Monday, May 20, 2013
Friday, May 17, 2013
Nostalgia: School Board--4 Period Day---audio transcript
School Board--7-16-2007---Audio transcript of report to the board on the 4 Period Day Study. 40 minutes.
MP3 File
MP3 File
Nostalgia: Audio; 2009 School Board Finance Report: Deficit
Audio: Evansville School District: July 20, 2009. Deb Olsen reports on prelim numbers, final number on enrollment finale in Sept but district faces deficit to come out of fund balance.
MP3 File
MP3 File
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Evansville Observer: 2007:Classic Observer: School Board--2-2007
Evansville Observer: 2007:Classic Observer: School Board--2-2007: School Board Forum: February 2007: "On Focus--What is important and What is NOT. 4K and Half Day Kindergarten are settled issues. Go...
Evansville Observer: Nostalgia: November 2006: 4K: Jamie Fellows Speaks...
Evansville Observer: Nostalgia: November 2006: 4K: Jamie Fellows Speaks...: Current Daycare providers serve 142 childrens of possible 150 in Evansville. 4K proposal is duplication of services. Download File
Chasin the News : " Let them talk"
School Referendum was discussed at Monday night meeting. Let them talk.
A possible school referendum was discussed at the Monday night school board meeting. At this point they are just talking. Let them talk.
I think some one should point out to Jerry Roth the reason Heidi Carvin never pursued this was because she knew it was not going to pass. He would be wise to be very careful how he approaches this subject.
When the R word was first mentioned several weeks ago I gave the reasons for why I would vote yes . But there are just as many reasons I would vote no.
Kathy Swanson at Monday nights board meeting pointed out residents are not going to likely vote for this referendum if they do not feel the district has done every thing they can to avoid a referendum. The truth is . They have not. They do need to cut teachers do to declining enrollment.
IF they cut out the block schedule at the Junior High it will save money. It is also better for students as they need to have math , science and reading daily. Not every 2nd to 3rd day.
They do not get it daily with the block schedule.
So the district needs to prove it self. That they has been responsible and done every thing it can. At this point they have not. Jerry Roth should probably not compare the fact that Albany and Brodhead both passed referendums because that is just going to make people look and see Brodhead and Albany also pay considerably lower taxes already. They could afford a referendum far easier than Evansville.
HE would also be very wise to NOT drag 4k in as part of this referendum. There has always been more opposition to 4k than for it in Evansville. Trying to tie the two together in this referendum if there is one could kill it before it ever starts.
We are near the top of the list for amount paid in school taxes for the county. Taxes will go up again this year because of the school and yes of the course that the city just keeps spending and has brought absolutely no industry into Evansville in years.
SO LET THEM talk. That is all it. BUT if they are going to send out surveys. SEND them to all not choice hand-picked homes.
IF they decide to go ahead they will have an up hill battle..
Mailbag: Vinehout re WEDA:
Audit Hearing: WEDC Board Changes Key to Reform
“There’s a heck of a lot of things they didn’t tell me when I signed on,” admitted the chief of the Governor’s lead jobs agency during a recent hearing before the Joint Committee on Audit.
Reed Hall, CEO of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), spent several hours grilled by Audit Committee members. He agreed troubles existed but insisted WEDC was on a new track with plans to correct problems. Later in the hearing two lawmakers with experience as business executives provided solutions.
“I voted for WEDC and thought it was a good idea,” said Senator Tim Cullen, a former insurance executive. “Taking the best practices of the private sector and using them in WEDC was a good idea.”
But what was exposed in a recent audit of WEDC was the worst, not the best, of any business. The agency was run without basic managerial processes in place, without policies, without oversight of delinquent loans or consistency in loan or grants awards, without a clear budget or consistent accounting practices.
Accounting records couldn’t be reconciled to the point that the year-end financial report of the state of Wisconsin included only an estimate of the agency’s expenses.
And there was no evidence to support claims of tens of thousands of jobs created.
State law requires jobs be independently and annually verified through a sample of records. The public must know if jobs ‘promised’ by companies are actually created. Auditors determined this never happened. In more half of the company awards made, the business never even filed required reports.
State law also lays out a process to ensure dollars go to programs whose effectiveness can be measured. Because the agency failed to follow the law auditors were unable to determine if any program was effective in creating jobs.
For example, laws require WEDC to establish goals and expected results for each program. Reports should then be compared with expectations so lawmakers can make proper future funding decisions based on actual program outcomes.
WEDC failed to even identify expected results for a third of all programs it administers; let alone whether companies achieved expected results. Without expected results or company required reports detailing compliance it was impossible to determine if any program met its intended purpose.
WEDC awarded over $60 million in loans and grants and over $100 million in tax credits. They supervised local government in the sale of almost $350 million in bonds for projects.
But they kept members of the WEDC Board in the dark about inadequacies in oversight, internal processes and compliance with the law.
“The Board is toothless,” testified Board member and Assembly Minority Leader Peter Barca. “The Governor loves to control everything.”
“The Board must make the hiring decisions,” said Barca. “I’ve never served on a Board that does not hold the CEO accountable. They [WEDC executives] are free to ignore anything the Board says.”
Lawmakers Barca and Cullen recommended the Board be restructured and empowered. Audit and Finance committees be established and meet bimonthly, committee chairs and a lead director be created; committee chairs should set their own agendas; board members should serve for fixed terms.
Barca concluded with an ominous observation, “Key staff people are still misleading this committee, even today…. To this day they go around obfuscating jobs created, what role did they play to retain them?”
The answer is unclear and not auditable. With no budget, no company reports in over half of cases reviewed and no program expectations for a third of programs, one might think lawmakers shouldn’t increase WEDC’s funding.
But that’s exactly what happened in the Joint Committee on Finance only hours after the conclusion of the Audit Committee hearing.
Law requires the co-chairs of Finance to serve on the Audit Committee to ensure audit findings are reflected in budget decisions. Neither co-chair attended the Audit hearing. None of the recommendations on board changes were included in the Finance Committee action.
Rather than rush to create the appearance of a problem solved, legislative leaders should heed the advice offered the Audit Committee and create a board that bulldogs WEDC management into complying with the law. It’s the board’s responsibility; it’s time they were given the authority.
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Sen.Vinehout@legis.wisconsin.gov State Capitol Room 316 South - P.O. Box 7882, Madison, WI 53707-7882 Toll Free: (877) 763-6636 or
(608) 267-2871
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Nostalgia: 2007: Mr.Pierick speaks on 4K
MONDAY, JULY 16, 2007
Nostalgia: Jan 2007: Mr. Pierick Speaks on 4K------
(Ed. note; Mr. Larson of the Evansville School Board asked that 4K be placed as a board goal for the upcoming school year, or at least a review of it. I have reprinted Mr. Michael Pierick's comments about 4k at the time of the recent defeat of this proposal. It was the second consideration of 4K in one year. Mr. Larson is coming up for reelection in April of 2008.)
"I have a subjective bias about preschool, and I personally believe that there are benefits to 4-year-old kindergarten. Both of my sons attended preschool, and my opinion is based upon the positive learning experience that they had.
However, I have very strong reservations about going forward with this program, and even about going ahead with a pilot program. If I were to vote today, I would vote not to continue. In fact, I question why we are investing so many District resources and so much planning time on something that appears less than fully compelling.
My reservations are varied.
I don’t see any widely based community support for 4-year-old kindergarten, and there were more comments at the public hearing opposed to this program than in favor.
This was initially presented as a program that would benefit and be supported by the existing providers of 4-year-old preschool in the District, but most of those providers who came to the public hearing spoke against it.
The State legislative task force on this topic was presented a few days ago. The task force admitted that it did not vote on the recommendations. Regardless of the recommendations, there is a statement in the report that is unlikely to be refuted soon by anyone: “in our current limited resource setting, increased funding for 4 year old kindergarten programs is not likely, and would only be found at the expense of another education program.â€
We have a facilities consulting firm, Plunkett Raysich Architects, which has given us some preliminary analysis of our facilities. According to Plunkett Raysich, we already have a need for three additional rooms to serve our elementary school population, and will need another by 2011 – in just four years. We are currently at the level of classrooms that we need to serve our intermediate school population, but will need three more rooms in four years. We now have the number of core curriculum rooms needed to serve our middle school population – not the best facility, only the right number of core curriculum rooms -- but we will need five additional classrooms in four years. And we will need one more classroom in the high school designed just five years ago. Altogether, this means we need to add about 13 classrooms in four years. The preliminary report also talks about numerous facility deficiencies in the three older buildings – some of them major deficiencies -- and even a few facility deficiencies in the new high school.
The Evansville Community School District pays about two million dollars per year for construction debt. Most of that is the debt on the high school construction, which won’t be paid off for another 15 years. The rest is debt from 1992 construction to be paid off in 2012. That construction debt represents about a third of our property tax levy, two million of the six million dollars levied.
However we go about adding some 13 classrooms and correcting some major deficiencies in our facilities, it is going to cost us some major money. And the only way we are going to get that money is by passing a referendum. My guess is that’s not politically doable until 2012, when the 1992 debt is fully paid.
I believe that the Evansville community will support this District when we go to them and demonstrate our need for additional classrooms in order to teach additional children who have moved to the district or been born in the district. But I very much doubt that the community will support us if we increase the number of students in our buildings by adding 4 year olds over the next few years, and then turn around and say it’s too crowded.
I think we need to stop planning for any 4 year old program that will place additional children in our school buildings. I think this Board needs to give a strong message about this now, so that valuable administrator and staff time can be spent on other important curriculum and planning endeavors."
Evansville Committee of the Whole Meets Saturday
Common Council
Special Meeting as Committee of the Whole
Saturday, May 18, 2013, 8:00 a.m.
Heights at Evansville Manor, 201 N. Fourth Street, Evansville, WI
Agenda
1. Call to order.
2. Roll call.
3. Approval of agenda.
4. Motion to defer the reading of the minutes of the May 14, 2013 regular meeting to the next regular meeting.
5. Civility reminder.
6. Citizen appearances.
7. Basics. (5 minutes)
a. Practical matters: restrooms, process monitor (time keeper), break, etc.
b. A-ha sheet.
c. Parking lot.
8. Opening round. (60 seconds each; 20 minutes total)
a. Achievement (your or another department/committee) since last Committee of the Whole meeting and why it is important.
9. Review. (15 minutes)
a. Brief summary and review of the three 2012 Committee of the Whole meetings.
b. Loose ends: status of previously identified action items.
10. Community Development Director. (30 minutes)
a. What’s happened in first four-and-a-half months.
b. Prioritization going forward.
c. Park Plan, Smart Growth Plan, and Resident Survey.
d. Transparency and confidentiality agreements.
11. Library. (15 minutes)
a. Update on Library strategic planning and survey.
b. Post Office – facility maintenance.
c. Post Office – lease.
12. Break. (10 minutes)
13. Post-Act 10 issues. (60 minutes)
a. Public employee survey.
b. Employee recognition.
c. Personnel handbook.
d. Union negotiations.
14. Break. (10 minutes)
15. Loose ends. (30 minutes)
a. Fire District – planning and representation.
b. Bauer House property.
c. Emergency operations plan.
d. Other opportunities, threats, issues, etc.
16. Check-out. (15 minutes)
a. Parking lot.
b. A-ha sheet. Any insights to share.
c. Closing round. (30 seconds each; 10 minutes total)
d. Select tentative September meeting date for next Committee of the Whole. Likely topics to include Smart Growth Plan update, resident survey, and budget.
17. Adjourn.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Nostalgia: 2008: 4k: The analysis: Melissa Hammann
TUESDAY, JANUARY 15, 2008
4K The Analysis
Now I’d like to briefly review the financial aspect of the 4K-committee report. Please refer to the attached Excel file (4K Committee Financial Data). For the sake of clarity, I’ll restrict my discussion to the half-day options requiring additional bus service. In the pilot year, if you factor in the standard local revenue match of 33% ($25,200) the school district will have to provide about $40,000 in 2007-2008 to fund the 4K pilot study, thereby denying some other program. It finally dawned on me why there was such an unexplained urgency to cut off the half-day (five-year-old) kindergarten program, one of the bastions of reason in our school district. I have included the local revenue in my analysis because I want to re-emphasize that there will be additional local revenue commitments required to provide 4K in Evansville. The calculation for full implementation in 2008-2009 was predicted on a conservative estimate of 100 participants. The current kindergarten enrollment is 130. This level of enrollment would require another teacher, another assistant, more physical plant and possibly another bus. For purposes of discussion, I will only consider the 100-student scenario. The 4K report I have from the committee showed the sum of expenditures to be $214,000. Perhaps I have a preliminary version. When I started to figure in the local matches to calculate shortfalls, it was clear there was a math error. I double-checked the figures and came up with $289,000 in projected expenditures. Subtracting the state revenue of $140,000 and the local match of $70,000, it will cost the district $79,000 to fully implement 4K in 2008-2009. The administration told the board that the school district “can’t afford” to keep a half-day kindergarten option, placed Gifted and Talented services on the chopping block and scaled back the AP program. I submit to you that the school district also doesn’t have a spare $119,000 to pilot and implement a program that “has no proven societal or educational benefits.” The administration’s concern that the state will soon require 4K is unfounded in light of the recent political climate. The legislature just established the task force to “study” the issue. These things are notoriously slow to complete. The prudent approach is to wait to see if and when the DPI states “by the year 2XYZ, all Wisconsin schools will have 4K.” Then the program can be phased in thoughtfully, with full endorsement of the legislature, factoring in standardized 4K facilities with the next building cycle. There have been too many battles robbing Peter to pay Paul in the recent budget cycle to consider the boondoggle of 4K. I strongly urge the board, in light of this information, to deny 4K implementation in Evansville.
Thank you for your time.
Mailbag: Ryan McNeaL update:
Long time, no talk! I want to send you a link to my newest music video and let you know what I am up to.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsiiMAAbFmo
I'd love if you' want to blast it around your blog! I directed the video, and my sister, Megan, starred as the lead female. We shot on location in Malibu, CA and Santa Monica. The band is Paradise Fears, a home-grown South Dakota group who have done national tours with All Time Low and other big bands.
The video itself was trending last night on twitter and iTunes as the most popular trend nationally!
I am now based in Los Angeles. I direct music videos for artists Jennifer Thomas, and Paradise Fears. In the fall I am directing a feature documentary on the lost city of Petra, which we will be filming on location in Jordan.
Let me know if you would like any more info! My website is ww.rkmstudios.com
Thank you!
-Ryan McNeal
Monday, May 13, 2013
Minutes: Historic Pres: April 2013: Peace Garden
Evansville Historic Preservation Commission
Minutes
Wednesday, April 17, 2013, 6:30 P.M.
Evansville City Hall
Present: John Decker, Rich Modaff, Betsy Ahner, Ald. Ben Ladick, Steve Culbertson
Excused: Steve Christens Absent: Rick Schuch
Also Present: Mayor Sandy Decker, Dan Wietecha, City Administrator, John Gishnock, Becky Gonzales, Jim McGoey, Molly and Steve Hicks
The meeting was called to order at 6:30 PM by Chair Richard Modaff. Motion by Decker to waive the reading of the minutes of the March 20, 2013 meeting and approve them as read. Second by Culbertson. Motion carried.
Reorganization:
Motion by Decker to nominate Rich Modaff as Chairperson, Steve Christens as Vice-chair and Betsy Ahner as Secretary. Second by Ladick. Hearing no further nominations Modaff asked for a motion to approve the nominations. Motion by Culbertson to approve the nominations as presented. Second by Ladick. Motion carried unaninmously.
Applications – Appearances
33 Second Street – Motion by Culbertson to accept the application. Second by Decker. Molly and Steve Hicks explained they would like to create a three season porch in place of the current screened porch. They would add a frost wall, level the floor, add two windows and a new back door. They would also pour a concrete slab and sidewalk at the back porch to eliminate damaged patio blocks and weather related problems. Motion carried unanimously.
224 West Church Street – Motion by Decker to accept the application. Second by Ladick. Homeowner, Jim McGoey explained that he wanted to build a 20 x 30 foot detached garage on his property. It will be constructed of wood and the roof and colors will match his home. Motion carried unanimously.
Seminary Park Landscape Project – Motion by Decker to accept the application. Second by Culbertson.
John Gishnock and Becky Gonzales presented slides showing the proposed design of the peace garden which would be created mainly on the north side of the park. Among other features it would include a labyrinth and meditative features. The Park Board has approved the plan and Modaff explained he has received positive comments from neighbors across the street from the park. This is an underutilized park, in fact many residents do not realize it is a city park. This will be a multi-year project and will not begin until funds are raised to pay for the first phase. After that progress will depend on the rate at which funds can be raised. Modaff expressed a concern that if the project stretched over too many years future Historic Preservation Commission members may not be supportive. Decker said that once the committee reviews and approves the plan, the work of the HPC is finished and it is up to the Park Board to follow through on the project. Motion carried unanimously.
Next steps - an application must be submitted to the state Historic Preservation Officer. Decker asked that hard copies of the presentation slides and other info be provided for the application. The role of the state is to ensure that the proposed park will fit into the historic neighborhood and not have an adverse effect on it. Motion by Decker that the Evansville HPC express an opinion to the state that this proposed project will not have an adverse effect on the historic character of the district. Second by Culbertson. Motion carried unanimously.
Administrative
Grove Society – Decker explained the Rally ‘Round the Flag publicity is starting to get out. That event will be held mainly in Leota Park on May 17 – 19, 2013.
Cannon project – the wet weather is hampering the installation of the concrete base for the cannon in front of City Hall.
HPC Documents and Records – nothing new to report
Plaque Program – Decker has received a request from David Mosher regarding placing a plaque on the building he has renovated for his office. State Historical markers are designated for historic events, people or buildings and his building would not qualify, mainly because the history of the building is not known. It may be possible under an older Evansville program to place an information plaque on the building. Decker will continue to research this.
Correspondence
A thank you note has been received from the 4th Grade History Hunters and it was passed around so the commissioners could read it.
There being no other business Ahner moved to adjourn. Second by Ladick. Motion carried.
The minutes of the Evansville Historic Preservation Commission are not official until approved by the Commission.
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Evansville Park Board Meets Monday, May 13
City of Evansville, Wisconsin
Park & Recreation Board Regular Monthly Meeting
Evansville, City Hall
Monday, May 13th,- 6:00pm
AGENDA
1. Call to Order & Roll Call
2. Motion to approve Agenda as printed
3. Motion to waive the reading of the April 8th, 2013 minutes & approve them as printed
4. Citizen appearances, relating to Park & Recreation, not listed agenda items
5. Jennifer Braun of BASE to discuss No Alcohol signage.
6. Baseball Complex : Discussion
7. Discussion & motion to increase Park Rental Fees.
8. Discussion & motion to waive Jays” Baseball fees.
9. Discussion on Litewire using timing system for the July 4th Run & Motion.
10. Disc Golf Update
11. Park Plan : Discussion of Surveys & Chapters 2,3 & 4 of Booklet
12. West Side Park, bathroom project Update
13. Chair's report from other Committees/Common Council
Discuss Ice Age Trail turn-out…
14. Reports/Updates on projects or Maintenance
15. Old Business
16. New Business
17. Motion to adjourn
Next meeting Monday, June 10th, 2013 - 6:00 pm, City Hall
Evansville Observer: Nostalgia: November 2006: 4K: Jamie Fellows Speaks...
Evansville Observer: Nostalgia: November 2006: 4K: Jamie Fellows Speaks...: Current Daycare providers serve 142 childrens of possible 150 in Evansville. 4K proposal is duplication of services. Download File
2008: Nostalgia: Evansville Observer: Evansville Budget Corner: City Reaches Levy Limit...
Evansville Observer: Evansville Budget Corner: City Reaches Levy Limit...: In the memo of Jennifer Petruzello and Eric Jepperson, Finance Director, to the Mayor and Evansville Common council on Thursday, she notes t...
Friday, May 10, 2013
Thursday, May 09, 2013
Evansville School Board Meets Monday--May 13, 2013
EVANSVILLE COMMUNITY SCHOOLDISTRICT
Board of Education Regular Meeting Agenda
Monday, May 13, 2013
6:30 p.m.
District Board and Training Center
340 Fair Street (Door 36)
Note, public notice of this meeting given by posting at the District Office, Levi Leonard Elementary School
Office, Theodore Robinson Intermediate School Office, J.C. McKenna Middle School Office, High School Office,
Evansville School District Web Site: Evansville.k12.wi.us, and by forwarding the agenda to the Evansville Review,
Union Bank & Trust and Eager Free Public Library.
6:00 pm: Two board members are available to listen to the public on a drop in basis.
Approx. Time
I. Roll Call: Dennis Hatfield Eric Busse HS Rep. HunterJohnson
Tina Rossmiller John Rasmussen HS Rep. Marissa Haegele
Kathi Swanson Sandra Spanton Nelson 1 min
II. Approve Agenda. 1 min
III. Public Announcements/Recognition/Upcoming Events:
• Back To School Days – August 14 & 15 from 1:00 – 7:00 pm
• Recognize High School Board Reps: Marissa Haegele and Hunter Johnson
1 min
IV. Public Presentations. 15 min
V. District Administrator Report – Budget Update and Draft 2013-2014 Budget Calendar. 5 min
VI. High School Board Representatives/Principals’/Administrators’ Reports –High School
Events and Good Things Happening in our Schools.
10 min
VII. Information & Discussion:
A. Drafting Presentation by Hunter Johnson.
B. High School Wall of Fame Presentation.
C. WKCE Results.
D. Set the 2013 Annual Meeting Date.
E. High School Low Enrollment/Class Size Courses.
F. Ad Hoc Fee Schedule Committee.
G. Physical Security Assessment.
H. 4K Discussion.
I. Referendum Discussion.
J. First Reading of Policy #760.1-Breakfast/lunch Fee Schedule.
K. Second Reading of Policies: #187-Public Participation at Board Meetings and #322-
Student School Day.
L. 2012-2013 Budget Update.
M. 2013-2014 Budget Update.
90min
VIII. Business (Action Items):
A. Approval of Staff Changes: Support Staff,Nurse, and Teacher Resignation, Support
20 minStaff Retirement, and Teacher Contract.
B. Approval of 2013 Open Enrollment Applications.
C. Approval of 2013-2016 Technology Plan.
D. Approval of Leases: Kids Korner, Kid Connection, and Woodchucks.
E. Approval of 2013-2014 Staffing Positions.
F. Approval of 2013-2014 School Meal Prices.
G. Approval of Physical Security Assessment.
IX. Consent (Action Items):
A. Approval of Policy #152-Employee Handbook.
B. Approval of April 8 and 29, 2013, Regular and April 22, 2013, Special Meeting
Minutes.
C. Approval of March and April Bills and Reconciliation.
2 min
X. May 20 Special Meeting and June 10, 2013, Regular Meeting Agendas. 5 min
XI. Adjourn. 1 min
Mission Statement:
The Evansville Community School District, in active partnership with families and the community, will
provide a positive learning environment that challenges all students to achieve personal excellence and
become contributing citizens of the world community.
Vision Statement:
Creating a culture of excellence in:
• Academic achievement
• Character development
• Pursuit of arts, athletics, and other activities
• Community engagement
• Highly effective staff
This notice may be supplemented with additions to the agenda that come to the attention of the Board prior to the meeting. A final agenda
will be posted and provided to the media no later than 24 hours prior to the meeting or no later than 2 hours prior to the meeting in the
event of an emergency.
Persons needing special accommodations or more specific information about the agenda items should call 882-5224, Ext. 3387, at least 24
hours prior to the meeting.
Posted: 5/9/13
Re-Posted: 5/9/13pm
Wednesday, May 08, 2013
OpEd::Taxpayers LOVE the levy limits---they dislike Gov Walker--they want a value added tax to get schools fair revenue to thrive and achieve
Wisconsin has a proud history of achievement in k-12 education...the property tax has exhausted its limits---both dems and republicans need to focus on the beef not the baloney===not on divide and conquer but on what will work---voucher talk is loser talk...think value added or sales tax...destroying our schools is not the answer.
OpED: It's time for BEEF,not BALONEY
Have you talked to anyone leaving the Evansville school district? Chances are they are leaving for open enrollment and NOT vouchers...The rant about vouchers is about lies not reality....The pretend open media liberal types that have all the slick slideshows ready---- shilling their personal interest are all ready for educating the public===hey guys-- Fr Groppi came in 1969 before u were born---maybe you should get educated on the issue.
Mailbag: Vinehout: Shine the Light
Open Pantry Door and Shine Light on Economic Development Programs
“In Wisconsin, we don’t make excuses, we get results,” said Governor Walker as quoted by the Associated Press. The governor was unveiling his $75 million budget initiative earlier this year to economic development professionals across the state.
While the new dollars are still being the debated, the spending of existing economic development dollars recently took center stage among Legislators.
The Legislative Audit Bureau (LAB) released a stinging indictment of mismanagement and poor oversight at the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). The audit reviewed 30 economic development programs during the 2011-12 fiscal year. WEDC awarded $41.3 million in grants, $20.5 million in loans, provided $110.8 million in tax credits to businesses and individuals, and authorized local government to issue $346.4 million in bonds.
Auditors found not a single job created by this investment was verified by WEDC. More than half of the required reports had not even filed by businesses receiving assistance. Without evidence it was impossible for auditors to determine if contractually specified performance, including required job creation, ever happened.
In page after page of the 120-page report auditors outlined management failures and violations of current law.
Companies and projects that were not eligible still received awards. In violation of the law, WEDC paid for activities provided before the date of the company’s contract. Awards were given by WEDC over amounts limited by law. One company received $2.5 million in credits through a job creation program and never even promised to create jobs. Another company received $57,000 per job in clear violation of program limits on dollars given per job.
Delinquent loans were not tracked and collected. One loan was restructured six times to avoid the business making payments. Another business that failed to pay on a loan that was almost 14 years old received another loan twice as big. Some loans were forgiven; one of which was made to a company that hired the same firm WEDC hired to improve its record keeping.
Auditors documented at least seven instances where this firm, Baker Tilly, had potential conflicts of interest because the firm represented and provided consulting services to companies seeking awards with WEDC during the time Baker Tilly had access to information on WEDC’s awards and recipients.
Wisconsin’s premier metric “Job Creation” could not be verified on any of the millions of taxpayer dollars that went out the door.
The metrics for tracking job creation programs were set to law following a disturbing audit over six years ago. Senator Lassa and I along with other now retired lawmakers spent a year fixing these problems. Following systems in other states we set rules requiring goals, benchmarks and evaluation to make sure the business did what was promised and the people’s dollars were wisely invested.
In January, 2011 I wrote:
All this work is about to be thrown out the window. And to be replaced by a dark pantry with a sign on the door reading ‘Just Trust Us’.
Moving at break neck speed through the Legislature is a bill to abolish the state commerce department and create a private corporation. The bill gives this private corporation unlimited state bonding (or borrowing) privileges and makes it exempt from many state laws including employment law.
Two years later auditors found even the limited version of what remained of the law was not followed. The problems of mismanagement and the appearance of impropriety are not limited to Wisconsin.
Earlier this year, the Chicago Tribune reported the federal government is investigating the Illinois economic development agency and the state auditor warned for twenty years controls on state money are not adequate. New York Times reporters documented Governor Cuomo’s actions using New York’s economic development agency to hire friends and shore up contributions for his possible run for president.
Both Illinois and New York have Democratic governors. Regardless of party, there is no excuse for mismanagement and poor oversight.
Lawmakers must demand change. If everything doesn’t have to be made public, the temptation to break the law is much greater. Every parent knows you can’t leave kids in the pantry with the door closed.
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Sen.Vinehout@legis.wisconsin.gov State Capitol Room 316 South - P.O. Box 7882, Madison, WI 53707-7882 Toll Free: (877) 763-6636 or
(608) 267-2871
Tuesday, May 07, 2013
Monday, May 06, 2013
Eager Library Looking for some boxes
Good morning Friends Members -
I am passing this along per Megan:
We are looking for large boxes to use in our special play time on Friday, May 31st. They need to be large enough for a toddler/preschooler to sit in and turn in to a car. Here's a link to the basic idea, if that gives helps you visualize what we are looking for: http://tinytipsforlibraryfun.blogspot.com/2012/08/toddler-drive-in-movie.html
Boxes can be in "broken down" form or "built" form.
Thanks!
--
Megan Kloeckner
Library Director
Eager Free Public Library
(608) 882-2278
Sunday, May 05, 2013
Saturday, May 04, 2013
Thursday, May 02, 2013
Wednesday, May 01, 2013
Minutes: Planning: April 2013
City of Evansville Plan Commission
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 1, 2013, 6:00 p.m.
City Hall (Third Floor), 31 South Madison Street
MINUTES
1. Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Sandy Decker.
2. Roll Call. Members present: John Gishnock, Mason Braunschweig, Sandy Decker, Bill Hammann (arrived late), Carol Endres, and Jim Brooks. Absent: Matt Eaton. Others present: City Administrator Dan Wietecha, Community Development Director Nicole Sidoff, and Jim Bandt, engineer for the Bluescope expansion project.
3. Approval of Agenda. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Brooks, to approve the agenda. Motion approved 5-0.
4. Approval of Minutes. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Hammann, to waive the reading of the minutes from the March 4, 2013 regular meeting and approve them as printed. Motion approved 5-0.
5. Civility Reminder. Decker noted the civility reminder.
6. Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed. None.
7. New Business
a. Parking lot expansion site plan review for parcel number 6-27-316.84 (Grove Retreat)
i. Initial Staff Comments: Sidoff noted the Grove Retreat, which is the new quilters/crafters retreat, needs to expand its parking lot to meet the zoning requirements of one parking spot for each overnight guest. The Retreat can accommodate up to 13 overnight guests, therefore they needed to expand their lot by about 4 spaces. The proposed parking lot site plan included in the packet meets the zoning requirements for a parking lot for a boardinghouse, which is what the Retreat is considered according to City zoning.
ii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments: Endres asked if the lines for the parking spots would be painted on the lot, and Sidoff confirmed that they would be painted on. Brooks asked where the stormwater runoff from the parking lot would drain to. Wietecha noted that it runs off directly to the stormwater pond east of the property.
Hammann arrived at 6:04 p.m.
Gishnock asked how many parking spots were currently in the lot. Sidoff noted that the lot currently had about 9 parking spots.
iii. Motion Regarding Site Plan Review: Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Brooks, to approve the site plan for 5 North Water Street, the Grove Retreat, to expand the existing parking lot to accommodate four additional parking spaces. Motion approved 6-0.
b. Discussion on location for cabinetry business. Sidoff noted that a cabinetry business that is currently operating out of a home in Albany is looking for a location for a 50% workshop/50% retail operation in Evansville. The City’s zoning code does not currently allow for a mix of 50% light industrial and 50% retail. Sidoff noted that the business owners would likely be attending the next Plan Commission meeting to discuss their business idea with the Commission, and the Commission could discuss where an appropriate place for such a mix of industry and sales would be. Sidoff noted that they indicated a desire for a visible storefront in a more commercially-oriented part of the City. Hammann asked why the part of the operation would be considered retail, and Sidoff noted that it is because they would be selling cabinetry to customers at the site. Decker noted that this item was on the agenda to give Commissioners a heads-up on the topic and encourage them to think about where an appropriate place for this type of business would be in the City.
c. City of Evansville Park and Outdoor Recreation Plan Status Update. Sidoff noted that the planning process is underway and public input was being gathered. Over 150 people had responded to the online survey. Sidoff distributed flyers with information on the online survey. She asked Plan Commissioners for suggestions on additional forums for public engagement beyond those she has already identified. Brooks suggested the Energy Fair. Decker noted that the National Parks Service would be hosting on open house on the possible Ice Age Trail expansion through Evansville at Creekside Place on Monday, April 29, 2013 at 5 p.m.
d. Building addition site plan review for parcel number 6-27-669 (Bluescope Buildings)
i. Initial Staff Comments: Wietecha noted that the expansion would essentially square off an existing hallway, resulting in a 75x75 foot building. This would allow Bluescope to expand its paint operations and add a few jobs.
ii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments: Brooks noted that this is a pretty straightforward project. Endres asked for clarification on the parking spots resulting from the expansion, and Wietecha clarified that the existing parking spots on the site exceeded the requirements for the total building square footage on the property resulting from the expansion project.
iii. Motion Regarding Site Plan Review: Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Hammann, to approve the site plan for 273 Water Street, Bluescope Buildings. Motion approved 6-0.
8. Monthly Reports
b. Report on other permitting activity by Zoning Administrator. Sidoff noted that she did not have anything of significance to report; however, she has had discussions with a few people who will likely have developments to address at the next Plan Commission meeting.
c. Report on the Unified Land Development Code Committee. No report.
d. Report of the Evansville Historic Preservation Commission. Decker noted that the Historical Society had approved the creation of a disc golf course at Leota Park.
e. Report on Common Council actions relating to Plan Commission recommendations. No report.
f. Report on Board of Appeals actions relating to zoning matters. The Board of Appeals is scheduled to meet the following night, April 2, at 5 p.m. to address the Landmark Services Cooperative variance application.
g. Enforcement Report. No report.
9. Meeting Reminder. The next Plan Commission meeting is Monday, May 6, 2013.
10. Adjournment. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Endres, to adjourn at 6:19 p.m. Motion approved 6-0.
The minutes are not official until approved by the Plan Commission at their next regular meeting.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Monday, April 29, 2013
April Minutes; Evansville Police and EMS
8. Evansville Police Report –
Calls for service for the month is unknown at the time of the meeting as the new system has not been programmed. Training for the new system will continue through June. The tentative target date for the system to be up and running properly is June 1, 2013. Total license plate transactions were 56, with 741 transactions for the year.
All staff completed Rapid Response/Active Shooter training and Standard Field Sobriety Testing in March. All staff has or will be attending Spillman training in April and May. In April, Lieutenant Koehler will attend Children Homicide Resistance training, Officer Mahan-Strupp will attend Rifle Instructor Course training, Officer Nankee will attend SFST Instructor training and Chief McElroy will attend “Lockdown” training. In May, Officers Reese and Job will attend Background Investigation training and EVOC Instructor training, and Officer Mahan-Strupp will attend DAAT Instructor training. Officers Job, Nankee and Mahan-Strupp will be updating the Field Training Officer manual. Officer Job has scheduled a meeting with the Monroe Police Department training officer to assist in this process.
The Sergeant promotional opportunity was posted March 1, the written exam was March 22, and an Open Panel interview is set for Friday, April 1. Advertisement was placed for a full and part-time police officer eligibility list with a closing date of April 22, 2013 at 3:30 p.m. Three coop student candidates were interviewed on April 2, 2013.
As of March 1, we have completed all accreditation required policy review of Chapters 1-14. All proofing and proofs have been forwarded to Tim Kriz of CSI. We are working on Chapter 15 and some additional policies and/or directives. We are working on WILEAG standard Version 4 and are likely to see additional requirements/costs. The on-site evaluation is set for November 2013.
We received our Laptop Model 31 and the purchase will be reimbursed by a $4,000 grant and a $650 donation from the Evansville Police Officers Association.
The Emergency Services Trailer was inventoried on March 23, 2013. There have been a few minor issues with the video cameras and modifications have been made. County Siren testing was scheduled for today at 12:05 p.m.
9. Evansville Medical Service Report
There were 43 calls for service in the month of March, 2013.
Recruitment as always is an ongoing process. As of today, we have two trainees. One is a licensed EMT and the other is in EMT class. They are both riding with the service at this time.
The end of April is the Week of the Young Child. We will participate in the parade along with the Friday night event at the school. The service donated 50 File of Life forms to seniors for those who have medical needs. We will be working with BASE to put the “Evansville Night Out” project together for August. The Bike Rodeo will be during this event also.
10. Motion by Jacobson, second by Fuchs, to adjourn the meeting at 7:24 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Barbara Jacobson, Chairperson
TONIGHT: Creekside: Open House: Ice Age Trail
Open House: Ice Age Trail
The National Park Service is holding an Open House from 5-9 pm on Monday, April 29, at Creekside Place Community Center, 102 Maple Street.
The Park Service will explain the proposed options for the Ice Age Trail in our region. Public input is very important.
Info at Park Service website....
Maps of three options.....
John Decker of the Evansville Grove Society will present "Evansville History 101" around 6:00-6:30 during the open house.
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Friday, April 26, 2013
Ice Age Trail Planning Meeting--MONDAY--Creekside Place--5-9PM
From 5 to 9 pm, next Monday, April 29, the National Park Service is hosting an Open House at Creekside Place, 102 Maple Street, to explain the proposed alternate Ice Age Trail routes in our area. After this meeting a final trail route will be designated by the Park Service. Information and maps at the Park Service website: http://parkplanning.nps.gov/document.cfm?parkID=137&projectID=22396&documentID=52710
Public input is very important to persuade the Park Service to select a route that runs through Evansville.
The Park Service has invited John Decker of the Evansville Grove Society to make a presentation on Evansville's history and historic districts from about 6:00 to 6:30 during the Open House. I hope you'll come out and enjoy "Evansville History 101."
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Monday, April 22, 2013
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Matthias James Pottery Sale Coming this weekend
Annual Spring Pottery Sale
April 27-29, 2012
Come into Allen Creek Gallery April 26-28, 2013 to draw your discount of 10% to 40% off your entire purchase of Matthias James Pottery!
Jazz at the Night Owl after the Art Crawl Friday Night
After the Art Crawl
Live Jazz Music
Stolen Moments
at 9 pm, Friday Night- at The Night Owl 19 East Main Street
Spend your Evening enjoying a journey of Art , then head on down to the Night Owl and enjoy
Click here to take a listen:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1D7srXXOzLU
Saturday, April 20, 2013
OpEd: The Observer celebrates the end of the 4 Period Day
Recently in a local paper, our Evansville School Superintendent, Mr. Roth indicated that one of the ways of bring down the deficit for the next year would be to leave the four period day, or the block schedule. This is wonderful news.
The 4 Period day was introduced in Evansville Schools as a way to increase compensation. It never had any shred of evidence of being able to improve student achievement. It actually reduced the hours of instruction---and those reduced hours of instruction lead over time to reduced performance...Thus it is now a matter of MATH, not Politics....the 4 period day must end...That is how I see it..and you?
Friday, April 19, 2013
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
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