Meeting called to order, a minute or two after noon. Minutes approved, no Mario to give an update. No Bill Clingan to give an update. Hmmm . . . . bad start. Highlights and surprises are bolded.
Sparer says Mario sent information around by email, not available to the public. Mario walks in the door, with Clingan right behind. There was a variety of a emails shared among committee members, also not available to public. They say amendment 575 is the same as 700 on this issue. Mario says Mayor was personally involved in the lobbying. Thanks Schumacher in helping with the League of Municipalities position. Says as a result of combined efforts, the Joint Finance Committee passed the "vetoed" language, exemption for low income housing providers, there is safe harbor language and resolves the rent use issue. Retroactive to January 1, 2009. Overall, the big problem is resolved with this language. He says there is every expectation that the language will be passed and signed into law. "So, yesterday, was a really good day."
Sparer wants to make it explicit that the Governor will not veto. Mario confirms. Says it is a deal between Governor and both houses leadership.
Mario says, as he did in the email, they heard how active the Third Sector Housing group had been while visiting legislative offices. Also says Berceau was a champion and thanks Pocan and Miller as well.
Sparer asks about list of uses for rent use that are permitted, but he read it otherwise, that these is no list. Mario explains that it is true for senior housing, but not low income housing. Sparer looks confused and seems to disagree.
When will we see the final draft? He says some legislators didn't have it, but that he'd be surprised if there are any changes.
Schumacher says thanks for the kind words. Glad they didn't have to fight it out at the city level and around the state. He asks what this means now, practically speaking. Mario says all of third sector housing should maintain their tax exemption going forward. For the few that were involved in litigation, any claims that related to Jan 1, 2009 are moot. So, those who did pay would get reimbursed? He says yes for those who paid as of January 1. Schumacher clarifies that Turners are not covered. Assessor clarifies that the claims discussed at the council are not affected as they are from 2008. They clarified that the retroactive date doesn't cover those two.
Schumacher says that while he wasn't in favor of violating state statute, he's interested in looking at the 2008 cases that were before the council in retrospect if the law passes, even if they aren't included. He might not vote to deny their claim at this point.
The Council will be discussing this on Tuesday, because Attorney May won't be here when the referral back June 16th happens. Says Michael May will issue a report on that question. So they will discuss again on Tuesday at the Council.
Sparer asks when it is expected to be final. Mario says Joint Finance is done (as of 5:30 this am) and now the full legislature, starting with the assembly. Right now, seeing how the Joint Finance Committee finished in May, its not unreasonable that they will get this done by June 30.
Sparer asks about the tweaks - none of them in there, right? Yes says Mario. Rosenberg reads memo from Tim Radelet, that was in my blog this morning. Rosenberg explains that there are some issues still out there.
- He explains some non-profits will bump up against the 30 acre rule, if not now, soon. Schumacher clarifies that there might be a way to structure to create the firewalls? i.e. not have the same boards. Everyone agrees.
- Mixed income projects, market rate units will be taxed.
- 60%, versus 80% which units funded with HOME dollars will be impacted. Each unit has to qualify. Schumacher says the lawyers will figure it out. [I briefly consider going back into the legal field as it appears to be quite lucrative! :)]
- Additional reporting requirements
- Non-residential properties not addressed.
Rosenberg says that elderly housing, there are no income restrictions, no reporting requirements.
Retroactive date this year, elderly next year. Says much was addressed, but not everything. This is what we got, should be happy, but we need to be mindful that there are still issues.
Mario says this is a huge change. Thinks that the Plan B discussion shouldn't have as much promininence as before the legislation. So, not surprised if not much more effort goes into the review the Assessors office was making and so they are not going to continue to charge forward.
Sparer asks assessors office, if had any thought on how to deal with the reporting for this year since the deadline has passed, but reports already due. Kurth says that they haven't decided anything, but thinks they would require the reporting requirements to start in 2010. New exemptions for 2009 would be logical to get the reporting requirements for them. There is alot of paperwork to process and that its alot of work on the retirement side because of the formula, and they have to wait for Dept of Revenue to get them information. They aren't certain yet. Kurth is confirming with the boss as he's shooting from the hip.
Sparer asks about multi-income projects, any sense of what % of units will fall into that? Sparer says he assumes it will be a wild guess. Wilcox says its kinda standard that 20% are market rate and would be taxed. Assessor has no clue. Wilcox explains how it works, MDC and Commonwealth might be affected. [Mario seemed to think all the Third Sector folks were ok, but we're finding out that isn't true.]
Schumacher tries to figure out how this works if there are multiple buildings with multiple incomes. Everyone is guessing how that's going to work. It's clearly complicated on how to value them. Kurth says they will use income method to assess the values of the market rate units. Kurth explains that a percentage of the expenses will be used based on a market rate complex (not low income).
Hanson says that very close to getting values determined for those still exempt and that they are on hold until the legislation is signed. Kurth says once the law is passed the non-preofits should get some letters clarifying their status. Some denials will be recinded, some will get letters explaining what happened, non-residential properties will move forward.
Schumacher, asks if there is any benefit to sharing the data that they collected, since it is collected after alot of effort. Kurth says that he has learned alot about the programs. But the data isn't likely to be useful. Schumacher digs deeper, asking if the info isn't useful to the city, but could it be useful to the non-profits. Kurth says the data is there, won't be shredded, so if someone wants it, it should be there.
Schumacher talks about getting wife a shredder for paper with sensitive information and calls it a Cheney moment - Kurth says that he has those when he goes hunting, his brother walks behind him. [Wacky moment.]
They thank Mario and he leaves.
Bill Clingan called up to talk about Plan B. Wilcox says we still need a plan B. Rosenberg says its still and issue and we have to deal with 2008 cases, so Clingan goes back up to the table.
Clingan says that he can give them the "terrain". Not sure if he will report to the council on the 16th or if its necessary. Says its not useful to throw out explosive hypotheticals if we aren't going to go there. Some debate about if it might make us look good to show how bad it could have been. Clingan says the scope of the problem [He sort of randomly lists off some items]:
- 1700 affordable housing units
- Low income providers need to raise more money to pay the taxes
- Rent caps?
- Raise rents?
- Downsides of increased expenses for taxes are that they have to cut costs including services, maintenance, etc, hard to estimate that cost
- Potential that they might not pay taxes, run afoul of lenders and what would city do?
- What if the non-profits get out of the market?
- Biggest costs, what happens to people who would not be sheltered, shelter system, police calls, etc
- Sub-population for high risk people who likely can't be housed in other kinds of ways
- What do we do with HOME funds and properties ($26M of funds) Says they talked with HUD and who knows what they would do officially, but he was hoping that they would relax how they look at those things, but they would expect that to be paid back out of tax levy. [i.e. if this didn't get resolved and non-profits couldn't pay, the City would have to pay back $26M to the feds.]
Schumacher clarifies this is all hypothetical, but what would be the financial impact. Bill says that there were several numbers, an appeal process and it can drag out. So, they were not sure. They said that we would have to pay the money back. But everyone acknowledges
Solutions:
Operating costs. Doable but not easy.
Issue with if you put money in operating costs, you have less funds for housing units being produced. How to calculate the operating costs would be an issue, per provider? per unit? Go forward or backward when calculate. What if the amount we have on operating costs don't cover the tax. And then brings up the legal boogie man and the connection between the operating costs and the taxes.
Schumacher asks if we are talking all the taxes, or just the city portion. Clingan added the county as a potential funding stream. Says he doubts that MATC and Schools could contribute. Clingan says that if can't get hte money out of the entitites then maybe we have a pure policy position but the non-profit still has the problem and therefore so does the city.
Talks about legal issues again.
Talks about rent assistance program. He says procedurally doable. Not helpful to some of the providers because there is a rent cap and can't get money to them. Talks about legal issues again. How do you calculate it? He talks about a potential formula. He talks about mechanics, would CDA be in charge of this, what staff costs and administrative costs would there be? Wilcox says there is admin money with HOME
CDA role? initial indication from Olinger and Shimanski was there not keen interest in this [go figure], would CDA be in position, have capacity, have the money to take over properties? Or, could properties be turned over to CDA and then turned back for property management to the affordable housing provider?
Funding Sources:
HOME funds - says we get $1.6 - 1.9M per year in allocations.
Affordable Houinsg trust fund - need language change. Has $4M. If use it for this purpose can't do it without changes for how money is spent.
City Levy - Council and Mayor makes those decisions.
County - School District and MATC but not sure how that might happen.
That's the framework he is working in. He will have to take his cues from folks on how much further to push this. He says that Mario seems to think its a done deal, but not signed yet.
Schumacher says we need to be prudent and cautious and not raise expectations so that this doesn't become expected that the non-profits will get operating money. Schumacher asks if there is something that he has learned that may help us in the future?
Clingan says not around tax policy. What he says he has known but more convinced that city has a very key role in affordable housing, but much of the heavy lifting is done outwide these walls by housing providers and that we are attached at the hip. What we do affects them. And then, he says that bottom line is that low income individuals and families and we have to look at how they get housing in the community. If we don't keep the alignment with service providers, housing people and the city - these folks need the partnership to be strong and vital and the risk of this drove that home.
Wilcox says that Clingan still needs to look into Tim's analysis of the market rate rents. What resources will be there for those who are left out? Also wants to look at agencies that lease to non-profits.
Rosenberg says we aren't looking at Plan B, but remaining issues. 30 acre units, common control piece, who's at risk and what are the alternatives? 2008 property taxes? That doesn't reflect public policy at this point. The market rate issue. MDC can't raise the market rate units $150 and where will that be made up. The people affected will be 61 - 80% income.
Schumacher asks Bill to research this. If law is passed and has market rates and under 60% and if we give them quid pro quo money are we out of the legal issue. Can give money to people who are tax exempt. Funding is for tax exempt units, not the exempt ones.
Rosenberg says the last item is the annual application for all these properties and have to make sure it isn't too onerous and could be intrusive into indivisuals. Needs to reasonable meet the needs of the assessors office but not intrusive. Wilcox suggests using existing reporting for HOME dollars. It would be ideal to turn in reports they are already doing.
Sparer asks if anything else? Now labeling it Plan C.
Moved to adjourn. Rosenberg says wait, next meeting in July? If things look like they are going badly, they should meet sooner. Schumacher says housing diversity committee won't meet til end of August. (So much for the July 1 report and making this a priority!) This kind of work ought to also be information for that committee, so they don't have to start from scratch. They talk about joint meetings.
Now, they are adjourned.
[Sorry, only took about 15 minutes to clean up my typing, many typos likely in here!!]
Read more!
Friday, May 29, 2009
The People's Affordable Housing Vision
Or should that be hallucination at this point?
We've been talking about it for years . . . we've taken some steps forward and more lately, a few giant leaps backwards (property tax exemption and the death of inclusionary zoning). We have committees and task forces and workgroups and lots and lots of talking, but not much action. In fact, we don't even have a plan! The government doesn't have a plan. There is no plan as the economy crumbles, stimulus money gets gobbled up and nothing changes.
That's where you come in! We're creating a people's vision for affordable housing! That's right, no expertise needed! Just you, your brain and some common sense! What should the City of Madison look like? What is your vision for housing? What does this community need?
Please come and share your thoughts!! June 25th at 5:00 at the Downtown Public Library, save the date!! Read more!
We've been talking about it for years . . . we've taken some steps forward and more lately, a few giant leaps backwards (property tax exemption and the death of inclusionary zoning). We have committees and task forces and workgroups and lots and lots of talking, but not much action. In fact, we don't even have a plan! The government doesn't have a plan. There is no plan as the economy crumbles, stimulus money gets gobbled up and nothing changes.
That's where you come in! We're creating a people's vision for affordable housing! That's right, no expertise needed! Just you, your brain and some common sense! What should the City of Madison look like? What is your vision for housing? What does this community need?
Please come and share your thoughts!! June 25th at 5:00 at the Downtown Public Library, save the date!! Read more!
Friday Round Up
Due to the short week, lots of topics left to cover, so little time, so here's a recap of some important, some snarky, items I haven't had time to get to.
TASERS
In the important category. Anyone surprised that minorities, especially blacks, get tasered twice as much as whites compared to their arrest? Anyone? This article makes me sick to my stomach. I'd say its "worthy of closer study"!
CLEAN ELECTIONS
Also important, there was a first of its kind public hearing on overhauling Supreme Court races and election disclosure laws. Here's an update from the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign.
In response to my blog post about the non-public meeting held by Alder Schumacher, I got this list of questions among many:
"A BIT OF A DICK"
On the snarkier end of things, who's a bit of a dick? Last time I posted something unflattering (but true) about the dick in question, he posted this up at his house so that while sitting on my porch you can't help but see it - he happens to live kitty corner from me.
(Sorry, bad picture, but its a Maniaci sign that "the dick" made sure faced my house instead of the street during the election and reappeared in a more obvious taunt to me when he got mad at me, I think over something that I posted in my blog, but what exactly his anger towards me was about was unclear since I'm no longer his alder. He pretty much can't say anything civil to me.) I gotta say, I'm glad he didn't support me, I wouldn't want to win with supporters like that.
BUDGET GLOOM AND DOOM
I haven't forgotten or ignored the Mayor's latest budget gloom and doom reports over the past week or so, just haven't gotten to it yet. I'm a little reluctant to help spread "the fear" (best read while imagining a loud deep booming voice) without having more time to analyze what is being said and especially when we keep getting relatively good news.
WHO'S THE MEANY?
I had wondered why, for the first time in years, the forensics team didn't perform in front of the council. A blog reader explained:
That's as much snark as I should probably share for a Friday . . .enjoy the weekend!!
Read more!
TASERS
In the important category. Anyone surprised that minorities, especially blacks, get tasered twice as much as whites compared to their arrest? Anyone? This article makes me sick to my stomach. I'd say its "worthy of closer study"!
CLEAN ELECTIONS
Also important, there was a first of its kind public hearing on overhauling Supreme Court races and election disclosure laws. Here's an update from the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign.
At a rare joint public hearing held by Senate and Assembly committees in Eau Claire and Madison, citizens and advocacy groups were given a chance to put in their two cents on the Impartial Justice bill overhauling state Supreme Court elections and the Electioneering Disclosure bill closing the "issue ad" loophole in state law. To read the Democracy Campaign's testimony, go here.USELESS LOBBYING ORDINANCE
The hearing made history as it marked the first time a legislative public hearing was held simultaneously at the State Capitol and a satellite site via teleconferencing.
In response to my blog post about the non-public meeting held by Alder Schumacher, I got this list of questions among many:
I'd like to know too who hired Organizational Skills Associates, and how much that contract is worth. Was it large enough to trigger competitive bidding? If not, did anyone at least shop around? Who's even paying for the facilitator, and why was a facilitator needed, particularly if this was a meeting of a city committee which after all, does have a chair?Sadly, those questions should be answered in lobbying reports if the facilitator was paid for by the lobbyists. But I think we sufficiently gutted our lobbyist law so that we will never know because they generally don't have to report on lobbying on a piece of legislation. And only having reports every six months makes the information so much less accessible in a timely manner.
"A BIT OF A DICK"
On the snarkier end of things, who's a bit of a dick? Last time I posted something unflattering (but true) about the dick in question, he posted this up at his house so that while sitting on my porch you can't help but see it - he happens to live kitty corner from me.
(Sorry, bad picture, but its a Maniaci sign that "the dick" made sure faced my house instead of the street during the election and reappeared in a more obvious taunt to me when he got mad at me, I think over something that I posted in my blog, but what exactly his anger towards me was about was unclear since I'm no longer his alder. He pretty much can't say anything civil to me.) I gotta say, I'm glad he didn't support me, I wouldn't want to win with supporters like that.
BUDGET GLOOM AND DOOM
I haven't forgotten or ignored the Mayor's latest budget gloom and doom reports over the past week or so, just haven't gotten to it yet. I'm a little reluctant to help spread "the fear" (best read while imagining a loud deep booming voice) without having more time to analyze what is being said and especially when we keep getting relatively good news.
WHO'S THE MEANY?
I had wondered why, for the first time in years, the forensics team didn't perform in front of the council. A blog reader explained:
At the CC meeting on Tuesday, I was sitting with the Memorial Forensics team and Mark Clear came over just before the start and told them there wouldn't be time to give a presentation since the meeting was going to be so long. You want to talk about disappointed and ticked off! They had two people scheduled to do a joint presentation which was supposed to be very good. Oh well.Seriously? I wonder if this was his decision, or for whom (ok, I'm pretty sure I know) was he carrying water?
That's as much snark as I should probably share for a Friday . . .enjoy the weekend!!
Read more!
Property Tax Exemption Fix?
Well, kinda, mostly.
Yesterday afternoon, news spread throughout the community that the State was going to fix the property tax exemption in the omnibus bill, the Mayor congratulated himself and others before it even passed Joint Finance, let alone the legislature, and last night the omnibus package passed. Since its been less than 2 hours since it passed, I don't have a detailed analysis of what it means, but as of yesterday afternoon, an analysis, by those smarter and paying closer attention than me, resulted in these comments:
Yesterday afternoon, news spread throughout the community that the State was going to fix the property tax exemption in the omnibus bill, the Mayor congratulated himself and others before it even passed Joint Finance, let alone the legislature, and last night the omnibus package passed. Since its been less than 2 hours since it passed, I don't have a detailed analysis of what it means, but as of yesterday afternoon, an analysis, by those smarter and paying closer attention than me, resulted in these comments:
A. The motion is okay for low-income housing, but not as good as hoped. For low-income, it's basically the vetoed language except for #1 below and rent can be used for any purpose.It doesn't appear that this was discussed at all. So I think the above analysis stands, tho it was done on the fly. I guess the question now is, who will the City tax? And what do we do so that they don't take more cases to court to further whittle away at these protections? Read more!
1. The acreage limitation is increased from 10 to 30 acres, but extended to all low-income property under common control. This was the basic issue in the Future Madison case. This seems to change the law to side with the city's position and to reverse the court decision in the Attic Angel's Prairie Point case. So, if a corporation has several subsidiaries under common control, together they could own up to 30 acres instead of each one being able to own 30 acres. This won't affect most nonprofits, except to the extent some organizations choose to consolidate as MDC and MMHA did. Two separate organizations could own 60 acres, while one consolidated one could only own 30 acres.
2. Market rate units in a mixed income housing project will be fully taxed, instead of exempt as they have been in the past. This does not apply to WHEDA financed housing that exists today if owned by a nonprofit. It is unclear what will happen if the project is owned by an LLC that is wholly owned by a nonprofit.
3. To be exempt, single family houses and condominiums must be occupied by households at or below 60% county median income, instead of the 80% generally applicable in the past.
4. If several condominium units are owned by a nonprofit in a larger condominium project, apparently the units won't be considered together as a single project. So, none could be occupied by households above 60%. If a project consists of 2 buildings on separate parcels, generally they will apparently be considered as 2 separate projects instead of as one.
5. Annual reports must be filed with the assessor stating how many units in a project are low-income & providing other information. There's a fine if the report is not filed.
B. Property that is not residential is not addressed (Social Justice Center), nor is housing authority owned rental property.
C. The jackpot (as compared to the vetoed language) goes to elderly housing that is not low-income.
a. 30 acres exempt, but no expansion to property under common control.
b. If licensed, certified, or registered as a care and service residential facility, housing for people with SSI disability or hospice, then rent can be used for any purpose.. My understanding is that this covers most of the projects for the wealthy.
c. No requirement for annual reporting.
d. If the unit is of a very high value, then taxed. (Simplified, units in excess of 160% of the average value of residential property in the county.) The formula is long, but appears to allow exemption for most units. If 50% of the units are exempt, then all common space is exempt. If less than 50% of the units are exempt, then a percentage of the common space taxed.
D. Retroactively effective for low-income to 1/1/09. For elderly, effective 1/1/10.
Closing of the Catholic Multicultural Center
As news trickled through the community about the closing (today!) of the Catholic Multicultural Center, I was impressed by the quick responses of so many and the concern about what would happen to the people served by the Center. I'm blown away by the short notice and can't help but wonder what made Morlino make such a drastic decision with so little notice - is it just mean-spirited? Or unthoughtful? Or a fundraising ploy? What ever the case, I'm proud of the quick response by the community. There are already two events planned that you may want to attend if you are concerned:
The first one is a vigil scheduled for Saturday at noon.
The second is a meeting Wednesday morning:
Along with these two formal meetings people are suggesting many solutions on-line and trying to figure out how to keep the services available to the community and asking how to volunteer to help. Its refreshing to see such a wonderful caring response from the community, too bad the Catholic Diocese wasn't as thoughtful and caring. Read more!
The first one is a vigil scheduled for Saturday at noon.
Community Alert! To all members of Madison Community!
Community members organize a Vigil to ask Catholic Dioceses to keep Centro Guadalupe’s doors open.
THE VIGIL WILL BE THIS SATURDAY AT NOON AT CENTRO GUADALUPE
Community members and organizations concerned with the dramatic loss for the community will organize a vigil this coming Saturday at the entrance of the Centro Guadalupe (1862 Beld St) starting at noon. The purpose of the event is to stress the long and successful history that the center and the community share together and the need to keep Centro Guadalupe open.
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Madison announced yesterday the need to make a number of serious cutbacks. The changes will include the closing of the Diocese’s Catholic Multicultural Center. The center is one of the biggest support venues for immigrant families; literally thousands of families rely in one way or another on the legal, pantry, financial, education or advocacy services that the center provides. All thanks to the restless effort of the limited staff and the great and enthusiastic team of volunteers.
However, tomorrow at 4pm, the center will close forever. The history of Centro Guadalupe (CG) is the history of the Latino community as a whole. Many relate the current center to the legacy of OHAS, an organization in the 70s that started addressing the needs of the Latino community. Today, the center is a symbol of integration, support, and partnership for and from the Latino community.
The community is still absorbing the terrible news. Most social services providers agree that there is not one agency or a group of agencies that can pick up the number of services that will stop tomorrow. Especially in these economical times, the low income families that compose the vast majority of their clients are left in a vulnerable situation.
Organizations, activists, social workers, providers in the Latino community wonder the reason that made the Catholic Dioceses to act in such precipitated way “the decision come without give us an opportunity as a community to figure out how to keep this services running,” a long term social worker complains. Literally, closing the center in two days has left the community without time to work on a transition plan to address and protect hundreds of families that rely on the type of help that CG provides every day.
Many in the Latino community are asking for the opportunity of an open and sincere dialogue between the community and the Diocese to address the different options; “This should happen before closing the doors of the community center,” Alejandro R. explains, one of the thousands of clients that was helped by CG when he was homeless and “thanks to them I have medication to my medical disorder and a job, I am afraid that many people in my situation will not be so lucky if they close the center.”
LASUP, Latino Support Network has scheduled a special meeting open to the community for next Wednesday, June 3, from 9am to 11am at United Way to discuss the Catholic Diocese’s decision to close the Multicultural Center.
One of the ideas to save the Centro Guadalupe is to ask the Catholic Diocese to lend the building to a group of volunteers and organizations that would run the operation, initially on volunteer time until finding alternative funding. Another alternative is that the Dane County or Madison City administration would be willing to buy or rent the building to allow the programs to keep running.
The second is a meeting Wednesday morning:
We have scheduled a special meeting of La Sup for next Wednesday June 3 from 9am to 11am at United Way (Atwood Ave.) We will discuss the Catholic Dioceses decision to close the Multicultural Center. Members of the La Sup Exec Committee will facilitate the meeting. Please feel free to invite anybody who may be interested in this issue.
Along with these two formal meetings people are suggesting many solutions on-line and trying to figure out how to keep the services available to the community and asking how to volunteer to help. Its refreshing to see such a wonderful caring response from the community, too bad the Catholic Diocese wasn't as thoughtful and caring. Read more!
It's Water Main Flushing Season
Water Main Flushing plans beginning Thursday, May 28 (all flushing isRead more!
daytime unless otherwise noted). More info here.
North (Area 7) -- West of N Sherman Ave and North of MacPherson
East (Area 25) -- Between Cottage Grove Rd and S Thompson Dr from Vondron Rd to S Thompson Dr
West (Area 12) –- Mineral point Rd and Old Middleton Rd from Rosa Rd to Midvale Blvd
South (Area 18) -- Badger Rd to Post Rd from Todd Dr to Syene Rd
Near East (Area 24) NIGHTS(Sunday-Thurs) -- Between E Gorham St and E Washington Ave, from Brearly St to Pinckney St.
Questions: Shayne Santi, 261-9128
Flushing Information Line: 261-9178
DETAILS:
Area 7 (North): 5-7 runs per day
7052 Fremont-Almo-Pleasure
7053 Trailsway then south on Monterey Dr
7054 Fremont from Trailsway to Almo
7055 Calypso Rd and Carioca Ln
7056 Brentwood Pkwy-Wyldewood Dr-Wyldewood Cir
7057 Monterey Dr-Wyldewood Dr-north on Sheridan Dr
7058 Wyldewood Dr from Brentwood to Almo
7059 Arrowwood from Sheridan to Almo
7060 Pleasure Dr from Sheridan to Almo
7061 Sheridan Dr from Pleasure to Mac Pherson
Area 25 (East): 5-7 runs per day
25055 Irongate Dr - Forge Dr (Thompson to N of Woodglen)
25056 Rustic Woods - Anvil - Woodglen - Forge (Thompson to S of Irongate)
25056.1 Woodglen Ct
25057 Rustic Woods - Forge (Thompson to Thompson)
25058 Anvil Ln - Forge Dr (Woodglen to Thompson)
25059 Blacksmsith - Oxbow Bend (Thompson to N of bend in road)
25060 Oxbow Bend - Oxbow Ct (entire length)
25061 Wagon Trl
25061.1 Wagon Trl
25062 Irongate Ct
25063 Rustic Ridge Ct
25064 Forge Ct
25065 Rustic Woods Ct
25066 Ranch House Ln
25067 Bellows Cir
Area 12 (West): 4-6 runs per day
12208 Regent St. from s. Whitney Way to S. Rock Rd.
12209 Carillon Dr. from South Hill Dr. onto Trempealeau Trl. 12210 S Rock Rd From Trempealeau to Regent
12211 S Kenosha, Trempealeau, S Rock Rd
12212 S Kenosha from Regent to Trempealeau
12212.1 Carillon Dr
12212.2 South End of Carillon Dr
12213 Carillon Dr From Regent to Trempealeau
12214 S Rosa Rd and Anchorage
12215 Beach St and Cable Dr
12216 Regent from Wakeman to Rosa
12217 Rosa Rd from Regent to Crestwood
12218 N Rosa from Regent to Bordner
12219 Mark Twain St
12220 Rosa, T. Haute, Glen(T. Haute to Regent)
12221 Glen (Terre Haute to Tesla)
12222 Kenosha (Glen to Regent)
Area 18 (South) 4-6 runs per day
18077 Sequoia Trl - Cypress Way - W Badger Rd
18077.1 Cypress Way
18078 Magnolia Ln - Cypress Way - Huges Pl
18079 Hackberry Ln (Magnolia Ln - Sequoia Trail)
18079.1 Magnolia Cir
18080 S Park St - W Badger Rd
18080.1 S Park St - Badger Pkwy
18080.2 W Badger Rd (S Park St - Catalpa Rd)
18081 Union Pacific RR (Fish Hatchery Rd - W Badger Rd)
18082 W Badger Rd -Catalpa Rd
18083 Parker Pl - Fiedler Ln
18084 Fiedler Ln (S of W Badger Rd)
18085 Perry St - Ann St
18086 Fish Hatchery Rd - Ann St
18087 Petra Pl (W of Fish Hatchery Rd)
18087.1 Alrita Ct
18088 Emil St - W Beltline Hwy (S side Frontage Rd)
18088.1 Damon Rd (N of W Beltline Hwy)
18089 Damon Rd (S of Emil St)
18090 Applegate Rd ( Latham Dr - Greenway Cross)
18091 Applegate Ct - Greenway Cross
18092 Applegate Rd
Area 24 (near East) NIGHTS Sun-Thurs 10pm-6am
24532 E Washington Ave - Paterson to Ingersoll
24533 E Washington Ave - Paterson to Ingersoll
24534 S Brearly - E Washington to E Main
24548.2 E Washington Ave - Ingersoll to Thornton
24548.3 E Washington Ave - Dickinson to Thornton
24529 E Main St - S Paterson to S Blount
24530 S Livingston St - E Washington to E Main
24011 E Dayton St - Paterson to Blair
24701 Hancock St (E. Mifflin to E. Main)
24702 E Washington Ave (Hancock to Blair)
24703 S Hancock St (Main to John Nolen)
24704 E Washington Ave - S. Franklin St (Hancock to Wilson)
24027 E Wilson St - Hancock to Williamson
24028 N Franklin St - E Washington to E Johnson
24029 N Hancock St - E Mifflin to E Gorham
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Another week: Come, And Gone. 33 days left.
So, remember when the Mayor let Inclusionary Zoning die? He promised a committee that was charged to come up with new answers by May 1, later changed to July 1. The committee structure was introduced on November 5th and passed December 2. Clearly a media ploy to distract attention as the alder appointments were submitted January 27 and approved February 3rd. The citizen appointments were submitted March 31 and approved April 21st.
Well, this might sound familiar, but, the committee hasn't yet met. That's why I say it was nothing more than a media ploy. There was no serious intent to actually do anything, if there was, and they were serious about it, the appointments would have been rushed through and the committee would have met 6 - 8 times by now.
The committee was originally supposed to have been done by May 1, but it was changed to July 1. The first meeting was scheduled for last Friday (May 22) at 10:30 (Note to self, add #11 to the rules to exclude the public, plan the meeting the day before a three day weekend.) and then cancelled, with only 18 hours notice to the committee members, and essentially no notice to the public (the most it could have been would have been 2.5 hours if the clerk posted it at 8 am and the public looked at that schedule).
When the meeting was cancelled, this was the message that accompanied the cancellation:
Not that I really ever thought this committee would do anything, but I got a little hope when I saw the non-alder appointments. However, there has been alot of confusion about why create this committee when we already have the Housing Committee, the Affordability Subcommittee of the Housing Committee and the Housing Merger Committee. Why not just support their efforts and give them adequate staffing? So I was skeptical, but getting a little more hopeful. Now, given that its been 6 full months since the plan was hatched and they haven't even met a month after the original deadline for their report, I'm even more skeptical and less hopeful. Especially given that we had all this stimulus money to work with and could have been really innovative, but the opportunities are quickly slipping away.
For what it is worth, this is what the committee was formed to do:
This is all so painfully familiar. The City is going back to the good old days, where affordable housing is just off the radar screen. Hmmm . . . what to do?
Read more!
Well, this might sound familiar, but, the committee hasn't yet met. That's why I say it was nothing more than a media ploy. There was no serious intent to actually do anything, if there was, and they were serious about it, the appointments would have been rushed through and the committee would have met 6 - 8 times by now.
The committee was originally supposed to have been done by May 1, but it was changed to July 1. The first meeting was scheduled for last Friday (May 22) at 10:30 (Note to self, add #11 to the rules to exclude the public, plan the meeting the day before a three day weekend.) and then cancelled, with only 18 hours notice to the committee members, and essentially no notice to the public (the most it could have been would have been 2.5 hours if the clerk posted it at 8 am and the public looked at that schedule).
When the meeting was cancelled, this was the message that accompanied the cancellation:
NOTE: 5/21/09 - THIS MEETING IS BEING CANCELLED DUE TO SCHEDULING CONFLICTS. WE WILL TRY TO RESCHEDULE FOR SOMETIME NEXT WEEK. THANK YOU.However, as of this morning, there is no meeting scheduled. I suppose, technically, they have 24 hours, so there could still be a meeting tomorrow, but not even the Mayor's office would push it that far.
Not that I really ever thought this committee would do anything, but I got a little hope when I saw the non-alder appointments. However, there has been alot of confusion about why create this committee when we already have the Housing Committee, the Affordability Subcommittee of the Housing Committee and the Housing Merger Committee. Why not just support their efforts and give them adequate staffing? So I was skeptical, but getting a little more hopeful. Now, given that its been 6 full months since the plan was hatched and they haven't even met a month after the original deadline for their report, I'm even more skeptical and less hopeful. Especially given that we had all this stimulus money to work with and could have been really innovative, but the opportunities are quickly slipping away.
For what it is worth, this is what the committee was formed to do:
WHEREAS, Inclusionary Zoning has been in effect in the City of Madison since Feb. 14, 2004; andI don't know if they'll ever get to do their work, its clearly needed, but the efforts seem disingenuous, duplicative and still are currently non-existant. I wonder if they will ever come up with anything. Meanwhile, remember the REALTORS plan?
WHEREAS, the original intent of Inclusionary Zoning was to further the availability of the full range of housing choices for families of all income levels in all areas of the City of Madison. A full range of housing options promotes diverse and thriving neighborhoods, schools, and communities. It also aids the recruitment and retention of local businesses and their workforce, which are essential to the economic welfare of the City. This purpose can be accomplished by providing dwelling units for families with annual incomes less than the area median income; and
WHEREAS, the promise and goals of IZ remain achievable and a must if the City is to grow economically and culturally;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Common Council hereby create an Ad Hoc Housing Diversity Planning Committee charged with developing recommendations to further the availability of the full range of housing choices for families of all income levels in all areas of the City of Madison; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Committee shall consist of nine members,
including the names of five alderpersons and four other members from the Housing
Committee and one member from the Inclusionary Zoning Oversight Committee.
Members shall be appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Common Council.
BE IT STILL FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Committee is charged to engage with
stakeholders to:
* Develop recommendations to create and promote a diversity of housing choices for
families and households of all income levels in all areas of the City of Madison.
* Establish a process and timeline to implement recommendations.
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Committee will target a completion of its report, including recommendations to the Common Council and the Mayor's Office, by July 1, 2009.
This is all so painfully familiar. The City is going back to the good old days, where affordable housing is just off the radar screen. Hmmm . . . what to do?
Read more!
Will Regional Planning be Emasculated?
That's a question before the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission (CARPC) when they reconsider a Mazomanie development plan. Here's some background on the issue:
1. Email the folks who can play a role in preventing this from happening.
- CARPC - info@CapitalAreaRPC.org
- Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk - falk@co.dane.wi.us
- Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz - mayor@cityofmadison.com
- Dane County Towns Association - dctasecretary@hotmail.com
2. Put June 11th on your calendar and attend and speak on this matter
This issue may not directly affect you, but in the future, similar decisions could be made about farmland throughout Dane County, including the the Northeast Neighborhood of Fitchburg and Lake Waubesa. And it may mean the difference from having a Capital Area Regional Planning Commission that has teeth and one that is largely a rubber stamp. Here's some more info from a broad coalition of environmental groups.
Background of the Mazomanie development proposalWhat can you do?
You may be aware that a year ago, the Village of Mazomanie applied to CARPC for an USA [Urban Service Area - the extension of Water, and Stormwater Sewer Services] extension on 187 acres of farmland, located at the junction of US Hwy 14 and State Hwy 78, approximately 1.5 miles east of the village. What distinguishes this USA request from all the others is that it is the first time that CARPC has refused to recommend a USA request for approval to Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources (DNR). As a result of the refusal, the village – encouraged by their developer -- then appealed to the DNR to grant its own approval for the development without the benefit of CARPC support. Instead of making a decision, the DNR sent Mazomanie’s USA request back to CARPC for reconsideration, telling it that it can ONLY consider water quality when making its next decision. (See attached DNR letter)
Will CARPC lose its power to plan regionally?
The direction in which Dane County will turn in regard to sprawl, environmental protection and smart sustainable growth hinges on the outcome of the Mazomanie case. If CARPC caves into pressure from the developer, the village and their allies, and approves the Village of Mazomanie's USA request on the second round, that agency will never be able again to say “no” to any other proposal for sprawl, no matter how destructive such a proposal might be from an environmental and smart growth perspective. The agency will render itself ineffective as a protector of the county’s water quality, open spaces and farmland. Smart and sustainable growth will become a dead letter before it even is given a chance to work.
Although most of us do not live near the proposed development, this case is relevant to all of us who live in this county. Just remember, as Mazomanie goes, so goes the rest of Dane County.
Description of the Proposed Development
The developer, Hawthorne and Stone LLC, proposes to build 488 housing units, a supermarket, a liquor store and a strip mall in the amendment area. What is proposed here is a self-contained suburban island, separated from the mother village by about 1.5 miles and surrounded by cornfields and marshlands. This development was not planned in response to any community needs. It was superimposed on both the Village of Mazomanie and the Town of Mazomanie by the developer, who apparently saw it as an opportunity to buy cheap land with easily accessible, low-cost financing widely available to developers prior to the recent mortgage industry fiasco.
Ironically, the Village of Mazomanie seeks the USA extension for an area where the most essential urban services are either insufficient or non-existent. State Hwy 14, which is to serve the proposed development as the main arterial connector to the village and to Madison, is already congested during peak traffic hours. The Village of Mazomanie has no stormwater management utility, nor any kind of public transportation for disabled or senior citizens.
Environmental Impact
The proposed development would affect three natural coldwater streams and several wetland areas located in or adjacent to the amendment area: Black Earth Creek, Halfway Prairie Creek and Wendt Creek. The affected segment of Black Earth Creek supports both warm and coldwater aquatic communities. Halfway Prairie and Wendt Creeks were degraded over the years and are now classified as forage fisheries. The wetlands present in the area are remnants of once more extensive wetland network located along the creeks in the low lying areas. Up to this day nearby residents of rural homes report seeing sand hill cranes wading through swampy terrain. All three creeks and surrounding wetlands retain their restorative potential.
History of Mazomanie’s USA application Process
In May 2008, the Village of Mazomanie applied to CARPC for the USA extension.
In August 2008, after two public hearings, CARPC turned down Mazomanie’s USA amendment request on a 7 to 4 vote.
In October 2008, the village went directly to the DNR to ask for the USA extension approval.
In March 2009, the DNR sent Mazomanie’s USA request back to CARPC for a second consideration. The DNR stated that CARPC criteria for USA and LSA (limited service area) reviews, which were adopted 2-28-08 after the completion of a full public hearing process and approved by the DNR 12-13-08, were not to be applied any longer. Instead the DNR's letter insists that only narrowly-defined water quality criteria should be used when considering Mazomanie’s USA application. (The DNR letter is attached.)
For more info, email info@CapitalAreaRPC.org and ask for the new Mazomanie application packet to be emailed to you.
1. Email the folks who can play a role in preventing this from happening.
- CARPC - info@CapitalAreaRPC.org
- Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk - falk@co.dane.wi.us
- Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz - mayor@cityofmadison.com
- Dane County Towns Association - dctasecretary@hotmail.com
2. Put June 11th on your calendar and attend and speak on this matter
This issue may not directly affect you, but in the future, similar decisions could be made about farmland throughout Dane County, including the the Northeast Neighborhood of Fitchburg and Lake Waubesa. And it may mean the difference from having a Capital Area Regional Planning Commission that has teeth and one that is largely a rubber stamp. Here's some more info from a broad coalition of environmental groups.
Dear Friends,Read more!
This is an appeal to all of you who are alarmed by the speed at which thousands of acres of Dane County’s farmland have been paved and shingled over, previously wild and natural areas despoiled, many creeks and wetlands turned into drainage ditches for cookie-cutter suburbs that emerged in the wake of seemingly unstoppable destruction. If you don't have time now to read this entire email, please scroll down to the 2 tasks (write letters and attend the hearing) that you can do to stop this destruction.
We have a fair chance to control this process here in Dane County by stopping approval for an important request to the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission (CARPC) to approve an urban service area (USA) extension for a large proposed development near the Village of Mazomanie. It’s the second attempt by the Village, (the CARPC turned them down in August) and the WI Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has instructed the CARPC that this time, they may only decide based on (narrowly defined) water quality issues. Background information is contained at the end of this email alert.
Your help is needed to save our county's land and water
The CARPC hearing on Mazomanie’s USA request is scheduled for June 11, 2009. At this time the developer and their law firm (which is also the legal representative of the village) are working very hard to get the majority of the CARPC votes. We need to work even harder. So please help us.
Spread the word about the intended urban sprawl project in the cornfields and wetlands east of Mazomanie. Tell your like-minded friends about this outrage. Contact us if you want more information.
Task #1: E-mail a letter to CARPC, Kathleen Falk, the Mayor of Madison, and the Dane County Towns Association. Tell them why you want the CARPC to be able to make planning decisions based on more than narrowly-defined water quality issues. Tell them that you want a CARPC whose decisions cannot be overturned by political appointees in the DNR. Your own words about what you want to see saved will make the most impact. Please send us a copy of your letter at protectourlandsandwater@gmail.com.
Support the CARPC's right to say NO to poorly planned development.
Task #2: Please attend the one and only public hearing on the Mazomanie application. It will be at 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 11, at the City County Bldg, 210 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Room 201, Madison. You can register in opposition to the Mazomanie application and speak, or just register and be there in solidarity for this worthy cause.
Clear your calendar and bring all of your friends to pack the meeting room with supporters of clean water, responsible land use, and preservation of farmland!
In appreciation for all that you have done and will do to save our county,
Capital Region Advocacy Network for Environmental Sustainability (CRANES)
Jon Becker, President, Friends of Cherokee Marsh
Don Hammes, Chair, Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, Wetlands Committee
Phyllis Hasbrouck, West Waubesa Preservation Coalition
John Hendrick, Dane County Supervisor
Libby Lewis
Peter McKeever, Attorney, Garvey McNeil and Associates
Harry Read
Caryl Terrell, Sierra Club - Four Lakes Group
Connie Threinen, League of Women Voters of Dane County
Robbie Webber, Former Madison Alder
Gary Werner, Convener, Dane County Environmental Smart Growth, and President of CRANES
Parks Clean Up Opportunities
The first one is coming on Saturday . . .
On Saturday, May 30th there will be an opening kick off event for park clean ups sponsored by Americorp and the ARC-WI. I have attached the flyer for all the park clean ups. There will be T shirts and lunch provided. Also will have materials help with clean up. Would love for neighbors to join in the event. Please pass on if you canRead more!
Pat LeFevour, ARC-WI
Volunteer Partnerships – AmeriCorps and People First
Summer Parks Clean Up Schedule
Saturday May 30th - (Rain Date will be Saturday June 6th)
Tenney Park – Kick off event – free t-shirts and lunch!
Meet in the parking lot next to the shelter for Park Clean-up/Picnic/Food drive
10:30am – 12noon
Friday June 19th
James Madison Park meet next to basketball court/parking lot for Clean-up
10:30 – 12 noon
Sunday July 5th
Warner Park – meet in the parking lot area near the shelter for Clean up after Rhythm and Booms
9 am -11 am
Friday July 17th
Tenney Beach Area – meet in the parking lot for beach Clean-up
10:30 am - 12
Saturday August 1st
Elver Park - meet at the shelter area for Park Clean-up
10:30 am -12
Saturday August 22nd
Tenney Park – end of the summer Park Clean-up/Celebration/Food drive/picnic
10:30 am – 12 noon
Will Solar Work for You?
The city is offering free assessments of if a solar system will work for you. One friend I know had a system installed and payed less than $2 for electricity the first (not quite full) month she had the system.
If you want to know if a solar system would work for you, you can use the FREE service of the solar agent. The agent was hired by the City of Madison to evaluate the solar options on your property. He also will, if you wish, help you find a contractor.Read more!
All residents, businesses and non-profit organization with property in the City of Madison are eligible for this FREE service.
For assistance from the Solar Agent please contact (608) 243-0586 or email solar@cityofmadison.com
Tour de (Chicken) Coops
Ah, my favorite neighborhood tour is coming up . . . mark your calendars!
Read more!
Can’t afford a trip to France this summer to view the Tour de France?
You can afford the Tour de (Chicken) Coops - a free self-guided tour of chicken coops in the Tenney-Lapham Neighborhood.
Saturday, June 27 from
1:00-4:00 p.m.
A brochure with map will be available the day of the tour at 917 E. Dayton Street.
Held rain or shine.
Questions? Contact Bob Shaw at 255-3486
Read more!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Propert Tax Exemption Meeting Friday
So, the awaited report from staff will be discussed . . . you know, the one where the City says they can't do anything, its the state's problem.
The meeting is Friday:
There's no attachments but they were supposed to have another meeting when Bill Clingan had made progress with his report on what the city's "Plan B" options were if the state didn't fix this.
Should be an enlightening meeting. Will the City step up to solve this problem? Or get dragged along kicking and screaming?
Read more!
The meeting is Friday:
Friday, May 29, 2009This wasn't out on Monday with the rest of the weekly schedule.
12:00 PM PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION SUBCOMMITTEE OF THE HOUSING COMMITTEE ROOM LL-110 MMB
There's no attachments but they were supposed to have another meeting when Bill Clingan had made progress with his report on what the city's "Plan B" options were if the state didn't fix this.
Should be an enlightening meeting. Will the City step up to solve this problem? Or get dragged along kicking and screaming?
Read more!
Help Paint A Mural!
Help paint a new Willy St mural!
Williamson Street Art Center announces public painting days at Wil - Mar Neighborhood Center.
You are invited to help paint a mural celebrating: “The History of Willy Street in the 70’s – Changing the World through Art”
Join us Sunday July 5 and/or Sunday July 12 at Wil - Mar Neighborhood Center, 957 Jenifer St from 1pm – 5pm
This project celebrates the history of Willy Street in the 70’s, when it was primarily a working class industrial area, a place where artists and social activists found cheap rent and minimal restriction on their artistic and political activity. The story of how Madison’s “skid row” became the “hippest” area in town is the story of community renewal that came about because of the value of the human activity that occurred here. This is the local history of a generation whose hallmark was hope.
This new community mural will be installed on the side of the Social Justice Center, 1202 Williamson St in the fall.
Call Sharon Kilfoy at 658-3736 for more information. Read more!
Williamson Street Art Center announces public painting days at Wil - Mar Neighborhood Center.
You are invited to help paint a mural celebrating: “The History of Willy Street in the 70’s – Changing the World through Art”
Join us Sunday July 5 and/or Sunday July 12 at Wil - Mar Neighborhood Center, 957 Jenifer St from 1pm – 5pm
This project celebrates the history of Willy Street in the 70’s, when it was primarily a working class industrial area, a place where artists and social activists found cheap rent and minimal restriction on their artistic and political activity. The story of how Madison’s “skid row” became the “hippest” area in town is the story of community renewal that came about because of the value of the human activity that occurred here. This is the local history of a generation whose hallmark was hope.
This new community mural will be installed on the side of the Social Justice Center, 1202 Williamson St in the fall.
Call Sharon Kilfoy at 658-3736 for more information. Read more!
Lost Your Job, Worried About Your Housing?
Here's a meeting you might want to check out!
Letter of InvitationRead more!
“We’re Looking for Work” Town Meeting #3
Friday, May 29th, 4:50 to 9:15 PM
Stoughton High School Cafetorium, 600 Lincoln, Stoughton, WI
Have you or a friend been laid-off, downsized, or part-timed & now you’re looking for work?
We have organized a THIRD town meeting for workers who have lost their jobs, been part-timed or are underemployed. Workers and their partners living in Stoughton, southern Dane, northern Rock counties or other communities are invited to attend.
This free town meeting begins with a meal for families. The event brings together workers and their partners in a friendly environment to learn about health care resources, job search resources, and stretching your budget in hard times. Registration is free. Call early!
To register call (608) 873-2612
Persons at the last meeting, May 5th, said they are most interested in learning how to stay in their home or apartment. Thus the May 29th meeting will provide this workshop:
“Fighting to Stay in Your Home or Apartment During Hard Times”
Part I Developing a Family Budget to Help You Negotiate with Your Banker or Landlord
Part II Foreclosure & Eviction Law -- When & Where to Seek Legal Advice & How to Re-negotiate Rent Payments
Part III Federal Mortgage Adjustment Programs & How to Re-negotiate Mortgage Payments
Part IV Might “House Sharing” Be a Partial Solution for You?
We ask you to do these things:
1. Call the above number. Register now. Tell them how many people will be joining you. We invite you, your partner and any children you may wish to bring along. We will not be providing sitter services but some families bring small children and that is fine. Some bring their older children. That is good because it helps them to understand the situation your family is in and they see that many other families are in the same situation.
2. Call, invite and bring along any relatives, friends or former co-workers who have been laid off. Invite their partners also. Ask them to call the registration number or you call it for them with their names and telephone numbers, address, etc.
3. If you attended one of the first two meetings, please bring your three-ring resource manual to the meeting.
The town meeting is sponsored by the Stoughton Job Networking and Family Support Group and the Stoughton Chapter of the WI Alliance of Retired Americans and is co-sponsored by the Stoughton Area Resource Team, Inc. (START), American Federation of Teachers-WI, Unity Church of Madison, AFT-WI Retirees Chapter and other organizations
Lastly, with regard to the meeting topic avoiding foreclosure or eviction, it is regretful but many workers presently unemployed may be unemployed for 6 months or longer during this recession/depression. It is critical that your family avoid foreclosure/eviction. There are now programs to help you avoid these situations but, like everything else these days, the issues are complex and you have to study the issues. So please register today (the line is 24/7) and together we will learn about how we can keep our families in our homes during these most difficult times.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call Organizing Committee member Buzz Davis at 608-873-4886.
Thank you and we look forward to seeing you and your family Friday, May 29th at the Stoughton high school. 600 Lincoln Ave., at 4:50 PM!
Learn about Downtown Architecture
People have been building in downtown Madison for more than 170 years. Jim Draeger, deputy preservation officer with the Wisconsin Historical Society, helps us recognize architectural styles, introduces us to notable architects, and helps us think in new ways about the places where we live and work.
7 p.m. Thursday, May 28
Gates of Heaven in James Madison Park, 300 E. Gorham St.
Capitol Neighborhoods Programs
Read more!
7 p.m. Thursday, May 28
Gates of Heaven in James Madison Park, 300 E. Gorham St.
Capitol Neighborhoods Programs
Read more!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Last Public Hearing: Racial Disparities & Criminal Justice System
The last hearing is tomorrow night! Your input is needed!
Dane County Task Force on Racial Disparities
May 27th, 2009
5-7 pm
Warner Park Community Center, 1625 Northport Drive, Madison.
Dane County Task Force on Racial Disparities
May 27th, 2009
5-7 pm
Warner Park Community Center, 1625 Northport Drive, Madison.
For Immediate ReleaseRead more!
DATE: May 19, 2009
Contacts: Celia Jackson and Laurie Mlatawou, Co-Chairs, Dane County Task Force on Racial Disparities in the Criminal Justice System
• Celia Jackson (608) 266-1623
• Laurie Mlatawou (608) 345-5710 or (608) 255-9455
• Colleen Clark-Bernhardt, Office of Equal Opportunity (608) 266-3022
Dane County Task Force Holds Last Public Hearing
Warner Park Community Center is the site for the final listening session
The Dane County Task Force on Racial Disparities in the Criminal Justice System will hold its last public hearing--designed as a listening session—at the Warner Park Community Center, 1625 Northport Drive, on May 27, 2009. The Task Force is made up of Dane County citizens working to identify strategies to reduce the racial disparities in Dane County’s criminal justice system, and is staffed by the Dane County Office of Equal Opportunity. Upon hearing from many residents in the first three hearings, the Task Force hopes to continue to hear from a large, diverse group at Warner Park.
Wisconsin has consistently ranked near the top in the nation in its rate in its disproportionate representation of people of color in the criminal justice system. Dane County’s disparities are among the highest in Wisconsin. Racial disparities occur in the number of arrests, cases charged, sentences and probation and parole revocations. The task force is made up of individuals from law enforcement, community-based organizations, corrections, and the courts.
The Task Force has heard many of Dane County residents speak about their personal, and occasionally organizational, account of racial disparity. Each public hearing was highlighted by a high level public interest, comments and involvement.
The Public Hearings will be a part of the data gathering process the Task Force is currently achieving. The Dane County Task Force on Racial Disparities in the Criminal Justice System’s vision is to “recommend evidence-based best practices to eliminate racial disparities in the adult criminal justice system of Dane County”. Public involvement is critical to this vision.
The public is encouraged to attend the final public hearing--an opportunity to listen, speak and learn about racial disparities in the Dane County Criminal Justice System. Come share your thoughts and experiences with the Dane County Task Force.
May 27, 2009 5-7 pm Warner Park Community Center
1625 Northport Drive, Madison, WI
Spanish translation will be provided.
The Light Week Ahead
I slept in, sorry its late . . . it's a short week, no meetings on Friday, so I'm stretching a bit here.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
4:30 PM WATER UTILITY BOARD 119 E OLIN AVE
- Lotsa reports, I'm sure there are many items of interest in here, but it doesn't look like there are any decisions being made.
5:00 PM PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE/MOTOR VEHICLE COMMISSION ROOM 260 MMB
- Losing 4 members of the Commission.
- 6:00 public hearing on pedestiran and bike improvements for the capital budget.
6:30 PM ALCOHOL LICENSE REVIEW COMMITTEE ROOM 300 MMB
- Non-renewals hearings for Madison Avenue, Johnny O's and Ram Head.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
10:00 AM STREET USE STAFF TEAM ROOM 108 CCB
5:00 PM URBAN DESIGN COMMISSION ROOM LL-110 MMB
- Landscaping and parking lots
- Urban Lawns
Thursday, May 28, 2009
5:00 PM COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT COMMISSION ROOM 300 MMB
- Amending the annual plan so we can get stimulus dollars.
I had heard that the cancelled Housing Diversity Committee was meeting this week, but they weren't on the weekly schedule when I looked.
Read more!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
4:30 PM WATER UTILITY BOARD 119 E OLIN AVE
- Lotsa reports, I'm sure there are many items of interest in here, but it doesn't look like there are any decisions being made.
5:00 PM PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE/MOTOR VEHICLE COMMISSION ROOM 260 MMB
- Losing 4 members of the Commission.
- 6:00 public hearing on pedestiran and bike improvements for the capital budget.
6:30 PM ALCOHOL LICENSE REVIEW COMMITTEE ROOM 300 MMB
- Non-renewals hearings for Madison Avenue, Johnny O's and Ram Head.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
10:00 AM STREET USE STAFF TEAM ROOM 108 CCB
5:00 PM URBAN DESIGN COMMISSION ROOM LL-110 MMB
- Landscaping and parking lots
- Urban Lawns
Thursday, May 28, 2009
5:00 PM COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT COMMISSION ROOM 300 MMB
- Amending the annual plan so we can get stimulus dollars.
I had heard that the cancelled Housing Diversity Committee was meeting this week, but they weren't on the weekly schedule when I looked.
Read more!
Friday, May 22, 2009
County Board Recap - Final
I had to tivo it as I had a meeting I had to be at for work, but here it is. The agenda packet is here if you want to find materials.
Meeting was called to order.
A. ROLL CALL - Excused Supervisor Martz
Chairperson Scott McDonell said that there were 6 people absent, Martz, Vedder, O'Laughlin and deFelice were excused, 31 present, but I couldn't hear who wasn't there. [The clerk doesn't repeat the responses when he calls the roll and the voices are off mic so you can't hear them on tv.]
1. Prayer/Inspirational Message - Supervisor Solberg
She read a short "When one door closes, another on opens" quote.
2. Pledge of Allegiance - Supervisor Solberg
B. SPECIAL MATTERS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Res 1, 09-10 - Celebrating Maureen Arcand's 80th Birthday
Postponed til June 4, no objection
2. Res 22, 09-10 - Congratulating the 2009 James Madison Memorial High School Spartans Forensics Team
Ferrell read a resolution and they listened to one of the winners do a 5 minute radio broadcast of Onion news stories. [It was really good, the council missed out. I wonder why - its the first time in years they didn't get a presentation. I really, really hope someone didn't ask them not to!]
3. Res 23, 09-10 - Recognizing the Graduating Seniors on the Dane County Youth Board
Veldran reads resolution, makes some remarks and some remarks made by staff and students on the youth board.
4. Res 24, 09-10 - Recognizing May 17 - 24 2009 as Emergency Medical Services Week in Dane County.
Salov reads the resolution from his seat instead of the front of the room. Motion moved by Salov, seconded by Rusk. Salov asks supervisors to find a way to appreciate emergency medical services employees in their districts.
5. Announcements
Hesselbein announces Bratfest and thanks supervisors who will be working at the Bratfest and invites others to join them.
Hesselbein also announces July 15 - 19 is the Dane County Fair, with Thursday being Military Appreciation Day and Saturday being Safety Day.
Solberg passes around around resolution to exempt 24-7 positions from furlough so that they don't pay more in overtime.
Schmidt invites people to Monona Memorial Day Parade
Salov has a resolution to buy final piece of a park to finish park between Cambridge to Rockdale. Missed the name of the park and I'm woefully uninformed. Talks about the well renowned bike trails.
Levin has a resolution to start energy efficiency revolving loan program, hopefully get block grants to start the program to promote energy efficiency and solar installation for properties.
Hesselbein made a mistake and forgot to mention Levin also helping with Bratfest.
C. APPROVAL OF BILLS & ACCOUNTS
1. Claims Recommended for Approval
Moved by Stoebig, seconded by Vogel, passes on voice vote without comment.
2. Cleaims Recommended for Denial
Moved by Vogel, seconded by Schlicht, passes on a voice vote without comment.
D. APPROVAL OF PROCEEDINGS
Rescind and Amend County Board Proceedings of Sept 18, 2008 (Correcting the Text of Sub 1 to Ord Amdt 49, 07-08)
Moved by Kostelic, seconded by [ . . . um . . . what's his name . . .] Gau. [Nice "brain freeze". Not often you see McDonell lose his composure! :P]
Hendrick asks how they can rescind an action, the Corp Council says it is only the minutes and that is why they can do it.
Passes on voice vote.
There is a short discussion about what the motion was to rescind and amend, or if there needs to be further discussion.
E. CONSENT CALENDAR 1. Res 5, 09-10 - Accepting Funds for Repairs on Willow Island at Alliant Energy Center (Adopt) 2. Res 6, 09-10 - Award of Contract for Window Replacement on Juvenile Shelter Home (Adopt) 3. Res 12, 09-10 - Authorizing Employment Agreement for Director of the Department of Administration (Travis Myren) (Adopt)
There were no requests for separation. The motion was before them as noted above and passed on a voice vote.
[Don't ask me where F. is, it just isn't on the agenda, throws me off when they keep the lettering system for their categories of items on the agenda and don't say that is "not applicable" or something to indicate there are no items for action in that category.]
G. REPORTS ON ZONING PETITIONS a. Map of Dane County b. Summary of Grant as Modified Petitions 1. Petition 9915 - Town of Cross Plains - Fred Dillet (Deny) 2. Petition 10031 - Town of Vermont - Fern Frame (Grant) 3. Petition 10034 - Town of Medina - John Stuntebeck (Grant as Modified) 4. Petition 10035 - Town of Cottage Grove - Homburg Farms LLC (Grant as Modified)
It wasn't 7:30 yet, so they moved on to Item H & I, and didn't want to move on to J & K as they would take longer, and the clocks in the room all said different things and they decided it was ok to move on to G. The checks his phone, says its 7:29 and if there is no objection, they would just take up item G now. No objections. There are no requests for separations on the items and they pass on a voice vote. They then went to J.
H. ORDINANCES 1. Ord. Amdt. 39, 08-09 - Amending Chapter 2, 11, 12 and 14, Regarding Erosion Control Provisions (Adopt with Amdts)
No discussion and it passes on a voice vote.
I. AWARD OF CONTRACTS 1. Res 296, 08-09 - Award of Contract for Tenant Improvements 1st and 3rd Floor - CCB (Adopt Sub 1)
No discussion, passes on voice vote.
2. Res 4, 09-10 - Aware of Contract for Electrician Labor at the Alliant Energy Center (Adopt Sub 1.)
No discussion, passes on voice vote.
3. Res 8, 09-10 - Award of Contract for Pit Toilets at Scheidegger & McCarthy County Parks (Adopt Sub 1)
No discussion, passes on voice vote.
J. RESOLUTIONS 1. Res 202, 08-09 - Urging the State to Adopt a Comprehensive Approach to Control Lake Levels (Adopt/Adopt with Amdt.)
He says the Executive Committee recommends adoption and if they want to take up the amendments, someone would have to move them.
Wheeler says one of her constituents who does his research says Lake Mendota was 5 feet lower than it is today and that it should be at least 6 inches lower.
Schmidt says this isn't setting lake levels but managing lake levels. She moves the EANR amendments, seconded by Hulsey. She says there are three reasons for the amendment. One is that they need to have a collaborative approach to deal with run off and intense stormwater events so multiple communities need to come together. Second is that she wants the lakes managed as a system. Third everyone has a role to play. We need to understand watershed and we should use rain gardens and rain barrels.
Hulsey thanks Schmidt for pushing ahead with this. There were record damages caused by flooding last year. Does commercial for Mayor and County Exec and DNR Secretary short term plans and will be doing long term plans. Says we need to realize we are at the mercy of the weather. Says Stoughton will be opening damn and that will lessen water backing up. Talks about process (scientific this year) and says that public process will start next year. Has copies of short term plans if people want them.
Hendrick speaks against amendment. Says we need to work with DNR and neighboring communities, but says that this amendment is meaningless. The time to lower the lake levels is when it is not raining, just like the time to fix your roof is when it is not raining. Can't wait for it to rain to lower the lake levels. Also Lake Mendota needs to be maintained at the legal minimums. Someone needs to change county policy to maintain the lake at the minimums when possible.
Ripp says it doesn't matter what they do because when they have been letting the water out of the system at the end as fast as they can and the system is overwhelmed by Mother Nature.
Bruskewitz agrees it is bigger than them. Says they need the minimums because of fish spawning, the water table level is rising and the changes in the more extreme weather. She says this is a start, its complicated. She wants public to know that they might not be able to control the flooding. Wants aggressive public education process.
Hulsey agrees with Bruskewitz. Points out she lives on the lakes, was on committee and this is complex. Says if lower Lake Mendota by 6 inches it raises Lake Monona by 1.5 feet. Has sympathy with Hendricks comment on lowering lakes in advance instead of when rains, but did analysis. Says 1/3 of the years are drier and if start out lower they'd have mud flats and boats couldn't get in the water and fish won't survive. Says if interested, you should be on the next DNR task force. Urges people to support EANR amendment.
Amendment passes on a voice vote.
Final passes on a roll call vote 31 - 1 with 5 absences. Hendrick was the one no. Absences were Stubbs, Vedder, deFelice, Martz and O'Laughlin.
2. *Res 305, 08-09 - Taking Actions to Safeguard Sensitive Information on the Register of Deeds Website (Adopt with Amdts)
PUBLIC TESTIMONY
David Styles - Federal Technologies is the Vendor for the software for the Register of Deeds. Explains in 2005 the prohibited Social Security Numbers from being on documents, but many, many documents on file from before then. Says they have a remote access tool on the internet for banks, mortgage companies, title and insurance companies. He says they plan to reduce access to those documents until they mask the Social Security Numbers. Says they can't physically remove the numbers from the document. He says there is an automated and manual process they are going through. He talks about documents that are a priority. He says meanwhile, people will have to come to the Register of Deeds to get the info.
Mike McDonnell - Land Title Association - Says they are as good looking as they are on tv. Says that their association is made of up 250 title insurance agents, underwriters and attorneys. Said members were nervous about on paragraph. Says that it is in the best interest of the public to keep the records open on-line.
Craig Haskins - Executive Vice President of Nightbury Title(?) - says one of largest in state, 130 employees, 12 offices, 1 in Dane County and opening a second. Explains they are hired by the banks to provide information for the title insurance companies. Says for the past 10 years its been great. Dane County is top in the state for making the info available and they work in all 72 counties. He says they have quick access and can charge less as a result. Asks them to consider carving out the industry that has a specific purpose. He notes they pretty much already have the social security number of the people they are looking up. He says the alternative is to pretty much have 2 - 3 people in the Register of Deeds office continuously and the prices will go up.
QUESTIONS FOR SPEAKERS
Bruskewitz asks Haskins [Note, the mic system was acting funny, just like at the council meetings] how they are authorized to get the info on line? What are the requirements to get the info? He says that their company is 155 years old. He says they enter an agreement, sign an on-line access agreement. Says he helped develop a trusted submitter document. He says that if the county wanted to add to the agreement that you have to be legitimate and here's what you can and can't do with the info, they'd gladly sign.
Bruskewitz asks if what they penalty if you breach that agreement. He says Congress passed a law and there is a FTC ruling that they have to plan to protect the confidential information for all kinds of crazy situations, like if the roof blows off. Says he doesn't remember penalties, they paid a lawyer lots of money to make sure they did it right.
Bruskewitz speaks to the issue by saying she appreciates the need for access and wants to maintain it if there is a legitimate public purpose and she believes this is and she doesn't want to make it hard on the business.
Miles moves sub 1. Bruskewitz seconded. Says that sub 1 is at their desk, as well as another document with all the minutes from committees to show why they recommended the amendments. Says ZLR had postponed their decision because they understood that the state was working on a fix, but met right before the meeting since this was on the agenda and they recommended the following changes:
- In the third to the last resolved clause, strike number 4 because it relates to 3, which was previously struck
- Add language in 3 & 4 (?) that has Register of Deeds continue what they are doing to mask the numbers and work with the state legislature for further fixes.
- Add 5 that requires a report back to the ZLR committee.
Stoebig asks for a friendly amendment to fix some language. McDonnell says they can administratively do that.
Bruskewitz says that she was aware of this issue 2 years ago, Register of Deeds didn't have the resources that they needed to fix it. Says it is County Board responsibility to give them the IT resources they need. Says with budget coming up, they need to look at how to use IT to protect the public and save money.
Hampton moves to add penetration testing of the website to the project. Says the problem isn't with the registered users, the problem is with the unregistered users [hackers]. Rusk seconds.
Ferrell asks when they should do the testing, if they should wait til the project is over? And who will do it.
Hampton says those are technical questions for the IT people. She says penetration testing should always be going on.
Scott says it is routine at the state.
Carries on a voice vote.
K. ITEMS REQUIRING A TWO THIRDS MAJORITY FOR PASSAGE
Item one was separated, items 2 & 3 passed by with no objection to it being unanimous.
2. Res 10, 09-10 - Authorizing Acceptance of Funds for Homeland Security/Information Sharing Initiative (Adopt)
3. Res 11, 09-10 - Authorizing Acceptance of Funds for Homeland Security Law Enforcement Specialty Training (Adopt)
1. Ord Amdt 41, 08-09 - Amending Chapter 62, Regarding Fees Charged by the Sheriff for Seizure of Property of Evictions (Adopt)
PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Kristin Zehner - Says this is a minimal amount of money and wonders why it is being passed along to people who are broke. She says that by passing along the the costs, it just makes people rely on human services more. She says it doesn't make sense. She says she represents mobile home owners, and when they are evicted, the whole home has to be moved for $5 - 10K and no one will take the homes if they are more than 10 years old. Says many elderly on Social Security are having their rents increased and are expecting more increases and people are choosing between paying rent and leaving a few hundred dollars for monthly expenses. Wants to know what county or city is going to do with these folks. She says this is a double whammy for people on the edge. The mic went out at the end, but I think I got the gist of it.
Alex Gillis - Says there are a large number of low income people, especially single parents, are on the edge of homelessness. He says there is a 90 day lifetime limit on the homeless shelters. He says adding this money to the debts they already have is pushing them further to homelessness. He talks about immigrant families losing their jobs and getting their hours cut in the hospitality industry by 40 - 50% which is $200 - 300 per paycheck. He thinks that that the fee should be capped. He said that this could add $200 - 400 to the bill and that's alot of money to people. He says they should reconsider it and bring in people who know the impacts of this ordinance (social service providers, etc) or it should be capped.
Motion is adoption
QUESTIONS
Bayrd asks the Corporation Council if the fee will go to the landlords? Asks to explain how the fee gets passed on to tenant and what the likelihood is. She noted she was a sponsor and voted for it twice in committee, but she had more questions.
Corporation Counsel says that it will be assessed against the landlord. Says the landlord can ask the court to reward fees and costs. Says she did evictions in a past life and many judges don't award costs as a general rule, but they could. It's up to the individual judges.
Bayrd asks if they can say in the ordinance that the fee cannot be passed along to the tenant, but she said she knew the question was likely no.
Corporation Counsel says that they can't pass an ordinance telling the courts what to do, only the state can.
Rusk asks the sheriff to talk about the fee justification analysis and what this is about.
Sheriff explains that this allows the actual costs of the deputy sheriff to be paid. He says these are costs for the sheriff to stand by during foreclosure court order, attachment or replevin. He says they could be at the scene for 3 - 4 or 8 - 12 hours. They stand by to preserve the peace while the individual is removed and the property is packed. He says it is not unusual for it to be 8 hours.
The sheriff also explained that by state law, they can only charge $10 per hour, but it costs $52.46 per hour to send a Deputy 3. However, they have been charging $40 per hour for years, apparently in violation of the state law. He says that they can amend this, pass it as is, or if they do nothing, it will go back to $10/hr.
Hendrick urges people to vote not. Says he checked Statute 799 and it says that (6)(b) automatically assesses these costs to the tenant if they lose the eviction. The judge doesn't decide, it is an administrative procedure done by the clerk.
Richmond asks how many officers go out to calls. The Sheriff says that usually 1, but send 2 if there is an emotional situaiton. Richmond asks how he decides to send 2 and he says it is based on how people respond when they serve the 24 hour notice to be out. Some have no issues, other there are security and safety issues.
Bruskewitz says landlords are loathe to evict cuz it costs too much. Says landlord has to pay if the tenant doesn't. Says if they don't leave on their own it can get dicey. Landlords don't like to evict. She says the poor won't pay and the landlord ends up paying the cost. Its a cost of doing business which is passed along to the other tenants. She says it is very rare the landlords get paid back.
Willet is visibly angry and says that is sounds like landlords are evil. He talks about buying house 30 years ago and having to evict the tenant that wouldn't leave. He says that he had no money for eviction but had to pay it. Says sheriff did a great job and that the court decides if the tenant has to pay the fees. He says they should let the judge decide. [He obviously didn't understand what Hendrick explained about the law!]
Rusk says this is a hard one. Says the sheriff tried to live within his budget, unlike the last one. But his budget isn't balanced and that it is the policy of the county to charge actual costs for user fees if they are used by a small number of people. He says that he's chair of PP&J and it is his responsiblity to make sure that they stay within the budget, so that there aren't transfers so the money doesn't get taken out of human services. If we do early intervention, people won't end up in criminal justice system. Understands its a bad economy and its only $6,000, but now we have new information we need to drop down to $10 and there will be further loses. He says there are 6 - 9 people who do nothing but service of papers, and its state statute that requires them to do it and it is $60,000 - 70,000 per person. Says he is conflicted, as many are, but this has been through the process twice. That both committees passed it overwhelmingly, twice.
ROLL CALL
AYE: Solberg, Stoebig, Veldran, Vogel, Wheeler, Wiganowski, Willett, Bruskewitz, DeSmidt, Downing, Ferrell, Gau, Hampton, Hulsey, Jensen, Kostelic, Levin, Miles, Opitz, Ripp, Rusk, Schlicht, Schmidt, Hesselbein
NO: Bayrd, Erickson, Hendrick, Manning, Matano, Richmond, Salov, McDonell
ABSENT: Stubbs, Vedder, deFelice, Martz, O'Loughlin
Motion fails 24 - 8, McDonell explains that they need 25 votes to be 2/3 to pass.
M. SUCH OTHER BUSINESS AS THE COUNTY BOARD IS AUTHORIZED TO CONDUCT BY LAW
None.
N. ADJOURNMENT - Until Thursday, June 4, 2009, 7:00 or call of the chair.
Moved by Opitz, seconded by Hesslebein
* Contingent on Committee action week of May 18, 2009
And with that, they had wrapped it up in 1.5 hours.
Read more!
Meeting was called to order.
A. ROLL CALL - Excused Supervisor Martz
Chairperson Scott McDonell said that there were 6 people absent, Martz, Vedder, O'Laughlin and deFelice were excused, 31 present, but I couldn't hear who wasn't there. [The clerk doesn't repeat the responses when he calls the roll and the voices are off mic so you can't hear them on tv.]
1. Prayer/Inspirational Message - Supervisor Solberg
She read a short "When one door closes, another on opens" quote.
2. Pledge of Allegiance - Supervisor Solberg
B. SPECIAL MATTERS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Res 1, 09-10 - Celebrating Maureen Arcand's 80th Birthday
Postponed til June 4, no objection
2. Res 22, 09-10 - Congratulating the 2009 James Madison Memorial High School Spartans Forensics Team
Ferrell read a resolution and they listened to one of the winners do a 5 minute radio broadcast of Onion news stories. [It was really good, the council missed out. I wonder why - its the first time in years they didn't get a presentation. I really, really hope someone didn't ask them not to!]
3. Res 23, 09-10 - Recognizing the Graduating Seniors on the Dane County Youth Board
Veldran reads resolution, makes some remarks and some remarks made by staff and students on the youth board.
4. Res 24, 09-10 - Recognizing May 17 - 24 2009 as Emergency Medical Services Week in Dane County.
Salov reads the resolution from his seat instead of the front of the room. Motion moved by Salov, seconded by Rusk. Salov asks supervisors to find a way to appreciate emergency medical services employees in their districts.
5. Announcements
Hesselbein announces Bratfest and thanks supervisors who will be working at the Bratfest and invites others to join them.
Hesselbein also announces July 15 - 19 is the Dane County Fair, with Thursday being Military Appreciation Day and Saturday being Safety Day.
Solberg passes around around resolution to exempt 24-7 positions from furlough so that they don't pay more in overtime.
Schmidt invites people to Monona Memorial Day Parade
Salov has a resolution to buy final piece of a park to finish park between Cambridge to Rockdale. Missed the name of the park and I'm woefully uninformed. Talks about the well renowned bike trails.
Levin has a resolution to start energy efficiency revolving loan program, hopefully get block grants to start the program to promote energy efficiency and solar installation for properties.
Hesselbein made a mistake and forgot to mention Levin also helping with Bratfest.
C. APPROVAL OF BILLS & ACCOUNTS
1. Claims Recommended for Approval
Moved by Stoebig, seconded by Vogel, passes on voice vote without comment.
2. Cleaims Recommended for Denial
Moved by Vogel, seconded by Schlicht, passes on a voice vote without comment.
D. APPROVAL OF PROCEEDINGS
Rescind and Amend County Board Proceedings of Sept 18, 2008 (Correcting the Text of Sub 1 to Ord Amdt 49, 07-08)
Moved by Kostelic, seconded by [ . . . um . . . what's his name . . .] Gau. [Nice "brain freeze". Not often you see McDonell lose his composure! :P]
Hendrick asks how they can rescind an action, the Corp Council says it is only the minutes and that is why they can do it.
Passes on voice vote.
There is a short discussion about what the motion was to rescind and amend, or if there needs to be further discussion.
E. CONSENT CALENDAR 1. Res 5, 09-10 - Accepting Funds for Repairs on Willow Island at Alliant Energy Center (Adopt) 2. Res 6, 09-10 - Award of Contract for Window Replacement on Juvenile Shelter Home (Adopt) 3. Res 12, 09-10 - Authorizing Employment Agreement for Director of the Department of Administration (Travis Myren) (Adopt)
There were no requests for separation. The motion was before them as noted above and passed on a voice vote.
[Don't ask me where F. is, it just isn't on the agenda, throws me off when they keep the lettering system for their categories of items on the agenda and don't say that is "not applicable" or something to indicate there are no items for action in that category.]
G. REPORTS ON ZONING PETITIONS a. Map of Dane County b. Summary of Grant as Modified Petitions 1. Petition 9915 - Town of Cross Plains - Fred Dillet (Deny) 2. Petition 10031 - Town of Vermont - Fern Frame (Grant) 3. Petition 10034 - Town of Medina - John Stuntebeck (Grant as Modified) 4. Petition 10035 - Town of Cottage Grove - Homburg Farms LLC (Grant as Modified)
It wasn't 7:30 yet, so they moved on to Item H & I, and didn't want to move on to J & K as they would take longer, and the clocks in the room all said different things and they decided it was ok to move on to G. The checks his phone, says its 7:29 and if there is no objection, they would just take up item G now. No objections. There are no requests for separations on the items and they pass on a voice vote. They then went to J.
H. ORDINANCES 1. Ord. Amdt. 39, 08-09 - Amending Chapter 2, 11, 12 and 14, Regarding Erosion Control Provisions (Adopt with Amdts)
No discussion and it passes on a voice vote.
I. AWARD OF CONTRACTS 1. Res 296, 08-09 - Award of Contract for Tenant Improvements 1st and 3rd Floor - CCB (Adopt Sub 1)
No discussion, passes on voice vote.
2. Res 4, 09-10 - Aware of Contract for Electrician Labor at the Alliant Energy Center (Adopt Sub 1.)
No discussion, passes on voice vote.
3. Res 8, 09-10 - Award of Contract for Pit Toilets at Scheidegger & McCarthy County Parks (Adopt Sub 1)
No discussion, passes on voice vote.
J. RESOLUTIONS 1. Res 202, 08-09 - Urging the State to Adopt a Comprehensive Approach to Control Lake Levels (Adopt/Adopt with Amdt.)
He says the Executive Committee recommends adoption and if they want to take up the amendments, someone would have to move them.
Wheeler says one of her constituents who does his research says Lake Mendota was 5 feet lower than it is today and that it should be at least 6 inches lower.
Schmidt says this isn't setting lake levels but managing lake levels. She moves the EANR amendments, seconded by Hulsey. She says there are three reasons for the amendment. One is that they need to have a collaborative approach to deal with run off and intense stormwater events so multiple communities need to come together. Second is that she wants the lakes managed as a system. Third everyone has a role to play. We need to understand watershed and we should use rain gardens and rain barrels.
Hulsey thanks Schmidt for pushing ahead with this. There were record damages caused by flooding last year. Does commercial for Mayor and County Exec and DNR Secretary short term plans and will be doing long term plans. Says we need to realize we are at the mercy of the weather. Says Stoughton will be opening damn and that will lessen water backing up. Talks about process (scientific this year) and says that public process will start next year. Has copies of short term plans if people want them.
Hendrick speaks against amendment. Says we need to work with DNR and neighboring communities, but says that this amendment is meaningless. The time to lower the lake levels is when it is not raining, just like the time to fix your roof is when it is not raining. Can't wait for it to rain to lower the lake levels. Also Lake Mendota needs to be maintained at the legal minimums. Someone needs to change county policy to maintain the lake at the minimums when possible.
Ripp says it doesn't matter what they do because when they have been letting the water out of the system at the end as fast as they can and the system is overwhelmed by Mother Nature.
Bruskewitz agrees it is bigger than them. Says they need the minimums because of fish spawning, the water table level is rising and the changes in the more extreme weather. She says this is a start, its complicated. She wants public to know that they might not be able to control the flooding. Wants aggressive public education process.
Hulsey agrees with Bruskewitz. Points out she lives on the lakes, was on committee and this is complex. Says if lower Lake Mendota by 6 inches it raises Lake Monona by 1.5 feet. Has sympathy with Hendricks comment on lowering lakes in advance instead of when rains, but did analysis. Says 1/3 of the years are drier and if start out lower they'd have mud flats and boats couldn't get in the water and fish won't survive. Says if interested, you should be on the next DNR task force. Urges people to support EANR amendment.
Amendment passes on a voice vote.
Final passes on a roll call vote 31 - 1 with 5 absences. Hendrick was the one no. Absences were Stubbs, Vedder, deFelice, Martz and O'Laughlin.
2. *Res 305, 08-09 - Taking Actions to Safeguard Sensitive Information on the Register of Deeds Website (Adopt with Amdts)
PUBLIC TESTIMONY
David Styles - Federal Technologies is the Vendor for the software for the Register of Deeds. Explains in 2005 the prohibited Social Security Numbers from being on documents, but many, many documents on file from before then. Says they have a remote access tool on the internet for banks, mortgage companies, title and insurance companies. He says they plan to reduce access to those documents until they mask the Social Security Numbers. Says they can't physically remove the numbers from the document. He says there is an automated and manual process they are going through. He talks about documents that are a priority. He says meanwhile, people will have to come to the Register of Deeds to get the info.
Mike McDonnell - Land Title Association - Says they are as good looking as they are on tv. Says that their association is made of up 250 title insurance agents, underwriters and attorneys. Said members were nervous about on paragraph. Says that it is in the best interest of the public to keep the records open on-line.
Craig Haskins - Executive Vice President of Nightbury Title(?) - says one of largest in state, 130 employees, 12 offices, 1 in Dane County and opening a second. Explains they are hired by the banks to provide information for the title insurance companies. Says for the past 10 years its been great. Dane County is top in the state for making the info available and they work in all 72 counties. He says they have quick access and can charge less as a result. Asks them to consider carving out the industry that has a specific purpose. He notes they pretty much already have the social security number of the people they are looking up. He says the alternative is to pretty much have 2 - 3 people in the Register of Deeds office continuously and the prices will go up.
QUESTIONS FOR SPEAKERS
Bruskewitz asks Haskins [Note, the mic system was acting funny, just like at the council meetings] how they are authorized to get the info on line? What are the requirements to get the info? He says that their company is 155 years old. He says they enter an agreement, sign an on-line access agreement. Says he helped develop a trusted submitter document. He says that if the county wanted to add to the agreement that you have to be legitimate and here's what you can and can't do with the info, they'd gladly sign.
Bruskewitz asks if what they penalty if you breach that agreement. He says Congress passed a law and there is a FTC ruling that they have to plan to protect the confidential information for all kinds of crazy situations, like if the roof blows off. Says he doesn't remember penalties, they paid a lawyer lots of money to make sure they did it right.
Bruskewitz speaks to the issue by saying she appreciates the need for access and wants to maintain it if there is a legitimate public purpose and she believes this is and she doesn't want to make it hard on the business.
Miles moves sub 1. Bruskewitz seconded. Says that sub 1 is at their desk, as well as another document with all the minutes from committees to show why they recommended the amendments. Says ZLR had postponed their decision because they understood that the state was working on a fix, but met right before the meeting since this was on the agenda and they recommended the following changes:
- In the third to the last resolved clause, strike number 4 because it relates to 3, which was previously struck
- Add language in 3 & 4 (?) that has Register of Deeds continue what they are doing to mask the numbers and work with the state legislature for further fixes.
- Add 5 that requires a report back to the ZLR committee.
Stoebig asks for a friendly amendment to fix some language. McDonnell says they can administratively do that.
Bruskewitz says that she was aware of this issue 2 years ago, Register of Deeds didn't have the resources that they needed to fix it. Says it is County Board responsibility to give them the IT resources they need. Says with budget coming up, they need to look at how to use IT to protect the public and save money.
Hampton moves to add penetration testing of the website to the project. Says the problem isn't with the registered users, the problem is with the unregistered users [hackers]. Rusk seconds.
Ferrell asks when they should do the testing, if they should wait til the project is over? And who will do it.
Hampton says those are technical questions for the IT people. She says penetration testing should always be going on.
Scott says it is routine at the state.
Carries on a voice vote.
K. ITEMS REQUIRING A TWO THIRDS MAJORITY FOR PASSAGE
Item one was separated, items 2 & 3 passed by with no objection to it being unanimous.
2. Res 10, 09-10 - Authorizing Acceptance of Funds for Homeland Security/Information Sharing Initiative (Adopt)
3. Res 11, 09-10 - Authorizing Acceptance of Funds for Homeland Security Law Enforcement Specialty Training (Adopt)
1. Ord Amdt 41, 08-09 - Amending Chapter 62, Regarding Fees Charged by the Sheriff for Seizure of Property of Evictions (Adopt)
PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Kristin Zehner - Says this is a minimal amount of money and wonders why it is being passed along to people who are broke. She says that by passing along the the costs, it just makes people rely on human services more. She says it doesn't make sense. She says she represents mobile home owners, and when they are evicted, the whole home has to be moved for $5 - 10K and no one will take the homes if they are more than 10 years old. Says many elderly on Social Security are having their rents increased and are expecting more increases and people are choosing between paying rent and leaving a few hundred dollars for monthly expenses. Wants to know what county or city is going to do with these folks. She says this is a double whammy for people on the edge. The mic went out at the end, but I think I got the gist of it.
Alex Gillis - Says there are a large number of low income people, especially single parents, are on the edge of homelessness. He says there is a 90 day lifetime limit on the homeless shelters. He says adding this money to the debts they already have is pushing them further to homelessness. He talks about immigrant families losing their jobs and getting their hours cut in the hospitality industry by 40 - 50% which is $200 - 300 per paycheck. He thinks that that the fee should be capped. He said that this could add $200 - 400 to the bill and that's alot of money to people. He says they should reconsider it and bring in people who know the impacts of this ordinance (social service providers, etc) or it should be capped.
Motion is adoption
QUESTIONS
Bayrd asks the Corporation Council if the fee will go to the landlords? Asks to explain how the fee gets passed on to tenant and what the likelihood is. She noted she was a sponsor and voted for it twice in committee, but she had more questions.
Corporation Counsel says that it will be assessed against the landlord. Says the landlord can ask the court to reward fees and costs. Says she did evictions in a past life and many judges don't award costs as a general rule, but they could. It's up to the individual judges.
Bayrd asks if they can say in the ordinance that the fee cannot be passed along to the tenant, but she said she knew the question was likely no.
Corporation Counsel says that they can't pass an ordinance telling the courts what to do, only the state can.
Rusk asks the sheriff to talk about the fee justification analysis and what this is about.
Sheriff explains that this allows the actual costs of the deputy sheriff to be paid. He says these are costs for the sheriff to stand by during foreclosure court order, attachment or replevin. He says they could be at the scene for 3 - 4 or 8 - 12 hours. They stand by to preserve the peace while the individual is removed and the property is packed. He says it is not unusual for it to be 8 hours.
The sheriff also explained that by state law, they can only charge $10 per hour, but it costs $52.46 per hour to send a Deputy 3. However, they have been charging $40 per hour for years, apparently in violation of the state law. He says that they can amend this, pass it as is, or if they do nothing, it will go back to $10/hr.
Hendrick urges people to vote not. Says he checked Statute 799 and it says that (6)(b) automatically assesses these costs to the tenant if they lose the eviction. The judge doesn't decide, it is an administrative procedure done by the clerk.
Richmond asks how many officers go out to calls. The Sheriff says that usually 1, but send 2 if there is an emotional situaiton. Richmond asks how he decides to send 2 and he says it is based on how people respond when they serve the 24 hour notice to be out. Some have no issues, other there are security and safety issues.
Bruskewitz says landlords are loathe to evict cuz it costs too much. Says landlord has to pay if the tenant doesn't. Says if they don't leave on their own it can get dicey. Landlords don't like to evict. She says the poor won't pay and the landlord ends up paying the cost. Its a cost of doing business which is passed along to the other tenants. She says it is very rare the landlords get paid back.
Willet is visibly angry and says that is sounds like landlords are evil. He talks about buying house 30 years ago and having to evict the tenant that wouldn't leave. He says that he had no money for eviction but had to pay it. Says sheriff did a great job and that the court decides if the tenant has to pay the fees. He says they should let the judge decide. [He obviously didn't understand what Hendrick explained about the law!]
Rusk says this is a hard one. Says the sheriff tried to live within his budget, unlike the last one. But his budget isn't balanced and that it is the policy of the county to charge actual costs for user fees if they are used by a small number of people. He says that he's chair of PP&J and it is his responsiblity to make sure that they stay within the budget, so that there aren't transfers so the money doesn't get taken out of human services. If we do early intervention, people won't end up in criminal justice system. Understands its a bad economy and its only $6,000, but now we have new information we need to drop down to $10 and there will be further loses. He says there are 6 - 9 people who do nothing but service of papers, and its state statute that requires them to do it and it is $60,000 - 70,000 per person. Says he is conflicted, as many are, but this has been through the process twice. That both committees passed it overwhelmingly, twice.
ROLL CALL
AYE: Solberg, Stoebig, Veldran, Vogel, Wheeler, Wiganowski, Willett, Bruskewitz, DeSmidt, Downing, Ferrell, Gau, Hampton, Hulsey, Jensen, Kostelic, Levin, Miles, Opitz, Ripp, Rusk, Schlicht, Schmidt, Hesselbein
NO: Bayrd, Erickson, Hendrick, Manning, Matano, Richmond, Salov, McDonell
ABSENT: Stubbs, Vedder, deFelice, Martz, O'Loughlin
Motion fails 24 - 8, McDonell explains that they need 25 votes to be 2/3 to pass.
M. SUCH OTHER BUSINESS AS THE COUNTY BOARD IS AUTHORIZED TO CONDUCT BY LAW
None.
N. ADJOURNMENT - Until Thursday, June 4, 2009, 7:00 or call of the chair.
Moved by Opitz, seconded by Hesslebein
* Contingent on Committee action week of May 18, 2009
And with that, they had wrapped it up in 1.5 hours.
Read more!
Excluding the Public: Formula Point #10
So, yesterday when I posted the 9 point formula for non-viting the public to a government meeting, I did feel like it should have been 10, but all I could think of was to not take minutes or keep records of what happened at the meeting. But Alder Schumacher, surprised me, and did much, much better!
Remember that meeting that was noticed as a possible quorum of the Common Council and the Alcohol License Review Board as follows:
If you click on the agenda, you get this:
When I got in, I sat down at an empty table, there were about 40 people there. Including Alders Schumacher, Bidar-Sielaff, Compton and Clausius and a uniformed police officer. The room had 17 pieces of flip chart paper with lots of notes and about 40 people in the room that had just gotten done eating a catered in lunch. And, on the table, there was this agenda:
I was the only "public" that attended, they gave me a round of applause after Schumacher introduced "former Alder Konkel" with a new profession of "on-line journalism". They offered me lunch, to which I replied, I guess I could take it now but no thanks, and Shiva made sure to point out that she paid her $5 for the lunch. They asked me if I had anything I wanted to say, but obviously, I didn't, because I had no idea what was going on having just arrived and not knowing what they were even talking about at the moment having clearly missed the main event.
After my interruption, they returned to the exercise they were doing. They were going around the room and they were supposed to talk about how they "feel" about the process and where they are. The facilitator made sure to call it a "check-in", but it was clear that it was a "check-out" and that the meeting was over. I listened to about 4 or 5 people talk about the "two meetings", the "outcomes of today". Several people thanked the alders for coming and complimented them on making government accessible. Kristin from the Cap Times also showed up, was introduced by Schumacher likely to warn folks that the real media was now there. I had seen enough. Bill White then brought me the "talking points" that were referred to in the agenda.
As I was walking away, I thought maybe I should look up the lobbying reports for the folks in that room . . . but there are so many loopholes, I doubt many of them have to report this activity. Here's the registered lobbyists I found on a quick review:
Steve Foti, Wine Institute
Phil Reynolds, General Beer Distributors
Ron Rotter, Frank Beverages
Ron Trachtenberg, Kelly Williamson Co (I didn't see him, but his cohort Rick Petri was there and the link on his report doesn't work)
Casey Trudgeon, WDI, LLC
Mike Wittenwyler, Wisconsin Wine and Spirit Institute
Clearly that was far fewer people than were in the room, but I'm guessing they were all getting paid to be there and lobby the alders there. What wasn't clear was if they meet the requirements in the ordinance to have to file without knowing more. And I wonder who's lobbying report the costs of lunch and the professional facilitator will show up on?
The other thing that wasn't clear was how the alders knew to be there at 9 am? Was it special invite only? If it wasn't, shouldn't the notice of possible quorum have been noticed at 9:00. And, if alders and the ALRC members had shown up at 1:00, with or without the public, what would they have learned or discussed?
I have to say, I knew to expect something that wasn't going to quite be open government or transparent, but it was much worse than I expected. I can't wait to see how this whole thing gets presented to the Common Council. Read more!
Remember that meeting that was noticed as a possible quorum of the Common Council and the Alcohol License Review Board as follows:
| 5/21/2009 01:00 PM | POSSIBLE QUORUM OF THE COMMON COUNCIL & ALCOHOL LICENSE REVIEW COMMITTEE MEETING RELATIVE TO ORDINANCE #14171 |  Agenda |
If you click on the agenda, you get this:
Ald. Michael Schumacher, District 18, is holding a public meeting to identify how the alcohol industry will specifically work with the city and the community in implementing the proposed ordinance amendment banning the sale of certain beer and wine volumes. The purpose for the public meeting is to share what the group has learned to date and continue the dialogue to formulate a framework for future actions to address alcohol abuse in various segments of the Madison community.Well, I had heard a rumor that I wanted to check out, so I decided to show up to the meeting to check it out. When I went up the elevator and met the receptionist at the front desk, she didn't know what meeting I was there for. However, I ran into Matt Veldran and he told the receptionist what I was talking about and they pointed to to the hallway and said to go in those "closed doors" on the left. Well, I started to walk through the cube farm and it was confusing as there were several doors on the left, I got to the end and was kind of looking around and someone had to point me in the right direction. No sign on the door, no indication that it was a public meeting, just a closed door.
A possible quorum of the Common Council and ALRC exists at this meeting.
For more information feel free to contact Ald. Michael Schumacher at 242-1779 or
district18@cityofmadison.com
The ordinance is attached to this agenda and may also be accessed at:
http://legistar.cityofmadison.com/detailreport/?key=15876
When I got in, I sat down at an empty table, there were about 40 people there. Including Alders Schumacher, Bidar-Sielaff, Compton and Clausius and a uniformed police officer. The room had 17 pieces of flip chart paper with lots of notes and about 40 people in the room that had just gotten done eating a catered in lunch. And, on the table, there was this agenda:
Notice anything funny about that meeting that was starting at 1:00?ALRC Coalition Meeting
5/21/09
9:00 Welcome and Introductions9:25 Update/Overview: Michael & Bill
- Review meeting ground rules
9:35 Establish Problem Solving Groups10:15 Break
- Create representative groups
- Select group facilitator and recorder
- Discuss first talking point
- Report out conclusions/initial plan
10:25 Discuss Second Talking Point11:10 Discuss Third Talking Point
- Select new group facilitator and recorder
- Report out conclusions/initial plan
11:55 Break for Working Lunch
- Report out conclusions/initial plan
1:00 Welcome Public
- Summary & conclusions
- Identify next steps and individual responsibilities
2:00 Adjourn
Organizational Skills Association, LLC 608-238-7114 www.orgskills.com
I was the only "public" that attended, they gave me a round of applause after Schumacher introduced "former Alder Konkel" with a new profession of "on-line journalism". They offered me lunch, to which I replied, I guess I could take it now but no thanks, and Shiva made sure to point out that she paid her $5 for the lunch. They asked me if I had anything I wanted to say, but obviously, I didn't, because I had no idea what was going on having just arrived and not knowing what they were even talking about at the moment having clearly missed the main event.
After my interruption, they returned to the exercise they were doing. They were going around the room and they were supposed to talk about how they "feel" about the process and where they are. The facilitator made sure to call it a "check-in", but it was clear that it was a "check-out" and that the meeting was over. I listened to about 4 or 5 people talk about the "two meetings", the "outcomes of today". Several people thanked the alders for coming and complimented them on making government accessible. Kristin from the Cap Times also showed up, was introduced by Schumacher likely to warn folks that the real media was now there. I had seen enough. Bill White then brought me the "talking points" that were referred to in the agenda.
DRAFT TALKING POINTSI'd had enough after about 20 - 25 minutes and left as it appeared it would take the rest of the time to get around the room with people talking about how they "feel".
FOR 5/21/09
ALRC COALITION MEETING
1. Preparation of No Serve List under Wisconsin Statute Sec 125.12(2)(ag)3.2. Establishment of good practices. This would be based on Respect 21 Program
- Establishment of criteria for placement on the List
- Ability to communicate between retail locations
- The ability to voluntarily place oneself on the No Serve List
- How police interact with individuals on the List
3. Ongoing communications and policy formulation
- Screening for known habitual drunkards
- Establishment of Training Programs for Class A licensees
- Maintaining statistics on individuals who are refused service
- Creation of "secret shopper" and compliance officer programs
- Carding all purchasers
- Possible establishment of ongoing Alcohol Beverage Advisory Board where key segments of the regulatory community and alcohol industry are present.
- Initial gathering to insure adequate identification of all collateral issues to include industry representatives, police, public health, mental health and related segments
- Enforcement of public intoxication ordinances
- Scram bracelets which can measure alcohol content
- Medical treatment for chronic alcohol abuse
- Develop mechanisms for effective continued communication with all interested parties
As I was walking away, I thought maybe I should look up the lobbying reports for the folks in that room . . . but there are so many loopholes, I doubt many of them have to report this activity. Here's the registered lobbyists I found on a quick review:
Steve Foti, Wine Institute
Phil Reynolds, General Beer Distributors
Ron Rotter, Frank Beverages
Ron Trachtenberg, Kelly Williamson Co (I didn't see him, but his cohort Rick Petri was there and the link on his report doesn't work)
Casey Trudgeon, WDI, LLC
Mike Wittenwyler, Wisconsin Wine and Spirit Institute
Clearly that was far fewer people than were in the room, but I'm guessing they were all getting paid to be there and lobby the alders there. What wasn't clear was if they meet the requirements in the ordinance to have to file without knowing more. And I wonder who's lobbying report the costs of lunch and the professional facilitator will show up on?
The other thing that wasn't clear was how the alders knew to be there at 9 am? Was it special invite only? If it wasn't, shouldn't the notice of possible quorum have been noticed at 9:00. And, if alders and the ALRC members had shown up at 1:00, with or without the public, what would they have learned or discussed?
I have to say, I knew to expect something that wasn't going to quite be open government or transparent, but it was much worse than I expected. I can't wait to see how this whole thing gets presented to the Common Council. Read more!
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