Thursday, September 11, 2014
Evansville Observer: Public Works: 11-27-2007: Joe DeYoung of MSA Speak...
Evansville Observer: Public Works: 11-27-2007: Joe DeYoung of MSA Speak...: MSA: Joe DeYoung speaks: Flooding was no surprise at all. Download File
Tuesday, September 09, 2014
2007: Nostalgia: Evansville Observer: Dr. Lezlie Painovich Presents scholarship
Evansville Observer: Dr. Lezlie Painovich Presents scholarship: Dr. Painovich presents Stoughton Scholarship on Scholarship night. Download File
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Sunday, January 26, 2014
Evansville Observer: Keynote Address: 2008: Economic Summit
Evansville Observer: Keynote Address: Economic Summit: Mr. Terry Whipple, Executive Director, Juneau Economic Development Corporation---speech titled "Catch the Culture." 1 of 3 video ...
Friday, September 13, 2013
Evansville Observer moves to "Archive" Status: Breaking News
The Evansville Observer blog, one of the largest and longest running blogs in the USA, has moved to "Archive" status and will continue to be available to viewers worldwide for searching the history of Evansville, Wisconsin as seen in the actions of it's citizens in public meetings addressing the issues the city has faced between 2005 and 2013.
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Mailbag: Vinehout: Forum explores challenges facing public schools
Forum Explores Challenges Facing Public Schools
Public education started down the statewide voucher path with the start of the school year across Wisconsin. While things might not look different on the outside, big changes are happening in the state’s public education system.
One of the biggest changes is the expenditure this state budget makes in taxpayer-funded vouchers for private schools. At the same time, over half of public schools will see no increase in state aid. Many of our rural schools will see the maximum cut – a bit above 15%. But private school parents around the state are looking forward to two infusions of public money into private schools.
For the first time in state history, private schools statewide are eligible for public dollars through vouchers. The program starts small: 500 students statewide in the first year and 1,000 students in the second year. But people on both sides of this debate predict the cap will be temporary. In addition, private school tuition will be a tax deduction for parents, costing Wisconsin taxpayers an estimated $30 million over the state’s two year budget.
I recently spoke at a community forum aimed at stimulating conversation about the future of public schools. Participants learned Wisconsin’s public schools are doing a good job in the face of many challenges. Nearly 9 out of 10 public schools meet or exceed state expectations while only 4% are failing. But statewide, student poverty has substantially increased.
I shared with participants the story of my school district of Alma. Twelve years ago less than 2 out of 10 students were poor (as defined by eligibility for free and reduced lunch). Last year 4 out of 10 students’ families fell into this category. The Eau Claire Leader-Telegram reported 42% of Eau Claire district students are from economically disadvantaged homes – a 10% increase in five years.
Often, teachers use their own money to supply children with healthy snacks, school supplies, and warm clothing. A school social worker confided that 15 of her Middle School students are from homeless families who have exhausted all options for shelter.
The effects of poverty undermine children’s ability to learn. It takes more resources, financial and staff, to help economically-disadvantaged students keep pace with their peers.
Yet such aid to assist schools has steadily declined.
Jeff Pertl of the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) explained to forum attendees how poverty impacts student performance. High poverty schools are often low performing schools. Students simply do not have resources to learn. Minority students are more likely to attend a poor performing school. This exacerbates the state’s achievement gap.
To address this issue, 20 years ago the state embarked on an experiment with voucher schools in Milwaukee. Questions still swirl around the success of this experiment.
While Milwaukee’s voucher program gave students more educational options, DPI data on 2011-12 Wisconsin Student Assessment Scores show Milwaukee voucher students are less proficient in both reading and mathematics than students in Milwaukee public schools.
The forum audience wanted to know the cost to public schools of the expansion of the private school vouchers.
Mr. Pertl explained on average the state funds 61% of the cost for public school students and 100% of the cost of statewide voucher and independent charter students. Although the voucher system was touted as a way to help poor students in failing public schools, two-thirds of the students who signed up for the statewide voucher program were already in private schools.
UW Madison School of Education Dean Julie Underwood added key facts to our discussion. The most profound statement came from my colleague Senator Dale Schultz whose comment should give us all pause:
“Look, I voted for charter schools at different times and choice schools. And why did I do it? Because I want our kids to have the best and I know that sometimes you gotta look outside the box for a new solution and it’s worth trying.”
“But I don’t quite understand – when the facts are in, when we know that our public schools are doing a superior job – we put the money in the other pot.”
“To me it looks like the largest middle class entitlement ever and how’s that conservative?”
(A tape recording of the forum is available on Wisconsin Eye at the link below: http://www.wiseye.org/Programming/VideoArchive/EventDetail.aspx?evhdid=7960 )
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Mailbag: Social Media Marketing
Group: Social Media Marketing
Subject: 3 Free brand new guide books from HubSpot – download them today before they go away
Our friends at HubSpot have provided 3 brand new guide books to help you build your business. These are always spot on and very useful. Take a look:
1. How to Leverage Pinterest for Business
Pinterest is simply EXPLODING and more and more companies are leveraging Pinterest to reach a new audience, increase visits to their websites, and generate leads or retail sales. Grab this free ebook to learn how to use Pinterest to increase traffic, leads & sales for your business.
Get your free copy here: http://bit.ly/19pdIQi
2. 17 Customizable Templates: Shareable Graphics on Social Media
People are 44% more likely to engage with content on social media that contains pictures. But creating visual content takes time and resources. Download these 17 free customizable PowerPoint templates to easily create social media content that your audiences will want to share!
Get your free templates here: http://bit.ly/1fEVN9Q
3. The 30 Greatest Lead Generation Tips, Tricks, & Ideas Ever
Generating leads is a marketer's single most important objective. Yet, only 1 in 10 marketers say their lead generation efforts are highly efficient and effective. Grab this collection of 30 proven – yet often overlooked – lead generation strategies, so you can start reeling in those leads.
Get your free copy here: http://bit.ly/18zINQr
Go ahead and forward this email to your friends and colleagues that you think might benefit from this.
Here's to your success,
Mike Crosson
Moderator and Publisher
www.SocialMediopolis.com
School Scoop: I'm not the only one who wondered about the CAC vs...
School Scoop: I'm not the only one who wondered about the CAC vs...: The first question asked at the Citizen Advisory Committee information sharing meeting tonight was not asked by me, but was the same questio...
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Mailbag: I and E Meets Wednesday: Micro Brews on the agenda
Hi everyone
Something’s brewing at I&E Club! Page Buchanan of House of Brews will talk about his adventures and lessons in starting his microbrewery in Madison. If you ever wondered what it might be like to have a microbrewery, now’s your chance to hear from someone who’s doing it.
We’re meeting, as usual, at Creekside Place, 102 Maple Street, Evansville. And while you’re at the meeting, enjoy refreshment sponsored by another entrepreneur who created Cloud Knocker, a unique web-venture that compiles all your preferred vendors, coupons, specials and similar information in one handy place.
See you Wednesday!
Monday, September 09, 2013
Friday, September 06, 2013
Evansville Observer: Mailbag: Vinehout Writes: Re: Health Care Changes...
Evansville Observer: Mailbag: Vinehout Writes: Re: Health Care Changes...: Health Insurance: Big Changes Happening "What am I going to do about health insurance?” the woman at the picnic recently asked me. She ...
Evansville Observer: OpEd: NFL Settles Concussion Suit with 4500 playe...
Evansville Observer: OpEd: NFL Settles Concussion Suit with 4500 playe...: The settlement announcement yesterday by the NFL with 4500 players gives one pause and suggests that if taxpayers would like to avoid a huge...
Oped: Starting a World War to get some excitement in a boring second term?
Time to get some perspective....maybe comedy club might help....there are other ways to create excitement.
Evansville Observer: Nostalgia: November 2006: 4K: Jamie Fellows Speaks...
Evansville Observer: Nostalgia: November 2006: 4K: Jamie Fellows Speaks...: Current Daycare providers serve 142 childrens of possible 150 in Evansville. 4K proposal is duplication of services. Download File
Nostalgia: Timewarp: Evansville Observer: School Scoop: District Investigates 4K for the Fou...
Evansville Observer: School Scoop: District Investigates 4K for the Fou...: School Scoop: District Investigates 4K for the Fourth Time in Si... : Click on the link below to see that the district is again investigatin...
OpEd: Jerry Roth ended the 4 Period Day in Edgerton: He knows what to do:
Getting more flexibility in scheduling is not rocket science---it is fully covered in 7th grade algebra under probability: the number of combinations in a four period day is 4x3x2x1==24 and the number of combinations in an 8 period day: 8x7x6x5x4x3x2x1=? Every child knows this math---and the terrible result for current students is harmful because of the lack of flexibility of curriculum and the the scheduling difficulties that result--and the bottom line is lack of attractiveness for residents coming to our community. Bottom line...Change or face the consequences.
School Scoop: Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) to Convene Septem...
School Scoop: Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) to Convene Septem...: I got an email from Jerry Roth, district administrator, inviting me to attend the first meeting to establish the CAC. I presume every parent...
Nostalgia: What Pres Bush told the Pope:
I spoke with the Pope and disagreed about the Iraq war----I told him "Don't worry it will be a short war."
Evansville Observer: Evansville Observer celebrates the End of the Four...
Evansville Observer: Evansville Observer celebrates the End of the Four...: The End of the Four Period Day will be the event that indicates a seriousness about educational achievement that has been lacking for a deca...
Evansville Budget Meetings Scheduled---9-26-2013
Common Council
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, September 10, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI
Agenda
1. Call to order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of Agenda
4. Motion to waive the reading of the minutes of the August 13, 2013, regular meeting and to approve them as presented.
5. Civility reminder.
6. Citizen appearances
7. Reports of Committees
A. Library Board Report
B. Youth Center Advisory Board Report
C. Finance and Labor Relations Committee Report
(1). Motion to accept the City and Water & Light bills as presented.
(2). Motion to approve Exclusive Solid Waste and Recyclables Collection and Disposal Contract with Advanced Disposal Services Solid Waste Midwest, LLC, from 2014- through 2020.
(3). Financial Audit of year ending December 31, 2012.
D. Plan Commission Report
E. Public Safety Committee Report
F. Public Works Committee Report
G. Water & Light Committee Report
H. Economic Development Committee Report
I. Redevelopment Authority Report
J. Parks and Recreation Board Report
K. Historic Preservation Commission Report
L. Fire District Report
M. Police Commission Report
N. Energy Independence Team Report
O. Board of Appeals Report
8. Unfinished Business.
9. Communications and Recommendations from the Mayor
A. Mayoral Proclamation In Recognition of Exceptional Evansville Volunteerism
10. Communications from the City Administrator
11. New Business
A. League of Wisconsin Municipalities Annual Conference in Green Bay, October 16-18. Earlybird registration deadline Monday, September 16.
12. Introduction of New Ordinances
A. First Reading of Ordinance 2013-06, Amending Chapter 46 of the City Code regarding Safe and Sanitary Maintenance of Property. [Sponsors: Alderpersons Fuchs and Montgomery].
13. Meeting Reminders:
A. Budget Presentations Meeting: Thursday, Sept 26, 5:45 pm, City Hall.
B. Committee of the Whole Meeting: Saturday, Sept 28, 8:00 am, Creekside Place.
C. Regular Meeting: Tuesday, Oct 8, 6:30 pm, City Hall
14. Adjournment
Sandra J. Decker, Mayor
Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible.
Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.
Thursday, September 05, 2013
Agenda: Finance Meets Tonight: 9/5/2013
NOTICE: The regular meeting of the Finance and Labor Relations Committee for the City of Evansville will be held on the date, time and place stated below. Notice is further given that members of the City Council might be in attendance.
Finance and Labor Relations Committee
Regular Meeting
Thursday, September 5, 2013, 5:30 p.m.
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI
AGENDA
1. Call to order and roll call.
2. Approval of Agenda.
3. Motion to waive the reading of the minutes of the August 8, 2013, regular meeting and to approve as printed.
4. Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed.
5. Presentation: Financial audit of year ended December 31, 2012.
6. Motion to accept the City and Water & Light bills as presented.
7. Unfinished Business:
A. Discussion: Personnel Policy.
B. Discussion: 2014 Budget.
8. New Business:
A. Motion to recommend to Common Council approval of Exclusive Solid Waste and Recyclables Collection and Disposal Contract with Advanced Disposal Services Solid Waste Midwest, LLC from 2014 through 2020.
B. Motion to approve application to Evansville Fund to support Montana Leggett Eagle Scout project.
9. Adjournment.
Mason Braunschweig, Chair
Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the City Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible.
Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.
Mailbag: Vinehout Writes: Re: Health Care Changes
Health Insurance: Big Changes Happening
"What am I going to do about health insurance?” the woman at the picnic recently asked me. She had no health insurance and had several health problems.
In the next several weeks big changes are happening related to health insurance. Open enrollment will begin October 1st for a new competitive Health Insurance Marketplace for small businesses and those who buy insurance on their own. Health plans will go into effect in January 2014.
Those who have insurance through HIRSP, the state’s high risk pool, will be required to transition to private coverage through the Marketplace.
The recently passed state budget made changes to the state’s BadgerCare program. Under those changes parents, currently covered by BadgerCare that make over $15,500 for a couple, will receive a letter soon telling them they will lose coverage through the state and must sign up for a private plan through the Marketplace.
About 90,000 people are expected to lose BadgerCare coverage by the end of this year. In the counties that make up the 31st Senate District over 4000 people are affected by this change.
But, for the woman I met at the picnic, the news is good. Beginning in January people making less than $11,500 a year will be eligible for the state’s BadgerCare program. These folks should contact their local county health department to receive instructions on how to sign up. Local consortiums (counties working together) are staffing up to prepare for over 80,000 people who will be eligible for BadgerCare beginning next year.
All other individuals who will be purchasing insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace can go to HealthCare.gov for information. There is also a toll-free call center available to help answer questions 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The toll-free number is 1-800-318-2596.
I’ve spoken with many local agents and brokers who are preparing for the expected influx of new customers in October. “We’ve hired new agents,” one firm told me. “We are also planning many information meetings to help answer questions.” He shared that folks really like the personal service they receive from an agent. In addition, those without internet access find it much easier to work with a local agent.
In addition to insurance agents and brokers, there will be specially trained and certified individuals who to help people apply for health insurance through the Marketplace. These Certified Application Counselors and licensed Navigators will not only help individuals but can assist small business people find health insurance plans that fit their needs.
I recently spoke with a former business owner in Trempealeau County. He always provided health insurance to his employees but found premiums very expensive. “I was at a competitive disadvantage because my big box competitors did not provide coverage for their employees,” he said.
The Small Business Heath Option Program (SHOP) will give small employers some of the advantages large employers have today. Small businesses may be able to qualify for health insurance tax credits. If a business has fewer than 25 full-time equivalent employees with an average salary of $50,000 or less the business can qualify for up to 50% of the premium paid for employees’ insurance. In addition, these businesses are now able to buy less expensive insurance through the new competitive Marketplace.
Small employers can go to Healthcare.gov or call the special SHOP phone number 1-800-706-7893. To find out if they qualify for the Small business Health Care Tax credit, employers can visit IRS.gov for more information and resources.
As October 1st approaches, people will see more education and outreach efforts in their counties and communities. I will have updated information in my Senate Office. People can reach my office by calling 877-763-6636. I will also be putting updated information on my Senate website at http://legis.wisconsin.gov/senate/vinehout
The Affordable Care Act is already making it easier for people to get, keep and afford health care benefits. It helps protect consumers from discriminatory insurance practices, allows children up at age 26 stay on their parents’ health insurance, provides free wellness and prevention care, and strengthens coverage for those on Medicare. And the new Marketplace will give Wisconsinites answers to their questions about affordable coverage.
If you wish to unsubscribe from this newsletter, reply with "Unsubscribe" in the subject line
Sen.Vinehout@legis.wisconsin.gov State Capitol Room 316 South - P.O. Box 7882, Madison, WI 53707-7882 Toll Free: (877) 763-6636 or
(608) 267-2871
Tuesday, September 03, 2013
School Scoop: It only took an hour...
School Scoop: It only took an hour...: Well, we stormed the citadel this morning to fix my kid's schedule. Upon entry, the office staff were not particularly helpful. "Do...
Monday, September 02, 2013
School Scoop: Let's Form Evansville's Academic Warriors!
School Scoop: Let's Form Evansville's Academic Warriors!: Calling all folks who are passionate about academic excellence! I have an idea I have been noodling about in my brain for a few years. Every...
Evansville Observer celebrates the End of the Four Period Day for EHS
The End of the Four Period Day will be the event that indicates a seriousness about educational achievement that has been lacking for a decade. Call your school leaders and let them know that academic achievement matters, and that continued obsession with nonsense is not a substitute for change.
School Scoop: Evansville School District Fails Students
School Scoop: Evansville School District Fails Students: My daughter, a Junior this year, has been waiting for her schedule to be posted for a month. On Thursday, my friend informed me that the sch...
Wireman: Meet and Greet Opportunity Sept 4, 2013
Meet Jon Carson, the National Executive Director of Organizing for Action.
We are thrilled that he will be here on Wednesday, September 4, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Hans & Mary Lou Sollinger, 1206 Sherman Ave. lakefront home. suggested contribution $75
Here is a brief bio of Jon:
Jon grew up on a farm in Western Wisconsin before attending UW-Platteville and graduating with a degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering.
He worked on campaigns for more than a decade, including Al Gore's 2000 presidential campaign, and serving as manager for Iraq War veteran Tammy Duckworth's congressional campaign in 2006.
Jon served as the National Field Director for Obama for America in 2008.
Later he joined President Obama's administration as Chief of Staff of the White House Council on Environmental Quality.
He went on to serve as the Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement.
After the 2012 election, Jon was appointed as the Executive Director.
Sunday, September 01, 2013
Mailbag: Eager Free Library: Upcoming Events
Laura, our Assistant Director extraordinaire, has another exciting program starting this fall. Any questions and/or volunteers interested can contact her directly. Emoji
This fall we are starting a new program series for school-age kids (K-5) called the STEAMpunks Club. The programs will be held at the library on Evansville School District early-release days, and each month will have a different theme based on STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. The programs run from 1:15-3:15 and will follow this [loose] schedule:
Open with picture book based on that month's theme
Hands-on activities and experiments
Break for snack and another picture book
Group games
Quieter activities like a craft project or storytelling
Ideally I'd like to have one or two volunteers at each "day" to help set up/clean up, hand out supplies, help with activities as needed, and generally be "around" as a grown-up presence. I have no idea what to expect for turnout during these activities, since this is our first time running something like this, but I'm excited to find out!
Our first STEAMpunks Club day is Wednesday, September 18 (theme is SCIENCE!) from 1:15-3:15. Interested parties can send me a note!
Thanks as always!
Laura Damon-Moore
Assistant Director
Eager Free Public Library (Evansville)
39 W. Main Street 608-882-2260
damon-moore.laura@als.lib.wi.us
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Minutes: Public Safety: August 2013
Public Safety Committee
Wednesday, August 7, 2013 6:30 p.m.
Regular Meeting
Common Council Chambers
31 South Madison Street
MINUTES
1. Chairperson Jacobson called meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
2. Roll call of committee and staff members present was: Chairperson Jacobson, Brooks and Fuchs, Police Chief Scott McElroy, and EMS Chief, Mary Beaver.
3. Motion by Fuchs, second by Jacobson, to amend the minutes to remove Owl and insert Out on agenda item 9, first paragraph and approve the July 3, 2013 regular meeting minutes. Motion passed, Brooks abstaining.
4. Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed- None
5. Old Business - None
7. New Business
a. Motion by Brooks, second by Fuchs, to approve the Operator’s License application(s) for Kathleen K Hermanson, Bonnie L Calkins, Lejuana E Meade, Christine Edlund, Melvin Arnold, Judy A George, Allan L Hurst, and Lynda M Laursen. Committee wanted noted that 7a4 did not have city/state/zip included on application. Motion passed.
b. Motion by Brooks, second by Fuchs, to approve the Temporary Class “B” Retailer’s License application for FairShare CSA Coalition for the Seventh Annual Bike the Barn event on September 15, 2013 in Lake Leota Park, Evansville, Wisconsin. Alderperson Jacobson questioned why there was no listed bartender to accompany the application.
Motion by Jacobson, second by Fuchs, to table the motion to be considered at the September 4 meeting. Motion passed on 2-1 roll call vote.
c. Alderperson Jacobson brought up the Knox Box. Chairperson Jacobson discussed the item. Alderperson Brooks requested more information be brought before the committee.
d. Chief McElroy presented his 2014 Budget for discussion. Items mentioned were squad replacement and radio for the emergency trailer, additional squad rifles, department staffing, and accreditation with associated expenses, phone system, utilities, and office supplies. Revenues seem to be on target for 2013.
8. Police Department
There were 1142 calls for service in the month of July 2013 compared to 1113 in July last year. License plate transactions for July 2013 were 64.
Officer Jones has completed Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) training. Staff completed range training August 1, 2013. On August 8, 2013 one part-time officer, Jamey Davis, will be appointed at the Police Commission meeting. Coop student, Josh Chenoweth, has been working morning hours since June 10th. The Emergency Operations Manual/Plan is being updated with the assistance of Administrative Assistant, Samantha Trumpy.
The police department assisted with the 5k/10k run on the Fourth of July. The July 4th festivities went very well. On July 24, staff went to the Daycare Kids Club and met with children ages 6-10. Chief McElroy represented Evansville at the Rock County National Night Out event in Beloit on August 6, 2013. Officers Reese and Laufenberg will represent Evansville on August 15 for Evansville Night Out. Chief McElroy will attend for a short time then leave for a class.
Evansville Police Department will be participating in the State of Wisconsin annual “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” crackdown on drunken drivers from August 16 through September 2, 2013.
9. Emergency Medical Service
The run total for the month of July 2013 was 50, with the year-to-date total up to July 31, 2013 was 312. 810 had one of the runs for July with a year-to-date total of 38. The year-to-date total for 2012 was 245, with a 67 run increase for 2013.
Effective July 11, 2013, the State approved the Evansville EMS to utilize manual defibrillation on all pulse-less non-breather calls.
The Evansville Night Out is scheduled for August 15, 2013 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. A free of charge pool party will be offered to anyone in attendance after demonstrations are complete. A condensed Bike Rodeo will also be held for local children.
10. Motion by Fuchs, second by Jacobson, to adjourn at 7:58 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Barbara Jacobson, Chairperson
These minutes are not official until approved by Public Safety at their next regular meeting
Public Safety Meets Wed, Sept 4, 2013
NOTICE
The regular meeting of the Public Safety Committee for the City of Evansville will be held on the 4th day of September, 2013 at 6:30 p.m., in Common Council Chambers, 31 South Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin. Notice is further given that members of the City Council might be in attendance.
Public Safety Committee
Wednesday, September 4, 2013 6:30 p.m.
Regular Meeting
Common Council Chambers
31 South Madison Street
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of Agenda
4. Motion to approve the August 7, 2013 regular meeting and the August 15, 2013 special meeting minutes as printed
5. Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed
6. Old Business –
7. New Business
a. Motion to approve the Operator’s License application(s) for:
1) Michael R Paulson
2) Whitney M Snyder
b. Motion to approve the application for the Temporary Class “B”/”Class B” Retailer’s License for Evansville Chamber of Commerce & Tourism for the Shop, Savor and Stroll Chamber Event on September 20, 2013 in the Eager Economy Building, 7 East Main Street, Evansville Wisconsin.
c. Discussion regarding Community Outreach with Dane County Narcotics and Gang Task Force
d. Update and discuss the Park Store burglary, the Press Box Fire and the Church Street explosive device
e. Discussion of Police Department 2014 Budget
f. Discussion of Emergency Medical Service 2014 Budget
8. Evansville Police Report
9. Evansville Medical Service Report
10. Motion to adjourn
Barbara Jacobson, Chairperson
Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible.
Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.
Friday, August 30, 2013
Planning Commission Meets September 3rd: Public waiting for agenda
The Planning Commission meets on September 3rd.....Where is the agenda?
Evansville Meetings September 2013
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 Labor Day
City Offices
Closed
3
Plan Commission
6:00pm City Hall
Fire District
7:00pm Fire Station
425 Water St
Tourism Comm
No Meeting 4
Public Safety
6:30pm City Hall
5
Finance/Labor Rel
5:30pm City Hall 6 7
8 9
Park Board
6:00pm City Hall
10
Common Council
6:30pm City Hall
11
EMS
6:00pm EMS Building
11 W Church St
12
Board of Review
4:00-6:00 pm City Hall
Housing Auth
6:30pm Housing Auth 455 S 1st St
13 14
Municipal Court
7:45am
City Hall
15
16
Economic Dev
6:00pm City Hall
17
Youth Center
6:00pm Youth Center 209 S 1st St
18
Historic Pres
6:30pm City Hall
19
20 21
22 23
24
Public Works
6:00pm DPW Shop
535 S Madison St
Library Board
5:30pm Library
39 W Main St 25
Water & Light
5:00pm W&L Shop
15 Old Hwy 92
Municipal Court
6:30pm City Hal 26
Common Council
5:45pm City Hall
27 28
Comm.
Of the Whole
8:00 am Creekside 102 Maple
29
30
OpEd: NFL Settles Concussion Suit with 4500 players: Concussion Ins coverage next for High school and college players?
The settlement announcement yesterday by the NFL with 4500 players gives one pause and suggests that if taxpayers would like to avoid a huge liability surprise on their tax statements, comprehensive concussion coverage for high school and college football players is next---this would be a pay to play program...pay the insurance if you want to play...
Maybe it should be expanded to the grade school football programs also. Stay tuned as I follow this story.
I and E Club Meets September 11th: Beer Business on the Agenda
September 11: Build Your Own Beer Business
I&E Club is presenting, just in time for Oktoberfest, a program on building your own beer business. Come to the next meeting Sept. 11 to hear Page Buchanan of House of Brews. This Madison microbrewery -- nanobrewery? -- is small but mighty unique due to its business model! This program is sponsored by CloudKnocker, a platform that allows you to search from your mobile device without being "tracked" for advertising purposes. Save the date and come to Creekside Place for this next meeting!
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Evansville Observer: Mailbag: Krake: Theodore Robinson Plein Air Compe...
Evansville Observer: Mailbag: Krake: Theodore Robinson Plein Air Compe...: Theodore Robinson Plein Air Committee PO Box 321 Evansville WI 53536 Hello, It’s hard to believe that nearly two months have pass...
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Minutes: Water and Light: July 2013
Water & Light Committee Meeting
Regular Meeting
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Water & Light Shop, 15 Old Highway 92, Evansville, Wisconsin
5:00 p.m.
MINUTES
1. Meeting called to order at 5:01 PM. Present-Brooks, Ladick, Montgomery. Also present, Mark Sendelbach, Brian Berquist, Mayor Sandy Decker. Dan Wietecha arrived during budget discussion.
2. Motion to approve Agenda as printed. Ladick/Montgomery- passed unanimously
3. Motion to waive the reading and approve June 26, 2013, Water & Light minutes as printed. Ladick/Montgomery -passed unanimously
4. Citizen appearances other than agenda items. None.
5. Customer concerns. Discussion and possible motions for billing adjustments. None.
6. Superintendent Report.
a. Project Updates
i. Garfield Ave-Underground portions of project are nearly complete. Surface work will begin during 1st full week of August. Mark requested that utility be informed when removal of the old road work will be near underground electric.
ii. Hwy 59 -work is complete at both ends. Early billing looks to be higher than estimate but Mark is investigating timing of transition to old 92 for possible billing overlap.
iii. Old 92 & 5th St -Poles are set and line has been pulled from Madison Street to Hyne Road.
b. Disconnection report-Disconnection postponed one week due to high heat. 16 notices sent, 11 still disconnected. Four notices sent for nonpayment of repayment plans. One still disconnected, possibly occupied.
7. Committee Reports
a. Capital Budget discussion-As part of capital budget discussion we looked at the report from Dixon Engineering regarding condition of the water tower. Recommendations from Dixon suggest that painting inside and outside, and various maintenance items should be undertaken in a 1 to 2 year timeframe rather than 5 years we were expecting from early reports. Total estimated cost for all repairs, paint, and upgrades, including $29,000 worth of engineering and contingencies, is $218,000. 2013 capital budget had estimated $160,000 in 2014 for painting the water tower.
b. Mayor Decker, Mark, Sendelbach, and Jim Brooks met with Lauri Isaacson, Cory Neeley, and Phil Hansen of WPPI on the morning of July 31 to discuss AMI costs and possible timing. Prior capital budgets have allocated $50,000 per year on an ongoing basis for implementation of AMI, a figure that has been recognized is unrealistic. Based on equipment recommendations from Elster and discussion with WPPI regarding timing and financing. Total project expenses for implementation would be near $600,000. 1st year expenses for MDM integration would include $25,000 in WPPI service startup fees and $6000 for CIS Clarity implementation. Yearly ongoing expenses would be approximately $8200 per year for WPPI MDM management plus $1500 per year for Elster software license.
c. Based on earlier estimates of revenue restraints and revenue caps, ability to finance major street repair project 2014 appears unlikely. The utility had budgeted $362,500 for 2014 for a 4th Street project that is unlikely to happen in that timeframe.
d. Based on these discussions changes will be made to draft capital budget worksheet to reflect these expenditures:
i. For 2014-remove $50,000 for smart grid meter program. Urban rebuild, $75,000 from cash on hand. Truck number 8 replacement, $28,000 placeholder, committee requested Mark to get more accurate estimate for replacement. The Union Street transformer project, $265,000 from cash on hand using proceeds from 2013 bonding. Move 4th Street project $362,474 to 2015. Increase Paint Water Tower from $160,000 to $220,000. Add $15,000 from funds on hand for GIS handheld and mapping project. Bring Northeast Urban rebuild forward from 2015, $425,000, if funding source can be identified.
ii. 2015-remove $50,000 smart grid, remove $265,000 Union St. , move 2nd Street project $553,124 to 2016, remove $160,000 paint water tower, remove $425,000 Northeast Urban rebuild. Add new capital line for AMI implementation $600,000 total with $300,000 financed by no interest loan from WPPI. We’ve asked Lauri Isaacson to investigate possible loan balances for 2015.
e. Mayor Decker requested that the committee look at Lineman wage competitiveness in the marketplace before placing operating budget request to Council. Committee asked for more information to be reviewed at August meeting.
8. WPPI Report.
a. Written Report
9. Old Business.
a. Discussion and motion to remove from table motion made April 24 to accept bid for water tower cleaning. (Carried from June)- Following discussion, no motion was made. Earlier motion failed on table.
b. Motion to accept contract with Water Tower Clean and Coat to clean tower in the amount of $3200.- Rendered moot by 9a.
10. New Business.-None
11. Upcoming meeting dates. Next meeting at August 28, 2013- 5:00 at W&L Shop
12. Motion to adjourn. Ladick/Montgomery, meeting adjourned at 6:12 PM.
Jim Brooks
Committee Chairperson
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Business Corner: Fun with Ameritrade at the Palmer House in Chicago: MarketDrive: The Magic of Tom Sosnoff
Coming soon to Creekside--Oktoberfest in Monroe PLUS Badger Game after-----Sept 14, 2013
Bus Trip to
Minhas Oktoberfest in Monroe
September 14
Bus leaves Creekside Place at 11am and returns by 8 pm
$35 Fare Includes All This
· Bus Trip via Kobussen Party Bus
· Leave the driving to us
· One Bloody Mary or Screwdriver at Creekside Place
· Box Lunch by Greg of The Night Owl
· Music and Fun all afternoon at Minhas Oktoberfest
· Back to The Night Owl for the Badger Game
Friday, August 23, 2013
Minutes: Eager Library Board of Trustees: July 30, 2013
Eager Free Public Library
Board of Trustees
Meeting Minutes from July 30, 2013
1. Call to Order
Board President Susan Kruser called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Trustees
present: Kruser, Sharon Cybart, Eloise Eager, Gwen Clendenning, Wally Shannon, Vicki Lecy-Luebke. Also present: Library Director Megan Kloeckner,
Bill Wilson (Himmel and Wilson, Library Consultant), Gregory Baum (FEH
Associates, Inc., Architectural Firm) Absent: Bob Flaherty
2. Amendment to Agenda
Eager moved to change the order of the agenda to allow our speaker to move
ahead of business items. Shannon seconded the motion. All approved.
3. Gregory Baum
Library consultant Wilson introduced Baum to the Board, along with some
background information about other library projects he has been involved with.
Baum presented to the Board an expansion process used by FEH Associates, Inc.
The nine steps include:
a. Building Needs Statement
b. Project Goals for Success
c. Site Assessment and Alternatives
d. Existing Building, Drawing, Codes, and Engineering Evaluation
e. Evaluation Criteria
f. Design Charrette and Community Participation
g. Site/Concept Development Costs
h. Funding City, Grants, Capital Planning Study, Campaign
i. Timetable and Schedule
Baum recommended this process should start 14 months before funding is sought.
The cost of this process, with this firm, is approximately $18,000. Two names
were given as recommendations for the capital campaign work.
4. Approval of Meeting Minutes
Shannon moved to approve the June minutes. Eager seconded. Motion passed.
5. July Bills
Shannon moved to approve the bills as presented. Cybart seconded. Roll call
vote: Ayes—Kruser, Eager, Clendenning, Shannon, Cybart, Lecy-Luebke.
Motion carried.
6. Librarian’s Report
a. Budget Update and Circulation
The preliminary 2014 budget will be submitted to City in August.
The budget is right on target for this year. Circulation has increased since
May by approximately 800. We have been borrowing less and lending more!
b. Programming Update
Teen program attendance varied from 10 to 15 attendees. Programming
for the younger children ended in July. Program attendance, not counting
the summer reading program, was 196.
c. August Author Visit
Jamie Swenson will be leading the storytime August 21. The Friends of
the Library will purchase her book Boom!Boom!Boom! from Book World
at a discount and will be able to return those not sold.
d. Fax Prices
Patrons will now pay one dollar per page for using the fax machine. This
will replace the confusing variety of prices charged previously.
7. Old Business
a. Gift Policy
Cybart has an expert examining our policy.
b. No Build Easement
Shannon spent a day at the Historical Society examining documents
which are now in probate.
c. Social Media Policy
Shannon moved to adopt the policy that Arrowhead Library System
has put forth. Clendenning seconded. All approved. Motion passed.
8. New Business
a. Treasurer’s Report
Clendenning updated the Board on all monetary accounts. A question arose about taxable dividends and interest that Clendenning will check out.
A donation from Don Emerich’s memorial service is to be designated for computer purposes. The Board is grateful to the family.
b. Dress Code
Patron comment expressing concern for appropriate dress was shared.
The Board policy was examined and it was determined that Kloeckner
would address any situations deemed inappropriate.
9. Adjourn
Clendenning moved to adjourn the meeting; Lecy-Luebke seconded. Meeting
Adjourned at 6:55 p.m.
(Eager departs 6:30 p.m.)
Next meeting: August 27, 2013
Minutes by Trustee Lecy-Luebke
Note: Minutes of the Library Board of Trustees are not official until approved the Library Board of Trustees at a meeting called and noticed for that purpose.
Nostalgia: 2008: Having it All; Knocking on Heaven's Door
TUESDAY, MAY 28, 2013
Classic: 2008: Knock, Knock, Knocking on Heaven's Door:
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2008 "Knock, Knock, Knocking on Heaven's Door" or "Son of a Preacher Man"---a true story (Ed.note: click on the post for a version of the song by Bob Dylan) Last Sunday, as the family headed out of town to launch the youngest to college, we reached for the music---it had been a long standing tradition that the very first song was always supposed to be a Tom Petty number. I offered that I had a special Tom Petty tape from years ago and they said "O.K." As the song began, there were some moans. "We don't want Bob Dylan," they said in unison. "Relax" I said. Tom Petty is coming shortly. Then Tom Petty came on stage to thunderous applause and he began singing "Knock, Knock, Knocking on Heaven's door with Dylan, in limited acoustic version. We had never heard this version. We all loved it. As the car rolled along, I remembered a famous lunch I attended last December----a lunch of all the community organizations in Evansville. I don't get invited to too many lunches, and was just launching into the entre when the main speaker arose. We will call him "Son of a Preacher Man"---- He began by recounting that he indeed was the son of a preacher man---and that many organizations in Evansville had dreams----and those in attendence knew what they were. He went on: "For a second, let's just go around the room and list off all of these dreams"----and they obliged. The new library, the new fire station, the new city hall, the new police quarters, the Lake Leota Project, the new schools, two of them, the new community center, and the new waste water treatment plant." Just then, I decided to bite into my sandwich: The speaker went on. "I know that there are some who think we need to make choices. That we cannot have ALL of these things at once. For me, as the son of a Preacher man, I think otherwise. We can have it ALL!!! And NOW. That is what I believe." That is when I chocked on my sandwich. Posted by Evansville Observer at 10:32 AM
Thursday, August 22, 2013
Mailbag: Wireman: Events of note:
two events from Wisconsin Women's Network
ONE 1. Many Voices, One Network:
A Celebration of Women's Equality Day
Monday, August 26, 2013
5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Sunprint Cafe on the Square
10 W. Mifflin St., Madison
New! Be sure to join us on Monday for news about an exciting challenge donation!
As a reminder, Women's Equality Day is our only fundraiser of the year. If you have not already done so, sponsor this great event by using the secure Paypal button below, or simply mail back the sponsorship form at this link:
paypal_donate button
Don't forget to bid early for your favorite items on our online silent auction site! Just visit http://www.32auctions.com/WED2013 to view the items, create an account, and start bidding! Online bidding closes on Monday, August 26th at noon. Final bidding will take place at our Women's Equality Day Celebration.
Have questions? Contact us at 608-255-9809 or info@wiwomensnetwork.org.
TWO 2. Join us for a "Women on Topic" Brown Bag on the Student Loan Debt Crisis
Join us for the next WWN "Women on Topic" Brown Bag discussion on Tuesday, September 3rd! The September Brown Bag will be led by Analiese Eicher and will focus on the student loan debt crisis and its
September Speaker Analiese Eicher
impacts.
Eicher is the Program and Development Manager at partner organizations One Wisconsin Now and One Wisconsin Institute where she primarily works on two programs: fighting the trillion dollar student loan debt crisis; and protecting the right to vote. Eicher is an expert on voter suppression efforts aimed at students and young people in Wisconsin and is involved in first-of-its-kind research and groundbreaking polling on the issue of student loan debt and its effects on Wisconsin and the nation's economy. Read her full bio at this link.
The September Brown Bag will take place in the WWN Conference Room, located in the Center for Change, 612 W. Main St., Suite 200, Madison.
Have an idea for a great Brown Bag discussion topic or want more information about the series? Call us at 608-255-9809 or email info@wiwomensnetwork.org. See a list of past Brown Bag speakers at this link.
School Scoop: Let's Form Evansville's Academic Warriors!
School Scoop: Let's Form Evansville's Academic Warriors!: Calling all folks who are passionate about academic excellence! I have an idea I have been noodling about in my brain for a few years. Every...
Mailbag: Vinehout: Budget Myths Abound
Budget Myths Abound
“The State is spending less.” “This budget took a deficit and turned it into a surplus.” “Wisconsin has paid off its debt.” Which of these are true statements regarding the new state budget?
The answer is NONE of the above.
Getting information about what’s happening in Madison is one of the most common complaints of my constituents. The slow summer news cycle allowed writers and readers to begin to catch up on, for example, the plethora of policy unrelated to the budget.
Lost in most budget reviews are the basic financials – the fundamentals of the budget.
Myth number one says the state spending is less and implies the size of government is smaller.
But, according to numbers released by the nonpartisan Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance, the 2013-15 budget spends $4 billion more than the previous. In fact, state spending is greater than it has ever been in Wisconsin’s history.
The new spending goes to a number of expensive new programs. Half of the $4 billion goes to health spending. But for first time in many years there are fewer people covered by state health programs. Nearly 100,000 people are expected to lose state health coverage by January. Not taking federal money for Medicaid expansion left the state budget and citizenry in worse shape.
Myth number two says this budget took a deficit and turned it into a surplus.
The opposite is true. A recent Legislative Fiscal Bureau (LFB) report tells the story. The 2013-15 budget began with a small surplus. Tax collections are improved. Wisconsin is emerging from the recession. The state had a bit more money to spend.
But the recently passed budget spends more than it is projected to collect in revenue.
When spending is greater than revenue – a deficit exists. Lawmakers are bound by the state constitution to balance the budget.
To do this, budget writers carried money over from the last fiscal year to create a technically balanced budget. But when spending exceeds revenue the imbalance catches up with us in the next budget creating a “structural” (or built in) deficit.
A recent report from the LFB pegs this deficit at the end of the 2015-2017 budget at MINUS $545 million.
People are rightly confused about the difference between the deficit and the debt. Sometimes lawmakers use the terms interchangeably. But they are very different.
A deficit is a mismatch between spending and revenue - spending more than money coming in. Debt is borrowing and must be paid back. Spending more than money coming in can certainly lead to more borrowing. This is exactly what’s happening in Wisconsin.
The third myth says the state eliminated the debt. This is false. In fact, state debt reaches record levels in the 2013-15 budget.
Why? The budget increases borrowing by more than $2 billion. Almost half of this borrowing goes to transportation spending. In addition, debt payments not made in the last legislative session catch up to lawmakers.
When debt payments are not paid, interest adds up. In the depths of the recession, Governor Doyle delayed debt payments to gain cash and keep government going.
In the 2011-13 legislative session, Governor Walker did not pay an even larger amount of debt payments coming due. Because debt payments were not made more money goes to pay off debt in this budget than ever before.
I often hear smart budget decisions mean better times ahead. But delaying debt payments always has a cost. This budget pays that price in a greater percent of tax dollars going to pay off debt than ever before in our history. New borrowing only adds to the debt. As a result state debt reaches an all-time high of $14.7 billion - or about 101% of general tax revenue.
Another myth even state officials parrot is the only alternative to spending cuts is tax increases. This assumes everything in government is at peak efficiency. This is far from the truth.
Smarter budget decisions mean smarter spending decisions. An example is paying debt bills when they are coming due – so as not to add interest and penalties.
But to do that would not have allowed the “surplus” used to justify the modest but politically popular tax cut.
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Mailbag: Fracking: Meeting Tomorrow, August 22, 2013
Thursday, August 22, 2013 is the day! It is coming!
The time is NOW to get letters, emails, and / or phone calls to the Riverway Board! This is our last chance before the very important vote TOMORROW.
If you ask Mark Cupp, Executor Director of the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway, to forward emails to ALL board members, he will do that: mark.cupp@wisconsin.gov
------------------------------------------------------
As you compose your statements, you may find talking points to be helpful. Talking [writing] points can be found at http://www.crawfordstewardshipproject.org/sand-mining.htm .
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**Thursday, August 22, 2013 at 5:00 pm**
Location: Crawford County Administration Building at 225 N. Beaumont Road in Prairie du Chien
Lower Wisconsin Riverway Board meeting in Prairie du Chien. Decision will be made on the part of the Bridgeport Mine that is located within the Riverway land boundaries. We need a very large outpouring of citizens at this meeting to show the board our support for No Frac Sand Mining within the Riverway lands.
Please realize the importance of this meeting and the action the board takes! Their decision will impact the Wisconsin River for generations to come...forever.
A mine with a view: Loophole opens the door for frac sand mine near Wisconsin River
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Minutes: Plan Commission: August 2013:
City of Evansville Plan Commission
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, August 6, 2013, 6:00 p.m.
Creekside Place, 102 Maple Street
MINUTES
1. Call to Order. The meeting was called to order at 6:01 pm by Mayor Sandy Decker.
2. Roll Call. Members present: Mason Braunschweig, Mayor Sandy Decker, Matt Eaton, John Gishnock, Bill Hammann, and Jon Senn. Members absent: Carol Endres. Others present: Community Development Director Nicole Sidoff and members of the public.
3. Approval of Agenda. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Senn, to approve the agenda. Motion approved 6-0.
4. Approval of Minutes. Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Hammann, to waive the reading of the minutes from the July 1, 2013 regular meeting and approve them as printed. Motion approved 6-0.
5. Civility Reminder. Decker noted the monthly civility reminder.
6. Citizen appearances other than agenda items listed. None.
7. New Business
a. Public Hearing concerning a proposed application for a Conditional Use Permit request for 498 Water Street to permit a vehicle repair and maintenance facility in an I-1 (Light Industrial) District
i. Initial Staff and Applicant Comments - Sidoff explained that the applicant was currently operating a vehicle repair and maintenance business at 170 S. Union Street, which is in the wellhead protection zone. The applicant was looking for a new space outside of the wellhead protection zone, and 498 Water Street is outside of that zone. Additionally, a vehicle repair and maintenance facility had been approved for the 498 Water Street location in the past.
ii. Public Hearing - Mayor Decker opened the public hearing at 6:04 pm. Tim Magee, 528 Water Street, noted that he thought the proposed conditions were appropriate, as they would prevent junked vehicles from being stored on the parcel. Mayor Decker closed the public hearing at 6:05 pm.
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments - Braunschweig suggested that the sixth condition, which is related to hours of operation, should be amended to allow the business to be open until 7 pm, which would allow residents that work out of town to “shop local”. Plan Commission members discussed reasonable hours for an auto repair business in that neighborhood and agreed that 7 am to 7 pm would be acceptable.
iv. Motion - Motion by Braunschweig, seconded by Hammann to approve issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for Vehicle Repair and Maintenance for 498 Water Street, finding that the benefits of the use outweigh any potential adverse impacts, and that the proposed use is consistent with the required standards and criteria for issuance of a CUP set forth in Section 130-104(3)(a) through (e) of the Zoning Ordinance. The Permit is approved subject to the following conditions:
1. The business operator, now and in the future, shall comply with all provisions in the City’s Zoning Code, as may be amended, related to vehicle repair and maintenance (Section 130-417).
2. No vehicles associated with the vehicle repair and maintenance business or being served by the vehicle repair and maintenance business may be stored off-site or on City streets.
3. No vehicles being serviced by the vehicle repair and maintenance business may be stored at the facility for longer than 4 weeks.
4. No more than 12 customer vehicles being serviced by the vehicle repair and maintenance business shall be parked on the subject property at any point in time.
5. No items associated with the vehicle repair and maintenance business may be stored outside, other than what is expressly allowed under these conditions.
6. Hours of operation shall be limited to Monday-Saturday: 7 am – 7 pm. (Changed from 8 am - 5 pm).
7. All regulations by other governmental entities pertaining to the use shall be adhered to at all times.
8. The use shall comply with Article III of Chapter 130 at all times (Article III concerns performance standards).
b. Public Hearing concerning a proposed application for a Conditional Use Permit request for 40 W. Liberty Street to permit a duplex in an R-1 District
i. Initial Staff and Applicant Comments - Sidoff explained that the applicant was looking to combine a house and a cottage into one structure to meet the family’s needs for more space. The existing house and cottage are currently non-conforming, and it was determined that only way to expand the cottage while complying with the City’s Zoning Code was to combine the two structures and operate them as a duplex. Because the property is in a Historic Preservation District, the applicant was required to take their plans to the Historic Preservation Commission for review. The HPC approved the plans to combine the house and cottage. Braunschweig asked for clarification on the site map regarding where the new construction would be.
ii. Public Hearing - Mayor Decker opened the public hearing at 6:12 pm. There were no public comments. Mayor Decker closed the public hearing at 6:13 pm.
iii. Plan Commissioner Questions and Comments - Hammann asked how many square feet the applicant was adding. Applicant Nicole Batinich noted that they would be adding 575 square feet.
iv. Motion - Braunschweig made a motion, seconded by Hammann to approve issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for a duplex at 40 W. Liberty Street/128 S. First Street, finding that the benefits of the use outweigh any potential adverse impacts, and that the proposed use is consistent with the required standards and criteria for issuance of a CUP set forth in Section 130-104(3)(a) through (e) of the Zoning Ordinance.
c. Update on City of Evansville Park and Outdoor Recreation Plan - Sidoff noted that the Park and Recreation Board (PRB) is doing a prioritization of recommendations this week and discussing the results at their meeting next week. The PRB will review the final draft of the Plan at their September meeting, and the Plan will come to Plan Commission to review and recommend to Common Council in October.
8. Monthly Reports
a. Report on other permitting activity by Zoning Administrator. Sidoff noted she has been assisting Bluescope with the permit application process for replacing their bridge over Allen Creek.
b. Report on the Unified Land Development Code Committee. No report.
c. Report of the Evansville Historic Preservation Commission. The Commission approved the construction project to convert the property at 40 W. Liberty Street to a duplex, as per the discussion under item 7a.
d. Report on Common Council actions relating to Plan Commission recommendations. No report.
e. Report on Board of Appeals actions relating to zoning matters. Sidoff noted that Ward-Hurtley Funeral Home is applying for a sign variance, as they would like to have a larger sign than what is allowed in the residential district in which they are located. The Board of Appeals meeting will take place on Monday, August 19 at 5 pm at City Hall.
f. Enforcement Report. Sidoff noted that the junked car issues in the City are being dealt with and progress is being made. Additionally, staff realized while dealing with that issue and the wellhead protection zone enforcement that a number of vehicle repair businesses do not have conditional use permits. This issue is being addressed, as per the agenda item earlier tonight and another applicant that will likely be coming forward at the September Plan Commission meeting.
9. Meeting Reminder. The next Plan Commission meeting will be on Tuesday, September 3, 2013 at 6 pm at City Hall. Note the change from the regular day of the week, due to the Labor Day holiday.
10. Adjournment. Hammann made a motion, seconded by Braunschweig, to adjourn at 6:17 pm. Motion approved 6-0.
The minutes are not official until approved by the Plan Commission at their next regular meeting.
Monday, August 19, 2013
Nostalgia: 2012: Evansville Observer: "Last Man Standing" found kneeling: The story of ...
Evansville Observer: "Last Man Standing" found kneeling: The story of ...: Stock Markets were rocked today by the loss announced by JP Morgan of "at least" TWO BILLION dollars. The head of JP Morgan, Jami...
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Friday, August 16, 2013
Excitement of Light Rail begins in St. Paul, Mn.:;;Will open for the Major League Baseball All Star Game, 1914
Overnight light rail vehicle tests beginning on University Avenue
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Aug. 16, 2013 –Overhead wires for Central Corridor Light Rail Transit (Green Line) will be energized on the western half of University Avenue so overnight testing of light rail vehicles can begin there the week of Aug. 26.
“With these tests, the Central Corridor LRT Project continues to make excellent progress toward our goal of opening in mid-2014 before the Major League Baseball All-Star game at Target Field next July. Construction is now 95 percent complete,” Metropolitan Council Chair Sue Haigh said.
Beginning late night Aug. 26 into overnight hours, a light rail vehicle (LRV) is scheduled to operate on University Avenue between Stadium Village in Minneapolis and Fry Street, which is two blocks west of Snelling Avenue in St. Paul. The LRV will draw power from the overhead wires for the first time in this stretch of the 11-mile line. Light rail vehicles may be present anywhere along this segment during overnight hours.
Late in the week of Aug. 19 in preparation for the so-called live wire tests the following week, a railcar mover will pull an LRV along University between Stadium Village and Fry during daytime hours to verify clearances before the lines are energized.
The first live wire test of an LRV anywhere on the corridor occurred late night July 25 from the West Bank through the East Bank to Stadium Village. Live wire tests through campus resumed overnight the first full week of August and are continuing there through September.
Testing on the eastern half of University Avenue and the rest of the corridor will begin later this fall. Months of testing will follow, the outcome of which will determine the line’s opening date in mid-2014.
With the advent of LRV testing, Metro Transit has introduced a Green Line Quiz Bowl safety video and public service announcements. They were produced with the help of the City of Saint Paul Communications Services and its own Nick Nelson, aka “Mr. St. Paul Video,” as well as project and Metro Transit staffers.
“We took a game show-style approach in hopes of getting people’s attention on the important issue of how to stay safe around light rail trains. We want people to understand that safety is a shared responsibility,” said Mike Conlon, Metro Transit’s director of rail and bus safety.
Here are the links to the Green Line Quiz Bowl video and three PSAs:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cH2iAQBVF0I
Mid-block crossing PSA: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYduwYwAaxQ
Crossing tracks PSA: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zqHgEXaXS2I
Stations PSA: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2vE6FnLnMs
The videos and PSAs are the latest components of the project’s safety campaign, which includes presentations to school groups and others, safety posters at station kiosks and brochures. See the project’s safety webpage: www.centralcorridor.org/safety
What to expect during overnight testing on University Avenue:
For vehicles: No permanent street or sidewalk closures are scheduled. Traffic controls will be in place to help facilitate train movements through signalized intersections.
For pedestrians: No permanent sidewalk or crosswalk closures are scheduled. Traffic controls will be in place to help facilitate train movements through signalized intersections.
About the project:
The Central Corridor Light Rail Transit Project (Green Line) will link downtown St. Paul and downtown Minneapolis along Washington and University avenues via the state Capitol and the University of Minnesota. Construction began in late summer 2010 on the planned 11-mile Central Corridor line, and service will begin in 2014. The line will connect with the METRO Blue Line at the Metrodome station in Minneapolis and the Northstar commuter rail line at the Target Field Station. The Metropolitan Council is the grantee of federal funds. The regional government agency is charged with building the line in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Transportation. The Central Corridor Management Committee, which includes commissioners from Ramsey and Hennepin counties, the mayors of St. Paul and Minneapolis and the University of Minnesota, provides advice and oversight. Funding is provided by the Federal Transit Administration, Counties Transit Improvement Board, state of Minnesota, Ramsey and Hennepin counties' regional railroad authorities, city of St. Paul, Metropolitan Council and the Central Corridor Funders' Collaborative. The Central Corridor LRT Project Website is www.centralcorridor.org.
Tidbits from the Tourism subcommittee minutes: July 2013:
a. Theodore Robinson Plein Air Painting Contest: Jim Brooks submitted this written report: The Plein Air event held on June 23 was once again successful with 15 participants and 8 paintings sold. Attendance was similar to 2012, and participation down slightly, perhaps due to competition with similar events in Beloit and Cedarburg on the same weeks. However, the lack of new faces and attendance at the sale from out of town means that organizers must find ways to attract new buyers for the artwork or face the diminishing returns that ended the Harvest Windmill Festival. While a returning audience of mainly local residents is encouraging the success or failure of the event will turn on attracting new purchasers to keep it financially viable. To that end, the organizers are looking at a date in September for the 2014 event. Care must be taken to not overlap the competing event in Shorewood on the 3rd weekend of September, and any Packer/Badger home game conflicts. This will be especially troubling since the 2014 Packer schedule will not be available before schedule printing deadlines for our publications.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
School Scoop: A Semi-Recent (2005) Economic Impact Study of 4K i...
School Scoop: A Semi-Recent (2005) Economic Impact Study of 4K i...: Click on the link below to see a 2005 report distributed by 4K(now), a self-describing entity that promotes the value of universal 4K. I rea...
Mailbag: Krake: Theodore Robinson Plein Air Competition: Closing Ceremony--Aug 28, 2013
Theodore Robinson Plein Air
Committee
PO Box 321
Evansville WI 53536
Hello,
It’s hard to believe that nearly two months have passed since the Theodore Robinson Plein Air Competition in Evansville. But, it’s time to bring the display of those works to end. The exhibition at Creekside Place in Evansville has brought attention to the work far beyond what a single day sale could do but now it’s time to send the paintings to their new homes.
Creekside Place will be holding a reception for the artists, sponsors and buyers on Wednesday night, August 28 from 6 until 7:30 PM. We invite you to join us for light refreshments and to pick up your paintings at the end of the reception. This gives the organizers one last occasion to thank all of you who’ve made it such a successful event in Evansville.
We look forward to seeing all of you at Creekside place that evening, but if you are unable to attend the works will be available for pickup during business hours on Thursday and Friday as well.
In just two years, the Theodore Robinson Plein Air Competition has earned its place on the city’s calendar of events. The committee could not have done this alone. We thank all the sponsors, volunteers, and most importantly the artists like this all possible. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Rich Krake
For the Organizing Committee
Tidbits from recent minutes: Economic development
a. Signage - Sidoff shared information about the Evansville Fund’s proposal to financially support a sign project. Their idea was to have a sign similar to the one in Monroe, which promotes events in the City. They proposed that the sign be located at Franklin Park, as it would be visible to people coming to the City and the four-way stop would give motorists an opportunity to read the sign. Sidoff also shared previous plans for a kiosk/sign in Franklin Park, which would mimic the architecture of the Library and serve as a “bookend” for downtown. Brooks noted that the idea of a sign promoting events is intriguing for the Evansville Community Partnership. The EDC discussed the issues of who would be responsible for maintenance and updating the sign, in addition to possible difficulties with WisDOT requirements and a lot of electrical lines being located in that corner of Franklin Park.
Tidbits from June Economic Development minutes
Took a tour of Stoughton Trailers with Keith Wise. Learned about the business - they are currently not operating at the Evansville location but would like to again in the future. They did not lay anyone off when operations ceased in Evansville - all employees were absorbed into their workforce at their other facilities.
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Evansville School Board Meets Wednesday, August 14, 2013
EVANSVILLE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Board of Education Regular Meeting Agenda
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
5:30 p.m.
TRIS LMC
340 Fair Street (Door 41)
Note, public notice of this meeting given by posting at the District Office, Levi Leonard Elementary School
Office, Theodore Robinson Intermediate School Office, J.C. McKenna Middle School Office, High School Office,
Evansville School District Web Site: Evansville.k12.wi.us, and by forwarding the agenda to the Evansville Review,
Union Bank & Trust and Eager Free Public Library.
Approx. Time
I. Roll Call: Dennis Hatfield Eric Busse Mason Braunschweig
Tina Rossmiller John Rasmussen HS Rep. Hunter Johnson
Kathi Swanson Sandra Spanton Nelson HS Rep. Marissa Haegele 1 min
II. Approve Agenda. 1 min
III. Executive Session – Under Wisconsin State Statute 19.85(1)(F) to Discuss Personal
Histories of Specific Persons.
30 min
IV. Public Announcements/Recognition/Upcoming Events:
August 15 – Evansville Night Out, Lake Leota Park, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
September 3 – First Day of School
1 min
V. Public Presentations. 5 min
VI. District Administrator Report – Update on 2013-2015 Biennial Budget. 5 min
VII. Business (Action Items):
A. Approval of Naming the Football Field.
B. Approval of Staff Changes: Staff Resignations; Hiring of: School Nurse, Teachers,
Support Staff, Co-Curricular Positions; and Administrative Contract.
15 min
VIII. Information & Discussion:
A. 2013-2014 FFA Overnight Field Trips.
B. Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Extra-Curricular Proposal.
C. Citizens Advisory Committee Update.
D. 4K Update.
E. Second Reading of Policies: #171-Board Meetings and #760-Food Service Program.
40 min
IX. Public Presentations. 5 minX. Consent (Action Items):
A. Approval of July 24, 2013, Regular Meeting Minutes.
B. Approval of June Bills and Reconciliation.
5 min
XI. August 28, 2013, Regular Meeting Agenda. 5 min
XII. Ten Minute Recess. 10 min
XIII. Executive Session – Under Wisconsin State Statute 19.85(1)(c) to Discuss District
Administrator Evaluation.
15 min
Mission Statement:
The Evansville Community School District, in active partnership with families and the community, will
provide a positive learning environment that challenges all studen
Board of Appeals meets Monday, Aug 19, 2013
NOTICE
The regular meeting of the Evansville Board of Zoning Appeals will be held on the date and time stated below at City Hall (Third Floor), 31 South Madison Street, Evansville, Wisconsin. Notice is further given that members of the City Council and Plan Commission may be in attendance.
City of Evansville Board of Zoning Appeals
Monday, August 19, 2013, 5:00 p.m.
City Hall (Third Floor), 31 South Madison Street
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Agenda
3. Approval of Minutes - motion to waive the reading of the minutes from May 13, 2013 meeting and approve them as printed
4. Action Items
A. Public Hearing concerning a variance application for parcel number 6-27-558.1 at 130 South Fifth Street (Ward-Hurtley Funeral Home) to allow for a larger sign than is allowed by Section 130-1278(c) of the Zoning Ordinance.
i. Initial Staff and Applicant Comments
ii. Public Hearing
iii. Board of Zoning Appeals Questions and Comments
iv. Motion
5. Motion to Adjourn
Steve Stacy, Chair, City of Evansville Board of Zoning Appeals
Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible.
Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.
A
Mailbag: Sue: Great Program at I and E Meeting on Wednesday--Aug 14: Sector67
Hi everyone!
This is one more reminder about our amazing August meeting. Meet Chris Meyers and know that this is a person who is shaping the future for inventors and entrepreneurs EVERYWHERE. He’s the founder of Sector67, a place where folks with ideas can see how they turn out. Inventors get to make prototypes; entrepreneurs get ideas of what makes a business like this work.
Here’s a link to an older newspaper article about Chris and Sector67:
http://www.thedailypage.com/isthmus/article.php?article=33190
This meeting is sponsored by MadREP, an agency deeply interested in helping inventors and entrepreneurs thrive in this area. For more about them: www.thrivehere.org or www.madisonregion.org.
If you missed Halina’s news release, here is it. See you Wednesday!
Get Your Inventor/Entrepreneur “Fix” at Sector67
At Aug. 14 I&E Club
Is your ingenuity and tinkering at home driving your significant other up the wall? Have you accumulated so many gadgets and soldering irons that your mate is planning to have a secret garage sale while you’re away?
Fear not, fellow inventor/entrepreneur: Sector67 offers innovation-minded individuals like you a safe haven, classes and access to even more cool equipment and tools including drill presses, oscilloscopes, injection molders and 3D printers.
Chris Meyer, the founder of Sector67, will be discussing how this hacker space can help you create your next great invention or business idea at the upcoming Evansville Area Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club meeting. The meeting is free and open to the public.
Following Meyer’s presentation, attendees will be able to sample the refreshments generously sponsored by the Madison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP), an economic development organization that encompasses eight Wisconsin counties including Rock County.
Sector67 is located at 2100 Winnebago St., Madison. For more information, please call (608
Monday, August 12, 2013
Dane Dances: Friday August 16: 5:30PM to 9:30PM
Dane Dances!
Friday, August 16 • 5:30 - 9:30 PM
Monona Terrace Rooftop
Featuring:
Christopher Project at 6PM
MadiSalsa at 8PM
DJ Pain 1 spins at 5:30PM & 7:30PM
Ethnic Food Vendors:
• Blowin' Smoke BBQ
• Francisco's Cantina
• Kipp's Cuisine
The Lake Vista Café will have a special Dane Dances! menu
and will be open for the entire event.
In case of inclement weather concert will be moved inside. Call 261.4000 or visit communityevents.mononaterrace.com after 2pm for concert location.
Sunday, August 11, 2013
2001: Nostalgia: Evansville Observer: video: 4: 4K and Head Start Compared
Evansville Observer: video: 4: 4K and Head Start Compared: Video: Some Discussion of Head Start and 4K and how they compared; Download File
Saturday, August 10, 2013
Mailbag: Beer vs Fracking
BEER VS FRACKING
Germany’s Reinheitsgebot, a 500-year old beer purity law, forces brewers to utilize only 4 ingredients in the beer-making process: hops, malt, yeast, and water. One of these ingredients, water, may be threatened in Germany due to the recent acceleration of the hydraulic fracturing (or fracking) industry, which German brewers say could leak chemicals into their private wells, leading to imperfections in their valued product. The Deutschen Brauer-Bund (Association of German Breweries) has urged further research and improved methods before the government’s legislation on fracking is passed. Two large German brewers, Bitburger and Anheuser Busch have shown their distaste for fracking as well, providing a powerful opponent to Angela Merkel’s pro-fracking stance.
Other nations have also shown their opposition to the controversial method of oil/natural gas retrieval where water, sand, and various chemicals are pumped into the ground to break up shale rock. The United Kingdom temporarily banned fracking after drilling practices were connected to a series of earthquakes. Bulgaria and France completely outlawed the practice, and several other moratoriums have occurred in nations such as Argentina, South Africa, Italy, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Australia. In the U.S., Vermont was the first state to ban fracking on May 17th, 2012.
Here in Pennsylvania, where there are currently over 110 licensed breweries, beer makers could be a factor in fracking legislation as well. We have many microbreweries and even have America’s oldest brewing company, Yuengling. With the beer history and culture that our state has, our groundwater is an asset that we should protect. A study at Duke University (http://biology.duke.edu/jackson/pnas2011.pdf) has shown that water wells in active fracking areas have, on average, 17 times the amount of methane as water wells in non-active areas. This is just one of the possible threats of fracking, others of which involve the improper storage and disposal of fracking water waste which could release various chemicals into the ground. Illegal dumping into streams, rivers, and abandoned coal mines has occurred in some cases as well.
Info: Carlana Rhoten
(412) 363-7472
rhotenassociates@gmail.com
Evansville Park Board Meets Monday, Aug 12th: 5 Year Park Plan Front Burner
City of Evansville, Wisconsin
Park & Recreation Board Regular Monthly Meeting
Evansville, City Hall
Monday, August 12th , 6:00pm
AGENDA
1. Call to Order & Roll Call
2. Motion to approve Agenda as printed
3. Motion to waive the reading of the JULY 9TH , 2013 minutes & approve them as printed
4. Citizen appearances, relating to Park & Recreation, not listed agenda items
5. 2014 Budget Discussion – Dan Wietecha
6. 5 Year Park Plan Discussion
7. Chair’s report from committees/council –
Antes Fund: Projects & Possible Uses
8. Pool Report
9. Reports/Updates on projects or Maintenance
10. Old Business
11. New Business
12. Motion to adjourn
Next meeting Monday, September 9th, 2013 - 6:00 pm, City Hall
Friday, August 09, 2013
Common Council Meets Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Common Council
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, August 13, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
City Hall, 31 S. Madison Street, Evansville, WI
Agenda
1. Call to order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of Agenda
4. Motion to waive the reading of the minutes of the July 9, 2013, regular meeting and to approve them as presented.
5. Civility reminder.
6. Citizen appearances
7. Reports of Committees
A. Library Board Report
B. Youth Center Advisory Board Report
C. Finance and Labor Relations Committee Report
(1). Motion to accept the City and Water & Light bills as presented.
(2). Fiscal Overview.
a. Wietecha
b. Ehlers
(3). Motion to approve Resolution 2013-08, mending the City of Evansville’s Fee Schedule.
D. Plan Commission Report
(1). Motion to approve sale of parcel 6-27-684.4 with contingencies.
E. Public Safety Committee Report
F. Public Works Committee Report
G. Water & Light Committee Report
H. Economic Development Committee Report
(1). Motion to approve letter of support for Southern Wisconsin Agriculture Group (SWAG).
I. Redevelopment Authority Report
J. Parks and Recreation Board Report
K. Historic Preservation Commission Report
L. Fire District Report
M. Police Commission Report
N. Energy Independence Team Report
O. Board of Appeals Report
8. Unfinished Business.
A. Second reading and motion to adopt Ordinance 2013-05, Amending Chapter 122 of the Municipal Code, Relative to No Parking Zones. [Sponsors Jacobson and Fuchs].
9. Communications and Recommendations from the Mayor
A. Update: Madison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP) focus group.
10. Communications from the City Administrator
A. 2014 Budget: determine date for department/committee presentations in September.
B. Managing the Visionistas of Urban America article.
11. New Business
A. Discussion and possible motion regarding payment for traffic impact analysis for Southern Wisconsin Agriculture Group (SWAG) development.
12. Introduction of New Ordinances
13. Meeting Reminders:
A. Regular Meeting: Tuesday, Sept 10, 6:30 pm, City Hall.
B. Committee of the Whole Meeting: Saturday, Sept 28, 8:00 am, Creekside Place.
14. Adjournment
Sandra J. Decker, Mayor
Requests for persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the Clerk’s office by calling 882-2266 with as much advance notice as possible.
Please turn off all cell phones while the meeting is in session. Thank you.
School Scoop: 4K Investigative Meeting Report
School Scoop: 4K Investigative Meeting Report: The meeting to kick off the fourth 4K investigation in 6 years was a great disappointment for me. I keep going to these meetings hoping to s...
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