HomeMy WebLinkAboutCounty Board 08-19-03 8:30 a.m.
NOTICE OF MEETING AND AGENDA County Board Supervisor Group Picture and
ST. CROIX COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Communication's Van
TUESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2003 9:00 A.M.
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Clarence Malick
INVOCATION: Pastor Joanne P. Sorenson, Bethel Lutheran Church, Hudson
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
ROLL CALL
REVIEW OF AGENDA
CONSENT AGENDA
(Unless a supervisor requests separation of an item, all will be adopted in one motion)
1. Minutes of Previous Session
2. Date of NextMeeting- September 23, 2003
3. Mileage and Per Diem
PRESENTATION: None
APPOINTMENTS: Jeanette O'Connell to Council on Aging and the re- appointment of Ralph
Bader and Marguerite Sumner to the Council on Aging
ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR REPORT
1. Rezonings
a. Rezoning from Ag -II to Ag. Residential for Raymond Johnson, Town of Eau Galle
b. Rezoning from Ag to Ag -II for William Liddle, Town of Pleasant Valley
2. Resolution Appointing a Representative to Submit Grant Applications for the Recycling
Grants to Responsible Units and Recycling Efficiency Incentive Grant
3. Land Use Allocation for County Farm
4. Resolution Authorizing the St. Croix County Land and Water Conservation
Department to Apply for a Lakes Planning Grant
5. Resolution Opposing State Legislation Seeking to Bypass Local Authority on
Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations in Wisconsin
6. Goal Setting Follow -up Reports — Nursing Home, Delinquent Fines/Fees, Plans County
Land, Dealing with Sprawl, Fiscal Issues
7. *Resolution Opposed to State Imposed Levy Limit on Local Units of Government
8. *Resolution regarding Delinquent Tax Payments
9. *Resolution Supporting Senate Bill 15 which Created a Joint Survey Committee on State
Mandates and Funding
10. Resolution to Participate in Mutual Aid Agreement for Emergency Public Health
Preparedness
11. Resolution Authorizing Immediate Action in Event of Weather, Toxic Waste or
Terrorism Emergency
COMMITTEE AND BOARD REPORTS: Highway /Surveyor following Rezonings
*Lunch in Community Room during Emergency Communications & Emergency Management
reports
COUNTY CLERK'S REPORT OF CORRESPONDENCE AND REZONING REQUESTS
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
ADJOURNMENT
(Items may be taken in different order)
*Changes or Additions After Preliminary Agenda
* *Late Changes and Additions
ST. CROIX COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Regular Meeting August 19, 2003
Tours of the communication van and a group picture preceded the meeting. The meeting was called to
order by Chair Malick at 9:00 a.m. The invocation was given by Pastor Joanne P. Sorenson of Bethel
Lutheran Church in Hudson. Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Roll call: All 31 present.
Consent Agenda: Motion by Supr. Raymond, 2 nd by Supr. Speer to adopt the consent agenda including
the June 17, 2003 minutes, setting September 23, 2003 as the date of next meeting and mileage and per
diem totals for June 2003 of $10,270.02 and July 2003 of $6,895.29. Carried unanimously.
Appointments: Chair Malick announced the appointment of Jeanette O'Connell and re- appointment
of Ralph Bader and Marguerite Sumner to the Council on Aging.
Administrative Coordinator Report. Administrative Coordinator Chuck Whiting reported the Huber
project is moving along well. Departments are working on their budgets. The new software program
automatically puts personnel data into department budgets. That portion of the software has been
troublesome due to the coding aspects. Whiting thanked Computer Services Director Tom Boron,
Finance Director Michelle Pietrick, and Annette Massie and Janet Smith of the Computer Services
Department for their work with this software.
Whiting reported on the WisDoT project for Highway 64 improvements in New Richmond. WisDoT
must take 23.5 acres of the County farm for the new highway route. The County's appraiser has
indicated by putting in Highway 64 as proposed by WisDoT it cuts off the County Farm property from
County Road K. The appraiser feels this causes a decrease in value of the County farm property.
WisDoT increased their prospective payment to the County by $50,000 to $143,800. Whiting
indicated the County needs to attempt to conclude this by December 2003 with WisDoT either by
coming up with a price and conditions acceptable to the County or pursuing condemnation procedures.
Whiting reported the equalized valuations came out for the County last week. St. Croix County
percentage -wise had the largest increase in valuation in the state (nearly 17 %). This is an increase of
over $800,000,000 worth of value in the County. The Department of Administration population
estimate showed St. Croix County's population is over 70,000. Whiting indicated if we abide by the
language of the levy freeze the language allows St. Croix County to increase the levy the amount of
new construction growth in the County. St. Croix County's levy for 2003 is $18,860,794. An increase
in percentage of 6.663% would allow a levy of $20,111,265. The corresponding mill rate would be
$3.485. The Sales Tax yield from UW estimates will be under budget for this year. New levy
commitments for 2004 are estimated to be $390,957. Other budget commitments for 2004 include
personnel costs with an estimated increase of $1,630,837. Whiting indicated additional considerations
for 2004 include funds from the 2003 Building Fund which were not used because the amounts were
borrowed; Baldwin Com Center improvements; 2003 — 2004 union contracts not settled - $215,000 in
health insurance commitment to be determined for 2003, likely more for 2004; Nursing Home
remodeling, Baldwin Com Center, optical imaging; 2004 Shared Revenue amount is $727,798 or
$189,679 less than 2003; no Vine Street Assessment for 2003; $150,000 budgeted for 2003 for
potential litigation that is not needed for levying again in 2004; Interest earnings are down
considerably for 2003 — likely under budget by $100,000 or just over 25 %; Surplus applied, delinquent
fees and forfeitures yet to be determined.
Revised August 14, 2003
Created on August 7, 2003
1. Rezonings
a. Ordinance #636 (2003) Rezoning from Ag -II to Ag. Residential for Raymond Johnson,
Town of Eau Galle. Motion to approve by Supr. Jensen, 2 nd by Supr. Burri. Carried unanimously.
b. Ordinance #637 (2003) Rezoning from Ag. to Ag -II for William Liddle, Town of
Pleasant Valley. Motion to approve by Supr. Jensen, 2 nd by Supr. Anderson. Carried unanimously.
2. Resolution # 31 (2003) Resolution Appointing a Representative to Submit Grant Applications
for the Recycling Grants to Responsible Units and Recycling Efficiency Incentive Grant. Motion to
approve by Supr. Bethke, 2 nd by Supr. Raymond. Carried unanimously.
3. Land Use Allocation for County Farm. County Planner Dave Fodroczi reviewed St.
Croix County property located in New Richmond which surrounds the County Health Center complex
and indicated he was asked to lead an assessment of what the County Board might recommend for
ultimate land uses. Fodroczi indicated there was a special committee established to work with the
consultant to study County property. From that study and the County Board planning session, it was
agreed that this assessment would be done with the full Board. The focus is to be made on the
undeveloped portion of New Richmond property which is approximately 539 acres. Notable
exceptions are the State of Wisconsin property, all of the existing county facilities and the area for the
Highway 64 corridor which will pass through the southeast corner of the property. Most of the
property is in agricultural use right now. Discussion regarding parties interested in purchasing a
portion of the property, City of New Richmond's input, property tax generated per acre. Chair Malick
noted we should try to do percentages of use then calculate the market value and contribution to the tax
revenue stream. He added the City of New Richmond has deferred to the County as to how we want to
come up with land use preferences. Supr. Wentz indicated the County has noted it does not want to do
anything with the land yet. When New Richmond was doing its long range plan, the City approached
the County and asked if it wanted to become part of that long range plan by using their consultant,
Vierbicher Associates to assist the County with land uses. Supr. Wentz added there are two cemeteries
located on the land, it's the site of the old incinerator, which we are not really sure if it is a
contaminated site, a CIP (Pre - Release Center) is located near the land and the County will lose some of
its land to WisDoT. Supr. Wentz reminded the County Board it does not need to be on the fast track
and it needs to look at what could be there in 5 to 10 years. Supr. Raebel would like an inventory of all
County -owned land. Supr. Marzolf would like to include affordable housing for first time renters and
affordable housing for first time buyers and to keep senior citizens in mind when looking at potential
land use. Chair Malick reminded the Board if everyone chooses 100% agriculture or park there would
be no need for sewer and water. Supr. Raymond added Technology Park as another potential land use.
Supr. Standafer added at the time of sale the land use will be determined by the purchaser. The County
needs to have in mind those things that would enhance the value of the County land so it's more
beneficial for the purchaser to be the developer in the future. We should look at placement of roads
and services which increase the potentiality of the land and if the County can, in the meantime, get the
assistance of others to help share the infrastructure cost. Board members were given time to complete
the land use worksheets.
4. Resolution #32 (2003) Resolution Authorizing the St. Croix County Land and Water
Conservation Department to Apply for a Lakes Planning Grant. Motion to approve by Supr. Jensen,
2 nd by Supr. Raymond. Supr. Jensen indicated this resolution authorizes County Conservationist
Robert Heise to submit an application to the Department of Natural Resources for a $3,000 grant to
Revised August 14, 2003
Created on August 7, 2003
sponsor a conference like last year's relating to the protection and management of Lake St. Croix. No
County funds will be expended in regard to this conference. Carried unanimously.
5. Resolution #33 (2003) Resolution Opposing State Legislation Seeking to Bypass Local
Authority on Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations in Wisconsin. Motion to approve by Supr.
Jensen, 2 nd by Supr. Berenschot. Supr. Jensen indicated this resolution opposes legislation that
preempts county ordinances by removing local authority and control over concentrated animal feeding
operations. Carried unanimously.
6. Goal Setting Follow -up Reports.
a. Nursing Home. Supr. Berenschot reported deletion of W2 will be complete as of
October 1 They are in the process of downsizing the Nursing Home to 72 beds and as of today are
down to 75. In 2004 the County will lose one -half of the IGT funds and most likely all of the IGT
funds in 2005. They are in the process of redesigning the Nursing Home for dining purposes to
eliminate transporting of patients at meal times. The estimated cost for this redesign is approximately
$135,000. Supr. Wentz encouraged board members to visit the Nursing Home.
b. Delinquent Fines/Fees. Supr. Mehls reported on potential actions to recover delinquent
fines /forfeitures /fees of approximately 2.4 million dollars.
First, the tax intercept refund (State refunds only) is in place and as of August 1 st $109,000 has
been entered from 2002. Once entered this is an on -going review each year until settlement (no need
to re- enter). Approximately $5,000 has been collected. Second, Finance Director Michelle Pietrick is
working on information regarding an in -house ATM Machine. Third is On -Site Credit Card Option for
Traffic Violators. The pilot program brought in $790 @ 5% processing fee paid by violator. This was
not well received. The Finance Committee approved absorbing the 5% fee but since then the Clerk of
Court has negotiated with the First National Bank to lower this fee. Sheriff has agreed to start program
after Labor Day. Fourth is aggressive collection of two plus year's delinquent fines. A letter of intent
will be sent to the violator by Certified Mail with a follow up phone call to pay or set up a payment
plan not to exceed 90 days. If payment is not made, the violator's name and circumstances will be
published in an area newspaper. If no payment is received after publication, a warrant will be issued.
Other counties indicated this has worked. Supr. Olson thanked Supr. Mehls for his work and research
to bring this to the County Board's attention.
C. Plans for County Land. Supr. Swenson indicated one of the issues for the Finance
Committee is requests to purchase some county -owned land. The Finance Committee responds by
indicating the county -owned land is not for sale at this time. Supr. Swenson added even if there is a
plan, it does not necessarily mean the County will be selling its land. Supr. Raebel asked how to get an
inventory for county -owned land. Whiting indicated a map can be produced. Supr. Raebel requested
this be placed on the next agenda.
d. Dealing with Sprawl. Supr. Jensen indicated the key to sprawl is good planning. As of
August 12, 2003 the Zoning Department has received 75 more septic permits as of this time last year.
At the August 2003 Land and Water Conversation Committee meeting the committee approved 142
new lots and subdivisions for storm water and erosion plans. If approved by Zoning those lots will
bring approximately 426 more people of that, approximately 100 more children. Supr. Jensen reported
Homestead Park doubled what they expected to do in receipts -- $18,000 so far this year. Supr. Bernard
suggested the word "sprawl" be defined or dropped.
Revised August 14, 2003
Created on August 7, 2003
e. Fiscal Issues. Whiting reported on this during his Administrative Coordinator's report.
7. Resolution #34 (2003) Resolution Opposed to State Imposed Levy Limit on Local Units of
Government. Motion to approve by Supr. Swenson, 2 nd by Supr. Wentz. Swenson indicated Governor
Doyle vetoed an earlier bill and there has been a failure to override. There is a new Assembly Bill and
the Finance Committee wanted to bring this forward on the basis that St. Croix County objects to the
freeze and would not like to get this dictated to us from Madison, but rather be responsible to our
constituents for our own decisions. Supr. Rebholz said we need to put pressure on state
representatives because they are in favor of a tax freeze. Carried unanimously.
8. Resolution #35 (2003) Resolution Opposing Modifications to Property Tax Payment System.
Motion to approve by Supr. Swenson, 2 nd by Supr. Standafer. Supr. Swenson indicated the Finance
Committee saw no reason to get into administrative costs of implementing a five day grace period.
Carried unanimously.
9. Resolution #36 (2003) Resolution in Support for Senate Bill 15, which Creates a Joint Survey
Committee on State Mandates. Motion to approve by Supr. Swenson, 2 nd by Supr. Wentz. Supr.
Swenson indicated if the State wants the County to offer programs and services they need to be fully
funded. Carried unanimously.
10. Resolution #37 (2003) Resolution to Participate in Mutual Aid Agreement for Emergency
Public Health Preparedness. Motion to approve by Supr. Berenschot, 2 nd by Supr. Burri. Supr.
Berenschot reported this is to cooperate with nine counties for mutual aid for emergency programs.
Carried unanimously.
11. Resolution #38 (2003) Resolution Amending St. Croix County Emergency Operations Plan.
Motion to approve by Supr. Mehls, 2 nd by Supr. Gunderson. Mehls explained this simplifies the
procedure in declaring emergencies and spending County money until replaced by insurance,
declarations by the Governor, etc. The resolution states it is desirable under the section of our County
plan to indicate the Chair of the Board of Supervisors may commit personnel, equipment and supplies
and incur the expenses for such personnel, equipment and supplies on behalf of the County in an
emergency situation prior to an emergency meeting of the Board of Supervisors. Carried unanimously.
Department Reports: Highway /Surveyor Department Report Supr. King introduced Highway
Commissioner Tim Ramberg and County Surveyor Brian Halling. Halling provided a general
overview, current status, trends and future plans for the County Surveyor's Department.
Ramberg reported on the St. Croix County Highway Department's infrastructure, big picture, long
range plans, management tools, trends, revenue sources and future plans.
Emergency Communications & Emergency Management Department Reports. After the meeting a
demonstration of how an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) works in the event of a disaster
situation was given in the Norman "Ole" Anderson Community Room. Emergency Management
Director Jack Colvard provided an explanation with the assistance of various emergency personnel and
Supr. Mehls. Lunch was provided by the American Red Cross.
County Clerk's Report of Correspondence and Rezoning Requests. Clerk Campbell read for the
record the following applications filed for rezonement: Frederick and Ruth Anding, Town of Troy,
Ag -II to Agriculture or Ag/Residential and Mark and Melinda Lux, Town of Erin Prairie, Ag to Ag -II.
Revised August 14, 2003
Created on August 7, 2003
Announcements: Supr. Luckey noted St. Croix County is in receipt of resolutions from Wisconsin
Counties Association (WCA) which will be voted on at the convention in September. She added the
Administration Committee is distributing copies of those resolutions to the appropriate committees
based on the subject matter of the resolution. She asked the committees review the resolutions they
receive and if they have any comments about a particular resolution get back to the Administration
Committee by the first Tuesday in September or contact Chair Malick or Vice Chair Jacobson prior to
their departure for the convention in September.
Adjournment. Chair Malick adjourned the meeting at 12:05 p.m. The demonstration in the
Community Room lasted until 1:15.
Clarence Malick, Chair Cindy Campbell
St. Croix County Board of Supervisors St. Croix County Clerk
Revised August 14, 2003
Created on August 7, 2003