Sunday, July 15, 2007
Background; SubPrime Mortgage Lending Crisis
Click on the post for a background paper on what the "subprime mortgage problem" is about. Enjoy.
School Board Meets Monday night, July 16, 2007.
Click on the post for the full agenda for the Monday night meeting.
Homework: Public Benefits meeting on Monday Morning, 7:30AM
(Ed. note: If you plan on attending the meeting on Monday morning at the Village Square Restaurant at 7:30AM re the WPPI relevant service for program administration of the Public Benefit portion of the electric rates, see the homework suggestion prior to the meeting. See the agenda blog for the full agenda.)
Hi All,
Before the meeting, please take a few minutes to become familiar with the WPPI programs. Alicia lists those of particular interest for Public Benefits below, but you might want to explore further for industrial/commerical, alternative energy, and other types of programs that the Evansville Initiative might get behind. See message below.
gdl
The WPPI website definitely has a lot of good information about our programs. The website is: http://www.wppisys.org/programs_services/default.asp?CategoryID=12. The sections that apply to the Public Benefits Committee would be the "Residential customers" and "Income-qualified customers" sections on this page.
Other websites that contain information about public benefits programs include:
Focus On Energy: http://www.focusonenergy.com/
Wisconsin Department of Administration: http://www.doa.state.wi.us/
Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation: http://www.weccusa.org/
Energy Star: http://www.energystar.gov/
In the meeting WPPI Rep, Alicia VandenOever will cover how each of these organizations is involved with public benefits.
Hi All,
Before the meeting, please take a few minutes to become familiar with the WPPI programs. Alicia lists those of particular interest for Public Benefits below, but you might want to explore further for industrial/commerical, alternative energy, and other types of programs that the Evansville Initiative might get behind. See message below.
gdl
The WPPI website definitely has a lot of good information about our programs. The website is: http://www.wppisys.org/programs_services/default.asp?CategoryID=12. The sections that apply to the Public Benefits Committee would be the "Residential customers" and "Income-qualified customers" sections on this page.
Other websites that contain information about public benefits programs include:
Focus On Energy: http://www.focusonenergy.com/
Wisconsin Department of Administration: http://www.doa.state.wi.us/
Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation: http://www.weccusa.org/
Energy Star: http://www.energystar.gov/
In the meeting WPPI Rep, Alicia VandenOever will cover how each of these organizations is involved with public benefits.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
NYT: Finance: "Emptying the Nest Egg....etc."--the squeeze of the baby boomers
Click on the post for a timely article from the New York Times for every parent of college grads. Enjoy.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Dateline Carver Co, MN.; "Social Host" ordinance considered; Could we be next?
Ordinance holds property owner liable for underage drinking even if not present at time. Criminal as well as civil penalties. The ordinance is an attempt to curb "field parties" in remote areas. Click on the post for the full story in the Mpls Star.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Dateline London: Police to get "Headcams"----
Click on the post for the latest.
At about $3400 it is a little too expensive for The Observer. Relax.
At about $3400 it is a little too expensive for The Observer. Relax.
Dateline Normal, Mn.: "The Legacy Thang"---FICTION
(ed.note: This is the latest of a long series of tales from Normal, Mn., a small fishing village just south of Garrison, Mn., and west of the Land of Lake Woebegone. It is a land of FICTION, but other than that.....)
Click on the post for the latest.
Click on the post for the latest.
Congressman Sensenbrenner Introduces Bill to reverse Kelo v. New London;
(Ed. note: As I understand it, Wisconsin has already changed their law regarding this, but this legislation would be national in scope.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Raj Bharwani
July 12, 2007 (202) 225-5101
Sensenbrenner Introduces Legislation to
Overturn Supreme Court Case Kelo v. New London
(WASHINGTON, DC) -- Congressman F. James Sensenbrenner (R- Menomonee Falls), along
with Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), today introduced the Private Property Rights
Protection Act of 2007, to restore the property rights of all Americans that the Supreme Court took
away two years ago in Kelo v. City of New London. Joining these two will be other Members of
Congress, as well as Ms. Susette Kelo, whose home was the subject of the Supreme Court decision
that this bill attempts to rectify.
In the 5-4 Kelo decision, the Court held that the government’s taking of private property for
“economic development” can be a “public use” under the Fifth Amendment’s Taking Clause. In
doing so, the Court radically transformed the private property protections written into our
Constitution by effectively gutting the Fifth Amendment of this “public use” requirement, and
permitting the government to seize one homeowner’s private property to give it to a large
corporation for a private business use.
The Private Property Rights Protection Act of 2007 would prevent the federal government from
using economic development as a justification for exercising its power of eminent domain. This
legislation would also seek to discourage states and localities from abusing their eminent domain
powers by denying them federal development funds for a period of two years.
Today’s bill is similar to H.R. 4128, which overwhelmingly passed the House in 2005, by a vote of
376-38. This year’s version includes a new provision to protect not only homeowners, but also
tenants. Tenants who may lose their homes if the government exercises its eminent domain
authority should have the same right of action as a property owner who suffers injury. In the event
that a property owner or tenant is unable to bring a lawsuit to court, this legislation enables the
individual to file a report of violation with the Attorney General, who will enforce the act if it is
determined there is evidence of a violation.
“Property rights are civil rights,” said Sensenbrenner. “There can be no individual freedom without
the power of an individual to control his or her own autonomy through the free use of his or her
own property.”
“The Supreme Court’s decision poses an immediate threat to the essential freedoms of private
property owners,” Sensenbrenner continued. “This legislation is critical because if Congress does
not act, then the most likely victims of this decision will be the most vulnerable in our society.”
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Raj Bharwani
July 12, 2007 (202) 225-5101
Sensenbrenner Introduces Legislation to
Overturn Supreme Court Case Kelo v. New London
(WASHINGTON, DC) -- Congressman F. James Sensenbrenner (R- Menomonee Falls), along
with Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), today introduced the Private Property Rights
Protection Act of 2007, to restore the property rights of all Americans that the Supreme Court took
away two years ago in Kelo v. City of New London. Joining these two will be other Members of
Congress, as well as Ms. Susette Kelo, whose home was the subject of the Supreme Court decision
that this bill attempts to rectify.
In the 5-4 Kelo decision, the Court held that the government’s taking of private property for
“economic development” can be a “public use” under the Fifth Amendment’s Taking Clause. In
doing so, the Court radically transformed the private property protections written into our
Constitution by effectively gutting the Fifth Amendment of this “public use” requirement, and
permitting the government to seize one homeowner’s private property to give it to a large
corporation for a private business use.
The Private Property Rights Protection Act of 2007 would prevent the federal government from
using economic development as a justification for exercising its power of eminent domain. This
legislation would also seek to discourage states and localities from abusing their eminent domain
powers by denying them federal development funds for a period of two years.
Today’s bill is similar to H.R. 4128, which overwhelmingly passed the House in 2005, by a vote of
376-38. This year’s version includes a new provision to protect not only homeowners, but also
tenants. Tenants who may lose their homes if the government exercises its eminent domain
authority should have the same right of action as a property owner who suffers injury. In the event
that a property owner or tenant is unable to bring a lawsuit to court, this legislation enables the
individual to file a report of violation with the Attorney General, who will enforce the act if it is
determined there is evidence of a violation.
“Property rights are civil rights,” said Sensenbrenner. “There can be no individual freedom without
the power of an individual to control his or her own autonomy through the free use of his or her
own property.”
“The Supreme Court’s decision poses an immediate threat to the essential freedoms of private
property owners,” Sensenbrenner continued. “This legislation is critical because if Congress does
not act, then the most likely victims of this decision will be the most vulnerable in our society.”
###
"Grumps" weighs in on the Republican version of Wis. Budget
Click on the post for "Grumps" view of the recent Republican version of Wisconsin state budget.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Lake Leota Bridge---a special message
This video moment from The Evansville Observer is brought to you as a public service. Turn the volume up to hear the singing.
Download File
Download File
Dateline Normal: The Fishing Pole Rack---The Key to Success;
Ed.note: Double click on photo for largest version.)
$99.00
Wood fish extra
Shipped flat ready to stain
Need a screw drive to assemble
Standard unit cedar
Allow 3 to 4 weeks for shipment
All product shipped courtesy of Sunrise Packaging---offical packaging for
The Evansville Observer.
One of the inner secrets of fishing is that it is not just the pole----but the RACK for the poles that is important. Style matters. Here is the custom fishing pole rack from Normal, Mn. that sets the standard nationwide. The catalog item number shown is for the 6 pole model, finished.
Please address inquiries to Land of Normal, Fishing pole rack at fre2observe@yahoo.com for custom quotation. Do not be fooled by look alikes. The custom craftsmanship by the staff at Normal is unique.
$99.00
Wood fish extra
Shipped flat ready to stain
Need a screw drive to assemble
Standard unit cedar
Allow 3 to 4 weeks for shipment
All product shipped courtesy of Sunrise Packaging---offical packaging for
The Evansville Observer.
One of the inner secrets of fishing is that it is not just the pole----but the RACK for the poles that is important. Style matters. Here is the custom fishing pole rack from Normal, Mn. that sets the standard nationwide. The catalog item number shown is for the 6 pole model, finished.
Please address inquiries to Land of Normal, Fishing pole rack at fre2observe@yahoo.com for custom quotation. Do not be fooled by look alikes. The custom craftsmanship by the staff at Normal is unique.
Gazette Corner: Huge Budget differences signal looming battle
Click on the post for the article in the Janesville Gazette regarding the huge difference between the Republican Assembly version of the Wisconsin State budget and the Senate version.
There is a large difference between the proposed 4% cap on property tax increases that Gov. Doyle had proposed and the Republican Assembly version which left the increase at the percent of increased construction for the calendar year. Given the slow construction growth here in Evansville, if the Republican version holds, there could be some scrambling to cover the annualized costs of increased FTE's that were added.
The Gazette article suggests that the compromise could come late---that spells a difficult time for municipalities as they try to nail down the numbers. Stay tuned. The budget season is near.
There is a large difference between the proposed 4% cap on property tax increases that Gov. Doyle had proposed and the Republican Assembly version which left the increase at the percent of increased construction for the calendar year. Given the slow construction growth here in Evansville, if the Republican version holds, there could be some scrambling to cover the annualized costs of increased FTE's that were added.
The Gazette article suggests that the compromise could come late---that spells a difficult time for municipalities as they try to nail down the numbers. Stay tuned. The budget season is near.
Gazette Corner: Janesville School District questions 4k Proposal
Click on the post for the latest on the 4K proposal for Janesville Schools.
It is so that at the last Evansville School Board meeting Mr. Larson asked that a review of 4k be listed as one of the goals of the district for 2007-8. Mr. Michael Pierick has been on record that any further usage of time on this issue would be divisive and a waste of community resources. The Observer agrees.
Other goals were Mr. Hatfield's note that the financial plan of the school district needs to be firmed up....Other goals were relating to improvement of the relationship of the board to Administration specifically "coordination", and also an improvement of the communication of the district with the public. The Observer agrees with these goals.
I do hope the Evansville School board will vote to remove any discussion of 4K from the table as a goal for 2007-8 school year. Communication is a two way street. Removal of this divisive item would signal that the Administration can listen. It would be a step forward. Amen.
It is so that at the last Evansville School Board meeting Mr. Larson asked that a review of 4k be listed as one of the goals of the district for 2007-8. Mr. Michael Pierick has been on record that any further usage of time on this issue would be divisive and a waste of community resources. The Observer agrees.
Other goals were Mr. Hatfield's note that the financial plan of the school district needs to be firmed up....Other goals were relating to improvement of the relationship of the board to Administration specifically "coordination", and also an improvement of the communication of the district with the public. The Observer agrees with these goals.
I do hope the Evansville School board will vote to remove any discussion of 4K from the table as a goal for 2007-8 school year. Communication is a two way street. Removal of this divisive item would signal that the Administration can listen. It would be a step forward. Amen.
Nostalgia: (12-31-2006): Dateline Normal: The "Shout and Twist"---not the "Twist and Shout"---Fiction
(Ed.note. The following is one of a series of tales from Normal, Mn.. These tales are available for your listening from the Itunes store at no charge, under podcasts, and titled, "Tales from Normal." When they are mailed out, these tales come on cd, and wrapped in a brown paper wrapper with large letters that say----FICTION. It is certanly a mystery, which came first, the twist or the shout. One of my loyal readers has requested that I republish this famous tale in memory of all those TIF battles of our fair city.)
Last week to get away and bring in the New Year, I headed up that long, long road, Hwy 10, north of the Twin Cities, to my favorite getaway--- Normal, Mn.. Yes, it is not on Google Earth, but then neither is Evansville. It is just south of Garrison, Mn., and just west of that famous Lake Woebegon we read so much of.
I settled in at the Spruce Goose Motel, where all the comforters are down, and where all the beds are the pull down variety, and NO they do not have fine Godiva mints under the pillow, but do leave a couple mini--dove bars in the ash tray during the holidays to get the visitors in the right mood.
After a quick clothing change, I headed over to the local pub, "The Hideaway Lounge, " to meet my old friend, Herman, the country boy lawyer. Herman was several drinks ahead of me, but I ordered a double to catch up. There was some great rock and roll music being played by one of the local bands, and ....the dance floor was hoppin.
I turned and over the loud music, shouted to Herman, "Do you remember the "Twist and Shout". That was a famous oldie in the 60's I think.
"Ya....vaguely," Herman replied. But up here in God's country, we call it the "Shout and Twist."
Then he let out a loud belly laugh.
"Whatever is so funny,?" I asked.
Herman went on, "Well, Wolfman, that's what he always called me, the "Twist and Shout" is kind of a back to the 50's sentimental title. Up here in God's country----- we are all natural----we just see things the way they are. And in the real world, the shoutin comes first."
"I still do not understand," I said.
Herman just smiled. "Well," he said, ",maybe cause I'm a lawyer I have a unique perspective on all this, but in the real world, folks just do not deeply need your services. Ya got to fill them with fear.....yes and also with greeed.....and then you....do the twisting for the money. It is just the same with the big high rollers------they have real moxie......and the "shoutin" always comes first. If they don't get the special deal, why....all the heavens will come crashing down. It will be real bad. But......if......this is the twist part......one could make some further consessions or provide more money at say....no interest.....well ....maybe the end of the world will not occur."
"Shucks, Wolfman, "Twist and Shout is just for rookies. In the real world it is always------- the "Shout and Twist."
Man was that music loud. The drummer was great though, and it was wonderful to get the old dancing shoes on to relieve some of the year end anxiety.
Still----as I drove back home to good Old Wisconsin, I could not get Herman's words out of my head.
Thank goodness I am back home. Where it still is the "Twist and Shout" and not the "Shout and Twist." Where all the shoutin of grade B actors is not followed by a predictable "Twist."
Alleluia.
Last week to get away and bring in the New Year, I headed up that long, long road, Hwy 10, north of the Twin Cities, to my favorite getaway--- Normal, Mn.. Yes, it is not on Google Earth, but then neither is Evansville. It is just south of Garrison, Mn., and just west of that famous Lake Woebegon we read so much of.
I settled in at the Spruce Goose Motel, where all the comforters are down, and where all the beds are the pull down variety, and NO they do not have fine Godiva mints under the pillow, but do leave a couple mini--dove bars in the ash tray during the holidays to get the visitors in the right mood.
After a quick clothing change, I headed over to the local pub, "The Hideaway Lounge, " to meet my old friend, Herman, the country boy lawyer. Herman was several drinks ahead of me, but I ordered a double to catch up. There was some great rock and roll music being played by one of the local bands, and ....the dance floor was hoppin.
I turned and over the loud music, shouted to Herman, "Do you remember the "Twist and Shout". That was a famous oldie in the 60's I think.
"Ya....vaguely," Herman replied. But up here in God's country, we call it the "Shout and Twist."
Then he let out a loud belly laugh.
"Whatever is so funny,?" I asked.
Herman went on, "Well, Wolfman, that's what he always called me, the "Twist and Shout" is kind of a back to the 50's sentimental title. Up here in God's country----- we are all natural----we just see things the way they are. And in the real world, the shoutin comes first."
"I still do not understand," I said.
Herman just smiled. "Well," he said, ",maybe cause I'm a lawyer I have a unique perspective on all this, but in the real world, folks just do not deeply need your services. Ya got to fill them with fear.....yes and also with greeed.....and then you....do the twisting for the money. It is just the same with the big high rollers------they have real moxie......and the "shoutin" always comes first. If they don't get the special deal, why....all the heavens will come crashing down. It will be real bad. But......if......this is the twist part......one could make some further consessions or provide more money at say....no interest.....well ....maybe the end of the world will not occur."
"Shucks, Wolfman, "Twist and Shout is just for rookies. In the real world it is always------- the "Shout and Twist."
Man was that music loud. The drummer was great though, and it was wonderful to get the old dancing shoes on to relieve some of the year end anxiety.
Still----as I drove back home to good Old Wisconsin, I could not get Herman's words out of my head.
Thank goodness I am back home. Where it still is the "Twist and Shout" and not the "Shout and Twist." Where all the shoutin of grade B actors is not followed by a predictable "Twist."
Alleluia.
Dateline Normal: "Budgeting Time Again in Normal"--Or, "The FTE Con"----FICTION
Dateline Normal: "Budgeting Time Again in Normal"---the FTE Con----FICTION
(Ed.note; The original date of this post if October of 2006. One of my faithful readers has requested that I repost this in honor of the budget meetings that will begin shortly.)
Dateline Normal: Budgeting Time Again: or; moxie budgeting revealed- Fiction
(Ed. note. The following is fiction. Any resemblance to reality is purely by accident.)
My readers have been begging me to head out of town for some R&R and to stop writing about money matters, so I wheeled out the old Lincoln for one last trip up Hwy 10. The transmission has been slipping a bit so I felt it might be the last such long trip. After arriving late, I was lucky to get a room at the Spruce Goose Motel. I arose and met my old friend Herman, the country boy lawyer, at the local coffee shop, just adjacent to the historic bait shop with the colored stones.
Before I had even ordered, the waitress, Ginny, came over smiling with my "usual." And in the Blue Minnesota Vikings mug. Right away, I blurted out to Herman, "I have had enough of budgeting for awhile. How do you deal with all the FTE analysis up here in God's country."
Herman just burst out laughing.
"Shucks Wolfman," we don't do any of that FTE stuff up here in God's Country. It is forbidden by the natural law here.
I interrupted, "But...But...how can you present a budget that makes any sense so the elected officials can decide?"
Then Herman spoke boldly, " Just shut up and listen, Wolfman. Up here we have real moxie. Our fiscal year ends on 9-30 so for budget purposes we always propose to the alderman that we add a person on 9-29 of the first year, and quote for all the citizens to see the cost. For example, if we added an employee, we could say we are adding an employee for a cost of $230. The cost of $230 is of course the cost only for the last day of that fiscal year, but the real cost is $60,000 for the next year.
When the citizens see the minutes published in the paper showing the cost of $230 they think we are miracle workers. We are legends up here in God's Country.
"But don't you have to talk to citzens about FTE's," I asked.
"Heavens, no, Wolfman". Talking about that FTE stuff is strictly outlawed up here.
After all, remember the story about the good shepherd. Man, ya gotta treat the folks like sheep in order to be a great shepherd. That was exactly what the good Lord was talking about."
It sure is good to be back in good old Wisconsin. Where men are men and the numbers are straight and transparent...... and FTE increases are clearly discussed. And the shepherds lead more than weak sheep to pasture.
Alleluia.
(Ed.note; The original date of this post if October of 2006. One of my faithful readers has requested that I repost this in honor of the budget meetings that will begin shortly.)
Dateline Normal: Budgeting Time Again: or; moxie budgeting revealed- Fiction
(Ed. note. The following is fiction. Any resemblance to reality is purely by accident.)
My readers have been begging me to head out of town for some R&R and to stop writing about money matters, so I wheeled out the old Lincoln for one last trip up Hwy 10. The transmission has been slipping a bit so I felt it might be the last such long trip. After arriving late, I was lucky to get a room at the Spruce Goose Motel. I arose and met my old friend Herman, the country boy lawyer, at the local coffee shop, just adjacent to the historic bait shop with the colored stones.
Before I had even ordered, the waitress, Ginny, came over smiling with my "usual." And in the Blue Minnesota Vikings mug. Right away, I blurted out to Herman, "I have had enough of budgeting for awhile. How do you deal with all the FTE analysis up here in God's country."
Herman just burst out laughing.
"Shucks Wolfman," we don't do any of that FTE stuff up here in God's Country. It is forbidden by the natural law here.
I interrupted, "But...But...how can you present a budget that makes any sense so the elected officials can decide?"
Then Herman spoke boldly, " Just shut up and listen, Wolfman. Up here we have real moxie. Our fiscal year ends on 9-30 so for budget purposes we always propose to the alderman that we add a person on 9-29 of the first year, and quote for all the citizens to see the cost. For example, if we added an employee, we could say we are adding an employee for a cost of $230. The cost of $230 is of course the cost only for the last day of that fiscal year, but the real cost is $60,000 for the next year.
When the citizens see the minutes published in the paper showing the cost of $230 they think we are miracle workers. We are legends up here in God's Country.
"But don't you have to talk to citzens about FTE's," I asked.
"Heavens, no, Wolfman". Talking about that FTE stuff is strictly outlawed up here.
After all, remember the story about the good shepherd. Man, ya gotta treat the folks like sheep in order to be a great shepherd. That was exactly what the good Lord was talking about."
It sure is good to be back in good old Wisconsin. Where men are men and the numbers are straight and transparent...... and FTE increases are clearly discussed. And the shepherds lead more than weak sheep to pasture.
Alleluia.
Downtown--my favorite "walkable" neighborhood.; Or reflections on some things I do not understand--On bricks, On anchors
Recently I took a trip back to St. Paul, and gave my daughter the tour of my brother's newspaper offices of the "Monitor" and the "Messenger". Right on the outer door to the building in the Midway area, was the sign printed in bold lettering and black and white ------" GUNS NOT ALLOWED IN BUILDING"-----
Whenever I get mistyeyed about the big city, a little sign like that brings me back to earth. And I got to reflecting a bit on our downtown. There were the usual questions and then some I had no answer to. Maybe you, my readers have the answers.
The "walkable neighborhood" that is so fashionable today is dense housing, with some commercial downstairs, with some apartments or condos above. It is so in the rage. And folks might note, this is EXACTLY what the Economy Store features. It is thus the "anchor" of the "walkable neighborhood". We need not wander afar out to hither and yon to find land that some folks have a dream about-----we as a community have articulated a dream in TIF #5 to restore and more importantly, revitalize the downtown.
THUS---I am just totally mystified how someone can propose a "walkable neighborhood" outside of town that WILL NOT and SHOULD NOT have commercial in the lower portion, precisely because it would threaten all of the investment that this city has made in the TIF's 5,6,7. When we say "Walkable" we mean more than just "Walkable to the Bank"---
If you add up in your head the investments made downtown in 2005,2006,2007 make sure you include all the exterior restoration of the Farnsworth buildings, the UBT Bank and yes Grange Mall and the Chamber offices, and then add up the 2.5 million for the road with the paving bricks as well as the earlier project to replace the water and sewer on Madison street.
I would just guess that the total private and public investment exceeds 5 million dollars. Now consider the stack of bricks over by the old Coop station. The workers braved the heat last week to clean them. I salute them. When all the bricks are completed cleaning, the whole block will be filled.
However----here is the part of the story that I do not understnd----We did not get a grant for the $300,000 for the additional block to be done. Keep in mind that the bricks are paid for. Then we hear the decision that the last block will not be done. Seems tough minded enough. Except when you consider what the dream was.
The dream was for the Economy Store to be the anchor. I wrote a bit about this. "The anchor and the Boat." Anchors are just the beginning. They are not the story.
In the same breath that we are tough minded about cutting off the project, we hear proposals to reside the walls of Lake Leota canal. For a cool 400-500M. If you click on the video of Fred Juergens you can hear him say that "this is coming."
I have covered the downtown, and the Economy Store project because it is very important. I think in a 5 million dollar investment, we are oh so close to finishing the race strong----that additional block needs to be considered as the potential for attracting NEW owners of business to Evansville. To cut it off sends the signal that we care only about the present....and not the future.
I believe that the downtown can be the walkable neighborhood, and I wish we would not call every nice proposal to break the smart growth plan, "walkable." Those are just walkable to the bank. We need walkable for the citizens. We have the walkable neighborhood right downtown. Let's make it happen.
Whenever I get mistyeyed about the big city, a little sign like that brings me back to earth. And I got to reflecting a bit on our downtown. There were the usual questions and then some I had no answer to. Maybe you, my readers have the answers.
The "walkable neighborhood" that is so fashionable today is dense housing, with some commercial downstairs, with some apartments or condos above. It is so in the rage. And folks might note, this is EXACTLY what the Economy Store features. It is thus the "anchor" of the "walkable neighborhood". We need not wander afar out to hither and yon to find land that some folks have a dream about-----we as a community have articulated a dream in TIF #5 to restore and more importantly, revitalize the downtown.
THUS---I am just totally mystified how someone can propose a "walkable neighborhood" outside of town that WILL NOT and SHOULD NOT have commercial in the lower portion, precisely because it would threaten all of the investment that this city has made in the TIF's 5,6,7. When we say "Walkable" we mean more than just "Walkable to the Bank"---
If you add up in your head the investments made downtown in 2005,2006,2007 make sure you include all the exterior restoration of the Farnsworth buildings, the UBT Bank and yes Grange Mall and the Chamber offices, and then add up the 2.5 million for the road with the paving bricks as well as the earlier project to replace the water and sewer on Madison street.
I would just guess that the total private and public investment exceeds 5 million dollars. Now consider the stack of bricks over by the old Coop station. The workers braved the heat last week to clean them. I salute them. When all the bricks are completed cleaning, the whole block will be filled.
However----here is the part of the story that I do not understnd----We did not get a grant for the $300,000 for the additional block to be done. Keep in mind that the bricks are paid for. Then we hear the decision that the last block will not be done. Seems tough minded enough. Except when you consider what the dream was.
The dream was for the Economy Store to be the anchor. I wrote a bit about this. "The anchor and the Boat." Anchors are just the beginning. They are not the story.
In the same breath that we are tough minded about cutting off the project, we hear proposals to reside the walls of Lake Leota canal. For a cool 400-500M. If you click on the video of Fred Juergens you can hear him say that "this is coming."
I have covered the downtown, and the Economy Store project because it is very important. I think in a 5 million dollar investment, we are oh so close to finishing the race strong----that additional block needs to be considered as the potential for attracting NEW owners of business to Evansville. To cut it off sends the signal that we care only about the present....and not the future.
I believe that the downtown can be the walkable neighborhood, and I wish we would not call every nice proposal to break the smart growth plan, "walkable." Those are just walkable to the bank. We need walkable for the citizens. We have the walkable neighborhood right downtown. Let's make it happen.
Mailbag: Mr.Connors writes re TIF: "To be esteemed of men?"--Is desire for fame driving poor policy decision?
(Ed. note: This was a comment under the TIF video that I have posted for better visibility. "To be esteemed of men" was a phrase of Abraham Lincoln--it was his motivation during his early years, and best describes how he almost bankrupted Illinois in the Grand Canal scheme. He would do anything,..... to make the canal scheme happen. Only in the last year of office, did Lincoln arise to the greatness we now celebrate. This is of course my take on it.)
I do not know if John Morning asked for TIF assistance originally. But he has asked the city more recently, arguing that if D&D Development receives it, he should receive it to be fair.
John has had to recover his investment in street, sewer, water main, etc. through the sale price of his commercial lots. Why should D&D Development not be required to do the same?
Given how prized the location of D&D's new commercial lots will be after construction of the biodiesel plant (and the possible soy bean crushing plant), D&D should be able to ask a high enough price for their new commercial lots to recover their investment in infrastructure and make a tidy profit (especially since they paid very little for the land in the first place). If the city agrees to give them TIF assistance to repay their investment in the infrastructure for the new commercial lots, D&D will be able to recover their investment in the infrastructure twice, once through the sale of the lots and once through the gift of tax dollars from the city. If this comes to pass, their profit on the new commercial lots will be obscene. And this will be true even if the deal involves pay-as-you-go financing.
I hope Mason can talk enough sense into enough of the alderpersons to keep this from being approved. It appears there are some in the city government who are so determined to make this bloom during their term in office that they are willing to sell out the future of the city to make things happen now. When I was in charge of TIF-law enforcement in Minnesota, I saw many examples of cities' giving unnecessary TIF assistance to make development happen now rather than a few years from now, driven purely by the desire of elected officials to produce results while they were in office.
Bill Connors
Former Evansville City Administrator
I do not know if John Morning asked for TIF assistance originally. But he has asked the city more recently, arguing that if D&D Development receives it, he should receive it to be fair.
John has had to recover his investment in street, sewer, water main, etc. through the sale price of his commercial lots. Why should D&D Development not be required to do the same?
Given how prized the location of D&D's new commercial lots will be after construction of the biodiesel plant (and the possible soy bean crushing plant), D&D should be able to ask a high enough price for their new commercial lots to recover their investment in infrastructure and make a tidy profit (especially since they paid very little for the land in the first place). If the city agrees to give them TIF assistance to repay their investment in the infrastructure for the new commercial lots, D&D will be able to recover their investment in the infrastructure twice, once through the sale of the lots and once through the gift of tax dollars from the city. If this comes to pass, their profit on the new commercial lots will be obscene. And this will be true even if the deal involves pay-as-you-go financing.
I hope Mason can talk enough sense into enough of the alderpersons to keep this from being approved. It appears there are some in the city government who are so determined to make this bloom during their term in office that they are willing to sell out the future of the city to make things happen now. When I was in charge of TIF-law enforcement in Minnesota, I saw many examples of cities' giving unnecessary TIF assistance to make development happen now rather than a few years from now, driven purely by the desire of elected officials to produce results while they were in office.
Bill Connors
Former Evansville City Administrator
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Finance-7-8-2007-- TIF in Spotlight
D & D Development, who is developing the land out across from Piggly Wiggly, has requested consideration for additional TIF assistance for the commercial portion of their development. ----Mason Braunschweig, Tom Cothard, Diane Roberts, Adm. Dan Wietecha, Eric Jepperson and Mayor Sandy Decker discuss the issue.
Download File
Download File
TIF: Part III 7-8-2007
Third of three videos re D&D request for TIF assistance for commercial portion of new development on east side.
Download File
Download File
Monday, July 09, 2007
Lake Leota: Ald Fred Juergens Presents Update--"It's Crunch Time"--PT1
(Ed.note: Written article pending to supplement video. Stay tuned.)
Finance Committee--7-8-2007: Alderman Fred Juergens presents status of Lake Leota--"It's Crunch Time"--- Recommends binding referendum for the voters. First of three videos
Download File
Finance Committee--7-8-2007: Alderman Fred Juergens presents status of Lake Leota--"It's Crunch Time"--- Recommends binding referendum for the voters. First of three videos
Download File
Lake Leota Update: Fred Juergens Pt 2
Second part of presentation of Fred Juergens on Lake Leota 7-8-2007 Finance Committee Meeting
Download File
Download File
Lake Leota Pt 3
Third of Three video presentation by Ald. Fred Juergens re referendum re Lake Leota etc.
Download File
Download File
Nostalgia: Dateline Normal: "The Moot Squad"--or "The Mute Squad"--FICTION
(Ed.note; In memory of the Angus House Fire some folks have requested that I republish this famous post.)
On fires, On investigations, On mute or "moot" squads....and much, much, more.
On fires, On investigations, On mute or "moot" squads....and much, much, more.
Nostalgia: Historical Preservation: Mayoral Debate: Mar 29, 2006----
Saturday, July 29, 2006
History: Mayoral Debate Transcript: Evansville Review March 29, 2006; Mayoral Candidate Decker Speaks:
(Ed. note. I have published the public transcript as reported in the Evansville Review on March 29, 2006, page 19. The Observer is grateful for the transcript and audio that was such an effort by Tammy Pomplun for this debate.)
"Question 3: What is your position on rate of residential development and how do you propose to maintain it?"
Sandy Decker; My understanding was that the number was 35 new homes for each of the two main developers for the city. There have been questions about if that is the absolute numbers each year, whether it can be averaged so that one year you do three times 35 and the next two years not do any. I think that has a very different impact on our school system and the school did come before plan commission a couple of months ago and indicate that our elementary school is at 90 percent capacity now. We need to carefully monitor and channel the rate of residential growth so that our school can keep up. But a new school would just send our property taxes through the roof, so we've got to keep a close eye on residential growth, keep it monitored, keep it even. We do need it. It positively impacts the funding formula for the school. It's a fine line that we walk and it has to be monitored carefully. Thank You. "
History: Mayoral Debate Transcript: Evansville Review March 29, 2006; Mayoral Candidate Decker Speaks:
(Ed. note. I have published the public transcript as reported in the Evansville Review on March 29, 2006, page 19. The Observer is grateful for the transcript and audio that was such an effort by Tammy Pomplun for this debate.)
"Question 3: What is your position on rate of residential development and how do you propose to maintain it?"
Sandy Decker; My understanding was that the number was 35 new homes for each of the two main developers for the city. There have been questions about if that is the absolute numbers each year, whether it can be averaged so that one year you do three times 35 and the next two years not do any. I think that has a very different impact on our school system and the school did come before plan commission a couple of months ago and indicate that our elementary school is at 90 percent capacity now. We need to carefully monitor and channel the rate of residential growth so that our school can keep up. But a new school would just send our property taxes through the roof, so we've got to keep a close eye on residential growth, keep it monitored, keep it even. We do need it. It positively impacts the funding formula for the school. It's a fine line that we walk and it has to be monitored carefully. Thank You. "
Nostalgia: February 2006: Mason Asks the Question
(Ed.note: I have reposted this item from yesteryear, since budget season is upon us again----and the answer that Karen gave was the consensus answer two years ago, but it raises questions of whether the lack of commerical and industrial growth will result in rising property taxes which will further dampen housing demand---not an attractive possiblity. Also there are spending dreams on the table---The spending will the on the table tonight at Finance Committee at City Hall at 6:00PM as the issue of Lake Leota financing takes center stage.)
Mayoral Forum: Bauer Haus: Mason Braunschweig asks: What would you do to reduce Taxes?
Last night at the Bauer Haus was a mayoral forum that consisted of two parts---first a 10 minute presentation by each candidate, and then a short question and answer period where each question asked was answered by each candidate.
The first question was asked by Mason Braunschweig, 590 W. Main, an aldermanic candidate in the April election. He asked " What would you do as Mayor to reduce taxes?"
There was a moment of silence since it may have been a long time since the prospects of reducing actual spending has been in view. Both Sandy Decker and Mike Anderson responded that they felt the city budget was in order and so no area that could sustain big cuts. Karen Aikman, the current Finance Chair, responded that yes Evansville taxes were high, but the thing to concentrate on was developing more commerical and industrial tax base which might provide some relief to homeowners. The key was not to concentrate on absolute cuts but on having the homeowner tax burden shrink relative to the total taxes paid.
If any candidate wants to add to this description, feel free to do so.
The comment line is open.
Mayoral Forum: Bauer Haus: Mason Braunschweig asks: What would you do to reduce Taxes?
Last night at the Bauer Haus was a mayoral forum that consisted of two parts---first a 10 minute presentation by each candidate, and then a short question and answer period where each question asked was answered by each candidate.
The first question was asked by Mason Braunschweig, 590 W. Main, an aldermanic candidate in the April election. He asked " What would you do as Mayor to reduce taxes?"
There was a moment of silence since it may have been a long time since the prospects of reducing actual spending has been in view. Both Sandy Decker and Mike Anderson responded that they felt the city budget was in order and so no area that could sustain big cuts. Karen Aikman, the current Finance Chair, responded that yes Evansville taxes were high, but the thing to concentrate on was developing more commerical and industrial tax base which might provide some relief to homeowners. The key was not to concentrate on absolute cuts but on having the homeowner tax burden shrink relative to the total taxes paid.
If any candidate wants to add to this description, feel free to do so.
The comment line is open.
Nostalgia: February 2006---Candidate Sandy Decker reflects on limits to frequent Smart Growth Amendments--?
(Ed. note: What a difference a day makes? Should Evansville follow Oregon and just have a moratorium?
Friday, February 10, 2006
Mayoral Forum: Bauer Haus: Decker raises question of Smart Growth Plan frequency of Revision
It was just a short aside in the discussion on the future of Evansville and its Smart Growth Plan, but to The Observer, it was a matter worthy of further discussion.
In her remarks about the Smart Growth Plan, Sandy Decker referred to the long process of creating it, and said that there should be limits to quick revisions that circumvented the type of deliberative process that created it.
The Observer notes on the future agenda of the City meetings that they will consider amending the Smart Growth Plan prior to the annual target that was scheduled. Why? Just because it became commercially attractive to change some land from R1 to Commercial on Union Street. Why was not this a reasonably forseeable event when the Smart Growth Plan was designed last June?
Should revisions be a)weekly b)monthly c) yearly or d) any time one sees fit.
The deeper issue is whether a person could simply give 24 hours notice, modify an agenda and with little public input get a change in the smart growth plan that did not allow the public adequate time to get involved and express their view. This is no small matter. The essential core of Smart Growth is that the public has a right to participate in the decision, and quick modification of the plan that avoids public scrutiny is contrary to the intent of the law.
So---it was just a few words by Sandy Decker at the Bauer Haus. However, it might deserve further discussion.
This is your city. This is your election. What do you think about this issue? You make the call.
Posted by Evansville Observer at 9:28 AM
1 comments:
billconnors said...
The state Smart Growth law requires that any amendment to the Smart Growth Plan be adopted by the same process that was used to adopt the plan. On Feb. 14, the Common Council will hold a public hearing on an ordinance that would modify the future land use maps in the plan. The city published notice of the public hearing at least 30 days before the public hearing (we actually published it twice, but only one publication was required). There was a first reading of this ordinance on Jan. 10, and the proposed ordinance was subsequently published. Before an ordinance could be introduced to amend the plan, there needed to be a recommendation from the Plan Commission to amend the plan. On Jan. 3, the Plan Commission adopted a resolution recommending that the Council amend the plan. So the public need not worry about someone sneaking through unnoticed amendments to the plan.
The Observer raises the issue of why the city did not realize the parcels that are proposed to be changed from residential to commercial were not marked as commercial in the first place. The consensus of those of us who were closely involved in the Smart Growth planning process is this was an oversight on our parts. The consultant prepared the first drafts of the future land use maps, and it was our job to review them in great detail and make changes before the plan was adopted. None of us remembers looking at or discussing this particular area of the map.
The plan says the Plan Commission should review the plan and consider recommending amendments to the plan at least once per year. Those involved in the Smart Growth planning process wanted to make sure everyone understood now and years from now that the plan is meant to be a living, breathing, changing document. The planning process should never stop. However, we do want to get away from the practice of making plan amendments in response to particular development proposals.
Bill Connors
Evansville City Administrator
Friday, February 10, 2006
Mayoral Forum: Bauer Haus: Decker raises question of Smart Growth Plan frequency of Revision
It was just a short aside in the discussion on the future of Evansville and its Smart Growth Plan, but to The Observer, it was a matter worthy of further discussion.
In her remarks about the Smart Growth Plan, Sandy Decker referred to the long process of creating it, and said that there should be limits to quick revisions that circumvented the type of deliberative process that created it.
The Observer notes on the future agenda of the City meetings that they will consider amending the Smart Growth Plan prior to the annual target that was scheduled. Why? Just because it became commercially attractive to change some land from R1 to Commercial on Union Street. Why was not this a reasonably forseeable event when the Smart Growth Plan was designed last June?
Should revisions be a)weekly b)monthly c) yearly or d) any time one sees fit.
The deeper issue is whether a person could simply give 24 hours notice, modify an agenda and with little public input get a change in the smart growth plan that did not allow the public adequate time to get involved and express their view. This is no small matter. The essential core of Smart Growth is that the public has a right to participate in the decision, and quick modification of the plan that avoids public scrutiny is contrary to the intent of the law.
So---it was just a few words by Sandy Decker at the Bauer Haus. However, it might deserve further discussion.
This is your city. This is your election. What do you think about this issue? You make the call.
Posted by Evansville Observer at 9:28 AM
1 comments:
billconnors said...
The state Smart Growth law requires that any amendment to the Smart Growth Plan be adopted by the same process that was used to adopt the plan. On Feb. 14, the Common Council will hold a public hearing on an ordinance that would modify the future land use maps in the plan. The city published notice of the public hearing at least 30 days before the public hearing (we actually published it twice, but only one publication was required). There was a first reading of this ordinance on Jan. 10, and the proposed ordinance was subsequently published. Before an ordinance could be introduced to amend the plan, there needed to be a recommendation from the Plan Commission to amend the plan. On Jan. 3, the Plan Commission adopted a resolution recommending that the Council amend the plan. So the public need not worry about someone sneaking through unnoticed amendments to the plan.
The Observer raises the issue of why the city did not realize the parcels that are proposed to be changed from residential to commercial were not marked as commercial in the first place. The consensus of those of us who were closely involved in the Smart Growth planning process is this was an oversight on our parts. The consultant prepared the first drafts of the future land use maps, and it was our job to review them in great detail and make changes before the plan was adopted. None of us remembers looking at or discussing this particular area of the map.
The plan says the Plan Commission should review the plan and consider recommending amendments to the plan at least once per year. Those involved in the Smart Growth planning process wanted to make sure everyone understood now and years from now that the plan is meant to be a living, breathing, changing document. The planning process should never stop. However, we do want to get away from the practice of making plan amendments in response to particular development proposals.
Bill Connors
Evansville City Administrator
Public Benefits Committee---Special Meeting--July 16--7:30AM Public Invited
Public Benefits Committee
Special Meeting, July 16, 7:30 to 9:30 a.m., Village Square Restaurant
This working meeting will include members of the Public Benefits Committee and the Evansville Initiative, a project of Evansville Community Partnership dedicated to leading Evansville into the future by focusing on energy. INTERESTED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE STRONGLY URGED TO ATTEND. All attending will participate in the interest clusters. (Help the restaurant. Save your breakfast appetite).
Call to order.
Introductions of participants, with statement of interests.
Descriptions of WPPI programs for energy conservation, alternative energy, low-income users, and other innovations. Alicia VandenOever, WPPI.
Break into interest clusters. Draft ideas suitable for Evansville based upon WPPI programs.
Report to large group.
Next steps. Intersection of ideas and elements to include in 3-year plan.
Set next PBC meeting date.
Adjourn.
Special Meeting, July 16, 7:30 to 9:30 a.m., Village Square Restaurant
This working meeting will include members of the Public Benefits Committee and the Evansville Initiative, a project of Evansville Community Partnership dedicated to leading Evansville into the future by focusing on energy. INTERESTED MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE STRONGLY URGED TO ATTEND. All attending will participate in the interest clusters. (Help the restaurant. Save your breakfast appetite).
Call to order.
Introductions of participants, with statement of interests.
Descriptions of WPPI programs for energy conservation, alternative energy, low-income users, and other innovations. Alicia VandenOever, WPPI.
Break into interest clusters. Draft ideas suitable for Evansville based upon WPPI programs.
Report to large group.
Next steps. Intersection of ideas and elements to include in 3-year plan.
Set next PBC meeting date.
Adjourn.
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Travelogue: "RM" Writes: Ireland Views
Connemara Natl Park
Potato Famine Sculpture
Dublin Street Musicians
(Ed. Note; Double click on pictures for largest view)
Statue of Oscar Wilde
Kylemore Abbey
Kylemore NeoGothic
We enjoyed our trip to Ireland, and it was as interesting as my trip
to
> Iceland. And while it was not as cold, it was cool and wet with
daytime
> temperatures in the 15-18º C range.
>
> Dublin, the capitol city, boasts of having 1,000 pubs; we visited a
few.
> My pictures includes as few pictures from Dublin. Some pictures show
the
> features of the Georgian Architecture. I took pictures of some doors
of
> offices and homes that are near Merrion Square. Merrion Square was
the
> home neighborhood of Oscar Wilde.
>
> On the west coast of Ireland near Galway is the largest of the three
Aran
> Islands, Inis Mor. It is rich in Celtic history. It is only 16 square
> miles (41.44 square kilometers). It is about 9 miles (14.4 km) long
and 2
> miles (3.2 km) wide. Its population is about 800 in the summer time.
>
> The pre-historic Dun Aonghus Fort is on the west coast of Inis Mor.
It was
> built on the cliffs around 2000 B.C. It consists of three dry-stone
> ramparts and the remains of a fourth. The fourth is the outermost at
it
> encloses an area of 11 acres. Outside the second rampart, there is a
> 30-foot ring of upright stones. These stones form a defensive band of
> "chevaux de fries. Visitors traditionally crawl out to the edge of
the
> 800-foot (243-meter) cliff.
>
> To the north of Galway is the Connemara National Park and the nearby
> Kylemore Abbey & Gardens. The Abbey is the Monastic home of the
> Benedictine Order of Nuns in Ireland. The abbey was built in 1866 as
a
> castle by Mitchell Henry. He built it for his his bride.
Unfortunately,
> she died tragically soon after the castle construction was completed.
>
> It has been an Abbey since 1921. The nuns also operate a secondary
> education boarding school for girls (about 60) within the abbey. On
the
> abbey grounds there is miniature Gothic Cathedral and a six-acre
Victorian
> Walled Garden.
>
> There was not enough time to visit the Clifts of Mohr, which is a
popular
> tourist destination.
>
> I am glad too that I again read James Joyce’s the Dubliners and
Ulysses
> before traveling to Ireland. It really helped to set the historical
Irish
> social and cultural scene. I also read a short collection of Oscar
Wilde’s
> quotes.
>
Finance and Labor meets Monday night: Lake Leota Financing on agenda
(Ed. note: the following is part of the agenda. For the full agenda, see the agenda blog:)
New Business
Motion to recommend to Common Council approval of addendum to contract with Associated Appraisal Consultants, Inc. regarding postage expenses.
Fred Juergens, Park Board Chair: discussion on methods for financing future Lake Leota dredging project.
Discussion and possible motion on D&D Proposal regarding use of TIF in a mixed-use district.
Discussion and possible motion regarding clarification of Council pay for special committee meetings.
Discussion on opening contract negotiations with the Evansville Professional Police Association and the Evansville Supervisory Association.
Performance evaluation of City Administrator (6 month).
Motion to adjourn
Thomas Cothard, Chair
New Business
Motion to recommend to Common Council approval of addendum to contract with Associated Appraisal Consultants, Inc. regarding postage expenses.
Fred Juergens, Park Board Chair: discussion on methods for financing future Lake Leota dredging project.
Discussion and possible motion on D&D Proposal regarding use of TIF in a mixed-use district.
Discussion and possible motion regarding clarification of Council pay for special committee meetings.
Discussion on opening contract negotiations with the Evansville Professional Police Association and the Evansville Supervisory Association.
Performance evaluation of City Administrator (6 month).
Motion to adjourn
Thomas Cothard, Chair
Dateline St. Paul: Bro writes: "Local News" moves to center stage
(Ed. note: In the midst of the downsizing of the Mpls Star, local news was touted as what the Star was going to cover. Here is the recent column of my brother Denis in the "Monitor" that covers this. )
Friday, July 6, 2007
Mailbag: Denis Woulfe of the MONITOR writes: On "Local" News. The Mantra. The Real World
Watching media accounts of the
cutbacks at the Star Tribune has led
me to believe that I must preside
over what has become some kind of
“National Treasure” for media outlets
trying to make a living selling
newspapers. New Star Tribune Editor
Nancy Barnes was interviewed
by KSTP-TV the other night telling
readers that the Tribune's focus will
be redirected to "exclusive local coverage."
Exclusive, meaning that the stories found in the Tribune
will be unique to the Tribune. Likewise, last week the
new Pioneer Press publisher was named and he once again
touted the PP’s commitment to local coverage. There’s a
novel concept, I thought to myself with a wry smile.
At the Monitor, for the past 30 years we have carved out
a niche that the big papers couldn't afford to cover. Just
look at last month’s issue which featured the Arlington
High School students who were honored by the Mayor for
growing organically grown vegetables, the Jennings High
School students who have been working to raise funds for
Hamline Park Playground, and the simple, but nonetheless
vital listings of story times at the Hamline Midway Library.
Don't get me wrong: We've also covered the high-profile,
controversial stories like light rail coming to University
Avenue, the proposed garbage burner at Rock-Tenn, and the
proposal to place Snelling Avenue in a tunnel under University
Avenue. And we’ve never shied away from coverage just
because it might be controversial. In fact, one regular advertiser
even withdrew his ad last week due to our coverage of
the City’s fight with him over his
license. It’s not a shock—news
gatherers don’t always curry favor
by reporting the facts of a
story. Sometimes they make enemies.
It just goes with the territory.
But our stock in trade has
always been the local news that
the big papers didn’t think was
important enough to cover.
We've been following it, you might say, before it became the
mantra of the daily papers. And our readers continue to
show their appreciation on a monthly basis. Just last week, I
heard from one of the businesses on Rice Street that started
receiving the Monitor with the April issue. The owner said
his Monitor supply was running short only days after the
paper was delivered to his business. So while the big papers
are struggling to maintain circulation, our readership just
spiked. Thank goodness for local coverage! And thanks to
all of you, for reading the Monitor.
From the Editor’s Desk
By DENIS WOULFE
Scooping the daily papers for over 30 years
Friday, July 6, 2007
Mailbag: Denis Woulfe of the MONITOR writes: On "Local" News. The Mantra. The Real World
Watching media accounts of the
cutbacks at the Star Tribune has led
me to believe that I must preside
over what has become some kind of
“National Treasure” for media outlets
trying to make a living selling
newspapers. New Star Tribune Editor
Nancy Barnes was interviewed
by KSTP-TV the other night telling
readers that the Tribune's focus will
be redirected to "exclusive local coverage."
Exclusive, meaning that the stories found in the Tribune
will be unique to the Tribune. Likewise, last week the
new Pioneer Press publisher was named and he once again
touted the PP’s commitment to local coverage. There’s a
novel concept, I thought to myself with a wry smile.
At the Monitor, for the past 30 years we have carved out
a niche that the big papers couldn't afford to cover. Just
look at last month’s issue which featured the Arlington
High School students who were honored by the Mayor for
growing organically grown vegetables, the Jennings High
School students who have been working to raise funds for
Hamline Park Playground, and the simple, but nonetheless
vital listings of story times at the Hamline Midway Library.
Don't get me wrong: We've also covered the high-profile,
controversial stories like light rail coming to University
Avenue, the proposed garbage burner at Rock-Tenn, and the
proposal to place Snelling Avenue in a tunnel under University
Avenue. And we’ve never shied away from coverage just
because it might be controversial. In fact, one regular advertiser
even withdrew his ad last week due to our coverage of
the City’s fight with him over his
license. It’s not a shock—news
gatherers don’t always curry favor
by reporting the facts of a
story. Sometimes they make enemies.
It just goes with the territory.
But our stock in trade has
always been the local news that
the big papers didn’t think was
important enough to cover.
We've been following it, you might say, before it became the
mantra of the daily papers. And our readers continue to
show their appreciation on a monthly basis. Just last week, I
heard from one of the businesses on Rice Street that started
receiving the Monitor with the April issue. The owner said
his Monitor supply was running short only days after the
paper was delivered to his business. So while the big papers
are struggling to maintain circulation, our readership just
spiked. Thank goodness for local coverage! And thanks to
all of you, for reading the Monitor.
From the Editor’s Desk
By DENIS WOULFE
Scooping the daily papers for over 30 years
Friday, July 06, 2007
Minutes: Plan Commission: Pt IV; July 2, 2007
Future Transportation Map (application 2007-19). Hammann said the Public Works Committee had approved the changes at its April meeting. The Commission noted that the inset showing future by-pass routes needs to be included on the map. Hammann made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to approve Plan Commission Resolution 2007-4, Recommending to the Common Council the Adoption of a New Future Transportation Map for the City’s Smart Growth Comprehensive Plan. Motion approved unanimously.
Preliminary Development Presentations. Schwecke indicated there were no preliminary presentations.
Pending Legislative Proposals.
Unified Land Development Code. Schwecke indicated that a phasing schedule is in the packet according to comments from the Commission at its June 11 meeting.
Fences. Schwecke noted that the Common Council will have its first reading of the ordinance on July 10.
Accessible Housing. Schwecke noted that the Common Council will have its first reading of the ordinance on July 10.
Traditional Neighborhood Developments. Schwecke noted that the Common Council will have its first reading of the ordinance on July 10.
Residential Design Standards. Schwecke said this is temporarily on hold since it has been listed as a second phase of the unified land development code.
Residential Use Standards. Schwecke said this is temporarily on hold since it has been listed as a second phase of the unified land development code.
Rock County Smart Growth Plan. Decker indicated that Rock County has an advisory committee working on their Smart Growth Plan. They have finished with agriculture element and are currently finishing with the issues & opportunities and the transportation elements. The county expects to complete their plan in 2010. The Commission agreed it should stay informed of the county’s project as it progresses.
Flood Insurance/Community Rating System. Schwecke noted that the city could undertake some relatively simple steps to improve the city’s rating in the National Flood Insurance Program. The improved rating would have a lower the insurance premiums for local policy holders. It was agreed that Baker Manufacturing should be contacted as the single largest potential beneficiary.
Site Plan Amendments. Schwecke stated there had been no administrative review of site plan amendments.
Redevelopment Authority. Wietecha had nothing additional to report.
Historic Preservation Commission.
Standpipe. Decker said the Wisconsin Historic Preservation Review Board would consider recommending the standpipe for listing on the Wisconsin and National Registers of Historic Places.
Traditional Neighborhood Development Committee. Schwecke noted that the meeting had been rescheduled for Thursday, July 5, at 6:00.
City Planner’s Report.
Council Actions. The Council tabled action on the Propst Land Division (application 2007-4).
Code Enforcement. A letter has been sent to Tom and Jan Davis giving thirty days to comply with landscaping requirements.
Adjournment. On a motion by Braunschweig, seconded by Brooks, the meeting adjourned at 9:22 pm.
Preliminary Development Presentations. Schwecke indicated there were no preliminary presentations.
Pending Legislative Proposals.
Unified Land Development Code. Schwecke indicated that a phasing schedule is in the packet according to comments from the Commission at its June 11 meeting.
Fences. Schwecke noted that the Common Council will have its first reading of the ordinance on July 10.
Accessible Housing. Schwecke noted that the Common Council will have its first reading of the ordinance on July 10.
Traditional Neighborhood Developments. Schwecke noted that the Common Council will have its first reading of the ordinance on July 10.
Residential Design Standards. Schwecke said this is temporarily on hold since it has been listed as a second phase of the unified land development code.
Residential Use Standards. Schwecke said this is temporarily on hold since it has been listed as a second phase of the unified land development code.
Rock County Smart Growth Plan. Decker indicated that Rock County has an advisory committee working on their Smart Growth Plan. They have finished with agriculture element and are currently finishing with the issues & opportunities and the transportation elements. The county expects to complete their plan in 2010. The Commission agreed it should stay informed of the county’s project as it progresses.
Flood Insurance/Community Rating System. Schwecke noted that the city could undertake some relatively simple steps to improve the city’s rating in the National Flood Insurance Program. The improved rating would have a lower the insurance premiums for local policy holders. It was agreed that Baker Manufacturing should be contacted as the single largest potential beneficiary.
Site Plan Amendments. Schwecke stated there had been no administrative review of site plan amendments.
Redevelopment Authority. Wietecha had nothing additional to report.
Historic Preservation Commission.
Standpipe. Decker said the Wisconsin Historic Preservation Review Board would consider recommending the standpipe for listing on the Wisconsin and National Registers of Historic Places.
Traditional Neighborhood Development Committee. Schwecke noted that the meeting had been rescheduled for Thursday, July 5, at 6:00.
City Planner’s Report.
Council Actions. The Council tabled action on the Propst Land Division (application 2007-4).
Code Enforcement. A letter has been sent to Tom and Jan Davis giving thirty days to comply with landscaping requirements.
Adjournment. On a motion by Braunschweig, seconded by Brooks, the meeting adjourned at 9:22 pm.
Minutes: Plan Commission Pt III; Every Application for Change in Status; 7-2-2007
Every Comprehensive Plan Amendment #1 (application 2007-13). Decklin Every noted that this application is for the property in the Town of Union; however, the discussion included comments relative to both applications. Every said that his family’s plans to develop the property were not a new idea and showed a 1965 preliminary plat. Schwecke indicated that the request was to accelerate the designation from the Future Land Use map to the Intermediate Land Use map. He also noted that the topography of the site was different from the flat fields that have typically been developed in Evansville; this would be conducive to more housing variety by catering to a more upscale home.
Schwecke reviewed a memo about historical and anticipated growth in Evansville. He concluded that allowing development on the Every property would be within the growth rates needed for the 7000 population in 2025 which the Smart Growth Plan had identified. In terms of orderly development with reasonable availability of utilities, he recommended that if the Commission were to approve the amendment for the in-city applications then it should also approve the southern (but not the northern) portion of the in-town application. He noted that changing the land use designation on the map would not obligate the city to annex the property.
The Commission said this application would encourage faster growth and the Smart Growth Plan had a definite desire to regulate to growth rate. It was noted that there are already four large subdivision approved, providing many opportunities for someone wanting to build a house. The Commission also noted that the Smart Growth Plan was only two years old and any amendments should be fairly few or minor on such a recent plan.
It was noted that the property (actually the adjoining in-city parcel) had been annexed into the city 40 years ago with a plan for it to develop; it preceded the Smart Growth Plan and could be considered inadvertently overlooked during the Smart Growth process. The Everies indicated that they had been absent during the Smart Growth process because of significant health issues in the family. The Commission noted that the walkable neighborhood designation does not require a commercial anchor; it could have some other public activity as its focus. It was noted that any development is going to have some impact on the school, local services, and tax levies; however, the Smart Growth Plan identified a growth rate equal to 69 housing units per year.
At 7:55 the Commission took a five minute recess. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to approve Plan Commission Resolution 2007-1, Recommending to the Common Council the Amendment of the City’s Smart Growth Comprehensive Plan by Changing the Land Use Designation of the Subject Property on the Interim Future Land Use Map from Agriculture/Undeveloped to Walkable Neighborhood. On a roll call vote, motion was defeated 2-5. Vrstal and Roberts voted for; Braunschweig, Decker, Brooks, Skinner, and Hammann voted against.
Every Comprehensive Plan Amendment #2 (application 2007-14). This application is the in-city parcel and was discussed throughout the deliberations on the other Every application. The Commission said that a development agreement could be used to phase the development similar to with the Larson Acres subdivision. The Commission noted that this land predated the Smart Growth Plan with its preliminary map and that the property is within the city.
Decker commented that the 27% growth identified in the Smart Growth Plan and some 700 lots available for development is not a no-growth attitude. The Smart Growth Plan identified continuing growth at its existing rate, with controls to keep it from accelerating.
Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Hammann, to approve Plan Commission Resolution 2007-2, Recommending to the Common Council the Amendment of the City’s Smart Growth Comprehensive Plan by Changing the Land Use Designation of the Subject Property on the Interim Future Land Use Map from Agriculture/Undeveloped to Walkable Neighborhood. Hammann made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to amend the motion by adding “Whereas, the City has the option of negotiating a development agreement to phase in development of the property over time,” to Plan Commission Resolution 2007-2. Amendment approved 5-2. On a roll call vote, motion, as amended, approved unanimously.
Schwecke reviewed a memo about historical and anticipated growth in Evansville. He concluded that allowing development on the Every property would be within the growth rates needed for the 7000 population in 2025 which the Smart Growth Plan had identified. In terms of orderly development with reasonable availability of utilities, he recommended that if the Commission were to approve the amendment for the in-city applications then it should also approve the southern (but not the northern) portion of the in-town application. He noted that changing the land use designation on the map would not obligate the city to annex the property.
The Commission said this application would encourage faster growth and the Smart Growth Plan had a definite desire to regulate to growth rate. It was noted that there are already four large subdivision approved, providing many opportunities for someone wanting to build a house. The Commission also noted that the Smart Growth Plan was only two years old and any amendments should be fairly few or minor on such a recent plan.
It was noted that the property (actually the adjoining in-city parcel) had been annexed into the city 40 years ago with a plan for it to develop; it preceded the Smart Growth Plan and could be considered inadvertently overlooked during the Smart Growth process. The Everies indicated that they had been absent during the Smart Growth process because of significant health issues in the family. The Commission noted that the walkable neighborhood designation does not require a commercial anchor; it could have some other public activity as its focus. It was noted that any development is going to have some impact on the school, local services, and tax levies; however, the Smart Growth Plan identified a growth rate equal to 69 housing units per year.
At 7:55 the Commission took a five minute recess. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to approve Plan Commission Resolution 2007-1, Recommending to the Common Council the Amendment of the City’s Smart Growth Comprehensive Plan by Changing the Land Use Designation of the Subject Property on the Interim Future Land Use Map from Agriculture/Undeveloped to Walkable Neighborhood. On a roll call vote, motion was defeated 2-5. Vrstal and Roberts voted for; Braunschweig, Decker, Brooks, Skinner, and Hammann voted against.
Every Comprehensive Plan Amendment #2 (application 2007-14). This application is the in-city parcel and was discussed throughout the deliberations on the other Every application. The Commission said that a development agreement could be used to phase the development similar to with the Larson Acres subdivision. The Commission noted that this land predated the Smart Growth Plan with its preliminary map and that the property is within the city.
Decker commented that the 27% growth identified in the Smart Growth Plan and some 700 lots available for development is not a no-growth attitude. The Smart Growth Plan identified continuing growth at its existing rate, with controls to keep it from accelerating.
Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Hammann, to approve Plan Commission Resolution 2007-2, Recommending to the Common Council the Amendment of the City’s Smart Growth Comprehensive Plan by Changing the Land Use Designation of the Subject Property on the Interim Future Land Use Map from Agriculture/Undeveloped to Walkable Neighborhood. Hammann made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to amend the motion by adding “Whereas, the City has the option of negotiating a development agreement to phase in development of the property over time,” to Plan Commission Resolution 2007-2. Amendment approved 5-2. On a roll call vote, motion, as amended, approved unanimously.
Minutes: Plan Commission: July 2, 2007; Meridith Tavern Conditional Use Application for Economy Store Location
Meredith Tavern CUP (application 2007-17). Decker stepped back up to her position on the Commission. Julie Meredith indicated that her earlier plans for a tavern on South Union turned out not financial feasible; she is now applying for a similar no-smoking tavern in the renovated Eager Building. It is the same easy-listening, relaxing, evening-hours concept as before.
Schwecke noted that it is a mixed-use building with apartments on the second floor. There are already several bars in the downtown vicinity. If approved, the conditional use permit (CUP) would still require a modest site plan review. Any future expansion of the business would require a new CUP. The CUP cannot limit the hours of operation, and the business may change its hours in the future. And he recommended approval of the application.
The Commission noted that any noise concerns from live music could be controlled by the landlord through the lease. The Commission said that any secondary effects of a restaurant would be lesser than with a tavern, so any future food service would be acceptable in the CUP. It was noted that because the business partnership had changed; Meredith would need to reapply for a liquor license.
Decker opened the public hearing at 6:53. Public comments generally in favor of the application included:
The renovated Eager Building will be a great asset to the downtown.
Customers can find on-street or public parking like everyone else.
Live entertainment does not necessarily mean a loud band; the atmosphere would still be conducive to conversation in the bar.
There is a mezzanine level between the main floor and the upstairs apartments.
The landlord would have restrictions on noise to protect the privacy and peaceful enjoyment of the apartments and other tenants.
Public comments generally against the application included:
Parking in that block is already limited.
A neighboring bar did not want competition.
The city and state have money invested in the restoration of the Eager Building and need to make sure apartment residents are protected.
The Commission reviewed the public comments and noted that it had to consider the application as a tavern since hours of operation and intensity of live music could change in the future. In reviewing the staff report, the Commission noted it is consistent with the zoning code, and there are already several bars in the vicinity. The Commission was confident the landlord would limit noise and similar impacts on the apartments and other tenants. Meredith repeated that it would be a small establishment with a relaxing atmosphere.
Roberts made a motion, seconded by Braunschweig, to act on the application (not defer to a later date). On a roll call vote, motion approved unanimously. Roberts made a motion, seconded by Skinner, to approve the application based on the findings as contained in the staff report and the conclusion that the public benefits of the proposed use outweigh any and all potential adverse impacts, if any. Motion approved unanimously.
Schwecke noted that it is a mixed-use building with apartments on the second floor. There are already several bars in the downtown vicinity. If approved, the conditional use permit (CUP) would still require a modest site plan review. Any future expansion of the business would require a new CUP. The CUP cannot limit the hours of operation, and the business may change its hours in the future. And he recommended approval of the application.
The Commission noted that any noise concerns from live music could be controlled by the landlord through the lease. The Commission said that any secondary effects of a restaurant would be lesser than with a tavern, so any future food service would be acceptable in the CUP. It was noted that because the business partnership had changed; Meredith would need to reapply for a liquor license.
Decker opened the public hearing at 6:53. Public comments generally in favor of the application included:
The renovated Eager Building will be a great asset to the downtown.
Customers can find on-street or public parking like everyone else.
Live entertainment does not necessarily mean a loud band; the atmosphere would still be conducive to conversation in the bar.
There is a mezzanine level between the main floor and the upstairs apartments.
The landlord would have restrictions on noise to protect the privacy and peaceful enjoyment of the apartments and other tenants.
Public comments generally against the application included:
Parking in that block is already limited.
A neighboring bar did not want competition.
The city and state have money invested in the restoration of the Eager Building and need to make sure apartment residents are protected.
The Commission reviewed the public comments and noted that it had to consider the application as a tavern since hours of operation and intensity of live music could change in the future. In reviewing the staff report, the Commission noted it is consistent with the zoning code, and there are already several bars in the vicinity. The Commission was confident the landlord would limit noise and similar impacts on the apartments and other tenants. Meredith repeated that it would be a small establishment with a relaxing atmosphere.
Roberts made a motion, seconded by Braunschweig, to act on the application (not defer to a later date). On a roll call vote, motion approved unanimously. Roberts made a motion, seconded by Skinner, to approve the application based on the findings as contained in the staff report and the conclusion that the public benefits of the proposed use outweigh any and all potential adverse impacts, if any. Motion approved unanimously.
Planning Commission: July 2, 2007; Part I---Evansville Manor
City of Evansville
Plan Commission
Regular Meeting
Monday, July 2, 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 Mayor Sandy Decker.
Roll Call. Present: Sandy Decker, Diane Roberts, Mason Braunschweig, Jim Brooks, Gil Skinner, Jeff Vrstal, and Bill Hammann. Staff present: Tim Schwecke and Dan Wietecha. Others present included: Julie Meredith, Tom List, John Willoughby, Tom Cothard, Tony Wyse, Greg Ardisson, Dick Woulfe, Cliff Woolever, Roger Berg, Jeff Farnsworth, Decklin Every, Reverend Robert Garbrecht, Dan Zettelmeier, Jolene Hawkins, and other members of the public.
Approve Agenda. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to approve the agenda. Motion approved unanimously.
Approve Minutes of June 11, 2007 Meeting. Brooks noted that the public comments for and against the Ver Kuilen/Meredith Tavern CUP had been reversed. Roberts made a motion, seconded by Braunschweig, to approve the minutes with the correction. Motion approved unanimously.
Citizen Appearances. None.
Unfinished Business.
Flood Insurance Rate Maps. Schwecke said no Evansville residents had commented to FEMA in contradiction to the proposed maps. It will be about a year before FEMA formally adopts the new maps.
Allen Creek Master Plan. Wietecha said property owner interviews would be starting in the next couple weeks. A mid-project open house is tentatively scheduled during the August 21 Redevelopment Authority meeting.
New Business.
Evansville Manor Zoning Map Amendment (application 2007-6). Noting that her husband sits on the board for the Evansville Manor and that they own stock in it, Decker turned the meeting over to Braunschweig. Tom List of Plunkett Raysich Architects provided an overview of the project. It includes a separate, two-story building without a basement to serve as a 25 unit residential care apartment complex (RCAC). Access would be off Fourth Street, where the Manor is acquiring several properties. The interior roads have been designed based on comments for truck access from the Fire Department. There would be 1 parking space for every two apartment units which is the industry standard. In answer to a question from the Commission, Cliff Woolever said the new building would have a staff of about fifteen with only three or four on schedule at one time; there is adequate employee parking.
Schwecke noted that if the planned unit development (PUD) is approved it will still go through a site plan approval. The boundary of the PUD can also be amended in the future, as can the development standards in the ordinance. In answer to a question from the Commission, he said that a 0.3 opacity buffer and landscaping standards would be required; those would be more specific during the site plan review.
Braunschweig opened the public hearing at 6:29. Public comments generally in favor of the application included:
Good to see Manor expanding and offering additional variety of housing choices in Evansville.
Good addition for neighborhood.
Support expanding business and employment.
Public comments generally against the application included:
Danger of speeding traffic already in the area.
Need for sidewalk along Fifth Street.
Public Comments included several questions for clarification:
There is the potential for a community-based residential facility (CBRF) in the future, but none is currently planned.
Setback requirements would generally be 30 feet, but could vary in some parts of the irregular shaped lot.
The Commission cannot speculate on any potential impact to neighboring property values.
Employee parking is required in the development standards.
There would be an additional access off Fourth Street.
The Commission noted written comments from Michael LaRue. The public hearing closed at 6:37. The Commission asked about sight lines at the new driveway; it is perpendicular to Fourth Street and the trees are mature with a high canopy. The Commission noted that aside from some traffic concerns, the public had been generally supportive. In reviewing the staff report, the Commission noted the PUD would be consistent with the zoning code and compatible with the neighborhood. Cliff Woolever said that it would not be a traffic intensive development and that employees would not typically park on the street.
The Commission stated that the potential public benefits outweigh any and all potential adverse impacts of the PUD. Roberts made a motion, seconded by Hammann, to recommend to Common Council adoption of Ordinance #2007-7 as drafted based on findings contained in the staff report and on the conclusion that the public benefits of the proposed zoning classification outweigh any and all potential adverse impacts, if any. Motion approved unanimously.
Plan Commission
Regular Meeting
Monday, July 2, 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 Mayor Sandy Decker.
Roll Call. Present: Sandy Decker, Diane Roberts, Mason Braunschweig, Jim Brooks, Gil Skinner, Jeff Vrstal, and Bill Hammann. Staff present: Tim Schwecke and Dan Wietecha. Others present included: Julie Meredith, Tom List, John Willoughby, Tom Cothard, Tony Wyse, Greg Ardisson, Dick Woulfe, Cliff Woolever, Roger Berg, Jeff Farnsworth, Decklin Every, Reverend Robert Garbrecht, Dan Zettelmeier, Jolene Hawkins, and other members of the public.
Approve Agenda. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to approve the agenda. Motion approved unanimously.
Approve Minutes of June 11, 2007 Meeting. Brooks noted that the public comments for and against the Ver Kuilen/Meredith Tavern CUP had been reversed. Roberts made a motion, seconded by Braunschweig, to approve the minutes with the correction. Motion approved unanimously.
Citizen Appearances. None.
Unfinished Business.
Flood Insurance Rate Maps. Schwecke said no Evansville residents had commented to FEMA in contradiction to the proposed maps. It will be about a year before FEMA formally adopts the new maps.
Allen Creek Master Plan. Wietecha said property owner interviews would be starting in the next couple weeks. A mid-project open house is tentatively scheduled during the August 21 Redevelopment Authority meeting.
New Business.
Evansville Manor Zoning Map Amendment (application 2007-6). Noting that her husband sits on the board for the Evansville Manor and that they own stock in it, Decker turned the meeting over to Braunschweig. Tom List of Plunkett Raysich Architects provided an overview of the project. It includes a separate, two-story building without a basement to serve as a 25 unit residential care apartment complex (RCAC). Access would be off Fourth Street, where the Manor is acquiring several properties. The interior roads have been designed based on comments for truck access from the Fire Department. There would be 1 parking space for every two apartment units which is the industry standard. In answer to a question from the Commission, Cliff Woolever said the new building would have a staff of about fifteen with only three or four on schedule at one time; there is adequate employee parking.
Schwecke noted that if the planned unit development (PUD) is approved it will still go through a site plan approval. The boundary of the PUD can also be amended in the future, as can the development standards in the ordinance. In answer to a question from the Commission, he said that a 0.3 opacity buffer and landscaping standards would be required; those would be more specific during the site plan review.
Braunschweig opened the public hearing at 6:29. Public comments generally in favor of the application included:
Good to see Manor expanding and offering additional variety of housing choices in Evansville.
Good addition for neighborhood.
Support expanding business and employment.
Public comments generally against the application included:
Danger of speeding traffic already in the area.
Need for sidewalk along Fifth Street.
Public Comments included several questions for clarification:
There is the potential for a community-based residential facility (CBRF) in the future, but none is currently planned.
Setback requirements would generally be 30 feet, but could vary in some parts of the irregular shaped lot.
The Commission cannot speculate on any potential impact to neighboring property values.
Employee parking is required in the development standards.
There would be an additional access off Fourth Street.
The Commission noted written comments from Michael LaRue. The public hearing closed at 6:37. The Commission asked about sight lines at the new driveway; it is perpendicular to Fourth Street and the trees are mature with a high canopy. The Commission noted that aside from some traffic concerns, the public had been generally supportive. In reviewing the staff report, the Commission noted the PUD would be consistent with the zoning code and compatible with the neighborhood. Cliff Woolever said that it would not be a traffic intensive development and that employees would not typically park on the street.
The Commission stated that the potential public benefits outweigh any and all potential adverse impacts of the PUD. Roberts made a motion, seconded by Hammann, to recommend to Common Council adoption of Ordinance #2007-7 as drafted based on findings contained in the staff report and on the conclusion that the public benefits of the proposed zoning classification outweigh any and all potential adverse impacts, if any. Motion approved unanimously.
Finance and Labor meets Monday: Financing Lake Leota on Agenda for discussion
Click on the post for the full agenda.
TONIGHT----Two Bands for the Price of One
Friday, July 6th, Lake Leota Park
Beer Tent 6:00 pm—12:00 am
70’s Reunion Group Welcome
Boogie Men & Band X– 8:00 pm—12:00 am
Two Funky Bands for the Price of One! Playing
Get Down & Boogie Songs of the 70’s and beyond!
$5.00 cover
Beer Tent 6:00 pm—12:00 am
70’s Reunion Group Welcome
Boogie Men & Band X– 8:00 pm—12:00 am
Two Funky Bands for the Price of One! Playing
Get Down & Boogie Songs of the 70’s and beyond!
$5.00 cover
Observer welcomes Foreign Exchange Students
The Evansville Observer sends warm wishes to all the foreign students from around the world who are visiting this site.
You can see their visits by clicking on the sitemeter on the lower right of the blog.
This is the time of year that families are selecting students and students are checking out where they might be calling home.
If you might be interested in being a host family, contact the District Office. Thanks.
You can see their visits by clicking on the sitemeter on the lower right of the blog.
This is the time of year that families are selecting students and students are checking out where they might be calling home.
If you might be interested in being a host family, contact the District Office. Thanks.
Planning Commission: 7-2-2007
(Ed. note: This is the audio of the first part of the discussion on Planning Commission of 7-2-2007 re the addition of acres to the interim land map for development as walkable neighborhood. )
Evansville City Planner reviews plan to bust smart growth limits and explains rationale.
MP3 File
Evansville City Planner reviews plan to bust smart growth limits and explains rationale.
MP3 File
"Conference"------a true Story
(Ed. note: In the midst of the MASH performance at the Evansville PAC, I thought I might post a little sketch of hospital life. The Observer was a hospital business manager in an earlier period. )
Everybody knows that it is best if the doctor looks at your injury or test results and seems very bored with it----it probably is "NORMAL." That is good for you.
The very worst thing is when you hear those words, " HMMMMM. This is very I N T E R E S T I N G." Always be wary when you hear that. That normally means that the doctor does not know what is wrong or that he/she knows and it might be bad or complicated.
If it is complicated, the regular doctor might refer you to a specialist.
There is someting else though, not called a "consult" but a "conference". I thought you might be interested.
This is a very complicated case where ....lets just say this is a cardiac case.....your cardiologist would ask others to review the current tests and go over in conference what course of care should be pursued. Techs are also invited to attend. These meetings ususally occur in the very early morning and are part of continuing education for all involved.
It might also surprise you that there are differences of opinion as to what course to pursue in various cases. Yes. Even heated discussion. At the end of the conference they try to reach a consensus on what is best for the patient. After all ------- a life is on the line. Maybe even yours.
I mention this little story....because in public life....and in planning decisions...it is o.k. to take a little time out....for a "conference"----and not rush things for an agenda or two...and just put the patient first....or the community needs first as the case may be.
Everybody knows that it is best if the doctor looks at your injury or test results and seems very bored with it----it probably is "NORMAL." That is good for you.
The very worst thing is when you hear those words, " HMMMMM. This is very I N T E R E S T I N G." Always be wary when you hear that. That normally means that the doctor does not know what is wrong or that he/she knows and it might be bad or complicated.
If it is complicated, the regular doctor might refer you to a specialist.
There is someting else though, not called a "consult" but a "conference". I thought you might be interested.
This is a very complicated case where ....lets just say this is a cardiac case.....your cardiologist would ask others to review the current tests and go over in conference what course of care should be pursued. Techs are also invited to attend. These meetings ususally occur in the very early morning and are part of continuing education for all involved.
It might also surprise you that there are differences of opinion as to what course to pursue in various cases. Yes. Even heated discussion. At the end of the conference they try to reach a consensus on what is best for the patient. After all ------- a life is on the line. Maybe even yours.
I mention this little story....because in public life....and in planning decisions...it is o.k. to take a little time out....for a "conference"----and not rush things for an agenda or two...and just put the patient first....or the community needs first as the case may be.
Dateline Mpls/St. Paul: Mpls Star: Foreclosure Map shows home buying opportunities/pain
If you click on the post, you can see the latest map consumers can use to click on sections of Minneapolis and get the addresses of foreclosures. There are so many in South Minneapolis, one might just have colored the whole area. Pretty startling. Also it is a reflection of the pain in the subprime market at this time.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Classic Observer: April 2006:
"Do We Really Mean IT? Let's Suspend the Rules.
Are we a people of law or convenience? Do we just suspend the law whenever it gets difficult? Mr. Connors asked the question: "Do we really mean it?"
Classic Observer of yesteryear
MP3 File
Are we a people of law or convenience? Do we just suspend the law whenever it gets difficult? Mr. Connors asked the question: "Do we really mean it?"
Classic Observer of yesteryear
MP3 File
Mr.Connors Speaks: Smart Growth Limits
Nostalgia: 2006: Mr. Bill Connors asks the questions: Is the Smart Growth Target Limit Important? Do we Care?
The answer then was yes. What will the answer be on Tuesday. Last Monday it was NO.
Click on the audio for a step back in time.
MP3 File
The answer then was yes. What will the answer be on Tuesday. Last Monday it was NO.
Click on the audio for a step back in time.
MP3 File
Construction Corner: Observer welcomes Pacific Columns Corporation---Focus on Exterior Shutters
Exterior Shutters are just one of the featured products from our newest linked corporation, Pacific Columns Corporation. Click on the right side link for the latest on shutters.
Click on this post to access the broad range of products they provide. Enjoy.
Click on this post to access the broad range of products they provide. Enjoy.
Nostalgia: 8 1/2 Revisited: Decision comes 8 Years Early---next Tuesday?
(Ed.note: I have reposted due to popular demand, the classic post 8 1/2. Those of you in training may only have to train till next Tuesday when the Evansville Common Council takes up the Planning Commission recommendation to break the Smart Growth Limits. Stay tuned.)
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
8 1/2
Whenever I read the number 8 1/2 my mind wanders back to my freshman year in college. It was the dreaded Freshman English and the assignment was to write a film review of an "enriching" film, on a list presented by the instructor. Waiting till the last minute, I decided to see Frederico Fellini's "8 1/2".
As I left the theatre, I was just a little upset. Not by the film. But by the fact that I did not have a clue what the film was about. It was like no other film I had ever seen. That is understatement.
I have titled this post "8 1/2" because that is the time period that we in Evansville will have to wait till any new subdivisions are planned or annexed. So....It is important that citizens stay fit and trim so they can wait the 8 1/2 years and celebrate at that time----and not before. I have been doing my best to bike each day so that.....after 8 1/2 years, in 2014, I will be ready to raise my hands and clap for joy for the next developer proposal for the increase of housing for Evansville.
In the meantime, this is notice that at the next Evansville Planning Commission meeting on October 2, 2006 two ordinances that provide for impact studies...of traffic and of population....might appear on the agenda. These ordinances are logical extensions of the speech of Doug Zweizig (click on the post for the original speech on June 15, 2005) and go to the very heart of community planning and development.
Plan on attending.
Remember. In Evansville Beauty is not just skin deep...It goes clean clear through to the bone. Ditto for Planning.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
8 1/2
Whenever I read the number 8 1/2 my mind wanders back to my freshman year in college. It was the dreaded Freshman English and the assignment was to write a film review of an "enriching" film, on a list presented by the instructor. Waiting till the last minute, I decided to see Frederico Fellini's "8 1/2".
As I left the theatre, I was just a little upset. Not by the film. But by the fact that I did not have a clue what the film was about. It was like no other film I had ever seen. That is understatement.
I have titled this post "8 1/2" because that is the time period that we in Evansville will have to wait till any new subdivisions are planned or annexed. So....It is important that citizens stay fit and trim so they can wait the 8 1/2 years and celebrate at that time----and not before. I have been doing my best to bike each day so that.....after 8 1/2 years, in 2014, I will be ready to raise my hands and clap for joy for the next developer proposal for the increase of housing for Evansville.
In the meantime, this is notice that at the next Evansville Planning Commission meeting on October 2, 2006 two ordinances that provide for impact studies...of traffic and of population....might appear on the agenda. These ordinances are logical extensions of the speech of Doug Zweizig (click on the post for the original speech on June 15, 2005) and go to the very heart of community planning and development.
Plan on attending.
Remember. In Evansville Beauty is not just skin deep...It goes clean clear through to the bone. Ditto for Planning.
4th---Remaining Schedule
Friday, July 6th, Lake Leota Park
Beer Tent 6:00 pm—12:00 am
70’s Reunion Group Welcome
Boogie Men & Band X– 8:00 pm—12:00 am
Two Funky Bands for the Price of One! Playing
Get Down & Boogie Songs of the 70’s and beyond!
$5.00 cover
Saturday, July 7th, Lake Leota Park
Softball Tourney all day!
Local Food Booths
Beer Tent : 12:00 pm –12:00 am
70’s Reunion– (Level 8)
Nightshift Band-8:00 pm –12:00 am
With over 30 years of experience, this group plays
everything from Sly & the Family Stone to
Santana to Shania Twain– featuring the Paulson
Brothers from Evansville ,Lisa B and special guest
star Elvis Presley! No cover!
Sunday, July 8th, Lake Leota Park
Krause Family Singers-Upper Shelter 11:30 am
Softball Tourney-all day
Classic Car Show: 12:00 pm-4:00 pm
Children’s Activities
Free Historic District Trolley Tours : 12:00 pm –
6:00 pm (advance passes available at ECP/COC office, 8 W. Main
Street. )
Beer Tent: 12:00 pm—8:00 pm
Local Food Booths
“Evansville Idol” Karaoke: 5:00 pm-8:00 pm
70’s Hit Parade
Beer Tent 6:00 pm—12:00 am
70’s Reunion Group Welcome
Boogie Men & Band X– 8:00 pm—12:00 am
Two Funky Bands for the Price of One! Playing
Get Down & Boogie Songs of the 70’s and beyond!
$5.00 cover
Saturday, July 7th, Lake Leota Park
Softball Tourney all day!
Local Food Booths
Beer Tent : 12:00 pm –12:00 am
70’s Reunion– (Level 8)
Nightshift Band-8:00 pm –12:00 am
With over 30 years of experience, this group plays
everything from Sly & the Family Stone to
Santana to Shania Twain– featuring the Paulson
Brothers from Evansville ,Lisa B and special guest
star Elvis Presley! No cover!
Sunday, July 8th, Lake Leota Park
Krause Family Singers-Upper Shelter 11:30 am
Softball Tourney-all day
Classic Car Show: 12:00 pm-4:00 pm
Children’s Activities
Free Historic District Trolley Tours : 12:00 pm –
6:00 pm (advance passes available at ECP/COC office, 8 W. Main
Street. )
Beer Tent: 12:00 pm—8:00 pm
Local Food Booths
“Evansville Idol” Karaoke: 5:00 pm-8:00 pm
70’s Hit Parade
"Chasin" blog: Chasin has the latest-------
Is it HOLD or FOLD? "Chasin" wants to know. Click on the post for the latest from "Chasin."
4th of July---Evansville, Wisconsin
Classic scenes of every 4th of July in Evansville. If you missed it this year, make a note to attend next year.
Download File
Download File
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Minutes: Police Commission: June 28, 2007
EVANSVILLE POLICE COMMISSION
Meeting Minutes
Common Council Chambers, Third Floor, City Hall
Evansville, Wisconsin
June 28, 2007
5:00 p.m.
1. Roll call. Commissioners in attendance: Karen Aikman, Scott Brummond, Steve Hagen, Christe
McKittrick, Wally Shannon. Also present: Attorney Robert Krohn, Counsel to the Commission.
2. Approval of minutes. Minutes of the Commission’s meeting of June 13, 2007 were reviewed.
Motion was made by McKittrick to approve the minutes as distributed and seconded by Hagen.
Motion was approved by voice vote.
3. Citizen appearances: None.
4. Chief’s report. None.
5. Motion made by Brummond to convene in closed session pursuant to Wis. Stat. sec. 19.85(1)(g) to
confer with legal counsel for the Commission who is rendering oral or written advice concerning
strategy to be adopted by the Commission with respect to litigation in which it is or is likely to
become involved. Seconded by Shannon. The Motion to meet in closed session was approved on
the following roll call vote:
Aikman: Yes;
Brummond: Yes;
Hagen: Yes;
McKittrick: Yes;
Shannon: Yes.
6. After leaving previous closed session, Motion made by Brummond to convene in closed session
pursuant to Wis. Stat. sec. 19.85(1)(a) to deliberate concerning a Motion for dismissal with
prejudice for failing to state a claim upon which relief can be granted filed with the Commission
by Officer Fields and to either grant or deny said motion. Seconded by McKittrick. The Motion
to meet in closed session was approved based on the following roll call vote:
Aikman: Yes;
Brummond: Yes;
Hagen: Yes;
McKittrick: Yes;
Shannon: Yes.
During the closed session the following matter was Motioned and voted upon:
Motion by Brummond, for the Commission to deny the Respondent’s Motion for dismissal with
prejudice for failing to state a claim upon which relief can be granted which was filed with the
Commission in the Matter of Disciplinary Proceedings Against Scott Fields; Case No. 200701D.
The Motion was seconded by McKittrick.
Motion Approved on the following roll call vote:
Aikman: Yes;
Brummond: Yes;
Hagen: Yes;
McKittrick: Yes;
Shannon: Yes.
7. Adjournment. Motion to adjourn sine die by Hagen, seconded by Brummond. Approved by
voice vote.
Note: Minutes of the Commission are not official until approved by the Commission at a meeting
called and noticed for that purpose.
Meeting Minutes
Common Council Chambers, Third Floor, City Hall
Evansville, Wisconsin
June 28, 2007
5:00 p.m.
1. Roll call. Commissioners in attendance: Karen Aikman, Scott Brummond, Steve Hagen, Christe
McKittrick, Wally Shannon. Also present: Attorney Robert Krohn, Counsel to the Commission.
2. Approval of minutes. Minutes of the Commission’s meeting of June 13, 2007 were reviewed.
Motion was made by McKittrick to approve the minutes as distributed and seconded by Hagen.
Motion was approved by voice vote.
3. Citizen appearances: None.
4. Chief’s report. None.
5. Motion made by Brummond to convene in closed session pursuant to Wis. Stat. sec. 19.85(1)(g) to
confer with legal counsel for the Commission who is rendering oral or written advice concerning
strategy to be adopted by the Commission with respect to litigation in which it is or is likely to
become involved. Seconded by Shannon. The Motion to meet in closed session was approved on
the following roll call vote:
Aikman: Yes;
Brummond: Yes;
Hagen: Yes;
McKittrick: Yes;
Shannon: Yes.
6. After leaving previous closed session, Motion made by Brummond to convene in closed session
pursuant to Wis. Stat. sec. 19.85(1)(a) to deliberate concerning a Motion for dismissal with
prejudice for failing to state a claim upon which relief can be granted filed with the Commission
by Officer Fields and to either grant or deny said motion. Seconded by McKittrick. The Motion
to meet in closed session was approved based on the following roll call vote:
Aikman: Yes;
Brummond: Yes;
Hagen: Yes;
McKittrick: Yes;
Shannon: Yes.
During the closed session the following matter was Motioned and voted upon:
Motion by Brummond, for the Commission to deny the Respondent’s Motion for dismissal with
prejudice for failing to state a claim upon which relief can be granted which was filed with the
Commission in the Matter of Disciplinary Proceedings Against Scott Fields; Case No. 200701D.
The Motion was seconded by McKittrick.
Motion Approved on the following roll call vote:
Aikman: Yes;
Brummond: Yes;
Hagen: Yes;
McKittrick: Yes;
Shannon: Yes.
7. Adjournment. Motion to adjourn sine die by Hagen, seconded by Brummond. Approved by
voice vote.
Note: Minutes of the Commission are not official until approved by the Commission at a meeting
called and noticed for that purpose.
July 4, 2007 Karate America
First time in the Evansville 4th of July Parade---Karate America Kids WOW the crowd with their crowd pleasing routine.
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EHS Band: "Crazy Little Thing Called Love"
July 4, 2007---- EHS Marching Band and Color Guard rock the crowd with "Crazy Little Thing Called Love"
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Download File
4th of July: Mayor Sandy Decker
July 4, 2007: Mayor Sandy Decker, Grand Marshall leads the parade, in Mr. Millers red Ford Fairlane Convertible.
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Dateline Normal: "The American Revolution Reverse Averaging Con"----FICTION----or: How Normal, Mn. was fooled into 9000 unsold lots.
(Ed. note: This is one of a long series of fictional tales from the land of Normal, Mn. It is FICTION. Other than that......)
Click on the post for the latest from the land of Normal, Mn.
Click on the post for the latest from the land of Normal, Mn.
OpEd; Editors Note: The Joy and Burden of the 4th
With the freedom and joy of the celebration of the 4th of July comes the equal responsibility to exercise that freedom. Yes. It's kinda like weight lifting. It is not the weights that make the muscles. It is their use.
In traditional press, the story is written asking the centers of power what happened. Interviews are taken of the VIP personnel and they say what things mean. On the Evansville Observer, I have tried to offer audio of a subject if possible completely, but have offered only selective video. I can only use bites of 3.5 minutes for upload given my current system. Thus I make no representation that what you see is everything that occured. Of course it is not. The clips are key points in the discussion. My current computer resources do not allow me to upload full meetings that take 2 hours.
Thus----there is a story to be read---but it is not handed to you. I will provide the audio and video as best I can. You the reader must also come to the meetings once in a while. This is not LOST, or AMERICAN IDOL.
Our city has the capability of providing full audio of these meetings, and yes even cctv-----and I have publically requested that they do so. They have ignored the request.
The Amendments to the Smart Growth Plan are important matters to the community and yet there was NOBODY other than the Evansviille Observer and other alderman or developers at this meeting. No press. No contracted city press or Gazette.
Our governmental units feel it is fashionable to hold key meetings in the heat of summer so as to avoid public participation. The strategy works. However, it comes with a big price. ....the price of the very thing we celebrate today--the 4th of July.
In traditional press, the story is written asking the centers of power what happened. Interviews are taken of the VIP personnel and they say what things mean. On the Evansville Observer, I have tried to offer audio of a subject if possible completely, but have offered only selective video. I can only use bites of 3.5 minutes for upload given my current system. Thus I make no representation that what you see is everything that occured. Of course it is not. The clips are key points in the discussion. My current computer resources do not allow me to upload full meetings that take 2 hours.
Thus----there is a story to be read---but it is not handed to you. I will provide the audio and video as best I can. You the reader must also come to the meetings once in a while. This is not LOST, or AMERICAN IDOL.
Our city has the capability of providing full audio of these meetings, and yes even cctv-----and I have publically requested that they do so. They have ignored the request.
The Amendments to the Smart Growth Plan are important matters to the community and yet there was NOBODY other than the Evansviille Observer and other alderman or developers at this meeting. No press. No contracted city press or Gazette.
Our governmental units feel it is fashionable to hold key meetings in the heat of summer so as to avoid public participation. The strategy works. However, it comes with a big price. ....the price of the very thing we celebrate today--the 4th of July.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
School Board meets in Executive Session on July 9
Click on the post for the full agenda in the agenda blog.
7-2-2007 : Evansville Plan Commission: Demographics 101
Point-Counterpoint---City Planner argues that due to gradual decline over the next 20 years of persons per house, the response is to add 283 houses to the housing stock. Mr. Bill Hammann counters that the planner does not understand the basics of Evansville demographics.
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Download File
Planning: 7-2-2007--Hammann Speaks
At Planning Commission on 7-2-2007 Bill Hamman speaks as to the Smart Growth Plan process
Download File
Download File
Monday, July 02, 2007
Dateline Normal: "The Town That Couldn't Say NO"----FICTION
Click on the post for the latest from the town of Normal, Mn....a town of fiction, but....well...other than that...a lot like our own.
Tidbits from Park Board Minutes June 2007----Board reqeusts $115M from 2008 budget for Lake Engineering Costs
. SOLE report: Gib Wiedenhoeft presented a letter from SOLE requesting that the city appropriate $115,000 for the 2008 budget to cover design and construction engineering costs and DNR permit costs. After discussion, Krueger moved, Sendelbach seconded that the PRB recommend to Public Works Committee and City Council accepting this letter and making said appropriation. Motion passed unanimously. In another action, Merritt moved, Krueger seconded that the PRB recommend leaving the lake dry until October 2008, when the current DNR Permit runs out, and seek a new permit in the meantime if necessary. Motion passed unanimously.
Tidbits from the Park Board minutes--June 2007--costs of Park Wall repairs discussed
9. Chair’s report on site-visit by staff from Dry Stone Conservancy: Jane Wooley the project manager and Neil Rippingdale, a master dry-stone mason from Scotland, came on June 1st. They, I, and city staff met for about an hour to discuss the situation, agreed that the desired course of action was not necessarily to restore the walls to “original” condition, if that involved mortaring the re-built walls. Dry stone is much more durable. We discussed ways to initiate the project, including a possible workshop or series of workshops, the first one in October, to train some current city staff and possible other apprentices in dry-stone masonry. Ray Anderson and I went with the DSC people to look at 3 local quarries for possible sources of stone. Footville’s quarry has the best quality stone for the walls, and it’s close by, thus minimizing cartage. After lunch, JW and NR made detailed measurements and took pictures of the entire course of Allen Creek from the dam to the bridge at Madison St. There are about 3000 linear feet of wall, including that “chicken-wire” wall just downstream of the dam, and the wall averages about 4 feet in height. Mayor Decker pointed out that JW and NR would “triage” the walls – what needs immediate attention because of safety issues, what should be done next, and what sections are in decent shape for the foreseeable future. DSC expects to send a detailed report before our July Meeting. As a very general “guesstimate”, the high end cost for having the walls rebuilt by a paid crew of six competent masons would be $400K, and would take about 12 weeks. This is about $100K less than the 5-year plan’s estimate. Labor is the majority of the cost; stone purchases would be a small proportion of the cost. Training local people to do much of the work under competent supervision (both paid) would reduce the cost, as we wouldn’t have to pay for importing workers, housing and feeding them. We could also do the work over several years.
Minutes: Water and Light---June 2007
Water& Light Committee Meeting
Regular Monthly Meeting
Wednesday June 27,2007
6:30 P.M. At 15 Old 92
Minutes
Members Present Tom Cothard Chair, John Sornson and Barb Jacobson
Staff: Scott George Superintendent, John Rasmussen foreman and Dan Wietecha City Admin. Janice Krueger
Also present were Sandy Decker Mayor, Bev. Matthews and Alicia VandenOever WPPI
Chairperson Cothard called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M.
Motion by Cothard 2nd by Sornson to approve the March 28, 2007 Water & Light Minutes motion carried 3-0
Citizens concern none.
Bev Matthews gave a presentation on the 2007 electric rate study. After Bev’s presentation there was some discussion on it. Motion by Cothard 2nd by Sornson to apply to Wisconsin Public Service Comm. For an electric rate increase. Motion passed 2-1 Cothard & Sornson yes Jacobson no
Motion by Cothard 2nd by Jacobson to approve Substation Equipment Package bid of $91,872.00 for Voltage Regulators and $63,480.00 for Reclosers from Cooper Power Systems. $32.175.00 for a Transrupter from S&C Electric and $12,420 for replacement regulator controls. Passed 3-0
Discussion on low-income weatherization assistance for low-income rental of Chinchilla Ranch, LLC. Cothard stepped down from chair at this time. Motion by Jacobson 2nd by Sornson to provide 65% of the $2,707.15 project Passed 2-0 Cothard back in chair.
Committee Report from Chair Cothard. None
Committee Report from Superintendent George. None
It was noted by Dan that he had been in contact with the city Attn. About the Haddinger Stray Voltage Case. If a problem still exists after all the proposed work is done we will do what is necessary to fix it.
Motion to adjourn by Cothard 2nd by Sornson at 7:25 P.M. Passed 3-0
These minutes are not official until approved by the Water & Light Committee.
Submitted by John A. Rasmussen
Regular Monthly Meeting
Wednesday June 27,2007
6:30 P.M. At 15 Old 92
Minutes
Members Present Tom Cothard Chair, John Sornson and Barb Jacobson
Staff: Scott George Superintendent, John Rasmussen foreman and Dan Wietecha City Admin. Janice Krueger
Also present were Sandy Decker Mayor, Bev. Matthews and Alicia VandenOever WPPI
Chairperson Cothard called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M.
Motion by Cothard 2nd by Sornson to approve the March 28, 2007 Water & Light Minutes motion carried 3-0
Citizens concern none.
Bev Matthews gave a presentation on the 2007 electric rate study. After Bev’s presentation there was some discussion on it. Motion by Cothard 2nd by Sornson to apply to Wisconsin Public Service Comm. For an electric rate increase. Motion passed 2-1 Cothard & Sornson yes Jacobson no
Motion by Cothard 2nd by Jacobson to approve Substation Equipment Package bid of $91,872.00 for Voltage Regulators and $63,480.00 for Reclosers from Cooper Power Systems. $32.175.00 for a Transrupter from S&C Electric and $12,420 for replacement regulator controls. Passed 3-0
Discussion on low-income weatherization assistance for low-income rental of Chinchilla Ranch, LLC. Cothard stepped down from chair at this time. Motion by Jacobson 2nd by Sornson to provide 65% of the $2,707.15 project Passed 2-0 Cothard back in chair.
Committee Report from Chair Cothard. None
Committee Report from Superintendent George. None
It was noted by Dan that he had been in contact with the city Attn. About the Haddinger Stray Voltage Case. If a problem still exists after all the proposed work is done we will do what is necessary to fix it.
Motion to adjourn by Cothard 2nd by Sornson at 7:25 P.M. Passed 3-0
These minutes are not official until approved by the Water & Light Committee.
Submitted by John A. Rasmussen
Gazette Corner: Evansville Water and Light seeks 13.1% Rate Increase.
At the time of the WPPI affiliation, the increase had been estimated to be around 5.5% I remember this because I had urged the school to adjust the budget for electric accordingly. It was held at zero increase.
Stay tuned as information develops on this story. Click on the post for the full story in today's Jansville Gazette.
Stay tuned as information develops on this story. Click on the post for the full story in today's Jansville Gazette.
Ordinance Corner: Observer notes the "Stillwater Fence Ordinance Alternative"
(Ed. note: The Observer has noted the reticence of the august body of Planning to offer alternative versions of ordinances coming before them and indeed the intense aversion of staff to any revision offered in case it might hint of weakness. Hence, the Observer humbly offers the fence ordinance of Stillwater, Mn. as a alternative to provide for a little discussion. Enjoy.)
Here is the fence ordinance of Stillwater, Mn.
Fence Permit Information
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you have questions on fences or the fence permit, please contact Mike Pogge, City Planner at 651-430-8822, Fax: 651-430-8810The following is an excerpt from the City Code relating to Fence/Fence Permits.
a. Purpose. The purpose of this subsection is to provide for the regulation of fences in the city, to prevent fences being erected that would be a hazard to the public, or an unreasonable interference with the uses and enjoyment of neighboring property and are compatible with existing uses, other zoning restrictions and drainageways.
b. Definitions. For the purpose of this subdivision, the following definitions shall apply:
Fences means any linear structure used to prevent access by persons or animals or prevent visual or sound transference.
c. Permit required. No fence shall be erected without first obtaining a fence permit. Application shall be made to the community development director along with a fence permit fee in the amount of $25.00. The community development director is authorized to issue a fence permit if the application indicates that the fence will be in compliance with this subdivision. The city council shall hear and decide appeals when it is alleged that the community development director was in error. The appeals shall be taken as prescribed in subdivision 29 of this section.
d. In yards. Fences may be permitted in all yards, subject to the following:
1. Fences in excess of six feet above the ground grade are prohibited in residential districts. (Ord. No. 917, § 1a, 2-5-02)
2. The side of the fence considered to be the face (finished side as opposed to structural supports) shall face abutting property.
3. No fence shall be permitted on public rights-of-way.
4. No fence may be erected on either street side of a corner lot that will obstruct or impede the clear view of an intersection by approaching traffic, subject to the provisions of section 24(4) that would control where inconsistent with this provision. (Ord. No. 917, § 1c, 2-5-02)
5. In residential districts fences are limited to a height of 42 inches in the front yard and exterior side yard setback areas. (Ord. No. 815, 8-1-95; Ord. No. 917, § 1d, 2-5-02)
6. No fence shall be erected where it will impede a drainageway or drainage easement.
7. No fence shall be erected before all lots within a drainage system or platted block have had the final grade established and approved and all lots within the system or platted block have had turf established with grass seed or sod.
e. Along property lines. Fences may be permitted along property lines subject to the following:
1. Fences in residential districts may be placed on the lot line provided that the footings are within the fence owner's property.(Ord. No. 917, § 1e, 2-5-02)
2. Fences in commercial or industrial districts may be erected on the lot line to the height of six feet; to a height of eight feet with a security arm for barbed wire.
f. Existing. No existing fence in violation of this section will be allowed to be replaced or rebuilt. Should an existing fence be replaced or rebuilt, it must come under the regulations of subsection (1)p of this subdivision.
g. Impeding drainageways and easements. No fence shall be erected where it will impede a drainageway or drainage easement.
h. Violations. Violations of subsection (1)p of this subdivision may be enforced by injunction, and the city shall be entitled to the remedy of abatement in order that a fence erected in violation of subsection (1)p of this subdivision may be removed.
Fence Permit Application
Fence Regulations Ordinance.pdf
Things I noted:
Fences can come to the lot line: To require an offset constitutes a "taking" and is theft--whether it is by a governmental body or by a person.
Non conforming existing fences cannot be replaced ---says nothing on sale.
Not the city clerk but the "Community Development director" approves the fences--
They also have the "rib in" requirement". I object to this. I think this "aesthetic" is similar to one preferring a martini "shaken not stirred." Just because Mr. James Bond prefers this does not mean that a martini straight up is not still a wonderful choice.
Here is the fence ordinance of Stillwater, Mn.
Fence Permit Information
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you have questions on fences or the fence permit, please contact Mike Pogge, City Planner at 651-430-8822, Fax: 651-430-8810The following is an excerpt from the City Code relating to Fence/Fence Permits.
a. Purpose. The purpose of this subsection is to provide for the regulation of fences in the city, to prevent fences being erected that would be a hazard to the public, or an unreasonable interference with the uses and enjoyment of neighboring property and are compatible with existing uses, other zoning restrictions and drainageways.
b. Definitions. For the purpose of this subdivision, the following definitions shall apply:
Fences means any linear structure used to prevent access by persons or animals or prevent visual or sound transference.
c. Permit required. No fence shall be erected without first obtaining a fence permit. Application shall be made to the community development director along with a fence permit fee in the amount of $25.00. The community development director is authorized to issue a fence permit if the application indicates that the fence will be in compliance with this subdivision. The city council shall hear and decide appeals when it is alleged that the community development director was in error. The appeals shall be taken as prescribed in subdivision 29 of this section.
d. In yards. Fences may be permitted in all yards, subject to the following:
1. Fences in excess of six feet above the ground grade are prohibited in residential districts. (Ord. No. 917, § 1a, 2-5-02)
2. The side of the fence considered to be the face (finished side as opposed to structural supports) shall face abutting property.
3. No fence shall be permitted on public rights-of-way.
4. No fence may be erected on either street side of a corner lot that will obstruct or impede the clear view of an intersection by approaching traffic, subject to the provisions of section 24(4) that would control where inconsistent with this provision. (Ord. No. 917, § 1c, 2-5-02)
5. In residential districts fences are limited to a height of 42 inches in the front yard and exterior side yard setback areas. (Ord. No. 815, 8-1-95; Ord. No. 917, § 1d, 2-5-02)
6. No fence shall be erected where it will impede a drainageway or drainage easement.
7. No fence shall be erected before all lots within a drainage system or platted block have had the final grade established and approved and all lots within the system or platted block have had turf established with grass seed or sod.
e. Along property lines. Fences may be permitted along property lines subject to the following:
1. Fences in residential districts may be placed on the lot line provided that the footings are within the fence owner's property.(Ord. No. 917, § 1e, 2-5-02)
2. Fences in commercial or industrial districts may be erected on the lot line to the height of six feet; to a height of eight feet with a security arm for barbed wire.
f. Existing. No existing fence in violation of this section will be allowed to be replaced or rebuilt. Should an existing fence be replaced or rebuilt, it must come under the regulations of subsection (1)p of this subdivision.
g. Impeding drainageways and easements. No fence shall be erected where it will impede a drainageway or drainage easement.
h. Violations. Violations of subsection (1)p of this subdivision may be enforced by injunction, and the city shall be entitled to the remedy of abatement in order that a fence erected in violation of subsection (1)p of this subdivision may be removed.
Fence Permit Application
Fence Regulations Ordinance.pdf
Things I noted:
Fences can come to the lot line: To require an offset constitutes a "taking" and is theft--whether it is by a governmental body or by a person.
Non conforming existing fences cannot be replaced ---says nothing on sale.
Not the city clerk but the "Community Development director" approves the fences--
They also have the "rib in" requirement". I object to this. I think this "aesthetic" is similar to one preferring a martini "shaken not stirred." Just because Mr. James Bond prefers this does not mean that a martini straight up is not still a wonderful choice.
Additional Fence data
(Ed.note: The proposed fence ordinance will affect many Evansville homeowners. Are these two fences compliant? Stay tuned.)
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Dateline Normal: "The Case of the Trellis Manager"---FICTION
Click on the post for the latest from Normal, Mn.
Classic Soucheray: "Take Parents Out of the Ballpark"
Just in time for the summer sports. Classic Soucheray. Enjoy.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Nostalgia: Dateline Normal: "The Payback"--FICTION
(Ed. note.: I have republished this classic from January 2007 due to popular demand.)
The Walleye Guy----the poem
(Ed. note: On the eve of the fishing visit of Pres. Vladimer Putin of Russia to Kennybunkport in Maine to visit President Bush, I found this little poem crumpled up near a local fish shop in Madison. I have dried it out and preserved it as best I can for historical preservation. _
I love those
Walleye guys
the way
they always
love the most
expensive
fish
I love the way
they
never settle
for just
a sunny or a
lowly perch
the way they
persist for
nothing but
the best
I love those
walleye guys
the way they
always have
someone near
to bait their
hook or
clean the
catch
I love those
walleye guys
the way they always
get the biggest
boat, so not
to cramp their
style
I love those
walleye guys
the way they always
whisper
a little
business in
my ear
even though I
couldn't care
just to make
it tax deductible.
I love those
walleye guys
the way they always
hire a guide
so we never feel
uncomfortable
and lost
in any
way
I love those
walleye guys
the way they cook
that walleye in
upscale ways
It's so precious at
$300.00 per lb.
I love those
Walleye guys
the way
they always
love the most
expensive
fish
I love the way
they
never settle
for just
a sunny or a
lowly perch
the way they
persist for
nothing but
the best
I love those
walleye guys
the way they
always have
someone near
to bait their
hook or
clean the
catch
I love those
walleye guys
the way they always
get the biggest
boat, so not
to cramp their
style
I love those
walleye guys
the way they always
whisper
a little
business in
my ear
even though I
couldn't care
just to make
it tax deductible.
I love those
walleye guys
the way they always
hire a guide
so we never feel
uncomfortable
and lost
in any
way
I love those
walleye guys
the way they cook
that walleye in
upscale ways
It's so precious at
$300.00 per lb.
Friday, June 29, 2007
Dateline Normal: The "Normal" Unified Municipal Code--FICTION
Click on the post for the latest from the ficitonal land of Normal, Mn.
Public Safety meets next week: The return of Bernardo Maurice---new bar coming to town?
(Ed. note: This is just a portion of the agenda for the Public Safety meeting on July 3. See the Agenda blog for full agenda. Bernardo Maurice is the gentleman who was going to put up the Family Entertainment Center near the New Ace. Stay tuned. )
New Business
Motion to approve the Franklin Street, Jackson, and East Main Street Block Party on Sunday, July 29, 2007 between the hours of 1 pm and 4 pm.
Motion to approve Pete’s Inn request to close down the alley for their annual Anniversary Celebration and the Chamber of Commerce Garage Sale Days Event.
Discuss and motion to approve Evansville Bowl request for July 5, 2007 Pub Crawl and July 7, 2007 “70’s Class Reunion” Festivities to close Railroad/Mill Street from North Madison to East Main Street, and East Main Street from South Madison to Union Street intersection.
Motions to recommend to Council approval of Class “B” Beer/“Class B” Liquor application for:
Morice, Bernardo J., 518 Vision Dr., Evansville, WI 53536 d/b/a Morice Enterprises, Inc., 60 Union St., Evansville WI 53536
D. Motion to approve the request for an operator license for:
Tonie Jo Merrill (Pete’s Inn)
Dewayne F. Baumberger and Jaclyn M. Baumberger (ECP July 4, Bartender List)
Vanessa M. Hinkel (Goodspeed Gas N’ Go)
Brenda K. Wyttenbach (Goodspeed Gas N’ Go)
Sarah L. Mosher (VFW)
10. Motion to adjourn
Diane Roberts, Chairperson
New Business
Motion to approve the Franklin Street, Jackson, and East Main Street Block Party on Sunday, July 29, 2007 between the hours of 1 pm and 4 pm.
Motion to approve Pete’s Inn request to close down the alley for their annual Anniversary Celebration and the Chamber of Commerce Garage Sale Days Event.
Discuss and motion to approve Evansville Bowl request for July 5, 2007 Pub Crawl and July 7, 2007 “70’s Class Reunion” Festivities to close Railroad/Mill Street from North Madison to East Main Street, and East Main Street from South Madison to Union Street intersection.
Motions to recommend to Council approval of Class “B” Beer/“Class B” Liquor application for:
Morice, Bernardo J., 518 Vision Dr., Evansville, WI 53536 d/b/a Morice Enterprises, Inc., 60 Union St., Evansville WI 53536
D. Motion to approve the request for an operator license for:
Tonie Jo Merrill (Pete’s Inn)
Dewayne F. Baumberger and Jaclyn M. Baumberger (ECP July 4, Bartender List)
Vanessa M. Hinkel (Goodspeed Gas N’ Go)
Brenda K. Wyttenbach (Goodspeed Gas N’ Go)
Sarah L. Mosher (VFW)
10. Motion to adjourn
Diane Roberts, Chairperson
Planning Commission meets Next Week-----Plans to bust Smart Growth Plan on Agenda-----
Click on the post for the full agenda.
Months past a huge number of citizens showed up to show their displeasure with the prospect of converting some "future land use" land in A1 to "interim " and the Planning Commission responded. Next week we will see if the Planning Commission is consistent in their committment to the Smart Growth Plan. That is what the mayor pledged to support in her election campaign. Calling things "walkable neighborhoods" does not make things different. If it quacks.....it is a duck.
Union Planning recently acted to prevent land from moving from Future designated to interim status.
The ball is now in the Evansville Planning Commission to see whether they mean it----or are they just kidding?????
The Planning Commission will also consider the new application for a conditional use permit for a bar at the Economy Store. I just wonder whether the Economy Store will be the final location for this proposal. I have no opinion on the proposal, though I think it probable that the final location will be different. Stay tuned to the Observer for all the video and audio details.
Months past a huge number of citizens showed up to show their displeasure with the prospect of converting some "future land use" land in A1 to "interim " and the Planning Commission responded. Next week we will see if the Planning Commission is consistent in their committment to the Smart Growth Plan. That is what the mayor pledged to support in her election campaign. Calling things "walkable neighborhoods" does not make things different. If it quacks.....it is a duck.
Union Planning recently acted to prevent land from moving from Future designated to interim status.
The ball is now in the Evansville Planning Commission to see whether they mean it----or are they just kidding?????
The Planning Commission will also consider the new application for a conditional use permit for a bar at the Economy Store. I just wonder whether the Economy Store will be the final location for this proposal. I have no opinion on the proposal, though I think it probable that the final location will be different. Stay tuned to the Observer for all the video and audio details.
Minutes: Common Council; June 27, 2007
City of Evansville
Common Council
Special Meeting
Wednesday, June 27, 2007, 6:00 pm
Public Works Garage, 535 S. Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin
MINUTES
Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm by Mayor Sandy Decker.
Roll Call. Present: Mayor Decker and Alderpersons Mason Braunschweig, Diane Roberts, Barb Jacobson, John Sornson, Fred Juergens, Tony Wyse, and Dennis Wessels. Also present: Dan Wietecha, John Willoughby, and Cliff Woolever.
Approve Agenda. Braunschweig moved, seconded by Roberts, to approve the agenda. Motion passed unanimously.
Deferral of Minutes of June 12, 2007, Meeting. Braunschweig moved, seconded by Cothard, to defer approval of the minutes to the next regular meeting. Motion approved unanimously.
Citizen Appearances. None.
New Business.
Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to waive the seven-day notice requirement on mayoral appointments. Motion approved unanimously.
Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to approve the mayoral appointment of Judy Walton, 6001 W. Co. Road M, Edgerton, to the position of City Clerk for an indefinite term starting July 16, 2007. Wietecha briefly described the application and interviewing process. Motion approved unanimously.
Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to approve the employment contract with Judy Walton. On a roll call vote, motion approved unanimously.
Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to approve a $250.00 stipend for the Acting City Clerk. On a roll call vote, motion approved unanimously.
Noting that her husband sits on the board for the Evansville Manor and that they own stock in it, Mayor Decker turned the meeting over to Council President Braunschweig. John Willoughby described the properties that the Manor is in the process of acquiring and noted they would be part of the proposed TID #8. The Council noted Cliff Woolever’s letter indicating the Manor’s willingness to reimburse the city for the feasibility study. Roberts made a motion, seconded by Juergens, to approve hiring Ehlers & Associates for the feasibility phase for the potential creation of TID #8. On a roll call vote, motion approved unanimously.
Adjournment. Roberts made a motion, seconded by Braunschweig, to adjourn the meeting. Motion approved unanimously at 6:15 pm.
Common Council
Special Meeting
Wednesday, June 27, 2007, 6:00 pm
Public Works Garage, 535 S. Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin
MINUTES
Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm by Mayor Sandy Decker.
Roll Call. Present: Mayor Decker and Alderpersons Mason Braunschweig, Diane Roberts, Barb Jacobson, John Sornson, Fred Juergens, Tony Wyse, and Dennis Wessels. Also present: Dan Wietecha, John Willoughby, and Cliff Woolever.
Approve Agenda. Braunschweig moved, seconded by Roberts, to approve the agenda. Motion passed unanimously.
Deferral of Minutes of June 12, 2007, Meeting. Braunschweig moved, seconded by Cothard, to defer approval of the minutes to the next regular meeting. Motion approved unanimously.
Citizen Appearances. None.
New Business.
Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to waive the seven-day notice requirement on mayoral appointments. Motion approved unanimously.
Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to approve the mayoral appointment of Judy Walton, 6001 W. Co. Road M, Edgerton, to the position of City Clerk for an indefinite term starting July 16, 2007. Wietecha briefly described the application and interviewing process. Motion approved unanimously.
Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to approve the employment contract with Judy Walton. On a roll call vote, motion approved unanimously.
Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Roberts, to approve a $250.00 stipend for the Acting City Clerk. On a roll call vote, motion approved unanimously.
Noting that her husband sits on the board for the Evansville Manor and that they own stock in it, Mayor Decker turned the meeting over to Council President Braunschweig. John Willoughby described the properties that the Manor is in the process of acquiring and noted they would be part of the proposed TID #8. The Council noted Cliff Woolever’s letter indicating the Manor’s willingness to reimburse the city for the feasibility study. Roberts made a motion, seconded by Juergens, to approve hiring Ehlers & Associates for the feasibility phase for the potential creation of TID #8. On a roll call vote, motion approved unanimously.
Adjournment. Roberts made a motion, seconded by Braunschweig, to adjourn the meeting. Motion approved unanimously at 6:15 pm.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Supreme Court Corner: NYT: Is Affirmative Action History?
Click on the post for the NYT article today on the Supreme Court decison which has limited the use of race for application in school "balance".
Gazette Corner: Re: Police Commission: Wourms: Administrative Report of Chase
Click on the post for the Rock Co. Report, compliments of the Janesville Gazette.
Lessons from the Diaglogue on the Construction Course
Over the course of the past six months, in the dialogue on the Construction Course for the high school, some important things have come out for all Evansville citizens.
First-----the homes on the westside are mostly at zero grade, which means that the contractor has to elevate the home to the proper elevation to avoid groundwater problems. The elevation is specifically on the plat----This was done at the time of the approval of the Westfield Meadows, so there would be documented notice to all buyers of the elevation of the home--and notice to the contractor building the home.
The contractor has to make the correct computation of elevation, or have an independent engineer make it----and any error is not the fault of the seller of the land.
Specifically in the case of the lot at 6th and Badger, Dave Sauer recommended such an independent verification of elevation BEFORE the basement was dug, NOT after by the city inspector.
I have published my correspondence on this matter so all could know that I was assured during my race for the school board, that the proper calculation would be made so in the very first home built, of this important construction course, that no error by the basement contractor was made.
I have attached the letter from Supr. Heidi Carvin to the Board as well as my letter for the file;
Subject: FW: Dave Sauer ----consult re 6th and Badger lot and recommendation
Date: Thu, 22 Feb 2007 11:05:58 -0600
From: "Carvin, Heidi" Add to Address Book Add Mobile Alert
To: "Koustroun, Robert"
CC: "Pierick, Michael", "Larson, Michael" , "Hatfield, Dennis" , woulfe98@yahoo.com
Rob,
There was a question raised at Monday’s finance meeting about potential water issues on the lot being considered for the Advanced Building Trades class. I remember that you and I briefly discussed the issue and that you were taking those factors into account as the house was being designed. Please read the information below. I would assume that you and the developers will be following the process discussed below. Could you share the draft of the plans at the March 19 finance meeting? Even if the plans are not ready, we will have some questions about how and when the construction loan would be sought. If you can’t make the meeting, please fill Deb Olsen and I in ahead of the meeting and we will share the information.
Heidi J. Carvin
608-882-3386
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Richard Woulfe [mailto:woulfe98@yahoo.com]
Sent: Thursday, February 22, 2007 10:33 AM
To: Carvin, Heidi
Subject: Re: Dave Sauer ----consult re 6th and Badger lot and recommendation
Heidi----
Dave Sauer with Foth and VanDyle called me this morn and reviewed the lot at 6th and Badger and my concern about the proximity to problems nearby.
He recommended that the contractor be required to have a surveyor verify that the proper elevation was prepared and that each plat had the elevation necessary for that lot printed on it. The city has the procedure for getting the benchmarks necessary. This requirement would ensure than an error was not made in the construction of the basement.
Mr. Sauer recommended this procedure for each house being built and not just at this lot. If this procedure was insisted on I have no concerns about the site proposed and have indicated so to Mr. Berg. This surveyor verification is over and above any city inspection by Mr. Wartenmueller. That inspection occurs after the fact and too late to remedy an error.
best regards,
Richard Woulfe
"
First-----the homes on the westside are mostly at zero grade, which means that the contractor has to elevate the home to the proper elevation to avoid groundwater problems. The elevation is specifically on the plat----This was done at the time of the approval of the Westfield Meadows, so there would be documented notice to all buyers of the elevation of the home--and notice to the contractor building the home.
The contractor has to make the correct computation of elevation, or have an independent engineer make it----and any error is not the fault of the seller of the land.
Specifically in the case of the lot at 6th and Badger, Dave Sauer recommended such an independent verification of elevation BEFORE the basement was dug, NOT after by the city inspector.
I have published my correspondence on this matter so all could know that I was assured during my race for the school board, that the proper calculation would be made so in the very first home built, of this important construction course, that no error by the basement contractor was made.
I have attached the letter from Supr. Heidi Carvin to the Board as well as my letter for the file;
Subject: FW: Dave Sauer ----consult re 6th and Badger lot and recommendation
Date: Thu, 22 Feb 2007 11:05:58 -0600
From: "Carvin, Heidi"
To: "Koustroun, Robert"
CC: "Pierick, Michael"
Rob,
There was a question raised at Monday’s finance meeting about potential water issues on the lot being considered for the Advanced Building Trades class. I remember that you and I briefly discussed the issue and that you were taking those factors into account as the house was being designed. Please read the information below. I would assume that you and the developers will be following the process discussed below. Could you share the draft of the plans at the March 19 finance meeting? Even if the plans are not ready, we will have some questions about how and when the construction loan would be sought. If you can’t make the meeting, please fill Deb Olsen and I in ahead of the meeting and we will share the information.
Heidi J. Carvin
608-882-3386
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Richard Woulfe [mailto:woulfe98@yahoo.com]
Sent: Thursday, February 22, 2007 10:33 AM
To: Carvin, Heidi
Subject: Re: Dave Sauer ----consult re 6th and Badger lot and recommendation
Heidi----
Dave Sauer with Foth and VanDyle called me this morn and reviewed the lot at 6th and Badger and my concern about the proximity to problems nearby.
He recommended that the contractor be required to have a surveyor verify that the proper elevation was prepared and that each plat had the elevation necessary for that lot printed on it. The city has the procedure for getting the benchmarks necessary. This requirement would ensure than an error was not made in the construction of the basement.
Mr. Sauer recommended this procedure for each house being built and not just at this lot. If this procedure was insisted on I have no concerns about the site proposed and have indicated so to Mr. Berg. This surveyor verification is over and above any city inspection by Mr. Wartenmueller. That inspection occurs after the fact and too late to remedy an error.
best regards,
Richard Woulfe
"
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