Click on the post for the revised agenda in the agenda blog.
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Monday, April 30, 2007
Mr. Sauer: "System performed as expected"
In this audio segment, Mr. Dave Sauer explains the definition of a 100 year event. Also explains that the current system performed "pretty much as expected."
Southgate Pond needs to be worked on
In this audio segment, Mr. Dave Sauer, Evansville city engineer explains that "Southgate pond" did not properly drain in the last event, and lists the things that need to be done by the city to improve this matter.
Observer: "Have you considered the possibility of error?"
(Ed.note: This is one question of the question and answer period of the recent Public Works meeting on 4-23-2007. The full audio is below on the blog. The full movie will be published on the blog shortly. Enjoy.)
In this audio segment, the Observer asks the first question of any investment: " What if one is wrong...what then?"
In answer, Mr. Sauer cites second Opinions by the DNR and another engineering firm. He also cites the two additional feet of elevation above the 100 year flood elevation level as the accepted cushion.
In this audio segment, the Observer asks the first question of any investment: " What if one is wrong...what then?"
In answer, Mr. Sauer cites second Opinions by the DNR and another engineering firm. He also cites the two additional feet of elevation above the 100 year flood elevation level as the accepted cushion.
Mark Schnepper Asks why Sub-pump always runs
(Ed.note: This audio segment is from the full audio transcript of Public Works meeting of 4-23-2007 regarding recent Westside stormwater problems---Mr. Dave Sauer, City Engineer responds to questions. See the full audio for Mr. Sauer's full remarks.)
The Evansville City Engineer responds to a question by Mr. Mark Schnepper regarding his sub-pump that is constantly running---Mr. Sauer explains the difference between stormwater drainage problems and groundwater elevation and improper contractor digging of basements too low.
The Evansville City Engineer responds to a question by Mr. Mark Schnepper regarding his sub-pump that is constantly running---Mr. Sauer explains the difference between stormwater drainage problems and groundwater elevation and improper contractor digging of basements too low.
Star Tribune: Less Jail Time for Fatal DWI's sparks controversy
Click on the post for the latest from the Star Tribune in Mpls.
Soucheray Corner: "Being Dad Has its Advantages"
On Being a Dad; On that last child to leave home; Classic Soucheray. Click on the post.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Dateline Normal: "An Inconvenient Truth"----FICTION
Click on the post for the latest from Normal, Mn.
Gazette OpED: Gazette supports 50-25-25 Plan for School Funding of Cullen
Click on the post for the editorial from Saturday.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
April 2007 Evansville School Board---Officers Elected: Soccer Field Lights in the Spotlight
April 2007 Evansville School Board: Election of Officers; Soccer Lights Discussed; Special Introduction by RKM Studios featuring the "WHO". Soccer discussion begins at 21.30. Use cursor to drag back and forth to desired spot.
Energy Corner: HS Windmill Data--the bottom line
Click on the post for the summary page from the Evansville High School site that covers the windmill wind measurement data. If you click the 2003-2004 data it provides an analysis of the projected electricity production possible at the site.
One of the principal benefits of this windmill site has been the learning component for all involved----as the community comes up to speed on the benefits of wind energy, the issue will be WHERE is the proper location and not WHETHER to use wind.
Ecoenergy recently appeared at the Union Planning Commission meeting on Monday night and were exploring with Union what form of ordinance they would be drafting for test wind towers as well as wind generation for Union.
Stay tuned.
One of the principal benefits of this windmill site has been the learning component for all involved----as the community comes up to speed on the benefits of wind energy, the issue will be WHERE is the proper location and not WHETHER to use wind.
Ecoenergy recently appeared at the Union Planning Commission meeting on Monday night and were exploring with Union what form of ordinance they would be drafting for test wind towers as well as wind generation for Union.
Stay tuned.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Union Plan Commission: April 27, 2007
Union Plan Commission April 27, 2007---Review of Proposal by Randy Schotliff to have Phase I of development approved for Territorial Rd and Hwy M consisting of 20 homes of average value of $250,000 and ultimately 100 homes over 7 years. -This is first hour of audio.
Union Plan Com, April 27, 2007, Part II
Final 24 minutes of audio of Union Plan Commission of Monday, April 27, 2007
Evansville Planning Commission Meets Tuesday, May 1, 2007, 6:00PM; Annexation on Agenda
Click on the post for the full agenda.
Union: Planning: Proposed Residential development to be 100 homes in long term--(7 years--)--20 in first phase----Audio Pending
(Ed. note: Stay tuned for full audio of the Union Planning Commission meeting last night regarding the proposal for residential development on territorial Road at M. )
The proposal by Randy Shotliff, presented last night by Ron Combs has been an evolving proposal from January 2007. At the initial meeting, there was a commercial component that was withdrawn just prior to the meeting. At the meeting in March 2007, the Planning commission had instructed the applicant to bring several items of information, including soil data, transportation data, approval of Evansville with respect to the extraterritorial approval, as well as covenants and homeowner association agreements that would be part of any development.
No attorneys were able to be present last night, so there was no detail on any convenant language. Because covenant language with respect to size and price of the units was critical to determine impact, some members felt that they could not make a decision without that information.
The Observer did mention that there was a joint meeting of Union and Evansville Planning commission in December of 2005 at which Supr. Carvin presented data on the school district, and at the conclusion of that meeting it was the general consensus that a joint effort to have an impact study done. Nothing has been done since that meeting.
Doug Zweizig said that the development proposed would be a big change for Union. Mr. Exum mentioned that knowing the covenants was important before and not after any possible approval.
Mr. Combs said that the city of Evansville planner had said that Evansville would not review the proposal till Union had acted on it.
Mr. Combs said that he would prepare some impact information for next month's meeting and have the details of the covenants that were being proposed available for the commission to review.
The commission voted unanimously to postpone decision to next month.
The full audio of this meeting will be posted later today.
Stay tuned to The Evansville Observer.
The proposal by Randy Shotliff, presented last night by Ron Combs has been an evolving proposal from January 2007. At the initial meeting, there was a commercial component that was withdrawn just prior to the meeting. At the meeting in March 2007, the Planning commission had instructed the applicant to bring several items of information, including soil data, transportation data, approval of Evansville with respect to the extraterritorial approval, as well as covenants and homeowner association agreements that would be part of any development.
No attorneys were able to be present last night, so there was no detail on any convenant language. Because covenant language with respect to size and price of the units was critical to determine impact, some members felt that they could not make a decision without that information.
The Observer did mention that there was a joint meeting of Union and Evansville Planning commission in December of 2005 at which Supr. Carvin presented data on the school district, and at the conclusion of that meeting it was the general consensus that a joint effort to have an impact study done. Nothing has been done since that meeting.
Doug Zweizig said that the development proposed would be a big change for Union. Mr. Exum mentioned that knowing the covenants was important before and not after any possible approval.
Mr. Combs said that the city of Evansville planner had said that Evansville would not review the proposal till Union had acted on it.
Mr. Combs said that he would prepare some impact information for next month's meeting and have the details of the covenants that were being proposed available for the commission to review.
The commission voted unanimously to postpone decision to next month.
The full audio of this meeting will be posted later today.
Stay tuned to The Evansville Observer.
Hometown Video and Dollarland to Close in May
The Observer has learned that Hometown Video and Dollarland stores in downtown Evansville are planning to close in May 2007. Impact of the downtown reconstruction has been cited.
Stay tuned.
Stay tuned.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Tenet Tells All:
Ex CIA Chief Tenet points fingers in his new book coming out on Monday. Click on the post for the details.
Evansville Common Council --Reorg
April 2007 Evansville Common Council--Reorg meeting--swearing in of elected alderman and election of Mason Braunschweig Council President
Union Planning Commission meets Thursday---Large Animal Facility Zoning and Residential Construction on Agenda
Town of Union
PLAN COMMISSION MEETING
April 26, 2007
The Town of Union Plan Commission will hold a regular meeting on Thursday, April 26, 2007 at
the Eager Free Public Library, 39 W . Main Street, Evansville at 7:00 p.m. (use 1st Street
entrance, lower level meeting room). Town board members may be in attendance. The topics
of discussion and action will be:
1. Continued discussion and recommendation to Town Board for request by Randy Shotliff,
4215 Winnequah Dr. Monona, W I 53716 for a land division and zoning change to create
22 rural residential parcels (20 buildable lots and 2 outlots) using 41.65 acres of land
from two A1 parcels (#6-20-212 (89.406 acres) & #6-20-211 (33.1 acres). The remaining
80 some acres of parcels #6-20-212 and #6-20-211 will then be combined with the A1
parcel #6-20-210 (32.881 acres) to create one large A1 parcel of approximately 114
acres. This land is located in the NW 1/4 of Section 24 and part of the SW 1/4 of
Section 24.
2. Discussion on changing A-3 zoning to allow telephone, gas, and electric transmission
lines, buildings, or structures as a conditional use.
3. Discussion on changing A-1,2,3 zoning districts to allow wind powered electrical
generation equipment.
4. Discussion on designating an Exclusive A-1 area allowing large animal facilities over
500 animal units under Sec.93.90 of WI Statutes and ATCP 51 and reviewing animal
restrictions in A-2 and A-3 zoning areas.
5. Report from Plan Commission Training attendees.
Clerk Linda O’Leary 882-5900
PLAN COMMISSION MEETING
April 26, 2007
The Town of Union Plan Commission will hold a regular meeting on Thursday, April 26, 2007 at
the Eager Free Public Library, 39 W . Main Street, Evansville at 7:00 p.m. (use 1st Street
entrance, lower level meeting room). Town board members may be in attendance. The topics
of discussion and action will be:
1. Continued discussion and recommendation to Town Board for request by Randy Shotliff,
4215 Winnequah Dr. Monona, W I 53716 for a land division and zoning change to create
22 rural residential parcels (20 buildable lots and 2 outlots) using 41.65 acres of land
from two A1 parcels (#6-20-212 (89.406 acres) & #6-20-211 (33.1 acres). The remaining
80 some acres of parcels #6-20-212 and #6-20-211 will then be combined with the A1
parcel #6-20-210 (32.881 acres) to create one large A1 parcel of approximately 114
acres. This land is located in the NW 1/4 of Section 24 and part of the SW 1/4 of
Section 24.
2. Discussion on changing A-3 zoning to allow telephone, gas, and electric transmission
lines, buildings, or structures as a conditional use.
3. Discussion on changing A-1,2,3 zoning districts to allow wind powered electrical
generation equipment.
4. Discussion on designating an Exclusive A-1 area allowing large animal facilities over
500 animal units under Sec.93.90 of WI Statutes and ATCP 51 and reviewing animal
restrictions in A-2 and A-3 zoning areas.
5. Report from Plan Commission Training attendees.
Clerk Linda O’Leary 882-5900
The Gulf: On the Brink of All Out War
Click on the post for an article that gives a glimpse of what may come next.
School Beat: Monroe: Post Referendum:
Click on the post for a review of the Monroe School district post referendum that is in the Monroe Times.
Two items stand out: Two Capstone Homes that remain unsold built by students will cost the district $375,000. Second---the district still has a negative fund balance of $500,000.
One of the key items of the article was that the meeting to make the cuts was held in public---a point that was made by the outgoing administrator, Mr. Jefson. He cited rebuilding and keeping public trust as critical to success in Monroe.
Two items stand out: Two Capstone Homes that remain unsold built by students will cost the district $375,000. Second---the district still has a negative fund balance of $500,000.
One of the key items of the article was that the meeting to make the cuts was held in public---a point that was made by the outgoing administrator, Mr. Jefson. He cited rebuilding and keeping public trust as critical to success in Monroe.
Monroe Times: OpEd: Views on recent New Glarus School Referendum Failure
Click on the post for a recent OpEd piece in the Monroe Times.
Track Meet Cancelled for 4/27/2007
Coed Varsity Track - Evansville High School @Cambridge Invite on
04/27/2007 at 4:00pm has been Cancelled
04/27/2007 at 4:00pm has been Cancelled
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Dateline Normal, Mn.: "The Second Opinion"----Fiction
In the land of Normal, Mn., that fictional space in Northern, Mn., the issue of whether there really are "Second Opinions" or not is examined. Click on the post.
School Beat: K12Know: High School Prinicpal Writes re: Dane Wourms
Click on the post for the letter written to all high school parents via the K12KNOW alert system regarding the recent death of Dane Wourms.
Minutes: Water and Light Committee: April 25, 2007
Water& Light Committee Meeting
Regular Monthly Meeting
Wednesday April 25,2007
6:30 P.M. At City Hall 31 S. Madison St.
Minutes
Members Present Tom Cothard Chair and John Sornson
Staff: Scott George Superintendent, John Rasmussen foreman and Dan Wietecha City Admin.
Also Present were Laurie Welch and Gary Haltaufderheide from Eco Energy, Bruce Beth and Pete Johnson from Forster Eng., Fred Juergens Alderperson, Sandy Decker Mayor, Kenneth P. Reese Evansville Vet. , Matthew and Jim Haddinger from Haddinger Farms, Eric Kostecki from WPPI and Heidi Carvan from the Public Benefits Comm.
Chairperson Cothard called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M.
Motion by Sornson 2nd by Cothard to approve the March 28, 2007 Water & Light Minutes motion carried 2-0
Citizens concerns Jim and Matt Haddinger expressed concerns about locating Water & Lights new Substation close to their farm on Co. Rd. M and the possible problems it may near a dairy farm create. Ken Reese also spoke about concerns on farms in low-lying areas. Bruce Beth addressed their concerns about substations near farms. After some discussion it was decided to continue with the substation project with construction to begin on or about July 1, 2007.
Eric Kostecki, Laurie Welch and Gary Haltaufdlerheide spoke about the possibility of locating Wind Farms in the area. This was information only and no action taken.
Heidi Carvin from the Public Benefits Comm.
Recommended the W&L Comm. Provide low-income weatherization assistance for a low-income rental house owned by Ed Francois. Heidi requested funding 80% of the approx.$8000.00 project. After some discussion Motion by Cothard 2nd by Sornson to provide 65%funding for the project carried 2-0
Discussion and Motion by Cothard 2nd Sornson to approve bid by Great Lakes line builders in the amount of $165,375.00 for the Co Rd. M Electric rebuild labor carried 2-0
Discussion and Motion by Sornson 2nd by Cothard to approve the bid of Rock Road Companies in the amount of $ 1,292,908.70 for the Improvements and Utility Extensions on Co. Rd. M contingent upon city approved Subcontractor carried 2-0. Comm. indicated there confidence in Globe
Discussion and Motion by Sornson 2nd by Cothard to approve the contract with Litewire for Internet service Carried 2-0
Discussion on Renewable Energy Rider of $ 3.00 per 150 KWH block of power. This is an option available to all Water & Light customers. Information only no action was taken.
Committee Report from Chair Cothard. Tom asked about the disconnect list. Scott informed him that there were 9 to do and they would be done on Thursday Apr.26
Committee Report from Superintendent George. Scott stated that the new water main on West Main St. is in and a safe sample has been received. The contractor has started on the sewer portion.
Motion to adjourn by Sornson 2nd by Cothard at 7:44 P.M.
These minutes are not official until approved by the Water & Light Committee.
Submitted by John A. Rasmussen
Regular Monthly Meeting
Wednesday April 25,2007
6:30 P.M. At City Hall 31 S. Madison St.
Minutes
Members Present Tom Cothard Chair and John Sornson
Staff: Scott George Superintendent, John Rasmussen foreman and Dan Wietecha City Admin.
Also Present were Laurie Welch and Gary Haltaufderheide from Eco Energy, Bruce Beth and Pete Johnson from Forster Eng., Fred Juergens Alderperson, Sandy Decker Mayor, Kenneth P. Reese Evansville Vet. , Matthew and Jim Haddinger from Haddinger Farms, Eric Kostecki from WPPI and Heidi Carvan from the Public Benefits Comm.
Chairperson Cothard called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M.
Motion by Sornson 2nd by Cothard to approve the March 28, 2007 Water & Light Minutes motion carried 2-0
Citizens concerns Jim and Matt Haddinger expressed concerns about locating Water & Lights new Substation close to their farm on Co. Rd. M and the possible problems it may near a dairy farm create. Ken Reese also spoke about concerns on farms in low-lying areas. Bruce Beth addressed their concerns about substations near farms. After some discussion it was decided to continue with the substation project with construction to begin on or about July 1, 2007.
Eric Kostecki, Laurie Welch and Gary Haltaufdlerheide spoke about the possibility of locating Wind Farms in the area. This was information only and no action taken.
Heidi Carvin from the Public Benefits Comm.
Recommended the W&L Comm. Provide low-income weatherization assistance for a low-income rental house owned by Ed Francois. Heidi requested funding 80% of the approx.$8000.00 project. After some discussion Motion by Cothard 2nd by Sornson to provide 65%funding for the project carried 2-0
Discussion and Motion by Cothard 2nd Sornson to approve bid by Great Lakes line builders in the amount of $165,375.00 for the Co Rd. M Electric rebuild labor carried 2-0
Discussion and Motion by Sornson 2nd by Cothard to approve the bid of Rock Road Companies in the amount of $ 1,292,908.70 for the Improvements and Utility Extensions on Co. Rd. M contingent upon city approved Subcontractor carried 2-0. Comm. indicated there confidence in Globe
Discussion and Motion by Sornson 2nd by Cothard to approve the contract with Litewire for Internet service Carried 2-0
Discussion on Renewable Energy Rider of $ 3.00 per 150 KWH block of power. This is an option available to all Water & Light customers. Information only no action was taken.
Committee Report from Chair Cothard. Tom asked about the disconnect list. Scott informed him that there were 9 to do and they would be done on Thursday Apr.26
Committee Report from Superintendent George. Scott stated that the new water main on West Main St. is in and a safe sample has been received. The contractor has started on the sewer portion.
Motion to adjourn by Sornson 2nd by Cothard at 7:44 P.M.
These minutes are not official until approved by the Water & Light Committee.
Submitted by John A. Rasmussen
Star Tribune: Chemicals Concerned 3M 24 Years ago---Lessons on Groundwater Contamination
Click on the post for the article in the Star Tribune which reviews what 3M knew 24 years ago and the slow timeline that led up to the contamination today.
New York Times: States seek limits on "Robocalls"
Local voters are familiar with "robocalls." Limits may be on the way. Stay tuned.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Observer salutes Videogenics for National "Telly Award"
The Evansville Observer congratulates Videogenics of Janesville and their owners, John and Howard Gage for their 2007 Telly Award for the 30 second television commercial for the 2007 Beloit Film Festival. They competed with over 13,000 entries from all 50 states to win this award.
In addition to this award, Videogenics has won awards for other commercials for Marshall Fields as well as TV Guide Networks in 2007, and has won praise from the Observer for their patience in helping this web site in it's development. Bravo.
In addition to this award, Videogenics has won awards for other commercials for Marshall Fields as well as TV Guide Networks in 2007, and has won praise from the Observer for their patience in helping this web site in it's development. Bravo.
Mailbag: Sue Wilbur Writes: On the " Certificate of Destruction"
"Just want to personally invite you to bring your old papers, files, etc that need shredding to the
Energy Fair this Friday 4/27 between 4:30 and 7:30 pm. On Fair St. by the school district office.
UB&T has arranged to have Pelletteri Waste Systems offering free shredding.
You can request a certificate of destruction for your business records."
Energy Fair this Friday 4/27 between 4:30 and 7:30 pm. On Fair St. by the school district office.
UB&T has arranged to have Pelletteri Waste Systems offering free shredding.
You can request a certificate of destruction for your business records."
Gazette Corner: Layoff's for Stoughton Trailers?
Click on the post for the story in today's Janesville Gazette.
School Beat: Evansville School Board Discusses, Approves Donation of Soccer Field Lights
(Ed. note: Full video of this discussion is pending and will be posted on Thursday.)
The Evansville School Board on Monday night was presented with the following information on the soccer field lights:
"The soccer program has been discussing the need for lights on the soccer field for the last three years. We received two proposals in December of 2004; one for $83,000 for total completion of project and one for $45,000 for material and partial installation. Since that time the Soccer Club has been doing some fund-raising and we have all been keeping our eyes out for ways to make the project doable. At one point we were hoping we could rent space on a pole for a cell tower, but that didn't work out. The local soccer group believes they have now found a solution and would like permission to go ahead with the installation.
With a combination of donated labor (over $10,000 from Ron Buttchen alone), used poles that are like new (4 are needed) and the likelihood of reduced costs of the hold-boring/post setting by piggy backing with the equipment that will be in the area for the new electric substation and the biodiesel plant this summer, the cost for the project would go from $83,000 to $55,000.
The soccer group believes they will be able to raise the money over the next several years. They will have a loan available to use until the money is raised. The expenses would be run through the District since this will be district property adn woul dnot need to pay siales tax if we were doing all the work ourselves."...
"This will be a great benefit to our program because it will provide much more flexibility in scheduling games, allow us to have evening games which will allow more community members to attend, and make us even more attractive as a host for other soccer events."
The school board discussed "Who" and "How". They decided that this would have to be a donation by the soccer club secured by a loan they secured. The equipment purchased for the installation would be subject to competitive bid under normal purchasing rules of the district. All funds would have to be in hand before the purchase orders are issued. In summary---this capital expenditure would not come from the taxpayer, although it appears that the taxpayer would be paying for the electricity expense. It is not clear if admission would be charged for the evening games and how the revenues would be allocated. Stay tuned.
The Evansville School Board on Monday night was presented with the following information on the soccer field lights:
"The soccer program has been discussing the need for lights on the soccer field for the last three years. We received two proposals in December of 2004; one for $83,000 for total completion of project and one for $45,000 for material and partial installation. Since that time the Soccer Club has been doing some fund-raising and we have all been keeping our eyes out for ways to make the project doable. At one point we were hoping we could rent space on a pole for a cell tower, but that didn't work out. The local soccer group believes they have now found a solution and would like permission to go ahead with the installation.
With a combination of donated labor (over $10,000 from Ron Buttchen alone), used poles that are like new (4 are needed) and the likelihood of reduced costs of the hold-boring/post setting by piggy backing with the equipment that will be in the area for the new electric substation and the biodiesel plant this summer, the cost for the project would go from $83,000 to $55,000.
The soccer group believes they will be able to raise the money over the next several years. They will have a loan available to use until the money is raised. The expenses would be run through the District since this will be district property adn woul dnot need to pay siales tax if we were doing all the work ourselves."...
"This will be a great benefit to our program because it will provide much more flexibility in scheduling games, allow us to have evening games which will allow more community members to attend, and make us even more attractive as a host for other soccer events."
The school board discussed "Who" and "How". They decided that this would have to be a donation by the soccer club secured by a loan they secured. The equipment purchased for the installation would be subject to competitive bid under normal purchasing rules of the district. All funds would have to be in hand before the purchase orders are issued. In summary---this capital expenditure would not come from the taxpayer, although it appears that the taxpayer would be paying for the electricity expense. It is not clear if admission would be charged for the evening games and how the revenues would be allocated. Stay tuned.
Public Works-Westside Water Issues--4-23-2007
Meeting of Public Works on Monday, 4-23-2007 at Public Works Garage, 6PM, Mason Braunschweig Chair, Ald Juergens, Ald Sornson, City Engineer Dave Sauer, Mr. Wartenmeuller, Mayor Decker, and City Admin Dan Wietecha in attendance--Discussion of recent water event on westside, presentation of Mr. Sauer and questions by public
(Ed. note: Click and drag cursor on yellow square to move back and forth in audio. Click and drag right yellow to control volume. )
(Ed. note: Click and drag cursor on yellow square to move back and forth in audio. Click and drag right yellow to control volume. )
Minutes: Evansville Redevelopment Authority: April 19, 2007
Evansville Redevelopment Authority
Board of Commissioners
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, April 19, 2007, 7:30 pm
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin
MINUTES
Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 7:35 pm by Chair Chris Eager. Present: Chris Eager, Betsy Ahner, Tony Wyse, John Decker, and Tom Calley. Absent: Barbara Jacobson and Roger Roth. Also present: Executive Director Dan Wietecha, Sandy Decker, and Greg Ardisson.
Declare Quorum. There being a majority of the commissioners present at call to order, a quorum was declared by the chair.
Approve Agenda. Calley moved, seconded by Ahner, to approve the agenda as distributed. Motion approved unanimously.
Approve Minutes of March 20, 2007 Meeting. Wyse moved, seconded by Calley, to approve the minutes as distributed. Motion approved unanimously.
Old Business.
Night Owl proposal. Ardisson gave an update of his proposed renovations. Due to monetary factors, he has scaled back his plan even further. He intends to restore the Main Street façade and replace the front windows of the Night Owl building only. There would no longer be a deck or other cantilever on the east side. Some windows on the east side would be exposed; others would be sealed aesthetically. There would also be interior renovations on the main floor. The cost is still estimated around $400,000, and Ardisson will be requesting TIF assistance of about 25%. He again expects to utilize historic tax credits. The committee agreed that it was still an important project for a significant building.
Allen Creek Master Plan RFP. Eager indicated that a master plan would help us to look at the whole parcel rather than a haphazard approach to the area. The committee noted there is some development pressure in the area and further north and it would be beneficial to have a plan out in front of any development.
Wietecha said that four consultants responded to the RFP. Noting an overview memo from City Planner Tim Schwecke, the whole committee discussed the applicants. John Decker made a motion, seconded by Ahner, to schedule interviews with Planning and Design Institute and R.A. Smith and Associates. Eager noted that the interviews as well as approvals by the Finance and Labor Committee and Common Council need to advance quickly so a consultant could be hired at the next meeting.
Main and Church Streets Connection. In answer to a couple questions, Wietecha noted that this is in the Allen Creek Master Plan area. The committee discussed the property around the former Angus Haus site as a key intersection. They said it would be great to have a connection between Main and Church Streets here to help development. The committee discussed the possibility of acquiring rights of first refusal or purchase options in the area to enable a public street.
New Business.
Jan Davis, Century 21. No update.
Main Street Construction Update. We should know more about the grant application for additional bricks in a couple weeks. A related concern is the need to purchase additional bricks. Identical bricks are available in Janesville for some $46,000 to $69,000. The grant may cover this, it could be rolled into the project budget for the street work, or it would be a TIF eligible expenditure.
Other Business. Wietecha gave a brief informational update on the old Roller Rink property and the vacant lot next to it. He also gave a status update on the hotel. It may be premature to discuss the hotel now, but when the project is ready, it will come on quickly. So the committee should be prepared with some of the legal and financial aspects before they are needed.
Adjournment. Ahner moved, seconded by Calley, to adjourn the regular April meeting. Motion approved unanimously at 8:55 pm.
Board of Commissioners
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, April 19, 2007, 7:30 pm
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin
MINUTES
Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 7:35 pm by Chair Chris Eager. Present: Chris Eager, Betsy Ahner, Tony Wyse, John Decker, and Tom Calley. Absent: Barbara Jacobson and Roger Roth. Also present: Executive Director Dan Wietecha, Sandy Decker, and Greg Ardisson.
Declare Quorum. There being a majority of the commissioners present at call to order, a quorum was declared by the chair.
Approve Agenda. Calley moved, seconded by Ahner, to approve the agenda as distributed. Motion approved unanimously.
Approve Minutes of March 20, 2007 Meeting. Wyse moved, seconded by Calley, to approve the minutes as distributed. Motion approved unanimously.
Old Business.
Night Owl proposal. Ardisson gave an update of his proposed renovations. Due to monetary factors, he has scaled back his plan even further. He intends to restore the Main Street façade and replace the front windows of the Night Owl building only. There would no longer be a deck or other cantilever on the east side. Some windows on the east side would be exposed; others would be sealed aesthetically. There would also be interior renovations on the main floor. The cost is still estimated around $400,000, and Ardisson will be requesting TIF assistance of about 25%. He again expects to utilize historic tax credits. The committee agreed that it was still an important project for a significant building.
Allen Creek Master Plan RFP. Eager indicated that a master plan would help us to look at the whole parcel rather than a haphazard approach to the area. The committee noted there is some development pressure in the area and further north and it would be beneficial to have a plan out in front of any development.
Wietecha said that four consultants responded to the RFP. Noting an overview memo from City Planner Tim Schwecke, the whole committee discussed the applicants. John Decker made a motion, seconded by Ahner, to schedule interviews with Planning and Design Institute and R.A. Smith and Associates. Eager noted that the interviews as well as approvals by the Finance and Labor Committee and Common Council need to advance quickly so a consultant could be hired at the next meeting.
Main and Church Streets Connection. In answer to a couple questions, Wietecha noted that this is in the Allen Creek Master Plan area. The committee discussed the property around the former Angus Haus site as a key intersection. They said it would be great to have a connection between Main and Church Streets here to help development. The committee discussed the possibility of acquiring rights of first refusal or purchase options in the area to enable a public street.
New Business.
Jan Davis, Century 21. No update.
Main Street Construction Update. We should know more about the grant application for additional bricks in a couple weeks. A related concern is the need to purchase additional bricks. Identical bricks are available in Janesville for some $46,000 to $69,000. The grant may cover this, it could be rolled into the project budget for the street work, or it would be a TIF eligible expenditure.
Other Business. Wietecha gave a brief informational update on the old Roller Rink property and the vacant lot next to it. He also gave a status update on the hotel. It may be premature to discuss the hotel now, but when the project is ready, it will come on quickly. So the committee should be prepared with some of the legal and financial aspects before they are needed.
Adjournment. Ahner moved, seconded by Calley, to adjourn the regular April meeting. Motion approved unanimously at 8:55 pm.
Agenda: Water and Light:----- Wednesday-- 4-26-2007--- Energy Assistance approvals on Agenda
The regular meeting of the Water & Light Committee for the City of Evansville will be held on the 25th day of April 2007, at 6:30 p.m., third floor City Administrator's office, City Hall, 31 South Madison, Evansville, Wisconsin. Notice is further given that members of the City Council might be in attendance.
Water & Light Committee Meeting
Regular Meeting
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Third floor City Administrator's office, City Hall, 31 South, Evansville, Wisconsin.
6:30 p.m.
Agenda
1. Roll Call
2. Approval of March 28, 2007 Water & Light Minutes
3. Citizens concerns
4. Eric Kostecki of WPPI to speak on EcoEnergy wind farm
5. Recommendation by Public Benefits Committee to provide low-income weatherization assistance for a low-income rental house of Ed Francois
6. Discussion and possible motion on low-income weatherization assistance for a low-income rental house of Ed Francois
7. Discussion and possible motion on bids for County M project
8. Discussion and possible motion on Litewire internet contract
9. Discussion on Renewable Energy Rider of $3.00 per 150kWH block
10. Committee Reports - Chairman Thomas Cothard
11. Committee Reports - Superintendent Scott George
Main Street project update
12. Any other legal action to come before the committee
13. Motion to adjourn
Thomas Cothard
Committee Chairman
Water & Light Committee Meeting
Regular Meeting
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Third floor City Administrator's office, City Hall, 31 South, Evansville, Wisconsin.
6:30 p.m.
Agenda
1. Roll Call
2. Approval of March 28, 2007 Water & Light Minutes
3. Citizens concerns
4. Eric Kostecki of WPPI to speak on EcoEnergy wind farm
5. Recommendation by Public Benefits Committee to provide low-income weatherization assistance for a low-income rental house of Ed Francois
6. Discussion and possible motion on low-income weatherization assistance for a low-income rental house of Ed Francois
7. Discussion and possible motion on bids for County M project
8. Discussion and possible motion on Litewire internet contract
9. Discussion on Renewable Energy Rider of $3.00 per 150kWH block
10. Committee Reports - Chairman Thomas Cothard
11. Committee Reports - Superintendent Scott George
Main Street project update
12. Any other legal action to come before the committee
13. Motion to adjourn
Thomas Cothard
Committee Chairman
Breaking; Full Audio of Public Works Discussion of Westside Water pending
Gavel to Gavel audio of the meeting at Public Works on Monday night will be on the Observer by 9:30AM.
Full hour of presentation by Dave Sauer and questions by citizens. Stay tuned. Full Video of meeting later in the week.
The Evansville Observer. We cover the news.
Full hour of presentation by Dave Sauer and questions by citizens. Stay tuned. Full Video of meeting later in the week.
The Evansville Observer. We cover the news.
Monday, April 23, 2007
School Beat; TONIGHT----5:30PM ---Evansville School Board Rushes to discuss, approve Soccer Lights: The Rush To Approval
The agenda of the Reorganizational Meeting of the Evansville School Board for Monday night has been revised to include a discussion of adding soccer lights.....followed by making this matter an action item for approval by the new board....which was installed just recently.
In wake of the recent school shootings....with many items related to school safety on the capital expenditure list, it is unclear why the panic to first discuss and then immediately approve this expenditure. Much of the discussion of the possible safety expenditures have occurred in the Buildings and Grounds meetings that folks cannot attend because they occur at 7am in the morning.
Last minute, rushed, decision making regarding capital expenditures is not as preferable as considered decision making where the public--- and even the board can ----be informed as to what all the possibilities are:
In light of the recent discussion of the fact that board members should not "overspeak" or "underspeak", the humble Observer would suggest that a little plain speaking is in order.
Here is the revised agenda: The previous agenda is on the agenda blog:
EVANSVILLE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Special Meeting Agenda
Monday, April 23, 2007
High School LMC (2nd Floor) - 640 S. Fifth Street
5:30 P.M.
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: www.evansville.k12.wi.us, and by
forwarding the agenda to the Evansville Review, M&I Bank, Union Bank & Trust and Eager Free
Public Library.
I. Roll Call: Michael Pierick Arthur Phillips Tina Rossmiller
Dennis Hatfield Jeff Herbers
Mike Larson Melissa Hammann
II. Annual Board Reorganization:
A. Election of Officers.
B. Discussion of Committees, Determine Committee Structure, and Make Assignments.
C. Determine Meeting Times and Dates. How Board Members are Notified.
D. Review of:
1. Legal Authority and Duties of Board Members.
2. Open Meetings Law.
3. How Agendas are Set.
4. How Board Meetings are Conducted.
5. Purpose and Structure of Minutes.
E. Role of High School Board Representative.
III. Discussion of Soccer Field Lights.
IV. Business (Action Items):
A. Approval of 2007-2010 Technology Plan.
B. Approval of 2007-08 Teacher Contracts.
C. Approval of Selection for Delegate Representative to CESA 2.
D. Approval of Installation of Soccer Field Lights.
V. Discussion of Board Development and Survey Results.
VI. Adjourn.
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.
Re-Posted: 4/20/07
In wake of the recent school shootings....with many items related to school safety on the capital expenditure list, it is unclear why the panic to first discuss and then immediately approve this expenditure. Much of the discussion of the possible safety expenditures have occurred in the Buildings and Grounds meetings that folks cannot attend because they occur at 7am in the morning.
Last minute, rushed, decision making regarding capital expenditures is not as preferable as considered decision making where the public--- and even the board can ----be informed as to what all the possibilities are:
In light of the recent discussion of the fact that board members should not "overspeak" or "underspeak", the humble Observer would suggest that a little plain speaking is in order.
Here is the revised agenda: The previous agenda is on the agenda blog:
EVANSVILLE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Special Meeting Agenda
Monday, April 23, 2007
High School LMC (2nd Floor) - 640 S. Fifth Street
5:30 P.M.
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: www.evansville.k12.wi.us, and by
forwarding the agenda to the Evansville Review, M&I Bank, Union Bank & Trust and Eager Free
Public Library.
I. Roll Call: Michael Pierick Arthur Phillips Tina Rossmiller
Dennis Hatfield Jeff Herbers
Mike Larson Melissa Hammann
II. Annual Board Reorganization:
A. Election of Officers.
B. Discussion of Committees, Determine Committee Structure, and Make Assignments.
C. Determine Meeting Times and Dates. How Board Members are Notified.
D. Review of:
1. Legal Authority and Duties of Board Members.
2. Open Meetings Law.
3. How Agendas are Set.
4. How Board Meetings are Conducted.
5. Purpose and Structure of Minutes.
E. Role of High School Board Representative.
III. Discussion of Soccer Field Lights.
IV. Business (Action Items):
A. Approval of 2007-2010 Technology Plan.
B. Approval of 2007-08 Teacher Contracts.
C. Approval of Selection for Delegate Representative to CESA 2.
D. Approval of Installation of Soccer Field Lights.
V. Discussion of Board Development and Survey Results.
VI. Adjourn.
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.
Re-Posted: 4/20/07
Gazette Corner; High Speed Chase Ends in Death for Evansville Teen
Click on the post for the latest from the Gazette.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Public Works Meeting Monday Night: 6PM: Will Discuss Water Drainage on Westside--Public Works Garage-(Old Piggly Wiggly)
Agenda: Public Works: Monday April 23, 2007, 6:00PM Public Works Garage; Westside Stormwater Drainage On the Agenda
NOTICE
The regular meeting of the Public Works Committee for the City of Evansville will be held on the 23rd day of April, 2007, at 6:00 p.m., at Public Works Garage, Evansville, Wisconsin. Notice is further given that members of the City Council might be in attendance.
Public Works Committee
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 23 at 6:00 p.m.
Public Works Garage., Evansville, WI
AGENDA
(Revised 4-19-07)
Call the meeting to order
Roll Call
Approve minutes of March 26 Meeting
Citizen appearances
Westside Stormwater Drainage Update
Site Plan Reviews
North Praire Productions Biodiesel Facility - Wastewater Reduction Plan
6. Main Street Reconstruction Update
Construction Progress Report
Evansville Bowl Encroachment onto City Sidewalk
Main Street Construction Schedule
Motion to include additional Brick Paver in Phase II of Main Street Project
Lake Leota Restoration Update
Communications from City Engineer
A. Discussion and Possible Motion to amend City Transportation Plan Map
2007 Public Works Smart Growth Action Action
Transportation #3.1 – 2007 Sidewalk Construction and Repair Plan
Communications of Public Works Director
New Business
Adjourn
Mason Braunschwieg, Chair, Public Works Committee
Posted by Evansville Observer at 2:09 PM 0 comments
NOTICE
The regular meeting of the Public Works Committee for the City of Evansville will be held on the 23rd day of April, 2007, at 6:00 p.m., at Public Works Garage, Evansville, Wisconsin. Notice is further given that members of the City Council might be in attendance.
Public Works Committee
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 23 at 6:00 p.m.
Public Works Garage., Evansville, WI
AGENDA
(Revised 4-19-07)
Call the meeting to order
Roll Call
Approve minutes of March 26 Meeting
Citizen appearances
Westside Stormwater Drainage Update
Site Plan Reviews
North Praire Productions Biodiesel Facility - Wastewater Reduction Plan
6. Main Street Reconstruction Update
Construction Progress Report
Evansville Bowl Encroachment onto City Sidewalk
Main Street Construction Schedule
Motion to include additional Brick Paver in Phase II of Main Street Project
Lake Leota Restoration Update
Communications from City Engineer
A. Discussion and Possible Motion to amend City Transportation Plan Map
2007 Public Works Smart Growth Action Action
Transportation #3.1 – 2007 Sidewalk Construction and Repair Plan
Communications of Public Works Director
New Business
Adjourn
Mason Braunschwieg, Chair, Public Works Committee
Posted by Evansville Observer at 2:09 PM 0 comments
$4 per galllon gasoline?
Click on the post for the speculation on gasoline prices to continue rising.
Gazette: Milton Schools: Lessons Learned on theft of funds
Click on the post for the story in the Gazette on the lessosns learned from the recent theft from Milton School District.
If ever a parent says that they "already paid that fee"----it should be a warning sign to a district that they indeed may have.
Also in the Milton case, there was just one person handling most of the transactions and there was no check on this.
Finally--it might be time for them to find a new auditor.
Click on the post and enjoy.
If ever a parent says that they "already paid that fee"----it should be a warning sign to a district that they indeed may have.
Also in the Milton case, there was just one person handling most of the transactions and there was no check on this.
Finally--it might be time for them to find a new auditor.
Click on the post and enjoy.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Monroe Times: Albany School Beat: Administrative Restructuring Considered
Click on the post for the latest from the Monroe Times.
Althouse Corner: On Blogging: On Comments
Prof. Althouse was at a forum at Dartmouth this week. Click on the post and scroll down to the video of her comments. She talks of "comments" on blogs and getting used to them.
Union: Smart Growth Corner: ---Union Debates Shotliff Application for Residential Development and more....
(Ed. note: The following is a portion of the March 29,2007 minutes of the Union Plan Commission.)
"Discussion and recommendation to Town Board for request by Randy Shotliff, 4215
Winnequah Dr. Monona, WI 53716 for a land division and zoning change to create 22 rural
residential parcels (20 buildable lots and 2 outlots) using 41.65 acres of land from two A1
parcels (#6-20-212 (89.406 acres) & #6-20-211 (33.1 acres)). The remaining 80 some acres
of parcels #6-20-212 and #6-20-211 will then be combined with the A1 parcel #6-20-210
(32.881 acres) to create one large A1 parcel of approximately 114 acres. This land is
located in the NW 1/4 of Section 24 and part of the SW 1/4 of Section 24.
Ron Combs, surveyor, presented a new map which showed 100 residential lots for multiple
phases of “The Meadows.” He also provided responses to “Yes” answers on the Site
Assessment Checklist.
Clarification was made by Ron Combs that a homeowners association would be created when
the preliminary plat map is approved. Covenants would be created by this time as well.
Kim asked if other neighbors have been contacted to see if they would like to include their land
in the proposed subdivision plan. Ron indicated he left a road access to them in a future phase
on the east side.
Heidi Deininger, asked about the Town Board stipulation placed in 1995 to not divide the farm
any further. The attorney stated unless it’s written on the deed, the stipulation is not binding.
Marty Johnson asked what the map looked like at that time. A map was supplied to him.
David Gallman stated seven of the lots border his lot. He recommended the board look at what
is going on with the school district. David stated the board has a moral obligation to look at the
impact the development would have on the school district and taxes.
Jeff Billhorn stated the development is pushing the one mile distance. He questioned the water
table.
Renee Exum asked if the land could handle 100 septic systems. Ron affirmed it could. Renee
asked if it was fair to give all fifty lots to one developer. Currently Randy is asking for 20 lots.
She also brought up the issue of the bio-diesel plant and would like to see sustainable growth.
Town of Union Plan Commission M Page 4 of 6 eeting Minutes -March 29, 2007
George Franklin mentioned the loss of farmland and concern for taxes. He questioned how
putting houses in this location is smart growth.
There was discussion about the map and the intent of long term and short term development
which is still in the text of the Comprehensive Plan.
Public Hearing closed at 9:05 p.m.
Doug noted that the surrounding properties are A1 and A2 properties and that the RR proposed
lots do not fit. He read from a prepared statement:
Reasons to support the application for the Meadows project:
1. Randy Shotliff was an active emember of the Smart Growth Committee, and a I would like
to support him and see him do well in our community.
2. Locating a subdivision to the east of Evansville is preferable to adding more growth to the
already overdeveloped west.
3. It is always better to be ablet o say yes, expecially wen an applicant has already engaged
a lawyer.
Reasons to deny the application:
1. This application is for the first phase of a development plan that will make a major and
unneded change in this predominantly rural area of the township. The Comprehensive
Plan’s “primary intent” is “to promote the kind of frowth that would maintain the small rural
atmosphere that 90% of the residents said they like about living in the Town of Union.” I
believe that this project would diminish, not maintain, that valued rural atmosphere. The
property proposed for RR development is surrounded by A-1 and A-2 zoned land, some of
it residential and some farmland. The effect of a rural residential subdivision in the center
of this area will promote a cascade of applications for land division and development of
these properties. I have been told that at least one of these properties is already for sale
because the landwoner is anticipating an approval of this application that will change the
character of his property.
2. An objective of the plan is “to encourage development adjacent to already developed
areas.”
There are lands more adjacent that can be developed. The land being proposed
for development now was seen in the planning to be suitable for development near the
end of the twenty-year period of the plan.
3. While there is some development nearby that has lots sizes similar to those proposed, this
existing development is primarily on land of a character and topography that would be
much to the south of Territorial Road, and there is remaining land for development south
of Territorial Road, so there is no need to move to the north of the orad at this time.
4. Union Township residents that have spoken or written about this proposed development
have commented on the negative effect this development would have on the loss of
farmland and of the rural character of the area.
When I reflected on these reasons why I would vote to approve or deny, I realized that the reasons
to approve were ones of interest to me personally while the reasons to deny were in the interests of
the township – my job here is to support the interests of the township so far as I can.
Kim Gruebling noted the positives of this being a large scale development. Kim mentioned a
builder’s agreement and the fact that change is inevitable.
Mike Exum noted the town’s attorney recommended the Commission get more information
before making the decision including asking for: covenants, City of Evansville extraterritorial
zoning approval, county approval, and perk test results. Alvin voiced concern over the
practicality of getting all of those ahead of time.
Mike Exum added comments about getting tax base data as well.
Marty Johnson stated that when they looked at this particular land area for the map, they felt
other land should fill in earlier. He would like to see more information on the traffic impact and
whether we can accommodate the traffic.
Town of Union Plan Commission M Page 5 of 6 eeting Minutes -March 29, 2007
Eric Larson looked at the scoring sheets and stated it scored well on location. He does have
concern with this land being agriculture land. He is also concerned about the number of lots
being 20.
Reference was made to Zoning Code Section 17.20 and the requirements listed for considering
an application.
It was noted that the traffic study provided did not take into consideration the current traffic nor
the overall development traffic. Marty Johnson would like to know the effect of the additional
traffic.
Motion by Marty Johnson to postpone a decision on this application until the requirements
identified in Section 17.20 be provided in written format and that more information be provided
including house square footage, a draft of the covenants and homeowner’s association
documents and to have City of Evansville approval, county highway approval, and modifications
to the development map to include recommended park/trails as shared by the Parks and Trails
Committee. Second by Eric Larson. Motion approved 5-2. Alvin Francis and Rich Templeton
voting no.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Greg’s Hofmeister’s comments on his review of the plan are desired by the Commission.
Conditional Use Permit Review for Tom & Connie Davis 10608 N. East Union Rd.
Evansville, WI 53536 to operate a pheasant shooting preserve on parcel 6-20-94 located
along North East Union Rd. in the SW 1/4, NE 1/4 of Section of the Town of Union. The
pheasant preserve may be open by appointment only between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5
p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. on
Sundays beginning October 1st and ending April 30th. Hunting may commence at the
east-west property line which is approximately 1,400 feet from the south property line.
Kim Gruebling questioned the use of the lodge for weddings and the expansion of use. George
stated Tom’s neighbor would like to see this continue as a conditional use. Marty Johnson
asked for clarity on the use of the lodge. (An ad in the phone book advertises for “lodge
bookings.” Tom Davis stated he does not provide any booze nor beer to the patrons. He noted
however; that they are allowed to bring their own alcohol. Doug Zweizig received clarification
from Tom that the hunting stops at 5 p.m. but use of the lodge continues after that until 10 p.m.
Kim moved to approve the condition use permit for Tom & Connie Davis 10608 N. East Union
Rd. Evansville, WI 53536 to operate a pheasant shooting preserve on parcel 6-20-94 located
along North East Union Rd. in the SW 1/4, NE 1/4 of Section of the Town of Union. The
pheasant preserve may be open by appointment only between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays
beginning October 1st and ending April 30th. Hunting may commence at the east-west property
line which is approximately 1,400 feet from the south property line. This permit is to be
reviewed by the Plan Commission at a public hearing to be held at the March 2008 meeting.
Upon review, the Plan Commission can extend the permit or deny extending the permit based
on performance criteria stipulated in the permit and any other issues brought to the attention of
the Plan Commission. Failure to request board review prior to the review date will void this
Conditional Use Permit and cause the party to fully reapply for a new conditional use permit.
This conditional use permit is non-transferrable. Second by Eric Larson.
Discussion ensued with Tom asking about if he could not operate under a conditional use
permit and just having hunting during DNR season.
Mike Exum moved to amend the motion to include that lodge usage ends at 10 p.m. Second by
"Discussion and recommendation to Town Board for request by Randy Shotliff, 4215
Winnequah Dr. Monona, WI 53716 for a land division and zoning change to create 22 rural
residential parcels (20 buildable lots and 2 outlots) using 41.65 acres of land from two A1
parcels (#6-20-212 (89.406 acres) & #6-20-211 (33.1 acres)). The remaining 80 some acres
of parcels #6-20-212 and #6-20-211 will then be combined with the A1 parcel #6-20-210
(32.881 acres) to create one large A1 parcel of approximately 114 acres. This land is
located in the NW 1/4 of Section 24 and part of the SW 1/4 of Section 24.
Ron Combs, surveyor, presented a new map which showed 100 residential lots for multiple
phases of “The Meadows.” He also provided responses to “Yes” answers on the Site
Assessment Checklist.
Clarification was made by Ron Combs that a homeowners association would be created when
the preliminary plat map is approved. Covenants would be created by this time as well.
Kim asked if other neighbors have been contacted to see if they would like to include their land
in the proposed subdivision plan. Ron indicated he left a road access to them in a future phase
on the east side.
Heidi Deininger, asked about the Town Board stipulation placed in 1995 to not divide the farm
any further. The attorney stated unless it’s written on the deed, the stipulation is not binding.
Marty Johnson asked what the map looked like at that time. A map was supplied to him.
David Gallman stated seven of the lots border his lot. He recommended the board look at what
is going on with the school district. David stated the board has a moral obligation to look at the
impact the development would have on the school district and taxes.
Jeff Billhorn stated the development is pushing the one mile distance. He questioned the water
table.
Renee Exum asked if the land could handle 100 septic systems. Ron affirmed it could. Renee
asked if it was fair to give all fifty lots to one developer. Currently Randy is asking for 20 lots.
She also brought up the issue of the bio-diesel plant and would like to see sustainable growth.
Town of Union Plan Commission M Page 4 of 6 eeting Minutes -March 29, 2007
George Franklin mentioned the loss of farmland and concern for taxes. He questioned how
putting houses in this location is smart growth.
There was discussion about the map and the intent of long term and short term development
which is still in the text of the Comprehensive Plan.
Public Hearing closed at 9:05 p.m.
Doug noted that the surrounding properties are A1 and A2 properties and that the RR proposed
lots do not fit. He read from a prepared statement:
Reasons to support the application for the Meadows project:
1. Randy Shotliff was an active emember of the Smart Growth Committee, and a I would like
to support him and see him do well in our community.
2. Locating a subdivision to the east of Evansville is preferable to adding more growth to the
already overdeveloped west.
3. It is always better to be ablet o say yes, expecially wen an applicant has already engaged
a lawyer.
Reasons to deny the application:
1. This application is for the first phase of a development plan that will make a major and
unneded change in this predominantly rural area of the township. The Comprehensive
Plan’s “primary intent” is “to promote the kind of frowth that would maintain the small rural
atmosphere that 90% of the residents said they like about living in the Town of Union.” I
believe that this project would diminish, not maintain, that valued rural atmosphere. The
property proposed for RR development is surrounded by A-1 and A-2 zoned land, some of
it residential and some farmland. The effect of a rural residential subdivision in the center
of this area will promote a cascade of applications for land division and development of
these properties. I have been told that at least one of these properties is already for sale
because the landwoner is anticipating an approval of this application that will change the
character of his property.
2. An objective of the plan is “to encourage development adjacent to already developed
areas.”
There are lands more adjacent that can be developed. The land being proposed
for development now was seen in the planning to be suitable for development near the
end of the twenty-year period of the plan.
3. While there is some development nearby that has lots sizes similar to those proposed, this
existing development is primarily on land of a character and topography that would be
much to the south of Territorial Road, and there is remaining land for development south
of Territorial Road, so there is no need to move to the north of the orad at this time.
4. Union Township residents that have spoken or written about this proposed development
have commented on the negative effect this development would have on the loss of
farmland and of the rural character of the area.
When I reflected on these reasons why I would vote to approve or deny, I realized that the reasons
to approve were ones of interest to me personally while the reasons to deny were in the interests of
the township – my job here is to support the interests of the township so far as I can.
Kim Gruebling noted the positives of this being a large scale development. Kim mentioned a
builder’s agreement and the fact that change is inevitable.
Mike Exum noted the town’s attorney recommended the Commission get more information
before making the decision including asking for: covenants, City of Evansville extraterritorial
zoning approval, county approval, and perk test results. Alvin voiced concern over the
practicality of getting all of those ahead of time.
Mike Exum added comments about getting tax base data as well.
Marty Johnson stated that when they looked at this particular land area for the map, they felt
other land should fill in earlier. He would like to see more information on the traffic impact and
whether we can accommodate the traffic.
Town of Union Plan Commission M Page 5 of 6 eeting Minutes -March 29, 2007
Eric Larson looked at the scoring sheets and stated it scored well on location. He does have
concern with this land being agriculture land. He is also concerned about the number of lots
being 20.
Reference was made to Zoning Code Section 17.20 and the requirements listed for considering
an application.
It was noted that the traffic study provided did not take into consideration the current traffic nor
the overall development traffic. Marty Johnson would like to know the effect of the additional
traffic.
Motion by Marty Johnson to postpone a decision on this application until the requirements
identified in Section 17.20 be provided in written format and that more information be provided
including house square footage, a draft of the covenants and homeowner’s association
documents and to have City of Evansville approval, county highway approval, and modifications
to the development map to include recommended park/trails as shared by the Parks and Trails
Committee. Second by Eric Larson. Motion approved 5-2. Alvin Francis and Rich Templeton
voting no.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Greg’s Hofmeister’s comments on his review of the plan are desired by the Commission.
Conditional Use Permit Review for Tom & Connie Davis 10608 N. East Union Rd.
Evansville, WI 53536 to operate a pheasant shooting preserve on parcel 6-20-94 located
along North East Union Rd. in the SW 1/4, NE 1/4 of Section of the Town of Union. The
pheasant preserve may be open by appointment only between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5
p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. on
Sundays beginning October 1st and ending April 30th. Hunting may commence at the
east-west property line which is approximately 1,400 feet from the south property line.
Kim Gruebling questioned the use of the lodge for weddings and the expansion of use. George
stated Tom’s neighbor would like to see this continue as a conditional use. Marty Johnson
asked for clarity on the use of the lodge. (An ad in the phone book advertises for “lodge
bookings.” Tom Davis stated he does not provide any booze nor beer to the patrons. He noted
however; that they are allowed to bring their own alcohol. Doug Zweizig received clarification
from Tom that the hunting stops at 5 p.m. but use of the lodge continues after that until 10 p.m.
Kim moved to approve the condition use permit for Tom & Connie Davis 10608 N. East Union
Rd. Evansville, WI 53536 to operate a pheasant shooting preserve on parcel 6-20-94 located
along North East Union Rd. in the SW 1/4, NE 1/4 of Section of the Town of Union. The
pheasant preserve may be open by appointment only between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays
beginning October 1st and ending April 30th. Hunting may commence at the east-west property
line which is approximately 1,400 feet from the south property line. This permit is to be
reviewed by the Plan Commission at a public hearing to be held at the March 2008 meeting.
Upon review, the Plan Commission can extend the permit or deny extending the permit based
on performance criteria stipulated in the permit and any other issues brought to the attention of
the Plan Commission. Failure to request board review prior to the review date will void this
Conditional Use Permit and cause the party to fully reapply for a new conditional use permit.
This conditional use permit is non-transferrable. Second by Eric Larson.
Discussion ensued with Tom asking about if he could not operate under a conditional use
permit and just having hunting during DNR season.
Mike Exum moved to amend the motion to include that lodge usage ends at 10 p.m. Second by
Washington Post: No Child Left Behind Program being investigated by Feds
Click on the post for the article in the Washington Post regarding possible cronyism and conflict of interest in the Reading First program. Stay tuned.
Dateline China: Shanghai Auto Show: New Alternative Fuel vehicles introduced
Citizens from Evanville who have travelled to China recently have remarked about two things---the stunning growth of China which is present in each block of buildings---there is new construction everywhere. Beautiful Black Mercedes motor cars are right alongside century old wagons. The disparity of things is striking.
The other thing that is striking is the pollution. Because of the rapid pace of industrial growth, the air quality is poor. The Chinese government is moving to impose standards on cars and that involves the encouragement of fuel efficient vehicles and alternative fuel vehicles.
Click on the post for the story in the New York Times.
The other thing that is striking is the pollution. Because of the rapid pace of industrial growth, the air quality is poor. The Chinese government is moving to impose standards on cars and that involves the encouragement of fuel efficient vehicles and alternative fuel vehicles.
Click on the post for the story in the New York Times.
Cap Times: Business: Midwest the Saudi Arabia of Biomass? From corn to cow manure
Click on the post for an article in the CapTimes that expands on the notion presented by Gov.Doyle in his groundbreaking ceremony speech here in Evansville for the biodiesel plant---namely that Wisconsin and the Midwest can be the new Saudi Arabia of alternative energy.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Dateline Normal: The Olympic School Bus Ride---Energy Fair Comes to Normal
Click on the post for the latest from the fictional land of Normal, Mn.. Only in Normal, Mn. would packing school busses be an Olympic event. Enjoy.
Slate: The AG trip to the Hill goes bad
Click on the post for Slate and their story about our AG. The story never seems to end.
One Laptop Per Child---The History
Click on the post for the background of this program which is being implemented in the developing world.
Minutes: Traditional Neighborhood Design: March 27,2007
City of Evansville
Tradition Neighborhood / Residential Design Committee
Subcommittee of Evansville Plan Commission
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, March 27, 2007, 6:00 pm
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin
MINUTES
Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm by Bill Hammann. Present: Bill Hammann, Gil Skinner, Tony Wyse, and Carolyn Uren. Absent: Mason Braunschweig, Sharel Surles, and Gwen Walker. Also present: Brad Fahlgren, Tim Schwecke, Dan Wietecha, Sandy Decker (arrived 6:55), and Bill Connors (6:57 to 7:02).
Approve Agenda. The agenda, as distributed, was approved without objection.
Review of Initial Draft of Code.
Design Standards. Tim Schwecke gave a brief overview of the committee’s interest in adopting some architectural standards to encourage greater variety and enhance the curb appeal of new housing, particularly in starter homes. He noted that the committee wants input from developers and contractors. Brad Fahlgren asked what other cities have similar standards rather the private market to control something typically addressed in private covenants. Schwecke said not many cities have taken this approach but that it is more common in fast-growing communities.
Fahlgren said that a lot of the local contractors are questioning if this is an appropriate role for the city. Bill Hammann noted that the city council and plan commission have heard some negative comments about the appearance of starter home neighborhoods, particularly on the west side. Tony Wyse said that the desire is to give builders options for better variety, not to dictate the specific aesthetics.
Schwecke noted that Capstone Ridge, which started about the same time as the Smart Growth planning, is a bit of a model for this effort. With the development agreement there and the covenants they’ve adopted, it has had more curb appeal and diversity of housing. It was noted that that those are larger homes than the starter homes mentioned earlier.
Carolyn Uren noted that variety could most easily be achieved by simply using different colors of siding. Falhgren added that the roofline could easily be changed on most house plans with little added cost. Uren and Fahlgren indicated that adding even $1500 is a significant amount in the pricing of a starter home. Uren said that when the builder knows the exact cost to build a specific house it has the potential for a cookie-cutter approach to construction.
Wyse indicated that was an added concern he had. If some combination of four or five features was the cheapest way to 100 points, then we may see all houses built with the same short list of features and not achieve the variety going down the street. It was noted that dividing the list into groups and requiring a selection from each group could help in avoiding the same choice of the four cheapest features.
Fahlgren asked about the possibility of reducing permit or impact fees as an incentive for houses to be built with extra details. Hammann noted that those fees help cover actual expenses incurred by the city for the construction.
Fahlgren agreed to review the list and put some cost estimates to the different items to assist in setting point values. He noted that some of the features (such as different rooflines) may not add much cost if the builder plans for it.
Dan Wietecha noted that the architectural design menu is only one part of the committee’s draft ordinance. Another part of the ordinance would enforce variety be requiring identical exterior elevations to be spaced at least four lots apart. Another proposal is for some restrictions on the position and extension of front-loaded garages in front of the house façade. Uren said there is insufficient room for side-loaded garages on typical city lots. Fahlgren added that the truss engineering and the design of a starter home floor plan limit how much can be done to avoid the snout-nose effect.
Accessible Housing. Schwecke introduced a draft ordinance for accessible housing construction. The ordinance would require developers to designate 20% of the lots in new developments to have no-step entries and necessary turning radii to make the homes readily ADA-accessible. Fahlgren said the additional costs would not be too high as most of the requirements such as the no-step entry could be planned before construction. Uren noted that some of the features like 36-inch doors would have a general appeal to any homebuyer.
Meeting Reminder. The next meeting is Tuesday, April 24, at 6:00 pm.
Adjournment. Without further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:18 pm.
Tradition Neighborhood / Residential Design Committee
Subcommittee of Evansville Plan Commission
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, March 27, 2007, 6:00 pm
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin
MINUTES
Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm by Bill Hammann. Present: Bill Hammann, Gil Skinner, Tony Wyse, and Carolyn Uren. Absent: Mason Braunschweig, Sharel Surles, and Gwen Walker. Also present: Brad Fahlgren, Tim Schwecke, Dan Wietecha, Sandy Decker (arrived 6:55), and Bill Connors (6:57 to 7:02).
Approve Agenda. The agenda, as distributed, was approved without objection.
Review of Initial Draft of Code.
Design Standards. Tim Schwecke gave a brief overview of the committee’s interest in adopting some architectural standards to encourage greater variety and enhance the curb appeal of new housing, particularly in starter homes. He noted that the committee wants input from developers and contractors. Brad Fahlgren asked what other cities have similar standards rather the private market to control something typically addressed in private covenants. Schwecke said not many cities have taken this approach but that it is more common in fast-growing communities.
Fahlgren said that a lot of the local contractors are questioning if this is an appropriate role for the city. Bill Hammann noted that the city council and plan commission have heard some negative comments about the appearance of starter home neighborhoods, particularly on the west side. Tony Wyse said that the desire is to give builders options for better variety, not to dictate the specific aesthetics.
Schwecke noted that Capstone Ridge, which started about the same time as the Smart Growth planning, is a bit of a model for this effort. With the development agreement there and the covenants they’ve adopted, it has had more curb appeal and diversity of housing. It was noted that that those are larger homes than the starter homes mentioned earlier.
Carolyn Uren noted that variety could most easily be achieved by simply using different colors of siding. Falhgren added that the roofline could easily be changed on most house plans with little added cost. Uren and Fahlgren indicated that adding even $1500 is a significant amount in the pricing of a starter home. Uren said that when the builder knows the exact cost to build a specific house it has the potential for a cookie-cutter approach to construction.
Wyse indicated that was an added concern he had. If some combination of four or five features was the cheapest way to 100 points, then we may see all houses built with the same short list of features and not achieve the variety going down the street. It was noted that dividing the list into groups and requiring a selection from each group could help in avoiding the same choice of the four cheapest features.
Fahlgren asked about the possibility of reducing permit or impact fees as an incentive for houses to be built with extra details. Hammann noted that those fees help cover actual expenses incurred by the city for the construction.
Fahlgren agreed to review the list and put some cost estimates to the different items to assist in setting point values. He noted that some of the features (such as different rooflines) may not add much cost if the builder plans for it.
Dan Wietecha noted that the architectural design menu is only one part of the committee’s draft ordinance. Another part of the ordinance would enforce variety be requiring identical exterior elevations to be spaced at least four lots apart. Another proposal is for some restrictions on the position and extension of front-loaded garages in front of the house façade. Uren said there is insufficient room for side-loaded garages on typical city lots. Fahlgren added that the truss engineering and the design of a starter home floor plan limit how much can be done to avoid the snout-nose effect.
Accessible Housing. Schwecke introduced a draft ordinance for accessible housing construction. The ordinance would require developers to designate 20% of the lots in new developments to have no-step entries and necessary turning radii to make the homes readily ADA-accessible. Fahlgren said the additional costs would not be too high as most of the requirements such as the no-step entry could be planned before construction. Uren noted that some of the features like 36-inch doors would have a general appeal to any homebuyer.
Meeting Reminder. The next meeting is Tuesday, April 24, at 6:00 pm.
Adjournment. Without further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:18 pm.
Gazette Corner: Legislators deadlock on SAGE audit
Click on the post for the article in the Janesville Gazette.
Minutes: Evansville Park Board; April 16, 2007
City of Evansville, Wisconsin
Park and Recreation Board Regular Monthly Meeting
Evansville City Hall Council Chambers
April 16, 2007
Draft Minutes
1. Call to Order at 6:03 PM and Roll Call: Chair Juergens & members Farnsworth, Krueger, Merritt, Sendelbach present.� Member Carlsen excused. Member Jacobson absent. �Staff member Anderson present; �staff member Hamacher absent.
2. Minutes of March 19, 2007 meeting were unanimously approved on a voice vote.
3. The agenda for this meeting unanimously approved without alteration on a voice vote.
4. Citizen Appearances: None
5.� S.O.LE. Committee Report
����������� Gib Wiedenhoeft of SOLE reported through a telephone call to the chair that SOLE is continuing to work re: funding requests for lake restoration to both Senator Kohl�s and Congresswoman Baldwin�s office.� He also reported that a representative of the Army Corps of Engineers� Milwaukee office would be visiting Lake Leota in early May to assess the possibility of the Corps� participation in lake restoration.� City Administrator Wietecha, as well as members of SOLE, will be present when this representative is in Evansville
6. Discussion of Summer Baseball-Softball Policy
����������� a. The chair noted that City Ordinance gives the PRB the authority to supervise the management of �Little League programs�. �He reported that after discussion with Wietecha, it was not felt that a formal legal opinion from the City Attorney was required on the issue of who should play in the American League, that PRB could make a decision. He presented drafts of letters to Little League Director Katzenmeyer and A League of Their Own Director Hermanson to the board for discussion.� After discussion, Farnsworth moved, Krueger seconded to send the letters out, which, among other items, invite the directors to the May PRB meeting for policy discussions.� Motion passed unanimously.
����������� b. Farnsworth moved, Krueger seconded to welcome all 10-year olds of both genders to play in the American League for this year 2007 only.� Motion passed unanimously.� It was suggested that this motion be added to the letters mentioned above, and that policy for 2008 and beyond on this issue be part of the May PRB meeting agenda.
7. Discussion with representatives of the McKenna School group regarding the skate park.
����������� a. The chair recognized Brandon Frank, a staff member at McKenna Middle School and advisor to the Skate Club.� He and four members of the Skate Club presented a revised contract to be signed by those who wish to join the club.� The members are planning to have �sign-ups� at several coming public events in Evansville.� The club is considering a laminate pass rather than a wristband because of cost.� 14 adults have volunteered to supervise the skate park, and a schedule of when the park will be supervised by adults will be drawn up before the park opens. Two of those adults, Tina and David Rossmiller, were in attendance, in support of the skate club.� The club intends to publish this schedule in the Review, so that parents will know when the park is supervised.� Frank said that the schedule would also be given to the Police Department, so that the police might �cruise� the skate park area a bit more frequently when parents are not there.� Frank and club members requested that the park not be opened until the officers feel that the club is sufficiently well organized and has enough committed members and parents to have the skate park be a wholesome environment for the community.
����������� b. Krueger moved and Merritt seconded that the equipment be moved back onto the asphalt and the skate park opened only when the club requests it.� During discussion of the motion, Frank and club members expressed their hope that this would occur in early May at the latest.� The motion passed unanimously.�
8. Chair�s report on any actions of City Committees and Common Council on items of interest to PRB:
� �� �� �� �At its most recent meeting the Public Works Committee authorized the Public Works Department (PWD) in cooperation with the Evansville Fire Department to burn the dead vegetation off Lake Leota.� The burn was attempted within the last two weeks, but it failed, because the vegetation would not continue to burn.�
9.� Reports/Updates on Pending Park Projects & Maintenance: Park Maintenance Supervisor Ray Anderson
a.�Lake Leota Park:� PWD has decided to re-screen the lower diamond.� A current quote to similarly repair the upper diamond is deemed too high, and further quotes will be sought or the project postponed.� It is expected that 25-50 trees will be planted in the park this summer, including arbor vitae to screen the view of the Symdon parking lot from the pool area.� Last year�s offer from Symdon Chevrolet to donate $500 to this project is still good.
b.� Franklin Park: Mr. Kostroun requested further information from the architect on materials specifications prior to giving a price on construction of the shelter/gateway.� The chair will contact the architect to get the information requested. Trees and fence have been removed.� Member Merritt requested that, if the concrete pad at the basketball court is big enough, free-throw lines be painted on the concrete.�
c.� Countryside Park: Restroom construction is expected to resume later this week.� Merritt made a similar request for basketball court free-throw lines here.�
d.� West Side Park: the new mower has been purchased.� It still needs some assembly, and will be ready when the grass-cutting season begins.�
e.� other projects, if any:� Member Sendelbach requested that water be turned on and bathrooms be opened at Lake Leota park this week, because some school classes will be coming to assist in cleaning up the park.� These facilities are important for the children.
10.� Aquatic Report: Pool Director Rick Hamacher
� �� �� �� �Since the director was absent, the chair reported on a previous conversation between them.� The director assured the chair that the new solar panels will be in and working when the pool opens.�
11.�� Old Business
����������� a. The chair reported that the Primetimers are considering a garden club, but that one is not active yet.� The director of the Sr. Center believes having a club focus on caring for city parks and plantings would give direction to the club, and will let the chair know when and if a club is organized.
����������� b.� Tree planting in Lake Leota Park was discussed earlier.� The chair reported that after conversation with Public Works Director, it was decided not to pursue moving trees from Main Street to the park.� The �street� trees were judged not to be suitable for the park.
12. New Business
����������� a. There was discussion of another public hearing to determine citizens� priorities 2008�s improvements to the West Side Park.� It was concluded that the current 5-year plan is adequate, since it projects building a playground and parking area in 2008.� It was decided by consensus, without a motion, not to hold a public hearing.
����������� b. Member Sendelbach requested that the exact location of the easement for access to the West Side Park from Porter Road be plotted on a map of the park and made available to PRB.� This will be done prior to the May PRB meeting.
����������� c.� The May meeting of the PRB will be on May 21st, 2007 at 6 PM at City Hall.
13.� Motion to Adjourn (Jacobson, Farnsworth) approved at 6:51 pm.
�
Minutes drafted by Fred Juergens on April 20, 2007.� Minutes are not official until approved at a subsequent meeting of the PRB.
�
Fred Juergens, Chair: Park and Recreation Board
City of Evansville, Wisconsin
401 Badger Drive
Evansville
882-2489
Park and Recreation Board Regular Monthly Meeting
Evansville City Hall Council Chambers
April 16, 2007
Draft Minutes
1. Call to Order at 6:03 PM and Roll Call: Chair Juergens & members Farnsworth, Krueger, Merritt, Sendelbach present.� Member Carlsen excused. Member Jacobson absent. �Staff member Anderson present; �staff member Hamacher absent.
2. Minutes of March 19, 2007 meeting were unanimously approved on a voice vote.
3. The agenda for this meeting unanimously approved without alteration on a voice vote.
4. Citizen Appearances: None
5.� S.O.LE. Committee Report
����������� Gib Wiedenhoeft of SOLE reported through a telephone call to the chair that SOLE is continuing to work re: funding requests for lake restoration to both Senator Kohl�s and Congresswoman Baldwin�s office.� He also reported that a representative of the Army Corps of Engineers� Milwaukee office would be visiting Lake Leota in early May to assess the possibility of the Corps� participation in lake restoration.� City Administrator Wietecha, as well as members of SOLE, will be present when this representative is in Evansville
6. Discussion of Summer Baseball-Softball Policy
����������� a. The chair noted that City Ordinance gives the PRB the authority to supervise the management of �Little League programs�. �He reported that after discussion with Wietecha, it was not felt that a formal legal opinion from the City Attorney was required on the issue of who should play in the American League, that PRB could make a decision. He presented drafts of letters to Little League Director Katzenmeyer and A League of Their Own Director Hermanson to the board for discussion.� After discussion, Farnsworth moved, Krueger seconded to send the letters out, which, among other items, invite the directors to the May PRB meeting for policy discussions.� Motion passed unanimously.
����������� b. Farnsworth moved, Krueger seconded to welcome all 10-year olds of both genders to play in the American League for this year 2007 only.� Motion passed unanimously.� It was suggested that this motion be added to the letters mentioned above, and that policy for 2008 and beyond on this issue be part of the May PRB meeting agenda.
7. Discussion with representatives of the McKenna School group regarding the skate park.
����������� a. The chair recognized Brandon Frank, a staff member at McKenna Middle School and advisor to the Skate Club.� He and four members of the Skate Club presented a revised contract to be signed by those who wish to join the club.� The members are planning to have �sign-ups� at several coming public events in Evansville.� The club is considering a laminate pass rather than a wristband because of cost.� 14 adults have volunteered to supervise the skate park, and a schedule of when the park will be supervised by adults will be drawn up before the park opens. Two of those adults, Tina and David Rossmiller, were in attendance, in support of the skate club.� The club intends to publish this schedule in the Review, so that parents will know when the park is supervised.� Frank said that the schedule would also be given to the Police Department, so that the police might �cruise� the skate park area a bit more frequently when parents are not there.� Frank and club members requested that the park not be opened until the officers feel that the club is sufficiently well organized and has enough committed members and parents to have the skate park be a wholesome environment for the community.
����������� b. Krueger moved and Merritt seconded that the equipment be moved back onto the asphalt and the skate park opened only when the club requests it.� During discussion of the motion, Frank and club members expressed their hope that this would occur in early May at the latest.� The motion passed unanimously.�
8. Chair�s report on any actions of City Committees and Common Council on items of interest to PRB:
� �� �� �� �At its most recent meeting the Public Works Committee authorized the Public Works Department (PWD) in cooperation with the Evansville Fire Department to burn the dead vegetation off Lake Leota.� The burn was attempted within the last two weeks, but it failed, because the vegetation would not continue to burn.�
9.� Reports/Updates on Pending Park Projects & Maintenance: Park Maintenance Supervisor Ray Anderson
a.�Lake Leota Park:� PWD has decided to re-screen the lower diamond.� A current quote to similarly repair the upper diamond is deemed too high, and further quotes will be sought or the project postponed.� It is expected that 25-50 trees will be planted in the park this summer, including arbor vitae to screen the view of the Symdon parking lot from the pool area.� Last year�s offer from Symdon Chevrolet to donate $500 to this project is still good.
b.� Franklin Park: Mr. Kostroun requested further information from the architect on materials specifications prior to giving a price on construction of the shelter/gateway.� The chair will contact the architect to get the information requested. Trees and fence have been removed.� Member Merritt requested that, if the concrete pad at the basketball court is big enough, free-throw lines be painted on the concrete.�
c.� Countryside Park: Restroom construction is expected to resume later this week.� Merritt made a similar request for basketball court free-throw lines here.�
d.� West Side Park: the new mower has been purchased.� It still needs some assembly, and will be ready when the grass-cutting season begins.�
e.� other projects, if any:� Member Sendelbach requested that water be turned on and bathrooms be opened at Lake Leota park this week, because some school classes will be coming to assist in cleaning up the park.� These facilities are important for the children.
10.� Aquatic Report: Pool Director Rick Hamacher
� �� �� �� �Since the director was absent, the chair reported on a previous conversation between them.� The director assured the chair that the new solar panels will be in and working when the pool opens.�
11.�� Old Business
����������� a. The chair reported that the Primetimers are considering a garden club, but that one is not active yet.� The director of the Sr. Center believes having a club focus on caring for city parks and plantings would give direction to the club, and will let the chair know when and if a club is organized.
����������� b.� Tree planting in Lake Leota Park was discussed earlier.� The chair reported that after conversation with Public Works Director, it was decided not to pursue moving trees from Main Street to the park.� The �street� trees were judged not to be suitable for the park.
12. New Business
����������� a. There was discussion of another public hearing to determine citizens� priorities 2008�s improvements to the West Side Park.� It was concluded that the current 5-year plan is adequate, since it projects building a playground and parking area in 2008.� It was decided by consensus, without a motion, not to hold a public hearing.
����������� b. Member Sendelbach requested that the exact location of the easement for access to the West Side Park from Porter Road be plotted on a map of the park and made available to PRB.� This will be done prior to the May PRB meeting.
����������� c.� The May meeting of the PRB will be on May 21st, 2007 at 6 PM at City Hall.
13.� Motion to Adjourn (Jacobson, Farnsworth) approved at 6:51 pm.
�
Minutes drafted by Fred Juergens on April 20, 2007.� Minutes are not official until approved at a subsequent meeting of the PRB.
�
Fred Juergens, Chair: Park and Recreation Board
City of Evansville, Wisconsin
401 Badger Drive
Evansville
882-2489
New Evansville Council Installed----the Audio
Gavel to Gavel coverage: New Alderman sworn in; Bill Hammann steps down after two terms; Barb Jacobson assumes council seat: Mason Braunschweig elected President of Council unanimously. Mason elected Chair of Public Works. etcetc. Ord. revision first reading changing composition of Plan Comission to have city engineer as non-voting advisory role.
Althouse Corner: On Dartmouth, On Trees and much more
Click on the post for the latest from Prof. Althouse. She went to Dartmouth to a conference on blogging and ends up mixing poety, photography.....and a little reflection. I read this right after watching Rocky V and it really fit in.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Public Works Meeting Monday: Westside Stormwater Drainage On Agenda
Click on the post for the full agenda of the Public Works meeting on Monday. Westside residents with stormwater concerns should attend this meeting to hear the update.
Washington Post: Sen. Russ Feingold Bill held up by "anonymous hold"
Click on the post for the story about how the forces of secrecy got a temporary delay.
School Beat: Evansville School Board Reorg Meeting Monday, 5:30PM
Click on the post for the full agenda in the agenda blog.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Wisconsin Sea Grant: Mon. April 23, 2007: "Global Warming is Unequivocal" a talk by Kevin Trenberth, Grainger Hall, UW, 7PM
Just wanted to let you know that we at Wisconsin Sea Grant are hosting
a talk by Kevin Trenberth on Monday night, April 23, at 7PM in Grainger
Hall on the UW Madison campus. Kevin is a senior scientist at the
National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado. He is a
member of the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)and is one of
many authors on the recent report released by the United Nations. Kevin
has been interviewed on many TV and radio broadcasts recently about the
IPCC report.
His talk is titled "Global Warming Is Unequivocal" (a title that
reflects the exact wording of the report) and he will present it to the
interested public. Information and directions to the talk are found at:
http://www.seagrant.wisc.edu/climatechange/
People can contact me at hurley@aqua.wisc.edu
with any questions. Thanks.
- Jim Hurley
DeleteReplyForwardSpamMove...
a talk by Kevin Trenberth on Monday night, April 23, at 7PM in Grainger
Hall on the UW Madison campus. Kevin is a senior scientist at the
National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado. He is a
member of the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)and is one of
many authors on the recent report released by the United Nations. Kevin
has been interviewed on many TV and radio broadcasts recently about the
IPCC report.
His talk is titled "Global Warming Is Unequivocal" (a title that
reflects the exact wording of the report) and he will present it to the
interested public. Information and directions to the talk are found at:
http://www.seagrant.wisc.edu/climatechange/
People can contact me at hurley@aqua.wisc.edu
- Jim Hurley
DeleteReplyForwardSpamMove...
Breaking News: Mason Braunschweig elected Evansville Common Council President
Mason Braunschweig was elected President of the Evansville Common Council tonight at the annual reorganizational meeting. In addition to his duties on Planning, and Finance Committees, he will be the Chair of the Public Works Committee.
Bill Hammann, longtime member of the Evansville Planning Commission and mainstay of the effort to complete the Downtown restoration and many other projects on the Common Council stepped down after two terms in office. His wife, Melissa, and the kids were there to see the passing of the baton.
Barb Jacobson, who has served on the Police Commission, was sworn in to replace Bill Hammann.
I hope to have some audio for the historians on the blog tomorrow.
Bill Hammann, longtime member of the Evansville Planning Commission and mainstay of the effort to complete the Downtown restoration and many other projects on the Common Council stepped down after two terms in office. His wife, Melissa, and the kids were there to see the passing of the baton.
Barb Jacobson, who has served on the Police Commission, was sworn in to replace Bill Hammann.
I hope to have some audio for the historians on the blog tomorrow.
Gazette Corner: Test Wind Tower Up
Click on the post for the story in the Janesville Gazette by Gina Duwe.
Good Morning Beijing
Yesterday I was chatting over coffee with a local resident and was explaining that on the site meter of The Evansville Observer you can see exactly how many people are viewing the Evansville Observer and where they are located. Just then, my guest said, "There is someone from Beijing on right now! Why would they be visiting the Evansville Observer?"
The answer is simple. Recently our own Evansville WXMAN, or Richard Frey and his wife, Denise and grandson Jeron, visited China. They had a wonderful visit during which Richard worked with the Chinese on a weather computer program he specializes in. It appears that his Chinese guests were checking in to see if they had recovered from their jet lag yet, and also to maybe find out a little bit about Evansville Wisconsin.
So----Welcome Beijing!.
We are The Evansville Observer. We bring you the new....and the news.
"Last Man Out"---a 911 Hero's Story---coming to Madison Sat, April 21, 2007 7-9PM
LAST MAN OUT:
A 9/11 Hero’s Story
WILLIAM RODRIGUEZ - A True American Hero
SPEAKING Saturday, April 21st
U.W.-Madison, 3650 Humanities, 7-9 pm
On September 11, 2001, janitor William Rodriguez risked his life to
save dozens of people still trapped in World Trade Center buildings
WTC and the North Tower. He was the last person out of the North
Tower alive. William has been honored by the White House five times.
William was the keymaster for the World Trade Center. Come hear his
first hand experience and the explosive testimony that he gave behind
closed doors at the 9/11 Commission.
William Rodriguez is a native of Puerto Rico and a citizen of the
United States. He has recently toured the United Kingdom, Malaysia
and South America telling his story to tens of thousands of people.
Come hear him speak Saturday, April 21st (time and UW-Madison
location TBA).
William Rodriguez will be introduced by Kevin Barrett, author of
Truth Jihad: My Epic Struggle Against the 9/11 Big Lie and editor of
9/11 and American Empire v2: Christians, Jews and Muslims Speak Out.
Kevin has appeared on Hannity and Colmes, Bill O'Reilly, Anderson
Cooper, CNN and countless other news outlets sharing his story of
what he has learned about that fateful day in 2001. William decided
to interrupt his worldwide speaking tours and come to Madison in
order to defend Kevin against cheap shots by local Republicans.
This event will be sponsored by MUJCA (the Muslim-Jewish-Christian
Alliance for 9/11 Truth), MSA, Union Puertorriquena/Latino Unidos,
Multicultural Students Association, Student Scholars for 9/11 Truth,
Lone Lantern Madison, Veterans for 9/11 Truth, Midwest Citizens
Truth, 9/11 Share the Truth, Peregrine Forum, and other groups.
Do not miss this event!
Ø When: Saturday, April 21st, 2007
Ø Time: 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Ø Where: 3650 Humanities, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Ø Free and open to the entire campus community!
A 9/11 Hero’s Story
WILLIAM RODRIGUEZ - A True American Hero
SPEAKING Saturday, April 21st
U.W.-Madison, 3650 Humanities, 7-9 pm
On September 11, 2001, janitor William Rodriguez risked his life to
save dozens of people still trapped in World Trade Center buildings
WTC and the North Tower. He was the last person out of the North
Tower alive. William has been honored by the White House five times.
William was the keymaster for the World Trade Center. Come hear his
first hand experience and the explosive testimony that he gave behind
closed doors at the 9/11 Commission.
William Rodriguez is a native of Puerto Rico and a citizen of the
United States. He has recently toured the United Kingdom, Malaysia
and South America telling his story to tens of thousands of people.
Come hear him speak Saturday, April 21st (time and UW-Madison
location TBA).
William Rodriguez will be introduced by Kevin Barrett, author of
Truth Jihad: My Epic Struggle Against the 9/11 Big Lie and editor of
9/11 and American Empire v2: Christians, Jews and Muslims Speak Out.
Kevin has appeared on Hannity and Colmes, Bill O'Reilly, Anderson
Cooper, CNN and countless other news outlets sharing his story of
what he has learned about that fateful day in 2001. William decided
to interrupt his worldwide speaking tours and come to Madison in
order to defend Kevin against cheap shots by local Republicans.
This event will be sponsored by MUJCA (the Muslim-Jewish-Christian
Alliance for 9/11 Truth), MSA, Union Puertorriquena/Latino Unidos,
Multicultural Students Association, Student Scholars for 9/11 Truth,
Lone Lantern Madison, Veterans for 9/11 Truth, Midwest Citizens
Truth, 9/11 Share the Truth, Peregrine Forum, and other groups.
Do not miss this event!
Ø When: Saturday, April 21st, 2007
Ø Time: 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Ø Where: 3650 Humanities, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Ø Free and open to the entire campus community!
Veggie Vehicle Parade of Cars Coming----Be There April 27th for Evansville Energy Fair
(Ed.note: Double click pictures to enlarge)
PRESS RELEASE: Veggie Vehicles to Parade through Town
CONTACT: Robin Lopez-Grignon, Coordinator,
Evansville Community Partnership, 608-882-0598
ecpi@eishome.com
DATE: April 13, 2007
ATTACHED: 2.) Mike Clark shows off his veggie car at Evansville’s Earth Day Energy Fair
Veggie Vehicles to Parade through Town
“Looks Great, Smells Better….”
That’s what Norah Cashin says about her 1983 Mercedes Benz 240D named Ethyl. Ethyl runs on used vegetable oil and will be part of a parade of twenty biofuel vehicles that will pass through Evansville on their way to the fifth annual Earth Day Energy Fair on April 27th.
“The kids always ask for the car that made it smell like French fries”, notes Butch Beedle, energy fair committee chair. This year’s fair at the fieldhouse, 320 Fair Street, has attracted progressive energy enthusiasts from all over the Midwest including Mike Clark of Prairie Fire Biofuels cooperative who organized the BioFuel Vehicle Parade. Mike says, “This is a fun family and community oriented event, and every participant makes a big difference.”
Biofuel on Board…
“I love my biodiesel and the 45 mpg it gets”, declares Renee Exum, local Evansville resident and proud owner of a blue 2003 VW Jetta TDI, “I drive it all around Evansville with a big PrairieFire ‘Biodiesel Powered” bumper sticker on the back!” Renee and 19 other biofuel vehicle owners will begin their parade in Madison at 3 pm. They plan to regroup at a local business parking lot on Hwy 14 by 3:45 pm. With the help of the local police department they will drive together and arrive at the fieldhouse by 4:00 pm to set up. The participants will show off their ride to the public at this free event from 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm.
Big Body Benz…
The biodiesel and veggie oil Parade invitation read, “Join us on the way to Evansville to show what you can do to change the world from behind the wheel of a motor vehicle.” Sara Wrzesinski quickly responded, “Our car has a personality of its own!” Sarah will show her 1984 Mercedes Benz 300SD with 365,600 young miles. “We originally purchased the car almost as a joke…we had heard a little about being able to run a diesel on vegetable oil which was interesting.” Now Sara Wrzesinski uses the Benz as her daily driver. “Thanks to the mechanical help at PrairieFire….as long as we use the block heater on cold days, it starts right up every time.”
Pumped up….
With at least 20 vehicle entries and some coming from as far away as Milwaukee,
I wondered why these drivers were so enthusiastic to educate others about biofuel vehicles. Mary Eberle, who will participate with her 2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI sedan which runs on a blend of 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent petroleum diesel, quickly answered , “34 mpg city, 45 mpg highway!” She didn’t have to say any more with the prices at the pump going up every day lately.
Evansville’s Progressive Energy Brand….
The mission of the Evansville Initiative is to serve as a catalyst for interest in an array of energy projects that make Evansville known as the place for progressive energy applications. This year’s fair has been an effective component to that goal. The fair’s theme ‘Living Energy” has attracted over 70 registered exhibitors on a variety of topics from energy efficient appliances to wind energy to sustainable agriculture. The 5th annual Evansville Earth Day Energy Fair is on April 27th from 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm at the fieldhouse, 320 Fair Street in Evansville. The fair is free to the public and sponsored by Evansville Water and Light, the Evansville Community Partnership, the Evansville Initiative, and the Evansville Community School District. For more information, contact Robin Lopez-Grignon, ECP Coordinator, at 608/882-0598 or ecpi@eishome.com.
###
PRESS RELEASE: Veggie Vehicles to Parade through Town
CONTACT: Robin Lopez-Grignon, Coordinator,
Evansville Community Partnership, 608-882-0598
ecpi@eishome.com
DATE: April 13, 2007
ATTACHED: 2.) Mike Clark shows off his veggie car at Evansville’s Earth Day Energy Fair
Veggie Vehicles to Parade through Town
“Looks Great, Smells Better….”
That’s what Norah Cashin says about her 1983 Mercedes Benz 240D named Ethyl. Ethyl runs on used vegetable oil and will be part of a parade of twenty biofuel vehicles that will pass through Evansville on their way to the fifth annual Earth Day Energy Fair on April 27th.
“The kids always ask for the car that made it smell like French fries”, notes Butch Beedle, energy fair committee chair. This year’s fair at the fieldhouse, 320 Fair Street, has attracted progressive energy enthusiasts from all over the Midwest including Mike Clark of Prairie Fire Biofuels cooperative who organized the BioFuel Vehicle Parade. Mike says, “This is a fun family and community oriented event, and every participant makes a big difference.”
Biofuel on Board…
“I love my biodiesel and the 45 mpg it gets”, declares Renee Exum, local Evansville resident and proud owner of a blue 2003 VW Jetta TDI, “I drive it all around Evansville with a big PrairieFire ‘Biodiesel Powered” bumper sticker on the back!” Renee and 19 other biofuel vehicle owners will begin their parade in Madison at 3 pm. They plan to regroup at a local business parking lot on Hwy 14 by 3:45 pm. With the help of the local police department they will drive together and arrive at the fieldhouse by 4:00 pm to set up. The participants will show off their ride to the public at this free event from 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm.
Big Body Benz…
The biodiesel and veggie oil Parade invitation read, “Join us on the way to Evansville to show what you can do to change the world from behind the wheel of a motor vehicle.” Sara Wrzesinski quickly responded, “Our car has a personality of its own!” Sarah will show her 1984 Mercedes Benz 300SD with 365,600 young miles. “We originally purchased the car almost as a joke…we had heard a little about being able to run a diesel on vegetable oil which was interesting.” Now Sara Wrzesinski uses the Benz as her daily driver. “Thanks to the mechanical help at PrairieFire….as long as we use the block heater on cold days, it starts right up every time.”
Pumped up….
With at least 20 vehicle entries and some coming from as far away as Milwaukee,
I wondered why these drivers were so enthusiastic to educate others about biofuel vehicles. Mary Eberle, who will participate with her 2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI sedan which runs on a blend of 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent petroleum diesel, quickly answered , “34 mpg city, 45 mpg highway!” She didn’t have to say any more with the prices at the pump going up every day lately.
Evansville’s Progressive Energy Brand….
The mission of the Evansville Initiative is to serve as a catalyst for interest in an array of energy projects that make Evansville known as the place for progressive energy applications. This year’s fair has been an effective component to that goal. The fair’s theme ‘Living Energy” has attracted over 70 registered exhibitors on a variety of topics from energy efficient appliances to wind energy to sustainable agriculture. The 5th annual Evansville Earth Day Energy Fair is on April 27th from 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm at the fieldhouse, 320 Fair Street in Evansville. The fair is free to the public and sponsored by Evansville Water and Light, the Evansville Community Partnership, the Evansville Initiative, and the Evansville Community School District. For more information, contact Robin Lopez-Grignon, ECP Coordinator, at 608/882-0598 or ecpi@eishome.com.
###
Evansville loves Webcam: Suggest adjustments
As I have strolled uptown, and chatted with folks, they have all seemed to like the new webcam as a way of keeping in touch with the doings downtown while they are away at work, or even on vacation. The traffic numbers have suggested folks are checking in several times a day. In fact on election day, it appears more folks may have checked the webcam than voted.
Some have wondered if it would be possible for the camera to be repositioned so it could swivel every two minutes, first to West Main and then to East Main. Or----the ultimate fantasy---positioned on the UBT clock, and covering the best of West, East, North and South. This little change for only a modification of the swivel base. In one fell swoop computer viewers could cover the best of West Main, the best of Pete's Inn, the Best of City Hall and the Best of the Night Owl. Wow. What an entertainment bargain.
I have tried to dampen the hopes of citizens. I have told them of the possible cost of a swivel base. Maybe $50. I love the idea. I think of it as the "Premium" package. Citizens would probably have to tell city hall of their desire for "Premium" for this to happen. Stay tuned.
Some have wondered if it would be possible for the camera to be repositioned so it could swivel every two minutes, first to West Main and then to East Main. Or----the ultimate fantasy---positioned on the UBT clock, and covering the best of West, East, North and South. This little change for only a modification of the swivel base. In one fell swoop computer viewers could cover the best of West Main, the best of Pete's Inn, the Best of City Hall and the Best of the Night Owl. Wow. What an entertainment bargain.
I have tried to dampen the hopes of citizens. I have told them of the possible cost of a swivel base. Maybe $50. I love the idea. I think of it as the "Premium" package. Citizens would probably have to tell city hall of their desire for "Premium" for this to happen. Stay tuned.
Star Tribune: Late Files Swamp Turbo Tax
Were you one of the millions that were trying to submit a tax return via TurboTax last night? I had a chance to "observe" one of my daughters submitting a return, only to get a message that due to the swamped traffic, the best thing to do was to try back at 4am or so today---and miss the filing deadline. Huh? I hope they have this fixed by next year.
Click on the post for the full story in the Star Tribune.
Click on the post for the full story in the Star Tribune.
Classic "Souch"----Emails are not protection......
Click on the post as Joe Soucheray weighs in on the shooting response via email.
Rock Net Roots: Questions the Gazette hymn of Praise for Mercy
Click on the post for the analysis of the "Rock Net Roots Blog" on the recent hymn of praise for Mercy in the Gazette.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Common Council: Ordinance proposed to alter Planning Commission Composition: City Engineer to have advisory NOT voting role
At the reorganizational meeting on Tuesday night, the Evansville Common council introduced the first reading of an ordinance that would revise the Planning Commission to have the city engineer as an advisor, but not a voting member. This has been a sore point of contention that has been supported by the public for some time. It removes any appearance of or reality of conflict of interest in cases before the planning commission. It also removes the expense of having to hire a separate engineer to review items that appear to have conflict of interest. So---it will be cheaper, more effective, and be a change that the public supports. Amen.
Game of Chicken Revisited: (orig 12-19-2006) Finance: The Game of Chicken is Coming in 2007
(Ed. note: As inflation spikes according to the news today, and Sallie Mae and Freddie Mac scramble to refinance troubled sub prime mortgages--i thought it well to revisit the post of 12-19-2006. Will the Fed raise interest rates in the face of increasing energy costs? The question is as near as the gas pump. Stay tuned for the answer.)
If you click on the post, you will see the articles today on the horrifying prospect of a large number of forclosures in 2007 on sub-par loans made during the past five years. The other side of the equation is the news today that wholesale inflation has risen.
The Federal Reserve has held the fed rate the last two meetings, and many market analysts have been optimistic that next year the Fed would be forced to reduce the rate to allow the housing market to recover and in other terms allow folks to switch to fixed mortgages if possible.
The problem of course is the inflation numbers. The huge increase in the wholesale prices by some pundits is just a fluke, but ....stay tuned. 2007 will be a real game of chicken, and the stakes are large. Will the Fed resume raising rates to fight the boogie man of inflation and risk disaster or will they ease the rate lower.
You make the call.
If you click on the post, you will see the articles today on the horrifying prospect of a large number of forclosures in 2007 on sub-par loans made during the past five years. The other side of the equation is the news today that wholesale inflation has risen.
The Federal Reserve has held the fed rate the last two meetings, and many market analysts have been optimistic that next year the Fed would be forced to reduce the rate to allow the housing market to recover and in other terms allow folks to switch to fixed mortgages if possible.
The problem of course is the inflation numbers. The huge increase in the wholesale prices by some pundits is just a fluke, but ....stay tuned. 2007 will be a real game of chicken, and the stakes are large. Will the Fed resume raising rates to fight the boogie man of inflation and risk disaster or will they ease the rate lower.
You make the call.
Agenda: Evansville Common Council: The Reorganizational Meeting------TONIGHT-------- April 17, 2007
Click on the post for all the proposed appointments for the Meeting on Tuesday, April 17, 2007.
Stay tuned to all the excitement of the appointments on the Evansville Observer. Who will be the new City Council President? Who will replace Bill Hammann on Planning? Will there be any surprises tonight like there were last year at this reorganizational meeting?
Remember: To be informed of each and every post on the Evansville Agenda blog, simply scroll down on the Agenda blog and click "subscribe."
Stay tuned to all the excitement of the appointments on the Evansville Observer. Who will be the new City Council President? Who will replace Bill Hammann on Planning? Will there be any surprises tonight like there were last year at this reorganizational meeting?
Remember: To be informed of each and every post on the Evansville Agenda blog, simply scroll down on the Agenda blog and click "subscribe."
Gazette; School Beat: Clinton to Open new Charter School
Click on the latest charter school offering from the Clinton School District.
Gazette Corner: On Evansville Skate Board Park
Click on the post for the latest from Gina Duwe of the Janesville Gazette.
School Beat: Safety: College shooting prompts nationwide school safety review
School Shooting Prompts Nationwide school safety review
As a consequence of the recent tragic shooting of college students by a gunman, many schools are reviewing their safety plan----and accelerating the items on the five year plan.
On Thursday, The Evansville School Board buildings and grounds committee will be reviewing the capital expenditure budget for the upcoming year. Click on the post for the full agenda from the Evansville Observer Agenda Blog. One item---the location of the middle school office, is related to safety, in that the proper location of the school office can enable office staff to control the entrance---at least visually if not electronically. At the present time, the location on the second floor is very poor. Expect the committee to pencil in some costs associated with this change.
Entrance control was the topic of discussion at an earlier building and grounds meeting, where after the discussion of additional wireless cameras, Mr. Hatfield noted that cameras were for writing history----only entrance control and some physical staff present can help----police response time might be 20 minutes to engage and the event would be done.
The community can weigh in on the priorities of things. Currently soccer lights and parking lots are on the top, with security expenses down on the list.
You make the call.
As a consequence of the recent tragic shooting of college students by a gunman, many schools are reviewing their safety plan----and accelerating the items on the five year plan.
On Thursday, The Evansville School Board buildings and grounds committee will be reviewing the capital expenditure budget for the upcoming year. Click on the post for the full agenda from the Evansville Observer Agenda Blog. One item---the location of the middle school office, is related to safety, in that the proper location of the school office can enable office staff to control the entrance---at least visually if not electronically. At the present time, the location on the second floor is very poor. Expect the committee to pencil in some costs associated with this change.
Entrance control was the topic of discussion at an earlier building and grounds meeting, where after the discussion of additional wireless cameras, Mr. Hatfield noted that cameras were for writing history----only entrance control and some physical staff present can help----police response time might be 20 minutes to engage and the event would be done.
The community can weigh in on the priorities of things. Currently soccer lights and parking lots are on the top, with security expenses down on the list.
You make the call.
How to order "Evansville Soybean Capital of Wisconsin T-Shirt-"
Click on the post for the order form and the instructions. Don't forget to add the postage fee.
Guest OpEd: "Souch" speaks on "The Board Game"
Joe Soucheray is a regular feature of The St. Paul Pioneer Press in St. Paul. Click on the post for his commentary on the recent proposal to raise the salaries of the Ramsey County Board.
Joe starts the discussion of a larger question----how roles of service have become simply a "board game."
Joe starts the discussion of a larger question----how roles of service have become simply a "board game."
AARP and United Health Group Renew Pact;
Click on the post for this article in the Mineapolis Star and Tribune. It is stunning how much money is involved in this segment as the boomers retire. Stay tuned. United Health Group stock holders must be pleased.
The Wisconsin Film Festival: A Happening Event: Put on Calendar for next year
Click on the post for the recap in the Capital Times of the Wisconsin Film Festival. I missed it this year, but have it on the calendar for next year. It combines watching films with fine eating and walking in downtown Madison. What could be better?
Click on the post for a recap of this year's event and the progress this venue has made.
Click on the post for a recap of this year's event and the progress this venue has made.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Doyle Declared May 19 "Covenant Day"---
Click on the post to hear about the "covenant" Gov. Doyle mentioned in his Stae of the State speech, and which in the article quotes him as promising "some" financial aid plus admission. Usually when vows or covenants are make, more details are revealed. Stay tuned.
Minutes: Friends of the Evansville Community/Senior Board
FRIENDS OF THE EVANSVILLECOMMUNITY/SENIOR BOARD
March 9, 2007
Board members present
Gordon Andrew, Karen Bass, Dave Fellows
Phil Hamilton, Phil Kress, Janis Ringhand, Elaine Strassburg
1. MINUTES
The minutes of the March 9 Board meeting and the March 11, 2007, Strategic Planning meeting were approved.
2. DONOR RELATIONS
Janis Ringhand sent the attached letter to Kent Knutson of Edward Jones Co., seeking clarification and confirmation of a number of issues raised by the Board. A response is expected soon.
Kent Knutson informed Janis Ringhand that an interest bearing checking account, currently yielding 4.5%, can be established at Edward Jones to serve as the operating account for the Friends. Boris Frank was asked to open the account.
3. PROGRAMS AND PARTNERSHIPS COMMITTEE
The Committee met twice and developed recommendations and a “wish list” for interim and long range programs and services, and suggested facilities to be provided to the architect. (Copies are attached)
It was agreed that the information generated by the Committee would be shared with the Primetimers on April 24th for their review and recommendations.
Boris Frank contacted the Executive Director of the County Council on Aging to inform them of progress.
The Committee will meet immediately following the Primetimers meeting on April 24th to determine next steps, including the possibility of reconfiguring the current school space, utilizing school facilities and forging a programming relationship with the Rock County YMCA.
4. SITE SELECTION AND BUILDING COMMITTEE
The Committee met April 10th.
All Evansville real estate brokers were informed that a suitable site for the Center is being sought. The former Roller Rink site was suggested. It was agreed that this site would not be ideal and should not be pursued at this time.
The Committee recommended:
Entering into negotiations with Greg Helgesen regarding possible purchase of the former Co-Op property or lease of a building constructed on the site. (Approved)
Engaging a consulting architect. (Approved Boris Frank developing a list of candidates and initiating the selection process)
The Committee will interview applicants and bring recommendations to the Board.
Retaining an attorney to represent the Friends. (Approved Phil Kress engaging Attorney Walter Shannon at an hourly rate of $180)
Janis Ringhand will contact Baker Manufacturing to determine their plans for the property located between the plant and the Helgesen site.
5. PRIMETIMERS
Members of the Program and Partnerships Committee and the Board will meet with the Primetimers on April 24th to inform them of progress and seek their advice regarding interim and long range program interests and needs.
Kent Knutson of Edward Jones, Tom Den Boer of the YMCA and Heidi Carvin, Superintendent of Schools, will be invited to attend the meeting. (Boris Frank will extend invitations)
6. CORPORATE MATTERS
The IRS 501(c)(3) application draft has been completed and is currently being reviewed by Janis Ringhand and David Ross.
Post Office Box #160 has been opened. Keys are held by Janis Ringhand and Elaine Strassburg.
A draft 2007 budget was approved. (Attached)
The Executive Committee was asked to seek a quarter-time administrator for the Friends. A draft job description is attached. Board member comments and suggested candidates should be forwarded to Janis Ringhand
7. FUNDRAISING AND PUBLIC INFORMATION
Boris Frank will bring draft fundraising and public information plans for consideration by the Finance Committee and the Board..
Janis Ringhand will prepare an update article for the Review.
A Town Hall informational meeting will be scheduled when an architectural firm has been engaged.
8. NEXT MEETING
The next meeting of the Board will be held at 8:30 AM on Thursday, May 3rd at City Hall..
March 9, 2007
Board members present
Gordon Andrew, Karen Bass, Dave Fellows
Phil Hamilton, Phil Kress, Janis Ringhand, Elaine Strassburg
1. MINUTES
The minutes of the March 9 Board meeting and the March 11, 2007, Strategic Planning meeting were approved.
2. DONOR RELATIONS
Janis Ringhand sent the attached letter to Kent Knutson of Edward Jones Co., seeking clarification and confirmation of a number of issues raised by the Board. A response is expected soon.
Kent Knutson informed Janis Ringhand that an interest bearing checking account, currently yielding 4.5%, can be established at Edward Jones to serve as the operating account for the Friends. Boris Frank was asked to open the account.
3. PROGRAMS AND PARTNERSHIPS COMMITTEE
The Committee met twice and developed recommendations and a “wish list” for interim and long range programs and services, and suggested facilities to be provided to the architect. (Copies are attached)
It was agreed that the information generated by the Committee would be shared with the Primetimers on April 24th for their review and recommendations.
Boris Frank contacted the Executive Director of the County Council on Aging to inform them of progress.
The Committee will meet immediately following the Primetimers meeting on April 24th to determine next steps, including the possibility of reconfiguring the current school space, utilizing school facilities and forging a programming relationship with the Rock County YMCA.
4. SITE SELECTION AND BUILDING COMMITTEE
The Committee met April 10th.
All Evansville real estate brokers were informed that a suitable site for the Center is being sought. The former Roller Rink site was suggested. It was agreed that this site would not be ideal and should not be pursued at this time.
The Committee recommended:
Entering into negotiations with Greg Helgesen regarding possible purchase of the former Co-Op property or lease of a building constructed on the site. (Approved)
Engaging a consulting architect. (Approved Boris Frank developing a list of candidates and initiating the selection process)
The Committee will interview applicants and bring recommendations to the Board.
Retaining an attorney to represent the Friends. (Approved Phil Kress engaging Attorney Walter Shannon at an hourly rate of $180)
Janis Ringhand will contact Baker Manufacturing to determine their plans for the property located between the plant and the Helgesen site.
5. PRIMETIMERS
Members of the Program and Partnerships Committee and the Board will meet with the Primetimers on April 24th to inform them of progress and seek their advice regarding interim and long range program interests and needs.
Kent Knutson of Edward Jones, Tom Den Boer of the YMCA and Heidi Carvin, Superintendent of Schools, will be invited to attend the meeting. (Boris Frank will extend invitations)
6. CORPORATE MATTERS
The IRS 501(c)(3) application draft has been completed and is currently being reviewed by Janis Ringhand and David Ross.
Post Office Box #160 has been opened. Keys are held by Janis Ringhand and Elaine Strassburg.
A draft 2007 budget was approved. (Attached)
The Executive Committee was asked to seek a quarter-time administrator for the Friends. A draft job description is attached. Board member comments and suggested candidates should be forwarded to Janis Ringhand
7. FUNDRAISING AND PUBLIC INFORMATION
Boris Frank will bring draft fundraising and public information plans for consideration by the Finance Committee and the Board..
Janis Ringhand will prepare an update article for the Review.
A Town Hall informational meeting will be scheduled when an architectural firm has been engaged.
8. NEXT MEETING
The next meeting of the Board will be held at 8:30 AM on Thursday, May 3rd at City Hall..
Althouse Corner: Dartmouth Conference This week: Role of Blogs in Community, in 2008 Election
Click on the post for the info on the Dartmouth conference this week where Prof. Ann Althouse will be presenting on the role of blogs in creating community and in their role in the upcoming election. This is a story we will follow. Stay tuned.
North Praire Production Moves Office to Evansville
(Ed. note: Click on the post to access the web site of North Prairie Productions)
Just a note to let you know we have moved the offices of North Prairie Productions from Waterloo to Evansville . Our new mailing address is:
North Prairie Productions, LLC
PO Box 48
Evansville, WI 53536
The physical address for the new office is 155 Union Street , Suite D, in Evansville . Union Street is actually Hwy 14, and our office is in the same building as Alberici’s Deli and H&R Block.
All other contact info (fax & phone numbers, etc.) remain the same.
As needed, please make note of the mailing address in your records. Thanks!
Jeff Pieterick
Vice President
North Prairie Productions, LLC
108 E. Madison Street; PO Box 24
Waterloo, WI 53594
Toll free: 877.299.2435
Cell: 920.988.4058
FAX: 877.299.2435
www.npnrg.com
"Harvesting Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future"
Just a note to let you know we have moved the offices of North Prairie Productions from Waterloo to Evansville . Our new mailing address is:
North Prairie Productions, LLC
PO Box 48
Evansville, WI 53536
The physical address for the new office is 155 Union Street , Suite D, in Evansville . Union Street is actually Hwy 14, and our office is in the same building as Alberici’s Deli and H&R Block.
All other contact info (fax & phone numbers, etc.) remain the same.
As needed, please make note of the mailing address in your records. Thanks!
Jeff Pieterick
Vice President
North Prairie Productions, LLC
108 E. Madison Street; PO Box 24
Waterloo, WI 53594
Toll free: 877.299.2435
Cell: 920.988.4058
FAX: 877.299.2435
www.npnrg.com
"Harvesting Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future"
Travelogue: China: Wxman writes:
Decorations on buildings at Summer Palace
(Doubleclick photos to enlarge)
Walkway at the Summer Palace
From: WXMAN
Date: Apr 15, 2007 4:50 PM
Subject: Trip to China
Well, we're back from China and over the jet lag (I think). It's much worse coming back west than going east. What a trip to remember! The Chinese really know how to treat visitors. We felt like we had moved up in the social hierarchy a few steps! They took care of absolutely everything, from meeting us at the airport (at 11:30 pm), to showing us around (even on Sunday), to treating us to very elaborate meals, to putting us up in a suite in a country villa, to paying for my arline ticket in cold Chinese cash (that'll take me about 2 weeks to redeem in the US). It was truly a great time.
I "worked" Monday through Wednesday lunch, but really the only things I did were give a talk on Monday evening (after playing ping-pong, how cool was that?) and holding question and answer sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday morning. Since I've been working on automated cloud detection for about 10 years now, it wasn't too difficult. Most of those 3 days were spent at a semi-rural location about an hour north of Beijing where most of the NSMC staff were temporarily located and working on the software for their next meteorological satellite. They work very hard when they are on a special project like this, in two shifts per day, but I don't know how many hours per shift. But they also play hard, mostly at badminton, tennis, and ping-pong.
The remainder of the time we were in a nice downtown Beijing hotel. We visited the Great Wall, Summer Palace, Forbidden City, Tienamen Square, some gorge I don't remember the name of, and did some shopping.
Just like you've heard, the amount of construction taking place is awesome. It's non-stop, around-the-clock, literally almost on every block, from downtown to the countryside. Like I read somewhere, that's what an annual economic growth rate of 8% looks like.
The food we had was good, but after the 3 days at the villa that had no western food at all, the first thing we did was hit the Pizza Hut! J was quite pleased with himself for eating octopus. I think I we probably did to, but how to know? We ate a lof ot things we couldn't identify! Thankfully, the hotel in Beijing had a breakfast buffet that served very good Western-style food.
I've attached some pictures we took. Here's a brief description of each:
1 - outdoor walkway at the Summer Palace
2 - decorations on buildings at the Summer Palace
3 - pig-tailed staff receiving instructions and "psyching up" before restaurant opening
4 - old fashioned transportation
5 - country dwellings just yards from our rural hotel window; white on the hills was a flowering tree or shrub
6 - A view from the Great Wall
7 - A view of the Great Wall
8 - at the Great Wall
9 - View of Chairman Mao from Tienamen Square
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Republican Party of Wis: Transfer Tax Hike for Real Estate Transfer by Dems will Hurt market.
Click on the post for the article by the Republican Party of Wis that asserts that the proposal to double the transfer tax for real estate transfers in Wisconsin will do harm to the real estate market...which is already hurting.
Wash Post: World Bank Staff Chant for Wolfowitz to resign
Click on the post for the full story of Mr Wolfowitz and his "mistake." He did not refer to his design of the Iraq war as a mistake. Will he remain for another week on the World Bank? Stay tuned.
Monroe Times: School Beat: New Glarus School Referendums Fail by Very Slim margin; Cuts pending
Click on the post for the story in the Monroe Times of the recent failed school referendums in New Glarus and the recent recount of votes.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Twin Cities Audio Round Up
Observer and brother review two big stories up in Mpls, St. Paul----the Mpls Star sale and the "taking" of two St. Paul Pioneer Press execs to the new paper---and the second story----how the community in St. Paul is rising to respond to crime..Click on the post to read the story on the "God Squad.." in the Monitor...
Friday, April 13, 2007
Minutes: Highlights: Evansville Fire District, April
(Ed. note: The following is a portion of the April Evansville Fire Dept. Minutes: )
NEW BUILDING / FIRE STATION
Strand Associates, Incorporated should have feasibility study done for District by May meeting. Schneider read agreement from Strand. Motion made by Wessels, 2nd by Roberts, to accept proposal. Motion carried. Copy of agreement may be viewed at fire station.
LAND PURCHASE
Property located on south side of Evansville may no longer be available for purchase. Owner is expressing concern with capital gain taxes. District Board will review other sites available to keep options open.
EXISTING SALE OF CURRENT FIRE BUILDING OPTIONS
Sale of current station tabled until issue of land purchase has been settled.
EMERGENCY WATER USE FOR EVANSVILLE MANOR
Emergency water source agreement has been received from Evansville Manor. This is update from previous agreement made with City of Evansville. Motion made by Wessels, 2nd by Hamilton, to accept agreement. Motion carried. Copy of agreement may be viewed at fire station.
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Motion made by McCoy, 2nd by Roberts, to approve payment of April bills in the amount of $7,743.05, which includes check previously approved for payment to Jim Frechette in the amount of $2,760.00. Motion carried.
FIRE CALLS
Motion made by Hamilton, 2nd by Wessels, to accept fire calls 28, 30 and 31 as non-billable. Motion carried.
USER FEE INVOICES
User fee invoices were reviewed.
OTHER NON-ACTIONABLE BUSINESS PRESENTED TO BOARD
Board discussed updating business appreciation plaques. This item will be added to May 01 agenda.
Chief promoted Knox Box installations at local businesses. Knox Box allows Fire Department access to building in emergency situations.
Brooklyn Fire District open house of new station will be held on April 21.
Mitzi will contact Jim Bielke regarding updating City website of user fee charged. Current site states fee of $340.00.
Motion made by McCoy, 2nd by Wessels, to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried.
NEW BUILDING / FIRE STATION
Strand Associates, Incorporated should have feasibility study done for District by May meeting. Schneider read agreement from Strand. Motion made by Wessels, 2nd by Roberts, to accept proposal. Motion carried. Copy of agreement may be viewed at fire station.
LAND PURCHASE
Property located on south side of Evansville may no longer be available for purchase. Owner is expressing concern with capital gain taxes. District Board will review other sites available to keep options open.
EXISTING SALE OF CURRENT FIRE BUILDING OPTIONS
Sale of current station tabled until issue of land purchase has been settled.
EMERGENCY WATER USE FOR EVANSVILLE MANOR
Emergency water source agreement has been received from Evansville Manor. This is update from previous agreement made with City of Evansville. Motion made by Wessels, 2nd by Hamilton, to accept agreement. Motion carried. Copy of agreement may be viewed at fire station.
PAYMENT OF BILLS
Motion made by McCoy, 2nd by Roberts, to approve payment of April bills in the amount of $7,743.05, which includes check previously approved for payment to Jim Frechette in the amount of $2,760.00. Motion carried.
FIRE CALLS
Motion made by Hamilton, 2nd by Wessels, to accept fire calls 28, 30 and 31 as non-billable. Motion carried.
USER FEE INVOICES
User fee invoices were reviewed.
OTHER NON-ACTIONABLE BUSINESS PRESENTED TO BOARD
Board discussed updating business appreciation plaques. This item will be added to May 01 agenda.
Chief promoted Knox Box installations at local businesses. Knox Box allows Fire Department access to building in emergency situations.
Brooklyn Fire District open house of new station will be held on April 21.
Mitzi will contact Jim Bielke regarding updating City website of user fee charged. Current site states fee of $340.00.
Motion made by McCoy, 2nd by Wessels, to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried.
Nostalgia: Tales From Normal: "The Phonebooth Meeting"
Due to popular request I have republished a classic from yesteryear. Click on the post.
Mpls: Star Tribune: Foreclosures double Jan-March 2007 in Henn. County at auction
Foreclosures have doubled in Hennepin County in Minnesota for the first three months of 2007, and that is only the cases that go to auction---many other folks have scrambled to refinance or sell to avoid it. Click on the post for the full story.
Dateline Mpls: Minneapolis Schools close Six schools--more to follow
In a move that solved only one third of its excess classroom space, the Minneapolis School Board acted to close six schools. More are to follow. Click on the post to read the story in the Mpls Star and Tribune.
"YouTube" enters 2008 Presidential Race
Video and interactive Video is moving to center stage in the 2008 Presidential election. Click on the post for the full story in the Wisconsin State Journal.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
School Beat; Buildings and Grounds meets next Thursday, April 19, 2007; Moving Middle School Office, Wind Turbine, on agenda
Click on the post for the Agenda for the Buildings and Grounds meeting next Thursday---
School Beat: Finance Committee Meets Monday 5:30PM
Click on the post for the agenda in the Observer Agenda Blog.
What's in your agenda? Subscribe to the Agenda Blog---scroll down to bottom of blog and click subscribe. Get all the agenda that are published on the blog automatically. This is not an official notice. Just a service of The Observer.
What's in your agenda? Subscribe to the Agenda Blog---scroll down to bottom of blog and click subscribe. Get all the agenda that are published on the blog automatically. This is not an official notice. Just a service of The Observer.
The Open Meeting Law and Development-----the Milton Case examined
Click on the post for the article in the Janesville Gazette which explores the recent Milton, Wi open meeting law violation and what it might mean for "quasi-governmental" bodies negotiating with cities for development projects.
FEMA: Federal Register: Comment Period: Flood Plain Elevation Determination: Evansville, Wi
Click on the post for the document in the Federal Register regarding the flood plain elevation level for Evansville, Wisconsin and its relation to the flood insurance program.
It appears that the full document is available for inspection at City Hall.
It appears that the full document is available for inspection at City Hall.
RFP: Allen Creek Redevelopment Plan
(Ed. note: The following document was in PDF format but unreadable as such. I have published it in digital form on The Observer for public view. )
- 1 -
Request for Proposals
Allen Creek Redevelopment Master Plan
Evansville, Wisconsin
The Evansville Redevelopment Authority in conjunction with the Plan Commission is seeking the services of an
urban design consultant or a consultant team to prepare a redevelopment master plan for approximately 38
acres on the city’s north side along USH 14. The area contains a mix of developed, vacant, and underutilized
properties, wetlands, and a regulated 100-year floodplain. Many of the parcels are oddly shaped. All of the
parcels are in private ownership.
The primary focus of the project is a 22-acre area, which is labeled Allen Creek Project Area on the attached
location map. Depending on cost, the project may or may not include the area labeled North Union Project
Area.
The redevelopment master plan is intended to:
1. Help the city create a new zoning district and supporting development standards and design guidelines
for the Allen Creek Project Area
2. Stimulate redevelopment projects
3. Serve as a benchmark for when a property owner submits a development project for the city’s
consideration
Previous Studies
The City of Evansville adopted a Smart Growth Comprehensive Plan in 2004, which identifies the Allen Creek
Project Area as an extension of the city’s traditional downtown and the North Union Project Area as a gateway
of the city.
Scope of Work
It is anticipated that the following tasks are needed to complete the project:
1. Conduct one-on-one interviews with property owners in the project area
2. Conduct an opportunity analysis for each of the parcels
3. Identify real estate market conditions that may affect the development and redevelopment of land
within the project areas
4. Create redevelopment options for those parcels where redevelopment is feasible and desired
5. Meet with the Redevelopment Authority and/or the Plan Commission to review findings and initial
concepts
6. Revise the master plan based on input
7. Present the master plan at a public forum
8. Revise master plan based on input
- 2 -
The master plan is to consist of a written report in both hard-copy and digital formats that, at a minimum,
contains:
1. key findings,
2. a full-color drawing of the project area that shows the location of a potential bike path along Allen
Creek, access points onto Union Street (WisDOT coordination required), parking lot locations, building
locations, and landscape features,
3. three or four building sketches that show typical forms and massing along with desirable and required
design features, and
4. recommendations for implementation.
Candidates are encouraged to suggest additional tasks and master plan components, which in the judgment of
the candidate are necessary to the success of the project. The tasks to be completed and the scope and
content of the master plan will be negotiated with the selected consultant.
Proposal Requirements
Proposals shall contain the following information in the order specified:
1. letter of transmittal,
2. firm overview,
3. statement of qualification,
4. proposed scope of work detailed as individual tasks,
5. proposed table of contents for the master plan,
6. information about key personnel that will be assigned to work on the project including title,
experience, and periods of service with the firm
7. description of similar projects that key personnel assigned to work on the project have completed in
the last five years and reference contact information
8. availability of key personnel assigned to work on the project
9. any additional information, which the candidate considers pertinent
The proposed cost shall be submitted in a separate sealed envelope (one copy). For each proposed task, state
the total cost and the number of hours by each person along with their hourly rate.
Proposed costs should be
assigned to the Allen Creek Project Area and the North Union Street Project Area.
General Schedule
April 4, 2007 (4:30 pm) Deadline for questions from consultant candidates
April 6, 2007 (4:30 pm) Proposals due
April 9-13, 2007 Staff review
April 17, 2007 Redevelopment Authority reviews proposals and selects one firm or several for
interviews
Deliverables shall be submitted to the city within ten weeks of executing the contract.
Budget
The city has not set a budget for the project, but anticipates the cost to be between $5,000 and $10,000.
Evaluation Criteria
The Redevelopment Authority shall review all proposals and make its recommendation to the Common
Council. The Redevelopment Authority’s recommendation and the Council’s decision shall be based on the
following criteria:
- 3 -
1. general qualifications of the firm,
2. specific qualifications of the key personnel assigned to the project,
3. the extent to which the proposal meets the requirements of the proposal,
4. proposed scope of service,
5. proposed content of the master plan,
6. references, and
7. budget.
The city reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, to waive technical defects in the proposals, and to
select the proposal deemed most advantageous to the city.
Point of Contact
Candidates shall not contact the Mayor or any member of the Redevelopment Authority, Plan Commission, or
Common Council regarding this RFP.
All questions shall be directed to the following individuals no later than
4:30 pm on April 4, 2007:
Dan Wietecha, City Administrator
dan.wietecha@ci.evansville.wi.gov
608-882-2263
Tim Schwecke, AICP
Civi Tek Consulting
920-728-2814
tim.schwecke@civitekconsulting.com
Submission of Proposal
Ten copies of the proposal and one copy of the proposed cost in a separate envelope shall be received no later
than 4:30 pm on April 6. Proposals received after this date and proposals submitted via fax will not be
considered. Candidates interested in responding to this RFP should send the above-outlined documentation to:
Dan Wietecha, City Administrator; City of Evansville; 31 S. Madison Street; PO Box 76; Evansville, WI 53536.
- 1 -
Request for Proposals
Allen Creek Redevelopment Master Plan
Evansville, Wisconsin
The Evansville Redevelopment Authority in conjunction with the Plan Commission is seeking the services of an
urban design consultant or a consultant team to prepare a redevelopment master plan for approximately 38
acres on the city’s north side along USH 14. The area contains a mix of developed, vacant, and underutilized
properties, wetlands, and a regulated 100-year floodplain. Many of the parcels are oddly shaped. All of the
parcels are in private ownership.
The primary focus of the project is a 22-acre area, which is labeled Allen Creek Project Area on the attached
location map. Depending on cost, the project may or may not include the area labeled North Union Project
Area.
The redevelopment master plan is intended to:
1. Help the city create a new zoning district and supporting development standards and design guidelines
for the Allen Creek Project Area
2. Stimulate redevelopment projects
3. Serve as a benchmark for when a property owner submits a development project for the city’s
consideration
Previous Studies
The City of Evansville adopted a Smart Growth Comprehensive Plan in 2004, which identifies the Allen Creek
Project Area as an extension of the city’s traditional downtown and the North Union Project Area as a gateway
of the city.
Scope of Work
It is anticipated that the following tasks are needed to complete the project:
1. Conduct one-on-one interviews with property owners in the project area
2. Conduct an opportunity analysis for each of the parcels
3. Identify real estate market conditions that may affect the development and redevelopment of land
within the project areas
4. Create redevelopment options for those parcels where redevelopment is feasible and desired
5. Meet with the Redevelopment Authority and/or the Plan Commission to review findings and initial
concepts
6. Revise the master plan based on input
7. Present the master plan at a public forum
8. Revise master plan based on input
- 2 -
The master plan is to consist of a written report in both hard-copy and digital formats that, at a minimum,
contains:
1. key findings,
2. a full-color drawing of the project area that shows the location of a potential bike path along Allen
Creek, access points onto Union Street (WisDOT coordination required), parking lot locations, building
locations, and landscape features,
3. three or four building sketches that show typical forms and massing along with desirable and required
design features, and
4. recommendations for implementation.
Candidates are encouraged to suggest additional tasks and master plan components, which in the judgment of
the candidate are necessary to the success of the project. The tasks to be completed and the scope and
content of the master plan will be negotiated with the selected consultant.
Proposal Requirements
Proposals shall contain the following information in the order specified:
1. letter of transmittal,
2. firm overview,
3. statement of qualification,
4. proposed scope of work detailed as individual tasks,
5. proposed table of contents for the master plan,
6. information about key personnel that will be assigned to work on the project including title,
experience, and periods of service with the firm
7. description of similar projects that key personnel assigned to work on the project have completed in
the last five years and reference contact information
8. availability of key personnel assigned to work on the project
9. any additional information, which the candidate considers pertinent
The proposed cost shall be submitted in a separate sealed envelope (one copy). For each proposed task, state
the total cost and the number of hours by each person along with their hourly rate.
Proposed costs should be
assigned to the Allen Creek Project Area and the North Union Street Project Area.
General Schedule
April 4, 2007 (4:30 pm) Deadline for questions from consultant candidates
April 6, 2007 (4:30 pm) Proposals due
April 9-13, 2007 Staff review
April 17, 2007 Redevelopment Authority reviews proposals and selects one firm or several for
interviews
Deliverables shall be submitted to the city within ten weeks of executing the contract.
Budget
The city has not set a budget for the project, but anticipates the cost to be between $5,000 and $10,000.
Evaluation Criteria
The Redevelopment Authority shall review all proposals and make its recommendation to the Common
Council. The Redevelopment Authority’s recommendation and the Council’s decision shall be based on the
following criteria:
- 3 -
1. general qualifications of the firm,
2. specific qualifications of the key personnel assigned to the project,
3. the extent to which the proposal meets the requirements of the proposal,
4. proposed scope of service,
5. proposed content of the master plan,
6. references, and
7. budget.
The city reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, to waive technical defects in the proposals, and to
select the proposal deemed most advantageous to the city.
Point of Contact
Candidates shall not contact the Mayor or any member of the Redevelopment Authority, Plan Commission, or
Common Council regarding this RFP.
All questions shall be directed to the following individuals no later than
4:30 pm on April 4, 2007:
Dan Wietecha, City Administrator
dan.wietecha@ci.evansville.wi.gov
608-882-2263
Tim Schwecke, AICP
Civi Tek Consulting
920-728-2814
tim.schwecke@civitekconsulting.com
Submission of Proposal
Ten copies of the proposal and one copy of the proposed cost in a separate envelope shall be received no later
than 4:30 pm on April 6. Proposals received after this date and proposals submitted via fax will not be
considered. Candidates interested in responding to this RFP should send the above-outlined documentation to:
Dan Wietecha, City Administrator; City of Evansville; 31 S. Madison Street; PO Box 76; Evansville, WI 53536.
Cap Times Corner: Aging Population a "Concern" for Monona. Considering "Code enforcement" or flexibility--stay tuned
Monona, faced with a plentiful supply of 1950's ramblers priced at about $200,000 with a below average number of school children, is unsure of how to proceed---should they adopt some flexibilty in set backs to allow a new homeowner to make additions, or should they "recycle the housing stock" by hasseling current ageing residents with code violations.
Click on the post for the full story in the Capital Times.
Click on the post for the full story in the Capital Times.
Yahoo News; Foreclosure Holiday Coming? Aid package for Homeowners; Lenders, Mortgage Brokers to blame?
Rep Shumer of New York discusses the latest numbers of foreclosures and the prediction for the future year, which are startling. There is talk of an aid package for homeowners facing foreclosure.
Click on the post for the full article.
Click on the post for the full article.
Janesville: Downtown Historic District Formation considered: Meeting April 17
Click on the post for the details and the meeting coming up to consider a downtown historic district for Janesville.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
UW Stout Players: DA says plea agreement close in drug case
Click on the post for the latest from twincities.com.