general fund to the stormwater utility, reduction in planning and engineering expenses which had been high since work on the Smart Growth Plan several years ago, and various lesser expenditure cuts. Some of these actions are long-term, structural solutions; while, others are only one-time fixes to help the immediate budget.

Wietecha noted several minor corrections for the budget based on figures that came in after the proposal had been compiled. He pointed out several possible capital expenditures that had been discussed recently but not included in the budget.

Wietecha recommended a hiring freeze, freezing wages for salaried employees, eliminating the direct financial subsidy to the recreational baseball and softball programs, and looking first to reducing part-time and seasonal employees for additional cuts.

7. Adjourn. Roberts made a motion, seconded by Ringhand, to adjourn. Motion approved unanimously at 9:50 pm.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Minutes: Evansville Park Board: Sept 2009

PARK & RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES
Monday, September 14, 2009, 6:00 p.m.
City Hall


Present: Fred Juergens, Jeff Farnsworth, Janis Ringhand, Jerry Krueger, Sue Merritt (6:40). Absent: Rich Modaff, Ron Carlsen. Staff: Ray Anderson & Rick Hamacher.

Meeting called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Ringhand.

Juergens/Farnsworth motion to approve the agenda, unanimous.

Juergens/Farnsworth motion to approve minutes of the August 17, 2009 meeting as printed, unanimous.

Citizen appearances – none.

Tom Calley request for funds for trees for Westside Park, not present, see below.

Discussion and motion to establish policy regarding park equipment. Juergens/ Farnsworth motion to approve the donations policy. Juergens/Farnsworth motion to table until October meeting, unanimous.

Update on Lake Leota – SOLE – No SOLE Members present. Fish stocking has been postponed until week of September 21.

Discussion on planting plan from John Gishnock. Farnsworth/Juergens motion to spend $1600.00 from the Antes Fund for a formal plan for the development of the landscape and outdoor spaces at the Park, unanimous.

Juergens/ Farnsworth motion to offer a max of $1,000.00 for a demonstration planting area in Lake Leota Park this fall out of Antes Fund, with board approval after meeting at the park to view plans established by John Gishnock, Unanimous.

Lake liability and safety issues need more information from City Administrator regarding winter activities.

Look into placement of sign on warming house.

Nothing to report on actions of City Committees.

Park & Rec Maintenance report: Bid for camera’s for park, high price tag. Discussion on security system for next summer, need to stop vandalism. How is vandalism treated thru the insurance company? Self insurance? West side portapot issues, vandalism is occurring there. Chained to fence currently so it can’t be tipped over again. Pretty quiet since the pool closed.

Aquatics Report – nothing, winterizing and repairing items this fall, painting. Should be done by end of September.

Advertise for rental of park store, check with Kyle Allen first, SOLE might be interested.

Krueger/Juergens motion to allocate $500.00 for tree purchase by Tom Calley, for Westside Park, if he can provide a watering plan for tree maintenance to Ray Anderson, unanimous.

Motion to adjourn 7:00 p.m. by Merritt/Juergens, unanimous.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Minutes: Common Council: September, 2009

Common Council

Regular Meeting

Tuesday, September 8, 2009, 6:30 p.m.

City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI

MINUTES

1. Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mayor Sandy Decker.

2. Roll call. Members present: Mayor Sandy Decker, Alderpersons Mason Braunschweig, Tom Cothard, Todd Culbertson, Barb Jacobson, Janis Ringhand, Diane Roberts, Dennis Wessels, and Tony Wyse. Others present: City Administrator Dan Wietecha, City Clerk Judy Walton, Consigny Law Office Attorney Mike Faust, Municipal Judge Tom Alisankus, Kelly Gildner from The Review, Rod Courtier from S.O.L.E., and Greg Johnson from Ehlers & Associates.

3. Approval of Agenda. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts to move Item 9D to Item 6E and approve the agenda. Motion approved unanimously.

4. Approval of Minutes. Cothard made a motion, seconded by Braunschweig to waive the reading of the minutes of the August 11, 2009 regular meeting and to approve them as presented. Motion approved unanimously.

5. Citizen appearances.

A. SOLE. Rod Courtier stated they are looking for help for the upcoming fish stocking of 3-5” bluegill, crappie and perch (6,000 of each). Trout Unlimited may be available to assist. He added that there is a large amount of different sized minnows, a result of the prior stocking. He inquired about the algae on the lake and Ringhand explained that this is a natural occurrence that should clear up in a couple of years.

6. Reports of Committees.

A. Plan Commission Report. None

B. Finance and Labor Relations Committee Report.

(1). Cothard made a motion, seconded by Braunschweig to approve the Water & Light bills and authorize their payment in the amount of $582,118.83. Motion approved unanimously on a roll call vote.

(2). Cothard made a motion, seconded by Braunschweig to approve the City bills and authorize their payment in the amount of $283,451.11. Motion approved unanimously on a roll call vote.

(3). Cothard made a motion, seconded by Roberts to approve calculation of sanitary sewer charges per Item C which has 60% Debt going to variable rate. Wietecha reviewed with Council the existing annual cost per residence and three options for the new cost. The Public Works and Finance Committees had recommended Item C of his handout, $5.52/month + $4.65/1,000 gal. Motion approved unanimously on a roll call vote.

C. Public Safety Committee Report. None

D. Public Works Committee Report. None

E. Water & Light Committee Report.

9D – Cothard made a motion, seconded by Roberts to approve Resolution 2009-23 Authorizing the Issuance and Sale of $945,000 Water and Electric System Revenue Bonds of the City of Evansville, Rock County, Wisconsin, and Providing for the Payment of the Bonds and Other Details With Respect to the Bonds. Greg Johnson reviewed the sales results. A lower interest rate and lower issuance expenses reduced the bond amount to $935,000. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts to amend the motion by changing the amount from $945,000 to $935,000. Motion approved unanimously. Main motion, as amended, approved unanimously on a roll call vote.

F. Economic Development Committee Report. None

G. Redevelopment Authority Report. Wietecha stated there will be a ground breaking ceremony for the rehabilitation of the Dave Mosher building on Thursday morning.

H. Parks and Recreation Board Report. Ringhand stated they will be receiving a price list for prairie plantings. Improvement and beautification funds are available through the Antes Family Foundation.

I. Historic Preservation Commission Report. None

J. Fire District Report. None

K. Police Commission Report. None

L. Evansville-Union Implementation Committee Report. Ringhand stated the joint maps have been sent back to the engineer for corrections.

M. Youth Center Advisory Board Report. None

N. Energy Independence Team Report. None

O. Library Board/Liaison Report. Wyse stated they are aggressively working on solving their computer needs and cutting back on budgeted expenses.

7. Unfinished Business. None

8. Communications and Recommendations from the Mayor.

A. Mayor Decker presented her Proclamation for National Friends of the Library Week, which will be the week of October 18-24, 2009.

9. Communications from the City Administrator.

A. Wietecha reminded Council of the budget presentations on Wednesday, September 16, at 6:30 p.m.

B. Wietecha reminded Council of the League of Wisconsin Municipalities annual conference October 14-16.

C. Wietecha updated Council on the status of eminent domain proceedings. Appraisals were received and copies sent certified mail to the property owners. They have 60 days to respond.

D. Moved to Item 6E

10. New Business. None

11. Introduction of New Ordinances.

A. Braunschweig presented the first reading of Ordinance 2009-07, Adopting Alternative Payment Method. [Sponsors Cothard and Braunschweig].

12. Motion to adjourn. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts to adjourn at 7:09 p.m. Motion approved unanimously.

Prepared by Judy Walton, City Clerk

The minutes are not official until approved by the Common Council at their next regular meeting.

Friday, September 4, 2009

Minutes: Plan Commission: September 2009

City of Evansville Plan Commission
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, September 1, 2009, 6:00 p.m.
City Hall (Third Floor), 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI

MINUTES

1. Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Mayor Sandy Decker.

2. Roll Call. Members present: Mason Braunschweig, Jim Brooks Sandy Decker, John Gishnock, Bill Hammann and Diane Roberts. Members absent: Carol Endres. Others Present: City Administrator Dan Wietecha, City Planner John Stockham, Bev Krueger, Tracy Beecraft and John Decker.

3. Approval of agenda. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts to approve the agenda as printed. Motion approved unanimously.

4. Approval of minutes.

A. Roberts made a motion, seconded by Brooks to waive the reading of the minutes from the August 3, 2009 regular meeting and the August 12, 2009 joint city and town plan commissions educational meeting and approve them as printed. Motion approved unanimously.

5. Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed. None

6. New matters.

A. Review of site plan and motion to approve site plan for Baker Office Building. Stockham stated the only permit needed is the site plan review. Gishnock gave an overview of the master plan for the grounds surrounding the Baker Office Building. He explained that the site would be built in phases over many years. The lighting and signage plans would be presented in the future. Mr. Gishnock’s work on this plan was on a volunteer basis. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts to approve the site plan for the Baker Office Building. Motion approved unanimously.

B. Conceptual presentation and discussion – No formal action Rezoning to from R-2 to B-3 – 110 Walker Street. Stockham suggested treating this as a conceptual discussion because of the unique situation and need for exceptional findings. A formal application would cost approximately $750. Braunschweig stated his concerns regarding discussion of a project prior to a public hearing. Bev Krueger gave a history of the property. Tracy Beecraft explained his type of business and his reasons for using this location. There was no discussion by the Commission.

C. Progress in Implementing Smart Growth Plan. The Commission discussed ways to compile the information of the various chapters of the plan after each committee has finished their review.

7. Report on other permitting activity by City Planner. Stockham stated there was no response to the published Comprehensive Plan Amendment notices. He added that the property owner at 119 E Main Street is considering opening an auto-related business and that plan would be coming before the Commission.

8. Discussion of August 12, 2009 joint city and town plan commissions meeting and possible next steps. Decker stated that the proposed joint maps contained errors that are being corrected and will be forwarded to both Plan Commissions. Each Plan Commission would study and discuss the joint map and committee recommendations. A joint Plan Commission meeting with a public hearing will be held.

9. Report of the Unified Land Development Code Committee. Stockham stated the next meeting will probably be in October. They are working on the landscaping section.

10. Report of the Evansville Historic Preservation Commission. None

11. Report of the Evansville-Union Implementation Committee. None

12. Update on Common Council actions relating to Plan Commission recommendations. Approval of zoning ordinance updates.

13. Update on Board of Appeals actions relating to zoning matters. None

14. Update on Rock County Smart Growth Plan. Decker stated the plan will be presented to the Rock County Board of Supervisors for possible adoption on September 10th.

15. Enforcement. None

16. Next regular meeting date. Hammann made a motion, seconded by Braunschweig to change the next meeting date to Tuesday, October 6, 2009. Motion approved unanimously.

17. Motion to adjourn. Hammann made a motion, seconded by Roberts to adjourn at 6:50 p.m. Motion approved unanimously.

Prepared by Judy Walton, City Clerk

The minutes are not official until approved by the Plan Commission at their next regular meeting.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Minutes: Case Validation Task Force: August 31,2009

CASE VALIDATION TASK FORCE
Monday, August 31, 2009
Union Bank & Trust Meeting Room

Minutes

Present: Chair Chris Eager, Betsy Ahner, Lori Allen, Barb Andrew, Thea Brunsell, Mary Calley, Toni Coats, John Decker, Ron DeKelver, Nicole Hamby, Phil Hamilton, Bill Hartje, Carla Heimerl, Rose Helms, Fred Juergens, Jim Kopecky, Dan Laux, Tim Magee, Kolleen Onsrud, Gene Prudhon, Janis Ringhand, David Ross, Wally Shannon, Audrey Shomos, Diane Skinner, Gil Skinner, Michelle Sturz, Greg Whitmore, John Willoughby. Absent: Gordon Franklin, Steve Hagen, Dan Janes, John Peterson, Sverre Roang, Sherri Savchuk, Phil Woodworth, Richard Woulfe, Doug Zweizig. Consultant: Kurt Saterbak.

1. Call to order

Welcome by Chair Chris Eager, thank you for coming, let’s get started! Chris turned
the meeting over to Kurt Saterbak.

2. Brainstorming process

Who will use the facility –

1. Reunions-Class & Family 13. Crafters 25. Council on Aging
2. Political Groups 14. Children’s Groups 26. Churches
3. Weddings 15. Cooking Groups 27. PTO
4. Community & School Clubs 16. Classes 28. I & E Club
5. Seniors 17. Public Forums 29. Commuters
6. Service Clinics 18. Woodchucks 30. Parents
7. Voters 19. YMCA 31. Neighboring
8. Blood Drives 20. Private Parties Communities
9. Entertainers 21. Library/Larger Events 32. Non-Profits
10. Art Exhibits 22. Chamber 33. EMT Classes
11. Cultural Clubs 23. Town Boards
12. Fitness Groups 24. Blackhawk Tech

What are the consequences of not completing this project?

1. Continued Outflow of Citizens 11. Let Down for People Who 19. Lose Opportunity to
for Other Opportunities Have Put Lots of Time Into Enrich Sense of
2. Maintaining the Status Quo/ Project Community
Stagnating 12. Wider Gap to Meet 20. Don’t Want to Feel
3. Lack of Opportunity for Community Needs Like a Lesser
Intergenerational Contact/ 13. Additional Space for Community
Networking Voting 21. Disappoint Seniors
4. Loss of $1M Trust 14. Loss of Momentum 22. Less Business for
5. Diminishment of Entertainment, 15. No Phase I, No Phase II Local Economy
Educational Opportunities & 16. Woodchucks Would Be 23. No Dedicated
Draw to the Community Homeless Senior Site
6. No Central Meeting Place 17. Will Need Meals on 24. Limited Programs
7. Loss of Programs Wheels Site 25. Loss of Potential $$
8. No Conference Sites in Town 18. Loss of Attraction for 26. Loss of Crown
9. Nothing Will Change Prospective Business & Jewel
10. Limited Space for Larger Residents 27. May Have To Go
Meetings Through This Process Again
Who will directly benefit from the EC&SC?

1. People Who Work There 11. Red Cross Blood Drives 20. Caterers
2. Employees 12. Other Communities 21. Bank if it Provides
3. Seniors Who Could Use It Financing
4. Woodchucks 13. School-Added Room 22. Commuters
5. Community in General 14. Civic Groups 23. Cleaning Company
6. Local Business 15. Storm Water District 24. Homebound Elderly
7. Contractors/Builders 16. Water & Light Dept. 25. Food Suppliers
8. Maintenance Contractors 17. Neighbors – Won’t Have 26. Insurers
9. Volunteer Coordinators To Look At Empty Lot 27. Educators
May Have More Help 18. Suppliers of Materials 28. Baker Mfg.
10. People Who Like 19. Magnet for Future
Something New Development In TIF #5

Who will indirectly benefit from the EC & SC?

1. Restaurants 9. Families of Users 17. Citizens Who Don’t
2. Hotel 10. Community Residents Use It Directly Can
3. Kelly House 11. Realtors Indirectly Benefit
4. Heights of E-ville Manor 12. Home Owners 18. Community Pride
5. Gas Stations 13. Farmers 19. Schools
6. Banks 14. Farmers Market 20. New Residents
7. Home Sellers 15. Children of Seniors 21. Suppliers of Chucks
8. Newcomers 16. People Who Are Near of Wood
Retirement 22. All Local Businesses

Why is this project, The Community & Senior Center, important to Evansville? Me? Us?

1. Lack of Gathering Space 11. Help Existing Organizations 22. Important Social
2. Meeting the Needs of Seniors Function More Efficiently Center for Young &
and Other Members of the 12. Encourage Artistic Expression Old
Community 13. Community Togetherness 23. Provide Focal Point
3. On An Even Par With Other 14. Aesthetically Pleasing for Shared Exper-
Communities 15. Truly A Community Facility iences and Fun
4. Space That Allows Us To 16. Help Keep Community Alive 24. Environment for
Think To The Next Step (Pool) 17. Strengthen Bonds Lifelong Learning
5. Beautiful Place For Family 18. Proves We Can Do Some- 25. Contribute to Down
Events thing Important, Even In Town Revitalization
6. Cleans Up That Dark Spot Bad Economic Times 26. Help Develop a
7. Chance For All Of Us To Take 19. Appealing Addition to Sense of Place
Classes Here Not There Community 27. Emergency Shelter
8. Swim Here Not There 20. Momentum Space
9. Shows We Value Our Seniors 21. Attract Rural Neighbors
10. Sense Of Pride


Kurt noted that the comments are visionary rather than bricks and mortar type, that shows we
understand the underlying benefits of the project.

Kurt will work all this information into a comprehensive package that will be used for public presentations. Everyone will receive an electronic copy by September 16; Kurt will need time to put the project together. Print your copy, mark it up with a highlighter, make changes, and correct spelling. Next meeting Chris will help tear it apart and we will put it back together. The 4th meeting we will have a clean copy to take out to new eyes to review. All questions will be answered and tabbed for reference; you need to let us know if we answered the questions. These questions and answers will be the basis for our frequently asked questions, FAQ’s. It will be our document with our comments and phraseology.

The next meeting will be Monday September 21st, Kurt will get a draft to us by September 16, so we can review and critique.

Adjourn at 8:10 p.m.

Next Meeting - Monday, September 21st at 7:00 p.m., Union Bank & Trust Meeting Room