April Proceedings. Tuesday April 15, :00 a.m.

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1 Tuesday April 15, :00 a.m. Meeting called to order by outgoing Chairman Truax at 9:01 a.m. Roll call by County Clerk J. Feuerhelm with 15 supervisors present; R. Anderson participating by phone; S. Mulhern excused. Also attending were Administrative Coordinator M. Schroeder, Corporation Counsel K. Clayton- Ebert, and several county residents. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by all present. Public Comments: Ralph Schommer from Trenton Township spoke on the merits of good county board stewardship. Public Hearing for CDBG: Milk Volume Production Program - Brand: Janet Olson, Director of Economic Development Corporation gave a summary on this loan program and answered numerous questions from the supervisors and others in attendance. Public hearing closed at 9:30 a.m. after no further comments. Barb Nemecek, UWRF presentation on board duties was postponed to a later date, possibly in June. Annual Reports: R. Truax would like to have department heads at future meetings to elaborate on their reports. Motion from R. Ruemmele, seconded by R. Farrell to accept Annual Reports. Ralph Schommer requested a better accounting of department budgets in the reports. AC M. Schroeder responded that it s not possible to obtain the fiscal year end figures in time to be included. Building Space Needs: AC M. Schroeder explained the results of a survey he d gotten back from 11 of the 17 supervisors to prioritize what they felt were the County s space needs. Several county residents commented on taxpayers concerns. Lengthy discussion on priorities, building options, site preferences, and costs. Motion by B. Schroeder, seconded by R. Ruemmele to refer back to Finance/Personnel. Motion carried with all in favor. Committee Reports: B. Schroeder reported on grants available from the DNR, mainly through the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship fund. R. Ruemmele stated that Merlin Blaisdell would like to return to Land Management Committee if he is not chosen for the Veteran Service Office job. R. Ruemmele also requested that the supervisors thoroughly read the report that Judge Wing had prepared on home monitoring for jail inmates. K. Schilling reported on an information packet for marketing the Fair that was prepared by the new Fair Coordinator, Diane Baumgartner. All legislation may be acted upon with first reading at annual meeting. Resolution County Participation in the Wisconsin Community Development Block Grant Milk Volume Production for Economic Development Program read by Clerk Feuerhelm. Motion to approve by L. Peterson, seconded by B. Schroeder. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Resolution Transfer of Funds from General Fund into Jail, Sheriff, and Training Aids Account read by Clerk Feuerhelm. Motion to approve by R. Ruemmele, seconded by L. Peterson. B. Schroeder stated that Sheriff Muhlhausen needs to do a better job with his budgeting so it does not April Proceedings require additional funding. Sheriff Muhlhausen stated the reasons for the budget overruns and that those are items he has no control over. Supervisors and citizens commented on home monitoring and allocating money from the general fund. Motion carried by roll vote with 15 (Kucinski, Nellessen, Schilling, Hines, Ruemmele, Farrell, Kosin, Schroeder, Bengtson, Truax, Peterson, Ash, Speerstra, Larson, Rommel) in favor; 1 (Anderson) opposed. Resolution In Support of Point Douglas Recreational Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail read by Clerk Feuerhelm. Motion to approve by R. Ruemmele, seconded by B. Schroeder. R. Ruemmele clarified that this resolution supports the development of the trail but will not require any funding from Pierce County. Schilling not voting; motion carried by voice vote with the rest in favor. Resolution Create Finance Policies for Accounting, Purchasing, and Payment of Claims. Motion by R. Ruemmele, seconded by R. Farrell to waive reading. Motion carried with all in favor. Motion to approve by R. Ruemmele, seconded by B. Schroeder. No discussion. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Resolution Amend the Travel Policy, General Provisions, Regarding Out-of-State Training and Travel Requests reading by Clerk Feuerhelm. Motion to approve by D. Hines, seconded by R. Farrell. AC M. Schroeder pointed out typing errors. Motion to amend resolution by D. Hines, seconded by R. Farrell by adding words out-of-state in first sentence, second paragraph under Pierce County Travel Policy: General Provisions regarding reimbursement of travel expenses. Also the second sentence should read Travel to locations within 200 miles of Ellsworth is exempt. Motion to amend carried by voice vote with all in favor. Amended resolution also approved by voice vote with all in favor. Resolution Amend Personnel Policy, Article VI, Recruitment, Selection, and Appointment read by Clerk Feuerhelm. Motion to approve by R. Farrell, seconded by R. Rommel. Motion by D. Hines, seconded by R. Farrell to delete the work or in paragraph 2, second sentence to read If the department head and the administrative coordinator. Motion to amend carried by voice vote with all in favor. Amended resolution also approved by voice vote with all in favor. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Ellsworth Township from Primary Agriculture to General Rural Ron & Gladys Shafer. Motion to approve by R. Ruemmele, seconded by B. Schroeder. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Ordinance Transfer of Fairgrounds to the Building Committee read by Clerk Feuerhelm. Motion to approve by J. Kosin, seconded by T. Bengtson. Motion by R. Ruemmele, seconded by J. Kosin to amend paragraph A under Building Committee duties to also exclude buildings at the Recycling Center and Nugget Lake County Park. Amendment approved by voice vote with 13 in favor (D. Truax, L. Peterson, M. Ash, M. Larson, R. Rommel, J. Kucinski, R. Anderson, D. Hines, R. Ruemmele, R. Farrell, J. Kosin, B. Schroeder, T. Bengtson) and 3 (K. Schilling, S. Speerstra, D. Nellessen) opposed. Discussion ensued about pros and cons for this transfer. Motion carried by roll call vote with nine (R. Anderson, R. Ruemmele, J. Kosin, B. Schroeder, T. Bengtson, D. Truax, L. Peterson, M. Larson, R. Rommel) in favor, seven (D. Nellessen, K. Schilling, D. Hines, R. Farrell, M. Ash, S. Speerstra, J. Kucinski) opposed.

2 Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Trimbelle Township form Primary Agriculture to General Rural Randall Thom Rezone read by Clerk Feuerhelm. Action will be postponed until the next meeting. Supervisor J. Kucinski had to leave for another appointment. Ordinance Amend Chapter 40 of the Pierce County Code Authorizing Payment of Claims read by Clerk Feuerhelm. Motion to approve by B. Schroeder, seconded by R. Rommel. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Ordinance Amend Chapter 4-38 of the Pierce County Code Regarding Number of Meetings read by Clerk Feuerhelm. Clerical error in paragraph (b) noted. The word committee should read committees. Motion to approve by R. Ruemmele, seconded by J. Kosin. Motion by K. Schilling, seconded by D. Hines to delete the works in special circumstances in paragraph B. Also, the letter (c) under Renumber (a) (c) should not be stricken, thus reading Renumber (a) (c). Motion to amend carried by voice vote with all in favor. Amended ordinance also approved by voice vote with all in favor. Future Agenda Items: D. Hines spoke on a letter from Corporation Counsel regarding proposed changes to county board rules concerning closed session items and felt that the rules should not be changed to exclude any board members from closed sessions. He also thought that passing legislation on the first reading should only be done for very special circumstances. Other Business: D. Hines questioned a statement in the Annual Report from the Register of Deeds wondering where the $426,400 that her office has collected for records modernization has been distributed. AC M. Schroeder stated that the money goes into the general fund for data processing, land management, surveyor, GIS, mapping, and Register of Deeds purposes. He stated that he has addressed her concerns every year and they are in compliance with the recommendations from the auditor. K. Schilling asked if county board packets could be mailed out earlier. Oak Gove resident Jim Gumbusky stated that he hoped the taxpayers could truly trust their supervisors to vote in the best interest of their constituents. Ralph Schommer suggested the Administrator put out periodic new releases to keep the public better informed about important pending board matters rather than having to wait to find out about them afterwards in the newspaper. Meeting adjourned at 11:16 a.m. by motion of B Schroeder, seconded by J. Kosin. Tuesday May 27, :00 p.m. Meeting called to order by outgoing Chairman Truax at 7:07 p.m. Roll call by County Clerk J. Feuerhelm with 16 supervisors present; D. Nellessen excused. Also attending were Administrative Coordinator M. Schroeder, Corporation Counsel K. Clayton-Ebert, and numerous members of the public. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by all present. Public Comments: Jim Gumbusky from the Town of Oak Grove stated that he was aware of a resolution that came from Door County on the issue of removing the technical colleges from the property tax rolls. He asked if that issue was going to be on a County Board agenda. Administrative Coordinator (AC) Mark Schroeder replied that the County was going to start by putting this item on the June 2003 Finance Committee agenda and it should then proceed to the County board probably a month from now. Mr. Gumbusky added that he was aware of a number of townships in Pierce County that have already signed similar resolutions. Election of Veterans Service Office: Chairman D. Truax stated that the hiring board has recommended Merlin Blaisdell for the Veterans Service Officer but that the County Board must elect this position which includes taking nominations from the floor. Motion by D. Hines, seconded by J. Kosin to nominate Merlin Blaisdell as the Veterans Service Officer. Chair D. Truax called for other nominations; none received. Motion by R. Ruemmele, seconded by B. Schroeder to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot for Merlin Blaisdell. Discussion called for; none followed. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Chair D. Truax congratulated Mr. Blaisdell and welcomed him on board Budget Guidelines: AC M. Schroeder discussed property tax expenditure and revenue trends, the General Fund, and recommendations from the Finance Committee. M. Ash had submitted additional recommendations for the May Proceedings Finance Committee to consider regarding existing programs and services. R. Anderson asked about the sales tax trends. M. Schroeder responded that this revenue remains fairly steady and increases approximately $100,000 per year. The County anticipates sales tax revenue around $1,300,000 next year. R. Schommer from Trenton Township asked about special project costs and interest rates. M. Schroeder stated that special projects are primarily onetime expenditures for start-up costs and capital improvements. He also replied that the $500,000 balance for the Pierce County Office building is the only outstanding County debt and that loan has a 4% interest rate. Curtis Rustad from Hartland Township had questions about the tax levy and felt money would be better spent providing jail inmates with training rather than building jail space. M. Schroeder explained that property taxes could still go up on any given individual property even if the county tax levy remains the same due to the increase in assessed property values and the County is also looking at alternative ways to handle the jail issues. Richard Green from Oak Grove Township questioned who was accountable for knowing how much we owe Pepin County for boarding our prisoners. M. Schroeder stated that there was a bookkeeping error and the Sheriff s Office will take additional steps to make sure that this does not happen again. Jim Reichert from the City of Prescott stated that the taxes keep increasing even though there s nothing to show for it; no new jail, no new school. He stressed that taxes should be for needs only, not wants. Motion by R. Anderson, seconded by R. Ruemmele to hold the county tax levy at the 2003 level. S. Mulhern questioned whether that was a realistic possibility. Motion by R. Ruemmele, seconded by B. Schroeder to amend the motion by including the remaining six recommendations from Finance Committee. D. Hines hoped that the public would realize that in order to lower taxes it will be necessary to cut some of the current programs and services. M. Ash asked how the Highway Department may be affected. M. Schroeder explained how their equipment and services are funded differently than other department but that their county apportionment is subject to reductions just like

3 the others. S. Mulhern asked if the undesignated General Fund balance would only be used for decreased revenue from State cutbacks; R. Ruemmele replied that M. Schroeder had recommended not using those funds for other purposes in order to maintain a bond rating of A2. Motion to amend carried by voice vote with all in favor. Motion to approve as amended carried by voice vote with 15 in favor; one opposed (S. Mulhern.) Committee Reports: R. Farrell stated that Human Services Board is in the final stages of approving their missions and visions statement. They have also approved the first set of office policies for consistency within the Human Service Department. Resolution Calling on the State of WI to Access Available Federal CIP Medicaid Waiver Funds and Ensure a High Quality and Stable Workforce to Care for People with Developmental Disabilities in the Community read by Clerk J. Feuerhelm. Chuck Balzer and Reggie Bicha from Human Services Department provided detailed background information for this resolution. Motion by R. Rommel, seconded by S. Speerstra to suspend the rules and approve on first reading. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Motion to approve resolution by S. Mulhern, seconded by R. Farrell. Motion approved by voice vote with all in favor. Resolution Transfer of Funds from the General Fund to 2002 Prisoner Boarding Account read by Clerk J. Feuerhelm. No action taken. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Clifton Township from Primary Agriculture to General Rural Flexible 8 Gerald Filkins read by Clerk J. Feuerhelm. No action taken. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Trimbelle Township from Primary Agriculture to Agriculture Residential Douglas Kirchner read by Clerk J. Feuerhelm. No action taken. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Trimbelle Township from Industrial to Primary Agriculture Edward Melstrom read by Clerk J. Feuerhelm. No action taken. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Trenton Township from General Rural Flexible to Rural residential 20 William Schroeder read by Clerk J. Feuerhelm. No action taken. ORDINANCES FOR SECOND CONSIDERATION Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Trimbelle Township from Primary Agriculture to General Rural Randall Thom Rezone. Motion to approve by R. Ruemmele, seconded by B. Schroeder. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Appointments: Chair D. Truax announced a vacancy on the Revolving Loan Fund Committee if anyone has a recommendation for appointment. Chair D. Truax appointed Caralynn Hodgson as Public Health Officer. Meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m. by motion of B. Schroeder, seconded by J. Kosin. Tuesday June 24, :00 p.m. Meeting called to order by Chairman Truax at 7:02 p.m. Roll call by County Clerk J. Feuerhelm with 15 supervisors present; K. Schilling and R. Ruemmele excused. Also attending were Administrative Coordinator M. Schroeder, Corporation Counsel K. Clayton-Ebert, and numerous Pierce County citizens. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by all present. Public Comments: Mary Cain from Village of Ellsworth requested more information regarding Resolutions and Chair D. Truax stated they would be explained when those items come on the agenda. Land Management Committee: Jeff Holst re-elected to a three year term by motion of B. Schroeder, seconded by J. Kosin. No further nominations presented. Motion by R. Anderson, seconded by L. Peterson to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot for Jeff Holst. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Committee Reports: L. Peterson stated he had received a thank you card from the Brand family for the County s support with the Community Development Block Grant that enabled them to expend their business. D. Truax announced an upcoming meeting between county and municipal government officials at the Ellsworth High School on June 30 th to explore ways to save money and consolidate services. June Proceedings Resolution Authorize General Obligation Bonds in an Amount Not to Exceed $5,100,000. AC M. Schroeder explained that the reason this came about so quickly is due to the State Legislature placing a three-year freeze on local property taxes. Pierce County, in addition to several other counties, are adopting a resolution prior to the July 1 st deadline that will allow them some capacity to borrow. Pierce County has very little outstanding debt levy and this would give the county an option to have up to $5,000,000 available if necessary for the next five years. Any possibility of actually using that money would have to be brought before the board and approved by ¾ members of the board. Adoption requested at first reading. Motion by R. Rommel, seconded by B. Schroeder to suspend the rules and adopt at first reading. Jim Gumbusky form Oak Grove and Mary Cain from Village of Ellsworth stressed the importance of having two readings before passing legislation and requested better information be provided to the public so there is a greater understanding of what is being proposed. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Motion to approve resolution by S. Mulhern, seconded by L. Peterson. Resolution Authorize General Obligation Refunding Bonds in an Amount Not to Exceed $550,000. Adoption requested at first reading. Motion by B. Schroeder, seconded by S. Speerstra to suspend the rules and adopt at first reading. AC M. Schroeder explained that this is to pay off the existing bonds that were issued at a higher interest rate

4 and reissue them at the current lower rate. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Motion to approve resolution by B. Schroeder, seconded by J. Kosin. Motion carried by roll call vote with all in favor. RESOLUTIONS FOR SECOND CONSIDERATION Resolution Transfer of Funds from the General Fund to 2002 Prisoner Boarding Account. Motion to approve by L. Peterson, seconded by T. Bengtson. R. Anderson hoped that there are now better accounting procedures in place so this does not happen again. Motion carried by roll call vote with all in favor. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Town of Trimbelle from Primary Agriculture to Agricultural Residential Rasmussen. First reading by Clerk Feuerhelm, no action taken. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Town of Clifton from Primary Agriculture to General Rural Flexible 8 P. Most. First reading by Clerk Feuerhelm, no action taken. M. Ash gave several reasons why she felt that this rezone was inconsistent with the County s land use plan and goes against the goal of preserving prime agricultural lands. B. Schroeder commented that the land use plan is a general recommendation but flexibility is needed for individual considerations. J. Kucinski agreed with M. Ash that the plan should be enforced as it was created to be. J. Kosin felt that rezone options should be available for everyone; J. Kucinski countered that the laws of the land are to be applied as ordered and not changed repeatedly. D. Hines asked and B. Schroeder explained about the zoning classification of the surrounding parcels. Landowner Phil Most felt that he should have the right to use his land as he chooses. He stated that he was told in 1998 that he would not have any problem getting it rezoned if he wanted to do so. John Lenarz from Spring Valley felt that landowners should be able to have rezones granted but also agreed with Supervisor Ash that more needs to be done to maintain plan consistency. M. Ash stated that the comprehensive land use plan was established at the discretion and recommendation of the towns and that changing those zoning laws is becoming too routine. She also had researched that indicated this type of rezoning classification is more costly to the County. Ordinance Amend Secs and of the Pierce County Code Zoning Ordinance Relating to Conditional Use Permits for Non-Conforming Structures. Motion by J. Kucinski, seconded by D. Hines to suspend the rules and waive the reading of this lengthy ordinance. First consideration, no action taken. Ordinance Amend Secs of the Pierce County Code Zoning Ordinance Relating to Temporary Uses. First reading by clerk Feuerhelm, no action taken. AC M. Schroeder provided basic information on this ordinance. ORDINANCES FOR SECOND CONSIDERATION Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Town of Clifton from Primary Agriculture to General Rural Flexible 8 G. Filkins. Motion to approve by B. Schroeder, seconded by L. Peterson. M. Ash and J. Kucinski felt that is another example of not following the comprehensive land use plan recommendations. L. Peterson felt that if the township approved the rezone that the county should too. Motion carried by voice vote with 13 in favor, two (M. Ash, J. Kucinski) opposed. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Town of Trimbelle from Primary Agriculture to Agriculture Residential D. Kirchner. Motion to approve by B. Schroeder, seconded by M. Larson. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Town of Trimbelle from Industrial to Primary Agriculture E. Melstrom. Motion to approve by B. Schroeder, seconded by L. Peterson. J. Kucinski questioned the reason for the rezone. Citizen Melanie Tomforde stated that they have cleaned up the junk yard and plan to live on the property. The lending agency offered them a better interest rate if the property was rezoned. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Town of Trenton from General Rural Flexible to Rural Residential 20 W. Schroeder. Motion to approve by L. Peterson, seconded by M. Larson. Motion carried by voice vote with 14 in favor, B. Schroeder abstained. Appointments: Chair D. Truax announced that he had appointed Richard O Connell to the Revolving Loan Fund Committee and that they need another person for the Land Management Committee; preferably from the eastern part of the County as there is little representation there. Future Agenda Items: Chair D. Truax announced that there is a new computer policy to be presented at the next meeting as well as a resolution regarding the funding of the local technical college. Meeting adjourned at 8:07 p.m. by motion of B. Schroeder, seconded by J. Kosin. Tuesday July 22, :00 p.m. Meeting called to order by Chairman Truax at 7:01 p.m. Roll call by County Clerk J. Feuerhelm with 15 supervisors present; R. Ruemmele excused, M. Larson arriving at 7:12 p.m. (16 members present for remainder of meeting.) Also attending were Administrative Coordinator M. Schroeder, Corporation Counsel K. Clayton-Ebert, and numerous members of the public. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by all present. July Proceedings the overtime procedures. Gene Schommer from Oak Grove Township spoke out in favor of the upcoming rezone request in Clifton Township for the Most property. Farmland Preservation Agreement for O & M Hendrickson Family Trust, Spring Lake Township approved by motion of B. Schroeder, seconded by J. Kosin. Public Comments: Curtis Rustad from Hartland Township spoke against the county borrowing money and asked about 2004 Budget Preparations Report given by AC M. Schroeder. He and Finance Director, J. Brickner

5 have met with all department heads to review their program priorities, proposed expenditures, and projected revenue. Various other aspects affecting the budget were also discussed. Other discussion on contracting more of the highway projects and prisoner boarding issues. He also clarified that the county did not actually borrow any money last month as stated by Curtis Rustad. The resolution that was passed was only giving the county the option to borrow if the need arose. Committee Reports: D. Truax stated that Finance Committee approved a survey regarding the non-represented employee s salaries. This is being distributed to all board members and non-reps; due in Admin Office by Aug. 8. Resolution On-line Access Fees for Register of Deeds Records. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm. Motion by S. Mulhern, seconded by R. Farrell to suspend the rules and adopt on first reading. Voice vote with all in favor. R. Farrell gave reasons for the request to pass on first reading. Motion by S. Speerstra, seconded by R. Farrell to approve. Voice vote with all in favor. Resolution Request Reform of Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) Practices and Funding Policies. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken. M. Ash requested that the second paragraph be reworded as Pierce County residents receive the same level of service from CVTC as anyone else would, not less. D. Truax concurred and felt it could be amended at second reading. Resolution Create Data Processing Policies Related to Computer Use and Information Systems. Motion by B. Schroeder, seconded by S. Speerstra to forego the reading of this lengthy resolution. No further action taken. Resolution Revise PTO Policy Regarding PTO Transfer at Retirement. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken. Resolution Add Domestic Relations Orders to Nationwide Deferred Compensation Plan. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken. Resolution Authorize the Pierce County Sheriff s Dept. to Apply for Federal Inter-Operability Grant. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm with adoption requested. Lieutenant M. Knoll and John Verhein, Chief Engineer from Wisconsin State Patrol answered questions from board members about how the grant will greatly enhance the capabilities to communicate with neighboring law enforcement agencies. Motion by S. Speerstra, seconded by M. Larson to suspend the rules and adopt at first reading. Motion by L. Peterson, seconded by T. Bengtson to approve. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Resolution Authorize Purchase of Property Gove Street, Village of Ellsworth. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken. Mary Cain, resident at 364 W. Grove Street requested that the board not purchase the property next door to them at 344 W. Grove Street as it will cause their property value to plummet as they become the lone residential home sandwiched between county-owned property. She questioned why the county has never publicly stated what they intend to do with all this property they want to buy or if the Village of Ellsworth will rezone it for their needs. She felt that if the county needs building space that they should use the 80 acres they already purchased on the north side of the village. She also asked why the residents have not been informed of these intentions especially when these matters are not on the published agendas. Curtis Rustad stated he had spoken with several county residents and he hadn t heard anyone say that they felt it was right to purchase that residential property. Chuck Buckle, resident at 328 W. Grove St. asked for a breakdown concerning the acquisition of the properties on W. Grove Street and what the plan is for them. AC M. Schroeder provided a map showing the location of the various properties which are adjacent to the old highway shop and the fairgrounds. D. Truax stated it would be logical to plan for the future and acquire those properties as they become available even if there are no specific purposes for them at this time. Mr. Buckle stated that there are actually five other homes in the section that they are looking at and wondered why the county would spend money to purchase them without knowing if the village would change the zoning on them. He added that it appears that the county is continuing to purchase land without having any specific plans in place. He also questioned if anyone had looked into the environmental impact issues that large buildings or parking lots will create for the remaining residential areas. Ralph Schommer, Trenton Township resident questioned the wisdom of leap-frogging various properties for acquisition and the rationale of condemnation procedures under Chapter 32 of Wisconsin Statutes. D. Hines stated that he has been contacted by several village trustees who were not in favor of rezoning the properties in question. He also felt that condemnation procedures are not routinely accepted for purposes other than transportation needs so it s not guaranteed to be granted. R. Anderson felt that we should not be acquiring more property just because it s there without having a specific plan for it. Mike Johnson, owner of 344 W. Grove St. felt it wasn t right that he had to wait another month to find out if the county was going to agree to the purchase and hoped that he could get an answer tonight. Mr. Johnson was asked if they had an offer on another property that was contingent upon this sale or if he had received any earnest money for this property; he stated no. S. Mulhern felt that if the county is willing to allow farmers the right to rezone their properties that they should not prevent Mr. Johnson from selling his. Others felt that he was not being prevented from selling, just that the county was purchasing property without a specific plan developed for it. AC M. Schroeder gave background info on why the expansion project on the 80 acres the county already owns was turned down. The majority of board members felt it would be best to expand in closer proximity to the courthouse and existing County buildings. As the county proceeds with a specific plan the adjacent property owners ought to be engaged in that process. He felt it was prudent to acquire the properties first from willing sellers so that the county doesn t have to proceed with imminent domain to acquire them later. Ralph Schommer stated that the properties from non-willing sellers as evidenced by the Finance Committee interviewing companies that will proceed to acquire them by imminent domain. B. Schroeder countered that Greg Amann was contacted two years ago about selling his property and only when negotiations broke down did they start looking into imminent domain acquisition. He felt the county would never resort to acquiring the Cain property through imminent domain and it should be considered more valuable because the county wants it. Kenny Manfred, trustee for Village of Ellsworth asked why the county did not come to them for a rezone before making these property purchases. AC M. Schroeder stated that when the first property was advertised for sale he had spoken with several village officials and staff members to determine if the village had any plans that would contradict the county from acquiring and rezoning those properties. When asked by Mr. Manfred and D. Hines who at the village hall had told him this, he chose not to comment. Motion by B. Schroder, seconded by L. Peterson to suspend the rules and adopt on first reading. Julie Buckle spoke out against passing such important legislation on the first reading and asked if the county would guarantee the Cains that they

6 would not take their home by imminent domain. J. Kucinski stated that there would be no guarantees but felt that as a rule, legislation should not be passed on the first reading unless it is an emergency situation or had crucial time constraints. Motion to suspend rules and adopt on first reading defeated by roll call vote with 11 no votes (D. Hines, R. Farrell, D. Truax, M. Ash, S. Mulhern, S. Speerstra, R. Rommel, J. Kucinski, D. Nellessen, K. Schilling, R. Anderson) to 5 yes votes (J. Kosin, B. Schroeder, T. Bengtson, L. Peterson, M. Larson). Resolution Authorize the Submittal of a State Grant Application and the Subsequent Appropriation of County Funds for Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program for Pierce County. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm. Motion by J. Kosin, seconded by B. Schroeder to suspend the rules and adopt on first reading due to a submission deadline of August 1st. Voice vote with all in favor. Motion by B. Schroeder, seconded by J. Kosin to adopt. Voice vote with all in favor. Ordinance Amend Sec of the Pierce County Code Regarding Human Services Board. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken. Ordinance Amend Sec of the Pierce County Code Regarding Information Services Committee. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Town of Martell from Primary Agriculture to Industrial Wiff Farms. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken. ORDINANCES FOR SECOND CONSIDERATION Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Town of Trimbelle from Primary Agriculture to Agricultural Residential Rasmussen. Motion to approve by B. Schroeder, seconded by M. Larson. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Town of Clifton from Primary Agriculture to General Rural Flexible 8 P. Most. Motion to approve by B. Schroeder, seconded by L. Peterson. M. Ash stated she had spoken with Land Management Director Andy Pichotta and has a better understanding of the county zoning plan however, she still felt that the county should be following it more consistently. J. Kucinski concurred that most of these rezones violate the intention of the zoning plan and is detrimental to the county s goal to maintain prime agriculture lands. He felt that rezones were acceptable if they fell within the allowable plan uses as originally designated. Mrs. Most explained that they do not have any intention to develop their land but want to guarantee that option for the future. M. Larson felt that since all of the surrounding area was zoned Rural Flexible 8 and is being developed that to prevent this rezone request would cause it to become spot zoning. Mr. Most stated that he was told that he would be allowed to rezone his property if he went through the proper procedures and he felt that he has done so. Motion carried by roll call vote with 14 in favor, M. Ash and J. Kucinski opposed. M. Ash requested to have something on the next agenda regarding clarification for towns as to which rezones are allowed under the existing plan rules. Ordinance Amend Secs and of the Pierce County Code Zoning Ordinance Relating to Conditional Use Permits for Non-Conforming Structures. Motion to approve by B. Schroeder, seconded by L. Peterson. J. Kucinski questioned why the county would pass legislation to allow for non-conforming structures; he d thought that the county was trying to prohibit those. Andy Pichotta explained why Land Management felt it would be useful to have the ability to allow for some leeway in certain circumstances. Motion carried by voice vote with 15 in favor, J. Kucinski opposed. Ordinance Amend Sec of the Pierce County Code Zoning Ordinance Relating to Temporary Uses. Motion to approve by B. Schroeder, seconded by M. Larson. Andy Pichotta explained how this relates only to temporary concrete or asphalt batch plants. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Other Business: B. Schroeder reminded everyone of the Pierce County fair on Aug. 7-10; J. Kosin added that they need volunteers to help out. Meeting adjourned at 9:37 p.m. by motion of B. Schroeder, seconded by J. Kosin. Tuesday August 26, :00 p.m. Meeting called to order by Chair Truax at 7:01 p.m. Roll call by County Clerk J. Feuerhelm with all supervisors present. Also attending were Administrative Coordinator M. Schroeder, Corporation Counsel K. Clayton-Ebert, and several members of the public. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by all present. Public Comments: Ralph Schommer from Trenton Township requested status of the $4 million Trumpeter Valley lawsuit involving the Land Management Committee, stating that three courts have rules against the county. Corporation Counsel K. Clayton-Ebert said that she could not comment as action is still pending. D. Nellessen felt that the Corporation Counsel should resign if she provided the legal counsel that put the county in this situation. Motion by R. Ruemmele, seconded by L. Peterson to nominate Patrick Harrington to Land Management Committee. No further nominations presented. Motion by R. Ruemmele, seconded by S. Speerstra to close August Proceedings nominations and cast a unanimous ballot for Mr. Harrington. Voice vote with all in favor. Discussion on a resolution form Bob Ziegelbauer, 25 th Assembly District, regarding appointment of county constitutional officials. R. Truax felt that this would not improve on the selection of constitutional offices but that it should be discussed by the county board. R. Anderson strongly disagreed with this proposal. B. Schroeder supported it as a means to get more qualified people to head those departments. S. Speerstra and J. Kosin felt that they should remain elected positions decided upon by the resident of Pierce County. Jim Gumbusky from Oak Grove Township agreed the election procedure should be left as is; that taking the voting rights away from the citizens would not be an improvement. Motion by S. Mulhern to postpone indefinitely any action of the proposed resolution, seconded by M. Ash. J. Kucinski questioned the need to postpone were different ideas or information to be presented? Ralph Schommer stated since Mr. Ziegelbauer was seeking support on his resolution that the board should take action tonight. S. Mulhern and

7 M. Ash withdrew their motion to postpone. Motion by D. Nellessen, seconded by S. Speerstra to keep things the way they are with electing the constitutional officers. Motion carried with 15 supervisors in favor, B. Schroeder opposed. Legislation will be drawn up for the next meeting affirming this position and it will be forwarded to the State. Committee Reports: Opal Darr from Solid Waste Management Board stated there will be a Clean Sweep program on September 20 th 8am to noon. R. Anderson reported on the Governor s Council on Highway Safety and the alarming transportation-related death rate. Ralph Schommer expressed concern about bicyclists riding on the wrong (left) side of the road. R. Truax encouraged supervisors to attend the WCA Annual Conference on September and to participate in the various steering committees. Resolution Authorize Pierce County Park Superintendent to Apply for Wisconsin Waterways Commission Financial Assistance. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken Resolution Participation in Mutual Aid Agreement for Emergency Public Health Preparedness. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken. RESOLUTIONS FOR SECOND CONSIDERATION Resolution On-line Access Fees for Register of Deeds Records. Motion to approve by R. Ruemmele, seconded by R. Anderson. Voice vote with all in favor. Resolution Requesting Reform of Chippewa Valley Technical College (DVTC) Practices and Funding Policies. R. Truax explained the substituted resolution they have before them is a revision of the original. Motion by S. Mulhern to accept substitutions, seconded by B. Schroeder. M. Ash provided information about a legislative task force that is looking into this very issue and questioned the need to go forward with this resolution. Jim Gumbuski stated he had spoken with others who have been involved with this issue and the task force wants input from the counties as how to proceed. Voice vote to approve and submit the revised resolution with 14 in favor, 3 (Ash, Speerstra, Kucinski) opposed. Resolution Create Data Processing Policies Related to Computer Use and Information Systems. Motion to approve by L. Peterson, seconded by B. Schroeder. Voice vote with all in favor. Resolution Revise PTO Policy Regarding PTO Transfer at Retirement. Motion to approve by R. Ruemmele, seconded by B. Schroeder. Motion carried by roll call vote with all in favor. Resolution Add Domestic Relations Orders to Nationwide Deferred Compensation Plan. Motion to approve by R. Rommel, seconded by S. Speerstra. Voice vote with all in favor. Resolution Authorize Purchase of Property 344 W. Grove St., Village of Ellsworth. Motion to approve by R. Ruemmele, seconded by B. Schroeder. D. Hines felt since there is no definite plan in place for this property that the county should not be purchasing any. Chuck Buckle, neighbor to the property asked that the county slow down and get their plans in order before continuing to acquire more land. He also hoped that after the county purchases these places that they aren t going to just sit empty and deteriorate thereby reducing the value of the neighborhood for the adjacent owners. Curtis Rustad from Hartland Township stated that it didn t make sense to keep expanding county government. M. Larson felt that it is in the best interest to plan for the future by acquiring the land closer to the courthouse. They have no imminent building plans in place; this is just preparing for the future. Curtis Rustad stated the county should be looking at laying people off instead of expanding. R. Ruemmele felt that debate of an issue should be limited to county board participation once a motion has been entertained; public participation should no longer be accepted after that point. S. Speerstra called for the question. Motion approved by roll call vote with 16 in favor, D. Hines opposed. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Town of Oak Grove from General Rural Flex-8 to Rural Residential 12 Holst/Hoscheit. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken. Ordinance Amend Chapter 129 of the Pierce County Code Regarding Fraudulent Checks. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken. Ordinance Rezone a Parcel of Land in Hartland Township from Primary Agriculture to General Rural Flexible Alan & Lisa Freier. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken. Ordinance Comprehensive Zoning Map amendment for Town of Ellsworth. First reading by Clerk J. Feuerhelm, no action taken. RESOLUTIONS FOR SECOND CONSIDERATION Ordinance Amend Sec of the Pierce County Code Regarding Human Services Board. Motion to approve by R. Farrell, seconded by R. Rommel. Voice vote with all in favor. Ordinance Amend Sec of the Pierce County Code regarding Information Services Committee. Motion to approve by R. Rommel, seconded by R. Farrell. Voice vote with all in favor. Ordinance Rezoning a Parcel of Land in Town of Martell from Primary Agriculture to Industrial Wiff Farms. Motion to approve by R. Anderson, seconded by D. Nellessen. Motion carried by voice vote with 16 in favor, R. Ruemmele abstained. Appointments: Brock Rasmussen re-appointed by Chair Truax to Ethics Board for term of through Motion by S. Mulhern, seconded by M. Ash to approve appointment. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Opal Darr and Sandra Weix re-appointed by Chair Truax to Solid Waste Management Board for term through Motion by R. Anderson, seconded by D. Hines to approve. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Future Agenda Items: AC M. Schroeder announced that the department heads should be presenting their budgets to their standing committees next month and will be presented for first reading at the October board meeting. Meeting adjourned at 7:59 p.m. by motion of B. Schroeder, seconded by S. Speerstra.

8 Tuesday August 24, :00 p.m. Meeting called to order by Chair Truax at 7:01 p.m. Roll call by County Clerk J. Feuerhelm with all supervisors present. Also attending were Administrative Coordinator M. Schroeder, Assistant Corporation Counsel B. Lawrence, and several county department supervisors, and members of the public. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag by all present. Public Comments: Ralph Schommer, Trenton Township stated the River Falls Journal had a very lengthy report from the River Falls city administrator concerning events involving the city. When he attended the last county Finance Committee meeting the administrator did not have anything to report. The committee meeting was in closed session for 1 hour and 45 minutes regarding the $4 million Trumpeter Valley lawsuit against the county and he felt that the county board and the public deserves a status report on that matter. Curtis Rustad, Hartland Township stated that at the August County Board meeting he was told there wouldn t be any public comment on resolutions once they were before the board. R. Ruemmele stated that it would be out of order for the public to debate an issue once the board has taken action on it. D. Truax clarified that the public has the opportunity to speak on any issue on the agenda but once the motion is on the floor and it has a second that then it can only be debated by the board. Mr. Rustad closed by saying that taxpayers are not for expansions, hiring, or pay raises and he realizes that there are a lot of good people on the board working for the senior citizens. Amendment to the Town of River Falls Zoning Ordinance Motion by R. Ruemmele to waive the reading, seconded by J. Kucinski. Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Motion by R. Ruemmele, seconded by L. Peterson that the county supports the proposed amendment to the Town of River Falls Zoning Ordinance Motion carried by voice vote with all in favor. Committee Reports: J. Kosin reported that the recycling Facility s conversion from source separated to a two-stream facility is nearly complete. The facility has had recyclable production highs for the last two months. The Clean Sweep program on September 20 th was a huge success, with approximately 90 vehicles an hour going through for about 4 hours. There was disposal of 12,000 pounds of latex paint, 8500 pounds of batteries, 700 gallons of waste oil, 4 55-gallon drums of oil filters, numerous tires, and computer components. He suggested that all county board members go and look around the revamped facility. D. Truax reported on the WCA Convention. He attended some break-out sessions, one in particular on counties working together and with townships for consolidating services. He will provide a full report on each of the sessions at a later time. AC M. Schroeder introduced new Assistant Corporation Counsel Brad Lawrence. Resolution Oppose Amendement to the WI Constitution Relating to Appointment of Elected Officials. First reading by Clerk J. September Proceedings Feuerhlem. Comments by Neil Gulbranson, Chief Deputy at the Sheriff s Department. Stated that the non-represented employees are asking for supervisors support on resolutions and He summarized the non-represented duties and noted differences between the unions and the non-represented employees concerning raises and longevity. He asked that they be treated the same as the unions, not better but not any worse. He stated that the non-reps appreciated the chance to take part in the DMG survey and hope updating the plan is a consideration. Jim Gumbski, Oak Grove Township stated that it appears that these are more detailed job descriptions than he realized, however those things are the requirements of the job. If someone takes the job they should recognize the expectations. He questioned whether the increase was in line with what is going on in the economy and the public sector. Raises and step increases should be based on merit, not given out automatically. Scott Mulhern stated that he did some research and talked to some of the managers. He made comparisons between how non-represented supervisors and union personnel are compensated for over-time and longevity. He knows of a non-represented employee who saved the county over $60,000 in one year for restructuring a contract with one of the county s vendors. He went on to say that the Children, Youth and Families fund in 2000 was over $100,000 to send 25 kids to correctional facilities for over 600 days. In 2001; $33,000 for 8 kids for 180 days. In 2002; $0, 0 kids, 0 days. This year so far; $0, 0 kids, 0 days. The county board should be informed of these good examples. John Kucinski felt more information should be available recommending why the board should vote one way or the other. He also thought that if the board was better informed before they voted that they wouldn t have to take multiple actions on the same issue. The public could then have more confidence that the board is making knowledgeable decisions. R. Ruemmele stated that the original decision from Finance Committee considered the non-represented pay at 3.5%. It was then reduced to 2.5% and presented to the County Board. County Board amended it to 1% which passed on a vote of 8-7. He was absent that night and felt that had he been there the 1% would not have passed. He thought that decision was wrong and he supported the Administrator s recommendations that establish fairness as the Finance Committee had intended. He felt the board should not try to balance the budget on the backs of 51 or 52 employees that are not represented by the unions. The merit system is not included in the DMG Matrix. It s a pass or fail; either they get a step or they don t. In the hiring of non represented employees the first 5 steps often don t even apply. The county often has to offer the most qualified candidate 5-10% more than what their replacement was making. R. Schommer stated that the procedure for the conduct of these meetings requires that the committee chairperson sponsoring the resolution give the rational for that legislation. He added that that information is not presented very often. J. Kosin questioned how many non-represented employees fail their annual reviews. M. Schroeder responded that there were a couple in D. Hines questioned where the recommendations for these resolutions originated. He stated he had not read any recommendation from board members nor was there discussion from the Finance Committee prior to the resolution being presented. It was already in a packet brought forward to the committee. M. Schroeder explained that the first resolution