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!!]
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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!!
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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:
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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?
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.
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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 is
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
Read more!
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.
Read more!
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,
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
Read more!
Parks Clean Up Opportunities
The first one is coming on Saturday . . .
Read more!
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 can
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
Read more!
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.
Read more!
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.
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
Read more!
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!
Read more!
Letter of Invitation
“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!
Read more!
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.
Read more!
Dane County Task Force on Racial Disparities
May 27th, 2009
5-7 pm
Warner Park Community Center, 1625 Northport Drive, Madison.
For Immediate Release
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.
Read more!
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.
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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!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
County to Pass Financial Woes on to the Poor
So, when someone is getting evicted by the sheriff, it usually means one thing. They have no place to go or no resources to get there. They're broke, that's why 95% of the people get evicted. The money they make, doesn't cover their costs when the car breaks down, or they get sick and miss work, or their kid has to go to the hospital . . . or they lose their job, get their hours cut or are furloughed. So, to solve the problem of costs to the sheriff, what should we do? Charge the poor more!
That's the proposal tonight at the County Board (page 67). It's only going to bring in an anticipated $5,000 for Dane County, but it will help bury those already without resources even more.
I know some people may have thought this was no big deal because the landlords would have to pay this money, but that isn't the case. As I pointed out to a few folks, the costs get automatically added to the judgment and passed on to the tenant.
Read more!
That's the proposal tonight at the County Board (page 67). It's only going to bring in an anticipated $5,000 for Dane County, but it will help bury those already without resources even more.
I know some people may have thought this was no big deal because the landlords would have to pay this money, but that isn't the case. As I pointed out to a few folks, the costs get automatically added to the judgment and passed on to the tenant.
799.25 Costs. The clerk shall without notice to the parties taxGiven that it already costs more to be poor (a very good article you should read, but here's an excerpt with just one issue)
and insert in the judgment as costs in favor of the party recovering
judgment the following:
(6) SERVICE FEES AND OTHER CHARGES. Lawful fees or charges
paid to the sheriff, constable or other person for serving the summons
or any other document, and charges paid to the sheriff in
connection with the execution of any writ of restitution.
The rest of it is here.
Poverty 101: We'll start with the basics.Read the article, really. It'll show you why it is so wrong for the county to be piling on at this time, especially for such a small return. Contact your sups or county_board_recipients@co.dane.wi.us! Ask them not to vote for this tonight. Make sure they realize the impact of this ordinance.
Like food: You don't have a car to get to a supermarket, much less to Costco or Trader Joe's, where the middle class goes to save money. You don't have three hours to take the bus. So you buy groceries at the corner store, where a gallon of milk costs an extra dollar.
A loaf of bread there costs you $2.99 for white. For wheat, it's $3.79. The clerk behind the counter tells you the gallon of leaking milk in the bottom of the back cooler is $4.99. She holds up four fingers to clarify. The milk is beneath the shelf that holds beef bologna for $3.79. A pound of butter sells for $4.49. In the back of the store are fruits and vegetables. The green peppers are shriveled, the bananas are more brown than yellow, the oranges are picked over.
(At a Safeway on Bradley Boulevard in Bethesda, the wheat bread costs $1.19, and white bread is on sale for $1. A gallon of milk costs $3.49 -- $2.99 if you buy two gallons. A pound of butter is $2.49. Beef bologna is on sale, two packages for $5.)
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Lake Levels will be Voted on Tonight
County Board will be discussing the lake levels tonight. Which reminds us all again of the issues with the lakes and makes one ask why isn't the county using the minimum lake levels that they are authorized to use?
To get up to speed, here's a relatively straightforward, easy to read quickly, easily digestible power point presentation about Dane County lake levels.
The County Board has a resolution (see page 62) at their meeting tonight to address the lake level issues and urge the state to take action. While the resolution is asking to be able to maintain the lake levels below the minimums, the county is planning to maintain the Lake Monona levels 3 inches above the summer minimum, which is 2460 acre-feet of additional flood storage if they would bring it down to the minimums authorized. Lake Mendota has not been maintained at its winter minimum since 1980.
Now, I realize that there are competing interests here, do we flood Belle Isle, or have flooding issues on Lake Mendota? (Not to mention the boaters?) But it does seem that with aggressive management, when the lakes are below their maximum levels, there could be actions taken to help rectify this situation and not have to make that choice.
Read more!
To get up to speed, here's a relatively straightforward, easy to read quickly, easily digestible power point presentation about Dane County lake levels.
The County Board has a resolution (see page 62) at their meeting tonight to address the lake level issues and urge the state to take action. While the resolution is asking to be able to maintain the lake levels below the minimums, the county is planning to maintain the Lake Monona levels 3 inches above the summer minimum, which is 2460 acre-feet of additional flood storage if they would bring it down to the minimums authorized. Lake Mendota has not been maintained at its winter minimum since 1980.
Now, I realize that there are competing interests here, do we flood Belle Isle, or have flooding issues on Lake Mendota? (Not to mention the boaters?) But it does seem that with aggressive management, when the lakes are below their maximum levels, there could be actions taken to help rectify this situation and not have to make that choice.
Read more!
Is there a chance for Historic Preservation?
With all the pressure for development and redevelopment and economic development and stimulus, is there a chance that we'll agree that there needs to be some historic preservation? Where is the balance? Learn more tonight!
There's the meeting at 4:30 at the Municipal Building (Post Office Building) or you can attend this:
Read more!
There's the meeting at 4:30 at the Municipal Building (Post Office Building) or you can attend this:
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Goodman Community Center, 149 Waubesa Street, Madison, WI, 7:00 p.m.
Free
Historic Preservation & Development .... Does it Work?
Madison neighborhood activists, concerned citizens, and development
entrepreneurs will all find something to take away from this program.
Noted Washington D.C. author, speaker and consultant, Donovan Rypkema, will
lead a conversation about "The dichotomy of historic preservation and
economic development." Mr. Rypkema is nationally recognized for his
expertise in downtown and neighborhood development and revitalization and
historic preservation. His website is
www.placeeconomics.com/
See attached flyer and press release. Contact Bert Stitt, at 608-219-0075
or bert@bertstitt.com with questions. PLEASE CIRCULATE WIDELY THROUGH YOUR
EMAIL GROUPS, LISTSERVS, OR WEBSITES.
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
In the contrarian world of development and historic preservation, there are
few more capable than Donovan Rypkema in bringing harmony to this dichotomy.
Apex Enterprises, Inc. is pleased to announce that May 21st will mark the
return of Donovan Rypkema to Madison; He is just back from addressing the
European Union Parliament on Heritage Investment: Counter Cyclical
Opportunity in Economic Downturns. (see his blog at
http://www.placeeconomics.com/blog.html)
Mr. Rypkema will be in Madison for two days of meetings and conversations
focusing on planning, smart growth and the community-building power of
historic preservation.
He is a dedicated acolyte of and champion for the preservation community
who brings a rare and skilled insight of economic development to that
historic preservationist perspective. His broad and deep experience has
taken him across the country and around the world to speak, confer, educate
and motivate.
Along the way, he has taught starry-eyed artisans and environmentalists
much about reality, regulation and the right and wrong place to take a
stand.
He has also instilled appreciation for the multiple values of preservation
in bankers, developers, and lawmakers -- and proven the real return on
investment generated by "place economics," which also is the name of the
real estate and economic development company he heads in Washington, D.C.
With a client list that runs -- from the American Planning Association to
Plan Baton Rouge to the Urban Land Institute -- he has encountered the full
range of challenges.
Here, in Madison, a cross-section of interests, advocates and policy-makers
understands better than many others two principles that are near and dear
to Rypkema: The best form of preservation is occupancy and use. And
Buildings that sit vacant or underutilized are properties that deteriorate.
They speak to the realism he will bring to Madison. Historic preservation
is not about board members who fight about shades of blues; it is about the
vitality of a community and preservation's symbiotic relation with that.
Apex Enterprises will host an all-community invitational program for the
public to hear Mr. Rypkema speak and ask him questions on Thursday evening,
May 21st, at 7:00 pm at the Goodman Community Center.
For more on Donovan's schedule and events, contact Steve Yoder at Apex
Enterprises, 608-251-7749.
Read more!
County cutbacks trickle down . . .
Wow, who doesn't love a contract where they can just change the amount of money you're getting to do the same services? And more questions about how the executive can over-rule the legislative branch of government. In the past 5 years, the Tenant Resource Center hasn't gotten an increase in funding from the county for operational funds, in fact, the County added $8,000 of expenses during this time (charge us for rent, phone calls and make us make our own copies). Meanwhile, our health care costs nearly doubled, all of our expenses have gone up and the level of services that we have to provide has remained the same and has gotten more difficult as the problems of our clients get more and more complex with less and less resources to help resolve their issues. Last year, we finally got a 1% increase in funding, and now they want to reduce that by 2% or even more.
This is also another interesting separation of powers local government issue. The County Board voted to, for the first time in 5 years, increase the funding to non-profit service providers by 1%. Now the staff is reducing it by 2%. It was a nice 6 months while it lasted! The question is, how can the staff do this without a vote by the county board, and a public process? I know Kathleen Falk has decided that everyone needs to feel the pain, but has the County Board acted? Does the staff have the authority to do this?
I suppose, the questions are kind of rhetorical. If they want to do this, they will find a way and we will have very little options. We'll just have to grin and bear it and be thankful that we aren't being cut more. Ah, the life of a non-profit Executive Director is always a joy! Do more with less! I can hardly wait to see if they want to get more than 2% from us. Do you think maybe we can use it as leverage to finally get the moldy carpeting removed from the space we rent?
Meanwhile, here's the official word . . .
Read more!
This is also another interesting separation of powers local government issue. The County Board voted to, for the first time in 5 years, increase the funding to non-profit service providers by 1%. Now the staff is reducing it by 2%. It was a nice 6 months while it lasted! The question is, how can the staff do this without a vote by the county board, and a public process? I know Kathleen Falk has decided that everyone needs to feel the pain, but has the County Board acted? Does the staff have the authority to do this?
I suppose, the questions are kind of rhetorical. If they want to do this, they will find a way and we will have very little options. We'll just have to grin and bear it and be thankful that we aren't being cut more. Ah, the life of a non-profit Executive Director is always a joy! Do more with less! I can hardly wait to see if they want to get more than 2% from us. Do you think maybe we can use it as leverage to finally get the moldy carpeting removed from the space we rent?
Meanwhile, here's the official word . . .
May 19, 2009
Purchased Service Providers:
As you already know based on my past communications, Dane County’s fiscal situation is most problematic as the year’s mid-point approaches. National and State economic difficulties with which all of you are familiar strike Dane County hard at this time. The proposed State budget contains major reductions for human services. Revenue declines in areas such as sales tax have been dramatic. County Executive Kathleen Falk has communicated to the Dane County Board of Supervisors that the County faces a shortfall of as much as $5-6 million in the absence of prompt action. In addition, the State recently announced increased deficit figures, and we are anticipating more reductions at the local level.
The Department of Human Services is the County’s largest department. It commands fully half of the total County budget. We are currently projecting a 2009 deficit of $3.4 million. It is our legal responsibility to address this budget problem and balance our budget by the end of the year. The Department of Human Services has implemented numerous cost saving efforts within the Department and must implement a mid-year reduction in our provider contracts.
Internally, County staff may be compelled to take unpaid leaves, new hires are frozen, limited-term-employee utilization has been curbed, all staff conferences and trainings are frozen, all discretionary spending is frozen, capital outlays are being carefully reviewed, and more. In addition, we have put increased efforts into psychiatric hospitalization and juvenile residential diversion and maximizing revenues in all areas. It is hoped that these actions and more will solve the majority of the Department’s 2009 budget problem.
That said, due to the magnitude of our deficit and the fact that 59% of my Department’s budget goes to purchase services, we are unable to cover the entire deficit without the assistance of our contracted providers. As a result, all agencies that provide purchased services to consumers and are not 100% supported by earmarked grant funds will be required to accept a two percent (2.0%) base budget reduction effective July 1, 2009. An across-the-board reduction is the most equitable way to treat all of our valuable agencies and services and maintain the continuum of services to our consumers.
Please anticipate a formal contract amendment from the Department in the very near future. I ask that you work closely with your contract manager as to the manner in which you may practically effectuate this reduction. Maximizing services to consumers should of course be paramount.
Please note that your contract manager may implement other reductions at this time as well. I have asked managers to remove outside revenues (Medical Assistance monies, for example) which are not materializing from agencies’ budgets if there is no reason to believe that those revenues will in fact materialize in the second half of the year. The Department is not in a position to absorb revenues shortfalls, as it has done in many years, in 2009.
I regret all of these actions, but they are necessary in this unprecedented negative fiscal environment of Federal and State reductions in human service funding and unrealized revenues. I have tried to be as fair as possible to our partner agencies. You will note that reductions are borne internally to the greatest extent possible. I hope for better budget news at some point in the future, but I must in honesty write that such is not likely to be forthcoming soon. In fact, indications are that we will be getting news shortly of further State reductions when the Governor announces amendments to his budget proposal based on projected decreased State revenues. Nevertheless, I truly believe that if we work together we can maintain quality services to our consumers and insure their safety and the safety of the community.
Sincerely,
Lynn Green
Director
Read more!
How to Exclude the Public from Your Meeting
There's a formula, and this one has got it all. Another classic example . . .
1. Don't tell the alders the meeting is coming up so it can't fit in their busy schedules or help get the word out. It's the classic Seinfeld non-vite.
Check. On the Tuesday the 19th at 11:30 an email gets sent to council staff to send out the following email for a meeting on Thursday, the 21st at 1:00. If lucky, they might have gotten a 49.5 hour notice of the meeting. Many alders don't read their alder email when at work, so they probably first got the notice after they got home from their evening meetings. Then it not only diminishes the likelihood that the alders will attend cuz they can't fit it in their busy schedules, it also limits the time that they can get the information out to their networks of people who might be interested.
2. Make sure the meeting isn't on the Weekly Meeting Schedule on Monday morning.
Check. The meeting wasn't on the weekly meeting agenda Monday morning, so the people who preview the week ahead (me, the Cap Times and what happened to the Isthmus?) won't put it on the week ahead that many people read. And those who do check the schedule, have less of a likelihood of checking back and noticing the meeting will be held.
3. Give as close to the minimal legally required notice as possible.
Check. At best, there might have been 48 hours notice, but the notice sent to alders went out yesterday morning at 9:00 and I'm guessing that is when it was sent to the clerk as well. Technically, you only have to legally give 24 hours notice.
Check. 1:00.
5. If the meeting is held during the day, hold it at a time other than noon, when people might be able to attend during their lunch break if they work in the downtown area.
Check. The meeting is at 1:00, so people might have to ask to move their lunch with about 24 hours to rearrange their day.
6. Hold the meeting in a location other than the Municipal or City-County Building, so people who attend these meetings are unfamiliar with where they are going.
Check. It's being held at a law firm's offices, but at least it is in the general area of the city buildings so if you accidentally go there assuming that is where the meetings will be, you don't have far to walk.
7. Hold the meeting at a private business.
Check. It's being held at the law offices of Kodfrey & Kahn, but hey, they'll validate your parking.
8. Make sure the meeting is not in legistar.
Check. If you look at the meetings that are being held on the meetings calendar here, this meeting won't show up. You have to look here instead, at the notice of additional meetings, which very, very few people check or probably even know about.
9. Use technical terms instead of plain language in your notice of the meeting.
Check. You know what ordinance #14171 is, right?
I wonder if the ALRC members got any more notice than the alders did? Or what about the industry? They had been complaining that the process was bad, if the rest of it was like this, I can see why.
Just so you know, I first heard about the meeting about 10:00 last night, and I probably have a bit of an unfair advantage when it comes to getting the inside track on Common Council dealings. I do really need to remember to check that weekly schedule later in the week!
This is insider, unopen government at its best! Now, let the excuses begin. I could probably list them here for you, as the excuses are as predictable as the methodology.
Read more!
1. Don't tell the alders the meeting is coming up so it can't fit in their busy schedules or help get the word out. It's the classic Seinfeld non-vite.
Check. On the Tuesday the 19th at 11:30 an email gets sent to council staff to send out the following email for a meeting on Thursday, the 21st at 1:00. If lucky, they might have gotten a 49.5 hour notice of the meeting. Many alders don't read their alder email when at work, so they probably first got the notice after they got home from their evening meetings. Then it not only diminishes the likelihood that the alders will attend cuz they can't fit it in their busy schedules, it also limits the time that they can get the information out to their networks of people who might be interested.
Hi Lisa, could you please get a public meeting noticed for this coming Thursday , May 21, from 1 - 2pm at at the offices of Godfrey & Kahn, 1 East Main Street, 5th floor. Parking is off of Doty St. and will be stamped. To be safe, you may want to note that a quorum of the City Council and the ALRC may be present.
All Alders
At the last Council meeting I asked for referral of the proposed ordinance to establish uniform license conditions (banning "cheap" liquor sold at retail stores) to give the industry an additional opportunity to be part of the solution. During our first meeting , May 11, the industry made a commitment to work with the City to mitigate the unacceptable public behavior that occur at a number of the retail stores selling liquor. We will have another meeting on May 21 to identify how the industry will specifically work with us and the community.
The purpose for the public meeting is to share what we learned and continue our dialogue to formulate a framework for future actions to address alcohol abuse in various segments of the Madison community.
Collaborative, voluntary involvement by the industry combined with effective government licensing will have a higher potential to address some of the alcohol-related issues we are seeing in our community. As we learn to work together and join forces with other community and social agencies and governmental bodies, we can perhaps leverage our resources and abilities to make mitigate the public consequences of alcohol abuse.
Please forward this e-mail to anyone who may have an interest in this issue.
If you have more questions, please contact me individually. Hope to see you there, Michael
2. Make sure the meeting isn't on the Weekly Meeting Schedule on Monday morning.
Check. The meeting wasn't on the weekly meeting agenda Monday morning, so the people who preview the week ahead (me, the Cap Times and what happened to the Isthmus?) won't put it on the week ahead that many people read. And those who do check the schedule, have less of a likelihood of checking back and noticing the meeting will be held.
3. Give as close to the minimal legally required notice as possible.
Check. At best, there might have been 48 hours notice, but the notice sent to alders went out yesterday morning at 9:00 and I'm guessing that is when it was sent to the clerk as well. Technically, you only have to legally give 24 hours notice.
Please find attached a meeting notice for the following meeting:4. Hold the meeting during the work day, when many members of the public are working and can't attend (especially with such short notice.)
Possible Quorum of the Common Council & ALRC
Meeting Relative to Ordinance, #14171
Thursday, May 21, 2009
1 p.m.
Godfrey & Kahn Law Office, 1 E. Main Street
(5th floor)
If you have any questions please feel free to contact Ald. Michael Schumacher at 242-1779 or district18@cityofmadison.com
Thank you.
Check. 1:00.
5. If the meeting is held during the day, hold it at a time other than noon, when people might be able to attend during their lunch break if they work in the downtown area.
Check. The meeting is at 1:00, so people might have to ask to move their lunch with about 24 hours to rearrange their day.
6. Hold the meeting in a location other than the Municipal or City-County Building, so people who attend these meetings are unfamiliar with where they are going.
Check. It's being held at a law firm's offices, but at least it is in the general area of the city buildings so if you accidentally go there assuming that is where the meetings will be, you don't have far to walk.
7. Hold the meeting at a private business.
Check. It's being held at the law offices of Kodfrey & Kahn, but hey, they'll validate your parking.
8. Make sure the meeting is not in legistar.
Check. If you look at the meetings that are being held on the meetings calendar here, this meeting won't show up. You have to look here instead, at the notice of additional meetings, which very, very few people check or probably even know about.
9. Use technical terms instead of plain language in your notice of the meeting.
Check. You know what ordinance #14171 is, right?
I wonder if the ALRC members got any more notice than the alders did? Or what about the industry? They had been complaining that the process was bad, if the rest of it was like this, I can see why.
Just so you know, I first heard about the meeting about 10:00 last night, and I probably have a bit of an unfair advantage when it comes to getting the inside track on Common Council dealings. I do really need to remember to check that weekly schedule later in the week!
This is insider, unopen government at its best! Now, let the excuses begin. I could probably list them here for you, as the excuses are as predictable as the methodology.
Read more!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Common Council Recap - The Basics (Not quite done . . .)
Bike lanes on Midvale, 600 E Johnson Project, Chronic Nuisance Ordinance, TIF agreement for Capital West, Capital Revolving Funds, the Sign Ordinance and oh, so much more!
[Guess what! The meeting started late. Still bugs me. I don't why. Just does.]
Mayor was here by 6:28, Bruer up at the dais talking to him for a good 5 minutes or more. Various lobbyists talking to alders, alders talking to staff and each other. No signs anyone is concerned that the meeting should start. The media row is empty. Kristin from the Cap Times the only media in media row pulling double duty writing for the State Journal as well this evening, Joe Tarr from the Isthmus sitting off to the side.
ROLL CALL (6:40)
No notified absences on the agenda. Everyone present except Alder Maniaci who was out of the room when they finally called the roll call.
Alder Bruer's mic works! [I'm sure Julia was very happy.] Rules are suspended with no discussion.
HONORING RESOLUTIONS (6:41)
Item 1 - Madison Memorial Spartan Boys Swimming and Diving Team resolution honoring them for winning the State WIAA Division 1 title referred until they can be here.
Item 2 - Madison Memorial High School's Forensics Team resolution recognizing them for winning the 2009 State Championship. No presentation by the forensics team as there has been in the past.
Item 3 - Gary Peterson, President of Wisconsin American Planning Association, gives recognition for the Stoughton Road Plan. Alder Compton, the Mayor, and planning staff all go up to shake hands and congratulate themselves. [This is odd, as I thought Gary Peterson had been critical of the plan for not doing enough for economic development.]
EARLY PUBLIC COMMENT
One person registered but makes no comment.
CONSENT AGENDA
Unanimous consent for super-majority (needs 14 or 15 votes for budget amendments or by other regulations)
24. Legislative File No. 14553 - Report of the Mayor submitting citizen committee appointments. (Business by the Mayor – 2/3 vote is required for Sister City Committee appointment)
48. Legislative File No. 14591 - Authorizing payment of the judgment entered on April 13, 2009 by the court in Walgreen Company v. City of Madison, Case No. 2004 CV 1564 relating to refund of real property taxes for tax years 2003 and 2004 which provides for the refund of taxes and interest in the amount of $247,790.55 from City resources and amending the 2009 operating budget to reduce estimated General Fund revenues by $59,595.02 to recognize the City's share of the tax refund and to appropriate $76,592.43 from Contingent Reserve to fund related interest costs. (Report of BOE – 15 votes required)
49. Legislative File No. 14602 - Amending the 2009 Adopted Capital Budget of Engineering-Major Streets and Authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to enter into an agreement with Foth Infrastructure and Environment for design engineering services for University Avenue from Segoe Road to Shorewood Boulevard. The City has applied for Economic Stimulus Funds for construction. (11th AD) (Report of BOE – 15 votes required)
Jim Cobb's name removed from number 24, there was an additional referral for item 100 (Engineering on Hwy M/Junction Rd) to the Long Range Transportation Commission and the recommendation on item 69 (Complete count committee) was to adopt.
Everything else on the agenda passes with the recommendation on the agenda except for the following items:
Public hearing items 4 - 23.
25. Legislative File No. 14767 - Report of the Mayor submitting citizen committee appointments (introduced 5-19-2009; action 6-2-2009). (Report of Mayor – Ald. Marsha Rummel, D. 6 to re-refer the TPC Appointment back to Mayor)
27. Legislative File No. 12065 - SUBSTITUTE - Amending Section 25.09 of the Madison General Ordinances to change various provisions of the Chronic Nuisance Premises ordinance recommended by the Equal Opportunities Commission. (Report of City Attorney – Ald. Jed Sanborn, D. 1)
43. Legislative File No. 14560 - Authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute an amendment to the Tax Incremental Financing Development Agreement between the City and 309 W. Washington, LLC, and amending Enactment No. RES-07-00419. (Report of BOE – Ald. Jed Sanborn, D. 1)
44. Legislative File No. 14565 - Authorizing 1) an amendment to the 2009 Operating Budget appropriating $230,000 from the Madison Capital Revolving Fund (MCRF) fund a $230,000 MCRF loan referenced herein and 2) the Mayor and City Clerk to execute an agreement to fund a $230,000 Madison Capital Revolving Fund loan to Wingra Broadway, LLC to construct 8,400 SF of commercial space at 1502 West Broadway. (Report of BOE – Ald. Jed Sanborn, D. 1)
71. 13992 Amending Secs. 3.32(6)(b)1., 3.32(6)(e)1., 3.32(6)(e)2., and 3.38(1)(b)3.a. of
the Madison General Ordinances to modify existing sick leave eligibility,
earning and accumulation provisions to make sick leave benefits available to
more employees.
91. Legislative File No. 04176 - SUBSTITUTE - To adopt and confirm amendments to the Madison General Ordinances as set forth in attached Exhibit X pursuant to Sec. 66.0103, Wis. Stats. Repealing and recreating Chapter 31 and amending portions of Sec. 33.24, Chapter 28 and Chapter 1. (Report of UDC – Ald. Mike Verveer, D. 4)
[I don't know why this was so hard and takes so long. The materials are all sitting in front of the alders. Alder Bruer claimed there were "late breaking" changes, but it was pretty much like was presented on the consent agenda to the Council members and copied above.]
MIDVALE BOULEVARD
See here for complete discussion. Short story is, the narrowed the bike lanes in some areas, and widened the median by 2 feet in some areas. Final vote, 19 - 1, passes.
ADDITIONAL EARLY COMMENT
See Carousel Bayrd's comments here (still working on it). She was supposed to be home on bed rest, so she spoke "early" so she could go home. She testified and the Mayor told Supervisor Bayrd to go home and go to bed.
DEVELOPMENT ON 600 E JOHNSON
See discussion here. Passed on a voice vote, with only one audible no, but an alleged second no I didn't hear. WSJ magical coverage here.
OTHER PUBLIC HEARINGS
There were no comments on item #6 (development on 1900 E Washington block), the public hearing was recessed.
#7 - 21 (various street closures for vending events like Art Fair OFF the Square, Taste of Madison and Maxwell St. Days) passed, Verveer separated Halloween items 22 & 23. Items 22 & 23 referred to the next meeting.
APPOINTMENTS FOR REFERRAL TO NEXT COUNCIL MEETING
Alder Rummel pulled this item off the agenda to say that she had some issues with the item. [The boys, losing control of the meeting, seemed to be trying to tell her what she meant to be doing. I think she was quite clear what she was doing. The whole process here was very insulting as Alder Rummel tried to speak and kept getting interrupted.] She acknowledged that this was not a routinely done this way but she wanted it referred to Mayors office so that Rummel can talk with Mayor about future of TPC, the RTA and how this fits with the big picture. Ald. Skidmore asked to be party to the discussion as this is a constituent of his that he has been working to get appointed for 2 years. Mayor clarifies, since it it from his office, that he will talk to Rummel and Skidmore.
The council took a recess. The Mayor wanted to keep going, but Clear and Kerr lead the charge to take a break as they had been meeting for nearly 3 hours.
CHRONIC NUISANCE (9:30)
See here for more information. There were several motions, but the EOC recommended changes were placed on file without prejudice by an 18 - 2 vote. Here's the Cap Times report.
WEST WASHINGTON (10:20)
Lots of hemming and hawing. See here for more information (still working on it.) Passed 17 - 3.
MCRF (11:50)
Jed says it is the same argument as the last item. Subsidize loan for private business - done by taxpayers. Odds are, it might not be a problem. But we are taking a risk. He pauses and says, I suppose now we're going to hear about how this was the most important place on the planet for an office building.
Bruer says "Keep baiting me"
Sanborn wisely didn't say another word.
But that didn't stop Bruer from talking anyways . . . and talking . . . and talking . . . and talking . . . it was 11:55 and he was throwing so many buzz words around and giving us his version of history and I kinda tuned out after 5.5 hours of the council meeting.
Clear asked Olinger if this was a subsidized loan. Olinger passes to Gromacki. Gromacki explains the program and why we have it. He says it is for projects too small for TIF and in newly emerging distressed areas. He says that its not a subsidy, because it is repaid. It's a revolving loan fund and when the funds are repaid they will be used again.
Palm asks about the "newly emerging area" theory. He says he's heard of this "emerging area" for years. [Their first plans go back to 1995] Joe says taht the ares is a redevelopment area/blighted and describes why.
Bruer says he's not going to let Palm go unchallenged [You think there might be a little rivalry going on here for who might be the next council president?] He says that they focused on housing and now they are focusing on commercial. He also talks about leveraging projects.
Roll Call
Aye: Solomon, Verveer, Bidar-Sielaff, Bruer, Clausius, Cnare, Compton, Eagon, Kerr, King, Maniaci, Rhodes-Conway, Rummel, Schmidt, Schumacher, Skidmore
No: Pham Remmele, Sanborn
Pass: Palm
Pass Again: Palm
Clerk informs him he already did that and he finally votes aye! :)
PAID SICK LEAVE FOR CITY OF MADISON HOURLY EMPLOYEES
Schumacher pulled this off.
There was an addition of an amendment that required Human Resources to provide the Common Council with a report with a detailed fiscal analysis of the number of employees that used paid sick leave, the hours worked and other details.
Palm asked to co-sponsor.
Schumacher says he palnned to filabuster for an hour. [I believe this is because earlier in the evening there was a heated debate about this at the CCOC meeting.] He was concerned that the council passed $63,000 in the budget and now they are being told it will cost $75,000 - $150,000. [Apparently they used old numbers from a few years ago and didn't update them and there was a change that let them carry over some hours that added costs, but this wasn't explained at the meeting.]
Cnare said that the data collection is a pointless exercise since the real issue is that even if it costs more, she still supports it.
Schumacher tries again to make his point sayint that the Water Utility Contract and the Attorney making policy decisions had alot of scrutiny and apparently he wants the same thing here.
Kerr says she agrees with Cnare, she supports it regardless and that the data is not needed.
Compton says that this isn't about the people, its about approving something that ends up costing more.
Passed on a voice vote.
SIGN ORDINANCE
Verveer made several amendments that I think had the effect of allowing movable type on signs to change every 5 minutes (used to be 2) except in areas where there is an Urban Design District, and then they can only change every hour.
Mary Beth, VP of Ryan Signs speaks and says that the council is essentially adopting her business plan, she thanks them. Mayor gives asks council to give her a round of applause for staying past midnight.
Talking, talking, thanking, everyone notes it took 10 years to get this ordinance done.
Passes on a voice vote.
ADJOURN
12:30 by the time the meeting is over.
AFTER COUNCIL
I thought I was going to go grab a beer with Rummel, turns out, the other alders went the same place I did, so we were joined by Bruer, Clear, Schumacher, Schmidt, Verveer, Palm and the lovely Rosemary Lee.
Read more!
[Guess what! The meeting started late. Still bugs me. I don't why. Just does.]
Mayor was here by 6:28, Bruer up at the dais talking to him for a good 5 minutes or more. Various lobbyists talking to alders, alders talking to staff and each other. No signs anyone is concerned that the meeting should start. The media row is empty. Kristin from the Cap Times the only media in media row pulling double duty writing for the State Journal as well this evening, Joe Tarr from the Isthmus sitting off to the side.
ROLL CALL (6:40)
No notified absences on the agenda. Everyone present except Alder Maniaci who was out of the room when they finally called the roll call.
Alder Bruer's mic works! [I'm sure Julia was very happy.] Rules are suspended with no discussion.
HONORING RESOLUTIONS (6:41)
Item 1 - Madison Memorial Spartan Boys Swimming and Diving Team resolution honoring them for winning the State WIAA Division 1 title referred until they can be here.
Item 2 - Madison Memorial High School's Forensics Team resolution recognizing them for winning the 2009 State Championship. No presentation by the forensics team as there has been in the past.
Item 3 - Gary Peterson, President of Wisconsin American Planning Association, gives recognition for the Stoughton Road Plan. Alder Compton, the Mayor, and planning staff all go up to shake hands and congratulate themselves. [This is odd, as I thought Gary Peterson had been critical of the plan for not doing enough for economic development.]
EARLY PUBLIC COMMENT
One person registered but makes no comment.
CONSENT AGENDA
Unanimous consent for super-majority (needs 14 or 15 votes for budget amendments or by other regulations)
24. Legislative File No. 14553 - Report of the Mayor submitting citizen committee appointments. (Business by the Mayor – 2/3 vote is required for Sister City Committee appointment)
48. Legislative File No. 14591 - Authorizing payment of the judgment entered on April 13, 2009 by the court in Walgreen Company v. City of Madison, Case No. 2004 CV 1564 relating to refund of real property taxes for tax years 2003 and 2004 which provides for the refund of taxes and interest in the amount of $247,790.55 from City resources and amending the 2009 operating budget to reduce estimated General Fund revenues by $59,595.02 to recognize the City's share of the tax refund and to appropriate $76,592.43 from Contingent Reserve to fund related interest costs. (Report of BOE – 15 votes required)
49. Legislative File No. 14602 - Amending the 2009 Adopted Capital Budget of Engineering-Major Streets and Authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to enter into an agreement with Foth Infrastructure and Environment for design engineering services for University Avenue from Segoe Road to Shorewood Boulevard. The City has applied for Economic Stimulus Funds for construction. (11th AD) (Report of BOE – 15 votes required)
Jim Cobb's name removed from number 24, there was an additional referral for item 100 (Engineering on Hwy M/Junction Rd) to the Long Range Transportation Commission and the recommendation on item 69 (Complete count committee) was to adopt.
Everything else on the agenda passes with the recommendation on the agenda except for the following items:
Public hearing items 4 - 23.
25. Legislative File No. 14767 - Report of the Mayor submitting citizen committee appointments (introduced 5-19-2009; action 6-2-2009). (Report of Mayor – Ald. Marsha Rummel, D. 6 to re-refer the TPC Appointment back to Mayor)
27. Legislative File No. 12065 - SUBSTITUTE - Amending Section 25.09 of the Madison General Ordinances to change various provisions of the Chronic Nuisance Premises ordinance recommended by the Equal Opportunities Commission. (Report of City Attorney – Ald. Jed Sanborn, D. 1)
43. Legislative File No. 14560 - Authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute an amendment to the Tax Incremental Financing Development Agreement between the City and 309 W. Washington, LLC, and amending Enactment No. RES-07-00419. (Report of BOE – Ald. Jed Sanborn, D. 1)
44. Legislative File No. 14565 - Authorizing 1) an amendment to the 2009 Operating Budget appropriating $230,000 from the Madison Capital Revolving Fund (MCRF) fund a $230,000 MCRF loan referenced herein and 2) the Mayor and City Clerk to execute an agreement to fund a $230,000 Madison Capital Revolving Fund loan to Wingra Broadway, LLC to construct 8,400 SF of commercial space at 1502 West Broadway. (Report of BOE – Ald. Jed Sanborn, D. 1)
71. 13992 Amending Secs. 3.32(6)(b)1., 3.32(6)(e)1., 3.32(6)(e)2., and 3.38(1)(b)3.a. of
the Madison General Ordinances to modify existing sick leave eligibility,
earning and accumulation provisions to make sick leave benefits available to
more employees.
91. Legislative File No. 04176 - SUBSTITUTE - To adopt and confirm amendments to the Madison General Ordinances as set forth in attached Exhibit X pursuant to Sec. 66.0103, Wis. Stats. Repealing and recreating Chapter 31 and amending portions of Sec. 33.24, Chapter 28 and Chapter 1. (Report of UDC – Ald. Mike Verveer, D. 4)
[I don't know why this was so hard and takes so long. The materials are all sitting in front of the alders. Alder Bruer claimed there were "late breaking" changes, but it was pretty much like was presented on the consent agenda to the Council members and copied above.]
MIDVALE BOULEVARD
See here for complete discussion. Short story is, the narrowed the bike lanes in some areas, and widened the median by 2 feet in some areas. Final vote, 19 - 1, passes.
ADDITIONAL EARLY COMMENT
See Carousel Bayrd's comments here (still working on it). She was supposed to be home on bed rest, so she spoke "early" so she could go home. She testified and the Mayor told Supervisor Bayrd to go home and go to bed.
DEVELOPMENT ON 600 E JOHNSON
See discussion here. Passed on a voice vote, with only one audible no, but an alleged second no I didn't hear. WSJ magical coverage here.
OTHER PUBLIC HEARINGS
There were no comments on item #6 (development on 1900 E Washington block), the public hearing was recessed.
#7 - 21 (various street closures for vending events like Art Fair OFF the Square, Taste of Madison and Maxwell St. Days) passed, Verveer separated Halloween items 22 & 23. Items 22 & 23 referred to the next meeting.
APPOINTMENTS FOR REFERRAL TO NEXT COUNCIL MEETING
Alder Rummel pulled this item off the agenda to say that she had some issues with the item. [The boys, losing control of the meeting, seemed to be trying to tell her what she meant to be doing. I think she was quite clear what she was doing. The whole process here was very insulting as Alder Rummel tried to speak and kept getting interrupted.] She acknowledged that this was not a routinely done this way but she wanted it referred to Mayors office so that Rummel can talk with Mayor about future of TPC, the RTA and how this fits with the big picture. Ald. Skidmore asked to be party to the discussion as this is a constituent of his that he has been working to get appointed for 2 years. Mayor clarifies, since it it from his office, that he will talk to Rummel and Skidmore.
The council took a recess. The Mayor wanted to keep going, but Clear and Kerr lead the charge to take a break as they had been meeting for nearly 3 hours.
CHRONIC NUISANCE (9:30)
See here for more information. There were several motions, but the EOC recommended changes were placed on file without prejudice by an 18 - 2 vote. Here's the Cap Times report.
WEST WASHINGTON (10:20)
Lots of hemming and hawing. See here for more information (still working on it.) Passed 17 - 3.
MCRF (11:50)
Jed says it is the same argument as the last item. Subsidize loan for private business - done by taxpayers. Odds are, it might not be a problem. But we are taking a risk. He pauses and says, I suppose now we're going to hear about how this was the most important place on the planet for an office building.
Bruer says "Keep baiting me"
Sanborn wisely didn't say another word.
But that didn't stop Bruer from talking anyways . . . and talking . . . and talking . . . and talking . . . it was 11:55 and he was throwing so many buzz words around and giving us his version of history and I kinda tuned out after 5.5 hours of the council meeting.
Clear asked Olinger if this was a subsidized loan. Olinger passes to Gromacki. Gromacki explains the program and why we have it. He says it is for projects too small for TIF and in newly emerging distressed areas. He says that its not a subsidy, because it is repaid. It's a revolving loan fund and when the funds are repaid they will be used again.
Palm asks about the "newly emerging area" theory. He says he's heard of this "emerging area" for years. [Their first plans go back to 1995] Joe says taht the ares is a redevelopment area/blighted and describes why.
Bruer says he's not going to let Palm go unchallenged [You think there might be a little rivalry going on here for who might be the next council president?] He says that they focused on housing and now they are focusing on commercial. He also talks about leveraging projects.
Roll Call
Aye: Solomon, Verveer, Bidar-Sielaff, Bruer, Clausius, Cnare, Compton, Eagon, Kerr, King, Maniaci, Rhodes-Conway, Rummel, Schmidt, Schumacher, Skidmore
No: Pham Remmele, Sanborn
Pass: Palm
Pass Again: Palm
Clerk informs him he already did that and he finally votes aye! :)
PAID SICK LEAVE FOR CITY OF MADISON HOURLY EMPLOYEES
Schumacher pulled this off.
There was an addition of an amendment that required Human Resources to provide the Common Council with a report with a detailed fiscal analysis of the number of employees that used paid sick leave, the hours worked and other details.
Palm asked to co-sponsor.
Schumacher says he palnned to filabuster for an hour. [I believe this is because earlier in the evening there was a heated debate about this at the CCOC meeting.] He was concerned that the council passed $63,000 in the budget and now they are being told it will cost $75,000 - $150,000. [Apparently they used old numbers from a few years ago and didn't update them and there was a change that let them carry over some hours that added costs, but this wasn't explained at the meeting.]
Cnare said that the data collection is a pointless exercise since the real issue is that even if it costs more, she still supports it.
Schumacher tries again to make his point sayint that the Water Utility Contract and the Attorney making policy decisions had alot of scrutiny and apparently he wants the same thing here.
Kerr says she agrees with Cnare, she supports it regardless and that the data is not needed.
Compton says that this isn't about the people, its about approving something that ends up costing more.
Passed on a voice vote.
SIGN ORDINANCE
Verveer made several amendments that I think had the effect of allowing movable type on signs to change every 5 minutes (used to be 2) except in areas where there is an Urban Design District, and then they can only change every hour.
Mary Beth, VP of Ryan Signs speaks and says that the council is essentially adopting her business plan, she thanks them. Mayor gives asks council to give her a round of applause for staying past midnight.
Talking, talking, thanking, everyone notes it took 10 years to get this ordinance done.
Passes on a voice vote.
ADJOURN
12:30 by the time the meeting is over.
AFTER COUNCIL
I thought I was going to go grab a beer with Rummel, turns out, the other alders went the same place I did, so we were joined by Bruer, Clear, Schumacher, Schmidt, Verveer, Palm and the lovely Rosemary Lee.
Read more!
CC Recap - 600 East Johnson
Tear down 11 houses and build 3 big buildings on E Johnson Street? Sure, screw the neighborhood plan . . . if we aren't going to follow them, why have them?
[I think this was the toughest project I ever had to face as an alder, the Edgewater would have been even more challenging. The project is a great project, it just belongs 3 blocks to the south, where it would be consistent with the neighborhood plan, not conflict with the character of the neighborhood and it would have been able to be more dense. I convinced myself to vote both for and against the project several times. The loss of the houses was tough, the project was good, the location was wrong. And it doesn't comply with the neighborhood plan and comprehensive plan.]
PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Helen Bradbury - Stonehouse Development - in support - Said she develops section 42 affordable housing, she is very grateful to have support of TLNA, talks about the amazing number of hours of work listening to their story and tweaking the project, and says that it is a better project as a result. She had 3 main issues to consider:
1 - There is a huge need for workforce housing in all of Madison and specifically in this area. Their project Park Central [1100 E Wilson by Central Park] has a waiting list of 100 people.
2 - She explains the type of property that they are talking about. It is high quality, green development and should be an asset to Johnson St. Stonehouse will be the long term property management. This is their 5th project in the city.
3 - She says the houses that they are forced to take down have outlived their useful economic lives. She says the target market is just no longer there - they were student housing and the students have left. Hopes project will revitalize the area. She says that the project has front porches so have the pedestrian residential feel and feel it will help the E Johnson St. businesses.
Rich Arneson - Stonehouse Development and the easel for Helen Bradbury's presentation - Describes the project: 3 buildings, 3 stories, site plan developed with neighborhood, changed multiple times to fit with existing neighborhood as much as possible, underground parking, courtyards in the back, shared green space with Gorham street, some gardens for residents, some gardens will be accessible, 1st floor all have private entrances and are 2 story and have condo feel, large porches to continue historic feel, green built building certified, Madison Environmental Group will do a LEEDS feasibility study, they have received tax credits, hope to get project going in gloomy economic climate. He says that Randy Bruce the architect and Michael Matty from Renaissance Property who is the developer/rehab person for the Northern half of the property.
David Waugh is in opposition. He's lived in the neighborhood for 17 years, he's the Vice President of the Tenney Lapham Neighborhood Association. Doesn't want to be in opposition of the project. Developers did a fantastic job and there is much to be desired in the project. They did their due diligence and worked properly with the neighborhood. However, the recently adopted neighborhood plan wanted infill in targeted areas. He would love the development to be moved two blocks and then would support it. Was on the sounding board that reviewed the project which had numerous meetings. He says most people on the sounding board in opposition of the plan. Nothing in the project goes along with the neighborhood plan which is his number one concern. You [the council] just approved the neighborhood plan a year ago. When you see the bulldozers tearing down 11 houses those who aren't on the listserves are going to be upset about what is going on here. Press says the neighborhood strongly in support, that isn't true. Those of use on sounding board, trying to get something that resembled some piece of our neighborhood plan. He says there is no list of why we are going against the plan - it just says that it merits an exception. This doesn't conform with plan.
Patrick McDonnell - President of the Tenney Lapham Neighborhood Association - He says that the neighborhood struggled mightily with respect to the project. He says first Michael Matty presented a project and more recently he started working with Storehouse. He points out that just last year the Council approved the neighborhood plan which was an update after 13 years of the old plan. The neighborhood plan called for a vision for the restoration and rehabilitation of the traditional built environment, but also wanted infill in other areas that were not traditionally built out. It was a conundrum - two conflicting ouftcomes - Gorham St had much to applaud with the restoration of houses in a federally recognized historic district, they liked the reduction in density with removal of rooming houses - but with Johnson St it was the opposite of what we were looking for. Many still think the properties should be preserved. But, other aspects such as increased owner occupancy, rehab and restoration of the properties is also in the plan, but these properties would likely be at the bottom of the list. The properties would just continue to decline. So, fair expectation to have a developer do a reinvestment. Also interested in more working people and young families moving to the neighborhood. Section 42 was very compelling to many in the neighborhood. Quality of construction will be far superior to the standard market rate housing. Thinks it will bring more reinvestment. Restoration of green space from backyard parking was also a value. Modification from one to two developers and the way they split the project speaks to each of their strengths. Michael Matty got a historic preservation award from the Historic Trust and Stonehouse has a good track record. The demolition of the traditional built out block is not something we want you to think is a precedent or green light for any and all proposals that might come down the pike. Emailed a one page position paper with reasons for exemption to the neighborhood plan.
3 others in support - Randy Bruce [the architect], Michael Matty, Richard Linster
MOTION
Alder Bruer - He moved approval of the Plan Commission recommendation substitute with addendum to include additional conditions in number 5 which the alders have on their desks. Not available to the public, of course.
QUESTIONS OF STAFF
Rhodes-Conway - Asked about the open space for the project all being located on the historic properties and how that impacts the historic value of structures or how it will impact the historic district.
Brad Murphy says that the largest amount of open space is on northern half but thinks it is good that they are eliminating the surface parking and restoring the homes. He also says that the side and front yards of the Johnson St. properties are attractively landscaped. [For a project on the edge of town!] He says the houses are late 1800's to early 1900's houses and they are generally in not good shape. They are deteriorating, some could be restored if you threw enough money at them. They are not structurally unsound. In reviewing the project, Landmarks recommended it not be approved, UDC and PLan recommended approval because of benefits of the project. They have no concerns about the project being approved based on UDC and Plan recognizing the loss of 11 homes in exchange for affordable units, underground parking and restoration of the houses.
DISCUSSION
Rhodes-Conway - Says her concerns is the same as the last speaker, and that is the precedent and not following the neighborhood plan. She has no problem with the project, but problem with regularly going against approved neighborhood plans. If the neighborhood is in support and have a reason to support it it hard to not support that, but doesn't like the precedent to go against neighorhood plan.
Kerr said that Plan Commission wrestled with issue of demolition, but required that for the 8 homes to be restored, they took the landmarks commission recommendation to go to state historical preservation officer or landmarks commission. Plan commission did take into consideration what Landmarks said.
Rummel respects both developers and says they did fantastic projects in her neighborhood. She has a problem with saying that the houses have outlived their useful economic life. There's more to it than that, the previous owner allowed these houses to deteriorate (tragically), they assembled the properties. She says they are always on alert and that is why they created a neighborhood conservation district. She says that this is a precedent no matter what you call it. Seen the neighborhood change a block at a time and wouldn't want it in her district. Can't support it.
Maniaci - alot of work and input from many people over 6 - 9 months, project provides high quality affordable workforce housing that replaces rundown workforce neighborhood. The project is crafted to the needs of the neighborhood. Everything out her front window will be torn down but she still approves it. The project was thoroughly worked on by the neighborhood, she thinks this is housing the neighborhood needs, for people who want to stay in the neighborhood that will be priced out. Wants people to support it.
Schumacher asks about substitute - Staff says they and the developers are comfortable with condition number 5 in the report (in the packet). Schumacher says it is a great project, says its a good developer that will invest and in the future people won't want hese buildings torn down. He also says it is very affordable housing for the downtown area and thanked the alder for taking leadership and Kerr for showing him how to be on the plan commission. [Ok, this is what he thinks is very affordable: Efficiency $575, 1 bedroom $640 - $740, 2 bedroom $770 - 865, 3 bedroom $885. Ok, the 3 bedroom is a good price, but there are only 9 of them. The units will be available for people making up to: Efficiency $27 - 32K, 1 bedroom $31 - $36K, 2 bedroom $34 - 41K, 3 bedrooms $38 - 46K. And, I have to say, I'm curious, what leadership did Bridget display here? The project was through the neighborhood process before she was elected and she missed all the sounding board meetings.]
Rummel was the only audible "no" on a voice vote.
Read more!
[I think this was the toughest project I ever had to face as an alder, the Edgewater would have been even more challenging. The project is a great project, it just belongs 3 blocks to the south, where it would be consistent with the neighborhood plan, not conflict with the character of the neighborhood and it would have been able to be more dense. I convinced myself to vote both for and against the project several times. The loss of the houses was tough, the project was good, the location was wrong. And it doesn't comply with the neighborhood plan and comprehensive plan.]
PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Helen Bradbury - Stonehouse Development - in support - Said she develops section 42 affordable housing, she is very grateful to have support of TLNA, talks about the amazing number of hours of work listening to their story and tweaking the project, and says that it is a better project as a result. She had 3 main issues to consider:
1 - There is a huge need for workforce housing in all of Madison and specifically in this area. Their project Park Central [1100 E Wilson by Central Park] has a waiting list of 100 people.
2 - She explains the type of property that they are talking about. It is high quality, green development and should be an asset to Johnson St. Stonehouse will be the long term property management. This is their 5th project in the city.
3 - She says the houses that they are forced to take down have outlived their useful economic lives. She says the target market is just no longer there - they were student housing and the students have left. Hopes project will revitalize the area. She says that the project has front porches so have the pedestrian residential feel and feel it will help the E Johnson St. businesses.
Rich Arneson - Stonehouse Development and the easel for Helen Bradbury's presentation - Describes the project: 3 buildings, 3 stories, site plan developed with neighborhood, changed multiple times to fit with existing neighborhood as much as possible, underground parking, courtyards in the back, shared green space with Gorham street, some gardens for residents, some gardens will be accessible, 1st floor all have private entrances and are 2 story and have condo feel, large porches to continue historic feel, green built building certified, Madison Environmental Group will do a LEEDS feasibility study, they have received tax credits, hope to get project going in gloomy economic climate. He says that Randy Bruce the architect and Michael Matty from Renaissance Property who is the developer/rehab person for the Northern half of the property.
David Waugh is in opposition. He's lived in the neighborhood for 17 years, he's the Vice President of the Tenney Lapham Neighborhood Association. Doesn't want to be in opposition of the project. Developers did a fantastic job and there is much to be desired in the project. They did their due diligence and worked properly with the neighborhood. However, the recently adopted neighborhood plan wanted infill in targeted areas. He would love the development to be moved two blocks and then would support it. Was on the sounding board that reviewed the project which had numerous meetings. He says most people on the sounding board in opposition of the plan. Nothing in the project goes along with the neighborhood plan which is his number one concern. You [the council] just approved the neighborhood plan a year ago. When you see the bulldozers tearing down 11 houses those who aren't on the listserves are going to be upset about what is going on here. Press says the neighborhood strongly in support, that isn't true. Those of use on sounding board, trying to get something that resembled some piece of our neighborhood plan. He says there is no list of why we are going against the plan - it just says that it merits an exception. This doesn't conform with plan.
Patrick McDonnell - President of the Tenney Lapham Neighborhood Association - He says that the neighborhood struggled mightily with respect to the project. He says first Michael Matty presented a project and more recently he started working with Storehouse. He points out that just last year the Council approved the neighborhood plan which was an update after 13 years of the old plan. The neighborhood plan called for a vision for the restoration and rehabilitation of the traditional built environment, but also wanted infill in other areas that were not traditionally built out. It was a conundrum - two conflicting ouftcomes - Gorham St had much to applaud with the restoration of houses in a federally recognized historic district, they liked the reduction in density with removal of rooming houses - but with Johnson St it was the opposite of what we were looking for. Many still think the properties should be preserved. But, other aspects such as increased owner occupancy, rehab and restoration of the properties is also in the plan, but these properties would likely be at the bottom of the list. The properties would just continue to decline. So, fair expectation to have a developer do a reinvestment. Also interested in more working people and young families moving to the neighborhood. Section 42 was very compelling to many in the neighborhood. Quality of construction will be far superior to the standard market rate housing. Thinks it will bring more reinvestment. Restoration of green space from backyard parking was also a value. Modification from one to two developers and the way they split the project speaks to each of their strengths. Michael Matty got a historic preservation award from the Historic Trust and Stonehouse has a good track record. The demolition of the traditional built out block is not something we want you to think is a precedent or green light for any and all proposals that might come down the pike. Emailed a one page position paper with reasons for exemption to the neighborhood plan.
3 others in support - Randy Bruce [the architect], Michael Matty, Richard Linster
MOTION
Alder Bruer - He moved approval of the Plan Commission recommendation substitute with addendum to include additional conditions in number 5 which the alders have on their desks. Not available to the public, of course.
QUESTIONS OF STAFF
Rhodes-Conway - Asked about the open space for the project all being located on the historic properties and how that impacts the historic value of structures or how it will impact the historic district.
Brad Murphy says that the largest amount of open space is on northern half but thinks it is good that they are eliminating the surface parking and restoring the homes. He also says that the side and front yards of the Johnson St. properties are attractively landscaped. [For a project on the edge of town!] He says the houses are late 1800's to early 1900's houses and they are generally in not good shape. They are deteriorating, some could be restored if you threw enough money at them. They are not structurally unsound. In reviewing the project, Landmarks recommended it not be approved, UDC and PLan recommended approval because of benefits of the project. They have no concerns about the project being approved based on UDC and Plan recognizing the loss of 11 homes in exchange for affordable units, underground parking and restoration of the houses.
DISCUSSION
Rhodes-Conway - Says her concerns is the same as the last speaker, and that is the precedent and not following the neighborhood plan. She has no problem with the project, but problem with regularly going against approved neighborhood plans. If the neighborhood is in support and have a reason to support it it hard to not support that, but doesn't like the precedent to go against neighorhood plan.
Kerr said that Plan Commission wrestled with issue of demolition, but required that for the 8 homes to be restored, they took the landmarks commission recommendation to go to state historical preservation officer or landmarks commission. Plan commission did take into consideration what Landmarks said.
Rummel respects both developers and says they did fantastic projects in her neighborhood. She has a problem with saying that the houses have outlived their useful economic life. There's more to it than that, the previous owner allowed these houses to deteriorate (tragically), they assembled the properties. She says they are always on alert and that is why they created a neighborhood conservation district. She says that this is a precedent no matter what you call it. Seen the neighborhood change a block at a time and wouldn't want it in her district. Can't support it.
Maniaci - alot of work and input from many people over 6 - 9 months, project provides high quality affordable workforce housing that replaces rundown workforce neighborhood. The project is crafted to the needs of the neighborhood. Everything out her front window will be torn down but she still approves it. The project was thoroughly worked on by the neighborhood, she thinks this is housing the neighborhood needs, for people who want to stay in the neighborhood that will be priced out. Wants people to support it.
Schumacher asks about substitute - Staff says they and the developers are comfortable with condition number 5 in the report (in the packet). Schumacher says it is a great project, says its a good developer that will invest and in the future people won't want hese buildings torn down. He also says it is very affordable housing for the downtown area and thanked the alder for taking leadership and Kerr for showing him how to be on the plan commission. [Ok, this is what he thinks is very affordable: Efficiency $575, 1 bedroom $640 - $740, 2 bedroom $770 - 865, 3 bedroom $885. Ok, the 3 bedroom is a good price, but there are only 9 of them. The units will be available for people making up to: Efficiency $27 - 32K, 1 bedroom $31 - $36K, 2 bedroom $34 - 41K, 3 bedrooms $38 - 46K. And, I have to say, I'm curious, what leadership did Bridget display here? The project was through the neighborhood process before she was elected and she missed all the sounding board meetings.]
Rummel was the only audible "no" on a voice vote.
Read more!
CC Recap - Chronic Nuisance Ordinance
The Equal Opportunities Commission was shut out of the original process, promised that they could have their say and asked to report back to the council, then when it comes back, people decide its not the right time. How does that saying go "justice delayed is . . ."
EARLY PUBLIC COMMENT
Carousel Bayrd came to the meeting, she was supposed to home on bed rest, but here to talk about the Chronic Nuisance Ordinance representing the Equal Opportunities Commission. They had 7 recommendations, 4 are not contested and affirmed by city attorney.
- (3)(a)6. and 3(b)3.b. When landlord has to come up with remedies to solve the problem, they can only evict if there are no other alternatives . Can't evict if there are feasible alternatives.
- (6)(a) Expands retaliation protection beyond those (and their families) who are evicted, but also to those who are not evicted. The protection is for those who call the police or on whom the police were called but are not evicted and continue to live on the property..
- (6)a. Removes the language that allows the landlord to non-renew in retaliation. The removal of this language just says that the landlord can non-renew a lease for any reason except retaliation or discrimination.
Other pieces
Carousel also talked about one of the changed that she felt was important that the city attorney opposed:
- (3)(b)2. - She says that there should not be an exception that allows discretion to decide if domestic abuse cases qualify as a nuisance action. She says it will have a chilling effect. She says the loophole is a problem, not necessarily with this staff, but it could have a chiling effect.
[Note: Carousel testified early, the council dealt with several other issues and then they went back to this issue.]
MOTION
Jed moves to place on file.
PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Tom McKenna - Orchard Ridge
Says the original ordinance has real teeth to go after bad landlords. The bad landlords were not proactive in going after violence, prostitiuion, drug deals. There has been no misuse of the ordinance. It has only been used 8 times. Says if you must tinker with the ordinance, please follow the report of the City Attorney's office. [Making policy again!] He says she makes a persuasive argument of what to change and what not to change. Use that as your guideline. Points out the ordinance repeals itself 5 months from now. Asked them not to spend alot of time on this now, do an up and down vote and more on to more important things.
Lisa Subeck - In opposition
Opposes amendments, lives on SW side of town, struggles with challenging situations, dealt with incredible challenges and credits the ordinances, plus other factors for changes in the neighborhood. Landlords have something over thier heads and it is changing their behavior. She says she looked at the changes as a resident and someone who used to be a landlord who dealt with challenging populations. Extremely hesitent to have actual charges by DA, this is about behavior, doesn't care if filed charges, what she cares about is the police calls. Talks about an apartment by her and says it was a nuisance and made her feel unsafe. Multitude of police calls shows a pattern of behavior. She says she thinks EOC is trying to protect people with a criminal background. This isn't about innocent until proven guilty. This is about problems in the neighborood and this ordingnace gives teeth to that. If they require charges it may mean waiting months. Domestic Violence issue is a tough one for her. She thinks people should feel comfortable to call police, doesn't think this ordinance changes that - doesn't care if it is Domestic Violence or other noise, if the police are called its a nuisance. She says, as her grandma says "If it aint broke don't fix it."
Nancy Jensen, AASCW registered but I didn't hear if it was in support or opposition. Likely opposition.
DISCUSSION
Solomon - Wants to set the record straight about the EOC and says people are re-writing history. Reminds people what happened. Mayor came to EOC and asked them not to act, because the ordinance was still under review and getting redrafted. The final draft came out and EOC didn't get to act, they never got to see the ordinance. Solomon pushed for referral back to EOC for that reason. EOC is getting their chance to look at the ordinance. He says the reason it took so long is his fault. He met with City Attorney's office and tried to figure out language to address needs of both sides. [What? Negotiating with the city attorney's office on a policy to come up with something they can agree to? Anyone find that odd?] He says an effort was made. EOC would have had it done months ago. This is not EOC rewriting history - they should have had this opportunity in the first place.
Solomon talks about the three concerns that the city attorney's office has:
- (2)(a)2. EOC wanted a higher burden of proof when determining that a property is a Chronic Nuisance Property. He said there should at least be charges filed instead of just an arrest or police call. He says if there is a reason why charges aren't filed, might that not be a reason not to make the property a Chronic Nuisance Property? He says we should use the same standard.
[Note, the city attorney's memo says that this higher burden of proof is problematic because "The judge has to be presented with sufficient facts and must have a substantial basis for believeing that probable cause exists." Pesky facts, who need 'em? Apparently not the city attorney's office.]
- (2)(c) Required charges to be filed Second change, arrest or referral of charges with no charges filed. City Attorney concerned about enforcement by an independent agency. Flip side is the same arguement he just made. He wants the ordinance to be a useful tool. But it should be parallel to our justice system standards.
-(3)(b)2. Domestic Abuse issue. He says Carousel spoke well to it. Doesn't know why you'd have that exception. Talks to Allied Drive residents about safety and security and lots of people are afraid to call the police. Why would we have that chilling affect, its already a problem. These three changes are reasonable, understands why City Attorney has concerns, but he reminds people EOC didn't tear this apart, they supported it.
Schumacher - supports place on file. Sunset is chance to revisit. Was initially skeptical of ordinance but used it in his district. A new owner of property that had problems and he said just raising the fact that there was an ordinance made them realize that the city has become more serious about these issues. Urges people to keep it as is, changes don't add value and when it comes to filing charges, DAs office is understaffed and many crimes don't end up with charges being filed and doesn't want community to lose out.
Bruer - Solomon deserves battle pay. He shares history [or at least his version]. This ordinance was considered d.o.a., former alder who said that it could never come back from the dead, another said it would be nothing short of a miracle if it passed - (Palm says he was a little more blatant than that) Bruer agrees but says he was being tactful. He says that they went through a number of meetings - 2 - 3 in support in the beginning but ended up with overwhelming support at the end. Appreciates that EOC didn't get to say what they wanted. Neighborhoods are in support of this. Apt Assoc in support. Protections built in. Domestic Violence groups said they ere ok with it and in support of it. He says this protects the quality of life of the constituents and neighborhoods. There were concerns about how it would be used, said if even remote undercurrent of abuse it would be repealed. He says the sunset was there for a reason and says they can talk about it at sunset time. He says there hasn't been one complaint on how this is being used. Said he would bring it back if he heard complaints [guess I need to talk to Alder Bruer] He says he could have filled chambers wilth supporters but discouraged people from doing that. He says in due respect to EOC, vote to place it on file and it will come back in 60 to 90 days and EOC will be able to respond then and be in the process. He says we'll bring in the community at that time. He says they built in the protections EOC wanted - some of the things they were asked to address were in the original framework. At the end of the day, what is the problem with waiting 90 days and we can assess and evaluate. If there have been downsides, he'd like to see them and hear them. Support placing on file and looks forward to working together to work with committees, commissions and board and take it up later. Don't amend and tinker until all committees have had a chance to look at again.
Sanborn - wants to make sure people know how important this is. There is a sunset. We can address concerns then. Some of the provisions recommended severely water down the ordinance, but some others water it down in lesser ways. In response to Alder Solomon, why not have the same standards? the answer is because the chronic nuisance isn't targeting them for trial and jail time, they are going after the owners and the poor job they are doing and that is why we have a different standard. Says it is an important difference. We have a criminal code and we wouldn't need a chronic nusiance ordinance if that took care of the problems. [i.e. the police can't jail people, so lets take away their homes instead? And we can do it with less effort.]
Clausius - supports place on file, with due respect to Solomon. No criticism or complaints on the ordinance. Dramatic testimony about how well it works. Says there was a subtle inference that it will lead to discrimination. Ask if any complaints - Lucia Nunez says they submitted a report to Mayor and leadership in November or October, no matches with housing complaints. Just took a look at additional properties and no new cases on that match the properties where it was used. [That's crazy, if there were complaints, they likely would not be filed with the EOC - plus people are notorious for not filing complaints in housing because they are too busy looking for new housing.] Clausius says if sunset in 5 months, just place on file.
Palm - unsure - one thing we could do is re-refer to committees then use the ordinance with the recommended changes as the basis for considering the changes and the sunset at the same time. Presumes that we will continue with the ordinance. No one is talking about any other changes. Why not have this as the basis for the future change that we have. Would not throw out what is already done. No need to recreate and put back through the committees - it would be more logical to refer to different committees with changes to sunset provision and then come back as the reauthorization.
RHODES-CONWAY SUBSTITUTE MOTION
Rhodes-Conway - On the principle placing it on file is adding insult to injury. We did injure our public process when we ignored the EOC. We did get something good with the ordinance, where applied the ordinance was done well and had a positive impact. We specifically asked EOC and told them not to worry and said that we would listen to them. Its insulting to the committee to ignore them now. Open to Palm's suggestion to refer and use this as a basis for future work.
She moves a substitute to accept the four changes that the City Attorney has no objections to. [Should be non-controversial right? Wrong.] She suggested that the other three recommended changes should be discussed with sunset and that they could introduce those three changes at the next council meeting.
SANBORN AMENDMENT TO RHODES-CONWAY SUBSTITUTE MOTION
Sanborn amends it to take 2 of the 4 amendments out. The 3(b)3.b. and second 6a change. Says he is ok with the retaliaiton issue, just not when it comes to automatic renewals of leases.
Kerr asks for clarification. Mayor says city attorney understands it.
City attorney says - The montion not is the 7 recommendations by EOC, minus the three that the City Attorney's office had issues with, minus (3)(b)3.b. removed and the second (6)(a) provision. Confusion ensues again . . . Kerr says its crazy . . . basically, 2 of the seven changes are to be approved (3)(a)6. (eviction) and the first change to (6)(a) (retaliation).
Sanborn speaks to amendment. He thinks the two he picked out waters down the ordinance. Many reasons why you wouldn't renew a lease. Also, second change takes choices away from the landlord. Other changes are worthwhile and don't water down the ordinance.
Solomon - doesn't agree. Asks them to read (3)(b)3.b. carefully. Wants eviction to be the last possible strategy. Still supports the ordinance. Eviction just creates another problem. Its not like people just disappear from the planet, creates homelessness or makes parents drag children around place to place. If eviciton is the sole remedy, do it. If can't find alternative, do it. Reminds them that the city attorney's office is ok with this change. Doesn't agree that this creates a standard that failure to renew is automatically considered retaliation . . . it just doesn't speak to it at all, leaving it up to the courts to decide. Both of the changes are good additional protections but don't water down the ordinance.
Schumacher - will support the amendment to put this to rest, otherwise won't support substitute. Still not clear what problem they are trying to solve. No EOC problems, police say that it works - why are we changing something that is working well and we have a sunset. Its just an ideaological issue. Still want to place on file and wait for sunset.
Cnare asks if the two issues make a difference - City attorney says ordinance as it exists works. 4 changes didn't think made a substantial difference. Adopting 2 of the 4 also doesn't make a substantial difference.
Bruer - says this is a solution chasing after a problem. In reality, in next 90 days we'll go through the whole committee process. People are worried about due process, can't appreciate shear numbers of people who support this across the city. The accusation was that it would be wholesale use of the ordinance, but says that the proof in the pudding. Says landlords have had a change in perspective or change in approach to dealing with issues. Part of him says to vote against, in reality it doesn' t make any sense. Not trying to fix anything. Going after a ghost, closeted ghost when it came forward. Changes are inocuous, why are we doing this at 10:00 tonight without a broader discussion? EOC was punished for taking too long. Solomon battered and beaten on this, at the end of this, and if vote down the and then plac eon file, istn' that more rational as public process. We talk about due process and the fact that the report is before you speaks to the hard work - many of us are supporters of civil rights and social economic justice - sunset there so they can come back so it can be evaluated. No negative impacts, deterance factor, and downtown alders I'd be sensitive to the issues to the decay of housing stock in central city and seeing alarming trends starting to emerge and not surprised if we won't see this used in the central city. A solution chasing after a problem. Vote down both, place on file, extend a olive branch, understands whyeoc concerned, had legitimate concern, why change it tonight at 10:10. Vote down both. [Ugh, you kinda just got his stream of consciousness there cuz I didn't feel like taking the time to clean it up and make it readable. It is essentially what he said.]
Kerr says this is a rare moment where she agrees with Bruer not Solomon. She says she is a strong support of EOC getting a crack at this, but agrees the process was bad. Vote both down, then interested alders can bring it forward after the sunset. Vote it down, but is expecting that next time this comes around EOC is a full participant in the process. Lets not repeat the mistake.
Sanborn, supports placing it on file, only offered the amendment to the substitute. Preference is yes on amendment, no on subsitute, yes on place on file. [Again, good signaling to those who might not be paying attention.]
Rhodes-Conway - asks the City Attorney if underlying motion were to pass tonight, how long before can bring back the same language. He says 60 days. She concludes that the proper motion is to place on file without prejudice.
Pham-Remmele - Is frustrated, says they are looking for more problems, remembers when working on it alot of time, discussion and revision and is in the works, so i know that we are collecting data for neighborhood indicators there is no reason at this time to stop and change and modify. Speaks on behalf of the renters, landlords, homeowners and families who are being affected by negative activities in the neighborhood, a tool like this is not perfect but it helps enforcement but it makes people see there needs to be respoect. In 1975 was a mother with child with little income, all she could stay at was Cypress and even at that time it was infested with cimrinal activites and it was painful to see my 4 year old child see bad behaviors, room vibrating above her. This can make quality of life better, those who can afford move into a new place, move, but those who cannot have to put up with this daily. So when she sees that attempt to weaken and change the ordinace, they panic, we are trying to make people comfortable, does respect city attorneys and police officers and landlords who are working very hard in cooperation with us to provide service of housing to help us. Talks about a bag of beans, one might be rotten, need to separate the bad to protect the rest - don't waste more time, sunset and wait til then, move on.
Roll Call on Sanborn Amendment to Rhodes-Conway Substitute
AYE: Cnare, Compton, King, Palm, Sanborn, Schumacher, Skidmore
NO: Solomon, Verveer, Bidar-Sielaff, Clausius, Clear, Eagon, Kerr, Maniaci, Pham-Remmele, Rhodes-Conway, Rummel
Bruer originally passed, but voted No.
Fails 7 -13
No further discussion.
Roll Call on Substitute by Rhodes-Conway
AYE: Solomon, Verveer, Palm, Rhodes-Conway, Rummel
NO: Bidar-Sielaff, Bruer, Clausius, Clear, Cnare, Compton, Eagon, Kerr, King, Maniaci, Pham-Remmele, Sanborn, Schmidt, Schumacher, Skidmore.
Fails 5 - 15
They were back to the main motion to place it on file. Rhodes-Conway amends it to place on file without prejudice so they don't have to wait 60 days to consider the EOC amendments.
No discussion
Roll call passes 18 0 2 with Rhodes-Conway and Rummel voting no.
[This was painful to watch, there were so many misunderstandings about the criminal justice system and tenant-landlord issues. Not to mention the butchering of the history with the EOC being snubbed in the first place and then calling this a due process issue. Yes, it was adding insult to injury.]
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EARLY PUBLIC COMMENT
Carousel Bayrd came to the meeting, she was supposed to home on bed rest, but here to talk about the Chronic Nuisance Ordinance representing the Equal Opportunities Commission. They had 7 recommendations, 4 are not contested and affirmed by city attorney.
- (3)(a)6. and 3(b)3.b. When landlord has to come up with remedies to solve the problem, they can only evict if there are no other alternatives . Can't evict if there are feasible alternatives.
- (6)(a) Expands retaliation protection beyond those (and their families) who are evicted, but also to those who are not evicted. The protection is for those who call the police or on whom the police were called but are not evicted and continue to live on the property..
- (6)a. Removes the language that allows the landlord to non-renew in retaliation. The removal of this language just says that the landlord can non-renew a lease for any reason except retaliation or discrimination.
Other pieces
Carousel also talked about one of the changed that she felt was important that the city attorney opposed:
- (3)(b)2. - She says that there should not be an exception that allows discretion to decide if domestic abuse cases qualify as a nuisance action. She says it will have a chilling effect. She says the loophole is a problem, not necessarily with this staff, but it could have a chiling effect.
[Note: Carousel testified early, the council dealt with several other issues and then they went back to this issue.]
MOTION
Jed moves to place on file.
PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Tom McKenna - Orchard Ridge
Says the original ordinance has real teeth to go after bad landlords. The bad landlords were not proactive in going after violence, prostitiuion, drug deals. There has been no misuse of the ordinance. It has only been used 8 times. Says if you must tinker with the ordinance, please follow the report of the City Attorney's office. [Making policy again!] He says she makes a persuasive argument of what to change and what not to change. Use that as your guideline. Points out the ordinance repeals itself 5 months from now. Asked them not to spend alot of time on this now, do an up and down vote and more on to more important things.
Lisa Subeck - In opposition
Opposes amendments, lives on SW side of town, struggles with challenging situations, dealt with incredible challenges and credits the ordinances, plus other factors for changes in the neighborhood. Landlords have something over thier heads and it is changing their behavior. She says she looked at the changes as a resident and someone who used to be a landlord who dealt with challenging populations. Extremely hesitent to have actual charges by DA, this is about behavior, doesn't care if filed charges, what she cares about is the police calls. Talks about an apartment by her and says it was a nuisance and made her feel unsafe. Multitude of police calls shows a pattern of behavior. She says she thinks EOC is trying to protect people with a criminal background. This isn't about innocent until proven guilty. This is about problems in the neighborood and this ordingnace gives teeth to that. If they require charges it may mean waiting months. Domestic Violence issue is a tough one for her. She thinks people should feel comfortable to call police, doesn't think this ordinance changes that - doesn't care if it is Domestic Violence or other noise, if the police are called its a nuisance. She says, as her grandma says "If it aint broke don't fix it."
Nancy Jensen, AASCW registered but I didn't hear if it was in support or opposition. Likely opposition.
DISCUSSION
Solomon - Wants to set the record straight about the EOC and says people are re-writing history. Reminds people what happened. Mayor came to EOC and asked them not to act, because the ordinance was still under review and getting redrafted. The final draft came out and EOC didn't get to act, they never got to see the ordinance. Solomon pushed for referral back to EOC for that reason. EOC is getting their chance to look at the ordinance. He says the reason it took so long is his fault. He met with City Attorney's office and tried to figure out language to address needs of both sides. [What? Negotiating with the city attorney's office on a policy to come up with something they can agree to? Anyone find that odd?] He says an effort was made. EOC would have had it done months ago. This is not EOC rewriting history - they should have had this opportunity in the first place.
Solomon talks about the three concerns that the city attorney's office has:
- (2)(a)2. EOC wanted a higher burden of proof when determining that a property is a Chronic Nuisance Property. He said there should at least be charges filed instead of just an arrest or police call. He says if there is a reason why charges aren't filed, might that not be a reason not to make the property a Chronic Nuisance Property? He says we should use the same standard.
[Note, the city attorney's memo says that this higher burden of proof is problematic because "The judge has to be presented with sufficient facts and must have a substantial basis for believeing that probable cause exists." Pesky facts, who need 'em? Apparently not the city attorney's office.]
- (2)(c) Required charges to be filed Second change, arrest or referral of charges with no charges filed. City Attorney concerned about enforcement by an independent agency. Flip side is the same arguement he just made. He wants the ordinance to be a useful tool. But it should be parallel to our justice system standards.
-(3)(b)2. Domestic Abuse issue. He says Carousel spoke well to it. Doesn't know why you'd have that exception. Talks to Allied Drive residents about safety and security and lots of people are afraid to call the police. Why would we have that chilling affect, its already a problem. These three changes are reasonable, understands why City Attorney has concerns, but he reminds people EOC didn't tear this apart, they supported it.
Schumacher - supports place on file. Sunset is chance to revisit. Was initially skeptical of ordinance but used it in his district. A new owner of property that had problems and he said just raising the fact that there was an ordinance made them realize that the city has become more serious about these issues. Urges people to keep it as is, changes don't add value and when it comes to filing charges, DAs office is understaffed and many crimes don't end up with charges being filed and doesn't want community to lose out.
Bruer - Solomon deserves battle pay. He shares history [or at least his version]. This ordinance was considered d.o.a., former alder who said that it could never come back from the dead, another said it would be nothing short of a miracle if it passed - (Palm says he was a little more blatant than that) Bruer agrees but says he was being tactful. He says that they went through a number of meetings - 2 - 3 in support in the beginning but ended up with overwhelming support at the end. Appreciates that EOC didn't get to say what they wanted. Neighborhoods are in support of this. Apt Assoc in support. Protections built in. Domestic Violence groups said they ere ok with it and in support of it. He says this protects the quality of life of the constituents and neighborhoods. There were concerns about how it would be used, said if even remote undercurrent of abuse it would be repealed. He says the sunset was there for a reason and says they can talk about it at sunset time. He says there hasn't been one complaint on how this is being used. Said he would bring it back if he heard complaints [guess I need to talk to Alder Bruer] He says he could have filled chambers wilth supporters but discouraged people from doing that. He says in due respect to EOC, vote to place it on file and it will come back in 60 to 90 days and EOC will be able to respond then and be in the process. He says we'll bring in the community at that time. He says they built in the protections EOC wanted - some of the things they were asked to address were in the original framework. At the end of the day, what is the problem with waiting 90 days and we can assess and evaluate. If there have been downsides, he'd like to see them and hear them. Support placing on file and looks forward to working together to work with committees, commissions and board and take it up later. Don't amend and tinker until all committees have had a chance to look at again.
Sanborn - wants to make sure people know how important this is. There is a sunset. We can address concerns then. Some of the provisions recommended severely water down the ordinance, but some others water it down in lesser ways. In response to Alder Solomon, why not have the same standards? the answer is because the chronic nuisance isn't targeting them for trial and jail time, they are going after the owners and the poor job they are doing and that is why we have a different standard. Says it is an important difference. We have a criminal code and we wouldn't need a chronic nusiance ordinance if that took care of the problems. [i.e. the police can't jail people, so lets take away their homes instead? And we can do it with less effort.]
Clausius - supports place on file, with due respect to Solomon. No criticism or complaints on the ordinance. Dramatic testimony about how well it works. Says there was a subtle inference that it will lead to discrimination. Ask if any complaints - Lucia Nunez says they submitted a report to Mayor and leadership in November or October, no matches with housing complaints. Just took a look at additional properties and no new cases on that match the properties where it was used. [That's crazy, if there were complaints, they likely would not be filed with the EOC - plus people are notorious for not filing complaints in housing because they are too busy looking for new housing.] Clausius says if sunset in 5 months, just place on file.
Palm - unsure - one thing we could do is re-refer to committees then use the ordinance with the recommended changes as the basis for considering the changes and the sunset at the same time. Presumes that we will continue with the ordinance. No one is talking about any other changes. Why not have this as the basis for the future change that we have. Would not throw out what is already done. No need to recreate and put back through the committees - it would be more logical to refer to different committees with changes to sunset provision and then come back as the reauthorization.
RHODES-CONWAY SUBSTITUTE MOTION
Rhodes-Conway - On the principle placing it on file is adding insult to injury. We did injure our public process when we ignored the EOC. We did get something good with the ordinance, where applied the ordinance was done well and had a positive impact. We specifically asked EOC and told them not to worry and said that we would listen to them. Its insulting to the committee to ignore them now. Open to Palm's suggestion to refer and use this as a basis for future work.
She moves a substitute to accept the four changes that the City Attorney has no objections to. [Should be non-controversial right? Wrong.] She suggested that the other three recommended changes should be discussed with sunset and that they could introduce those three changes at the next council meeting.
SANBORN AMENDMENT TO RHODES-CONWAY SUBSTITUTE MOTION
Sanborn amends it to take 2 of the 4 amendments out. The 3(b)3.b. and second 6a change. Says he is ok with the retaliaiton issue, just not when it comes to automatic renewals of leases.
Kerr asks for clarification. Mayor says city attorney understands it.
City attorney says - The montion not is the 7 recommendations by EOC, minus the three that the City Attorney's office had issues with, minus (3)(b)3.b. removed and the second (6)(a) provision. Confusion ensues again . . . Kerr says its crazy . . . basically, 2 of the seven changes are to be approved (3)(a)6. (eviction) and the first change to (6)(a) (retaliation).
Sanborn speaks to amendment. He thinks the two he picked out waters down the ordinance. Many reasons why you wouldn't renew a lease. Also, second change takes choices away from the landlord. Other changes are worthwhile and don't water down the ordinance.
Solomon - doesn't agree. Asks them to read (3)(b)3.b. carefully. Wants eviction to be the last possible strategy. Still supports the ordinance. Eviction just creates another problem. Its not like people just disappear from the planet, creates homelessness or makes parents drag children around place to place. If eviciton is the sole remedy, do it. If can't find alternative, do it. Reminds them that the city attorney's office is ok with this change. Doesn't agree that this creates a standard that failure to renew is automatically considered retaliation . . . it just doesn't speak to it at all, leaving it up to the courts to decide. Both of the changes are good additional protections but don't water down the ordinance.
Schumacher - will support the amendment to put this to rest, otherwise won't support substitute. Still not clear what problem they are trying to solve. No EOC problems, police say that it works - why are we changing something that is working well and we have a sunset. Its just an ideaological issue. Still want to place on file and wait for sunset.
Cnare asks if the two issues make a difference - City attorney says ordinance as it exists works. 4 changes didn't think made a substantial difference. Adopting 2 of the 4 also doesn't make a substantial difference.
Bruer - says this is a solution chasing after a problem. In reality, in next 90 days we'll go through the whole committee process. People are worried about due process, can't appreciate shear numbers of people who support this across the city. The accusation was that it would be wholesale use of the ordinance, but says that the proof in the pudding. Says landlords have had a change in perspective or change in approach to dealing with issues. Part of him says to vote against, in reality it doesn' t make any sense. Not trying to fix anything. Going after a ghost, closeted ghost when it came forward. Changes are inocuous, why are we doing this at 10:00 tonight without a broader discussion? EOC was punished for taking too long. Solomon battered and beaten on this, at the end of this, and if vote down the and then plac eon file, istn' that more rational as public process. We talk about due process and the fact that the report is before you speaks to the hard work - many of us are supporters of civil rights and social economic justice - sunset there so they can come back so it can be evaluated. No negative impacts, deterance factor, and downtown alders I'd be sensitive to the issues to the decay of housing stock in central city and seeing alarming trends starting to emerge and not surprised if we won't see this used in the central city. A solution chasing after a problem. Vote down both, place on file, extend a olive branch, understands whyeoc concerned, had legitimate concern, why change it tonight at 10:10. Vote down both. [Ugh, you kinda just got his stream of consciousness there cuz I didn't feel like taking the time to clean it up and make it readable. It is essentially what he said.]
Kerr says this is a rare moment where she agrees with Bruer not Solomon. She says she is a strong support of EOC getting a crack at this, but agrees the process was bad. Vote both down, then interested alders can bring it forward after the sunset. Vote it down, but is expecting that next time this comes around EOC is a full participant in the process. Lets not repeat the mistake.
Sanborn, supports placing it on file, only offered the amendment to the substitute. Preference is yes on amendment, no on subsitute, yes on place on file. [Again, good signaling to those who might not be paying attention.]
Rhodes-Conway - asks the City Attorney if underlying motion were to pass tonight, how long before can bring back the same language. He says 60 days. She concludes that the proper motion is to place on file without prejudice.
Pham-Remmele - Is frustrated, says they are looking for more problems, remembers when working on it alot of time, discussion and revision and is in the works, so i know that we are collecting data for neighborhood indicators there is no reason at this time to stop and change and modify. Speaks on behalf of the renters, landlords, homeowners and families who are being affected by negative activities in the neighborhood, a tool like this is not perfect but it helps enforcement but it makes people see there needs to be respoect. In 1975 was a mother with child with little income, all she could stay at was Cypress and even at that time it was infested with cimrinal activites and it was painful to see my 4 year old child see bad behaviors, room vibrating above her. This can make quality of life better, those who can afford move into a new place, move, but those who cannot have to put up with this daily. So when she sees that attempt to weaken and change the ordinace, they panic, we are trying to make people comfortable, does respect city attorneys and police officers and landlords who are working very hard in cooperation with us to provide service of housing to help us. Talks about a bag of beans, one might be rotten, need to separate the bad to protect the rest - don't waste more time, sunset and wait til then, move on.
Roll Call on Sanborn Amendment to Rhodes-Conway Substitute
AYE: Cnare, Compton, King, Palm, Sanborn, Schumacher, Skidmore
NO: Solomon, Verveer, Bidar-Sielaff, Clausius, Clear, Eagon, Kerr, Maniaci, Pham-Remmele, Rhodes-Conway, Rummel
Bruer originally passed, but voted No.
Fails 7 -13
No further discussion.
Roll Call on Substitute by Rhodes-Conway
AYE: Solomon, Verveer, Palm, Rhodes-Conway, Rummel
NO: Bidar-Sielaff, Bruer, Clausius, Clear, Cnare, Compton, Eagon, Kerr, King, Maniaci, Pham-Remmele, Sanborn, Schmidt, Schumacher, Skidmore.
Fails 5 - 15
They were back to the main motion to place it on file. Rhodes-Conway amends it to place on file without prejudice so they don't have to wait 60 days to consider the EOC amendments.
No discussion
Roll call passes 18 0 2 with Rhodes-Conway and Rummel voting no.
[This was painful to watch, there were so many misunderstandings about the criminal justice system and tenant-landlord issues. Not to mention the butchering of the history with the EOC being snubbed in the first place and then calling this a due process issue. Yes, it was adding insult to injury.]
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CC Recap - Bike Lanes on Midvale?
Does Midvale need in street bike lanes?
From the council meeting last night.
PUBLIC TESTIMONY
About a dozen speakers came to speak about how they don't want bike lanes on Midvale. The reasons the listed off were:
- No one rides bikes on Midvale anyways.
- Bikes can ride on the sidewalks.
- Those riding to the UW can use the bike path.
- Side streets are adequate.
- Too much traffic for bikes to ride on Midvale.
- Survey of 85 residences on Midvale from Hammersly to Mineral Point showed [The survey was quite unscientific as many of the people who were against the project were people who showed up to city meetings.]
-- They talked to 44 or 52% of the residents
-- 91% are owner occupied, not rentals [They apparently didn't count renters as separate households, otherwise it would have been more like 50/50 renter to owner occupants with Sequoya Commons and other rentals]
-- 60% seniors,
-- 100% against lighting proposal [No longer being considered, no recommended by Board of Public Works.]
-- 100% don't want the bike lanes
-- 56% use street parking
-- 96% don't want parking restrictions
-- 100% don't want the median reduced in width
-- 100% don't want the width of the traffic lanes reduced
- If the median is reduced by 4 feet there will be more impervious surface (21,000 sq ft)
- Less space to put the snow
- Safety issues in the pass through areas
- This is a truck route
- Turning traffic will have to cross the bike lanes
- Will only be used 6 months of the year
- Will cost the taxpayers to paint the lanes and remove the curb cut. [Some claimed $3M but staff said $100,000]
- Widening the street will increase the speeding
- Don't want decrease in green space for aesthetic and environmental reasons
- Just because its a policy doesn't mean you have to do it, its not absolute
- They called the path a bridge to no where [UW to the Beltline?]
- They claimed that bikes don't want to use Midvale cuz it doesn't take bikers anywhere [who presumably are going the same place as the heavy traffic they were complaining about]
- Some testified not many people parked there and the bikes could just ride in the parking area.
- Didn't want 20% reduction of the median
- Cars speed, driving 40 but its posted at 30.
- Concerned about the trees being distressed from gypsy moths, wilt and emerald ash borer.
At one point the Mayor chastised the alders and told them to take extended side conversations off the floor of the council and to respect the public who was there. [Bruer just kept on talking . . . but I'm not sure if that is who the Mayor was chastising.] Despite the fact that this was a public hearing and people got 5 minutes instead of 3, almost every speaker went over their time and the Mayor didn't seem to limit them.
QUESTIONS OF SPEAKERS
Clear asks Don Severson - would neighbors restrict parking? Severson says that people were not in favor of restricting parking.
Schmidt asks Severson - What if the median is reduced by 2 feet instead of 4 feet - Severson says that won't help safety and he doesn't like it.
Pham-Remmele asks Severson - Impressed with info you handed out, how did you do it? - Severson says 2 volunteers went door to door and talked to the people. Some info gathered from when people testified 3 weeks ago at Board of Public Works.Thuy asked about a specific person who called her - Severson says she isn't in the survey. Thuy starts speaking to the pubic instead of asking questions as she should be doing - she thanks people for coming, says their input is important, tells them the Council is listening and asks them not to get frustrated. Then she asks if them if there is anything else he wants to say [The lamest question an alder can ask, unless they are just trying to extent the time for the speaker.]Severson adds everyone thinks the streets need to be repaired, should have been done correctly 10 years ago, pavement breaking up because no storm drains, no opposition to correcting the problem, but don't like bike lane and narrowing.
Pham-Remmele asks "young gentleman" to come up - The Mayor says the buys can speak from the side of the room where the man was, Thuy asks that he come to the other side of the room so she can see him, so she will recognize him the next time she sees him. People are laughing. Finally, she asks him about when his child is 4 years old and goes to school, will he be mad at the city if the project goes forward [Apparently, his wife is expecting their first child.] He says he won't be mad, but it is something to consider when kids go to schools. Says he will consider moving.Pham-Remmele asks how paying for these assessments will impact the speaker, what will you sacrifice? He says he will cut back on home improvements, bought a fixer upper.Pham-Remmele asks him not to move yet. Mayor clarifies he can move from podium as he walks away.
Pham-Remmele asks a guy named Crownower (sp?) to speak. She says he remembers him because he took her to task on an issues when she was first on the council. She asks him about why he mentioned Portland in his testimony, is it his dream city? He says no. She notes that he travelsalot and she asks why he lives here? He says his wife doesn't want to move. Thuy asks him to be succinct about how he feels when he walks around his neighborhood, after she insults him by saying she is here to represent her constituents and "unfortunately I represent you". He says that he lives in the area and the Mayor and engineering staff do not and they should listen to the people who live there and don't realize what the neighbors are talking about. He says Madison does not need a holocaust and he is worried about car accidents. Points out there have been 4 deaths in 3 years on the street. Says not everyone who drives a car was at the top of their class at school, many people don't follow the rules, eyesight problems, cell phones, not paying attention and can be distracted. To put bike lanes in middle of street is suicide. Good thing not many bikers useMidvale . Says bikers can ride on the sidewalk. Says one biker he talked to thought that was illegal. Talks about cops who teach bike safety who told kids to ride on the sidewalk. Says very few people walk any more and an accident between walker and bike will be rare and less danger. Says cars have quadrupled, bikes have decreased. Parking lots at high schools and they are full. Students are driving cars, not riding bikes.
Pham-Remmele asks another speaker about her comments about policy not being written in stone, and once again asks, "anything you want to add"? She reiterates what she already said, that after being in Human Resources she realizes guidelines are not absolutes, apply them to each situation on a case by case basis otherwise you have no credibility.Thuy asks if she is successful? She says yes, she has been successful in using this rule where she works.
Pham-Remmele asks people not to leave.
Bruer moved adoption, Clear second. Pham-Remmele interrupts and says she wants to ask questions. They have to explain to her that they need a motion to continue and that she can ask her questions next. [Seriously, after two years on the council, this is a pretty basic concept to understand, if she was a rookie, it might be confusing, but she's been on the council for a while.]
QUESTIONS OF STAFF
Pham-Remmele asks Rob Phillips (City Engineering) - What is she supposed to say to people who are frustrated and think the city doesn't listen. She accuses Alder Palm of pressing forward despite what residents said. She asks do we need to respect policy like golden rule, is this carved in stone, is it a done deal, is there flexibility? He says its up to common council to decide. He explains this has been the city policy to add the bike lane and says if the street was built today, there is no question in his mind that it would have bike lanes on the street. It is what they recommend on arterial streets. He refers to a handout and says that the boulevard is 26 feet today and the proposal would reduce it to 22 feet. He says the standard is 20 feet on most of boulevard streets. Says it doesn't compromise the median in terms of the function - vehicle can be staged with 22 foot median.
Pham-Remmele makes another comment, instead of question, that she is glad to hear that the policy can be considered and it is not carved in stone. Then she starts wondering aloud "What exactly are we voting now, are we still doing this? She says "I am very new to this". She says there are many road projects in her district She talks about the going from gold to platinum standards. Says people came and "bared their souls". Says her husband told her that Mayor Dave will be asking for a 20% reduction in the budget for next year. Mayor Dave interrupts at this point, reminding her that we are still on questions of staff.
Pham-Remmele starts asking another question of Rob Phillips about what message the city is sending to lay people. Mayor interrupts again, tells the alder she is asking a rhetorical question. Says she is asking a policy question that is for the council to decide and its not appropriate to ask staff. She presses on, says she wants to know what she is supposed to ask people. Mayor moves on to next alder.
Palm asks "Rob, Mr. Phillips, City Engineer" - Please explain the project and the assessment policy and how it gets changed with project and what happened with street lights? Rob Phillips explains there is a drainage problem in median, that they need to replace median curb and storm sewer. He says that this project opened up opportunity and that is how they got to adding a bike lane and lighting. He explains assessments are to adjoining property and are only for the curb on the outside of the street, not the median area. He explains they are two independent issues - street lighting was removed. Palm asks how much was of the assessment was for lighting and how much was the rest, he doesn't know exact numbers but says it is a "substantial reduction". He asks if the installation of lighting a policy or adhoc. He says it is not as common to make a change of that nature, but on a new project they would install the lighting.
Maniaci asks Phillips to compare to Gorham? She asks if they are just doing this because they want to or need to? Dan McCormick answers the questions. Says Gorham is parking and bike lane of 12 feet which is kind of narrow plus two traffic lanes and some sections are more narrow. He says thatMidvale is fairly typical of other roads in the area. Also points out similar bike paths like on E Wash and Univeristy Ave. He explains they are trying to get more space to make the street more multi-modal and for dedicated bike space. This was an opportunity and it was staff recommendation.
Maniaci - Does space as it exists preclude you from adding a bike lane. Or is it based on just a wider lane? [That question doesn't make any sense, because they are narrowing the driving lanes, so I'm confused.] McCormick says under today's conditions can't do a marked bike lane. Without the widening of the street, they wouldn't mark bike lanes and leave it the way it is.
Schmidt - Asks McCormick to elaborate on use of bikes on sidewalks. McCormick says sidewalks are not recommended. They can be used in res areas, but prohibited in commercial areas like Sequoya because of the conflict betweenpeds and bikes. Sidewalks are not a recommended bike facility unless used as an alternative when not comfortable or inadequate facilities on a roadway.
Schmidt - Asks Phillips how much adding the bike lanes will cost, he says $100,000 to add the bike lanes. Schmidt asks if it is possible to have 4 foot bike lane. He says the minimum for parking and a bike lane is 12 ft. He says they can do it, but it makes it a little more difficult in the winter. He says it is not as recommended because limited parking and active use of the parking, but it would beok. He suggested that in certain areas, Midvale School and Sequoya, maybe keep it at the 13 feet along the one side in those higher used area. Suggests that as a compromise.
Clear asked if narrowing motor vehicle lanes slightly will that slow down the traffic? Staff says it can, but its marginal and slows the traffic by about 2 -3 miles per hour. However, it can make some drivers more uncomfortable. Monroe is 9 feet, so speed is more relative to the street.
Clear - Asks where in the city there are equivalent boulevard 4 lane st with bike lanes - Schumacher suggests Northport. Staff says it was a 1950s era street where they weren't building bike lanes, so trying to retrofit them, but still want to keep the boulevard and keep it landscaped. E Wash is probably more likeMidvale.
Someone, perhaps Clear, asked how wide is the median on E Wash. Staff says 18 - 20 feet - actually narrower.
Cnare asked McCormick about the neighborhood feel of the street and the fact that there are not many bikes and what does it do to the road use and feel if add bike lanes? McCormick says some space taken from median but that staff wants to do landscaping plan and doesn't want to take out trees, in fact they would like to plant more. He says that you want bikes on the street. He notes this will move traffic 5 feet further away from the houses. This is a positive for the street, more multi-modal and more respectful of other users on the street.
Palm - makes a comment about how we don't know how to count peds and bikes which I didn't quite understand, but he asks if there is a standard for safety and how safety is impacted by the width of the bike lane. Staff says there is no standard, no hard numbers, but parking lane is 8 feet and there are two 12 foot parking lanes. Bikes use the street now, using the 8 feet, and they want to expand that area that bikes use and it should only increase the safety for the bikes. Also, parked cars will have more space to try to get in and out of the car if going to the library or get ice cream. He thinks it will also make users of the businesses more comfortable and more likely to use the businesses.
Palm asks about the intersections and pass throughs. Staff says that the cross over point is getting narrow, but space for them to angle their cars to cross. He says 22 feet is wide enough for a car to cross in two stages. It will be a new experience for drivers. He says he could go with compromise but still give them a 1 or 2 foot difference, it doesn't put them over the edge like an 18 foot median might.
Rummel asks McCormick about resticting parking during rush hour - did BPW or neighborhood meeting address this issue? Phillips says didn't propose it, nor does he recommend it. He thinks it would require a new level of enforcement. Rummel notes that E Wash added bike lanes and more people bike it. And its a more crazy street to bike on . . .
DISCUSSION
Schmidt makes an amendment to change the bike lane to 4 feet instead of 5 feet, with a few exceptions where there is more parking and use of the street. He says he is making the amendment to balance the competing desires of the neighborhood. He understands the wide median, it is a feature, but at the same time want to encourage multi-modal transportation. Talks about striping the traffic lane on another road and how it helped slow people down. He thinks its good to narrow the drive lanes and put in the bike lanes.
The amendment is not considered friendly.
Solomon - thanks people who came out. Supports amendment, thinks comments and concerns were good. Explains that the area under discussion is in district 10, 11 and 20. No residents in his district were concerned about it, but his folks wanted to make sure the bike lane was included. There is a mix of opinions. He is concerned about the bikers on the sidewalk - especially for children who don't see cars coming out of driveways. Agrees with traffic engineering that more space and striping will increase safety. Likes compromise, cuz addresses some conserns about the median. Even 22 feet would have been fine, its a huge median. If built today we'd be jumping for joy to keep that much green space and we'd all be supporting a bike lane. Thanks people who testified again, thanks Alder Schmidt and wants people to support the amendment.
Schumacher - asks if staff could weigh in - Rob says support the amendment. McCormick also supports.
Compton wants a 5 foot bike lane. Understands people don't want to lose median, but she doesn't want to lose a biker. What if child gets hurt when run into a parked car - not concerned about good bikers, wants safety of all users to be considered. Says she can't support going from 5 to 4 when we have an opportunity to keep the 5 foot lane and still have a nice terrace. She says this is a neighborhood street and it will take people to Hilldale and Library and bookstore and we want all levels of bikers to use the bike lane and she would rather they did not use the sidewalk.
Clear supports trying to satisfy the people who came, but people aren't happy with compromise (safety) and don't want it, so he won't support it cuz of what Compton just said.
Schmidt says that with the exceptions (schools and Midvale Commons) the cars will not usually be parked on the street and in reality, the bikes will have even more space. He said he knows his "compromise" this doesn't satisfy, but he can't see making a 13 ft strip that is not used 90% of the time.
Palm asks staff what happens if more development? Staff says compromise recognizes areas with more parking, but it won't work if there are more intensive uses. However, he is not aware of areas for intensive redevelopment.
Solomon says this is not a compromise for the sake of compromise. This allows for green space and wider median where they can, wider bike lanes where needed.
Compton to staff asks about parking where 4 foot bike lanes are. McCormick says they wouldn't want that to restrict the parking. He says they would still mark a bike lane the full parking lane but just 4 feet and would still meet the standards. He says single family residential is longer term parking with with infrequent turn over so not as much risk of car doors conflicting with bikes passing by. Given balancing the concerns, it seems like a reasonable compromise, but in higher use areas they do need the extra space.
Compton - We have more bikers than before, will have more bikes in the future, but will also have more cars, and don't want to come back and try to make the median wider later. Reminds them that this could be "one child".
Schmidt - Submits that this road is a major artery only during rush hour and drops quite a bit during the rest of the day. He thinks the major redevelopment already happened, this is a single family residential area and only development will happen if they close a school or church. Points out neighborhood plans plan it as single family. Says it is important to think about one child. Right now we have 2 lane roads poorly marked, thinks they need to mark traffic lanes and keep them narrow.
Pham-Remmele - Says most children will use the sidewalks, doesn't think children will be in danger. Rare problems with cars parking. Lost - track - of - her - point - she says its about safety and if look at speeding and we are honest with ourselves . . . if that is what we want to do (bike path) then that is what we should do, just don't say its for the residents. Tells council members to justify it how you want but you can't have it both ways. [It was a little confusing.]
ROLL CALL ON SCHMIDT AMENDMENT
Aye: Solomon, Verveer, Bidar-Sielaff, Bruer, Clear, Cnare, Maniaci, Rummel, Sanborn, Schmidt, Schumacher
No: Clausius, Compton, Eagan, King, Palm, Pham-Remmele, Rhodes-Conway, Skidmore.
Abstain/Out of Room: Kerr
Passes 11 - 8
MAIN MOTION DISCUSSION
Palm - describes Board of Public Works meeting as a chaotic crowded meeting with discussion about street lights. BPW was listening to people who came, but knew of longstanding consistent policy on the bike paths and followed it, unlike the, street lights which was not the same kind of policy. So, they eliminate lighting and keep the bike path to cut the costs for the neighbors. Supports the bike lane, should do it, consistent with policy otherwise in 20 years would look back and wonder why we didn't do it. He says the city is adding bike paths at a high rate and this is a tremendous route. To say we don't need bike routes to get to libraries and schools or beltline is "crazy". Reminds people the bike lane won't impact assessments that residents are charged and heard that smaller medians would have limited effect on travel of cars. We are trying to encourage bikes to use our streets and minimize use of cars.
ROLL CALL: 18 Ayes, Pham-Remmele NO and Bidar-Sielaff meant to pass, said abstain, but corrected her vote to aye.
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From the council meeting last night.
PUBLIC TESTIMONY
About a dozen speakers came to speak about how they don't want bike lanes on Midvale. The reasons the listed off were:
- No one rides bikes on Midvale anyways.
- Bikes can ride on the sidewalks.
- Those riding to the UW can use the bike path.
- Side streets are adequate.
- Too much traffic for bikes to ride on Midvale.
- Survey of 85 residences on Midvale from Hammersly to Mineral Point showed [The survey was quite unscientific as many of the people who were against the project were people who showed up to city meetings.]
-- They talked to 44 or 52% of the residents
-- 91% are owner occupied, not rentals [They apparently didn't count renters as separate households, otherwise it would have been more like 50/50 renter to owner occupants with Sequoya Commons and other rentals]
-- 60% seniors,
-- 100% against lighting proposal [No longer being considered, no recommended by Board of Public Works.]
-- 100% don't want the bike lanes
-- 56% use street parking
-- 96% don't want parking restrictions
-- 100% don't want the median reduced in width
-- 100% don't want the width of the traffic lanes reduced
- If the median is reduced by 4 feet there will be more impervious surface (21,000 sq ft)
- Less space to put the snow
- Safety issues in the pass through areas
- This is a truck route
- Turning traffic will have to cross the bike lanes
- Will only be used 6 months of the year
- Will cost the taxpayers to paint the lanes and remove the curb cut. [Some claimed $3M but staff said $100,000]
- Widening the street will increase the speeding
- Don't want decrease in green space for aesthetic and environmental reasons
- Just because its a policy doesn't mean you have to do it, its not absolute
- They called the path a bridge to no where [UW to the Beltline?]
- They claimed that bikes don't want to use Midvale cuz it doesn't take bikers anywhere [who presumably are going the same place as the heavy traffic they were complaining about]
- Some testified not many people parked there and the bikes could just ride in the parking area.
- Didn't want 20% reduction of the median
- Cars speed, driving 40 but its posted at 30.
- Concerned about the trees being distressed from gypsy moths, wilt and emerald ash borer.
At one point the Mayor chastised the alders and told them to take extended side conversations off the floor of the council and to respect the public who was there. [Bruer just kept on talking . . . but I'm not sure if that is who the Mayor was chastising.] Despite the fact that this was a public hearing and people got 5 minutes instead of 3, almost every speaker went over their time and the Mayor didn't seem to limit them.
QUESTIONS OF SPEAKERS
Clear asks Don Severson - would neighbors restrict parking? Severson says that people were not in favor of restricting parking.
Schmidt asks Severson - What if the median is reduced by 2 feet instead of 4 feet - Severson says that won't help safety and he doesn't like it.
Pham-Remmele asks Severson - Impressed with info you handed out, how did you do it? - Severson says 2 volunteers went door to door and talked to the people. Some info gathered from when people testified 3 weeks ago at Board of Public Works.Thuy asked about a specific person who called her - Severson says she isn't in the survey. Thuy starts speaking to the pubic instead of asking questions as she should be doing - she thanks people for coming, says their input is important, tells them the Council is listening and asks them not to get frustrated. Then she asks if them if there is anything else he wants to say [The lamest question an alder can ask, unless they are just trying to extent the time for the speaker.]Severson adds everyone thinks the streets need to be repaired, should have been done correctly 10 years ago, pavement breaking up because no storm drains, no opposition to correcting the problem, but don't like bike lane and narrowing.
Pham-Remmele asks "young gentleman" to come up - The Mayor says the buys can speak from the side of the room where the man was, Thuy asks that he come to the other side of the room so she can see him, so she will recognize him the next time she sees him. People are laughing. Finally, she asks him about when his child is 4 years old and goes to school, will he be mad at the city if the project goes forward [Apparently, his wife is expecting their first child.] He says he won't be mad, but it is something to consider when kids go to schools. Says he will consider moving.Pham-Remmele asks how paying for these assessments will impact the speaker, what will you sacrifice? He says he will cut back on home improvements, bought a fixer upper.Pham-Remmele asks him not to move yet. Mayor clarifies he can move from podium as he walks away.
Pham-Remmele asks a guy named Crownower (sp?) to speak. She says he remembers him because he took her to task on an issues when she was first on the council. She asks him about why he mentioned Portland in his testimony, is it his dream city? He says no. She notes that he travelsalot and she asks why he lives here? He says his wife doesn't want to move. Thuy asks him to be succinct about how he feels when he walks around his neighborhood, after she insults him by saying she is here to represent her constituents and "unfortunately I represent you". He says that he lives in the area and the Mayor and engineering staff do not and they should listen to the people who live there and don't realize what the neighbors are talking about. He says Madison does not need a holocaust and he is worried about car accidents. Points out there have been 4 deaths in 3 years on the street. Says not everyone who drives a car was at the top of their class at school, many people don't follow the rules, eyesight problems, cell phones, not paying attention and can be distracted. To put bike lanes in middle of street is suicide. Good thing not many bikers useMidvale . Says bikers can ride on the sidewalk. Says one biker he talked to thought that was illegal. Talks about cops who teach bike safety who told kids to ride on the sidewalk. Says very few people walk any more and an accident between walker and bike will be rare and less danger. Says cars have quadrupled, bikes have decreased. Parking lots at high schools and they are full. Students are driving cars, not riding bikes.
Pham-Remmele asks another speaker about her comments about policy not being written in stone, and once again asks, "anything you want to add"? She reiterates what she already said, that after being in Human Resources she realizes guidelines are not absolutes, apply them to each situation on a case by case basis otherwise you have no credibility.Thuy asks if she is successful? She says yes, she has been successful in using this rule where she works.
Pham-Remmele asks people not to leave.
Bruer moved adoption, Clear second. Pham-Remmele interrupts and says she wants to ask questions. They have to explain to her that they need a motion to continue and that she can ask her questions next. [Seriously, after two years on the council, this is a pretty basic concept to understand, if she was a rookie, it might be confusing, but she's been on the council for a while.]
QUESTIONS OF STAFF
Pham-Remmele asks Rob Phillips (City Engineering) - What is she supposed to say to people who are frustrated and think the city doesn't listen. She accuses Alder Palm of pressing forward despite what residents said. She asks do we need to respect policy like golden rule, is this carved in stone, is it a done deal, is there flexibility? He says its up to common council to decide. He explains this has been the city policy to add the bike lane and says if the street was built today, there is no question in his mind that it would have bike lanes on the street. It is what they recommend on arterial streets. He refers to a handout and says that the boulevard is 26 feet today and the proposal would reduce it to 22 feet. He says the standard is 20 feet on most of boulevard streets. Says it doesn't compromise the median in terms of the function - vehicle can be staged with 22 foot median.
Pham-Remmele makes another comment, instead of question, that she is glad to hear that the policy can be considered and it is not carved in stone. Then she starts wondering aloud "What exactly are we voting now, are we still doing this? She says "I am very new to this". She says there are many road projects in her district She talks about the going from gold to platinum standards. Says people came and "bared their souls". Says her husband told her that Mayor Dave will be asking for a 20% reduction in the budget for next year. Mayor Dave interrupts at this point, reminding her that we are still on questions of staff.
Pham-Remmele starts asking another question of Rob Phillips about what message the city is sending to lay people. Mayor interrupts again, tells the alder she is asking a rhetorical question. Says she is asking a policy question that is for the council to decide and its not appropriate to ask staff. She presses on, says she wants to know what she is supposed to ask people. Mayor moves on to next alder.
Palm asks "Rob, Mr. Phillips, City Engineer" - Please explain the project and the assessment policy and how it gets changed with project and what happened with street lights? Rob Phillips explains there is a drainage problem in median, that they need to replace median curb and storm sewer. He says that this project opened up opportunity and that is how they got to adding a bike lane and lighting. He explains assessments are to adjoining property and are only for the curb on the outside of the street, not the median area. He explains they are two independent issues - street lighting was removed. Palm asks how much was of the assessment was for lighting and how much was the rest, he doesn't know exact numbers but says it is a "substantial reduction". He asks if the installation of lighting a policy or adhoc. He says it is not as common to make a change of that nature, but on a new project they would install the lighting.
Maniaci asks Phillips to compare to Gorham? She asks if they are just doing this because they want to or need to? Dan McCormick answers the questions. Says Gorham is parking and bike lane of 12 feet which is kind of narrow plus two traffic lanes and some sections are more narrow. He says thatMidvale is fairly typical of other roads in the area. Also points out similar bike paths like on E Wash and Univeristy Ave. He explains they are trying to get more space to make the street more multi-modal and for dedicated bike space. This was an opportunity and it was staff recommendation.
Maniaci - Does space as it exists preclude you from adding a bike lane. Or is it based on just a wider lane? [That question doesn't make any sense, because they are narrowing the driving lanes, so I'm confused.] McCormick says under today's conditions can't do a marked bike lane. Without the widening of the street, they wouldn't mark bike lanes and leave it the way it is.
Schmidt - Asks McCormick to elaborate on use of bikes on sidewalks. McCormick says sidewalks are not recommended. They can be used in res areas, but prohibited in commercial areas like Sequoya because of the conflict betweenpeds and bikes. Sidewalks are not a recommended bike facility unless used as an alternative when not comfortable or inadequate facilities on a roadway.
Schmidt - Asks Phillips how much adding the bike lanes will cost, he says $100,000 to add the bike lanes. Schmidt asks if it is possible to have 4 foot bike lane. He says the minimum for parking and a bike lane is 12 ft. He says they can do it, but it makes it a little more difficult in the winter. He says it is not as recommended because limited parking and active use of the parking, but it would beok. He suggested that in certain areas, Midvale School and Sequoya, maybe keep it at the 13 feet along the one side in those higher used area. Suggests that as a compromise.
Clear asked if narrowing motor vehicle lanes slightly will that slow down the traffic? Staff says it can, but its marginal and slows the traffic by about 2 -3 miles per hour. However, it can make some drivers more uncomfortable. Monroe is 9 feet, so speed is more relative to the street.
Clear - Asks where in the city there are equivalent boulevard 4 lane st with bike lanes - Schumacher suggests Northport. Staff says it was a 1950s era street where they weren't building bike lanes, so trying to retrofit them, but still want to keep the boulevard and keep it landscaped. E Wash is probably more likeMidvale.
Someone, perhaps Clear, asked how wide is the median on E Wash. Staff says 18 - 20 feet - actually narrower.
Cnare asked McCormick about the neighborhood feel of the street and the fact that there are not many bikes and what does it do to the road use and feel if add bike lanes? McCormick says some space taken from median but that staff wants to do landscaping plan and doesn't want to take out trees, in fact they would like to plant more. He says that you want bikes on the street. He notes this will move traffic 5 feet further away from the houses. This is a positive for the street, more multi-modal and more respectful of other users on the street.
Palm - makes a comment about how we don't know how to count peds and bikes which I didn't quite understand, but he asks if there is a standard for safety and how safety is impacted by the width of the bike lane. Staff says there is no standard, no hard numbers, but parking lane is 8 feet and there are two 12 foot parking lanes. Bikes use the street now, using the 8 feet, and they want to expand that area that bikes use and it should only increase the safety for the bikes. Also, parked cars will have more space to try to get in and out of the car if going to the library or get ice cream. He thinks it will also make users of the businesses more comfortable and more likely to use the businesses.
Palm asks about the intersections and pass throughs. Staff says that the cross over point is getting narrow, but space for them to angle their cars to cross. He says 22 feet is wide enough for a car to cross in two stages. It will be a new experience for drivers. He says he could go with compromise but still give them a 1 or 2 foot difference, it doesn't put them over the edge like an 18 foot median might.
Rummel asks McCormick about resticting parking during rush hour - did BPW or neighborhood meeting address this issue? Phillips says didn't propose it, nor does he recommend it. He thinks it would require a new level of enforcement. Rummel notes that E Wash added bike lanes and more people bike it. And its a more crazy street to bike on . . .
DISCUSSION
Schmidt makes an amendment to change the bike lane to 4 feet instead of 5 feet, with a few exceptions where there is more parking and use of the street. He says he is making the amendment to balance the competing desires of the neighborhood. He understands the wide median, it is a feature, but at the same time want to encourage multi-modal transportation. Talks about striping the traffic lane on another road and how it helped slow people down. He thinks its good to narrow the drive lanes and put in the bike lanes.
The amendment is not considered friendly.
Solomon - thanks people who came out. Supports amendment, thinks comments and concerns were good. Explains that the area under discussion is in district 10, 11 and 20. No residents in his district were concerned about it, but his folks wanted to make sure the bike lane was included. There is a mix of opinions. He is concerned about the bikers on the sidewalk - especially for children who don't see cars coming out of driveways. Agrees with traffic engineering that more space and striping will increase safety. Likes compromise, cuz addresses some conserns about the median. Even 22 feet would have been fine, its a huge median. If built today we'd be jumping for joy to keep that much green space and we'd all be supporting a bike lane. Thanks people who testified again, thanks Alder Schmidt and wants people to support the amendment.
Schumacher - asks if staff could weigh in - Rob says support the amendment. McCormick also supports.
Compton wants a 5 foot bike lane. Understands people don't want to lose median, but she doesn't want to lose a biker. What if child gets hurt when run into a parked car - not concerned about good bikers, wants safety of all users to be considered. Says she can't support going from 5 to 4 when we have an opportunity to keep the 5 foot lane and still have a nice terrace. She says this is a neighborhood street and it will take people to Hilldale and Library and bookstore and we want all levels of bikers to use the bike lane and she would rather they did not use the sidewalk.
Clear supports trying to satisfy the people who came, but people aren't happy with compromise (safety) and don't want it, so he won't support it cuz of what Compton just said.
Schmidt says that with the exceptions (schools and Midvale Commons) the cars will not usually be parked on the street and in reality, the bikes will have even more space. He said he knows his "compromise" this doesn't satisfy, but he can't see making a 13 ft strip that is not used 90% of the time.
Palm asks staff what happens if more development? Staff says compromise recognizes areas with more parking, but it won't work if there are more intensive uses. However, he is not aware of areas for intensive redevelopment.
Solomon says this is not a compromise for the sake of compromise. This allows for green space and wider median where they can, wider bike lanes where needed.
Compton to staff asks about parking where 4 foot bike lanes are. McCormick says they wouldn't want that to restrict the parking. He says they would still mark a bike lane the full parking lane but just 4 feet and would still meet the standards. He says single family residential is longer term parking with with infrequent turn over so not as much risk of car doors conflicting with bikes passing by. Given balancing the concerns, it seems like a reasonable compromise, but in higher use areas they do need the extra space.
Compton - We have more bikers than before, will have more bikes in the future, but will also have more cars, and don't want to come back and try to make the median wider later. Reminds them that this could be "one child".
Schmidt - Submits that this road is a major artery only during rush hour and drops quite a bit during the rest of the day. He thinks the major redevelopment already happened, this is a single family residential area and only development will happen if they close a school or church. Points out neighborhood plans plan it as single family. Says it is important to think about one child. Right now we have 2 lane roads poorly marked, thinks they need to mark traffic lanes and keep them narrow.
Pham-Remmele - Says most children will use the sidewalks, doesn't think children will be in danger. Rare problems with cars parking. Lost - track - of - her - point - she says its about safety and if look at speeding and we are honest with ourselves . . . if that is what we want to do (bike path) then that is what we should do, just don't say its for the residents. Tells council members to justify it how you want but you can't have it both ways. [It was a little confusing.]
ROLL CALL ON SCHMIDT AMENDMENT
Aye: Solomon, Verveer, Bidar-Sielaff, Bruer, Clear, Cnare, Maniaci, Rummel, Sanborn, Schmidt, Schumacher
No: Clausius, Compton, Eagan, King, Palm, Pham-Remmele, Rhodes-Conway, Skidmore.
Abstain/Out of Room: Kerr
Passes 11 - 8
MAIN MOTION DISCUSSION
Palm - describes Board of Public Works meeting as a chaotic crowded meeting with discussion about street lights. BPW was listening to people who came, but knew of longstanding consistent policy on the bike paths and followed it, unlike the, street lights which was not the same kind of policy. So, they eliminate lighting and keep the bike path to cut the costs for the neighbors. Supports the bike lane, should do it, consistent with policy otherwise in 20 years would look back and wonder why we didn't do it. He says the city is adding bike paths at a high rate and this is a tremendous route. To say we don't need bike routes to get to libraries and schools or beltline is "crazy". Reminds people the bike lane won't impact assessments that residents are charged and heard that smaller medians would have limited effect on travel of cars. We are trying to encourage bikes to use our streets and minimize use of cars.
ROLL CALL: 18 Ayes, Pham-Remmele NO and Bidar-Sielaff meant to pass, said abstain, but corrected her vote to aye.
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Common Council Recap
FAIL!
Check back later today. Went out after the meeting which lasted til midnight and just didn't get up on time this morning and had to water my plants and do a couple other things for a meeting.
Bottom line on the meeting is, lots of talking, everything passed except the EOC changes to the chronic nuisance ordinance. Some modifications to the sign ordinance. Will have the post up after lunch.
Read more!
Check back later today. Went out after the meeting which lasted til midnight and just didn't get up on time this morning and had to water my plants and do a couple other things for a meeting.
Bottom line on the meeting is, lots of talking, everything passed except the EOC changes to the chronic nuisance ordinance. Some modifications to the sign ordinance. Will have the post up after lunch.
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Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Cleaning Up the Lakes & Flooding Issues
Yesterday I wondered about this plan and voila!, it appeared in my inbox! (Thank you magic fairy!) Here's how the city is meeting minimal legal requirements. Its a little technical, but hang in there, its worth reading. Stormwater, large particles in stormwater, lake levels, phosphorus and other topics below. Is it enough?
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LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
While meeting the regulatory requirements listed below will improve the quality of stormwater that reaches the lakes, it is unlikely that the result will be a discernable difference in lake water quality. Other nutrient sources need to be addressed before there is a significant improvement in the area lakes. Major collaborative efforts such as the Yahara Lakes Legacy Partnership, which hopes to address both urban and rural sources, are vital in making progress towards noticeably cleaner lakes. However, at this time, the goal for lake quality has not been developed.
NR-216 and NR-151 Compliance
The City of Madison is currently permitted to discharge stormwater to “Waters of the State of Wisconsin” from our Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4), through a Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) permit. This permit is authorized under State Administrative Code NR-216. Both the Administrative Code and our permit require the City to take specific actions with regards to stormwater treatment, as listed in Administrative Code NR-151. The purpose of NR-151 is “to limit non-point runoff pollution in order to achieve water quality standards,” and requires that municipalities with a Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) permit be in compliance with the following:
1. Meet a 20% reduction of total suspended solids, compared to no controls, by 2008 (This has been met by the City of Madison.)
2. Meet a 40% reduction of total suspended solids, compared to no controls, by 2013
Other requirements of NR-151 include erosion and sediment control plans for construction sites as well as rigorous stormwater management targets for both new and redevelopment.
City Engineering staff estimate that with street sweeping and existing publicly owned detention basins, the City of Madison is currently controlling approximately 30% of the total suspended solids entering the local waterways. The City needs to increase its removal efficiency by another 10% by the year 2013. It is the belief of the City Engineering Division that compliance will not be achieved without the commitment of substantial resources in those areas that are not served by stormwater detention basins.
TMDL
A Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) is written for water bodies listed on the EPA’s 303d list of impaired waters, under the Clean Water Act. Currently, the Rock River is on the 303d list for sediment and phosphorous. Therefore, the portion of the City that is in the Rock River Watershed (all areas except the southwest corner, which drains to the Sugar River) is subject to the requirements of a TMDL, currently being written by the WDNR & EPA.
The TMDL will set water quality standards for all areas of the watershed discharging to the Rock River. The implementation portion of the TMDL will allocate the allowable load to the entities within that watershed, including municipalities with a WPDES permit, agricultural lands, sewage treatment plants, and some industrial point sources.
It is very likely that a TMDL will require more restrictive standards than the stormwater regulations in NR-216 or NR-151. Specifically, a restriction on the discharge of phosphorous to all regulated water bodies will almost certainly be established.
It may be in the best interest of the City of Madison for the City to submit a request for the establishment of a TMDL for the lakes in order to determine and address the phosphorus loads from urban areas versus that of agri-business. Unless the phosphorus loads from agri-business is addressed, the potential for reducing the nutrient loads to our lakes, and therefore water quality in the lakes in any substantial fashion is unlikely.
PRIORITIES
Stormwater Discharge.
It is the intent of City Engineering to prioritize water quality improvements that will bring the City into further compliance with NR-216, NR-151 and any future TMDL. Expenditures shall be quantified and compared in order to determine the greatest reduction in suspended solids. In areas of the City developed within the past few decades, detention basins serve to treat stormwater runoff before it reaches the lakes.
At this time, City Engineering believes that the installation of proprietary catch basins in Aldermanic Districts 2, 4, 6, 8 and 13 (Major Basins MO 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, and 08) show the best promise to attain compliance with NR-151. Unfortunately, street sweeping has not proved effective in meeting the regulatory requirements.
In addition, the installation of retention basins is being considered for Northland Manor Park (AD 18), Delaware/Wheeler (AD 18) and at 2401 McKenna Boulevard. The City shall need to certify to the WDNR by March 31, 2011 regarding compliance initiatives. Stormwater models SLAMM (Source Loading and Management Model) or P8 will be used by City Staff to determine compliance.
The removal of visible pollutants not regulated by state code, such as trash and sand, shall receive a lower priority, but will preferably be addressed as a part of sediment removal. Where appropriate and in conjunction with street reconstruction projects, City Engineering shall install stormwater treatment devices that effectively remove sand and trash. If there is sufficient homeowner interest and where feasible, City Engineering shall also provide cost sharing for the installation of rain gardens in street terraces to filter street water and improve infiltration.
Another aspect of water quality that does not fall under state regulations is the view from the shoreline. Floating weeds and trash contribute to a poor perception of the actual quality of the lakes. Keeping shoreline areas clear of debris is an important step towards improving the public perception and enjoyment of the lakes. In 2008, City Engineering contracted with a company to clean up the shoreline along Monona Bay on a monthly basis and after major rainstorms. City Engineering is also working with Dane County to manage a barge that can collect trash from private piers as well as trash and weeds floating in the water. It is important to note that any resources the City puts toward aesthetic improvements do not move us closer to the state mandated stormwater management goals.
Lake Management.
Since the mid-1970s, the responsibility for lake management has been assigned to Dane County with regulatory oversight by the WDNR. Given frequent flooding events over the last two decades and FEMA’s determination to elevate the regional flood of Lake Mendota, the City is proceeding to take a more active role in the management of the Yahara Lakes.
On April 6, 2009, WDNR, Dane County and the City of Madison presented a “Water Level Short-Term Action Plan” to the public. The City’s responsibilities include:
• Identify alternative/feasibility of modifying the STH 113 railroad bridge to increase the conveyance of the regional flood and reduce the height of the regional flood in the Cherokee Marsh;
• Complete the Lake Mendota portion of the hydraulic system model (INFOS ) and to expand this state-of-the art model to the other lakes in following years; and,
• To install a flow gauges on Starkweather Creek, and other key tributaries, to be used to provide data for the management of lake elevations and flows.
To enable the City of Madison to protect the property and fiscal interests of its residents and more accurately model the lake levels and pollutant loadings, accurate mathematical models of the lakes need to be developed and maintained. A model for Monona Bay and Lake Monona was created in a cooperative effort with the University of Wisconsin College of Engineering, and completed at the end of 2008. A model of Lake Mendota is being created at this time. City Engineering will continue to work with the University to create future lake models. City Engineering has been authorized a full time staff position to create, update and analyze model results.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
PHOSPHORUS
Phosphorus is the primary limiting factor for algal growth in the Madison area lakes, and therefore is directly linked to eutrophication. Farming practices and erosion from construction activities are the primary sources of phosphorus.
Phosphorus is generally reported as either “soluble reactive phosphorus” or “total phosphorus”. Soluble reactive phosphorus readily aids plant growth due to its dissolved state; its concentration varies widely over short periods of time as plants take it up and release it. Total phosphorus, however, remains more stable and is often a better indicator of a lake’s nutrient status. The total phosphorus in Lakes Mendota and Monona peaks from July through October at about 60 µg/l (parts per billion).
The high phosphorus loads that occurred in the first half of the 1900’s have accumulated in the lake sediments and continue to impact lake water quality. During lake turnover in the deeper, stratified portions of the lakes or in shallow areas due to strong winds, sediment-laden water is mixed up into the water column, making more phosphorus available for algae growth. Therefore, even when external loads are dramatically reduced, lake sediment acts as a reservoir that continues to release nutrients into the water.
MMSD PHOSPHORUS LOADINGS
Currently, Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) provides primary, secondary and disinfection treatment of the waste it receives. MMSD receives raw sewage, which has a total phosphorus content of approximately 6,000 µg/l.
Currently the average flow rate through MMSD is about 43 million gallons per day (MGD), or 783,700 lbs/yr of total phosphorus. Average effluent from the plant has a total phosphorus level of 390 µg/l, or 50,926 lbs/yr of total phosphorus discharged from the plant. There is a 93.5% reduction in total phosphorus levels from waste to effluent. The captured phosphorus is land spread through Metrogrow.
URBAN PHOSPHORUS LOADINGS
Developed areas in the City of Madison contribute approximately 28,435 pounds of total phosphorus each year, which includes atmospheric deposition and runoff from streets and established lawns. Of the total amount of phosphorus, about 68% (19,300 pounds) is particulate phosphorus, which can be captured by stormwater treatment practices. It is estimated that the city currently treats 39% of the particulate phosphorus in stormwater through street sweeping, treatment devices, detention ponds, and other practices.
Attachments: In order to track the tasks referred to in this Policy, a Stormwater Management Project Schedule is attached.
Larry D. Nelson, P.E.
City Engineer
SUMMARY OF PHOSPHORUS SOURCES
City of Madison (Urban) Total Phosphorus Loadings
Average Yield Average Concentration
(lbs/acre/year) (µg/l)
Downtown Commercial 1.11 205.9
Single Family Residential 1.02 580.6
High Density Residential 1.20 328.8
Light Industrial 1.12 278.6
Values reported from Source Loading and Management Model (SLAMM)
Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) Total Phosphorus Loadings
Total Concentration
(lbs/year) (µg/l)
Influent to MMSD 783,691 6,000
Effluent from MMSD 50,925.53 390
In-Lake Total Phosphorus
Average Concentration Peak Concentration Sediment Concentration
(µg/l) (µg/l) (µg/g)
Lake Mendota Spring 107 207 1.4*
Lake Mendota Summer 167 1,520
Lake Mendota Fall 209 803
Lake Monona Spring 81 275
1.3*
Lake Monona Summer 206 786
Lake Monona Fall 197 920
Monona Bay 0.8 **
Data tabulated from 1998 through 2007 from North Temperate Lakes Long Term Ecological Research (LTER)
* From Perspectives on the eutrophication of the Yahara Lakes, Richard C. Lathrop, 2007
** Value reported from 2006 WRM Practicum: Watershed and Management Plan for Monona Bay
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Monday, May 18, 2009
The Housing, Housing, Housing Week Ahead
So many meetings, no more affordable housing, in fact, less . . . Well, guess what, I couldn't get Legistar to work this morning til about 7:45, so, here's a kinda scattered attempt since I couldn't see the agendas this morning until late. Will have to review the council agenda for tomorrow, no time to do it at work today. Most of the morning, all I got was:
4:30 PM COMMISSION ON THE ENVIRONMENT ROOM 108 CCB
- Plastic bag disposal ban
4:45 PM LANDMARKS COMMISSION ROOM LL-130 MMB
- Buildings proposed for demolition.
5:30 PM PLAN COMMISSION ROOM 201
- I didn't see anything of interest to me, but there might be a few things that people are interested in, depending upon where you live.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
4:30 PM COMMON COUNCIL ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITTEE ROOM 103A CCB
- Paid sick leave for city employees, finally
- Changes to filing the statement of interest forms, and no, its not getting more transparent.
6:30 PM COMMON COUNCIL ROOM 201 CCB
Off the top of my head . . . no time to review the agenda more thoroughly.
- 600 E Johson project where they are demolishing 11 homes.
- The fixes to the chronic nuisance ordinance, finally, after 2 years!
- Removing Carl DuRocher from the Transit and Parking Commission
- Paid Sick Leave finally implemented
- Resolution to the TIF issue.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
4:30 PM BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS ROOM 103A CCB
- Sherman Terrace Water Main issue
- Java Cat and opposition to widening Monona Drive
- Approving and adopting City Engineering’s Policy regarding stormwater management and water quality improvement strategies for Lakes Mendota, Monona and Wingra. (No attachments, no legistar item, so it might not be going to council, this may be the only chance to talk about whatever they are talking about.)
4:30 PM HOUSING MERGER PLANNING AD HOC COMMITTEE ROOM LL-130 MMB
- More talking, separate from the Diversity and Affordability committees. They will be discussing maps that are not available, a work plan that is not available and the property tax exemption issue (no materials).
4:30 PM URBAN DESIGN COMMISSION ROOM LL-110 MMB
- Again, development is slow, nothing of interest to me, but you might want to take a look in case there is something going on in your neighborhood.
5:30 PM ZONING CODE REWRITE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MADISON SENIOR CENTER, 330 W MIFFLIN ST, ROOMS 1 & 2
- Continuing to move forward. The agenda says that they have 90 minutes for about 20 people to attempt to discuss the following:
- - Discussion of revised Residential Districts (TR-P District)
- - Discussion of revised Commercial-Mixed Use Districts
- - Discussion of revised Employment Districts
- - Discussion of revised Overlay Districts (Transit-Oriented Development District)
- - Discussion of revised General Development District (parking revisions and landscaping standards)
- - Discussion of revised Supplemental Regulations
- - Discussion of Procedures chapter
- - Discussion of Co-op and co-housing regulations
- - Discussion of revised Land Use and Building Form Standards chapter
Thursday, May 21, 2009
12:00 PM HOUSING AFFORDABILITY SUBCOMMITTEE OF THE HOUSING COMMITTEE ROOM LL-130 MMB
- More discussion, separate from the Merger and Diversity Committee, they'll be talking about:
1. Update on current lending practices
2. Continue to review homeownership and renter chart
3. Continue to review the City of Madison housing programs
4. Homebuyer education
(no materials available)
4:30 PM LANDLORD AND TENANT ISSUES SUBCOMMITTEE ROOM LL-130 MMB
- More talking about housing.
4:30 PM MEETING WITH DONOVAN RYPKEMA OF PLACE ECONOMICS ROOM 260 MMB
- I'm not sure what he'll be talking about with Plan Commission, Urban Design, Landmarks and Community Development Authority members, but this is what is listed on the agenda:
- Where is the stimulus money going? (no materials available)
- What roads will be in next year's budget (no materials available)
5:30 PM DOWNTOWN COORDINATING COMMITTEE ROOM 108 CCB
- Looks like they'll be making recommendations to staff about transportation connections in the downtown (no materials available)
Friday, May 22, 2009
10:30 AM HOUSING DIVERSITY PLANNING AD HOC COMMITTEE ROOM 403 CCB
- There's an agenda, with no materials available, I asked a member to see their packet, but they don't have anything either, including the mayor's memo and informational documents to be distributed that will discussed. It's frustrating to have them have a meeting at 10:30 in the morning when no one can attend and then not have the information available. This is the committee that was formed when IZ died, this is their first meeting and they are supposed to have a report to the council by July 1st. Ha!
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The page cannot be displayedMonday, May 18, 2009
Explanation: The connection to the website was closed by the site or by one of its servers.
4:30 PM COMMISSION ON THE ENVIRONMENT ROOM 108 CCB
- Plastic bag disposal ban
4:45 PM LANDMARKS COMMISSION ROOM LL-130 MMB
- Buildings proposed for demolition.
5:30 PM PLAN COMMISSION ROOM 201
- I didn't see anything of interest to me, but there might be a few things that people are interested in, depending upon where you live.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
4:30 PM COMMON COUNCIL ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITTEE ROOM 103A CCB
- Paid sick leave for city employees, finally
- Changes to filing the statement of interest forms, and no, its not getting more transparent.
6:30 PM COMMON COUNCIL ROOM 201 CCB
Off the top of my head . . . no time to review the agenda more thoroughly.
- 600 E Johson project where they are demolishing 11 homes.
- The fixes to the chronic nuisance ordinance, finally, after 2 years!
- Removing Carl DuRocher from the Transit and Parking Commission
- Paid Sick Leave finally implemented
- Resolution to the TIF issue.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
4:30 PM BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS ROOM 103A CCB
- Sherman Terrace Water Main issue
- Java Cat and opposition to widening Monona Drive
- Approving and adopting City Engineering’s Policy regarding stormwater management and water quality improvement strategies for Lakes Mendota, Monona and Wingra. (No attachments, no legistar item, so it might not be going to council, this may be the only chance to talk about whatever they are talking about.)
4:30 PM HOUSING MERGER PLANNING AD HOC COMMITTEE ROOM LL-130 MMB
- More talking, separate from the Diversity and Affordability committees. They will be discussing maps that are not available, a work plan that is not available and the property tax exemption issue (no materials).
4:30 PM URBAN DESIGN COMMISSION ROOM LL-110 MMB
- Again, development is slow, nothing of interest to me, but you might want to take a look in case there is something going on in your neighborhood.
5:30 PM ZONING CODE REWRITE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MADISON SENIOR CENTER, 330 W MIFFLIN ST, ROOMS 1 & 2
- Continuing to move forward. The agenda says that they have 90 minutes for about 20 people to attempt to discuss the following:
- - Discussion of revised Residential Districts (TR-P District)
- - Discussion of revised Commercial-Mixed Use Districts
- - Discussion of revised Employment Districts
- - Discussion of revised Overlay Districts (Transit-Oriented Development District)
- - Discussion of revised General Development District (parking revisions and landscaping standards)
- - Discussion of revised Supplemental Regulations
- - Discussion of Procedures chapter
- - Discussion of Co-op and co-housing regulations
- - Discussion of revised Land Use and Building Form Standards chapter
Thursday, May 21, 2009
12:00 PM HOUSING AFFORDABILITY SUBCOMMITTEE OF THE HOUSING COMMITTEE ROOM LL-130 MMB
- More discussion, separate from the Merger and Diversity Committee, they'll be talking about:
1. Update on current lending practices
2. Continue to review homeownership and renter chart
3. Continue to review the City of Madison housing programs
4. Homebuyer education
(no materials available)
4:30 PM LANDLORD AND TENANT ISSUES SUBCOMMITTEE ROOM LL-130 MMB
- More talking about housing.
4:30 PM MEETING WITH DONOVAN RYPKEMA OF PLACE ECONOMICS ROOM 260 MMB
- I'm not sure what he'll be talking about with Plan Commission, Urban Design, Landmarks and Community Development Authority members, but this is what is listed on the agenda:
Discussion with Donovan Rypkema, principal of Place Economics, a Washington DC based real estate and economic development consulting firm. Mr. Rypkema is nationally recognized for his expertise in downtown and neighborhood development and revitalization and historic preservation.At 7:00 this same day he'll be at the Goodman Community Center to talk about:
Historic Preservation & Development .... Does it Work?5:00 PM MADISON AREA TRANSPORTATION PLANNING BOARD ROOM LL-110 MMB
Madison neighborhood activists, concerned citizens, and development entrepreneurs will all find something to take away from this program. Noted Washington D.C. author, speaker and consultant, Donovan Rypkema, will lead a conversation about "The dichotomy of historic preservation and economic development."
- Where is the stimulus money going? (no materials available)
- What roads will be in next year's budget (no materials available)
5:30 PM DOWNTOWN COORDINATING COMMITTEE ROOM 108 CCB
- Looks like they'll be making recommendations to staff about transportation connections in the downtown (no materials available)
Friday, May 22, 2009
10:30 AM HOUSING DIVERSITY PLANNING AD HOC COMMITTEE ROOM 403 CCB
- There's an agenda, with no materials available, I asked a member to see their packet, but they don't have anything either, including the mayor's memo and informational documents to be distributed that will discussed. It's frustrating to have them have a meeting at 10:30 in the morning when no one can attend and then not have the information available. This is the committee that was formed when IZ died, this is their first meeting and they are supposed to have a report to the council by July 1st. Ha!
Read more!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Friday Round Up
There are so many issues in my queue to blog about, and so little time, so today, I have a little bit of this and a little bit of that . . .
FOLLOW UP ON FACEBOOK PRIVACY ISSUE
Emily Mills at Dane101.com does a great job outlining the issues and a relatively good/informed follow up conversation ensues. I agree these are open questions, and I'm surprised by who feels strongly which way on this issue. Those who first got me involved in blogging and on-line activities seem to lean more towards privacy, those a little newer tend to go towards no privacy. I guess I see a little of both sides of the issue. I think in this case, since I did post it on twitter, it was ok, especially because of how I use Facebook and Twitter, but it should have only been my comments, not those of others. But my opinions on this continue to morph as the conversation continues about the new on-line world and the media.
THAT'S ONE WAY TO DO IT!
I laughed when I read Bill Lueders article about the skateboard park advocates that finally just took things into their own hands. Skateboarding was an issue over 8 years ago before I was on the council and it does seem that nothing has changed. While their methods may have been a little unconventional, they certainly made their point! Hopefully, Alder Rhodes-Conway can help make something happen. There's no reason why a city this size doesn't have a skateboard park.
ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST!
As I twittered, facebooked and e-mailed/listserved yesterday, then the email got blogged by Kristin at Laptop City Hall and a small article in the WSJ (based on a phone call, not the internet) . . . Carl DuRocher, the chair of the Transit and Parking commission is the latest victim of the Mayor's so-called non-existent "10 year rule". Tho, as Kristin points out, it is no small coincidence that Carl recently opposed the bus fare hike and is now being removed. To see others who may also be soon on their way out the door, here's the list I compiled a few weeks ago. It makes it kind of sad that the point made in the Cap Times editorial that touched off the facebook, racist, privacy debate got kinda lost. I agree with them, the City can handle vigorous debate and a diversity of opinions, too bad the Mayor can't see that as an asset instead of threat.
BANNING BOTTLED WATER BOTTLES
I think this should be considered along with the plastic bag issue. I like what they are doing at with water at Bonnaroo. I find their statistics from the press release staggering.
After attending the small business summit that the City of Madison and the Chamber of Commerce put on, a facebook "friend" (note, trying to respect this person's privacy) posted the following:
So, Terrence Wall was snubbed. After all the work he did to bring forward the idea of redoing the library, the committee goes with his competitor for the downtown library. Well, thank you Terrence, for getting the conversation going!
NORTHSIDE DISGUST
There has been a very interesting discussion happening on the northside neighborhood listserve. What shocked me was that when a person challenged Alderperson Michael Schumacher on his banning of liquor in small packages and tried to explain how that impacted low-income people . . . Alder Schumacher responded with a very personal attack on the critic. The person had been in trouble with the law in an incident that involved alcohol and Alder Schumacher used that incident to discredit the person standing up for the views in his neighborhood. It was one of the lower moments I've witnessed by bad listserve behavior by elected officials. However, the good news is, that after the personal attack, the discussion turned to some issues around alcohol and what is really needed to address the issues. I think the person, who did not back down when attacked by Alder Schumacher, was rather brave and I have new respect for this person and think it was great that he wasn't intimidated into silence.
DEWAR UPDATE
Thomas Dewar has defriended me. I'd like to say it has something to do with internet privacy, but I suspect not. I suspect it has more to do with yesterday's comments in my blog. If you'd like tho, you can join his fan club. (Zach Brandon should be the number one fan.) I told you, trouble follows him, or he causes it, one of the two.
Read more!
FOLLOW UP ON FACEBOOK PRIVACY ISSUE
Emily Mills at Dane101.com does a great job outlining the issues and a relatively good/informed follow up conversation ensues. I agree these are open questions, and I'm surprised by who feels strongly which way on this issue. Those who first got me involved in blogging and on-line activities seem to lean more towards privacy, those a little newer tend to go towards no privacy. I guess I see a little of both sides of the issue. I think in this case, since I did post it on twitter, it was ok, especially because of how I use Facebook and Twitter, but it should have only been my comments, not those of others. But my opinions on this continue to morph as the conversation continues about the new on-line world and the media.
THAT'S ONE WAY TO DO IT!
I laughed when I read Bill Lueders article about the skateboard park advocates that finally just took things into their own hands. Skateboarding was an issue over 8 years ago before I was on the council and it does seem that nothing has changed. While their methods may have been a little unconventional, they certainly made their point! Hopefully, Alder Rhodes-Conway can help make something happen. There's no reason why a city this size doesn't have a skateboard park.
ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST!
As I twittered, facebooked and e-mailed/listserved yesterday, then the email got blogged by Kristin at Laptop City Hall and a small article in the WSJ (based on a phone call, not the internet) . . . Carl DuRocher, the chair of the Transit and Parking commission is the latest victim of the Mayor's so-called non-existent "10 year rule". Tho, as Kristin points out, it is no small coincidence that Carl recently opposed the bus fare hike and is now being removed. To see others who may also be soon on their way out the door, here's the list I compiled a few weeks ago. It makes it kind of sad that the point made in the Cap Times editorial that touched off the facebook, racist, privacy debate got kinda lost. I agree with them, the City can handle vigorous debate and a diversity of opinions, too bad the Mayor can't see that as an asset instead of threat.
BANNING BOTTLED WATER BOTTLES
I think this should be considered along with the plastic bag issue. I like what they are doing at with water at Bonnaroo. I find their statistics from the press release staggering.
BUY LOCAL - KINDABottled Water
- Ends up as garbage 90% of the time.(1)
- Uses 2,000 times more energy than water.(2)
- Is 1,000 times more expensive than tap water.(3)
- Takes 1,000 years to biodegrade.(4)
- Requires enough fuel to power more than 3,000,000 vehicles a year.(5)
After attending the small business summit that the City of Madison and the Chamber of Commerce put on, a facebook "friend" (note, trying to respect this person's privacy) posted the following:
XXX is contemplating the irony of seeing a local Madison business tout technology developed in Asia by a company headquartered in Massachusetts to promote their "buy local" campaign.I thought it was amusing. So I had to ask, and again, edited to protect privacy, here's what was said:
XXX presented at the Madison small-business conference on Tuesday, and gave a great commercial for Constant Contact, the e-mail marketing company from far away. My teeth were grinding. The good news is that XXX does use a local company [edited] for her Web site.OH, OUCH
So, Terrence Wall was snubbed. After all the work he did to bring forward the idea of redoing the library, the committee goes with his competitor for the downtown library. Well, thank you Terrence, for getting the conversation going!
NORTHSIDE DISGUST
There has been a very interesting discussion happening on the northside neighborhood listserve. What shocked me was that when a person challenged Alderperson Michael Schumacher on his banning of liquor in small packages and tried to explain how that impacted low-income people . . . Alder Schumacher responded with a very personal attack on the critic. The person had been in trouble with the law in an incident that involved alcohol and Alder Schumacher used that incident to discredit the person standing up for the views in his neighborhood. It was one of the lower moments I've witnessed by bad listserve behavior by elected officials. However, the good news is, that after the personal attack, the discussion turned to some issues around alcohol and what is really needed to address the issues. I think the person, who did not back down when attacked by Alder Schumacher, was rather brave and I have new respect for this person and think it was great that he wasn't intimidated into silence.
DEWAR UPDATE
Thomas Dewar has defriended me. I'd like to say it has something to do with internet privacy, but I suspect not. I suspect it has more to do with yesterday's comments in my blog. If you'd like tho, you can join his fan club. (Zach Brandon should be the number one fan.) I told you, trouble follows him, or he causes it, one of the two.
Read more!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
The Facebook Dilemma
A blog post, an editorial, a facebook status, another blog, another facebook status update, and now another blog post . . . and more new territory to cover in the electronic age. And to make it interesting, it involves Alder Thuy Pham-Remmele.
There's two issues going on here, one was a quote that morphed its way to being out of context. The second is the screen shot of a facebook page posted to a blog and the question of if that was appropriate.
The easy one first. The quote was taken from my blog post about if Thuy should be allowed to reconsider her appointment (or non-appointment) after stomping out of the meeting in a huff (if you choose not to be at a meeting, why should you get to vote on or speak to an item you missed?). A quote from that blog post was used in an editorial that I think was trying to call me a hypocrite - which was a little unfair because the quote was taken out of context and unfairly characterized. For the record, I dismissed Thuy not because she's bothersome to listen to (in fact, I believe she has as much right to speak as anyone else if she goes to the meetings), I dismissed her because she left the council meeting because she was mad, missed a discussion and then was asking to reconsider something she missed. I explained that in my blog post that they failed to acknowledge and instead to the casual reader made it sound like I gave them that quote in an interview or said it in a public meeting. This, of course, led another blogger to take another leap saying that my quote was used to explain why Thuy wasn't getting the appointments she wanted, which wasn't even close to what I said. Of course, he didn't read what I said until after he posted his blog, because the Cap Times didn't cite where the quote came from.
I'd call all that sloppy journalism, but, as the Wisconsin State Journal has proved time and time again, facts don't really matter in editorials. And although blogging might be the new media, it does have more liberal standards than journalism. So, the quote was misused. Annoying, but not such a big deal. This kind of thing happens more often than I'd like, which is part of why I have this blog - to set the record straight. As I'm doing now.
The second issue is a little more disturbing, perhaps because it is a new issue. Was it fair, tacky, inappropriate etc to post a screen shot of my facebook status update to a blog? One argument is that I'm a public figure and I have so many friends that it isn't really a private post. Probably even more so because I posted the update from Twitter. I have do have two issues with that, first, I'm no longer an elected official, just a blogger, so am I really still a public figure? And second, if I am a public figure, is that a lifetime status, or is there a way for me to escape the intrusion into my life at some point? However, I see the point, I think it was probably fair, but it changes how I will use Facebook in the future.
The other argument is that on Facebook, you choose who your friends are and who can see your status. Your friends can also post and other friends can see what they have written. It's semi-public depending upon your settings and as with any electronic medium, you never want to say something you're not willing to back up, because you never know where it will end up. However, I think posting the screen print of my facebook status is likely to have a very chilling effect on those of my friends who are more media savvy and politically aware. For other facebook friends, who might comment on my status who might not even be from Madison or aware of the media circus that tends to surround me, I think it is unfair that their comments could get posted to a blog because I'm a public figure. To them I might just be a niece or aunt or childhood friend or college drinking buddy. For those, I worry. Do I need to now put a warning with my status updates that comments made on Facebook may end up in the media? I always thought that there was an unwritten code that people would use their discretion and ask me directly for a comment if they saw something on my facebook update of note. But I guess not.
Now, don't get me wrong, I freely admit, I use twitter and facebook to accomplish political goals. Twitter almost always only has public comments, facebook might have comments about the split pea soup I made or the gardening I just did or whatever show I'm going to see. And so posting part of my facebook status update is probably ok because I do use it as a political tool - but as one friend told me - it kind of took all the fun out of facebook and they are glad they didn't make the comment they were tempted to.
So, do I unfriend all the media and bloggers that are on facebook and use it as a what-I-ate-for-dinner update for my closest friends? Or did it just become another political tool that is assumed to be open to the public. When I was an elected official, I did treat it that way, and began accepting any friends that requested to be my friend - now that I'm not an elected official does that change? These are interesting questions, with no real clear answers from talking to my friends, but whatever the case, the blog post yesterday at Dane101 changed things, again. I'm not sure if it was for better or worse, but it has definitely changed.
Finally, two last random comments.
Thomas Dewar - the Mayor's buddy. I should have known not to take the bait. It was probably a set up. Either trouble follows that guy like the plague, or he creates it. That's why I left his friend request sitting there for a couple weeks before I finally caved in. And voila, the very first comment he makes ends up a mini-controversy.
Second, is all of this exhausting? Perhaps. But only for those who are on-line types. Most of the City has no clue we're even having this discussion. And probably didn't read the Cap Times on line, or my blog, or Dane101 or my facebook status. If you're not interested, don't read it, and you can be less exhausted. I happen to think the situation raises interesting questions for geeks like me which is why I took the time to write this post. It's something to think about.
Read more!
There's two issues going on here, one was a quote that morphed its way to being out of context. The second is the screen shot of a facebook page posted to a blog and the question of if that was appropriate.
The easy one first. The quote was taken from my blog post about if Thuy should be allowed to reconsider her appointment (or non-appointment) after stomping out of the meeting in a huff (if you choose not to be at a meeting, why should you get to vote on or speak to an item you missed?). A quote from that blog post was used in an editorial that I think was trying to call me a hypocrite - which was a little unfair because the quote was taken out of context and unfairly characterized. For the record, I dismissed Thuy not because she's bothersome to listen to (in fact, I believe she has as much right to speak as anyone else if she goes to the meetings), I dismissed her because she left the council meeting because she was mad, missed a discussion and then was asking to reconsider something she missed. I explained that in my blog post that they failed to acknowledge and instead to the casual reader made it sound like I gave them that quote in an interview or said it in a public meeting. This, of course, led another blogger to take another leap saying that my quote was used to explain why Thuy wasn't getting the appointments she wanted, which wasn't even close to what I said. Of course, he didn't read what I said until after he posted his blog, because the Cap Times didn't cite where the quote came from.
I'd call all that sloppy journalism, but, as the Wisconsin State Journal has proved time and time again, facts don't really matter in editorials. And although blogging might be the new media, it does have more liberal standards than journalism. So, the quote was misused. Annoying, but not such a big deal. This kind of thing happens more often than I'd like, which is part of why I have this blog - to set the record straight. As I'm doing now.
The second issue is a little more disturbing, perhaps because it is a new issue. Was it fair, tacky, inappropriate etc to post a screen shot of my facebook status update to a blog? One argument is that I'm a public figure and I have so many friends that it isn't really a private post. Probably even more so because I posted the update from Twitter. I have do have two issues with that, first, I'm no longer an elected official, just a blogger, so am I really still a public figure? And second, if I am a public figure, is that a lifetime status, or is there a way for me to escape the intrusion into my life at some point? However, I see the point, I think it was probably fair, but it changes how I will use Facebook in the future.
The other argument is that on Facebook, you choose who your friends are and who can see your status. Your friends can also post and other friends can see what they have written. It's semi-public depending upon your settings and as with any electronic medium, you never want to say something you're not willing to back up, because you never know where it will end up. However, I think posting the screen print of my facebook status is likely to have a very chilling effect on those of my friends who are more media savvy and politically aware. For other facebook friends, who might comment on my status who might not even be from Madison or aware of the media circus that tends to surround me, I think it is unfair that their comments could get posted to a blog because I'm a public figure. To them I might just be a niece or aunt or childhood friend or college drinking buddy. For those, I worry. Do I need to now put a warning with my status updates that comments made on Facebook may end up in the media? I always thought that there was an unwritten code that people would use their discretion and ask me directly for a comment if they saw something on my facebook update of note. But I guess not.
Now, don't get me wrong, I freely admit, I use twitter and facebook to accomplish political goals. Twitter almost always only has public comments, facebook might have comments about the split pea soup I made or the gardening I just did or whatever show I'm going to see. And so posting part of my facebook status update is probably ok because I do use it as a political tool - but as one friend told me - it kind of took all the fun out of facebook and they are glad they didn't make the comment they were tempted to.
So, do I unfriend all the media and bloggers that are on facebook and use it as a what-I-ate-for-dinner update for my closest friends? Or did it just become another political tool that is assumed to be open to the public. When I was an elected official, I did treat it that way, and began accepting any friends that requested to be my friend - now that I'm not an elected official does that change? These are interesting questions, with no real clear answers from talking to my friends, but whatever the case, the blog post yesterday at Dane101 changed things, again. I'm not sure if it was for better or worse, but it has definitely changed.
Finally, two last random comments.
Thomas Dewar - the Mayor's buddy. I should have known not to take the bait. It was probably a set up. Either trouble follows that guy like the plague, or he creates it. That's why I left his friend request sitting there for a couple weeks before I finally caved in. And voila, the very first comment he makes ends up a mini-controversy.
Second, is all of this exhausting? Perhaps. But only for those who are on-line types. Most of the City has no clue we're even having this discussion. And probably didn't read the Cap Times on line, or my blog, or Dane101 or my facebook status. If you're not interested, don't read it, and you can be less exhausted. I happen to think the situation raises interesting questions for geeks like me which is why I took the time to write this post. It's something to think about.
Read more!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
SJC turns 9, Honors Community Leaders
The Social Justice Center will be celebrating its 9th birthday tonight from 5 - 7 at Olbrich Gardens. Lee Rayburn will be emceeing the event as we honor Stuart & Jackie Macaulay and Leslie McAllister for their contributions to the community. Please join us.
LEGACY AWARD
The Social Justice Center Legacy Award will be presented to Stewart and Jackie Macaulay. Stewart and Jackie (until her death in 2000) were stalwart activists on social justice issues over the last 50 years and steadfast supporters of the organizations and people who have fought for progress on many fronts. Jackie and her daughter Monica participated in a “shop in” at Sears to protest the store’s refusal to hire blacks as clerks. Stewart, Jackie and their children participated in peace marches against the Vietnam War—and worked to keep the protests non-violent. Jackie worked on affirmative action cases starting in the 1970’s and she played a role in the creation of the Women’s Studies Department at UW-Madison. Stewart and Jackie were
frequent hosts of fundraisers for progressive causes and candidates. Stewart was one of the founders of Law & Society Association which focuses on the role of law in
social, political, economic and cultural life and looks at issues of social justice both nationally and globally. After Jackie’s death Stewart supported the creation of the Social Justice Center’s Jackie Macaulay Art Gallery to both recognize Jackie and provide a venue for art with a social justice focus. Whatever the issue, civil rights, affirmative action, support for those marginalized by society, Stewart and Jackie were there, ready to march, support, represent and raise money.
VISIONARY AWARD
Leslie McAllister will be receiving the Social Justice Center Visionary Award for her advocacy for low-income and homeless families. Most recently, Leslie worked as the Coordinator of the Weed and Seed Program in several challenged neighborhoods. Leslie helped people living in those areas organize to advocate for better coordination of services, identify gaps in services and integrate new services into the neighborhood. Earlier she worked for the Interfaith Hospitality Network as a shelter case manager and participated in local coalitions of organizations providing services to the homeless. Leslie has been active in the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Wisconsin Chapter where she has been involved in legislative advocacy at the state level.
PLEASE THANK OUR SPONSORS
JimAdney
Julie Andersen & Steve Greb
Anne Arnesen
Marian Ashman
Frances Bicknell
Mark Borns
Salvador & Susan Carranza
David Carrig
Carol & Peter Carstensen
Roger Chapman
Nan & David Cheney
Carin Clauss
Connie & Bill Clune
TomConrad
Dennis Coyier
Frances Didnell
Nancy & Bob Dott
Katherine Davey & Alan Ramsey
Buzz and Kay Davis
Anuj Desai
Marc Eisen & Connie Kinsella
Joann & Joe Elder
Frank & Dolores Emspak
Rick & Bonnie Fairchild
Drs. Linda & Gene Farley
Cindy Fesemyer & Rob Ferrett
Helen & Cecil Findley
Marc Galanter
Ed & Betty Garvey
Eunice & John Gibson
Mark Giese
Henry & Virginia Hart
Hatheway Hasler
Kathryn Hendley
Helen Hift
Patricia Hitchcock
Nancy Adams Johnson
Don Katz & Rebecca Krantz
Linda Ketcham
Robert Kimbrough
& Phyllis Rose
Paul & Atsuko Kusuda
Stewart Macaulay
Barbara & Don MacCrimmon
Marygold & Joseph Melli
Ellen Moore
Marvin Rabin
Mike & PamRewey
Anne Reynolds & TomLiebl
Juscha Robinson
Matthew Rothschild
Don & Joanne Schalch
Ed & Lynn Schten
Marc Siberman
Arlene Silveira
Chuck & Connie Smalley
Joe & Pauline Thome
Marian & A. Rowland Todd
Deborah & Patrick Turski
Dick & Margy Walker
Sally & Ben Washburn
Katie Wenban
Bill & Lynn Whitford
Marcia & Erik Wright
Dave Zweifel
Read more!
LEGACY AWARD
The Social Justice Center Legacy Award will be presented to Stewart and Jackie Macaulay. Stewart and Jackie (until her death in 2000) were stalwart activists on social justice issues over the last 50 years and steadfast supporters of the organizations and people who have fought for progress on many fronts. Jackie and her daughter Monica participated in a “shop in” at Sears to protest the store’s refusal to hire blacks as clerks. Stewart, Jackie and their children participated in peace marches against the Vietnam War—and worked to keep the protests non-violent. Jackie worked on affirmative action cases starting in the 1970’s and she played a role in the creation of the Women’s Studies Department at UW-Madison. Stewart and Jackie were
frequent hosts of fundraisers for progressive causes and candidates. Stewart was one of the founders of Law & Society Association which focuses on the role of law in
social, political, economic and cultural life and looks at issues of social justice both nationally and globally. After Jackie’s death Stewart supported the creation of the Social Justice Center’s Jackie Macaulay Art Gallery to both recognize Jackie and provide a venue for art with a social justice focus. Whatever the issue, civil rights, affirmative action, support for those marginalized by society, Stewart and Jackie were there, ready to march, support, represent and raise money.
VISIONARY AWARD
Leslie McAllister will be receiving the Social Justice Center Visionary Award for her advocacy for low-income and homeless families. Most recently, Leslie worked as the Coordinator of the Weed and Seed Program in several challenged neighborhoods. Leslie helped people living in those areas organize to advocate for better coordination of services, identify gaps in services and integrate new services into the neighborhood. Earlier she worked for the Interfaith Hospitality Network as a shelter case manager and participated in local coalitions of organizations providing services to the homeless. Leslie has been active in the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Wisconsin Chapter where she has been involved in legislative advocacy at the state level.
PLEASE THANK OUR SPONSORS
JimAdney
Julie Andersen & Steve Greb
Anne Arnesen
Marian Ashman
Frances Bicknell
Mark Borns
Salvador & Susan Carranza
David Carrig
Carol & Peter Carstensen
Roger Chapman
Nan & David Cheney
Carin Clauss
Connie & Bill Clune
TomConrad
Dennis Coyier
Frances Didnell
Nancy & Bob Dott
Katherine Davey & Alan Ramsey
Buzz and Kay Davis
Anuj Desai
Marc Eisen & Connie Kinsella
Joann & Joe Elder
Frank & Dolores Emspak
Rick & Bonnie Fairchild
Drs. Linda & Gene Farley
Cindy Fesemyer & Rob Ferrett
Helen & Cecil Findley
Marc Galanter
Ed & Betty Garvey
Eunice & John Gibson
Mark Giese
Henry & Virginia Hart
Hatheway Hasler
Kathryn Hendley
Helen Hift
Patricia Hitchcock
Nancy Adams Johnson
Don Katz & Rebecca Krantz
Linda Ketcham
Robert Kimbrough
& Phyllis Rose
Paul & Atsuko Kusuda
Stewart Macaulay
Barbara & Don MacCrimmon
Marygold & Joseph Melli
Ellen Moore
Marvin Rabin
Mike & PamRewey
Anne Reynolds & TomLiebl
Juscha Robinson
Matthew Rothschild
Don & Joanne Schalch
Ed & Lynn Schten
Marc Siberman
Arlene Silveira
Chuck & Connie Smalley
Joe & Pauline Thome
Marian & A. Rowland Todd
Deborah & Patrick Turski
Dick & Margy Walker
Sally & Ben Washburn
Katie Wenban
Bill & Lynn Whitford
Marcia & Erik Wright
Dave Zweifel
Read more!
Walkers and Bikers: Input Needed
Do you walk or bike in this city and have ideas for improvements? Your input is needed!
Read more!
PEDESTRIAN-BICYCLE PROJECTS SOUGHT
The Madison Pedestrian/Bicycle/Motor Vehicle Commission will hold a public hearing to receive comments on potential pedestrian and bicycle projects the City should consider undertaking in the 2010-2012 Capital Budget to increase opportunities for walking and bicycling in Madison. The intent of the public hearing is to hear suggestions for new capital (construction) projects. Please note that concerns about routine maintenance and operational issues can be directed to the appropriate agency or the City's Report-a-Problem webpage http://www.cityofmadison.com/reportaproblem .
The hearing will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26, 2009, in Room 260 of the Madison Municipal Building, 215 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. NOTE: If you need an interpreter, materials in alternate formats or other accommodations to access this meeting, please contact the Traffic Engineering Division at 608-266-4761 or TTY (Textnet) at 866-704-2315. Please do so no later than 9:00 a.m. on the Thursday preceding the meeting so that proper arrangements can be made.
Written comments will also be accepted through June 5, 2009, and should be addressed to the Pedestrian/Bicycle/Motor Vehicle Commission, c/o City Traffic Engineering Division, PO Box 2986, Madison WI 53701-2986, or email to traffic@cityofmadison.com.
The results of the public hearing and written comments will be used to develop a list of projects to be considered for inclusion in the 2010-2012 construction work program.
Read more!
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Board of Estimates - Council preview of a few issues
Often, what happens at Board of Estimates is considered to be a preview of what will happen at the Common Council . . . if the Mayor's appointments represent a cross section of the council (plastic bag ban, TIF agreement on Capital West, stimulus money, personnel issues and paid sick leave for city staff).
START
The meeting started with only 4 members there (Bruer, Sanborn, Clear and Clausius). The agenda can be found here.
Stimulus money item was skipped for later.
PERSONNEL ITEMS
They quickly dispensed of items 2 - 19 which were all personnel items. Some of the items I pointed out were
- Mini reorganization in Community Development Block Grant office - here and here.
- Police are getting a new LTE position
- Human Resources folks seem to be getting raises - here, here, here and here.
- Finally, after 3 years, sick leave for hourly employees!! We put it in the budget 3 years in a row and they finally are going to have the ability to spend the money!
Thanks to Clear for asking what's going on with all the personnel changes. The answer, of course, is "nothing to see here". Except, the impact of all these incremental changes come at budget time, when the council has no ability to do anything. Clear asked the right questions, but I think the answer was tantamount to "none of your business". This is a tough area, as personnel drives so much of the budget, there is no alder on the Personnel committee and the Board of Estimates is mostly told to stay out of it. So, who's looking at the bigger picture and strategy when it comes to personnel costs throughout the city? I think that this is the biggest investment we make, and most of the time the city gets it right, but there are certain things happening that don't seem quite fair.
Also in these items was the paid sick leave. They explained that is it was already being implemented for the unions and the ordinance makes it applicable to non-represented employees. The Mayor bristled at the fact that the Council put the money in the budget instead of it being bargained and the comptroller said it was now going to cost $75,000 - 150,000, which is WAY OFF of the projections they previously made ($60,000). The mayor says that the paid sick leave has already been implemented this year. It's about time after us budgeting it in 2007 (not implemented), 2008 (not implemented) and again in 2009.
All the items passed unanimously on a voice vote.
POLICE OVERTIME
Assistant Chief Davenport said that the fact that it went down was a result of the new police officers. He said that briefing overtime was up, but the demand-driven overtime was better - however, Terri Genin pointed out that there wasn't the extraordinary event overtime as there as been in the past, which seems to be the biggest chunk of savings.
The Mayor seems a little sassy, giving Bidar-Sielaff grief for sitting in Alder Verveers seat "self appointing" herself to the Board of Estimates.
Report passes unanimously on a voice vote.
PLASTIC BAG ORDINANCE
George Dreckman explains this is the only ordinance of the kind in the country. He says that other cities either ban the use (usually restricted to larger stores or those with a certain number of chains), charge a fee or tax the bags (Irish model, but we can't do it), require retailers to take take the bags back (not clear if they actually get recycled) or require biodegradable bags (cost is the biggest issue there). The Mayor asked about if we could ban the use of them, and I don't think he got the answer he thought he would, George says that we do have the legal authority to do it according to at least on assistant city attorney (who no longer works for the city). There also is the issue of how the bags would be picked up - including perhaps another separate container to put the bags in - which is dicey so for now, it sounds like they would have drop off sites. The ordinance they are passing is just the ban and they will figure out how to implement it, and pay for it, later. In the future, we could pay for for recycling in our normal recycling containers when our contract comes up with the people who do the recycling for us - but that will have to wait 2.5 years until the contract is renewed. Alder Compton says she'd like to have curb side pick up a few times a year. George makes clear you can still use plastic bags to pick up after your dog or line your trash can. They want to encourage reuse of the bags. The Mayor makes it clear that the violation for throwing away a bag is the same as throwing away a pop can - which you can be fined for. But, they basically said that no one will really ever get fined. They continued to talk about the issue for nearly an hour. Sanborn spoke most vehemently against the ordinance, and I think the only one to vote against it.
REDOING MDC LOAN FOR THE AVENUE
One quick question - passes unanimously.
STIMULUS MONEY
Bill Clingan explains that we are getting $534,096 in CDBG funds. He says the funds which are usually for suitable living environments, affordable housing and economic opportunities are required to be spent on infrastructure which means rehabilitation, retro-fitting, energy efficiency and conservation activities. He explains that there is a tight time line and that they need to get the information to HUD by June 5th. He says Council would approve general spending categories for not and specific awards of the money would come back to the council later. Bill says 15% can be spent on service and he says that he is looking at foreclosure prevention services (hire an lte to answer questions) and he also said that he might want to have a job development job search with people who are pending homelessness. The rest would perhaps be spent on economic development around energy issues or home rehab.
Bill also talked about the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. He says there is a round 2 of the funding available ($2B nationally) and they have to apply for at least $5M. He says that there will be a need analysis.
The only other update was from Metro on cost of hybrid buses and they are more expensive than anticipated, so there will only be 15 buses instead of 18.
CAPITAL REVOLVING LOAN FUND
There were some questions about the Capital Revolving Loan fund for the Wingra project. Jed Sanborn votes against and speaks against us using the money in these ways.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INTERN
Alder Rhodes-Conway asks why we aren't getting an intern for free. He says that its true that it probably won't cost $9,000. Mayor asks him to explain what the intern will work on. Cooley says working on some projects and research they haven't had time for, looking into commercial real estate database software, and some software for entrepreneurs. He also explains that the $9,000 that should have gone for software isn't enough and not a high priority right now.
I believe it passed unanimously on a voice vote.
PLANNING FOR UNIVERISTY AVENUE
There was some questions and it was approved.
CAPITAL WEST TIF AGREEMENT
Cliff Fisher speaks about how he believes that the City shouldn't have given TIF money to Alexanders because they undercut his condos at Metropolitan Place. He says that the assessment of his project was impacted by $8M as a result of Alexander underselling him. Cliff talks about how he's been on Sly and Mitch Henck and other shows. Cliff publicly asks Alexander to come on Mitch's show to debate - Cliff gets directed to talk to the Board of Estimates problem - Cliff says that the Alexanders won't come on the show and debate them.
Clear asks Cliff about what would happen if Alexanders are required sell the units by the current deadline, won't the units get sold at rock bottom prices and won't that negatively impact him. Cliff doesn't understand the question whatsoever.
Schumacher asks the Alexander folks a few questions and the Mayor says that Cliff's comments seemed irrelevant given they were about the original granting of the TIF, not the current deal.
Sanborn points out the hypocrisy of the compromise, given the principles that people were so adamant about the last time they talked about this.
Clear says that the agreement should be followed and that it shouldn't be renegotiated at this time and that the City should stick to its agreement.
Clausius seems like extending this agreement won't do much, he also says its unfair to other developers.
Verveer and Bruer defend the new agreement. There are more questions of staff. Staff say that this agreement is sound and that they did review the financial info and it did not seem unusual. In fact, they seem to be saying that the new agreement to extend the time is a sound decision given the legal issues and the cost to the city and the market in pursuing a breach of the agreement.
They spent nearly an hour discussing this issue. Which is amazing in that this was a compromise between Bruer and Verveer. It passes, it was a 3-3 tie, with the mayor breaking the tie.
WALGREENS
No discussion - they approve Walgreens getting their money and then go into closed session to talk about several tax cases. I wonder what they learned?
p.s. It looks like alders Schumacher, Rummel, Bidar-Sielaff and Compton attended portions of the meeting and were staying for the closed session, but it was hard to tell from tv.
Read more!
START
The meeting started with only 4 members there (Bruer, Sanborn, Clear and Clausius). The agenda can be found here.
Stimulus money item was skipped for later.
PERSONNEL ITEMS
They quickly dispensed of items 2 - 19 which were all personnel items. Some of the items I pointed out were
- Mini reorganization in Community Development Block Grant office - here and here.
- Police are getting a new LTE position
- Human Resources folks seem to be getting raises - here, here, here and here.
- Finally, after 3 years, sick leave for hourly employees!! We put it in the budget 3 years in a row and they finally are going to have the ability to spend the money!
Thanks to Clear for asking what's going on with all the personnel changes. The answer, of course, is "nothing to see here". Except, the impact of all these incremental changes come at budget time, when the council has no ability to do anything. Clear asked the right questions, but I think the answer was tantamount to "none of your business". This is a tough area, as personnel drives so much of the budget, there is no alder on the Personnel committee and the Board of Estimates is mostly told to stay out of it. So, who's looking at the bigger picture and strategy when it comes to personnel costs throughout the city? I think that this is the biggest investment we make, and most of the time the city gets it right, but there are certain things happening that don't seem quite fair.
Also in these items was the paid sick leave. They explained that is it was already being implemented for the unions and the ordinance makes it applicable to non-represented employees. The Mayor bristled at the fact that the Council put the money in the budget instead of it being bargained and the comptroller said it was now going to cost $75,000 - 150,000, which is WAY OFF of the projections they previously made ($60,000). The mayor says that the paid sick leave has already been implemented this year. It's about time after us budgeting it in 2007 (not implemented), 2008 (not implemented) and again in 2009.
All the items passed unanimously on a voice vote.
POLICE OVERTIME
Assistant Chief Davenport said that the fact that it went down was a result of the new police officers. He said that briefing overtime was up, but the demand-driven overtime was better - however, Terri Genin pointed out that there wasn't the extraordinary event overtime as there as been in the past, which seems to be the biggest chunk of savings.
The Mayor seems a little sassy, giving Bidar-Sielaff grief for sitting in Alder Verveers seat "self appointing" herself to the Board of Estimates.
Report passes unanimously on a voice vote.
PLASTIC BAG ORDINANCE
George Dreckman explains this is the only ordinance of the kind in the country. He says that other cities either ban the use (usually restricted to larger stores or those with a certain number of chains), charge a fee or tax the bags (Irish model, but we can't do it), require retailers to take take the bags back (not clear if they actually get recycled) or require biodegradable bags (cost is the biggest issue there). The Mayor asked about if we could ban the use of them, and I don't think he got the answer he thought he would, George says that we do have the legal authority to do it according to at least on assistant city attorney (who no longer works for the city). There also is the issue of how the bags would be picked up - including perhaps another separate container to put the bags in - which is dicey so for now, it sounds like they would have drop off sites. The ordinance they are passing is just the ban and they will figure out how to implement it, and pay for it, later. In the future, we could pay for for recycling in our normal recycling containers when our contract comes up with the people who do the recycling for us - but that will have to wait 2.5 years until the contract is renewed. Alder Compton says she'd like to have curb side pick up a few times a year. George makes clear you can still use plastic bags to pick up after your dog or line your trash can. They want to encourage reuse of the bags. The Mayor makes it clear that the violation for throwing away a bag is the same as throwing away a pop can - which you can be fined for. But, they basically said that no one will really ever get fined. They continued to talk about the issue for nearly an hour. Sanborn spoke most vehemently against the ordinance, and I think the only one to vote against it.
REDOING MDC LOAN FOR THE AVENUE
One quick question - passes unanimously.
STIMULUS MONEY
Bill Clingan explains that we are getting $534,096 in CDBG funds. He says the funds which are usually for suitable living environments, affordable housing and economic opportunities are required to be spent on infrastructure which means rehabilitation, retro-fitting, energy efficiency and conservation activities. He explains that there is a tight time line and that they need to get the information to HUD by June 5th. He says Council would approve general spending categories for not and specific awards of the money would come back to the council later. Bill says 15% can be spent on service and he says that he is looking at foreclosure prevention services (hire an lte to answer questions) and he also said that he might want to have a job development job search with people who are pending homelessness. The rest would perhaps be spent on economic development around energy issues or home rehab.
Bill also talked about the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. He says there is a round 2 of the funding available ($2B nationally) and they have to apply for at least $5M. He says that there will be a need analysis.
The only other update was from Metro on cost of hybrid buses and they are more expensive than anticipated, so there will only be 15 buses instead of 18.
CAPITAL REVOLVING LOAN FUND
There were some questions about the Capital Revolving Loan fund for the Wingra project. Jed Sanborn votes against and speaks against us using the money in these ways.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INTERN
Alder Rhodes-Conway asks why we aren't getting an intern for free. He says that its true that it probably won't cost $9,000. Mayor asks him to explain what the intern will work on. Cooley says working on some projects and research they haven't had time for, looking into commercial real estate database software, and some software for entrepreneurs. He also explains that the $9,000 that should have gone for software isn't enough and not a high priority right now.
I believe it passed unanimously on a voice vote.
PLANNING FOR UNIVERISTY AVENUE
There was some questions and it was approved.
CAPITAL WEST TIF AGREEMENT
Cliff Fisher speaks about how he believes that the City shouldn't have given TIF money to Alexanders because they undercut his condos at Metropolitan Place. He says that the assessment of his project was impacted by $8M as a result of Alexander underselling him. Cliff talks about how he's been on Sly and Mitch Henck and other shows. Cliff publicly asks Alexander to come on Mitch's show to debate - Cliff gets directed to talk to the Board of Estimates problem - Cliff says that the Alexanders won't come on the show and debate them.
Clear asks Cliff about what would happen if Alexanders are required sell the units by the current deadline, won't the units get sold at rock bottom prices and won't that negatively impact him. Cliff doesn't understand the question whatsoever.
Schumacher asks the Alexander folks a few questions and the Mayor says that Cliff's comments seemed irrelevant given they were about the original granting of the TIF, not the current deal.
Sanborn points out the hypocrisy of the compromise, given the principles that people were so adamant about the last time they talked about this.
Clear says that the agreement should be followed and that it shouldn't be renegotiated at this time and that the City should stick to its agreement.
Clausius seems like extending this agreement won't do much, he also says its unfair to other developers.
Verveer and Bruer defend the new agreement. There are more questions of staff. Staff say that this agreement is sound and that they did review the financial info and it did not seem unusual. In fact, they seem to be saying that the new agreement to extend the time is a sound decision given the legal issues and the cost to the city and the market in pursuing a breach of the agreement.
They spent nearly an hour discussing this issue. Which is amazing in that this was a compromise between Bruer and Verveer. It passes, it was a 3-3 tie, with the mayor breaking the tie.
WALGREENS
No discussion - they approve Walgreens getting their money and then go into closed session to talk about several tax cases. I wonder what they learned?
p.s. It looks like alders Schumacher, Rummel, Bidar-Sielaff and Compton attended portions of the meeting and were staying for the closed session, but it was hard to tell from tv.
Read more!
Forum on Non-profit Property Tax Exemption Issue on Friday
Forum on non-profit property tax exemption issue . . .
Read more!
You are invited!
May 15: Threats to Nonprofit Property Tax Exemption: It's Not Only About Affordable Housing
If you are a nonprofit and own real estate that you lease to others, you can be impacted. Likewise, if your organization is a tenant of a nonprofit property owner, you can be impacted. Learn why and how you can make a difference.
12:00 noon to 1:30 pm, BYOBB (Bring Your Own Brown Bag)
Goodman Community Center, Evjue Room
149 Waubesa Street, Madison WI 53704
Convener: Forward Community Investments
Space generously donated by Goodman Community Center
Come learn about how current statewide rulings have the potential for impacting the property tax exemption status for nonprofit property owners. You will also have a chance to learn how to make your voice heard and communicate your opinions about this very important issue.
Panelists include:
* Melissa Auchard Scholz, Scholz Nonprofit Law will discuss the history of the issue, as well as how nonprofits can legally approach their elected officials.
* Howard Mandeville and Keith Yelinek, Movin' Out will share how this issue can impact tenants
* Rebecca Krantz, Many Stones Consulting, LLC, will facilitate how nonprofits can act together to make sure their voices are heard.
For more information about this event or to RSVP, please contact Mike Sweitzer-Beckman at 608/257-3863 or mikeb@forwardci.org. Space is limited, so your RSVP is much appreciated!
Other News:
May 12, 2009, 12:00 noon: Rally for the reinstatement of tax exemption legislation
Location: Wisconsin State Capitol, King Street entrance
To receive additional information about this event, contact: 5-12-09-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
This is an important issue with a lot of nuances and possibilities for financial impact - keeping up with all of the details can be time-consuming and confusing. So nonprofit staff and stakeholders can receive timely information and keep in touch with others about how to address this issue, the board of directors at the Social Justice Center in Madison has organized a listserv. If you are interested in joining, you can subscribe by sending an email to wipropertytaxexemptionadvocates-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. Remember to change the settings if you want to receive individual emails, a daily digest of all the emails, or simply read the emails online.
Thanks for your interest and we hope to see you on Friday, May 15!
Sincerely,
Salli Martyniak, President
Forward Community Investments
Read more!
Listening Session on Poverty
The County wants to hear from you, near east siders, about your thoughts on poverty!
Read more!
Notice of Districts 2 and 6 Listening Session on Poverty
Date & Time: May 18, 2009 – 6:30 PM
Location: Hawthorne Branch Library
2707 E. Washington Avenue
Madison, WI
Dane County Supervisors Barbara Vedder, District 2, and John Hendrick, District 6, are convening a listening session to take public testimony on Poverty. Members of the public and other agencies are invited to attend. Areas of interest are:
1) What is working well?
2) Where are the greatest needs?
3) What can be done to strengthen your community that does not require funding?
4) What are the top priorities that require funding to improve your lives?
PLEASE NOTE:
1) Persons requiring an interpreter, materials in alternate format or other accommodations to access this meeting are encouraged to contact the Human Services Department at 288-2513 or TDD 242-7556 at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.
2) A quorum of the Task Force on Poverty may be present, but they will not convene or conduct any business.
3) This listening session may be attended by other Supervisors and may result in a quorum of another committee being in attendance, but they will not convene or conduct any business.
Read more!
Tent City Rally Today at Noon at the King St Entrance to Capital
A rally to support a state level fix to the property tax exemption issue for non-profits.
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“Tent City” rally to highlight need to restore property-tax exemption for non-profit housing providers
An ad-hoc organization is planning a rally at the Wisconsin State Capitol’s King Street entrance on Tuesday, May 12th at Noon to highlight the need for state government to immediately restore the property-tax exemption for non-profit housing providers.
A recent court case last fall and a subsequent interpretation by the state’s Department of Revenue have changed which properties belonging to providers of affordable housing can continue to be property-tax exempt. As a result, municipalities all over Wisconsin are establishing procedures to assess properties owned and operated by non-profit housing providers and, in some cases, have already issued tax bills for several such property owners.
Unless the State Legislature and the Governor act to change the State Statutes, buildings that house thousands of low-income individuals and families will be subject to property taxation with possible devastating effects. “Right now, our budgets are stretched thin as they are,” said Dean Loumos, Executive Director of Housing Initiatives, Inc. of Madison. Housing Initiatives owns and operates 51 housing units for previously-homeless individuals and families who are affected by severe mental illness. Loumos added, “We have developed these properties under property-tax exemption rules that have been in place for decades. If the state doesn’t change them back to where they have been, we stand to receive a property tax bill of around $70,000. My agency and others like us cannot afford that kind of a hit. We would have to make some tough choices which may include reducing services and housing fewer clients.”
Housing Initiatives, Inc. is one of about 40 agencies operating in Madison alone that could be receiving property tax bills for nearly 1,700 housing units.
The main focus of the rally is to remind Governor Doyle, the State Legislature and municipalities around Wisconsin that during these tough economic conditions, where tent cities are starting to spring up around the nation as more and more people become homeless, they should not balance their budgets on the backs of thousands of low-income individuals and families who will be adversely affected and should instead act quickly to restore the property-tax exempt status.
For more information on Tuesday’s rally and the property-tax exemption issue, please contact Dean Loumos at (608) 332-2095.
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Monday, May 11, 2009
The Week Ahead
Here it is . . .
Monday, May 11, 2009
4:30 PM BOARD OF ESTIMATES ROOM 260
- Stimulus money
- Mini reorganization in Community Development Block Grant office - here and here.
- Police are getting a new LTE position
- Human Resources folks seem to be getting raises - here, here, here and here.
- Finally, after 3 years, sick leave for hourly employees!! We put it in the budget 3 years in a row and they finally are going to have the ability to spend the money!
- Police overtime report - and it actually went DOWN!
- Plastic bag ordinance
- More making affordable housing, less affordable.
- Hiring and intern instead of getting software recommended in the Economic Development Plan
- Capital West TIF agreement, sponsored by Bruer AND Verveer, looks like the fight is over.
- Unlike non-profit affordable housing, Walgreens gets their taxes back.
- Going into closed session to talk about several tax cases (Finally! Why they didn't do this months ago, I don't know.)
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
5:00 PM AFFIRMATIVE ACTION COMMISSION ROOM LL-120 MMB
- Report on women, minorities and people of color on city committees and the Mayor's useless report.
5:00 PM TRANSIT AND PARKING COMMISSION ROOM 260 MMB
- Downtown plan and multi-modal downtown transportation plan presentation.
- Redevelopment of Municipal building/hotel and parking ramps
- Watch out! "Service Improvements" (i.e. cuts) are coming. Not currently attached but should be coming before tomorrow?
- Low income bus pass program
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
4:30 AM CDA HOUSING OPERATIONS SUBCOMMITTEE ROOM 120 MMB
- HA!, you really think they are meeting at 4 am? The agenda says pm, looks like just a screw up in the clerk's office which will likely be corrected after they read this! :)
Thursday, May 14, 2009
4:30 PM COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY ROOM 260 MMB
- Lakepoint, Allied, Truman Olson, Truax and Villager . . . as usual. Hard to tell what they might be talking about, not many attachments.
5:30 PM CENTRAL LIBRARY DISPOSAL SURPLUS PROPERTY CRITERIA AND SELECTION COMMITTEE CENTRAL LIBRARY, 201 W MIFFLIN ST, R00M 202
- Looks like they'll spend time discussing their recommendation (again, no attachments)
Read more!
Monday, May 11, 2009
4:30 PM BOARD OF ESTIMATES ROOM 260
- Stimulus money
- Mini reorganization in Community Development Block Grant office - here and here.
- Police are getting a new LTE position
- Human Resources folks seem to be getting raises - here, here, here and here.
- Finally, after 3 years, sick leave for hourly employees!! We put it in the budget 3 years in a row and they finally are going to have the ability to spend the money!
- Police overtime report - and it actually went DOWN!
- Plastic bag ordinance
- More making affordable housing, less affordable.
- Hiring and intern instead of getting software recommended in the Economic Development Plan
- Capital West TIF agreement, sponsored by Bruer AND Verveer, looks like the fight is over.
- Unlike non-profit affordable housing, Walgreens gets their taxes back.
- Going into closed session to talk about several tax cases (Finally! Why they didn't do this months ago, I don't know.)
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
5:00 PM AFFIRMATIVE ACTION COMMISSION ROOM LL-120 MMB
- Report on women, minorities and people of color on city committees and the Mayor's useless report.
5:00 PM TRANSIT AND PARKING COMMISSION ROOM 260 MMB
- Downtown plan and multi-modal downtown transportation plan presentation.
- Redevelopment of Municipal building/hotel and parking ramps
- Watch out! "Service Improvements" (i.e. cuts) are coming. Not currently attached but should be coming before tomorrow?
- Low income bus pass program
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
4:30 AM CDA HOUSING OPERATIONS SUBCOMMITTEE ROOM 120 MMB
- HA!, you really think they are meeting at 4 am? The agenda says pm, looks like just a screw up in the clerk's office which will likely be corrected after they read this! :)
Thursday, May 14, 2009
4:30 PM COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY ROOM 260 MMB
- Lakepoint, Allied, Truman Olson, Truax and Villager . . . as usual. Hard to tell what they might be talking about, not many attachments.
5:30 PM CENTRAL LIBRARY DISPOSAL SURPLUS PROPERTY CRITERIA AND SELECTION COMMITTEE CENTRAL LIBRARY, 201 W MIFFLIN ST, R00M 202
- Looks like they'll spend time discussing their recommendation (again, no attachments)
Read more!
Friday, May 8, 2009
Compost Bin Sale Saturday
From the lovely George Dreckman . . . (with a few corrections and tidying up the links)
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The City of Madison will be hosting its umpteenth home compost bin sale this Saturday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., or while supplies last. The event will take place at the Alliant Energy Center, Olin Av parking lot.
For details on the sale click here.
This is a one day only sale, rain or shine. Compost bins will only be available on Saturday, we will not be holding on to any bins after the sale so get em while you can.
Sustain Dane will also be on hand selling rain barrels. For details click here.
After you get you compost bin and rain barrel why not stop by the Water Utility's Open House. For more information click here.
Hope to see you on Saturday.
George
George P. Dreckmann
Recycling Coordinator
1501 W. Badger Rd
Madison, WI 53713
608-267-2626
FAX 608-267-1120
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County Board Recap - Basics
Yup - that's not a typo, I know I make lots of typos, but its really the County Board recap. 7 Swine Flu Cases and Update, County Exec talks to County Board about $5 - 6M budget gap, will county have to pay $19.5M for Family Care, Sheriff Mahoney and Checking Immigration Status and buying property in honor of Lyman Anderson. We'll see how this goes . . . comments about differences of interest that I observed between the Council and County Board are sprinkled throughout for those of you who are less familiar with the County Board. [Agenda on-line here, its one big document, without the ability to link to individual items on the agenda but all the attachments are there if you want to see specifics.]
Meeting called to order by County Board Chair Scott McDonell at 7:00 or a minute or two later. [Much better job of starting on time than the City Council.]
A. ROLL CALL: Hesselbein and Martz were notified absences on the agenda. Willet, Vogel and Jensen also excused. 3 others also absent but unexcused - Solberg, Erickson, Schlicht and others in and out of the meeting. Erickson showed up later, Schmidt and Solberg went home early at some point. [This seems kind of confusing with a bigger body. The politics of getting the votes you need much be so much harder for the county board because their items pass with a majority of the people there present voting in favor. With 8 or 9 absences, it seems that you have to count and re-count as people come and go from the meeting. On the council, you just need to count to 11 and keep those people in the room to get your votes.]
1. Prayer/Inspirational Message - Schmidt
- 1914 Mother's Day established as a holiday. Asked people to remember mothers who made a difference in their life. She dedicated her comments to her mother who died in a car accident two years ago. [The County Board is much more formal, they stand when they speak and they have quite a bit of pomp and circumstance. They seem a bit more old fashioned in their approach to things.]
2. Pledge of Allegiance led by Schmidt [See commend above. They also seem a little more patriotic with their little flags on their desks and the pledge. It gives the impression that they take their role as a governing body a little more seriously.]
Chair McDonell welcomes Supervisors Stubbs back. She has been out for an extended period of time after a car accident and back injuries. [Many of you know this, but the County Executive is not a member of the body as the Mayor is at the City. She does not chair the meeting and often is not even present. The county board elects their chair who actually makes appointments, chairs the meetings, truly sets the agendas and plays a much larger leadership role. On the council, the Council President is much more window dressing with much less actual power to get things done.]
B. SPECIAL MATTERS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Res. 1, 09-10 - Celebrating Marueen Arcand's 80th Birthday
McDonell says it will be postponed again until she can be present. There is no objection.
2. Res 15, 09-10 - Recognizing Luis Bixler, 2009 Wisconsin Telecommunicator of the Year
Bayrd and Rusk present the resolution - read by Bayrd. Motion to approve and second by Bayrd and Rusk. He speaks and thanks family for support and understanding for when he has to do extra shifts. He also thanks his fellow workers and says he really shares the award with his co-workers. [Here the members of the body actually honor people in the community, on the Council, only the Mayor does that.]
3. Res 16, 09-10 - Recognizing Broom Street Theatre on its 40th Anniversary
Hendrick reads it the resolution. Approval moved by Hendrick, seconded by Richmond. Artistic Director says a few words. His is honored to be part of cultural landscape of Dane County. He talks about the many actors who have performed at Broom St. He also says that they hope to be around for 40 more years.
SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA
NEW 4 - Dr. Thomas Schlenker, Director, Public Health Madison & Dane county - H1N1 Flu Update [This wasn't on the on-line version of the agenda, but instead on the desk of the supervisors and I got a copy as "the media". The media are treated well at the county board. Copies of the agenda are given to them and the staff make sure that they get copies of many things that are handed out. At the Common Council, they are largely formally ignored and its up to elected officials to advocate with them more informally. At least one supervisor seemed annoyed to see me sitting in the media row and told me I belonged sitting elsewhere, but many others were pleased that they would be getting some more attention.]
Dr. Schlenker says that two weeks ago the medical community began to be aware that something unusual was happening in Mexico. He says flu in the in spring is surprising. He also said that this was a swine flu type - the same kind of flu virus that killed people in 1918 and 1919. He said at first there was a great deal of conflicting information from Mexico - with many deaths and hospitalizations. He's happy to say that they know alot more about the virus and illness now. Good news is that it is not as severe as initially thought. Does not appear to be any more severe than normal flu, but it is spreading rapidly around world and in WI. There are now 7 confirmed cases in Dane County and they are pretty spread throughout the city. They are in east, west and south Madison as well as Sun Prairie. He expects many more tomorrow and that it will spread widely in Dane County and will continue for the next week or two. He expects alot of people to become ill and that means coughing, fever, body aches and typical flu symptoms for a few days and then they bounce back and be as good as new. He doesn't think it will be worse than the normal flu. He says the 7 cases are all children from 5 schools and day cares. He says not to expect schools to close, but rather people who are ill will be asked to stay home and stay isolated in homes for 7 days for the period they would be contagious. Most people don't need any treatment except rest, liquids and tylenol or motrin. Those who are at higher risk for which tamaful is recommended are if they have underlying conditions, particularly chronic lung problems, or if they are 65+ or 5 years old or younger. He says if those at higher risk are ill or exposed they should take the medication. Its a prescription available through doctor and no shortage of it. If they have no physician or insurance they should contact public health.
Hulsey asks about preventative measures? Schlenker says if you are sick, stay home. He recommends covering coughs and sneezes, wash hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol based liquid. He suggests that people keep hand sanitizers at their desk or in their purse or pocket. Hulsey makes a crack about how you should just listen to your mother and Schlenker agrees, especially with mother's day coming up.
Hulsey asks about the reported deaths and how big of a threat this really is. Schlenker says influenza recreates itself in a in new strain every year or two and it is a significant health problem because millions get it every year and about 30,000 die because so widespread. But he adds 99% are just sick for a few days and get better. People who die are at risk people because of underlying conditions or old or young.
Schmidt commends Dr. Schlenker and staff because of the long days they have worked, but also thanks him for the daily updates. She says the rational and accurate information was helpful and she said that the lack of information is what makes people worry. Schlenker says they did debate if that was appropriate to give daily updates and no one said they didn't want the information but many were grateful.
McDonell asks what to expect in the fall? Schlenker says that it is possible to come back in fall and be much worse. He explains that is the nature of influenza because the strains mutate. This one is very transmissible. He says it can become more lethal and it only takes one or two mutations to make that happen. He notes the virus likes cold and dry and we are lucky because of all the information now, more people will get vaccinated in the fall.
NEW 5 - County Executive Kathleen Falk - Report on County's Financial Situation [pursuant to Dane County Ordinances s. 29.52 (20)]
County Executive Kathleen Falk speaks about the current financial situation for the County. She hands out a three page written statement the is essentially what she tells the County Board. Here's a quick summary of the highlights:
- County has same problems as national and world economy and that has altered the state's fiscal situation and its taking a toll on County budget.
- The county needs to take steps now to address the situation.
- 2 weeks ago the County Controller [not Comptroller] found that they are projecting $2M less in sales tax revenue, $2M less in investment income and $1M less in recording fees and construction related permits.
- Depressed home sales and construction market, decrease in consumer confidence and spending, delays in large-scale, private sector development have led to these losses.
- Other factors are adding to the loss of revenues such as relatively high and increasing unemployment and stock market and pension losses which have slowed county retirements which means that they have had to have hiring delays and freezes and so they are not getting the projected savings they rely on in the budget.
- They are looking at a $5 - 6 million shortfall in their budget. [I've heard it is likely to be even more!]
- Some departments are further challenged such as some decisions about mental health and disability services which are making it difficult for Human Services to meet their budget.
- Overtime in the Sheriff's Department has improved but there is more work to do.
- Higher utility costs are larger than expected.
- They are taking steps to address problems such as they negotiated contracts to lock in fuel cost savings when fuel costs were low. They will get money from MG&E for their methane-generated electricity if the request is approved by the Public Service Commission. They are selling houses and buildings that they have acquired with land purchases. However, this only will bring in $1M.
- She says they need to take action on two other fronts cut operating costs and personnel costs.
- She has met with department heads and they have frozen all employment, conference, training and travel expenses. Only Certified Nursing Attendants and Registered Nurses at Badger prairie and 911 communicators supervisors are exempt from the the freeze. Appeals will be available for essential hiring and training for licenses and certificates.
- Department heads have been instructed to review all spending and pay special attention to LTEs and projects, initiatives or operations that they have not started.
- They are reviewing grant programs like B.U.I.L.D. and Cultural Affairs.
- Some departments, like Human Services, directors will have to look for modest but widespread cuts to stay on budget.
- Regarding personnel, the major driver of county spending, she is asking all county employees (elected officials, department heads, managers and non-represented and represented workers) to make reasonable and fair sacrifices.
- She says she has been talking to the nine unions.
- She says they need to save $3M in personnel costs.
- There could be 80 - 110 layoffs.
- Could delay contracted cost of living adjustments (COLA) or reduce salaries and wages.
- She believe furloughs could have the best results with least disruptions. She says that if they close 5 days they could save $2M. She suggests closing most government functions on Fridays or portions of Fridays during the summer or before long holidays.
- She notes some functions like law enforcement, 911, Badger Prairie Nursing home cannot stop, but people who work on those days would be expected to take another unpaid day.
- She says these ideas are illustrative and must be negotiated with the unions.
- Expects elected officials and contract managers to make the same sacrifices that employees take on.
- She will not take the 1% increase authorized by the County Board [at the city, elected officials cannot turn back in their pay.] and she will participate in any furlough or cost-cutting measures county employees have to endure.
- For next year's budget, they need to look to the stimulus money to help solve the problems, however stimulus funds cannot supplant budgeted funds.
- Need to rescrutinize capital expenses and projects to see what can be reduced or delayed. She notes this will not help this year's budget, but will aid with next year's debt service.
- She also expects more bad news to come.
- She thinks that they will have $1M in state aids starting July 1 (State's fiscal year.)
- Notes that with yesterday's news from the Governor, it could get even worse.
She thanks Chair McDonell and Hulsey, who chairs their finance committee, for their efforts.
Hulsey asks her to outline the furlough concept as opposed to lay offs. She says furlough needs to have several essential elements. She says it needs to cause the least disruption, they will be unpaid days and hopefully several days over the course of the year. She notes Fridays before holidays will have the least impact on constituents. Other critical elements are that employees are treated fairly. She notes that you can't shut down the jail and those who have to work would need to take another day off so they share in the pain. She says that 5 days could save $2M in savings. She notes that this needs to be negotiated with the unions.
Hulsey notes that this years operating and capital budget will be reviewed on Monday at their finance committee. [I forget the official name, will have to look it up. Personnel and Finance?] He also said that he would have several items introduced tonight to address these issues. [Instead of verbally introducing items at the end of the meeting, they pass items around and supervisors sign on and review the items, so the members of the public don't really get to hear what those introduced items might be.]
was 4. now 6. Collection of Flower Fund
A quick items were some people noted that they owed money because they missed it last time they requested money.
was 5. now 7. Announcements
Downing - MHAAA (Mt. Horeb Arts Group) and Dane County Arts Commission sponsoring art spring arts tour June 12 - 14. He says there is a display here in Madison and reception tomorrow evening at Overture 5 - 8.
Miles - EconDevo Comm resolution will be introduced tonight that will place a priority of spending recovery dollars locally when possible.
Schmidt - She said others signs of spring include the backyard compost bin sale ($40) 9 - 4 at the Alliant Center Saturday and she encouraged people to attend their local farmers market, including Monona 9 to 4 and Fitchburg and others.
Stubbs - thanks chair for visiting her in the hospital and supervisors who made phone calls, cards and visits. She had no idea would be gone so long. Thanks her constituents for being patient. Says she will try to stay the whole night if she feels well. Thanks to staff for calls and to HHN committee for working in her absence.
Hendrick - Invite supervisors to ceremony 11 am on Saturday to honor Gerald Stall. Notes that they adopted a resolution thanking him and his family last year. Says it was 51 years ago this week that while returning a jet to Truax there were problems and he intentionally directed the plane into Lake Monona to save the Hudson Park Neighborhood.
Bruskewitz - Challenges golfers to challenger her in the Madison Area Rehab Center (MARC) golf classic June 16. Invites them to join her foursome to help people with developmental disabilities.
Salov - June is dairy month and invites supervisors to the farm breakfast on June 13th. Its a dairy farm and he notes that milk prices are low right now.
[Council makes their announcements at the end of the meeting. It's better because it doesn't waste the public's time who are here to speak on other matters. But, it also defeats the purpose of the announcements if no one hears them - except those who are watching on TV.]
All of that was done in 40 minutes. [They seem so much more efficient than the Common Council.]
C. APPROVAL OF BILLS & ACCOUNTS
1. Claims recommended for Approval
Ferrell, Gau move and second. There is no discussion and they pass on a voice vote.
D. APPROVAL OF PROCEEDINGS - April 2 & 23, 2009
Matano, de Felice move approval. There is no discussion and they pass on a voice vote.
E. CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Res 286, 08-09 - Authorizing Amendment to the Intergovernmental Agreement Between the City of Madison and Dane County Creating the City-County Health Department (Adopt)
2. Res. 293, 08-09 - Approving Lease with Ice Age Park and Trail Foundation (Adopt)
3. Res. 295, 08-09 - Authorizing Grant Applications to the WI Department of Natural Resources (Adopt)
Veldran abstains on 2. The three items pass on a voice vote.
[When something comes from committee at the County Board, no motion is made from the floor, the item before the body is the recommendation of the committee. I think that is a more formal following of Robert's Rules and perhaps a more appropriate way to do it.]
F. [No items, so it just skips to G on the Agenda, there is also no K or L.]
G. REPORTS ON ZONING PETITIONS
a. Map of Dane County
b. Summary of Grant as Modified Petitions
1. Petition 10029 - Town of Pleasant Springs - Janell Julseth (Grant as Modified)
2. Petition 10033 - Town of Windsor - William Schwartz (Grant as Modified)
3. Petition 10037 - Town of Deerfield - Dale Liebert (Grant)
No separations - passed on a voice vote that seemed unanimous.
H. ORDINANCES
1. Ord. Amdt. 24, 08-09 - Amending Chapter 82, Incorporating the Grandview-Fitchrona Neighborhood Plan into the Dane County Comprehensive Plan (Deny)
Motion is denial. No discussion. Passes unanimously.
2. Ord. Amdt. 39, 08-09 - Amending Chapters 2, 11, 12 and 14, Regarding Erosion Control Provisions (Adopt with Amendments)
Motion is adoption with amendments, basically following the ERNR recommendation. [I hope I have that committee right]
Hulsey says that Lakes and Watershed is meeting next week and they haven't talked about this yet and moves to postpone to next meeting, Matano second. Passes unanimously.
I. AWARD OF CONTRACTS
1. Res 258, 08-09 - Authorizing the Acquisition of Land from the Lyman Anderson Family (Adopt)
1 registrant, Bill White [At the County Board, speakers get 5 minutes to speak instead of 3]
Bill White - is speaking on behalf of Lyman Anderson Family. He introduces Pat and Lynette Anderson - family members of the late Lyman Anderson who served on the County Baord for 27 years. As years pass, less remember him but he was a fiscal conservative, loved nature, and legacies for generations to come. They have worked with county and they think they have a proposal that works in the interest of the County. It is a phased purchase over 3 years. This is the first year and the sales price is 60 cents for each dollar of value at time of his death. The family will also create an endowment fund of $1000 per acre sold which will be used for maintenance and planning. There should be no on-going appropriations for several years to come for the county. He notes that the quarry on site will be donated with no additional cost at end of useful life of quarry. He suggests it could be used as an education center for geology of the area and to remember how roads built. They also see community farms, both active and passive recreation usses of the land including playing fields and other other activities. The family will continue using the houses on site. If they decide to sell outside the family - they will give county 1st right of refusal to buy the buildings. He thinks it is a good public-private partnership. Knows its tough times, but doesn't think we should we stop looking ahead. He says they tried to spread out costs over period of years and minimize costs for the County.
Patricia and Lynette Anderson are registered in support as well.
QUESTIONS
Stoebig asks about the quarry and the reclamation plan? Bill says that the county will be responsible for reclamation plan that would need to be changed as the educational opportunity isn't allowed. He says they are working with the Park Division to change the reclamation plan.
Richmond asks how long they have been working on this and what adoption means tonight. Bill says they've been working on it for 2.5 years. Bill says the deal has evolved. Says he understands the political realism, would like it approved tonight, but its not war if its not. He would like to get it on another agenda as soon as possible. He says that the economic circumstances have already been taken into account and incorporated into the plan.
DISCUSSION
Hulsey - Thanks family, says walked the land and its beautiful, tried to put conserve back in conservative, but also asks what would Lyman do? Given current budget circumstances need to make sure it fits into total budget picture.
Hulsey moves to re-refer to finance committee on Monday night. Second by DeSchmidt. No discussion, passes on voice vote.
2. Res 284, 08-09 - Authorizing Employment Agreement for Director of Public Safety Communications Center (Adopt)
No discussion. Roll Call vote:
AYE: Schmidt, Solberg, Stubbs, Vedder, Veldran, Wheeler, Bayrd, deFelice, DeSmidt, Downing, Erickson, Hampton, Hendrick, Hulsey, Kostelic, Levin, Manning, Matano, Miles, O'Laughlin, Opitz, Richmond, Rusk, McDonell
NO: Wiganowski, Bruskewitz, Ferrell, Gau, Ripp, Salov, Schlicht
ABSENT: Vogel, Willet, Hesselbein, Jensen, Martz
[My understanding is that some of the conservatives, after all of this, felt like $120,000 was too much to being paying the new director. Wiggy has another excuse later about why he voted the way he did. If his excuse were true, he could have just made a motion to postpone.]
3. Res 296, 08-09 - Award of Contraact for Tenant Improvement 1st and 3rd Floor - CCB (Adopt Sub 1)
Hulsey out of room. Matano moves referral to Personnel and Finance, second by Hendrick. Hulsy back and says same reasons as with item 1 (Lyman Anderson Land).
Gau asks question for committee. Wants to make sure that the capital funds from 2010 are relieved with stimulus funds.
Hulsey outlines some possibilities such as with the clean water legacy fund where they might get state money. Also looking into energy conservation bonds. He says they are also looking for other solutions.
Veldran - Energy task force and looking to add something as a project - not sure what.
The motion passed unanimously on a voice vote.
At this point, it was a few minutes before 8:00.
J. RESOLUTIONS
1. Res 294, 08-09 - Approving Billboard Lease on County Land (Adopt)
Hendrick asked to be recorded as voting no.
No discussion, several audible "no"s, chair ruled it carries. [Seemed close to me, I'd have asked for a roll call, but I'm just like that. :) ]
2. Res 300, 08-09 - Urging Equitable Funding for Long Term Care (Adopt with Amendment)
See separate post (Sorry, I can't blog at work, too much other stuff to do, it will have to wait til after work or later this weekend. I had hoped to get it done, but I failed!).
At this point is was 8:40. Items 3 & 4 in this section were taken up together. See separate post (hopefully this morning yet) on this item.
3. RE 13, 09-10 - Updating Dane County Privacy Policy Concerning Access to County Services (No recommendation)
Chair McDonell reported that the committee has not reported and that item 3 is not properly before the County Board. He will let people registered on 3. talk on 4. instead if they want to.
Bruskewitz rises for a point of information. Asks why not properly before them. Then she gets confused, and realizes that she understands what is going on. AFter the confusion is settles she still talks and says "My point is this" . . . there was a resolution that was to be presented to night to access to social security numbers and with register of deeds this was referred to this meeting.
Miles says the committee he is on is working on it, that at the last meeting questions were raised and they asked register of deeds to answer questions and it is postponed at this time. Chair explains that he expects it back at the next meeting . . . if the committee acts on it. He says he doesn't really have any control over that.
4. Res 14, 09-10 - Creating the Dane County Immigration Task Force (No recommendation)
See separate post (still working on it!).
M. SUCH OTHER BUSINESS AS THE COUNTY BOARD IS AUTHORIZED TO CONDUCT BY LAW
Wiggy explains his vote on the 911 director. He says it would have been unanimous, but he hasn't ever met him. Would like to meet him and have him come to another meeting. Wants to let people know that there aren't any ill feelings. McDonell explains it was hard to get him here as he is still working at his old job.
Rusk says he met with 911 director last week talking about operability in our brand new system and that he went to Kansas City even though he wasn't even on payroll yet. Says he was impressed with the new director.
N. ADJOURN
Motion to adjourn - passes. It was about 10:20.
So, there you have it, most of my first county board blog. Feel free to contact me if you have any suggestions. I'm not sure that I will so thoroughly blog all meetings, this just had some items of interest. Sorry it was late this morning, too many other things going on!
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Meeting called to order by County Board Chair Scott McDonell at 7:00 or a minute or two later. [Much better job of starting on time than the City Council.]
A. ROLL CALL: Hesselbein and Martz were notified absences on the agenda. Willet, Vogel and Jensen also excused. 3 others also absent but unexcused - Solberg, Erickson, Schlicht and others in and out of the meeting. Erickson showed up later, Schmidt and Solberg went home early at some point. [This seems kind of confusing with a bigger body. The politics of getting the votes you need much be so much harder for the county board because their items pass with a majority of the people there present voting in favor. With 8 or 9 absences, it seems that you have to count and re-count as people come and go from the meeting. On the council, you just need to count to 11 and keep those people in the room to get your votes.]
1. Prayer/Inspirational Message - Schmidt
- 1914 Mother's Day established as a holiday. Asked people to remember mothers who made a difference in their life. She dedicated her comments to her mother who died in a car accident two years ago. [The County Board is much more formal, they stand when they speak and they have quite a bit of pomp and circumstance. They seem a bit more old fashioned in their approach to things.]
2. Pledge of Allegiance led by Schmidt [See commend above. They also seem a little more patriotic with their little flags on their desks and the pledge. It gives the impression that they take their role as a governing body a little more seriously.]
Chair McDonell welcomes Supervisors Stubbs back. She has been out for an extended period of time after a car accident and back injuries. [Many of you know this, but the County Executive is not a member of the body as the Mayor is at the City. She does not chair the meeting and often is not even present. The county board elects their chair who actually makes appointments, chairs the meetings, truly sets the agendas and plays a much larger leadership role. On the council, the Council President is much more window dressing with much less actual power to get things done.]
B. SPECIAL MATTERS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Res. 1, 09-10 - Celebrating Marueen Arcand's 80th Birthday
McDonell says it will be postponed again until she can be present. There is no objection.
2. Res 15, 09-10 - Recognizing Luis Bixler, 2009 Wisconsin Telecommunicator of the Year
Bayrd and Rusk present the resolution - read by Bayrd. Motion to approve and second by Bayrd and Rusk. He speaks and thanks family for support and understanding for when he has to do extra shifts. He also thanks his fellow workers and says he really shares the award with his co-workers. [Here the members of the body actually honor people in the community, on the Council, only the Mayor does that.]
3. Res 16, 09-10 - Recognizing Broom Street Theatre on its 40th Anniversary
Hendrick reads it the resolution. Approval moved by Hendrick, seconded by Richmond. Artistic Director says a few words. His is honored to be part of cultural landscape of Dane County. He talks about the many actors who have performed at Broom St. He also says that they hope to be around for 40 more years.
SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA
NEW 4 - Dr. Thomas Schlenker, Director, Public Health Madison & Dane county - H1N1 Flu Update [This wasn't on the on-line version of the agenda, but instead on the desk of the supervisors and I got a copy as "the media". The media are treated well at the county board. Copies of the agenda are given to them and the staff make sure that they get copies of many things that are handed out. At the Common Council, they are largely formally ignored and its up to elected officials to advocate with them more informally. At least one supervisor seemed annoyed to see me sitting in the media row and told me I belonged sitting elsewhere, but many others were pleased that they would be getting some more attention.]
Dr. Schlenker says that two weeks ago the medical community began to be aware that something unusual was happening in Mexico. He says flu in the in spring is surprising. He also said that this was a swine flu type - the same kind of flu virus that killed people in 1918 and 1919. He said at first there was a great deal of conflicting information from Mexico - with many deaths and hospitalizations. He's happy to say that they know alot more about the virus and illness now. Good news is that it is not as severe as initially thought. Does not appear to be any more severe than normal flu, but it is spreading rapidly around world and in WI. There are now 7 confirmed cases in Dane County and they are pretty spread throughout the city. They are in east, west and south Madison as well as Sun Prairie. He expects many more tomorrow and that it will spread widely in Dane County and will continue for the next week or two. He expects alot of people to become ill and that means coughing, fever, body aches and typical flu symptoms for a few days and then they bounce back and be as good as new. He doesn't think it will be worse than the normal flu. He says the 7 cases are all children from 5 schools and day cares. He says not to expect schools to close, but rather people who are ill will be asked to stay home and stay isolated in homes for 7 days for the period they would be contagious. Most people don't need any treatment except rest, liquids and tylenol or motrin. Those who are at higher risk for which tamaful is recommended are if they have underlying conditions, particularly chronic lung problems, or if they are 65+ or 5 years old or younger. He says if those at higher risk are ill or exposed they should take the medication. Its a prescription available through doctor and no shortage of it. If they have no physician or insurance they should contact public health.
Hulsey asks about preventative measures? Schlenker says if you are sick, stay home. He recommends covering coughs and sneezes, wash hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol based liquid. He suggests that people keep hand sanitizers at their desk or in their purse or pocket. Hulsey makes a crack about how you should just listen to your mother and Schlenker agrees, especially with mother's day coming up.
Hulsey asks about the reported deaths and how big of a threat this really is. Schlenker says influenza recreates itself in a in new strain every year or two and it is a significant health problem because millions get it every year and about 30,000 die because so widespread. But he adds 99% are just sick for a few days and get better. People who die are at risk people because of underlying conditions or old or young.
Schmidt commends Dr. Schlenker and staff because of the long days they have worked, but also thanks him for the daily updates. She says the rational and accurate information was helpful and she said that the lack of information is what makes people worry. Schlenker says they did debate if that was appropriate to give daily updates and no one said they didn't want the information but many were grateful.
McDonell asks what to expect in the fall? Schlenker says that it is possible to come back in fall and be much worse. He explains that is the nature of influenza because the strains mutate. This one is very transmissible. He says it can become more lethal and it only takes one or two mutations to make that happen. He notes the virus likes cold and dry and we are lucky because of all the information now, more people will get vaccinated in the fall.
NEW 5 - County Executive Kathleen Falk - Report on County's Financial Situation [pursuant to Dane County Ordinances s. 29.52 (20)]
County Executive Kathleen Falk speaks about the current financial situation for the County. She hands out a three page written statement the is essentially what she tells the County Board. Here's a quick summary of the highlights:
- County has same problems as national and world economy and that has altered the state's fiscal situation and its taking a toll on County budget.
- The county needs to take steps now to address the situation.
- 2 weeks ago the County Controller [not Comptroller] found that they are projecting $2M less in sales tax revenue, $2M less in investment income and $1M less in recording fees and construction related permits.
- Depressed home sales and construction market, decrease in consumer confidence and spending, delays in large-scale, private sector development have led to these losses.
- Other factors are adding to the loss of revenues such as relatively high and increasing unemployment and stock market and pension losses which have slowed county retirements which means that they have had to have hiring delays and freezes and so they are not getting the projected savings they rely on in the budget.
- They are looking at a $5 - 6 million shortfall in their budget. [I've heard it is likely to be even more!]
- Some departments are further challenged such as some decisions about mental health and disability services which are making it difficult for Human Services to meet their budget.
- Overtime in the Sheriff's Department has improved but there is more work to do.
- Higher utility costs are larger than expected.
- They are taking steps to address problems such as they negotiated contracts to lock in fuel cost savings when fuel costs were low. They will get money from MG&E for their methane-generated electricity if the request is approved by the Public Service Commission. They are selling houses and buildings that they have acquired with land purchases. However, this only will bring in $1M.
- She says they need to take action on two other fronts cut operating costs and personnel costs.
- She has met with department heads and they have frozen all employment, conference, training and travel expenses. Only Certified Nursing Attendants and Registered Nurses at Badger prairie and 911 communicators supervisors are exempt from the the freeze. Appeals will be available for essential hiring and training for licenses and certificates.
- Department heads have been instructed to review all spending and pay special attention to LTEs and projects, initiatives or operations that they have not started.
- They are reviewing grant programs like B.U.I.L.D. and Cultural Affairs.
- Some departments, like Human Services, directors will have to look for modest but widespread cuts to stay on budget.
- Regarding personnel, the major driver of county spending, she is asking all county employees (elected officials, department heads, managers and non-represented and represented workers) to make reasonable and fair sacrifices.
- She says she has been talking to the nine unions.
- She says they need to save $3M in personnel costs.
- There could be 80 - 110 layoffs.
- Could delay contracted cost of living adjustments (COLA) or reduce salaries and wages.
- She believe furloughs could have the best results with least disruptions. She says that if they close 5 days they could save $2M. She suggests closing most government functions on Fridays or portions of Fridays during the summer or before long holidays.
- She notes some functions like law enforcement, 911, Badger Prairie Nursing home cannot stop, but people who work on those days would be expected to take another unpaid day.
- She says these ideas are illustrative and must be negotiated with the unions.
- Expects elected officials and contract managers to make the same sacrifices that employees take on.
- She will not take the 1% increase authorized by the County Board [at the city, elected officials cannot turn back in their pay.] and she will participate in any furlough or cost-cutting measures county employees have to endure.
- For next year's budget, they need to look to the stimulus money to help solve the problems, however stimulus funds cannot supplant budgeted funds.
- Need to rescrutinize capital expenses and projects to see what can be reduced or delayed. She notes this will not help this year's budget, but will aid with next year's debt service.
- She also expects more bad news to come.
- She thinks that they will have $1M in state aids starting July 1 (State's fiscal year.)
- Notes that with yesterday's news from the Governor, it could get even worse.
She thanks Chair McDonell and Hulsey, who chairs their finance committee, for their efforts.
Hulsey asks her to outline the furlough concept as opposed to lay offs. She says furlough needs to have several essential elements. She says it needs to cause the least disruption, they will be unpaid days and hopefully several days over the course of the year. She notes Fridays before holidays will have the least impact on constituents. Other critical elements are that employees are treated fairly. She notes that you can't shut down the jail and those who have to work would need to take another day off so they share in the pain. She says that 5 days could save $2M in savings. She notes that this needs to be negotiated with the unions.
Hulsey notes that this years operating and capital budget will be reviewed on Monday at their finance committee. [I forget the official name, will have to look it up. Personnel and Finance?] He also said that he would have several items introduced tonight to address these issues. [Instead of verbally introducing items at the end of the meeting, they pass items around and supervisors sign on and review the items, so the members of the public don't really get to hear what those introduced items might be.]
was 4. now 6. Collection of Flower Fund
A quick items were some people noted that they owed money because they missed it last time they requested money.
was 5. now 7. Announcements
Downing - MHAAA (Mt. Horeb Arts Group) and Dane County Arts Commission sponsoring art spring arts tour June 12 - 14. He says there is a display here in Madison and reception tomorrow evening at Overture 5 - 8.
Miles - EconDevo Comm resolution will be introduced tonight that will place a priority of spending recovery dollars locally when possible.
Schmidt - She said others signs of spring include the backyard compost bin sale ($40) 9 - 4 at the Alliant Center Saturday and she encouraged people to attend their local farmers market, including Monona 9 to 4 and Fitchburg and others.
Stubbs - thanks chair for visiting her in the hospital and supervisors who made phone calls, cards and visits. She had no idea would be gone so long. Thanks her constituents for being patient. Says she will try to stay the whole night if she feels well. Thanks to staff for calls and to HHN committee for working in her absence.
Hendrick - Invite supervisors to ceremony 11 am on Saturday to honor Gerald Stall. Notes that they adopted a resolution thanking him and his family last year. Says it was 51 years ago this week that while returning a jet to Truax there were problems and he intentionally directed the plane into Lake Monona to save the Hudson Park Neighborhood.
Bruskewitz - Challenges golfers to challenger her in the Madison Area Rehab Center (MARC) golf classic June 16. Invites them to join her foursome to help people with developmental disabilities.
Salov - June is dairy month and invites supervisors to the farm breakfast on June 13th. Its a dairy farm and he notes that milk prices are low right now.
[Council makes their announcements at the end of the meeting. It's better because it doesn't waste the public's time who are here to speak on other matters. But, it also defeats the purpose of the announcements if no one hears them - except those who are watching on TV.]
All of that was done in 40 minutes. [They seem so much more efficient than the Common Council.]
C. APPROVAL OF BILLS & ACCOUNTS
1. Claims recommended for Approval
Ferrell, Gau move and second. There is no discussion and they pass on a voice vote.
D. APPROVAL OF PROCEEDINGS - April 2 & 23, 2009
Matano, de Felice move approval. There is no discussion and they pass on a voice vote.
E. CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Res 286, 08-09 - Authorizing Amendment to the Intergovernmental Agreement Between the City of Madison and Dane County Creating the City-County Health Department (Adopt)
2. Res. 293, 08-09 - Approving Lease with Ice Age Park and Trail Foundation (Adopt)
3. Res. 295, 08-09 - Authorizing Grant Applications to the WI Department of Natural Resources (Adopt)
Veldran abstains on 2. The three items pass on a voice vote.
[When something comes from committee at the County Board, no motion is made from the floor, the item before the body is the recommendation of the committee. I think that is a more formal following of Robert's Rules and perhaps a more appropriate way to do it.]
F. [No items, so it just skips to G on the Agenda, there is also no K or L.]
G. REPORTS ON ZONING PETITIONS
a. Map of Dane County
b. Summary of Grant as Modified Petitions
1. Petition 10029 - Town of Pleasant Springs - Janell Julseth (Grant as Modified)
2. Petition 10033 - Town of Windsor - William Schwartz (Grant as Modified)
3. Petition 10037 - Town of Deerfield - Dale Liebert (Grant)
No separations - passed on a voice vote that seemed unanimous.
H. ORDINANCES
1. Ord. Amdt. 24, 08-09 - Amending Chapter 82, Incorporating the Grandview-Fitchrona Neighborhood Plan into the Dane County Comprehensive Plan (Deny)
Motion is denial. No discussion. Passes unanimously.
2. Ord. Amdt. 39, 08-09 - Amending Chapters 2, 11, 12 and 14, Regarding Erosion Control Provisions (Adopt with Amendments)
Motion is adoption with amendments, basically following the ERNR recommendation. [I hope I have that committee right]
Hulsey says that Lakes and Watershed is meeting next week and they haven't talked about this yet and moves to postpone to next meeting, Matano second. Passes unanimously.
I. AWARD OF CONTRACTS
1. Res 258, 08-09 - Authorizing the Acquisition of Land from the Lyman Anderson Family (Adopt)
1 registrant, Bill White [At the County Board, speakers get 5 minutes to speak instead of 3]
Bill White - is speaking on behalf of Lyman Anderson Family. He introduces Pat and Lynette Anderson - family members of the late Lyman Anderson who served on the County Baord for 27 years. As years pass, less remember him but he was a fiscal conservative, loved nature, and legacies for generations to come. They have worked with county and they think they have a proposal that works in the interest of the County. It is a phased purchase over 3 years. This is the first year and the sales price is 60 cents for each dollar of value at time of his death. The family will also create an endowment fund of $1000 per acre sold which will be used for maintenance and planning. There should be no on-going appropriations for several years to come for the county. He notes that the quarry on site will be donated with no additional cost at end of useful life of quarry. He suggests it could be used as an education center for geology of the area and to remember how roads built. They also see community farms, both active and passive recreation usses of the land including playing fields and other other activities. The family will continue using the houses on site. If they decide to sell outside the family - they will give county 1st right of refusal to buy the buildings. He thinks it is a good public-private partnership. Knows its tough times, but doesn't think we should we stop looking ahead. He says they tried to spread out costs over period of years and minimize costs for the County.
Patricia and Lynette Anderson are registered in support as well.
QUESTIONS
Stoebig asks about the quarry and the reclamation plan? Bill says that the county will be responsible for reclamation plan that would need to be changed as the educational opportunity isn't allowed. He says they are working with the Park Division to change the reclamation plan.
Richmond asks how long they have been working on this and what adoption means tonight. Bill says they've been working on it for 2.5 years. Bill says the deal has evolved. Says he understands the political realism, would like it approved tonight, but its not war if its not. He would like to get it on another agenda as soon as possible. He says that the economic circumstances have already been taken into account and incorporated into the plan.
DISCUSSION
Hulsey - Thanks family, says walked the land and its beautiful, tried to put conserve back in conservative, but also asks what would Lyman do? Given current budget circumstances need to make sure it fits into total budget picture.
Hulsey moves to re-refer to finance committee on Monday night. Second by DeSchmidt. No discussion, passes on voice vote.
2. Res 284, 08-09 - Authorizing Employment Agreement for Director of Public Safety Communications Center (Adopt)
No discussion. Roll Call vote:
AYE: Schmidt, Solberg, Stubbs, Vedder, Veldran, Wheeler, Bayrd, deFelice, DeSmidt, Downing, Erickson, Hampton, Hendrick, Hulsey, Kostelic, Levin, Manning, Matano, Miles, O'Laughlin, Opitz, Richmond, Rusk, McDonell
NO: Wiganowski, Bruskewitz, Ferrell, Gau, Ripp, Salov, Schlicht
ABSENT: Vogel, Willet, Hesselbein, Jensen, Martz
[My understanding is that some of the conservatives, after all of this, felt like $120,000 was too much to being paying the new director. Wiggy has another excuse later about why he voted the way he did. If his excuse were true, he could have just made a motion to postpone.]
3. Res 296, 08-09 - Award of Contraact for Tenant Improvement 1st and 3rd Floor - CCB (Adopt Sub 1)
Hulsey out of room. Matano moves referral to Personnel and Finance, second by Hendrick. Hulsy back and says same reasons as with item 1 (Lyman Anderson Land).
Gau asks question for committee. Wants to make sure that the capital funds from 2010 are relieved with stimulus funds.
Hulsey outlines some possibilities such as with the clean water legacy fund where they might get state money. Also looking into energy conservation bonds. He says they are also looking for other solutions.
Veldran - Energy task force and looking to add something as a project - not sure what.
The motion passed unanimously on a voice vote.
At this point, it was a few minutes before 8:00.
J. RESOLUTIONS
1. Res 294, 08-09 - Approving Billboard Lease on County Land (Adopt)
Hendrick asked to be recorded as voting no.
No discussion, several audible "no"s, chair ruled it carries. [Seemed close to me, I'd have asked for a roll call, but I'm just like that. :) ]
2. Res 300, 08-09 - Urging Equitable Funding for Long Term Care (Adopt with Amendment)
See separate post (Sorry, I can't blog at work, too much other stuff to do, it will have to wait til after work or later this weekend. I had hoped to get it done, but I failed!).
At this point is was 8:40. Items 3 & 4 in this section were taken up together. See separate post (hopefully this morning yet) on this item.
3. RE 13, 09-10 - Updating Dane County Privacy Policy Concerning Access to County Services (No recommendation)
Chair McDonell reported that the committee has not reported and that item 3 is not properly before the County Board. He will let people registered on 3. talk on 4. instead if they want to.
Bruskewitz rises for a point of information. Asks why not properly before them. Then she gets confused, and realizes that she understands what is going on. AFter the confusion is settles she still talks and says "My point is this" . . . there was a resolution that was to be presented to night to access to social security numbers and with register of deeds this was referred to this meeting.
Miles says the committee he is on is working on it, that at the last meeting questions were raised and they asked register of deeds to answer questions and it is postponed at this time. Chair explains that he expects it back at the next meeting . . . if the committee acts on it. He says he doesn't really have any control over that.
4. Res 14, 09-10 - Creating the Dane County Immigration Task Force (No recommendation)
See separate post (still working on it!).
M. SUCH OTHER BUSINESS AS THE COUNTY BOARD IS AUTHORIZED TO CONDUCT BY LAW
Wiggy explains his vote on the 911 director. He says it would have been unanimous, but he hasn't ever met him. Would like to meet him and have him come to another meeting. Wants to let people know that there aren't any ill feelings. McDonell explains it was hard to get him here as he is still working at his old job.
Rusk says he met with 911 director last week talking about operability in our brand new system and that he went to Kansas City even though he wasn't even on payroll yet. Says he was impressed with the new director.
N. ADJOURN
Motion to adjourn - passes. It was about 10:20.
So, there you have it, most of my first county board blog. Feel free to contact me if you have any suggestions. I'm not sure that I will so thoroughly blog all meetings, this just had some items of interest. Sorry it was late this morning, too many other things going on!
Read more!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Council Recap - Banning Sales of Small Amounts of Alcohol (#41)
The final piece of the Common Council recap from Tuesday . . . banning liquor sold in small quantities.
First, here's what would be banned (at least I think so, there was version confusion, this says version 3, but you might want to check back here for new or future versions):
I missed whatever Tractenberg was paid to say by whoever paid him to say it. [I can ignore certain annoying lobbyists with reckless abandon now. Yay!]
Rosemary Lee speaks in support as a downtown resident who has seen a positive affect of the ordinance in the downtown area.
Lisa Subeck speaks in support of the ordinance as a wast side resident. Talks about beer cans with straws outside a local gas station and says kids are getting alcohol. Says we need to cure alcoholism through other means, and this is really about packaging. She says ease of packaging allows people to easily hang out at the park or bus stop and drink alcohol. She thinks getting these products out of her neighborhood will be helpful. Its not about pan handling for her. She did point out that typically she speaks at the other podium, but she was on the right tonight, not her usual place to speak from.
Bill White, representing the WI Grocers Association in opposition. He points out he is speaking from the left. Says they were told that his ordinance was to address specific problem with specific target but this ordinance is wide sweeping. It prevents people from drinking small amounts of alcohol. Its a broad response to minor problem. He says its not about street alcoholics but others. Thousands of people enjoy these products in small amounts, which is better than large amounts. He says that the process on this one was not good, not all the industries were consulted and would like to explore other options - they would like referral. He also is concerned that this is the first of series of issues coming forward and would like to know what the other items are. [Think they will try doing this again?] He wants to know if this ordinance will lead to results. He also points out that the ordinance around 2:00 in the afternoon is different than the version that they got around 5 or 5:30 that evening. So, there is some confusion about what version they are talking about. He reiterates that he would like to help come up with alternatives and he said, even if it does pass, he would like to work on an ongoing basis to resolve other issues as the arrive.
Casey (Trudge?) - Wi Distributors from Sun Prairie - in opposition. Applauds ALRC for trying to fix behavior by leveling the playing field. He's a member of DMI, GMCVB, Chamber and supports safe ride and taxi program. [Tim Bruer back in the chair, mayor leaves room] Thinks there are better alternatives to solve complex issue. Wants to know what measurements and goals are, what the economic impact will be, why the rush to get this done and what else is out there? He says banning the products will not cure the problem. He wonders why attacking the product or package not the persons creating problems. He points out that lower income people are being discriminated against. He says without goals and measurements, we'll just have the problem in two years. He says Green Bay is banning the people and this should be explored. He also wants to understand issue, effects and economic impact on the community. Wants it sent back to community.
Jim (Shuts?), Open Pantry. Opposition last time, wasn't a level playing field and industry didn't get to speak its voice. Now its a level playing field and had an opportunity to voice opinion, but others were left out. He consents to this and isn't changing that. Thinks others should be heard.
(Phil Reynolds?) - General Beer and Beverage Distributing, Fitchburg, Says he has 250 employees and most live in Madison. He says he runs a family owned business established in 1933 with repeal of prohibition. Prohibition didn't work then and it won't work this time. All this will do is have people buy more alcohol. Wants city to be safer. Says panhandling will increase because they need to raise more money to buy larger amounts of alcohol. He asks if we want to encourage purchase of more alcohol? And do we want to punish the entire population for the actions of a few. Thinks that they should consider the Green Bay ordinance and want to be part of the solution. He says that his company sells 36,000 cases of these products every year.
Steve Frank - Frank Beer Distributor and ?? - Middleton. Says the company is run by the 3rd generation of family with roots in Madison and doing this since prohibition. Says prohibition ended in 1933, 75 years ago, and it was a grand or noble experiment. Speaks against this poorly written public policy, doesn't address the behavior problems. He says he sells 36,000 cases of beer, 50,000 cases of wine or spirits that would be prohibited. He thinks that these packages and products have a broader base than you realize and it will not correct the behavior of 50 homeless alcoholics. If ALRC wants to do a good job, they would include the industry in the resolution. They want to find a common solution.
Mike Witenwieler - Wis Wine and Spirits Institute - also does work for Beer Distributors - in opposition. He brought props. [See photo here.] Tammy (the clerk) suggested passing it around, Clear says not to put it too close to Bruer. After settling does, he says he wants to focus on three reasons why this ordinance is bad. 1. He says there are more effective and direct ways to deal with problem which he identifies as public inebriation and chronic alcoholics. He points out that a half pint of Jack Daniels would be prohibited, but for a cheaper price they can still buy larger bottle of alcohol. Jack Daniels is $8.99 vs the cheaper larger liquor bottle at $6.99. He says this ordinance does not get at the problem. He says there is a better way to do it and urges the Council to look at the Green Bay ordinance. 2. He says this ordinance is limiting consumer choice. Most of these items already prohibited downtown, but still selling in other areas. He says the problems can be addressed through license conditions. And, I missed the 3rd point.
(Robert Buehler?) Open Pantry. He says Open Pantry tries to be good community leaders, talks about efforts in smoking. Says Jim Shuts from Open Pantry was supposed to work with Schumacher two years ago, they had informal meetings, all the parties tried to come up with a solution. He thinks this is the best efforts, and still support the ordinance, but has heard that many others have not been included in these efforts and asks for referral. Some of the folks are not here tonight. Other issues have come forward that he doesn't understand as they are not "in their zone", so there may be a need for more education.
Bruce Jones - doesn't want to speak. Same with Matt ??
Three registrants in opposition not wishing to speak.
QUESTIONS OF REGISTRANTS
Schumacher asks Subeck about her experience. She talks about prevention and intervention. Says this is the prevention end of things. Intervention could only be having more cops on every corner 24/7. Unless police state, can't have that kind of intervention. So this can work on prevention.
Compton asks Subeck about the straws and says its not funny. [I didn't realize anyone thought it was funny.] (Lisa notes aloud that a friend just texted her that she shouldn't wear prints on tv) Compton also asks how do the young people get the alcohol? What gets exchanged to get the alcohol? Subeck says neighbors have been asked and followed and harassed when they said no to buying alcohol for young people. Compton asks if they might engage in prostitution like in the drug world? Subeck says it might, but points out that they can offer additional money to get someone to buy it for them and points out that what is what happened when she was a kid. Compton notes she likes Lisa's blouse.
Palm asks Bill White if given what are other options? Bill says they should focus on 1% of people who are the problem. He points out the state statute that says that you can be allowed not to sell to people with convictions like in Green Bay. Can also go directly to the establishments and get voluntary compliance. He recommends a collaborative community building approach instead of top down. Plam clarifies that they can voluntarily not sell to "known inebriant". Palm asks why they are not doing that now. Bill doesn't quite answer and notes that ALRC hasn't seen this version that the council has. He says Open Pantry has worked with people on the current version and others were not involved and want to be involved in the solution. He asks what is loss to city to work on this issue further?
Schumacher talking to Bill White points out that the current version is modified from ALRC because they listened to the concerns of Bill's clients. Bill says the 2:00 version is different than 5:30 version and that they listened to some issues of some people.
Schumacher seeks clarifications from Bill that JD is less than half a pint. Bill asks to see the bottle and confirms it is 200 ml with a little coaching from the distributors in the audience. [I didn't get what Schumacher's point was.]
Compton asks Bill White about people not being heard. She points out many people in audience were at ALRC. Bill says that they thought it was an informational meeting to understand the ordinance, not to respond to concrete proposal and that they didn't understand that it would be acted on that night. Bill says a person more familiar with city hall might have realized otherwise and that why he is here now to represent them.
[At this point, the Mayor wanders back by me to assure me that I no longer need to be at these meetings. I laugh and its a pleasant exchange. But, maybe that's the answer to Kristin's question about why he's obsessed with the media?]
Compton asks how a liquor store would know not to sell to a "known inebriant"? Bill says that they should look at the program that works to find the answers. He's raising real issues and he thinks that it should be discussed focusing on behavior. He thinks we can id the chronic folks and deal with them. Yes, we need more social services and it has to be a holistic approach. [At this point, Bridget is taking pictures of Bruer on her iphone, I think that's where Dusty got his photo from. Is this why the mayor stepped down, to avoid that photo op?]
Alder Kerr asks Bill White what he's saying - he says that collaboration is one tool that hasn't been used. He shrugs. Julia asks why there is a statute that exists, why isn't it being used now? He's not sure that it isn't done in some cases. He says that there can be a systematic approach - and there has to be safeguards for abuse.
Julia asks how frequently the statute is used. He doesn't know. Bruer hands back the alcohol because, he says "the clerks office getting thirsty".
QUESTIONS OF/STATEMENTS FROM STAFF
Schumacher acknowledges the past work done on this issue and asks staff to speak. There are severe mic problems. She switches to a different seat to find a different microphone. [If you're counting, that's three mics down in one meeting - Bruer, Rummel and Plominski.]
Kathryn Plominski says she can't address everything. Says the ordinance is part of group of solutions in a larger project. She says they are working on a "known drunkard list" but they won't catch everyone, so they need to ban the products. She says she's getting calls from around the country that are looking to Madison to do this as well and see Madison as a leader on this topic. [Great, first the property tax exemption, and now this. What happened to our city being a leading on progressive forward thinking issues?]
Schumacher asks about the industry not being involved. How did she reach out? She says Joel Plant started this, in 2008 Verveer proposed license conditions in aldermanic districts, ALRC banned it in districts 4 and 8 and then held off. July 2008 there was a major distributor, 3 ind liquor stores, 2 attorneys, etc etc etc that came to a meeting. Then larger meeting later that Schumacher organized.
Schumacher follows up with Joel Plant. Joel says 2 years ago ALRC was talking about uniform conditions for Class A licenses. They agreed to postpone decision until more discussion. Some people were invited, but not everyone. First stated talking about banning products and packages - talked about best practices and other solutions - he talks about the three Es - education, enforcement and environment. He says availability and access is environment. He says employee training, supervision, restricting products size and packages are all considered. There was no one solution, there are a variety of things we need to do. We have taken a variety of steps. He said that Class A license holders agreed to work on best practices and that they were looking for voluntary compliance and it has worked to certain degree and that they had to place some conditions on licenses downtown. He says voluntary compliance is best way to affect change but that they don't have enough enforcement resources. He talks about the state law and that they have a list of 100 or more that are going to detox on a regular basis. He says one person went to detox 43 times in 10 months and they are working on the ban list. He says he heard alot of support for that tonight. He says this ordinance is an additional arrow in the quiver.
Palm asks Chief Wray about chronic alcoholics and police awareness of the issue and the voluntary compliance. Chief says that unless of an extreme nature, people can buy alcohol. Lt. Balles did a study and it illustrates the point that someone goes to detox 42 times (incompacitated) in less than 10 months. He says that is just the tip of the iceburg. He say now that unless a person is incapacitated, they can purchase alcohol.
Palm asks what discussion is within the police department. Chief talks about detox, ride alongs and doesn't really answer the question.
Palm asks why people won't just go to a bar instead and why they are targeting small quantities - what is perception about why these products are a concern? Chief says if someone is purchasing a single can cold, they can drink it now. Usually buy multiple cans in a row. Palm asks if sales clerks know who the people are? Chief says yes in most cases.
Rummel asks about single cans. She says no one is buying them now, right? Chief agrees. [They are banned now by license restrictions.] She asks how these conditions are enforced. What kind of resources do you spend on enforcing individual conditions? Chief says he tries to work with the establishments and then bans people from the area near State St. [He sort of missed the softball.] Rummel then asks if there are just 125 people driving this issue? Chief says if you ban only in the downtown area, you will start to see displacement, and so this is a city wide approach. She asks if there are records on these cases? She asks if they have identified where the displacement is happening? Chief says yes, parks outside of the state st core area and even further out but gives no specifics.
Mayor back in the chair.
Marsha asks if the displacement can be linked to certain providers? She asks if there are problem license holders? Chief says he doesn't think it is consistent, especially the further you get off the isthmus - and that individual providers are more of an issue on the isthmus.
Maniaci asks Plominski about the research she has done on the Green Bay ordinance and what else she is working on. Plominski says she looked at the Green Bay study, and talked with the police officer in charge of the list and she thinks it has been effective. She is working on criteria to get on and off the list and there is a small working group trying to come up with the answer now.
Julia moved for a recess, the Mayor made them vote because he thought some people wanted to keep going, but no one voted no. He told them to come back at 9:30. At this point I got my third or fourth offer to join the folks in the press row and I finally give in. That's an interesting new role . . . I guess a blogger is now part of the press as the press disintegrates.
Meeting resumes at 9:30, er, 9:35 er, 9:38 . . . by 9:40, roll call done, quorum present.
DISCUSSION
Schumacher thanks people. Says this is not a cure for all the problems, talks about the climate of alcohol problems in the community. He says that some people in the industry did not participate and he doesn't know why. Says he's happy to continue putting conditions on licenses as alders request them but this ordinance is an attempt to level the playing field and it makes it easier for police to know conditions throughout the city. He wants a 30 day referral and says that they will set up meetings with the industry and all alders will be invited [and publicly noticed?]
His motion to refer for 30 days gets many seconds. [So, you'd think that they'd vote and move on, but no . . . half the council had to say why they supported referral and it took over a half hour, even tho it was clear no one was against referral.]
Initially Bruer passes on speaking.
Eagon supports referral, talks about access and availability. Notes he has only been able to legally drink for 1.5 months. Thinks ban list is progress, but availability is the issue here. So supports referral to bring new stakeholder to the table
Rummel didn't see 2:00 version, didn't like exemption for grocery stores because it was not fair to the small mom and pop grocery stores. [An argument I hope Maniaci joins her in to help the Cork and Bottle on E Johson St.] Wonders what we are trying to do here? Especially because rot gut is cheaper in larger volumes than what is being banned. She asks that small retailers be included in the discussions. She also notes that people should remember the civil liberties issues involved with the banned list.
Compton is worried about people grabbing something and drinking it on the way home in the car and straws. Mad at industry because not involved, they know better and how and she thinks this is a problem and will support referral, but thinks that the industry owes the council more respect. Hears that we are going to bring the stakeholders to the table, but wants to know why the industry is the statkeholders? Judy says she’s let down and hopes that next time the industry has done their due diligence and will work with people who are trying to solve a problem. She says "If you’re not with us, then you are against us."
Clausius speaks because he was the one who pulled it off the agenda. He supports it, but has some concerns, specifically the prohibition of 200 mil and might be a problem in the downtown, but to have it in his district, that doesn’t seem fair, it’s a downtown problem. Was encouraged this afternoon, likes the grocery store exemption particularly for Woodmans and HyVee. He senses a new willingness to work with folks. He also mentions the new memo dated the 5th and says he will work with people on the list in the memo and ALRC and supports referral.
Verveer wants to encourage others to work with on another substitute. He says there is lots of activity in the last few weeks to come to compromise on how to deal with chronic street alcoholics and how they impact those of us who live work and play downtown. Supports referral, wants people to work with him and Schumacher on a compromise. He reminds the council that this is license renewal time and wants to encourage people to bring up issues with licenses in their districts and let him know if they have establishments that they want separated for consideration. He says now is the time to speak up – at May ALRC. To the industry, he says that they have been working for the last two weeks, need more of the meetings, thinks it would be wonderful to get to consensus and find a workable ordinance. So he wants to keep working on the issue. He talks about W Washington corridor and reads a sentence “Most agree that Kelly’s Mobile . . . has virtually stopped problems occurring in the area . . . .” He thinks that the license restrictions have been effective downtown. Has worked downtown, and its up to others to decide if it is needed beyond downtown, but he wants it solved before June.
Maniaci wants to work on the issue – has a neighboring district to Verveer and Eagon and is concerned about displacement but concerned about blanket ordinance that is far reaching. Wants to work on the issue.
Palm says it has been a fascinating discussion. He says this is a heavily regulated industry, and we have ability to make laws and we have the rights to establish conditions on the industry. Concerned that industry is not voluntarily working on this issue already. Green Bay has a list, he has the article and says its an interesting concept, but establishing levels of what is and is not appropriate will be hard. He is worried about a person who is a problem for a night. He thinks we should have minimum standards for retailers and clerks just like bartenders. Wants council to be more informed ahead of time and encouraged Schumacher to send communications before the council meeting. While we just see it pop up on the radar and compliments Schumacher to let people know.
[Snarky observation from someone besides me: The race is on for the next council leadership! Palm v Schumacher?]
Alder Kerr knows it’s a difficult issue and applauds peole working on the issue. She says the ban on high octane alcohol at Kelly Williamson has made a big impact on her district. Brittingham was a huge problem and the efforts there made a huge difference. She heard there were already tools in place and that is great, but then the industry should come back with a real sense of them working on it. Tell us how you’re going to use the tools that already exist. Also disappointed in the notion that the industry didn’t think that their participation was welcome and because she’s heard from people in her district from small retailers. She hopes they will now come to the table and work with us on it.
Alder Clear – appreciates leadership and realizes that the votes are probably there, and blah blah blah [I think I was getting tired. My fault, not his.]
Alder Compton – wonders if police department should be more involved on enforcement by police issue.
Alder Bruer – godfather reference, pandora’s box, history, [I’m losing it . . . and again, don’t really have to listen . . .] says industry on Park street stepped up to the plate, liquor license is a privilege not a right, limiting cheap liquor and booze helped in his neighborhood – so encourages solutions – staying out of liquor issues – says to industry if you’re smart you’ll participate in the discussions, the votes are here, but trust me when I tell you this, you need to come together, doesn’t like gov’t regulation and boarders on being a libertarian, so I would, in earnest, some of you will have to feel the pain –[ ok, I can’t do this, he doesn’t complete his sentences . . .] struggling neighborhoods, you need to be part of the solution or you are part of the problem, share the pain and responsibility, applauds . . .problem been around . . .this body will legislate . . . [ok - I was getting tired of listening to people talk about referral, but not only does he not speak in complete sentences, it seems that he doens't complete his thoughts either before he rambles on to the next subject. ]
10:12 referred . . .
Read more!
First, here's what would be banned (at least I think so, there was version confusion, this says version 3, but you might want to check back here for new or future versions):
(a) No retailer licensed under this Chapter shall be permitted to sell, dispense or give away fermented malt beverages in the original container in amounts less than the amount contained in a six pack of bottles or cans, for consumption off the licensed premises. This prohibition shall not apply to the sale of microbrewery fermented malt beverages or to imported malt beverages.PUBLIC TESTIMONY
1. Definitions.
Imported Malt Beverages. A fermented malt beverage that is manufactured and bottled outside the United States of America or its territories.
Microbrewery. A brewer where not more than one hundred fifty thousand (150,000) barrels of fermented malt beverages are manufactured in a calendar year by the permittee’s brewery group.
(b) No retailer licensed under this Chapter shall be permitted to sell, dispense or give away intoxicating liquor in the original container in amounts less than two hundred (200) milliliters in volume, for consumption off the licensed premises.
(c) No retailer licensed under this Chapter shall be permitted to sell, dispense or give away wine in the original container with an alcohol content of more than 15% alcohol by volume, where spirits have been added to the wine that have not been produced from the same fruit as the wine, for consumption off the licensed premises. This prohibition shall not apply to vermouth, port, sherry, and wine sealed with a cork and aged two years or more, and wine with more than 14 percent alcohol because of natural fermentation.
I missed whatever Tractenberg was paid to say by whoever paid him to say it. [I can ignore certain annoying lobbyists with reckless abandon now. Yay!]
Rosemary Lee speaks in support as a downtown resident who has seen a positive affect of the ordinance in the downtown area.
Lisa Subeck speaks in support of the ordinance as a wast side resident. Talks about beer cans with straws outside a local gas station and says kids are getting alcohol. Says we need to cure alcoholism through other means, and this is really about packaging. She says ease of packaging allows people to easily hang out at the park or bus stop and drink alcohol. She thinks getting these products out of her neighborhood will be helpful. Its not about pan handling for her. She did point out that typically she speaks at the other podium, but she was on the right tonight, not her usual place to speak from.
Bill White, representing the WI Grocers Association in opposition. He points out he is speaking from the left. Says they were told that his ordinance was to address specific problem with specific target but this ordinance is wide sweeping. It prevents people from drinking small amounts of alcohol. Its a broad response to minor problem. He says its not about street alcoholics but others. Thousands of people enjoy these products in small amounts, which is better than large amounts. He says that the process on this one was not good, not all the industries were consulted and would like to explore other options - they would like referral. He also is concerned that this is the first of series of issues coming forward and would like to know what the other items are. [Think they will try doing this again?] He wants to know if this ordinance will lead to results. He also points out that the ordinance around 2:00 in the afternoon is different than the version that they got around 5 or 5:30 that evening. So, there is some confusion about what version they are talking about. He reiterates that he would like to help come up with alternatives and he said, even if it does pass, he would like to work on an ongoing basis to resolve other issues as the arrive.
Casey (Trudge?) - Wi Distributors from Sun Prairie - in opposition. Applauds ALRC for trying to fix behavior by leveling the playing field. He's a member of DMI, GMCVB, Chamber and supports safe ride and taxi program. [Tim Bruer back in the chair, mayor leaves room] Thinks there are better alternatives to solve complex issue. Wants to know what measurements and goals are, what the economic impact will be, why the rush to get this done and what else is out there? He says banning the products will not cure the problem. He wonders why attacking the product or package not the persons creating problems. He points out that lower income people are being discriminated against. He says without goals and measurements, we'll just have the problem in two years. He says Green Bay is banning the people and this should be explored. He also wants to understand issue, effects and economic impact on the community. Wants it sent back to community.
Jim (Shuts?), Open Pantry. Opposition last time, wasn't a level playing field and industry didn't get to speak its voice. Now its a level playing field and had an opportunity to voice opinion, but others were left out. He consents to this and isn't changing that. Thinks others should be heard.
(Phil Reynolds?) - General Beer and Beverage Distributing, Fitchburg, Says he has 250 employees and most live in Madison. He says he runs a family owned business established in 1933 with repeal of prohibition. Prohibition didn't work then and it won't work this time. All this will do is have people buy more alcohol. Wants city to be safer. Says panhandling will increase because they need to raise more money to buy larger amounts of alcohol. He asks if we want to encourage purchase of more alcohol? And do we want to punish the entire population for the actions of a few. Thinks that they should consider the Green Bay ordinance and want to be part of the solution. He says that his company sells 36,000 cases of these products every year.
Steve Frank - Frank Beer Distributor and ?? - Middleton. Says the company is run by the 3rd generation of family with roots in Madison and doing this since prohibition. Says prohibition ended in 1933, 75 years ago, and it was a grand or noble experiment. Speaks against this poorly written public policy, doesn't address the behavior problems. He says he sells 36,000 cases of beer, 50,000 cases of wine or spirits that would be prohibited. He thinks that these packages and products have a broader base than you realize and it will not correct the behavior of 50 homeless alcoholics. If ALRC wants to do a good job, they would include the industry in the resolution. They want to find a common solution.
Mike Witenwieler - Wis Wine and Spirits Institute - also does work for Beer Distributors - in opposition. He brought props. [See photo here.] Tammy (the clerk) suggested passing it around, Clear says not to put it too close to Bruer. After settling does, he says he wants to focus on three reasons why this ordinance is bad. 1. He says there are more effective and direct ways to deal with problem which he identifies as public inebriation and chronic alcoholics. He points out that a half pint of Jack Daniels would be prohibited, but for a cheaper price they can still buy larger bottle of alcohol. Jack Daniels is $8.99 vs the cheaper larger liquor bottle at $6.99. He says this ordinance does not get at the problem. He says there is a better way to do it and urges the Council to look at the Green Bay ordinance. 2. He says this ordinance is limiting consumer choice. Most of these items already prohibited downtown, but still selling in other areas. He says the problems can be addressed through license conditions. And, I missed the 3rd point.
(Robert Buehler?) Open Pantry. He says Open Pantry tries to be good community leaders, talks about efforts in smoking. Says Jim Shuts from Open Pantry was supposed to work with Schumacher two years ago, they had informal meetings, all the parties tried to come up with a solution. He thinks this is the best efforts, and still support the ordinance, but has heard that many others have not been included in these efforts and asks for referral. Some of the folks are not here tonight. Other issues have come forward that he doesn't understand as they are not "in their zone", so there may be a need for more education.
Bruce Jones - doesn't want to speak. Same with Matt ??
Three registrants in opposition not wishing to speak.
QUESTIONS OF REGISTRANTS
Schumacher asks Subeck about her experience. She talks about prevention and intervention. Says this is the prevention end of things. Intervention could only be having more cops on every corner 24/7. Unless police state, can't have that kind of intervention. So this can work on prevention.
Compton asks Subeck about the straws and says its not funny. [I didn't realize anyone thought it was funny.] (Lisa notes aloud that a friend just texted her that she shouldn't wear prints on tv) Compton also asks how do the young people get the alcohol? What gets exchanged to get the alcohol? Subeck says neighbors have been asked and followed and harassed when they said no to buying alcohol for young people. Compton asks if they might engage in prostitution like in the drug world? Subeck says it might, but points out that they can offer additional money to get someone to buy it for them and points out that what is what happened when she was a kid. Compton notes she likes Lisa's blouse.
Palm asks Bill White if given what are other options? Bill says they should focus on 1% of people who are the problem. He points out the state statute that says that you can be allowed not to sell to people with convictions like in Green Bay. Can also go directly to the establishments and get voluntary compliance. He recommends a collaborative community building approach instead of top down. Plam clarifies that they can voluntarily not sell to "known inebriant". Palm asks why they are not doing that now. Bill doesn't quite answer and notes that ALRC hasn't seen this version that the council has. He says Open Pantry has worked with people on the current version and others were not involved and want to be involved in the solution. He asks what is loss to city to work on this issue further?
Schumacher talking to Bill White points out that the current version is modified from ALRC because they listened to the concerns of Bill's clients. Bill says the 2:00 version is different than 5:30 version and that they listened to some issues of some people.
Schumacher seeks clarifications from Bill that JD is less than half a pint. Bill asks to see the bottle and confirms it is 200 ml with a little coaching from the distributors in the audience. [I didn't get what Schumacher's point was.]
Compton asks Bill White about people not being heard. She points out many people in audience were at ALRC. Bill says that they thought it was an informational meeting to understand the ordinance, not to respond to concrete proposal and that they didn't understand that it would be acted on that night. Bill says a person more familiar with city hall might have realized otherwise and that why he is here now to represent them.
[At this point, the Mayor wanders back by me to assure me that I no longer need to be at these meetings. I laugh and its a pleasant exchange. But, maybe that's the answer to Kristin's question about why he's obsessed with the media?]
Compton asks how a liquor store would know not to sell to a "known inebriant"? Bill says that they should look at the program that works to find the answers. He's raising real issues and he thinks that it should be discussed focusing on behavior. He thinks we can id the chronic folks and deal with them. Yes, we need more social services and it has to be a holistic approach. [At this point, Bridget is taking pictures of Bruer on her iphone, I think that's where Dusty got his photo from. Is this why the mayor stepped down, to avoid that photo op?]
Alder Kerr asks Bill White what he's saying - he says that collaboration is one tool that hasn't been used. He shrugs. Julia asks why there is a statute that exists, why isn't it being used now? He's not sure that it isn't done in some cases. He says that there can be a systematic approach - and there has to be safeguards for abuse.
Julia asks how frequently the statute is used. He doesn't know. Bruer hands back the alcohol because, he says "the clerks office getting thirsty".
QUESTIONS OF/STATEMENTS FROM STAFF
Schumacher acknowledges the past work done on this issue and asks staff to speak. There are severe mic problems. She switches to a different seat to find a different microphone. [If you're counting, that's three mics down in one meeting - Bruer, Rummel and Plominski.]
Kathryn Plominski says she can't address everything. Says the ordinance is part of group of solutions in a larger project. She says they are working on a "known drunkard list" but they won't catch everyone, so they need to ban the products. She says she's getting calls from around the country that are looking to Madison to do this as well and see Madison as a leader on this topic. [Great, first the property tax exemption, and now this. What happened to our city being a leading on progressive forward thinking issues?]
Schumacher asks about the industry not being involved. How did she reach out? She says Joel Plant started this, in 2008 Verveer proposed license conditions in aldermanic districts, ALRC banned it in districts 4 and 8 and then held off. July 2008 there was a major distributor, 3 ind liquor stores, 2 attorneys, etc etc etc that came to a meeting. Then larger meeting later that Schumacher organized.
Schumacher follows up with Joel Plant. Joel says 2 years ago ALRC was talking about uniform conditions for Class A licenses. They agreed to postpone decision until more discussion. Some people were invited, but not everyone. First stated talking about banning products and packages - talked about best practices and other solutions - he talks about the three Es - education, enforcement and environment. He says availability and access is environment. He says employee training, supervision, restricting products size and packages are all considered. There was no one solution, there are a variety of things we need to do. We have taken a variety of steps. He said that Class A license holders agreed to work on best practices and that they were looking for voluntary compliance and it has worked to certain degree and that they had to place some conditions on licenses downtown. He says voluntary compliance is best way to affect change but that they don't have enough enforcement resources. He talks about the state law and that they have a list of 100 or more that are going to detox on a regular basis. He says one person went to detox 43 times in 10 months and they are working on the ban list. He says he heard alot of support for that tonight. He says this ordinance is an additional arrow in the quiver.
Palm asks Chief Wray about chronic alcoholics and police awareness of the issue and the voluntary compliance. Chief says that unless of an extreme nature, people can buy alcohol. Lt. Balles did a study and it illustrates the point that someone goes to detox 42 times (incompacitated) in less than 10 months. He says that is just the tip of the iceburg. He say now that unless a person is incapacitated, they can purchase alcohol.
Palm asks what discussion is within the police department. Chief talks about detox, ride alongs and doesn't really answer the question.
Palm asks why people won't just go to a bar instead and why they are targeting small quantities - what is perception about why these products are a concern? Chief says if someone is purchasing a single can cold, they can drink it now. Usually buy multiple cans in a row. Palm asks if sales clerks know who the people are? Chief says yes in most cases.
Rummel asks about single cans. She says no one is buying them now, right? Chief agrees. [They are banned now by license restrictions.] She asks how these conditions are enforced. What kind of resources do you spend on enforcing individual conditions? Chief says he tries to work with the establishments and then bans people from the area near State St. [He sort of missed the softball.] Rummel then asks if there are just 125 people driving this issue? Chief says if you ban only in the downtown area, you will start to see displacement, and so this is a city wide approach. She asks if there are records on these cases? She asks if they have identified where the displacement is happening? Chief says yes, parks outside of the state st core area and even further out but gives no specifics.
Mayor back in the chair.
Marsha asks if the displacement can be linked to certain providers? She asks if there are problem license holders? Chief says he doesn't think it is consistent, especially the further you get off the isthmus - and that individual providers are more of an issue on the isthmus.
Maniaci asks Plominski about the research she has done on the Green Bay ordinance and what else she is working on. Plominski says she looked at the Green Bay study, and talked with the police officer in charge of the list and she thinks it has been effective. She is working on criteria to get on and off the list and there is a small working group trying to come up with the answer now.
Julia moved for a recess, the Mayor made them vote because he thought some people wanted to keep going, but no one voted no. He told them to come back at 9:30. At this point I got my third or fourth offer to join the folks in the press row and I finally give in. That's an interesting new role . . . I guess a blogger is now part of the press as the press disintegrates.
Meeting resumes at 9:30, er, 9:35 er, 9:38 . . . by 9:40, roll call done, quorum present.
DISCUSSION
Schumacher thanks people. Says this is not a cure for all the problems, talks about the climate of alcohol problems in the community. He says that some people in the industry did not participate and he doesn't know why. Says he's happy to continue putting conditions on licenses as alders request them but this ordinance is an attempt to level the playing field and it makes it easier for police to know conditions throughout the city. He wants a 30 day referral and says that they will set up meetings with the industry and all alders will be invited [and publicly noticed?]
His motion to refer for 30 days gets many seconds. [So, you'd think that they'd vote and move on, but no . . . half the council had to say why they supported referral and it took over a half hour, even tho it was clear no one was against referral.]
Initially Bruer passes on speaking.
Eagon supports referral, talks about access and availability. Notes he has only been able to legally drink for 1.5 months. Thinks ban list is progress, but availability is the issue here. So supports referral to bring new stakeholder to the table
Rummel didn't see 2:00 version, didn't like exemption for grocery stores because it was not fair to the small mom and pop grocery stores. [An argument I hope Maniaci joins her in to help the Cork and Bottle on E Johson St.] Wonders what we are trying to do here? Especially because rot gut is cheaper in larger volumes than what is being banned. She asks that small retailers be included in the discussions. She also notes that people should remember the civil liberties issues involved with the banned list.
Compton is worried about people grabbing something and drinking it on the way home in the car and straws. Mad at industry because not involved, they know better and how and she thinks this is a problem and will support referral, but thinks that the industry owes the council more respect. Hears that we are going to bring the stakeholders to the table, but wants to know why the industry is the statkeholders? Judy says she’s let down and hopes that next time the industry has done their due diligence and will work with people who are trying to solve a problem. She says "If you’re not with us, then you are against us."
Clausius speaks because he was the one who pulled it off the agenda. He supports it, but has some concerns, specifically the prohibition of 200 mil and might be a problem in the downtown, but to have it in his district, that doesn’t seem fair, it’s a downtown problem. Was encouraged this afternoon, likes the grocery store exemption particularly for Woodmans and HyVee. He senses a new willingness to work with folks. He also mentions the new memo dated the 5th and says he will work with people on the list in the memo and ALRC and supports referral.
Verveer wants to encourage others to work with on another substitute. He says there is lots of activity in the last few weeks to come to compromise on how to deal with chronic street alcoholics and how they impact those of us who live work and play downtown. Supports referral, wants people to work with him and Schumacher on a compromise. He reminds the council that this is license renewal time and wants to encourage people to bring up issues with licenses in their districts and let him know if they have establishments that they want separated for consideration. He says now is the time to speak up – at May ALRC. To the industry, he says that they have been working for the last two weeks, need more of the meetings, thinks it would be wonderful to get to consensus and find a workable ordinance. So he wants to keep working on the issue. He talks about W Washington corridor and reads a sentence “Most agree that Kelly’s Mobile . . . has virtually stopped problems occurring in the area . . . .” He thinks that the license restrictions have been effective downtown. Has worked downtown, and its up to others to decide if it is needed beyond downtown, but he wants it solved before June.
Maniaci wants to work on the issue – has a neighboring district to Verveer and Eagon and is concerned about displacement but concerned about blanket ordinance that is far reaching. Wants to work on the issue.
Palm says it has been a fascinating discussion. He says this is a heavily regulated industry, and we have ability to make laws and we have the rights to establish conditions on the industry. Concerned that industry is not voluntarily working on this issue already. Green Bay has a list, he has the article and says its an interesting concept, but establishing levels of what is and is not appropriate will be hard. He is worried about a person who is a problem for a night. He thinks we should have minimum standards for retailers and clerks just like bartenders. Wants council to be more informed ahead of time and encouraged Schumacher to send communications before the council meeting. While we just see it pop up on the radar and compliments Schumacher to let people know.
[Snarky observation from someone besides me: The race is on for the next council leadership! Palm v Schumacher?]
Alder Kerr knows it’s a difficult issue and applauds peole working on the issue. She says the ban on high octane alcohol at Kelly Williamson has made a big impact on her district. Brittingham was a huge problem and the efforts there made a huge difference. She heard there were already tools in place and that is great, but then the industry should come back with a real sense of them working on it. Tell us how you’re going to use the tools that already exist. Also disappointed in the notion that the industry didn’t think that their participation was welcome and because she’s heard from people in her district from small retailers. She hopes they will now come to the table and work with us on it.
Alder Clear – appreciates leadership and realizes that the votes are probably there, and blah blah blah [I think I was getting tired. My fault, not his.]
Alder Compton – wonders if police department should be more involved on enforcement by police issue.
Alder Bruer – godfather reference, pandora’s box, history, [I’m losing it . . . and again, don’t really have to listen . . .] says industry on Park street stepped up to the plate, liquor license is a privilege not a right, limiting cheap liquor and booze helped in his neighborhood – so encourages solutions – staying out of liquor issues – says to industry if you’re smart you’ll participate in the discussions, the votes are here, but trust me when I tell you this, you need to come together, doesn’t like gov’t regulation and boarders on being a libertarian, so I would, in earnest, some of you will have to feel the pain –[ ok, I can’t do this, he doesn’t complete his sentences . . .] struggling neighborhoods, you need to be part of the solution or you are part of the problem, share the pain and responsibility, applauds . . .problem been around . . .this body will legislate . . . [ok - I was getting tired of listening to people talk about referral, but not only does he not speak in complete sentences, it seems that he doens't complete his thoughts either before he rambles on to the next subject. ]
10:12 referred . . .
Read more!
Progress for Undocumented workers, Action in Dane County
Earlier this week, there was good news for undocumented workers, and tonight at the county board, there could be more good news!
This message was sent to a few listserves earlier this week:
It sounds like a good sensible policy.
Tonight, at the county board, they will also be discussing immigration issues. Help Defend Immigrant Rights in Dane County!
Read more!
This message was sent to a few listserves earlier this week:
The Supreme Court has ruled against the prosecution with respect to charging an undocumented worker with identity theft through a federal statute which was created by congress for the purpose of prosecuting fraudulent type individuals who knew who their victim was. All across this nation, prosecutors have obtained guilty pleas (improperly) by using a statute in an inappropriate fashion.
It sounds like a good sensible policy.
Tonight, at the county board, they will also be discussing immigration issues. Help Defend Immigrant Rights in Dane County!
Join in packing the County Board Meeting to Support Ending Local Deportations
Date: Tomorrow, Thursday, May 7th
Time: 6:15
Place: Library Mall, then up to the City/County building at 6:30 (210 Martin Luther King, Jr., Blvd.) Those who are busy until 7 should go directly to the city-county building.
Dane County Sheriff Dave Mahoney is going above and beyond the law by reporting the names of undocumented immigrants held in Dane County Jail to federal authorities. This practice has created a culture of fear and mistrust of law enforcement in the immigrant community, causing actual crimes to go unreported. Despite repeated efforts by some on the County Board to stop this practice, including the proposed budget amendment last November, Sheriff Mahoney continues to engage in it. On Thursday students and community members will join together to protest the Sheriff's policies and to support an amendment to the County's 2004 sanctuary resolution which will specifically prohibit the type of federal cooperation he is engaging in.
Read more!
Services for Homeless and Jobless
Here's some help . . . but what is really needed is more jobs in the community!
From Employment and Training Association
Here's the details of what they can help with:
Read more!
From Employment and Training Association
Receive employment services (resumes, cover letters, applications, job leads, etc.) and referrals to Dane County Services (FSET, W-2, DVR, etc.)
Meets every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at 2:00 pm in Room #4 at the Dane County Job Center
Contact: Karen Potnek, 1819 Aberg Avenue, Madison, WI 53704
Phone: 608-242-4556, Fax: 608-242-4553, E-mail: karenp@eata.org
Here's the details of what they can help with:
Homeless Employment Support Program Activities
The goal of this program is to provide meaningful individualized employment search assistance along with support and advocacy in accessing community resources that complements the services already being provided by Case Managers serving Dane County’s homeless single adults and families.
Services provided by the Homeless Employment Support Case Manager may include, but are not limited to:
1) A Thorough Employment Readiness Assessment
a) Evaluation of an individual’s work related skills and experience
b) Identification of barriers affecting an individual’s ability to find and maintain employment.
c) An assessment of an individual’s work related training activities that includes potential training needed to meet employment goals
2) The Development of an Employment Action Plan
a) Outline of steps needed to overcome barriers
b) Identification of resources and training opportunities available to meet employment goals (reviewed with Case Manager)
3) Access to Job Seeking Resources
a) Job Leads – weekly listings and direct referrals to employers that are currently hiring
b) Referrals to employer recruitment events including Job Fairs, on-site interviews (at employer location or at the Job Center), and community based employer events
c) Referrals for State, County and City testing opportunities
d) Assistance with internet applications and researching employers
e) Local job market information
4) Guidance and Assistance with the Completion of Applications, Developing and Updating Resumes, Cover Letters, Thank You Letters.
5) Referrals to Employer Based Training Activities Taking Place at the Dane County Job Center, YWCA Annex, Urban League, MATC, etc. Including Referrals to Workforce Investment Act Funded Training Programs.
6) Individualized or Group Counseling Sessions Addressing Job Seeking and Job Retention Skills. Topics may Include:
Completing a Strong Application Resume Formats
Conducting Follow-Up Phone Calls Interviewing Skills
Dressing and Grooming for Employment Cover Letters
Personal Responsibility in the Workplace
Where to Look for Work Based on your Conviction Record
Troubleshooting Common Problems that Affect Absenteeism/ Tardiness (retention)
7) Information, Referrals and Assistance with Accessing and Applying for Community Resources as Appropriate (Medical Assistance, FoodShare, Child Care, W2, Social Security, Housing Assistance, Emergency Assistance, DVR, Older Worker Programs, referrals to Mental Health and AODA Treatment Programming, etc..)
8) Assistance with Accessing Job Center Resources. This Includes Advocacy Work in Relation to Program Eligibility and Compliance, Documentation and Benefits.
Read more!
Training for Landlords on New Smoke Detector Ordinance
Landlords must have complied with the new smoke detector ordinances by August 15th, and there is training to help landlords make sure they are in compliance!
Read more!
Madison Smoke Alarm Orientation Programs Offered May 14
by Madison Fire Department & Building Inspection Department
Madison area rental property owners are invited and encouraged to attend a training session relative to the type of smoke alarms required and permitted by the new smoke alarm ordinance for the City of Madison. The training will assist you and your staff in purchasing and installing the correct alarms. City staff will be available to answer your specific questions. Please consider attending. Three identical sessions will be offered:
Thursday, May 14, 2009
9:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M.
Overture Center
201 State Street
Promenade Hall
For rental housing, the alarms must be installed by August 15, 2009.
If you have not purchased your alarms or have purchased them and are unsure about installation requirements, this brief program is your opportunity to ask questions. We encourage you to make time to attend one of the three offerings on May 14th.
If you have questions about the program or the ordinance, you are welcome to call the AASCW offices at 826-6226.
Read more!
Free Recycling of Electronics!!
Dane County Residents can recycle your electronics for free this Saturday!
Read more!
DANE COUNTY TV AND ELECTRONICS RECYCLING DROP OFF
SATURDAY , MAY 9TH 2009
9 A.M. TO 2 PM.
ALLIANT ENERGY CENTER - OLIN STREET ENTRANCE (1919 ALLIANT ENERGY CENTER WAY)
Electronic materials collected at the event will include all brands of televisions sets (all sizes), computer monitors, personal computers, printers, scanners, fax machines, calculators, cellphones, keyboards, mice, microwaves, vacuums, toasters, radios, stereos, telephones, DVD players, CD players and VCRs.
No air conditioners, dehumidifiers or large appliances.
THIS EVENT IS FOR RESIDENTS OF "DANE COUNTY ONLY"
NO BUSINESSES!
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT JOHN WELCH AT 267-8815
THIS EVENT IS ONE TIME *FREE* DROP OFF
Read more!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Common Council Recap - The Basics
A report, from citizen reporter Konkel! ;)
GETTING STARTED
The meeting started around 6:38, Mayor was in the chair since before 6:30, but it still took nearly 10 minutes to get started. I don't know why they can't start on time, everyone seemed to be in the room, its just that everyone was busy chatting. I'm not sure if that bothers anyone, but it used to drive me a little crazy.
Cnare was absent, which was notified in advance. Palm also absent, which was not anticipated. Palm did arrive later in the meeting.
The meeting started with mic problems, as usual. Bruer had to use Kerr's microphone, to the vocally expressed displeasure of Alder Kerr. Bruer makes the motion to suspend the rules allowing them to take things out of order and introduce items from the floor, no objection, as usual.
HONORING RESOLUTIONS
Item 1 - referred to May 19 when Memorial Spartan Boys Swimming and Diving team can be there.
Item 2 - adoption of resolution declaring May 9th Broom St. Theatre Day - only Julia Kerr stands. Like many good organizations, they've been around since 1969 and proud to be serving Madison and intend to stay around for years to come.
Item 3 - adoption of a resolution honoring the selfless heroism of Lt. Gerald Stull - over 50 years ago he flew plane into Lake Monona to avoid running into a Madison neighborhood, and the neighborhood is placing a memorial in a neighborhood park with a ceremony in Hudson Park (Lakeland & Miller Ave) Saturday at 11:00. Lt. Stull's family will be in attendance.
Item 4 - adoption of a resolution that congratulates Madison Memorial Boys Basketball Team - State Division 1 Title - Coach spoke with his team behind him. He said it is great to win in their home town and he hopes the state tourney stays here in Madison.
Item 5 - adoption of a resolution recognizing Public Service Recognition Week May 4 - 10. The plaque was accepted by Brad Wirtz of Human Resources which was probably a little insulting to some city staff. He rushed through reading a written speech with little enthusiasm or sincerity. I couldn't tell if he was a bad public speaker, or just annoyed to be there. There will be a ceremony today at noon on steps of . . . either City Hall or the City-County Building . . . I wasn't quite clear.
Item 6 - Cinco de Mayo resolution. There was no one to accept it but Alder Bidar-Sielaff spoke to explain no one there to accept resolution because they were celebrating the day elsewhere.
It was nearly 7:55 by the time they were done with all the honoring resolutions. Its the most I have seen in a while.
Item 7 - A petition from Java Cat regarding the widening of Monona Drive was referred to Board of Public Works.
EARLY PUBLIC COMMENT
Early Public Comment - Duane Johnson on item 16 representing Ikonica on Demming Way. Registered to speak - no questions from the council.
CONSENT AGENDA
The consent agenda -
23 is the citizen appointments introduced tonight and it was referred to 5/19 council meeting
48 a bartender's license for a man who works at the Edgewater was referred back to ALRC
163 was the Aldermanic appointments that Alder Pham-Remmele was threatening to quit over, but it was placed on file.
20 (appointments to committees of people not living in Madison), 54 (Resources for Tuberculosis), 55 (Amending Public Health Budget to carry over funds form 2008) & 62 (Annual Budget adjustments, including spending over $100,000 from Contingent Reserve) - all were unanimously approved even tho they were super majority items. Items can be looked up on the agenda.
WILL ALDER THUY PHAM-REMMELE QUIT IN DISGUST OVER MAYORAL ALDERMANIC APPOINTMENTS
No. The item was placed on file. Alder Pham-Remmele speaks, but asks what it means to place 163 on file and thanks Alder Bruer for requesting this to be placed on the agenda, but says it is not necessary. So, the Common Council did not need to face the dilemma.
Items separated for discussion were:
20 - Citizen Appointments
24 - Property Tax Exemption
41 - Banning sales of small quantities of liquor
60 - Buy American with Stimulus Money
102 - Curfew
SWINE FLU, ER . . . H1N1 Virus
Special Order of Business - update on swine flu from Doctor Schlenker - item #164 was moved out of order - they didn't vote on it or make a motion. Schlenker updated the council that while the flu is wide spread it is not as severe as originally thought. He said that there were no deaths in United States (?) but there have been 30 hospitalizations however they have been brief. He said there are 400 cases nationally in most states. In Wisconsin there are 119 cases in 10 counties. As of last night, we have our first probable case here in Dane County where an infant who had visited Mexico was ill. He was tested and they don't know for sure because the test was inconclusive. The boy and his family are isolated and at home and being monitored by public health nurses, and the boy has recovered at this point. He has very caring and capable parents. He has not attended any kind of school in last few months so no concern there either. The other 56 specimens taken in Dane County are 48 that have been negative, 7 still pending, but likely to have more cases in coming days. He reiterates it is a relatively mild illness - no worse than seasonal influenza. He also said it was unlikely that there would be any school closures, the Centers for Disease control has new guidelines do not recommend school closures at this time. Instead they recommend that schools should ID people who are sick and make them go home.
Pham-Remmele asks if there are special precautions for older people. Schlenker says to wash hands frequently, cover mouth when cough or sneeze, if sick stay home, if elderly or other physical disability be in touch with your doctor but unless develop respiratory problems you do not need to seek medical attention. She asks about if people should be wearing masks. Schlenker says no, not necessary or very effective.
Mayor asks if the flu is expected to return in the fall. Schlenker says yes, and that is a concern now that it has proven to be very effectively transmitted between humans it would only take a mutation or two to ratchet up the seriousness but he hopes to have a vaccine for the fall.
PUBLIC HEARINGS - ITEMS 8 - 19.
- DEMOLITION DEFINITION
Item 8 Definition of Demolition - no registrants. I was slightly surprised no one showed up to express concerns and that there were no amendments. I believe that the motion was on the original not the alternate.
Alder Rhodes-Conway points out that there is an alternate and asked Brad Murphy to explain the ordinance. He said current ordinance doesn't have a definition of demolition and staff has had to use judgement about if large scale remodeling warranted demolition review. This ordinance provides an objective definition - and if 50% of the wall area or the front wall are being removed it would require plan commission approval.
Rhodes-Conway asks what happens if it is less than 50% of the wall area. Murphy explained that they would need staff review and approval of building plans against building code.
Rhodes-Conway asks about historic buildings. He says all projects that are landmarked or in historic district would need to be approved by Landmarks.
Rhodes-Conway asks about "demolition by neglect". Murphy says that was topic of discussion when demolition ordinance was revised a year ago.
There was a roll call, but it was unanimous that all 19 people in attendance (Cnare absent) voted in support. The Mayor makes a snide "thanks" to alder Rhodes-Conway for requesting roll call.
- MERITER
Item 9 - Steve Jacobson spoke in opposition, lives in Triangle, Brittingham Place, sent an email to the council that he said they all have (but they don't). He opposes 11 story building because it will have a negative impact on his community. He would like it referred until consideration given to the neighbors - 300 low income, elderly and disabled residents plus Bayview. He thinks that they should review the parking and do a cost benefit analysis. He thinks neighborhood process (3 meetings) was ok but says there is still room for discussion about what conclusions should be drawn from the meetings and how the input was used. There were three neighborhood associations involved. One Neighborhood Association said there wasn't time to comment on the project and suggests they want information on what a one story bungalow will look like next to a 164 foot building. Another neighborhood association in the area also did not vote on the project. He knocked on doors today and people were concerned about tv reception and other issues. He also said that everyone he talked to facing 11 story building opposes the project.
Joe Stark - also from Braxton Place was in opposition but did not speak.
3 registrations in support, all representing Meriter Hospital
Alder Kerr said that she sent the email to allalders@cityofmadison.com at the beginning of meeting so if they have their computers they can read the email the speaker was referring to. She thinks the process was good and excited about Meriter making an investment in the corridor. Some of Mr. Jacobson's concerns were addressed in plan commission motion last night. The item was approved with additional conditions, not available to the public but on the desks of the alders. King abstains, no discussion by the Council.
- OTHER PUBLIC HEARINGS (See Agenda for the items)
Item 10 - 13 - Report of ALRC, all passed on voice vote
Item 14 & 15 - Report of Board of Public Works, passed on voice vote.
Report of Plan Commission
Item 16 - Duane Johnson registered - same as early registration
Item 17 - no one in attendance
Item 18 - Silicon Prairie Parkway - no one in attendance
Item 19 - no registrants
16 - 18 adopted with substitute on 19 that is on their desks all passed on a voice vote. Skidmore abstains on 16.
CITIZEN APPOINTMENTS
Item 20 - Bert Zipperer speaks in opposition. Speaking for himself. Megin McDonell is an EOC appointment with housing experience, invaluable member and officer of EOC. He says the EOC and all the appointments depend upon the Council to give the committee members their three year terms. There are 13 members on EOC and 7 of the members have 2 years experience or less. 3 members have 4 -6 years experience. 3 members have 10 or more years experience and without Megin that leaves 2 members with that experience. He says he understands the prerogative to make changes, but says they also have responsibility to look and makes sure that they are not doing damage. He thinks this is important and wanted people to be aware of it.
Pham-Remmele asks Bert - has Megin been showing up and fulfill her duties. In 11 years, she's had excellent attendance, she had been the Vice President of the commission for 7 years and participates in many subcommittees of the commission.
Thuy asks the following questions with Bert's answers:
Any complaints? No.
Has she been investigated on some wrong doing? No.
Do you need fresh perspective? Bert says a 10 or 12 year rule might be good, but alot of people move on for various reasons, so many people don't stay until replaced, most leave before they are there for 4 years (move out of town, new job, grad school) so rotating people might sound good, but losing experienced people with historical memory and lots to offer to the commission is a problem. He thinks that they will not benefit from Megin's loss.
Satya Rhodes Conway votes no - Rummel speaks up and votes no. Pham-Remmele abstains, that is 16 votes and it passes.
PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION
Click here for blog on Property Tax Exemption discussion at the Council meeting. (I did a separate blog to keep this post from being WAAAAYYYY too long.)
BANNING LIQUOR IN SMALL PACKAGES
Click here for discussion on Banning Sales of Liquor Packaged in Small Quantities.
BUY AMERICAN WITH STIMULUS MONEY
#60 – there is a substitute at their desks and 1 speaker Alliance for American something-or-other that I missed.
Larry Warman spoke about buying steal and keeping jobs in the United States, these resolutions shouldn’t be necessary, but because of the markets, we need policies like this to keep manufacturing jobs here.
Alder Rhodes-Conway encourages support.
Schumacher reminds people that we are all interconnected in the world, but will support this. He says its symbolic and reminds people that there is a larger world out there. Says even Obama has said that buying American is not always the answer.
CURFEW
Click here for discussion on Curfew.
The council adjourned around 12:10.
Read more!
GETTING STARTED
The meeting started around 6:38, Mayor was in the chair since before 6:30, but it still took nearly 10 minutes to get started. I don't know why they can't start on time, everyone seemed to be in the room, its just that everyone was busy chatting. I'm not sure if that bothers anyone, but it used to drive me a little crazy.
Cnare was absent, which was notified in advance. Palm also absent, which was not anticipated. Palm did arrive later in the meeting.
The meeting started with mic problems, as usual. Bruer had to use Kerr's microphone, to the vocally expressed displeasure of Alder Kerr. Bruer makes the motion to suspend the rules allowing them to take things out of order and introduce items from the floor, no objection, as usual.
HONORING RESOLUTIONS
Item 1 - referred to May 19 when Memorial Spartan Boys Swimming and Diving team can be there.
Item 2 - adoption of resolution declaring May 9th Broom St. Theatre Day - only Julia Kerr stands. Like many good organizations, they've been around since 1969 and proud to be serving Madison and intend to stay around for years to come.
Item 3 - adoption of a resolution honoring the selfless heroism of Lt. Gerald Stull - over 50 years ago he flew plane into Lake Monona to avoid running into a Madison neighborhood, and the neighborhood is placing a memorial in a neighborhood park with a ceremony in Hudson Park (Lakeland & Miller Ave) Saturday at 11:00. Lt. Stull's family will be in attendance.
Item 4 - adoption of a resolution that congratulates Madison Memorial Boys Basketball Team - State Division 1 Title - Coach spoke with his team behind him. He said it is great to win in their home town and he hopes the state tourney stays here in Madison.
Item 5 - adoption of a resolution recognizing Public Service Recognition Week May 4 - 10. The plaque was accepted by Brad Wirtz of Human Resources which was probably a little insulting to some city staff. He rushed through reading a written speech with little enthusiasm or sincerity. I couldn't tell if he was a bad public speaker, or just annoyed to be there. There will be a ceremony today at noon on steps of . . . either City Hall or the City-County Building . . . I wasn't quite clear.
Item 6 - Cinco de Mayo resolution. There was no one to accept it but Alder Bidar-Sielaff spoke to explain no one there to accept resolution because they were celebrating the day elsewhere.
It was nearly 7:55 by the time they were done with all the honoring resolutions. Its the most I have seen in a while.
Item 7 - A petition from Java Cat regarding the widening of Monona Drive was referred to Board of Public Works.
EARLY PUBLIC COMMENT
Early Public Comment - Duane Johnson on item 16 representing Ikonica on Demming Way. Registered to speak - no questions from the council.
CONSENT AGENDA
The consent agenda -
23 is the citizen appointments introduced tonight and it was referred to 5/19 council meeting
48 a bartender's license for a man who works at the Edgewater was referred back to ALRC
163 was the Aldermanic appointments that Alder Pham-Remmele was threatening to quit over, but it was placed on file.
20 (appointments to committees of people not living in Madison), 54 (Resources for Tuberculosis), 55 (Amending Public Health Budget to carry over funds form 2008) & 62 (Annual Budget adjustments, including spending over $100,000 from Contingent Reserve) - all were unanimously approved even tho they were super majority items. Items can be looked up on the agenda.
WILL ALDER THUY PHAM-REMMELE QUIT IN DISGUST OVER MAYORAL ALDERMANIC APPOINTMENTS
No. The item was placed on file. Alder Pham-Remmele speaks, but asks what it means to place 163 on file and thanks Alder Bruer for requesting this to be placed on the agenda, but says it is not necessary. So, the Common Council did not need to face the dilemma.
Items separated for discussion were:
20 - Citizen Appointments
24 - Property Tax Exemption
41 - Banning sales of small quantities of liquor
60 - Buy American with Stimulus Money
102 - Curfew
SWINE FLU, ER . . . H1N1 Virus
Special Order of Business - update on swine flu from Doctor Schlenker - item #164 was moved out of order - they didn't vote on it or make a motion. Schlenker updated the council that while the flu is wide spread it is not as severe as originally thought. He said that there were no deaths in United States (?) but there have been 30 hospitalizations however they have been brief. He said there are 400 cases nationally in most states. In Wisconsin there are 119 cases in 10 counties. As of last night, we have our first probable case here in Dane County where an infant who had visited Mexico was ill. He was tested and they don't know for sure because the test was inconclusive. The boy and his family are isolated and at home and being monitored by public health nurses, and the boy has recovered at this point. He has very caring and capable parents. He has not attended any kind of school in last few months so no concern there either. The other 56 specimens taken in Dane County are 48 that have been negative, 7 still pending, but likely to have more cases in coming days. He reiterates it is a relatively mild illness - no worse than seasonal influenza. He also said it was unlikely that there would be any school closures, the Centers for Disease control has new guidelines do not recommend school closures at this time. Instead they recommend that schools should ID people who are sick and make them go home.
Pham-Remmele asks if there are special precautions for older people. Schlenker says to wash hands frequently, cover mouth when cough or sneeze, if sick stay home, if elderly or other physical disability be in touch with your doctor but unless develop respiratory problems you do not need to seek medical attention. She asks about if people should be wearing masks. Schlenker says no, not necessary or very effective.
Mayor asks if the flu is expected to return in the fall. Schlenker says yes, and that is a concern now that it has proven to be very effectively transmitted between humans it would only take a mutation or two to ratchet up the seriousness but he hopes to have a vaccine for the fall.
PUBLIC HEARINGS - ITEMS 8 - 19.
- DEMOLITION DEFINITION
Item 8 Definition of Demolition - no registrants. I was slightly surprised no one showed up to express concerns and that there were no amendments. I believe that the motion was on the original not the alternate.
Alder Rhodes-Conway points out that there is an alternate and asked Brad Murphy to explain the ordinance. He said current ordinance doesn't have a definition of demolition and staff has had to use judgement about if large scale remodeling warranted demolition review. This ordinance provides an objective definition - and if 50% of the wall area or the front wall are being removed it would require plan commission approval.
Rhodes-Conway asks what happens if it is less than 50% of the wall area. Murphy explained that they would need staff review and approval of building plans against building code.
Rhodes-Conway asks about historic buildings. He says all projects that are landmarked or in historic district would need to be approved by Landmarks.
Rhodes-Conway asks about "demolition by neglect". Murphy says that was topic of discussion when demolition ordinance was revised a year ago.
There was a roll call, but it was unanimous that all 19 people in attendance (Cnare absent) voted in support. The Mayor makes a snide "thanks" to alder Rhodes-Conway for requesting roll call.
- MERITER
Item 9 - Steve Jacobson spoke in opposition, lives in Triangle, Brittingham Place, sent an email to the council that he said they all have (but they don't). He opposes 11 story building because it will have a negative impact on his community. He would like it referred until consideration given to the neighbors - 300 low income, elderly and disabled residents plus Bayview. He thinks that they should review the parking and do a cost benefit analysis. He thinks neighborhood process (3 meetings) was ok but says there is still room for discussion about what conclusions should be drawn from the meetings and how the input was used. There were three neighborhood associations involved. One Neighborhood Association said there wasn't time to comment on the project and suggests they want information on what a one story bungalow will look like next to a 164 foot building. Another neighborhood association in the area also did not vote on the project. He knocked on doors today and people were concerned about tv reception and other issues. He also said that everyone he talked to facing 11 story building opposes the project.
Joe Stark - also from Braxton Place was in opposition but did not speak.
3 registrations in support, all representing Meriter Hospital
Alder Kerr said that she sent the email to allalders@cityofmadison.com at the beginning of meeting so if they have their computers they can read the email the speaker was referring to. She thinks the process was good and excited about Meriter making an investment in the corridor. Some of Mr. Jacobson's concerns were addressed in plan commission motion last night. The item was approved with additional conditions, not available to the public but on the desks of the alders. King abstains, no discussion by the Council.
- OTHER PUBLIC HEARINGS (See Agenda for the items)
Item 10 - 13 - Report of ALRC, all passed on voice vote
Item 14 & 15 - Report of Board of Public Works, passed on voice vote.
Report of Plan Commission
Item 16 - Duane Johnson registered - same as early registration
Item 17 - no one in attendance
Item 18 - Silicon Prairie Parkway - no one in attendance
Item 19 - no registrants
16 - 18 adopted with substitute on 19 that is on their desks all passed on a voice vote. Skidmore abstains on 16.
CITIZEN APPOINTMENTS
Item 20 - Bert Zipperer speaks in opposition. Speaking for himself. Megin McDonell is an EOC appointment with housing experience, invaluable member and officer of EOC. He says the EOC and all the appointments depend upon the Council to give the committee members their three year terms. There are 13 members on EOC and 7 of the members have 2 years experience or less. 3 members have 4 -6 years experience. 3 members have 10 or more years experience and without Megin that leaves 2 members with that experience. He says he understands the prerogative to make changes, but says they also have responsibility to look and makes sure that they are not doing damage. He thinks this is important and wanted people to be aware of it.
Pham-Remmele asks Bert - has Megin been showing up and fulfill her duties. In 11 years, she's had excellent attendance, she had been the Vice President of the commission for 7 years and participates in many subcommittees of the commission.
Thuy asks the following questions with Bert's answers:
Any complaints? No.
Has she been investigated on some wrong doing? No.
Do you need fresh perspective? Bert says a 10 or 12 year rule might be good, but alot of people move on for various reasons, so many people don't stay until replaced, most leave before they are there for 4 years (move out of town, new job, grad school) so rotating people might sound good, but losing experienced people with historical memory and lots to offer to the commission is a problem. He thinks that they will not benefit from Megin's loss.
Satya Rhodes Conway votes no - Rummel speaks up and votes no. Pham-Remmele abstains, that is 16 votes and it passes.
PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION
Click here for blog on Property Tax Exemption discussion at the Council meeting. (I did a separate blog to keep this post from being WAAAAYYYY too long.)
BANNING LIQUOR IN SMALL PACKAGES
Click here for discussion on Banning Sales of Liquor Packaged in Small Quantities.
BUY AMERICAN WITH STIMULUS MONEY
#60 – there is a substitute at their desks and 1 speaker Alliance for American something-or-other that I missed.
Larry Warman spoke about buying steal and keeping jobs in the United States, these resolutions shouldn’t be necessary, but because of the markets, we need policies like this to keep manufacturing jobs here.
Alder Rhodes-Conway encourages support.
Schumacher reminds people that we are all interconnected in the world, but will support this. He says its symbolic and reminds people that there is a larger world out there. Says even Obama has said that buying American is not always the answer.
CURFEW
Click here for discussion on Curfew.
The council adjourned around 12:10.
Read more!
Council Recap - Property Tax Exemption Resolution (#24)
Here's a recap on the resolution asking the State Legislature to fix the Property Tax Exemption Problem caused by court cases brought to court by the City of Madison.
PUBLIC COMMENT
David Sparer speaks in support. He explains he's the Vice Chair of Housing Committee and that the Housing Committee has a subcommittee that is working on this issue. He says the committee meetings have had alot of interest and that so many people showing up they had to get bigger room. He says this resolution is sort of what they supported and he wants people to support it, but thinks there are a few things that were changed from the subcommittee and he'd urge that it be amended.
1. Wanted Council to direct the City lobbyists. Leaves that up to Council.
2. What is really important they had 2 "tweaks" to the bill on the vetoed language that would make a change in the state law. The committee felt they were important. He explains that they were drafted by Tim Radelet. He says the current resolution language is only requesting something substantially similar to the vetoed language. He thinks they should be more specific so that they preserve the status quo. He explains that neither of the changes create further exemptions than currently exists. One "tweak" deals with the definition of "benevolent" and he says it needs be modified to include all of the status quo. 2nd "tweak" deals with multiple buildings in the same project that might be on separate tax parcels - without the language each parcel would need to meet requirements on their own while the projects function as a whole.
Mike Basford left before being able to speak.
Dean Loumos - Prefers the original language. His support is qualified because he says the council is acting too late. He's been working on this for over 5 years. If this policy is not changed at the state level, we will be in a situation at a statewide level that makes affordable housing unaffordable and it will increase in homelessness. Wants lobbyists to go to state with a sense of urgency. Programs won't be able to pay these taxes. He explains that the law shouldn't be used to support an absurd result - so his point is why not pass any appeal that comes before them to asks for reinstatement of tax exemption. Put the pressure back on the state. Invites alders to rally at noon on Tuesday. There will be a tent city because we know homelessness is happening and if this is not fixed there will be an increase and the homeless will be sleeping on the Capital grounds and in the City-County Building. Please don't increase homelessness.
Marilyn Feil - housing case worker for 15 years, member of Affordable Housing Action Alliance but speaking for herself. Wants state to change and wants city to work hard to make it happen. If that doesn't happen, she wants a Plan B. She says this is going to affect us at the local level. People will lose their housing or people won't be able to afford the housing they are in. This will create stress and hardship for individuals. Talks about East Pointe apartments and how it has improved and they might hand keys back to the city. While I missed part of what she was saying as someone was talking to me, she made some remark about maybe that is what the city wants - a new project since they are getting done with Allied Drive.
Bob Holloway - Talks about the economic hardship affecting people now, and reminds the Council that some poeple live with it year after year. He says this population is at risk and has fewer people to speak for it and it needs the Council the most. This seems to be a moral imperative, he doesn't mean to preach, but to encourage the Council to embrace those in our neighborhoods and city that don't have the resources, opportunity and voice. He says the Council should step up and speak on their behalf so we, as a city can be judged favorably on how we treat those least among us.
11 people registered in in support not wishing to speak.
QUESTIONS OF STAFF
Schumacher says asked all alders to sponsor the original resolution and that many people signed on. The substitute is from meeting with Mayor's office. He asked Mario Mendoza to speak about changes. However, the Mayor interrupted and offered to speak instead. He said that the most significant is the tweaks that Sparer spoke about. He says he doesn't have a problem with the language, but thinks that what they have is substanitally similar, and he didn't want to be hemmed in to specifics while lobbying because sometimes need to make a decision at the last moment as things come up. It is in fact waht they will push for. He just wants room to move.
IS THE CITY STARTING A NEW CHALLENGE TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION?
Kerr asks assessor or city attorney about comment in paper about city was also looking at payments to for-profit subcontractors. Is this a new angle the city is pursuing? Assessor says alot of non-profits have money paid to subcontractors and that they always looked at the 990 statement and the payments made to figure out levels of benevolence of the non-profits. They look to see if they are at the same level of expenses as a for-profit.
[Sidenote: Schumacher, Bruer and Joel Plant caucusing in back of room. Verveer joins them, must be on the alcohol issue.]
Assessor continues:
He seems concerned about half million to million dollar payments to property management companies. He says this is not a procedural change to review this and it is something that they have always looked at when reviewing eligibility for exemption. He says those numbers were large so they were a red flag. He says he hasn't looked at managment percentage to rental income. Has two in non-profits in mind - they happen to be two of the non-profits that took the cases to court. He says they look at this every time someone requests an exemption.
Julia asks if there will be policy or procedure changes, he says its the same as always.
[Sidenote: Bullshit. This is a change to review this.]
MOTION TO AMEND
Alder Rummel moves to add the language back to include the lobbyists in new "number 1"
In "number 3" - add the language that was originally in there on the tweaks.
[Sidenote: "Number 1" refers to the 1st whereas clause, and "Number 3" appears to be a new paragraph.]
Bruer says its friendly, Compton objects and is ignored.
Rummel explains that her language adds sense of urgency and includes the two tweaks discussed by Sparer. [Sidenote: Mayor's staff turns around and glares at me. HUH? Is everything still my fault?]
Bruer says he thinks the motions were well intended but concerned about dynamics in governor's office and legislature, reconsidering due to political sensistivies and after being kicked under the table (presumably by Alder Kerr). Now after thinking about the friendliness of the motion, he is worried about bigger picture.
Mayor explains that the first change "just hurt his feelings" (I'm not kidding!) He says that they have been working on it for 5 years. Mayor also says they don't want to lock themselves into the position with the tweaks. He doesn't want to be in position to say he agrees but council doesn't and that would put him in bad position. [Sidenote, are the lobbyists working for him or the Council?]
Alder Compton is uncomfortable directing city lobbyists [She thinks this refers to people who are required to register because they are lobbying city officials - the ones covered by the City lobbying ordinance] and wants to clarify that it means the hired lobbyists who are lobbying the legislature on the City's behalf. Mayor says he assumes that it means contracted staff, Compton asks the Mayor if he knows what "assume" stand for. There is discussion about how to clarify this, but no changes are made.
Clear can't support changes - go figure. [He's such a tool for the Mayor] Thinks it will box the lobbyists into a corner. Thinks that we are directing them to do only one specific thing and the perfect might be the enemy of the good. He says passing something is more important than the exact langauge that we want.
Kerr says that usually agrees with Alder Rummel, but has gotten lobbying 101 and its the most fluid thing she has seen. And she just wants to get to the end goal - tax exempt low income housing.
[Rummel and Solomon and Sparer caucusing in the back of the room - Ray Harmon repositioning his place in the room to eavesdrop.]
Palm says we all know we need to lobby state legislature. He's surprised he agrees with Alder Kerr that need some latitude here and we're not in the drivers seat - goes into some driving metaphore I didn't catch. Thinks its ok to direct the lobbyist and we need to keep end goal in mind.
Rummel says she pulled the words from the original, and she thinks that this language is needed to accomplish what we want. She says we need to define housing so that 75 - 80% of the residents are low income and not 100%. She says that is pretty fundamental. [She didn't say it, but we've been trying to create mixed use housing instead of having projects that are 100% low income.] She says that definition is important. The second "tweak" is important because we need to look at the projects in the aggregate.
City attorney [after consulting with the Mayor] helps with language to say something to the affect that they want something substantially similar to the vetoed language along with the language offered by the Property Tax Exemption subcommittee. That, too, was friendly.
Bruer says this reinforces how much this body and the Mayor's office is dedicated to bring on legislative change and says its out of our hands. He says the city is dedicated, to the extent that we ignored the city attorney, and he wants to reinforce and urge you [the viewers] to contact the Governor and leadership. He says that there is a cross section of the Council trying to do the right thing to fix what could be a catostropic impact to the city.
Clear ties to clarify the amendment. He gets it wrong. Mayor explains that the city attorney language was to incorporate the language from the subcommittee, but the Mayor wants to clarify the first part. [Even tho Bruer already acepted it as friendly.]
Bruer says he thought it was all one motion.
Compton says she also thought she was misunderstanding - dealing with 1 & 3. Mayor says he thinks 3 was friendly, but 1 was not. [Apparently, he's just making things up now? No one challenges him.]
Alder Schumacher agrees with Bruer that we are all behind this and thinks that amendment to paragraph three is good mixture - but he doesn't want to mix means with ends. Doesn't want to dilute powerfulness of the clauses so he's opposed to number 1 [the part that hurt the mayor's feelings]. Wants people to stay focused on goal. We'll be lucky if legislators even read this and they want to make sure they read the important part. [Note: he doesn't end up voting that way.]
Solomon says he supports it, but says that he agrees with Alder Bruer's comments but upset about the process and in part it is the Council's fault that it got this far. He is upset about the council getting overruled by the City Attorney. He says he's scared because it sets a dnagerous precedent about our role and we need to not ever find ourselves in this position again. He says this should worry anyone who cares about democracy. He says its our job on the council to do what we think is best and to have that taken away from us is upsetting.
On amenedment 1 roll call on if hurt mayor's feelings. They clearly did not know what they were voting on as people voted the opposite of what they said on the Council floor. Only Alders Pham-Remmel and Compton voted with the Mayor.
So, both the amendment 1 & 3 pass and the resolution passes unanimously.
Read more!
PUBLIC COMMENT
David Sparer speaks in support. He explains he's the Vice Chair of Housing Committee and that the Housing Committee has a subcommittee that is working on this issue. He says the committee meetings have had alot of interest and that so many people showing up they had to get bigger room. He says this resolution is sort of what they supported and he wants people to support it, but thinks there are a few things that were changed from the subcommittee and he'd urge that it be amended.
1. Wanted Council to direct the City lobbyists. Leaves that up to Council.
2. What is really important they had 2 "tweaks" to the bill on the vetoed language that would make a change in the state law. The committee felt they were important. He explains that they were drafted by Tim Radelet. He says the current resolution language is only requesting something substantially similar to the vetoed language. He thinks they should be more specific so that they preserve the status quo. He explains that neither of the changes create further exemptions than currently exists. One "tweak" deals with the definition of "benevolent" and he says it needs be modified to include all of the status quo. 2nd "tweak" deals with multiple buildings in the same project that might be on separate tax parcels - without the language each parcel would need to meet requirements on their own while the projects function as a whole.
Mike Basford left before being able to speak.
Dean Loumos - Prefers the original language. His support is qualified because he says the council is acting too late. He's been working on this for over 5 years. If this policy is not changed at the state level, we will be in a situation at a statewide level that makes affordable housing unaffordable and it will increase in homelessness. Wants lobbyists to go to state with a sense of urgency. Programs won't be able to pay these taxes. He explains that the law shouldn't be used to support an absurd result - so his point is why not pass any appeal that comes before them to asks for reinstatement of tax exemption. Put the pressure back on the state. Invites alders to rally at noon on Tuesday. There will be a tent city because we know homelessness is happening and if this is not fixed there will be an increase and the homeless will be sleeping on the Capital grounds and in the City-County Building. Please don't increase homelessness.
Marilyn Feil - housing case worker for 15 years, member of Affordable Housing Action Alliance but speaking for herself. Wants state to change and wants city to work hard to make it happen. If that doesn't happen, she wants a Plan B. She says this is going to affect us at the local level. People will lose their housing or people won't be able to afford the housing they are in. This will create stress and hardship for individuals. Talks about East Pointe apartments and how it has improved and they might hand keys back to the city. While I missed part of what she was saying as someone was talking to me, she made some remark about maybe that is what the city wants - a new project since they are getting done with Allied Drive.
Bob Holloway - Talks about the economic hardship affecting people now, and reminds the Council that some poeple live with it year after year. He says this population is at risk and has fewer people to speak for it and it needs the Council the most. This seems to be a moral imperative, he doesn't mean to preach, but to encourage the Council to embrace those in our neighborhoods and city that don't have the resources, opportunity and voice. He says the Council should step up and speak on their behalf so we, as a city can be judged favorably on how we treat those least among us.
11 people registered in in support not wishing to speak.
QUESTIONS OF STAFF
Schumacher says asked all alders to sponsor the original resolution and that many people signed on. The substitute is from meeting with Mayor's office. He asked Mario Mendoza to speak about changes. However, the Mayor interrupted and offered to speak instead. He said that the most significant is the tweaks that Sparer spoke about. He says he doesn't have a problem with the language, but thinks that what they have is substanitally similar, and he didn't want to be hemmed in to specifics while lobbying because sometimes need to make a decision at the last moment as things come up. It is in fact waht they will push for. He just wants room to move.
IS THE CITY STARTING A NEW CHALLENGE TO PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION?
Kerr asks assessor or city attorney about comment in paper about city was also looking at payments to for-profit subcontractors. Is this a new angle the city is pursuing? Assessor says alot of non-profits have money paid to subcontractors and that they always looked at the 990 statement and the payments made to figure out levels of benevolence of the non-profits. They look to see if they are at the same level of expenses as a for-profit.
[Sidenote: Schumacher, Bruer and Joel Plant caucusing in back of room. Verveer joins them, must be on the alcohol issue.]
Assessor continues:
He seems concerned about half million to million dollar payments to property management companies. He says this is not a procedural change to review this and it is something that they have always looked at when reviewing eligibility for exemption. He says those numbers were large so they were a red flag. He says he hasn't looked at managment percentage to rental income. Has two in non-profits in mind - they happen to be two of the non-profits that took the cases to court. He says they look at this every time someone requests an exemption.
Julia asks if there will be policy or procedure changes, he says its the same as always.
[Sidenote: Bullshit. This is a change to review this.]
MOTION TO AMEND
Alder Rummel moves to add the language back to include the lobbyists in new "number 1"
In "number 3" - add the language that was originally in there on the tweaks.
[Sidenote: "Number 1" refers to the 1st whereas clause, and "Number 3" appears to be a new paragraph.]
Bruer says its friendly, Compton objects and is ignored.
Rummel explains that her language adds sense of urgency and includes the two tweaks discussed by Sparer. [Sidenote: Mayor's staff turns around and glares at me. HUH? Is everything still my fault?]
Bruer says he thinks the motions were well intended but concerned about dynamics in governor's office and legislature, reconsidering due to political sensistivies and after being kicked under the table (presumably by Alder Kerr). Now after thinking about the friendliness of the motion, he is worried about bigger picture.
Mayor explains that the first change "just hurt his feelings" (I'm not kidding!) He says that they have been working on it for 5 years. Mayor also says they don't want to lock themselves into the position with the tweaks. He doesn't want to be in position to say he agrees but council doesn't and that would put him in bad position. [Sidenote, are the lobbyists working for him or the Council?]
Alder Compton is uncomfortable directing city lobbyists [She thinks this refers to people who are required to register because they are lobbying city officials - the ones covered by the City lobbying ordinance] and wants to clarify that it means the hired lobbyists who are lobbying the legislature on the City's behalf. Mayor says he assumes that it means contracted staff, Compton asks the Mayor if he knows what "assume" stand for. There is discussion about how to clarify this, but no changes are made.
Clear can't support changes - go figure. [He's such a tool for the Mayor] Thinks it will box the lobbyists into a corner. Thinks that we are directing them to do only one specific thing and the perfect might be the enemy of the good. He says passing something is more important than the exact langauge that we want.
Kerr says that usually agrees with Alder Rummel, but has gotten lobbying 101 and its the most fluid thing she has seen. And she just wants to get to the end goal - tax exempt low income housing.
[Rummel and Solomon and Sparer caucusing in the back of the room - Ray Harmon repositioning his place in the room to eavesdrop.]
Palm says we all know we need to lobby state legislature. He's surprised he agrees with Alder Kerr that need some latitude here and we're not in the drivers seat - goes into some driving metaphore I didn't catch. Thinks its ok to direct the lobbyist and we need to keep end goal in mind.
Rummel says she pulled the words from the original, and she thinks that this language is needed to accomplish what we want. She says we need to define housing so that 75 - 80% of the residents are low income and not 100%. She says that is pretty fundamental. [She didn't say it, but we've been trying to create mixed use housing instead of having projects that are 100% low income.] She says that definition is important. The second "tweak" is important because we need to look at the projects in the aggregate.
City attorney [after consulting with the Mayor] helps with language to say something to the affect that they want something substantially similar to the vetoed language along with the language offered by the Property Tax Exemption subcommittee. That, too, was friendly.
Bruer says this reinforces how much this body and the Mayor's office is dedicated to bring on legislative change and says its out of our hands. He says the city is dedicated, to the extent that we ignored the city attorney, and he wants to reinforce and urge you [the viewers] to contact the Governor and leadership. He says that there is a cross section of the Council trying to do the right thing to fix what could be a catostropic impact to the city.
Clear ties to clarify the amendment. He gets it wrong. Mayor explains that the city attorney language was to incorporate the language from the subcommittee, but the Mayor wants to clarify the first part. [Even tho Bruer already acepted it as friendly.]
Bruer says he thought it was all one motion.
Compton says she also thought she was misunderstanding - dealing with 1 & 3. Mayor says he thinks 3 was friendly, but 1 was not. [Apparently, he's just making things up now? No one challenges him.]
Alder Schumacher agrees with Bruer that we are all behind this and thinks that amendment to paragraph three is good mixture - but he doesn't want to mix means with ends. Doesn't want to dilute powerfulness of the clauses so he's opposed to number 1 [the part that hurt the mayor's feelings]. Wants people to stay focused on goal. We'll be lucky if legislators even read this and they want to make sure they read the important part. [Note: he doesn't end up voting that way.]
Solomon says he supports it, but says that he agrees with Alder Bruer's comments but upset about the process and in part it is the Council's fault that it got this far. He is upset about the council getting overruled by the City Attorney. He says he's scared because it sets a dnagerous precedent about our role and we need to not ever find ourselves in this position again. He says this should worry anyone who cares about democracy. He says its our job on the council to do what we think is best and to have that taken away from us is upsetting.
On amenedment 1 roll call on if hurt mayor's feelings. They clearly did not know what they were voting on as people voted the opposite of what they said on the Council floor. Only Alders Pham-Remmel and Compton voted with the Mayor.
So, both the amendment 1 & 3 pass and the resolution passes unanimously.
Read more!
Council Recap - Curfew (#102)
They really should have moved this item up on the agenda. They didn't get to it until after 10:00 . . . and many of the young people there to speak had gone home to do homework. However, instead of making the curfew stricter, they ended up loosening up the rules and making exceptions to the current ordinance.
Alder Bruer moved adoption of the curfew ordinance “for purposes of discussion”. That's usually code for "I'm not voting for it, but I'm making the motion to get it on the table and allow the discussion.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There are 20 people registered. Mayor reminds people they have 3 minutes. (Several people have been going over their time tonight.)
Schumacher brings up the irony of getting to this so late. Tries to make a joke, but not everyone thought it was funny.
Bill Patterson – Talks about work in South Madison and reminds the Council that we all talk about how great Madison is, but we forget not everyone feels that way. He talks about how people in low income neighborhoods migh have a different view of how great Madison is for them. Some might call this ordinance racial profiling. He reminds people that kids are dropping out of school. He says that there are economic effects of kids not getting education and that impact is bigger than the current recession. He says we aren’t fixing the basic problems in the communities, police can't solve the problems alone. He says we might need police, but we aren’t addressing the underlying issues. He tells the council about a Children Defense Fund report – Cradle to Prison pipeline. He says the people who did the report would consider this ordinance something that aids in that process. He talks about the Dane County Task Force on Racial Disparities in the Criminal Justice System. He says that in Dane County the number of non-white to white people arrested is 21 to 1. He reminds people that once someone has been in in prison hard it is hard to get a jobs. He says that he has learned from his work with young people you really need to reach them one on one. Need to address the basics of poverty.
The next person called has already gone home.
Rosemary Lee spoke in opposition. She says she sent an email to council members. She is worried about programs not sponsored by the schools not being exempted. Agrees that it will lead to more racial profiling.
Ed, a younger adult, agrees with Schumachers joke. He tells the council that they are debating something tonight that half the peope in the audience won’t be able to be in the building if it passes. He says he went to the Council session last week and one thing that struck him was that the fact based approach was discussed, but with a fact based appeal there is no need to change the ordinance. He says the police said that they enforce curfew on a common sense basis. When they see someone walking down the street they deal with it on a case by case basis. He says that highlights his juvenile memory – when he heard that he just wanted to shout and cause a scene but he didn’t because I’m an adult now. He says when he was young enough to be impacted by this ordinance he would have gotten himself in trouble. He says the kids are not alright. He says he knows that the Council is concerned about this, but he says the kids are never alright and it’s the natural condition of youth to not be alright. He asks the council to not do more to set the police at odds with youth. Please remember what that is like to be young.
Bert Zipperer – Clarified that he was partially speaking for EOC, and partially as an individual. He said EOC had a public hearing, that they strongly unanimously opposed the ordinance. He said that age is not a crime, action is.
Speaking for himself – he feels that we ahve a problem in the City with disproproptionate racial problems. He says we're in a big hole, we can start now. He says that there were youth in the room tonight and the council sent a serious message – they had to go home cuz had school work but really wanted to be here. He said they saw swine flu get moved up, but not their issue. He also said that they wanted to engage with you and talk to you and they didn’t get that opportunity. He urged us to work on this together and said that criminalizing another hour of the youth's time – for people who might not have a basement with an xbox was unfair. He urged them to do away with extra hour and get to the real issue affecting youth.
2nd person who went home was called.
Andrew (Bange?) – Dane County Youth Baord – He's and 18 year old home schooled high school senior who won't be affected, but this will affect his 15 year old little borther. He asked that when issues of youth are discussed, that they could please talk about it earlier and he noted several people went home. He said what strikes him most is that it is disrespectful to the youth. He said trust breeds trust. He said if you treat us like criminals we’ll act like criminals, its human nature. He pointed out that there are only a few youth commiting crimes and you have laws to deal with them, you don’t need a blanket law criminalizing many youth.
Greg (Bange?) – He spoke briefly and said he was worried about the law of unintended consequences. He told the council that as a parent, he just wanted to right to parent his kids the way he say fit and he thinks this law infringes on that.
(Erika Fox?) – She is a senior at Shabazz. She says that as a citizen she wants her tax dollars well spent, including police force. She said she feels a lot safer knowing that police force is spending time on real criminals, not people her age being outside. She says its not a pervasive problem, that there were only 125 tickets per year. She said an extra hour is just more time to write more tickets – that this new law breeds new criminals. She said if people are commiting crines or drinking or vandalizing, are they really going to stop when the curfew comes up. She said that this makes criminals of people who are outside not creating problems. She says the kids are not all right.
3rd person called who went home.
4th person called who went home.
5th person called who went home.
6th person called who ent home.
County Board Supervisor Matt Veldran speaks. Tries to make some jokes, there's some banter between him and council members about how its good to keep a County Board Supervisor waiting, unless their pregnant (Supervisor Carousel Bayrd was also there but went home.) and he urged them to be nice to staff (his wife is staff to the Common Council). Once that was all over . . . He said he would have preferred that the kids had been able to speak. He pointed out the irony of discussing this at 10:30 and that those who are affected are not here. He pointed out the letter from youth commission opposing. He said he doesn't disagree with with why they want the ordinance, for safer neighborhoods and he understands the frustrations of the community – but this isn’t the correct means. He points out that there are a variety of reasons to be out and none of them are bad. He talks about youth who ride the bus and walk home and those who don't have the luxury of geting a ride in a car. He says the youth board tried to create a standard in Dane County . . . time had to be extended for him . . . He said that he has two middle school kids and he has concerns about the amendment about the two age categories and how that will be enforced. He's concerned about the message this is sending and he urged them to vote no.
7th person went home.
Eric Gunther – from the ACLU. Pointed out that even tho he has a tie, he wasn't from the liquor industry (referring to all the guys in ties there for the alcohol discussion). He's the president of the ACLU board representing 9,000 Wisconsites and the student alliances. They oppose curfew across the board. He says that laws should have association with wrongful conduct. He also points out that if convicted it makes it hard on applications for schools and jobs. If they ask you if you have you ever been convicted of a crime, you can say no. If they ask if you have been convicted of anything other than traffic violation, then the answer is yes. He points out that kids can't go to a late movie, attend a council meeting that goes late, or have their [ick] 4th meal at Taco Bell. He says the police have all the tools they need. There are ordinances on the books for disorderly conduct, smoking, alcohol, noise, aggressive panhanding, lighting a sparkler in a park, throwing stones, etc. He says that this ordinance is walking a constitutional tightrope and that it is more strict than some that have been struck down in other states and even in Wisconsin. He says that we have a choice between Rockwell and Orwell. We can have the nice painting of a kids with an icecream cone being helped by a police officer (Rockwell) or we can have the 1984 Orwell version of the perception of police where power is arbitrary. He doesn't want to indoctrinate youth at a young age that police are not someone to turn to when they witness a crime or are a victim of a sexual assualt. Part way through, he also went over his time - the Mayor didn't even wait for someeone to make a motion to give him more time - he just say "yah, yah, keep going" - apparently giving up on limiting people from saying what they came there to say.
Paul Terranova said it was past his bedtime, but he's the father of two boys and uncle. The kids participate in soccer, drama & violin. He points out that many activities might not be organized by the school. He said that an ordinance that is not enforced across the board without ridiculous results should not be passed. He said kids should not be harassed or be afraid of being seen by a police officer. He said if its enforced selectively – then it will result in even more problem for people of color. There were audible sighs from some alders and he acknowledged their reaction and then went on to say that white kids don’t get police called. He says this
Alder Bruer moved adoption of the curfew ordinance “for purposes of discussion”. That's usually code for "I'm not voting for it, but I'm making the motion to get it on the table and allow the discussion.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There are 20 people registered. Mayor reminds people they have 3 minutes. (Several people have been going over their time tonight.)
Schumacher brings up the irony of getting to this so late. Tries to make a joke, but not everyone thought it was funny.
Bill Patterson – Talks about work in South Madison and reminds the Council that we all talk about how great Madison is, but we forget not everyone feels that way. He talks about how people in low income neighborhoods migh have a different view of how great Madison is for them. Some might call this ordinance racial profiling. He reminds people that kids are dropping out of school. He says that there are economic effects of kids not getting education and that impact is bigger than the current recession. He says we aren’t fixing the basic problems in the communities, police can't solve the problems alone. He says we might need police, but we aren’t addressing the underlying issues. He tells the council about a Children Defense Fund report – Cradle to Prison pipeline. He says the people who did the report would consider this ordinance something that aids in that process. He talks about the Dane County Task Force on Racial Disparities in the Criminal Justice System. He says that in Dane County the number of non-white to white people arrested is 21 to 1. He reminds people that once someone has been in in prison hard it is hard to get a jobs. He says that he has learned from his work with young people you really need to reach them one on one. Need to address the basics of poverty.
The next person called has already gone home.
Rosemary Lee spoke in opposition. She says she sent an email to council members. She is worried about programs not sponsored by the schools not being exempted. Agrees that it will lead to more racial profiling.
Ed, a younger adult, agrees with Schumachers joke. He tells the council that they are debating something tonight that half the peope in the audience won’t be able to be in the building if it passes. He says he went to the Council session last week and one thing that struck him was that the fact based approach was discussed, but with a fact based appeal there is no need to change the ordinance. He says the police said that they enforce curfew on a common sense basis. When they see someone walking down the street they deal with it on a case by case basis. He says that highlights his juvenile memory – when he heard that he just wanted to shout and cause a scene but he didn’t because I’m an adult now. He says when he was young enough to be impacted by this ordinance he would have gotten himself in trouble. He says the kids are not alright. He says he knows that the Council is concerned about this, but he says the kids are never alright and it’s the natural condition of youth to not be alright. He asks the council to not do more to set the police at odds with youth. Please remember what that is like to be young.
Bert Zipperer – Clarified that he was partially speaking for EOC, and partially as an individual. He said EOC had a public hearing, that they strongly unanimously opposed the ordinance. He said that age is not a crime, action is.
Speaking for himself – he feels that we ahve a problem in the City with disproproptionate racial problems. He says we're in a big hole, we can start now. He says that there were youth in the room tonight and the council sent a serious message – they had to go home cuz had school work but really wanted to be here. He said they saw swine flu get moved up, but not their issue. He also said that they wanted to engage with you and talk to you and they didn’t get that opportunity. He urged us to work on this together and said that criminalizing another hour of the youth's time – for people who might not have a basement with an xbox was unfair. He urged them to do away with extra hour and get to the real issue affecting youth.
2nd person who went home was called.
Andrew (Bange?) – Dane County Youth Baord – He's and 18 year old home schooled high school senior who won't be affected, but this will affect his 15 year old little borther. He asked that when issues of youth are discussed, that they could please talk about it earlier and he noted several people went home. He said what strikes him most is that it is disrespectful to the youth. He said trust breeds trust. He said if you treat us like criminals we’ll act like criminals, its human nature. He pointed out that there are only a few youth commiting crimes and you have laws to deal with them, you don’t need a blanket law criminalizing many youth.
Greg (Bange?) – He spoke briefly and said he was worried about the law of unintended consequences. He told the council that as a parent, he just wanted to right to parent his kids the way he say fit and he thinks this law infringes on that.
(Erika Fox?) – She is a senior at Shabazz. She says that as a citizen she wants her tax dollars well spent, including police force. She said she feels a lot safer knowing that police force is spending time on real criminals, not people her age being outside. She says its not a pervasive problem, that there were only 125 tickets per year. She said an extra hour is just more time to write more tickets – that this new law breeds new criminals. She said if people are commiting crines or drinking or vandalizing, are they really going to stop when the curfew comes up. She said that this makes criminals of people who are outside not creating problems. She says the kids are not all right.
3rd person called who went home.
4th person called who went home.
5th person called who went home.
6th person called who ent home.
County Board Supervisor Matt Veldran speaks. Tries to make some jokes, there's some banter between him and council members about how its good to keep a County Board Supervisor waiting, unless their pregnant (Supervisor Carousel Bayrd was also there but went home.) and he urged them to be nice to staff (his wife is staff to the Common Council). Once that was all over . . . He said he would have preferred that the kids had been able to speak. He pointed out the irony of discussing this at 10:30 and that those who are affected are not here. He pointed out the letter from youth commission opposing. He said he doesn't disagree with with why they want the ordinance, for safer neighborhoods and he understands the frustrations of the community – but this isn’t the correct means. He points out that there are a variety of reasons to be out and none of them are bad. He talks about youth who ride the bus and walk home and those who don't have the luxury of geting a ride in a car. He says the youth board tried to create a standard in Dane County . . . time had to be extended for him . . . He said that he has two middle school kids and he has concerns about the amendment about the two age categories and how that will be enforced. He's concerned about the message this is sending and he urged them to vote no.
7th person went home.
Eric Gunther – from the ACLU. Pointed out that even tho he has a tie, he wasn't from the liquor industry (referring to all the guys in ties there for the alcohol discussion). He's the president of the ACLU board representing 9,000 Wisconsites and the student alliances. They oppose curfew across the board. He says that laws should have association with wrongful conduct. He also points out that if convicted it makes it hard on applications for schools and jobs. If they ask you if you have you ever been convicted of a crime, you can say no. If they ask if you have been convicted of anything other than traffic violation, then the answer is yes. He points out that kids can't go to a late movie, attend a council meeting that goes late, or have their [ick] 4th meal at Taco Bell. He says the police have all the tools they need. There are ordinances on the books for disorderly conduct, smoking, alcohol, noise, aggressive panhanding, lighting a sparkler in a park, throwing stones, etc. He says that this ordinance is walking a constitutional tightrope and that it is more strict than some that have been struck down in other states and even in Wisconsin. He says that we have a choice between Rockwell and Orwell. We can have the nice painting of a kids with an icecream cone being helped by a police officer (Rockwell) or we can have the 1984 Orwell version of the perception of police where power is arbitrary. He doesn't want to indoctrinate youth at a young age that police are not someone to turn to when they witness a crime or are a victim of a sexual assualt. Part way through, he also went over his time - the Mayor didn't even wait for someeone to make a motion to give him more time - he just say "yah, yah, keep going" - apparently giving up on limiting people from saying what they came there to say.
Paul Terranova said it was past his bedtime, but he's the father of two boys and uncle. The kids participate in soccer, drama & violin. He points out that many activities might not be organized by the school. He said that an ordinance that is not enforced across the board without ridiculous results should not be passed. He said kids should not be harassed or be afraid of being seen by a police officer. He said if its enforced selectively – then it will result in even more problem for people of color. There were audible sighs from some alders and he acknowledged their reaction and then went on to say that white kids don’t get police called. He says this