The Evansville Observer Archive: The unofficial history of Evansville, Wisconsin from 2005-2013: Thousands of Video and Audio and Articles; Free: To Search scroll to the Search this Blog line and enter name of person, topic, or issue. Then scroll up to see all articles. Or use Google Search by topic. Enjoy.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Bernanke---Deceit, Naivete, or Blowing Smoke, or All of the Above?: Unger: Captimes
Click on the post for the latest.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Video: 2007:Catch the Culture: Terry Whipple
Video: : Intro. Catch the Culture: Speech of Terry Whipple to Evansville Economic Development meeting. 2007 Evansville Economic dreams, Then and Now..
Download File
Download File
Audio; Evansville Comprehensive Plan 4/4/2011
Presentation by John Stockham at Evansville Planning Commission on Monday, April 4, 2011----This meeting was adjourned after this initial presentation because of inadequate space. The presentaion will be made again on Monday, May 2nd at EHS and time for comments from the public.....
MP3 File
MP3 File
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Evansville Comprehensive Plan cites Population Assumptions---Real or Imaginary?
"Based on current WDOA projections, the City of Evansville and the surrounding area within the
City’s USA is projected to grow to approximately 8,199 persons over the next 20-years. This
amount of growth translates to approximately 1,022 new dwelling units, which will require
approximately 511 acres of land planned for future residential expansion. Additional land needs
to be set aside for non-residential growth and to account for the fact that not all potentially
developable land in the City’s USA will be offered in the market at the time that there is demand
for new land supply. In general, planners set aside 2 to 3 times the projected residential land
demand to account for uncertainty in the market place and non-residential land demand. Table
1 depicts the population, dwelling unit, and residential land demand projections for the 20-year
planning period extending from 2010 to 2030.
City’s USA is projected to grow to approximately 8,199 persons over the next 20-years. This
amount of growth translates to approximately 1,022 new dwelling units, which will require
approximately 511 acres of land planned for future residential expansion. Additional land needs
to be set aside for non-residential growth and to account for the fact that not all potentially
developable land in the City’s USA will be offered in the market at the time that there is demand
for new land supply. In general, planners set aside 2 to 3 times the projected residential land
demand to account for uncertainty in the market place and non-residential land demand. Table
1 depicts the population, dwelling unit, and residential land demand projections for the 20-year
planning period extending from 2010 to 2030.
New Evansville Residents will pay for utility improvements, NOT current taxpayers:
(ed.note: The following is from the Evansville Comprehensive Plan to be discussed Monday night.)
"Due to the anticipated costs for major water utility system improvements, the City and Evansville
Utilities should consider either impact fees or forming assessment areas as a means of
financing major system improvements in newly developing areas. The cost of extending of
water mains and service lines to new subdivisions should continue to be the responsibility of
individual developers, as new lands are platted."
"Due to the anticipated costs for major water utility system improvements, the City and Evansville
Utilities should consider either impact fees or forming assessment areas as a means of
financing major system improvements in newly developing areas. The cost of extending of
water mains and service lines to new subdivisions should continue to be the responsibility of
individual developers, as new lands are platted."
"Results" Group to hold meeting Saturday at Eager Free Library on Budget Impacts on Poverty etc.
Click on the post for the details.
What is "Responsible Growth?" Citizens to speak on Monday, May 2 in Evanville at High School PAC
Citizens of Evansville and Union will have an opportunity to speak at the public hearing on Monday night, May 2nd at the Evansville High School PAC regarding the proposed Evansville Comprehensive Plan.
The Evansville Observer plans full audio and video coverage of the event. Plan on attending.
The Evansville Observer plans full audio and video coverage of the event. Plan on attending.
Video: Kendall Schneider "Sustainable" Growth
Video: Evansville/Union Joint Meeting on April 7, 2011. Kendall Schneider, Town of Union Chair speaks of "Sustainable Growth"
Download File
Download File
Video: Mayor Decker Committed to "Responsible" Growth
Video: Evansville/Union joint Board meeting on April 7, 2011; Mayor Sandy Decker speaks on where she is coming from on farmland preservation and responsible growth.
Download File
Download File
Audio; Evansville Comprehensive Plan 4/4/2011
Presentation by John Stockham at Evansville Planning Commission on Monday, April 4, 2011----This meeting was adjourned after this initial presentation because of inadequate space. The presentaion will be made again and time alloted for comments from the public.....the City of Evansville will advertise the new time and place of meeting.
MP3 File
MP3 File
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Town of Union Planning---a committment to full citizen involvement
As far back as 2005, the records of the Town of Union Planning committee charged each participant:
"To ensure that residents of the Town of Union have multiple opportunities to contribute to the development of its Comprehensive Plan"
The history of the Planning style of Union reflects the "bottoms up" style that whether it was in the Wind Turbine hearings that were heard literally worldwide, or the original plan, the ability to engage in sharply divided but respectful dialogue and then synthesize the community interest while fending off special interest.
In broad terms, this style contrasts with that of Evansville which has had their document prepared by a contracted planner and presented for approval.
On Monday, May 2nd, at the Evansville High School PAC, Evansville residents will have an opportunity to hear the Evansville Plan as revised and comment on it. This is a critical moment for Evansville citizen participation---the question is:
Will they show up?
"To ensure that residents of the Town of Union have multiple opportunities to contribute to the development of its Comprehensive Plan"
The history of the Planning style of Union reflects the "bottoms up" style that whether it was in the Wind Turbine hearings that were heard literally worldwide, or the original plan, the ability to engage in sharply divided but respectful dialogue and then synthesize the community interest while fending off special interest.
In broad terms, this style contrasts with that of Evansville which has had their document prepared by a contracted planner and presented for approval.
On Monday, May 2nd, at the Evansville High School PAC, Evansville residents will have an opportunity to hear the Evansville Plan as revised and comment on it. This is a critical moment for Evansville citizen participation---the question is:
Will they show up?
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Monday, April 25, 2011
Public Works meets on Monday the 26th?: Agenda
NOTICE
The regular meeting of the Public Works Committee for the City of Evansville will be held on the date, time, and place stated below. Notice is further given that members of the City Council might be in attendance.
Public Works Committee
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 26th, 2011 at 6:00 p.m.
DPW Shop, 535 South Madison Street, Evansville, WI
AGENDA
1. Call meeting to order.
2. Roll call
3. Motion to approve the agenda as presented.
4. Motion to approve the minutes from the March 21, 2011 regular meeting.
5. Citizen Appearances-
6. Public Information Meeting Concerning 6th Street Detention Pond and Outfall.
7. Construction Updates-
8. Site plan reviews-
a. Westfield Meadows LOMR
9. Communications from the City Engineer-
a. WWTF close-out information and discussion and motion for pay-out.
b. East Main Street Bridge – construction start date?
c. Railroad Crossing on Main Street
10. Communications from the Public Works Director-
a. Discussion and possible motion concerning yard waste, wood chips and firewood.
11. New Business-
12. Old Business-
13. Parks and Recreation Report-
14. Motion to adjourn meeting.
Mason Braunschweig,
Chair Public Works Committee
Please turn off all cell phones during the meeting. Thank you for your anticipated cooperation.
The regular meeting of the Public Works Committee for the City of Evansville will be held on the date, time, and place stated below. Notice is further given that members of the City Council might be in attendance.
Public Works Committee
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 26th, 2011 at 6:00 p.m.
DPW Shop, 535 South Madison Street, Evansville, WI
AGENDA
1. Call meeting to order.
2. Roll call
3. Motion to approve the agenda as presented.
4. Motion to approve the minutes from the March 21, 2011 regular meeting.
5. Citizen Appearances-
6. Public Information Meeting Concerning 6th Street Detention Pond and Outfall.
7. Construction Updates-
8. Site plan reviews-
a. Westfield Meadows LOMR
9. Communications from the City Engineer-
a. WWTF close-out information and discussion and motion for pay-out.
b. East Main Street Bridge – construction start date?
c. Railroad Crossing on Main Street
10. Communications from the Public Works Director-
a. Discussion and possible motion concerning yard waste, wood chips and firewood.
11. New Business-
12. Old Business-
13. Parks and Recreation Report-
14. Motion to adjourn meeting.
Mason Braunschweig,
Chair Public Works Committee
Please turn off all cell phones during the meeting. Thank you for your anticipated cooperation.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Saturday, April 23, 2011
RockNetRoots: Programmer discloses programming ability to rig elections
Click on the post for the latest.
"Drive till you can afford the home" formula is over
Kendall Schneider, Town of Union Chair, mentioned in his presentation at a recent meeting that there was a time when young families headed out from the inner city till they could afford the homes of surburbia----I immediately remembered the suburbs of St. Paul and Mpls, where my Dad did exactly that, and all of his children followed this formula. It was the key to providing a dignified family life for millions of Americans.
These were the days following WWII, with the economic boom, the plentiful supply of money, and remember what the prices were for the basic rambler in 1952....Ok it was $12,500 for the ones with the dishwasher and amenities. These same homes in the suburbs in St. Paul sell for $225,000 now. What difference a little time makes.
Then the point Kendall made. ::"Those Days are Over". Any plan of Evansville and Union must consider this fact.
These were the days following WWII, with the economic boom, the plentiful supply of money, and remember what the prices were for the basic rambler in 1952....Ok it was $12,500 for the ones with the dishwasher and amenities. These same homes in the suburbs in St. Paul sell for $225,000 now. What difference a little time makes.
Then the point Kendall made. ::"Those Days are Over". Any plan of Evansville and Union must consider this fact.
"Developers will just build where they want to:" and other funny stories
I had the pleasure of inquiring of an Evansville Common Council member about the comprehensive plan, and he mentioned to me that one of the wisdoms of the plan is that there is just no telling builders where to build, so the best thing is to expand everywhere and let the market run. The plan to be discussed that expands in four directions reflects this philosophy---Here is the text.
"Based on current WDOA projections, the City of Evansville and the surrounding area within the
City’s USA is projected to grow to approximately 8,199 persons over the next 20-years. This
amount of growth translates to approximately 1,022 new dwelling units, which will require
approximately 511 acres of land planned for future residential expansion. Additional land needs
to be set aside for non-residential growth and to account for the fact that not all potentially
developable land in the City’s USA will be offered in the market at the time that there is demand
for new land supply. In general, planners set aside 2 to 3 times the projected residential land
demand to account for uncertainty in the market place and non-residential land demand. Table
1 depicts the population, dwelling unit, and residential land demand projections for the 20-year
planning period extending from 2010 to 2030.
"
"Based on current WDOA projections, the City of Evansville and the surrounding area within the
City’s USA is projected to grow to approximately 8,199 persons over the next 20-years. This
amount of growth translates to approximately 1,022 new dwelling units, which will require
approximately 511 acres of land planned for future residential expansion. Additional land needs
to be set aside for non-residential growth and to account for the fact that not all potentially
developable land in the City’s USA will be offered in the market at the time that there is demand
for new land supply. In general, planners set aside 2 to 3 times the projected residential land
demand to account for uncertainty in the market place and non-residential land demand. Table
1 depicts the population, dwelling unit, and residential land demand projections for the 20-year
planning period extending from 2010 to 2030.
"
Evansville Expansion North will require "major" infrastructure expansion
(Ed.note; This text is from the Evansville Comprehensive plan to be reviewed in public hearing. Another word for "Major" is "expensive" for the taxpayer.)
"Northward expansion is generally defined by a prominent ridge north of the City and the
Evansville Golf Course, which is located east of U.S. Highway 14. The highlands northeast of
the city limits are a suitable area for residential expansion. Portions of this area have already
been platted with unsewered subdivisions and/or developed with larger “estate homes.”
However, as new development occurs, new subdivisions in this area should be brought into the
City. Newly developing areas adjacent to Cemetery Road, N. Territorial Road, and County
Highway M in the Northeast Infill Area should be platted as City subdivisions and served by
public utilities.
Map 1 on page 4 depicts the primary areas for City growth and expansion.
The areas most suitable for near-term residential expansion are the West and Northwest
Expansion Areas. The West Expansion Area provides approximately 200 acres that are
potentially suitable for future residential development. The Northwest Expansion Area provides
approximately 320 acres of potentially suitable for future residential development. Portions of
West and Northwest Expansion Areas area can be developed without major infrastructure
improvements; however, full development of these areas will require a new sanitary sewer lift
station and/or directional bore and a new westside water tower and booster pump.
The Northern Gateway Area includes approximately 150 acres of potentially developable land
including frontage along U.S. Highway 14 that is suitable for future commercial development.
The Northeast Infill Area includes approximately 400 acres of potentially developable land.
Development of these areas will require major infrastructure system improvements, including
new sanitary sewer lift stations and/or directional bores and a new eastside water tower.
There are approximately 170 acres in the Southwest infill Area City that could potentially be
developed for residential use, if a sanitary sewer lift station is constructed to serve the residents
in the area who have failing septic systems."
"Northward expansion is generally defined by a prominent ridge north of the City and the
Evansville Golf Course, which is located east of U.S. Highway 14. The highlands northeast of
the city limits are a suitable area for residential expansion. Portions of this area have already
been platted with unsewered subdivisions and/or developed with larger “estate homes.”
However, as new development occurs, new subdivisions in this area should be brought into the
City. Newly developing areas adjacent to Cemetery Road, N. Territorial Road, and County
Highway M in the Northeast Infill Area should be platted as City subdivisions and served by
public utilities.
Map 1 on page 4 depicts the primary areas for City growth and expansion.
The areas most suitable for near-term residential expansion are the West and Northwest
Expansion Areas. The West Expansion Area provides approximately 200 acres that are
potentially suitable for future residential development. The Northwest Expansion Area provides
approximately 320 acres of potentially suitable for future residential development. Portions of
West and Northwest Expansion Areas area can be developed without major infrastructure
improvements; however, full development of these areas will require a new sanitary sewer lift
station and/or directional bore and a new westside water tower and booster pump.
The Northern Gateway Area includes approximately 150 acres of potentially developable land
including frontage along U.S. Highway 14 that is suitable for future commercial development.
The Northeast Infill Area includes approximately 400 acres of potentially developable land.
Development of these areas will require major infrastructure system improvements, including
new sanitary sewer lift stations and/or directional bores and a new eastside water tower.
There are approximately 170 acres in the Southwest infill Area City that could potentially be
developed for residential use, if a sanitary sewer lift station is constructed to serve the residents
in the area who have failing septic systems."
Nostalgia: 2007: Art Phillips Speaks: re: School Building
7-16-2007--Building and Grounds, Evansville School District, Art Phillips, Board member cautions that review of sites is fine, but with respect to building anything, the recent slowdown in building activity must be taken into account---the future is unknown. It can go either way.
Download File
Download File
Nostalgia: 2007: School Beat: Enrollment Decline: Decline began in 2007
2007: Supr. Carvin reveals enrollment decline: Final numbers will be on third Monday of Sept count as well as open enrollment final numbers. Enrollment decline gives district some "breathing room."
Download File
Download File
Friday, April 22, 2011
Facebook Trivia: Did you notice?
Have you noticed that you are only seeing updates in your newsfeed from the same people lately? Have you also noticed that when you post things like status messages, photos and links, the same circle of people are commenting and everyone else seems to be ignoring you?
Don't worry, everyone still loves you and nobody has intentionally blocked you. The problem is that a large chunk of your friend/fan list can't see anything you post and here's why:
The "New Facebook" has a newsfeed setting that by default is automatically set to show ONLY posts from people who you've recently interacted with or interacted the most with (which would be limited to the couple of weeks just before people started switching to the new profile). So in other words, for both business and personal pages, unless your friends/fans commented on one of your posts within those few weeks or vice versa - you are now invisible to them and they are invisible to you!!
HERE'S THE FIX: On the homepage click the "Most Recent" title on the right of the Newsfeed, then click on the drop down arrow beside it and select "Edit Options", click on "Show Posts From" and change the setting to "All Of Your Friends and Pages" (you can also access the "Edit Options" link at the very bottom of the facebook homepage on the right) Note: Business pages do not have a newsfeed however page owners should adjust the settings on their personal accounts.
The good news is: now you can now view all of your friends and fans again. The bad news is: YOU ARE STILL INVISIBLE to a large portion of your list. You must get the word out to ALL of your friends and fans....
Don't worry, everyone still loves you and nobody has intentionally blocked you. The problem is that a large chunk of your friend/fan list can't see anything you post and here's why:
The "New Facebook" has a newsfeed setting that by default is automatically set to show ONLY posts from people who you've recently interacted with or interacted the most with (which would be limited to the couple of weeks just before people started switching to the new profile). So in other words, for both business and personal pages, unless your friends/fans commented on one of your posts within those few weeks or vice versa - you are now invisible to them and they are invisible to you!!
HERE'S THE FIX: On the homepage click the "Most Recent" title on the right of the Newsfeed, then click on the drop down arrow beside it and select "Edit Options", click on "Show Posts From" and change the setting to "All Of Your Friends and Pages" (you can also access the "Edit Options" link at the very bottom of the facebook homepage on the right) Note: Business pages do not have a newsfeed however page owners should adjust the settings on their personal accounts.
The good news is: now you can now view all of your friends and fans again. The bad news is: YOU ARE STILL INVISIBLE to a large portion of your list. You must get the word out to ALL of your friends and fans....
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Stockman: Deficit Reduction is just flimflam swindle: Yahoo Finance: Video
Click on the post for the latest.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Video: Prof. Black: The Elite Frauds go Free;;; Will lead to next crash
Click on the post for the video from Yahoo Finance.
"Breathing Dirty Air and Drinking Unsafe Water".....: Tales From Normal, Mn: FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
"Half of Normal, Mn. homes for Sale---City Worried..: Tales From Normal, Mn.: FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Evansville Reorganization meeting April 19, 2011: List of appointments
Common Council Meeting
Tuesday, April 19, 2011, 6:30 p.m.
Organizational Meeting
City Hall, 31 South Madison Street, Evansville WI
AGENDA
1. Call to order.
2. Roll call.
3. Administer Oath of Office to District #1 Alderperson Barbara Jacobson, District #2 Alderpersons Jim Brooks and Cheryl Fuchs, District #3 Alderperson Floyd Hayes, and District #4 Alderperson Dennis Wessels.
4. Roll call of new Council.
5. Motion to approve Resolution 2011-05, Commending Diane Roberts for her Service to the City of Evansville.
6. Nomination and election of Council President.
7. Motion to appoint The Evansville Review as the City of Evansville’s official newspaper for a term of one year.
8. Motion to waive the seven-day notice on aldermanic and citizen appointments.
9. Committee Aldermanic Appointments.
A. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Braunschweig as Chair and Ald. Brooks and Ald. Culbertson as committee members to the Finance and Labor Relations Committee.
B. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Ald. Braunschweig and Ald. Brooks to the Plan Commission.
C. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Brooks as Chair and Ald. Wyse and Ald. Hayes as committee members to the Water and Light Committee.
D. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Jacobson and Ald. Wyse to the Evansville Fire District Board, and Ald. Wessels and Ald. Hayes as alternates.
E. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Braunschweig as Chair and Ald. Culbertson and Ald. Fuchs as committee members to the Public Works Committee.
F. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Brooks and Ald. Fuchs as committee members to the Economic Development Committee.
G. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Ald. Culbertson as Chair to the Park and Recreation Board.
H. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Wessels as Chair and Ald. Jacobson and Ald. Hayes as committee members to the Public Safety Committee.
I. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Jacobson and Ald. Wyse as committee members to the Redevelopment Authority.
J. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Ald. Wessels to the Historic Preservation Commission.
K. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Ald. Fuchs as special Council liaison to the Library Board.
10. Citizen Committee Appointments.
A. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of John Gishnock, 210 Cemetery Road, for a three-year term to the Plan Commission.
B. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Chris Eager, 120 Grove Street, for a five-year term to the Redevelopment Authority.
C. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Wally Shannon, 131 South Third Street, for a five-year term to the Police Commission.
D. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Lyman Fuson, 334 West Main Street, and ____________, _____________, for three-year terms to the Park and Recreation Board.
E. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Susan Kruser, 244 Eager Court, for a two-year term and Gwen Clendenning, 331 Almeron Street, and Wally Shannon, 131 South Third Street, for three-year terms to the Library Board.
F. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Justin Brooks, 81 Gunther Drive, and Sally Reisem,, 470 Lincoln Court, for unexpired terms ending in April 2013 and Rachel Kleven, 414 Meadow Lane, and Lisa James, 7821 North South Fifth Street, for three-year terms to the Youth Center Advisory Board.
G. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Sharel Surles, 125 Deanna Drive, for a five-year term and Gilbert Wiedenhoeft, 256 West Main Street, as alternate for an unexpired term ending in April 2014 to the Board of Review.
H. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Michael Pierick, 126 Grove Street, for a three-year term to the Economic Development Committee.
I. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Betsy Ahner, 66 North Water Street, John Decker, 143 West Main Street, and Rich Modaff, 103 South Third Street, for two-year terms to the Historic Preservation Commission.
J. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Paul Miller, 8 Sherman Court, to a five-year term to the Housing Authority.
K. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Kurt Schmidt, 231 West Liberty Street, to a three-year term to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
L. Motion to approve the Mayoral designations of Jeff Hanson, 535 Greenview Drive, as first alternate and Janice Turner, 233 West Church Street, as second alternate to the Board of Review for 2011.
11. Committee Reference Information.
12. Motion to approve Agreement with William Rundle and Kristine Chilsen.
13. Rep. Janis Ringhand holding listening session Wed, April 20, 12:00-1:30 at Library.
14. Motion to adjourn.
Sandra J. Decker, Mayor
Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible.
Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011, 6:30 p.m.
Organizational Meeting
City Hall, 31 South Madison Street, Evansville WI
AGENDA
1. Call to order.
2. Roll call.
3. Administer Oath of Office to District #1 Alderperson Barbara Jacobson, District #2 Alderpersons Jim Brooks and Cheryl Fuchs, District #3 Alderperson Floyd Hayes, and District #4 Alderperson Dennis Wessels.
4. Roll call of new Council.
5. Motion to approve Resolution 2011-05, Commending Diane Roberts for her Service to the City of Evansville.
6. Nomination and election of Council President.
7. Motion to appoint The Evansville Review as the City of Evansville’s official newspaper for a term of one year.
8. Motion to waive the seven-day notice on aldermanic and citizen appointments.
9. Committee Aldermanic Appointments.
A. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Braunschweig as Chair and Ald. Brooks and Ald. Culbertson as committee members to the Finance and Labor Relations Committee.
B. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Ald. Braunschweig and Ald. Brooks to the Plan Commission.
C. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Brooks as Chair and Ald. Wyse and Ald. Hayes as committee members to the Water and Light Committee.
D. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Jacobson and Ald. Wyse to the Evansville Fire District Board, and Ald. Wessels and Ald. Hayes as alternates.
E. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Braunschweig as Chair and Ald. Culbertson and Ald. Fuchs as committee members to the Public Works Committee.
F. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Brooks and Ald. Fuchs as committee members to the Economic Development Committee.
G. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Ald. Culbertson as Chair to the Park and Recreation Board.
H. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Wessels as Chair and Ald. Jacobson and Ald. Hayes as committee members to the Public Safety Committee.
I. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Ald. Jacobson and Ald. Wyse as committee members to the Redevelopment Authority.
J. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Ald. Wessels to the Historic Preservation Commission.
K. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Ald. Fuchs as special Council liaison to the Library Board.
10. Citizen Committee Appointments.
A. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of John Gishnock, 210 Cemetery Road, for a three-year term to the Plan Commission.
B. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Chris Eager, 120 Grove Street, for a five-year term to the Redevelopment Authority.
C. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Wally Shannon, 131 South Third Street, for a five-year term to the Police Commission.
D. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Lyman Fuson, 334 West Main Street, and ____________, _____________, for three-year terms to the Park and Recreation Board.
E. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Susan Kruser, 244 Eager Court, for a two-year term and Gwen Clendenning, 331 Almeron Street, and Wally Shannon, 131 South Third Street, for three-year terms to the Library Board.
F. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Justin Brooks, 81 Gunther Drive, and Sally Reisem,, 470 Lincoln Court, for unexpired terms ending in April 2013 and Rachel Kleven, 414 Meadow Lane, and Lisa James, 7821 North South Fifth Street, for three-year terms to the Youth Center Advisory Board.
G. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Sharel Surles, 125 Deanna Drive, for a five-year term and Gilbert Wiedenhoeft, 256 West Main Street, as alternate for an unexpired term ending in April 2014 to the Board of Review.
H. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Michael Pierick, 126 Grove Street, for a three-year term to the Economic Development Committee.
I. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointments of Betsy Ahner, 66 North Water Street, John Decker, 143 West Main Street, and Rich Modaff, 103 South Third Street, for two-year terms to the Historic Preservation Commission.
J. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Paul Miller, 8 Sherman Court, to a five-year term to the Housing Authority.
K. Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment of Kurt Schmidt, 231 West Liberty Street, to a three-year term to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
L. Motion to approve the Mayoral designations of Jeff Hanson, 535 Greenview Drive, as first alternate and Janice Turner, 233 West Church Street, as second alternate to the Board of Review for 2011.
11. Committee Reference Information.
12. Motion to approve Agreement with William Rundle and Kristine Chilsen.
13. Rep. Janis Ringhand holding listening session Wed, April 20, 12:00-1:30 at Library.
14. Motion to adjourn.
Sandra J. Decker, Mayor
Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible.
Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.
Local Homebuilder Wins National Gold Star Boatbuilding Award: Tales From Normal, Mn.: FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
Video: Sara Palin Speaks in Madison at Tea Party Rally: Utube
Click on the post to watch the Utube video.
RockNetRoots Blog reviews the Ryan Record:
The recent comments by President Obama were not trash talking Paul Ryan---he was just telling the truth about Paul Ryan's record. Click on the post for the recap.
Deaf and Dumb Governor Goes to Washington---Claims Benefits: Tales From Normal,Mn: FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Saturday, April 16, 2011
"Max It Pawn" to be Anchor Tenant in St. Paul, Mn: Pioneer Press
Pawn shops are now becoming an engine in enonomic development.....huh? Click on the post for the latest.
Congresswoman Gwen Moore puts it to Gov. Walker
Click on the post for the video of her confronting Gov. Walker in Washington.
Mailbag: OpEd: JW Writes: "We Can't Have Rights?"
We Can’t Afford Rights?
In the past week the Wisconsin has erupted with protests of a bill that, in effort to close an estimated 3.6 billion dollar deficit, would eliminate workers’ collective bargaining rights on any issues aside from salary. The members of the anti-bill movement have done an enviable job of protesting the claims that the matter at hand is simply whether or not state workers have a responsibility to the government to reduce their costs to and help the state avoid future deficits. The mythology of the ‘cost’ of human and civil rights and access to social services is not new to this issue. This particular protest could provide an excellent opportunity to deconstruct that rhetoric now and recognize how it is being used to de-criminalize rape, support the criminalization of poverty, and justify immigration policy that targets and dehumanizes individuals. These protests could serve as a catalyst for the people of the United States to examine how the language of the ‘cost’ of rights limits our national conversation, and prevents us from skillfully examining the deeper structural roots of these issues, such as harmful U.S. Foreign Policy or (with regard to the current economic crisis) an unregulated private sector.
Arguing that our fiscal bottom line does not support human rights is an all too familiar strategy to those working on issues of immigration rights. One of the most popular arguments in favor of restrictive immigration policies uses a similar argument; “Illegal immigration” costs our nation thousands of dollars and takes away jobs from U.S. workers. Like the arguments surrounding the fiscal policy in Wisconsin, this argument is factually unsound. Most immigrants to the U.S. pay taxes and don’t use services. The U.S. greatly benefits from low paying migrant labor. These arguments scapegoat human rights and civil liberties as luxuries we simply can’t afford as a nation. This argument ignores the history of U.S. immigration policy as rooted in racism and exploitation, ignores the U.S. global economic policy that has created a market for low pay migrant labor.
This argument is familiar to supporters of women’s sexual health as it has echoed around the House’s recent vote to de-fund Planned Parenthood. This de-funding will further limit Planned Parenthood from providing services for family planning, sexual health, HIV testing, and fertility consultation. Parenthood provides accessible services—so it disproportionally impacts low income women. Centering the debate on the cost of Planned Parenthood services obscures the fundamental concern, which is that cutting funding for services such as these make it impossible for many women, and especially low income women and teens, to make informed and legal choices about their reproductive futures. It leaves out any discussion of the cost of reducing this access: Planned Parenthood devotes a great deal of its resources on prevention education that may prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease. It also leaves out a broader examination of policy that is leading to higher teen pregnancy; including a lack of proper sex education—the focus again is being placed on reducing support of and access to individual rights.
If we are to push back against these different assaults to our human rights and civil liberties, we have to challenge ourselves to move away from seeing them as separate assaults. These are not simply assaults on the middle class by those in higher class strata. They are not simply assaults on the rights of reproductive rights of women. They are not simply assaults by citizens against those without citizenship. They are assaults on social justice and access that disadvantage each of us along our non-dominant identities, and serve those at the top of the sociopolitical hierarchy. They are assaults on a national valuing of the protection of human and civil rights. They are assaults on a valuing of social responsibility. Let us acknowledge the common thread in these attacks. By acknowledging this we increase our capacity to build anti-racist, class-conscious, and feminist coalitions that cut through the surface differences between these arguments and are unified in our call for governance that places human rights and a concern for justice first.
In the past week the Wisconsin has erupted with protests of a bill that, in effort to close an estimated 3.6 billion dollar deficit, would eliminate workers’ collective bargaining rights on any issues aside from salary. The members of the anti-bill movement have done an enviable job of protesting the claims that the matter at hand is simply whether or not state workers have a responsibility to the government to reduce their costs to and help the state avoid future deficits. The mythology of the ‘cost’ of human and civil rights and access to social services is not new to this issue. This particular protest could provide an excellent opportunity to deconstruct that rhetoric now and recognize how it is being used to de-criminalize rape, support the criminalization of poverty, and justify immigration policy that targets and dehumanizes individuals. These protests could serve as a catalyst for the people of the United States to examine how the language of the ‘cost’ of rights limits our national conversation, and prevents us from skillfully examining the deeper structural roots of these issues, such as harmful U.S. Foreign Policy or (with regard to the current economic crisis) an unregulated private sector.
Arguing that our fiscal bottom line does not support human rights is an all too familiar strategy to those working on issues of immigration rights. One of the most popular arguments in favor of restrictive immigration policies uses a similar argument; “Illegal immigration” costs our nation thousands of dollars and takes away jobs from U.S. workers. Like the arguments surrounding the fiscal policy in Wisconsin, this argument is factually unsound. Most immigrants to the U.S. pay taxes and don’t use services. The U.S. greatly benefits from low paying migrant labor. These arguments scapegoat human rights and civil liberties as luxuries we simply can’t afford as a nation. This argument ignores the history of U.S. immigration policy as rooted in racism and exploitation, ignores the U.S. global economic policy that has created a market for low pay migrant labor.
This argument is familiar to supporters of women’s sexual health as it has echoed around the House’s recent vote to de-fund Planned Parenthood. This de-funding will further limit Planned Parenthood from providing services for family planning, sexual health, HIV testing, and fertility consultation. Parenthood provides accessible services—so it disproportionally impacts low income women. Centering the debate on the cost of Planned Parenthood services obscures the fundamental concern, which is that cutting funding for services such as these make it impossible for many women, and especially low income women and teens, to make informed and legal choices about their reproductive futures. It leaves out any discussion of the cost of reducing this access: Planned Parenthood devotes a great deal of its resources on prevention education that may prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease. It also leaves out a broader examination of policy that is leading to higher teen pregnancy; including a lack of proper sex education—the focus again is being placed on reducing support of and access to individual rights.
If we are to push back against these different assaults to our human rights and civil liberties, we have to challenge ourselves to move away from seeing them as separate assaults. These are not simply assaults on the middle class by those in higher class strata. They are not simply assaults on the rights of reproductive rights of women. They are not simply assaults by citizens against those without citizenship. They are assaults on social justice and access that disadvantage each of us along our non-dominant identities, and serve those at the top of the sociopolitical hierarchy. They are assaults on a national valuing of the protection of human and civil rights. They are assaults on a valuing of social responsibility. Let us acknowledge the common thread in these attacks. By acknowledging this we increase our capacity to build anti-racist, class-conscious, and feminist coalitions that cut through the surface differences between these arguments and are unified in our call for governance that places human rights and a concern for justice first.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Fighting Bob: They Have Plans--Do They Ever
Click on the post for a must read preview of what is ahead.
The Library Calculator---How to calculate exactly your benefit.
Click on the post for the calculator.
Evansville Comprehensive Plan Hearing will reconvene on May 2nd, 6PM, High School
Click on the post for the draft plan.
The Evansville Observer will be providing audio and video coverage of this event. Come and make your voice heard.
The Evansville Observer will be providing audio and video coverage of this event. Come and make your voice heard.
Energy Fair and Art Crawl Today--click on post for details.
Enjoy the day. Click on post for the full agenda.
Wis. Leads Nation in Ghost Towns--so you wanna be a tourist destination? WSJ
Click on the post for an article by Mike Ivey.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
WSJ: The Big Insurance Lie-----
Click on the post for the latest. The new rollback of insurance limits is a huge loss for everybody...
Mailbag; Library Funds for Civil War Event come from special private designated funds, not taxpayer funds
(Ed.note: Librarian Kathy Kemp sent me this answer to my question as to the source of the funding for the Civil War events at the libary.)
To reiterate, the Library has been given many monetary gifts over the years, usually in the form of memorials. Often, but not always, the gifts are made with the stipulation that the Library purchase materials and/or create and implement cultural programs. We are stepping up our efforts to do just that.
For example, the friends and family of Larry Gransee made generous donations to a fund in his memory, with the request that we use that money to put on children's programs that will enhance children's education. We have done so since the fund was created, and will continue to do so.
We cashed in a CD that had been given by the estate of Sally Eager, and which was sitting in the bank earning next to no interest. That money will be used as Mrs. Eager intended and as she stipulated in her will (she died in 1991) to put on cultural programs. The money we give to the Grove Society will come out of Mrs. Eager's donation, and will be used to implement Civil War 150 Years Commemoration programs.
It is important to understand that these gifts are not intended to be used for Library operations expenses. If the Library were to use these monies as part of the annual budget, people would stop donating. Who wants to give money that'll be used to pay the Water & Light bill instead of to buy new books?
These gifts purchase materials and pay for programs that would NOT be possible without them.
\
To reiterate, the Library has been given many monetary gifts over the years, usually in the form of memorials. Often, but not always, the gifts are made with the stipulation that the Library purchase materials and/or create and implement cultural programs. We are stepping up our efforts to do just that.
For example, the friends and family of Larry Gransee made generous donations to a fund in his memory, with the request that we use that money to put on children's programs that will enhance children's education. We have done so since the fund was created, and will continue to do so.
We cashed in a CD that had been given by the estate of Sally Eager, and which was sitting in the bank earning next to no interest. That money will be used as Mrs. Eager intended and as she stipulated in her will (she died in 1991) to put on cultural programs. The money we give to the Grove Society will come out of Mrs. Eager's donation, and will be used to implement Civil War 150 Years Commemoration programs.
It is important to understand that these gifts are not intended to be used for Library operations expenses. If the Library were to use these monies as part of the annual budget, people would stop donating. Who wants to give money that'll be used to pay the Water & Light bill instead of to buy new books?
These gifts purchase materials and pay for programs that would NOT be possible without them.
\
CapTimes connects the dots between Koch and Wisconsin Water Quality
Click on the post for the latest from the CapTimes.
Tales From Normal, Mn.: City Daytrades Room Tax Receivable: FICTION
Click on the post for a post from September 2010.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Daily Planet: Is LGA (local Goverment Aid) just welfare for cities?
click on the post for the article from the Daily Planet from Minnesota.
Monday, April 11, 2011
The New Robin Hood
If the rich are't paying any taxes, how was it that there was any transfer from the rich to poor?
Is it not the poor transferring to the poor? or phrased in a different way, the poor helping each other.
Is it not the poor transferring to the poor? or phrased in a different way, the poor helping each other.
"If They're Not at the Table....You don't Speak for Them":
This was one of the key ideas that I got out of a conference this past Saturday of leaders from the recent Madison demonstrations that reviewed the elements of creating a successful movement.....
The second idea I found striking was that there was NO traditional media used in the recent movement....it was done by social media or pamphlets or person to person or organization to organization contact. People to people. If you could have told me that one could get 100,000 folks at the Capitol without traditional media, I would never have believed....and they also said they have no intention of any traditional media for the future. Make a note of it.
The second idea I found striking was that there was NO traditional media used in the recent movement....it was done by social media or pamphlets or person to person or organization to organization contact. People to people. If you could have told me that one could get 100,000 folks at the Capitol without traditional media, I would never have believed....and they also said they have no intention of any traditional media for the future. Make a note of it.
Mailbag: A call to action on Wis. Supreme Court Election
I'm sure you have all seen the alarming news: Waukesha County Clerk Kathy Nickolaus, a long-time Republican operative, has magically uncovered over 14,000 votes two days after the election and turning it in favor of her former boss, David Prosser.
Wisconsin deserves answers while this election remains undeclared. Add your name to the letter calling for an immediate and thorough investigation by Attorney General JB Van Hollen's Wisconsin Election Integrity Task Force -- and to ensure it is a bipartisan effort that he include Milwaukee District Attorney John Chisholm, who has worked closely with the task force.
https://secure3.convio.net/pn/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=985
Please sign today and encourage your friends and family so we have a united voice in this call to action.
Remember that under the demands of the conservative noise machine, law enforcement in Wisconsin has spent untold amounts of our tax dollars to investigate so-called voter fraud since 2004, turning up less than three dozen improperly-cast votes out of six million votes.
With the 14,000 ballots in question and the integrity of our entire electoral process under threat, a full and complete investigation of Nickolaus, her computer and her files must commence immediately.
Add your name to our letter to Attorney General Van Hollen:
https://secure3.convio.net/pn/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=985
The facts are still coming out about the mysteriously-discovered votes in Waukesha, but here is what we know so far:
* Waukesha County Clerk Kathy Nickolaus worked for Republican Assembly Caucus under the leadership of David Prosser
* Nickolaus dismissed an independent audit commissioned over concerns there are massive security threats in the system she maintains. Nickolaus maintains a secret system for keeping public voting data and laughed off the audit, drawing criticism from the Waukesha County Board Chair
* Nickolaus was one of two database experts for Assembly Republicans, spending 13 years becoming one of the state's leading partisan experts on manipulating voter data
Attorney General Van Hollen has made investigating and prosecuting so-called voter fraud and protecting the integrity one of his top priorities, and the Wisconsin Election Integrity Task Force is uniquely equipped to conduct a thorough, bipartisan investigation into the contested Waukesha vote numbers.
Add your voice to the growing call for Attorney General Van Hollen to take the lead in this investigation and provide a bipartisan and independent investigation into what occurred in Waukesha.
https://secure3.convio.net/pn/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=985
We must get to the bottom of this -- the people of Wisconsin deserve answers and to know that our elections are clean, fair and transparent.
To take action on this issue, click on the link below:
http://onewisconsinnow.pnstate.org/site/Advocacy?s_oo=rPtKDqCEB9yljCZkW8Ldsw..&id=985
If the text above does not appear as a link or it wraps across multiple lines, then copy and paste it into the address area of your browser.
Wisconsin deserves answers while this election remains undeclared. Add your name to the letter calling for an immediate and thorough investigation by Attorney General JB Van Hollen's Wisconsin Election Integrity Task Force -- and to ensure it is a bipartisan effort that he include Milwaukee District Attorney John Chisholm, who has worked closely with the task force.
https://secure3.convio.net/pn/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=985
Please sign today and encourage your friends and family so we have a united voice in this call to action.
Remember that under the demands of the conservative noise machine, law enforcement in Wisconsin has spent untold amounts of our tax dollars to investigate so-called voter fraud since 2004, turning up less than three dozen improperly-cast votes out of six million votes.
With the 14,000 ballots in question and the integrity of our entire electoral process under threat, a full and complete investigation of Nickolaus, her computer and her files must commence immediately.
Add your name to our letter to Attorney General Van Hollen:
https://secure3.convio.net/pn/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=985
The facts are still coming out about the mysteriously-discovered votes in Waukesha, but here is what we know so far:
* Waukesha County Clerk Kathy Nickolaus worked for Republican Assembly Caucus under the leadership of David Prosser
* Nickolaus dismissed an independent audit commissioned over concerns there are massive security threats in the system she maintains. Nickolaus maintains a secret system for keeping public voting data and laughed off the audit, drawing criticism from the Waukesha County Board Chair
* Nickolaus was one of two database experts for Assembly Republicans, spending 13 years becoming one of the state's leading partisan experts on manipulating voter data
Attorney General Van Hollen has made investigating and prosecuting so-called voter fraud and protecting the integrity one of his top priorities, and the Wisconsin Election Integrity Task Force is uniquely equipped to conduct a thorough, bipartisan investigation into the contested Waukesha vote numbers.
Add your voice to the growing call for Attorney General Van Hollen to take the lead in this investigation and provide a bipartisan and independent investigation into what occurred in Waukesha.
https://secure3.convio.net/pn/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=985
We must get to the bottom of this -- the people of Wisconsin deserve answers and to know that our elections are clean, fair and transparent.
To take action on this issue, click on the link below:
http://onewisconsinnow.pnstate.org/site/Advocacy?s_oo=rPtKDqCEB9yljCZkW8Ldsw..&id=985
If the text above does not appear as a link or it wraps across multiple lines, then copy and paste it into the address area of your browser.
Video: 2007: Evansville Economic Dreams; Decker Speaks
2007: Video: Then and Now: Mayor Sandy Decker begins the 2007 Evansville Economic Development Conference
Download File
Download File
Mar 2007: Supr.Carvin - Planning Commission
Planning Commission meeting of Monday, Mar. 5, 2007. Supr. Heidi Carvin reviews enrollement data and projections, reviews building permits for Evansville and Union; Answers questions
MP3 File
MP3 File
I and E Club Meets Wednesday, April, 13th
FYI: April 13, the Evansville Area Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club will host a speaker and annual elections. Volunteer for an officer role and watch yourself grow!
See you Wednesday.
Business Cooperatives Create Value
Explore “The Cooperative Difference” with Lynn Pitman of the University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives. Pitman is speaking at the monthly meeting of the Evansville Area Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club. Free and open to the public, the meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 13, in the lower level of the Eager Economy Building at 7 E. Main St., Evansville. Pitman will address how cooperatives can be used to meet a group’s common needs, such as space or supplies or marketing. For example, an innovative group of senior citizens created a cooperative for multiple houses on shared land.
Refreshments are sponsored by Tom Calley, a Certified Insurance Counselor with Dave Mosher & Associates in Evansville. Calley, who is licensed in life, health, property and casualty lines, is based in Evansville and can be reached at 882-0000. Information about I&E Club is available by calling John Gishnock at 608-314-6656 or Sue Berg at 882-0986.
See you Wednesday.
Business Cooperatives Create Value
Explore “The Cooperative Difference” with Lynn Pitman of the University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives. Pitman is speaking at the monthly meeting of the Evansville Area Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club. Free and open to the public, the meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 13, in the lower level of the Eager Economy Building at 7 E. Main St., Evansville. Pitman will address how cooperatives can be used to meet a group’s common needs, such as space or supplies or marketing. For example, an innovative group of senior citizens created a cooperative for multiple houses on shared land.
Refreshments are sponsored by Tom Calley, a Certified Insurance Counselor with Dave Mosher & Associates in Evansville. Calley, who is licensed in life, health, property and casualty lines, is based in Evansville and can be reached at 882-0000. Information about I&E Club is available by calling John Gishnock at 608-314-6656 or Sue Berg at 882-0986.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Friday, April 08, 2011
Video: Kendall Schneider "Sustainable" Growth
Video: Evansville/Union Joint Meeting on April 7, 2011. Kendall Schneider, Town of Union Chair speaks of "Sustainable Growth"
Download File
Download File
Video: Decker Committed to "Responsible" Growth
Video: Evansville/Union joint Board meeting on April 7, 2011; Mayor Sandy Decker speaks on where she is coming from on farmland preservation and responsible growth.
Download File
Download File
Thursday, April 07, 2011
TONIGHT: City of Evansville and Town of Union plan special Joint Meeting--April 7th
SPECIAL JOINT MEETING
City of Evansville Common Council
Town of Union Board
Thursday, April 7, 2011, 7:00 p.m.
Fire Station
425 Water Street
Evansville, WI
1. Call to order.
2. Introduction of members. Roll call.
3. Approval of agenda.
4. Discussion of cooperative agreements. No action will be taken.
5. Adjourn.
Sandra J. Decker, Mayor
Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this
meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much
advance notice as possible.
Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.
City of Evansville Common Council
Town of Union Board
Thursday, April 7, 2011, 7:00 p.m.
Fire Station
425 Water Street
Evansville, WI
1. Call to order.
2. Introduction of members. Roll call.
3. Approval of agenda.
4. Discussion of cooperative agreements. No action will be taken.
5. Adjourn.
Sandra J. Decker, Mayor
Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this
meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much
advance notice as possible.
Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
Yahoo: Will Seniors Cut their Social Security rather than War?
Click on the post for the article in yahoo.
Audio; VarcoPruden Site Plan Addition
Audio; Evansville Planning Commission: Monday, April 4, 2011. Approval of VarcoPruden site plan addition
MP3 File
MP3 File
Audio: Piggly Wiggly Expansion approved
Audio; Evansville Planning Commission; April 4, 2011. Original design had expansion envisioned.
MP3 File
MP3 File
Audio; Park Place
Audio; Evansville Planning Commission; Monday, April 4, 2011. Change of use to multifamily due to slow single housing market. Ironic opening to meeting where the focus was extensive enginnering over the next twenty years to meet demand for single family housing, even though there are 7 years of lots available, and shadow inventory of homes that could be listed that is unknown.
MP3 File
MP3 File
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
Notice: The Wisconsin People's Assembly
They have their house. It's time we built our own house. It's time for the . . .
WISCONSIN PEOPLE’S ASSEMBLY
Downtown Campus of Madison Area Technical College
The evening of Saturday, April 9th . . .
. . . through the evening of Sunday, April 10th . . .
Spend Sunday, April 10th, and the previous Saturday evening, in Madison with hundreds if not thousands of other Wisconsinites as we convene the first in a series of meetings of the Wisconsin People’s Assembly. By participating in the Assembly, you will have the opportunity to meet, learn from, and build lasting personal connections with Wisconsinites coming from all trades, communities, and backgrounds. Together, we will create the kind of solidarity and strategies required to overcome the corporate takeover of our state, reverse the damage that has already been done, and win reforms that strengthen Wisconsin's democracy for future generations to come.
This first Wisconsin People's Assembly will focus on three common themes:
•Building a Popular Movement -- that overcomes segregation and discrimination and unites all of us in common cause.
•Direct Action Campaigning -- in order to achieve the will of the people when the official government closes its doors to us.
•Winning Democracy -- by strengthening local democracy, expanding participation, democratizing elections, and amending our constitution.
The Wisconsin People’s Assembly is convened by the Wisconsin Wave, a popular mobilization of workers, students, farmers, small business owners, the unemployed, retirees and others against corporatization and austerity, and for democracy and shared prosperity. The Wisconsin Wave is organized around a founding document, available here, and the following six principles:
1.Our state government must guarantee a fully funded public sector including education, health care, human services, transportation, public safety, and vital regulatory agencies.
2.Taxes on large corporations and wealthy individuals should be returned to reasonable levels in order to solve the state’s fiscal crisis.
3.The state must respect the rights of workers to organize unions and bargain collectively.
4.Initial budget priorities must be established through public participation instead of closed door meetings between public officials and special interest lobbyists.
5.Voting rights must be expanded, not limited, to insure that every Wisconsinite can take part in our democracy.
6.Wisconsin deserves government of, by, and for the people, not the corporate elite; corporations have no constitutional rights and may not buy our elections or government.
For more information on the Wisconsin Wave, see the website at http://www.WisconsinWave.org. If your organization would like to endorse this movement, please click here.
REGISTER NOW:
http://www.WisconsinPeoplesAssembly.org
WISCONSIN PEOPLE’S ASSEMBLY
Downtown Campus of Madison Area Technical College
The evening of Saturday, April 9th . . .
. . . through the evening of Sunday, April 10th . . .
Spend Sunday, April 10th, and the previous Saturday evening, in Madison with hundreds if not thousands of other Wisconsinites as we convene the first in a series of meetings of the Wisconsin People’s Assembly. By participating in the Assembly, you will have the opportunity to meet, learn from, and build lasting personal connections with Wisconsinites coming from all trades, communities, and backgrounds. Together, we will create the kind of solidarity and strategies required to overcome the corporate takeover of our state, reverse the damage that has already been done, and win reforms that strengthen Wisconsin's democracy for future generations to come.
This first Wisconsin People's Assembly will focus on three common themes:
•Building a Popular Movement -- that overcomes segregation and discrimination and unites all of us in common cause.
•Direct Action Campaigning -- in order to achieve the will of the people when the official government closes its doors to us.
•Winning Democracy -- by strengthening local democracy, expanding participation, democratizing elections, and amending our constitution.
The Wisconsin People’s Assembly is convened by the Wisconsin Wave, a popular mobilization of workers, students, farmers, small business owners, the unemployed, retirees and others against corporatization and austerity, and for democracy and shared prosperity. The Wisconsin Wave is organized around a founding document, available here, and the following six principles:
1.Our state government must guarantee a fully funded public sector including education, health care, human services, transportation, public safety, and vital regulatory agencies.
2.Taxes on large corporations and wealthy individuals should be returned to reasonable levels in order to solve the state’s fiscal crisis.
3.The state must respect the rights of workers to organize unions and bargain collectively.
4.Initial budget priorities must be established through public participation instead of closed door meetings between public officials and special interest lobbyists.
5.Voting rights must be expanded, not limited, to insure that every Wisconsinite can take part in our democracy.
6.Wisconsin deserves government of, by, and for the people, not the corporate elite; corporations have no constitutional rights and may not buy our elections or government.
For more information on the Wisconsin Wave, see the website at http://www.WisconsinWave.org. If your organization would like to endorse this movement, please click here.
REGISTER NOW:
http://www.WisconsinPeoplesAssembly.org
UWRF Wins Dairy Award; Congrats to Prof. Dennis Cooper and Students
If you are thinking of a career in Ag Science, and are thinking of the U
W River Falls, you should stop in to meet Prof. Cooper. Tell him I sent you.
Click on the post for the details on the award.
W River Falls, you should stop in to meet Prof. Cooper. Tell him I sent you.
Click on the post for the details on the award.
"The Wind Turbine Land Agent": The Movie: by Jim
Click on the post for this classic movie by Jim. Enjoy.
Monday, April 04, 2011
Audio; Evansville Comprehensive Plan :: 4/4/2011: John Stockham Presents
Presentation by John Stockham at Evansville Planning Commission on Monday, April 4, 2011----This meeting was adjourned after this initial presentation because of inadequate space. The presentaion will be made again and time alloted for comments from the public.....the City of Evansville will advertise the new time and place of meeting.
MP3 File
MP3 File
OpEd: Reelect Barb Jacobson to Evansville Common Council
Why? When the time comes in any discussion at Evansville Common Council, when there is a difficult question that is needed to be asked, Barb steps up and asks it. Whether it involves conflict of interest or whatever, she performs her function as councilperson with courage and dignity and represents the citizen interest as best she can. I fully recommend her to my readers.
Porky's Drive Inn Closes in St. Paul: End of an Era: Pioneer Press
Cruising down University Avenue will come to a close as the light rail construction begins. Click on the post for the story with pictures.
Sunday, April 03, 2011
"There's a Land Grab for Failed Septic Systems": Tales From Normal, Mn.: FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
OpEd: "Everything is At Stake---We must defeat Prosser": ---Ed Garvey
At a recent Progressive rally Ed Garvey explained that this Supreme Court race is the key to the future----at the Supreme Court is where key issues will be decided, and an independent judiciary is key to getting a fair hearing for every citizen in Wisconsin.
His final words remain in my head: "We must defeat Prosser---Everything is at stake."
His final words remain in my head: "We must defeat Prosser---Everything is at stake."
Judge Tom Alisankus Speaks on Justice Prosser:
April 3, 2011
To the citizens of Evansville and Union Township:
I have had a number of people ask me my ‘official’ thoughts about Tuesday’s Supreme Court election. As your Municipal Court Judge for the past 19 years, I’ve never thought it necessary to publicly share my thoughts on a Supreme Court race before. For obvious reasons, this time it’s different; since so many have asked, I’ve decided to share these thoughts with all of you.
In short, Justice Prosser’s judicial temperament—or lack thereof—concerns me. What concerns me more, though, is attempts to justify what he did. I’m speaking of his acknowledgement in last week’s Journal Sentinel that he called the Chief Justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court a “total bitch”, and that he “would destroy her”. Frankly, that’s not what I expect of a Justice; I don’t need to dwell on why.
But what Justice Prosser said when asked to explain the circumstances was even worse: He stated that the Chief Justice “goaded” him into saying that. I’m sorry; I’ve spent the last 19 years telling defendants—mostly juveniles—that verbal provocation NEVER justifies inappropriate responses. I expect more and better from a sitting Justice on the Supreme Court.
This is not the first, or only time Justice Prosser has demonstrated a complete lack of judicial temperament. This is the first time I’m aware of that he’s tried to defend—if not rationalize it.
I am also very disappointed and concerned that a sitting justice would run a re-election advertisement stating, as Justice Prosser did, that he would be a “compliment” to the newly elected governor and legislature, and that he “shared” their conservative philosophies. Judicial races are supposed to be non-partisan; Justices are supposed to be independent. Justice Prosser tried to blame a ‘new campaign manager’ for running that ad without the Justice’s permission. That is such a weak response for someone as experienced as he is in elections, I needn’t explain why.
In summary, Justice Prosser has demonstrated a complete lack of judicial temperament, respect, and independence. These are essential qualities, necessary for someone who has the capacity and authority to make life-altering decisions, as well as someone who helps supervise the entire judiciary of the State. In good conscience, I cannot support his re-election.
To the citizens of Evansville and Union Township:
I have had a number of people ask me my ‘official’ thoughts about Tuesday’s Supreme Court election. As your Municipal Court Judge for the past 19 years, I’ve never thought it necessary to publicly share my thoughts on a Supreme Court race before. For obvious reasons, this time it’s different; since so many have asked, I’ve decided to share these thoughts with all of you.
In short, Justice Prosser’s judicial temperament—or lack thereof—concerns me. What concerns me more, though, is attempts to justify what he did. I’m speaking of his acknowledgement in last week’s Journal Sentinel that he called the Chief Justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court a “total bitch”, and that he “would destroy her”. Frankly, that’s not what I expect of a Justice; I don’t need to dwell on why.
But what Justice Prosser said when asked to explain the circumstances was even worse: He stated that the Chief Justice “goaded” him into saying that. I’m sorry; I’ve spent the last 19 years telling defendants—mostly juveniles—that verbal provocation NEVER justifies inappropriate responses. I expect more and better from a sitting Justice on the Supreme Court.
This is not the first, or only time Justice Prosser has demonstrated a complete lack of judicial temperament. This is the first time I’m aware of that he’s tried to defend—if not rationalize it.
I am also very disappointed and concerned that a sitting justice would run a re-election advertisement stating, as Justice Prosser did, that he would be a “compliment” to the newly elected governor and legislature, and that he “shared” their conservative philosophies. Judicial races are supposed to be non-partisan; Justices are supposed to be independent. Justice Prosser tried to blame a ‘new campaign manager’ for running that ad without the Justice’s permission. That is such a weak response for someone as experienced as he is in elections, I needn’t explain why.
In summary, Justice Prosser has demonstrated a complete lack of judicial temperament, respect, and independence. These are essential qualities, necessary for someone who has the capacity and authority to make life-altering decisions, as well as someone who helps supervise the entire judiciary of the State. In good conscience, I cannot support his re-election.
Evansville Comprehensive Plan: The Details:
Click on the post for the Evansville Comprehensive Plan that will be discussed Monday night at 6PM. This is a must meeting for citizens. Yes. More important than going to Madison for a rally, or watching the Final Four. Think of it as kind of a Civil War Reinactment.
Is the Evansville Smart Growth Plan a Land Grab?: Gazette
The much heralded Planning Commission meeting will be on Monday night, right in the middle of the Final Four basketball game...how timely for a full and public discussion of the future of Evansville. Someday, all of the city meetings will be held on just Superbowl Sunday and the Final Four.
Click on the post for the article in the Janesville Gazette.
Click on the post for the article in the Janesville Gazette.
Friday, April 01, 2011
"We are in Solid Financial Position but...cannot give any workers ANY raise"; Tales From Normal, Mn.; FICTION
Click on the post for the latest.
Who Pays for All Those Lift Stations?
Click on the post for the minutes from the February 2011 planning commission meeting.
Agenda: Planning Commission; Monday, April 4, 2011:
NOTICE
The regular meeting of the Evansville Plan Commission will be held on the date and time stated below at City Hall (Third Floor), 31 South Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin. Notice is further given that members of the City Council might be in attendance.
City of Evansville Plan Commission
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 4, 2011, 6:00 p.m.
City Hall (Third Floor), 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI
AGENDA
1. Call to order
2. Roll call
3. Approval of agenda
4. Approval of minutes
A. Motion to waive the reading of the minutes from February 7, 2011 regular meeting and approve them as printed
5. Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed
6. New Business
A. Conditional Use Permit – Ideal Auto LLC
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Applicant Comments
iii. Public Hearing
iv. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
v. Motion
B. Final Land Division – Park Place Townhomes, Porter Road
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Applicant Comments
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
iv. Motion
C. Site Plan Review – Varco Pruden Addition
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Applicant Comments
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
iv. Motion
D. Site Plan Review – Piggly-Wiggly Addition
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Applicant Comments
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
iv. Motion
E. Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Sign Regulations
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Public Hearing
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
iv. Motion
7. Old Business
A. Comprehensive Plan Amendment
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Public Hearing
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
iv. Resolution
B. Land Division Ordinance Amendment
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Public Hearing
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
iv. Motion
8. Report on other permitting activity by City Planner
9. Report by City Administrator
A. Request For Proposals (RFP) for Planning Services
B. Evansville/Union meeting Thursday, April 7.
10. Report on the Unified Land Development Code Committee
11. Report of the Evansville Historic Preservation Commission
12. Report of the Evansville-Union Implementation Committee
13. Report on Common Council actions relating to Plan Commission recommendations
14. Report on Board of Appeals actions relating to zoning matters
15. Enforcement Report
16. Next regular meeting date - Monday, May 2, 2011
17. Motion to adjourn
Mayor Sandra J. Decker, Plan Commission Chair
Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible.
Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.
The regular meeting of the Evansville Plan Commission will be held on the date and time stated below at City Hall (Third Floor), 31 South Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin. Notice is further given that members of the City Council might be in attendance.
City of Evansville Plan Commission
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 4, 2011, 6:00 p.m.
City Hall (Third Floor), 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI
AGENDA
1. Call to order
2. Roll call
3. Approval of agenda
4. Approval of minutes
A. Motion to waive the reading of the minutes from February 7, 2011 regular meeting and approve them as printed
5. Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed
6. New Business
A. Conditional Use Permit – Ideal Auto LLC
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Applicant Comments
iii. Public Hearing
iv. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
v. Motion
B. Final Land Division – Park Place Townhomes, Porter Road
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Applicant Comments
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
iv. Motion
C. Site Plan Review – Varco Pruden Addition
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Applicant Comments
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
iv. Motion
D. Site Plan Review – Piggly-Wiggly Addition
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Applicant Comments
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
iv. Motion
E. Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Sign Regulations
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Public Hearing
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
iv. Motion
7. Old Business
A. Comprehensive Plan Amendment
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Public Hearing
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
iv. Resolution
B. Land Division Ordinance Amendment
i. Initial Staff Comments
ii. Public Hearing
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments
iv. Motion
8. Report on other permitting activity by City Planner
9. Report by City Administrator
A. Request For Proposals (RFP) for Planning Services
B. Evansville/Union meeting Thursday, April 7.
10. Report on the Unified Land Development Code Committee
11. Report of the Evansville Historic Preservation Commission
12. Report of the Evansville-Union Implementation Committee
13. Report on Common Council actions relating to Plan Commission recommendations
14. Report on Board of Appeals actions relating to zoning matters
15. Enforcement Report
16. Next regular meeting date - Monday, May 2, 2011
17. Motion to adjourn
Mayor Sandra J. Decker, Plan Commission Chair
Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible.
Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.
Nostalgia; 2005: Audio; 'On Blueberry Ice Cream" by Mr. Michael Pierick
2005: Classic speech by Mr. Michael Pierick to the Evansville Planning Commission in joint session with Union, on the impact of residential growth and action or no action of restraint and planning and what the result might be.
MP3 File
MP3 File
Former Gov. Lucey leaves Prosser Campaign: Endorses Kloppenburg
Click on the post for the latest. Here is the exam question: Compare and contrast FOX News and the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Explain your answer.
Wall Street: Minyanville: " Extend and Pretend"
Click on the post for the full analysis. There will be consequences for future financial health.