Public Meetings - Altoona, Wisconsin

The Altoona Plan Commission met on October 21, 2025, at 4:30 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall for a special meeting focused on the presentation and discussion of Phase 3 chapters of the Zoning and Development Code Rewrite. Planning Director Taylor Greenwell led the presentation, covering access and mobility, subdivision standards, nonconformities, and administrative procedures. Commissioners and staff discussed specific provisions, parking ratios, temporary signage, and next steps for adopting the full code. No public comments were received. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the Citizens Participation Period. Discussion Items - Access and Mobility Standards: Greenwell reviewed proposed standards for street cross-sections, sidewalk widths, tree requirements, driveway curb cuts, parking minimums, and internal access drives. Commissioner Sue raised concerns about on-street parking availability affecting required off-street parking, especially in areas like Lake Road where there is no on-street parking. Greenwell noted that the minimum cross-section for local roads (60-foot right-of-way) accommodates on-street parking, but agreed to note the need for flexibility in special circumstances. The commission discussed planted medians for large parking lots (e.g., Woodman’s entrance); ZPAC recommended against making them mandatory, and the commission generally favored a recommendation rather than a requirement. - Parking Ratios: Greenwell explained that the City Council requested reducing the minimum parking requirement from 1.5 spaces per dwelling unit to 1 space per dwelling unit. Commissioner Sue expressed concern that 1 space per unit is insufficient, citing examples of overflow parking at Lake Road. Greenwell confirmed that a typo in the draft showed 1.5 for tiny homes—that should be 1 space as well. The commission accepted that the final code would reflect the 1-to-1 ratio for all dwelling units. - Subdivision Standards: Greenwell introduced a new type of subdivision called "conservation subdivision," allowing smaller lots in exchange for preserving at least 50% of the gross site area as permanent conservation land. This is optional for developers. The commission also discussed park dedication requirements, with Greenwell proposing a simplified formula or point system to replace the current convoluted process. Commissioner Rock asked about the distance from parks (quarter-mile exemption) and whether school or county parks count; Greenwell said these need clearer definitions and that county parks would not count because dedications are for city parks only. - Nonconformities: Greenwell outlined provisions for nonconforming uses, lots, buildings, and signs, noting that they follow state code. He addressed a question about River Prairie sign variances, stating that many signs approved there exceeded the existing ordinance, but River Prairie has its own design guidelines that allow exemptions. Commissioner Haug suggested possibly adjusting the base sign size to avoid future variances. - Administrative Procedures: Greenwell proposed moving minor site plan approvals, CSMs (certificate of survey maps), and other code-review items to staff-level approval to streamline the process. The plan commission would retain review of major subdivisions, planned community developments, and conditional use permits. Commissioner Rock expressed support for this efficiency. - Temporary Signage: Greenwell led a discussion on regulating temporary signs, including contractor signs, garage sale signs, real estate signs, business promotions, A-frame signs, and seasonal sports/graduation signs. The commission reached consensus: - Contractor signs: Only allowed while work is actively being done under a valid permit; must not be placed in the public right-of-way. Greenwell noted that the building permit checklist already instructs contractors to remove signs when work is complete. - Garage sale signs: Permitted in the right-of-way for the duration of the sale (up to maybe a day before through the event). - Nonprofit event signs: Similar treatment. - Real estate/leasing signs: For-sale signs allowed; short-term rental leasing signs are not temporary and should be permanent signs on the building. - Business promotion openings: Allowed for up to 60 days per calendar year; the commission suggested starting at 60 days and tightening if abused. - A-frame signs: Allowed during operational hours; must be removed overnight. - Seasonal sports/graduation signs: Permitted on private property, out of the right-of-way, as community-friendly. Key Outcomes - The commission directed staff to incorporate feedback from this meeting, ZPAC, and the upcoming City Council meeting into a final draft of the entire development code. The full code will be presented to the Plan Commission for a recommendation, then to the City Council for adoption. - No formal votes were taken; decisions were reached by consensus on temporary signage guidelines and general direction on parking ratios and other provisions. - Greenwell noted that a new zoning map will be prepared and adopted alongside the code, and the environmental ordinance (Title 1950) will be separated into its own chapter to avoid state approval complications. - The meeting adjourned at 7:33 PM.

The Altoona Plan Commission met on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 4:30 PM. Mayor Brendan Pratt presided over the meeting, which focused on preliminary consultations for a commercial subdivision at River Prairie and depth adjustments for single-family lots in the Whitetail Woods development. Staff provided updates on the ongoing zoning code revision and next steps for the Commission. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the September 9, 2025, regular Plan Commission meeting were approved. Members Sue Roll and Matthew Beerin abstained. - The Citizen Participation Period was opened and closed with no members of the public wishing to speak on non-agenda items. Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was received during this meeting. Discussion Items - Preliminary Consultation – River Prairie Commercial CSM: Planning Director Taylor Greenwell presented a proposal by Ryan Erickson (NAI Commonwealth) to create three commercial lots on a parcel west of the River Ridge townhomes near Woodman's. The lots (approximately 5.56, 0.58, and 0.91 acres) are in the River Prairie Mixed-Use District. One lot is planned for a Chipotle restaurant; the tenant for the other commercial building has not been disclosed. The site will use shared parking and cross-access. Concerns were raised about traffic stacking and circulation, which the developer addressed by clarifying the Chipotle will operate a pickup-only drive-through. Staff noted the design is "tight but doable" and will be refined during the formal Site Plan Review (SIP). - Preliminary Consultations – Whitetail Woods Lot Depth Adjustments: Three separate Certified Survey Map (CSM) proposals from 5G Development were reviewed to add 17 feet of depth to lots 5–7, 8–11, and 12–14 of the Whitetail Woods subdivision. The change increases the depth of the R1-zoned lots to 110 feet and the lot area to 7,818 square feet, exceeding the district minimums of 66 feet and 6,000 square feet. Developer Mark from 5G Development explained the extra depth allows builders to construct larger homes. The Commission expressed informal support for the adjustment. - Zoning Code Update: Taylor Greenwell announced a special Plan Commission meeting for the following week to review the final chapters of the zoning code update (administrative procedures, nonconformities, and the subdivision ordinance). The final draft of the full code is expected to be presented to the Commission in December 2025 or January 2026, accompanied by an updated zoning map. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The September 9, 2025 meeting minutes were approved with abstentions. - No Formal Votes on CSMs: As these were preliminary consultations, no formal actions were taken on the proposed subdivisions. Developers received informal feedback to proceed toward formal applications. - Zoning Code Update Schedule: The Commission will continue its review of the final administrative chapters at a special meeting the following week.

The City of Altoona, Wisconsin, Common Council held its regular meeting on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 5:00 P.M. in Council Chambers at Altoona City Hall, 1303 Lynn Avenue. Mayor Brendan Pratt presided; council members Dale Stuber, Timothy Lima, Bruce Thielen, Matthew Buren, Susie Zilmer, and Susan Rowl were present, along with city staff and the city attorney. The council approved the prior meeting minutes, received the quarterly tourism report, approved Resolution 10A-25 authorizing the sale of $6,115,000 in general obligation promissory notes, and met in closed session before unanimously denying a claim filed by Michelle Sanchez. No members of the public spoke during the citizens participation period. Approvals and Routine Business - The minutes of the September 25, 2025, regular council meeting were approved unanimously. - The citizens participation period was closed with no speakers. Quarterly Tourism Report – Visit Eau Claire - The Visit Eau Claire representative reported strong Altoona-related digital engagement: River Prairie pages had just over 10,000 active users since January; event pages, including the River Prairie Giant Pumpkin Festival and Rockin' on the River, had over 8,000 active users. - Overall Visit Eau Claire website traffic was up 35% year over year and surpassed 1.5 million users at the end of September, reaching the annual goal; traffic was 250,000 users in 2019. - Paid advertising specific to Altoona generated over 1 million impressions and nearly 22,000 clicks during the quarter. - The Altoona Yard microsite had more than 27,000 active users and more than 58,000 page views since July 1; Nene Tacos had 643 website referrals. - Recent events included the Open Air Classic, with more than 150 convertibles visiting River Prairie, and a gathering of over 100 outdoor writers from the Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers. - The city received a year-three Travel Wisconsin grant to promote winter tourism, and fall promotions include Scary Prairie and a new mural behind the post office. - Regarding the River Prairie Giant Pumpkin Festival, the presenter said roughly 5,000–10,000 people attended, sponsorships raised over $28,000, the event keeps growing, and organizers are working on safety changes for the pumpkin drop and more sustainable revenue. - Council members voiced strong support for the Visit Eau Claire partnership, citing professional communication, growing room revenues, and social media impressions. Resolution 10A-25 – General Obligation Promissory Notes - The city's financial adviser presented an updated plan for one combined financing of 2025 and 2026 capital projects, with four repayment sources: tax levy, sewer, stormwater, and water utility. - The $6,115,000 note issue would be repaid over 10 years; interest rate assumptions were conservative, about 50 basis points above current market rates, with a city prepayment/call option beginning in 2031. - Existing and proposed debt would total about $19 million, well below the state maximum of about $70 million. - The projected 2025 equalized mill rate was $5.40 per $1,000; 2026 is projected at just above $5.00, in part because the tax base grows from about $890 million to $1.34 billion after the TID closes. - Note: The agenda and the motion state the amount as $6,115,000, but the transcript's early narration says "six point one five five million"; the approved resolution amount was $6,115,000. - The council approved Resolution 10A-25 unanimously. Closed Session and Claim - The council voted unanimously to enter closed session under Wis. Stats. 19.85(1)(g) to confer with legal counsel about litigation involving a Notice of Claim filed by Michelle Sanchez. - After returning to open session, the city attorney reported that the claim was a formal complaint demanding referral to the DOJ regarding police misconduct and neglect of duty. - The city's insurer assigned Carolyn Jacobs of Bello Nichols & Hall to represent the city; counsel recommended denying the claim based on the facts. - The council voted unanimously to disallow the claim. Miscellaneous and Communications - Council discussed the city brush site schedule and whether to offer key/code access for residents. The city administrator was asked to explore options, including a sign-in system and game camera, while maintaining safeguards against illegal dumping. - A council member reported that about 10 volunteers completed trail work at Centennial Park, adding to roughly three miles of bike and hiking trail. Key Outcomes - Approved the September 25, 2025, regular council meeting minutes. - Approved Resolution 10A-25 for the $6,115,000 general obligation promissory note sale. - Entered closed session and later denied the claim filed by Michelle Sanchez. - Directed city staff to explore brush site access improvements.

The Budget Committee met on Thursday, October 9, 2025, to review the proposed 2026 Library budget and the first draft of the 2026 General Fund operating budget. City staff presented revenue and expenditure details, estimated tax impacts, and the remaining budget adoption schedule. The agenda scheduled the meeting for 3:00 p.m.; no formal budget votes were taken. Call to Order and Roll Call - Mayor Brendan Pratt and council members Dale Stuber, Bruce Thielen, Matthew Beeron, Susie Zilmer, and Susan Roll were present; Timothy Lima was absent. A quorum was established. - Staff in attendance included Finance Director Tina Nelson, City Administrator Mike Golott, Police Chief Kelly Botkin, Fire Chief Mark Renderman, Library Director Olivia Morris, and other department heads. Library Budget Presentation - Olivia Morris reviewed library performance through September 30, 2025. Total circulation is on pace to exceed both 2024 and 2023; program attendance is doing exceptionally well; new patron counts are also expected to exceed prior years. - Highlights included 81 attendees for Chad Lewis's "Bizarre Wisconsin" presentation, 20 adults for ukulele lessons, a September library-card registration promotion with local businesses, 973 children and teens in the summer reading program (the highest total ever), and 672 adults submitting book reviews in the revamped adult summer reading program. - County aid has increased dramatically since 2021 because it is based on circulation totals; this year it was just over $500,000. In response to a council question, Olivia clarified the figure is the collective total of adjacent county and interlibrary aid. She said she would provide a breakdown of relative growth by category at a later date. - The library request from the city is $387,000 for 2026, holding steady from 2025 and matching 2023, after a one-year increase to $393,000 in 2024. The request funds a 3.5% cost-of-living increase for part-time staff, a fourth full-time librarian, and step raises for existing full-time librarians. The library also plans to use a grant discussed by the council. - Olivia noted that Altoona's library circulation and program attendance are dramatically above Rice Lake Public Library, a comparable community, reflecting strong community usage. General Fund Budget – First Draft - Tina Nelson recapped the budget calendar: the next meeting is scheduled for November 6 at 4:30 p.m. for the final general fund budget, TID No. 4, affordable housing fund budgets, and the required public notice; November 20 at 4:30 p.m. will feature the final budget presentation, sample tax bill, public hearing, and possible budget adoption. - Notable proposed changes to the 2026 general fund operating budget: - 2.7% CPI-based wage-table increase plus employee step increases; the same 2.7% increase was applied to part-time fire employees, a recommendation from the fire operations study. - One new full-time parks maintenance position, and seasonal parks wages increased from $14 to $16 per hour (total $11,000), with an annual step system; comparable Eau Claire rates are around $17–$18 per hour. - Fire on-call pay would rise from $1.50 to $3.50 per hour, at an estimated cost of about $100,000, as a first step to improve shift coverage. - The Community Service Officer (CSO) budget would be increased substantially to roughly double CSO hours. Police Chief Kelly Botkin described CSOs as primarily code-enforcement staff who also help with traffic and events at lower cost than sworn-officer overtime, and as a recruiting pipeline for future officers. - TID No. 3 closure adds $607,155 to the general fund, but also shifts administrative wage allocations to the general fund and utilities. Net new construction was only 1.87%, limiting the allowable levy increase without TID closure to $52,240.92. - Health insurance premiums were flat, which Tina described as unheard of. No transfer from reserves is proposed for 2026, after $400,000 was budgeted from reserves in 2025, $359,000 in 2024, and $182,000 in 2023. - A council member asked about the disposition of $1.1 million in one-time TID 3 proceeds; Tina explained the amount will be unassigned after the audit is completed and can be allocated as the council chooses. - Revenue changes in the 2026 draft include a 14.79% increase in the tax line due to the TID closure (not a 14.79% tax increase), lower expected building permit revenue, and higher charges for services and miscellaneous/interest revenue. - Expenditure changes include: general government down 1.88%; police, building, and animal control up 9.12%; EMS and fire up 13.47%; public works and building inspection down 6.52%; parks and recreation up 7.16%; tourism down 1.9%; forestry down; planning and development up 2.45%. Overall expenses are up 5.8%. - The proposed total levy for the general fund, debt service, and library is $6.7 million. Tina estimated an equalized mill rate of 5.01 and an assessed mill rate of 5.31, pending the state's final assessment statement with manufacturing values. A property valued at $150,000 would see an estimated $25 decrease in its city tax bill; higher-valued properties would see larger decreases. - A council member expressed concern about the reduced forestry operating budget because boulevards and parks still need trees; Tina clarified tree planting is in the capital budget, not the operating line item. - Tina described the budget as very, very tight after $500,000 was cut in the last week, but said employees had worked together well. Council members generally expressed comfort with the draft. Miscellaneous Business: Council Raises - The committee discussed council compensation, noting it has not increased in more than ten years. Comparisons to Eau Claire, where council members earn over $8,000, were cited; Altoona council members receive $200 per month. The discussion noted that low pay makes recruitment difficult and indicated the issue should be addressed. Key Outcomes - No formal action was taken on the 2026 budget; the meeting was informational. - Tina Nelson agreed to look into providing council members with links to view detailed draft budget data in the ClearGov system during development. - The next budget meeting is scheduled for November 6, 2025, at 4:30 p.m., with the final budget presentation and public hearing on November 20, 2025. - The meeting adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

The Altoona Common Council met at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall, 1303 Lynn Avenue, Altoona, WI. Mayor Brendan Pratt presided; council members Dale Stuber, Timothy Lima, Bruce Thielen, Matthew Beer, Susie Zilmer, and Susan Rowe were present, along with city staff. The Council approved prior minutes and a Police and Fire Commission appointment, discussed a library grant application and the East Neighborhood development concept, and entered closed session regarding a future fire station site. Consent Calendar - Approved Mayor's appointment of Amie Saykally-Wing to fill the vacant Police and Fire Commission position by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No one spoke during the formal Citizens Participation Period. - During the East Neighborhood discussion, nearby resident Todd Adams of the Town of Washington said he has lived next to the site for 26 years and is concerned about impacts on his property, including lighting, trespassing, trash, and loss of rural surroundings; he asked for a buffer or shielding and to be kept informed. - Nearby resident Kim Lino said she sympathized because she lives next to White Tail Woods; she questioned the proposed neighborhood's proximity to the landfill, the safety of the Highway 12 traffic area, and whether homes would sell, and noted the property is in the Fall Creek School District. She also cited a density change in another nearby development as a concern. Reports & Updates - City Administrator Michael Golat reported on a Chamber business-day presentation with Eau Claire and Eau Claire County focused on growth challenges; he also discussed park punch-list work by Containers Up, with roughly $30,000 still outstanding and communication challenges continuing. - A city report highlighted the seventh annual River Prairie Ginormous Pumpkin Festival, the recent Design Wisconsin charrette, and the new city website going live the next day at noon with the old domain redirecting to the new .gov site. - Police Chief Kelly Bachen reported year-to-date calls for service down about 100, citations up about 50, warnings up just over 180, crashes up about 20, and non-traffic citations up about 40. He also described a probationary officer's wellness-program project, including a foundation donation that may fund nutrition coaching, personal training, yoga, biometrics testing, and family wellness; a presentation may come in late November. - A council member asked for more police presence on Highway 53 during rush hour; the chief agreed and noted crashes and construction complications, but cautioned that a traffic study could increase rather than reduce the speed limit. Discussion Items Library Grant Application - City staff reviewed the upcoming Non-State Grant Program: five state regions each allocated $10 million, a $2 million maximum award, and a 100% match requirement. Last year the library's Flexible Facilities grant application missed by one point. - Staff met with the library and design consultants to value-engineer the plan because the application deadline is the end of October. The library has roughly $500,000 in donated funds; a $4 million project could leave about a $1.5 million gap after grant matching. - A council member described the library's need for general space, private small-group/individual rooms for telehealth and online interviews, and a flexible larger programming/maker space. - The Council discussed the adjacent community room; it would remain a community/early-voting/programming space rather than being absorbed into the library expansion. - A motion to authorize city staff to submit the Non-State Grant Program application for the library carried by voice vote. East Neighborhood Development - Staff reviewed the history: property purchased 2020, East Neighborhood Plan RFP 2021, plan completed 2022, infrastructure work began, and development RFP in 2023 drew no serious interest until Cody/CNM Homes. - The microgrid study was concluded not feasible, especially after loss of federal incentives, though sustainability remains a stated goal. - The revised concept keeps the prior plan's character: commercial frontage, housing variety, a linear park that integrates stormwater, trails, vertical mixed use, and single-family homes toward the rear. An optional 10-acre heavy commercial/light industrial site at the corner was proposed to help finance infrastructure through a potential TID. - Council discussion included traffic and access concerns on Highway 12/County SS, sidewalk connectivity to the trail/school system, whether a TID would be used, and the risk that commercial space fills only with banks, as at River Prairie. The developer described a transparent partnership model and said the city would remain a partner/owner. - Affordable housing discussion: the developer proposed CrossMod/modular homes priced around $300,000. A council member said 'I don't believe that 300,000 is affordable housing'; the developer agreed it is not truly affordable but is significantly below Hillcrest's current $430,000-$440,000 new-home prices. The developer cited Habitat for Humanity funding stacks that could lower income-qualified buyers' costs. - A council member moved to direct staff to continue working on a partnership with CNM Homes and to prepare possible future council action on forming a TID, marketing the heavy commercial/light industrial site, and a development agreement. The motion was seconded and carried. Closed Session - The Council voted unanimously to enter closed session at 7:08 p.m. under Wis. Stats. 19.85(1)(e) to discuss a future fire station site. - After reconvening, it was reported that no action was taken; staff would continue exploring possible property acquisition for a fire station. Miscellaneous Business - A council member praised the Design Wisconsin presentation but called for broader community input, including a random survey, before considering changes such as Spooner Avenue/one-way street changes. Another council member relayed that the library director has heard parents like the slower traffic/four-way stop near the library. - A council member raised data centers as an emerging policy issue, using Menomonie as an example, and asked whether city code/zoning would govern such a use; no action was taken. - The final Wednesday concert at Four Seasons Park drew 180 people, above the roughly 120-130 average. Key Outcomes - Approved the September 11, 2025 regular council meeting minutes. - Approved the mayoral appointment to the Police and Fire Commission. - Authorized submission of the Non-State Grant Program application for the library. - Directed staff to continue East Neighborhood partnership discussions with CNM Homes, with future council action anticipated on TID formation, marketing the optional commercial/industrial site, and a partnership development agreement. - Entered and exited closed session on the future fire station site; no action taken, but staff will keep exploring a possible property acquisition. - Adjourned at 7:25 p.m.

The Altoona Budget Committee met Thursday, September 25, 2025, in the Council Chambers at Altoona City Hall for a scheduled 3:30 p.m. meeting to review the proposed 2026 water, sewer, and stormwater utility budgets. Staff presented water supply capacity, meter replacements, galvanized service replacement options, stormwater rate pressures, and the ongoing sewer billing dispute. Although the agenda included The Yard, that item was not presented. A quorum was present, and no formal votes were taken on the budgets. 2026 Utility Budget Overview - Finance Director Tina Nelson explained that utilities are enterprise funds, funded mostly by user fees rather than property taxes, and are budgeted based on estimated usage and revenue recognized when billed. - Water rates are regulated by the Public Service Commission (PSC); sewer and stormwater rates are set by the City Council and overseen by the DNR. - The proposed water utility budget is balanced, including about $2 million in charges for services, a payment in lieu of taxes of about $297,000 to the general fund, depreciation, and debt service. - The proposed sewer budget remains uncertain because of an unresolved billing dispute with the City of Eau Claire. - The proposed stormwater budget would apply $349,000 from reserves, which Finance Director Nelson said makes her nervous, and includes about $375,000 in revenue and $352,000 in depreciation/amortization. Water Supply and Sanitary Survey - Public Works Director Scott Quick presented the DNR sanitary survey results. The 2022 survey identified inadequate source capacity, driving construction of wells 8 and 9. - Current average day demand is 907,000 gallons per day; maximum day demand is about 1.781 million gallons per day. - Total well capacity is 1,645 gallons per minute, equal to about 2.368 million gallons per day. With the largest well out of service, firm capacity is 1,345 gallons per minute, about 1.9 million gallons per day. - Under DNR guidelines, average-day operation with firm capacity would run wells 11.2 hours per day, within the 12-hour guideline, but a maximum day would require running seven wells 22 hours per day, exceeding the 18-hour guideline. - Staff said one more well is needed; well 10 at Bartley Crossing is included in the budget and has a test well ready. Meter Replacement and Customer Technology - Utility Account Manager Lori Prudlich reported 261 total meter changes this year, including 41 new properties, 61 meters installed with deduct meters, and 200 change-outs. The city has over 5,000 meters. - The AMI network covers 4,134 meters; just under 1,000 meters still need to be added. There are 250 meters older than 2013 to replace, expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026, and 747 meters with updated meters but non-communicating reading devices, expected by mid-2027. - Staff reduced the meter replacement budget from $140,000 to $100,000 per year for the next five years because replacement meters are already in stock, saving about $500,000. - A new payment portal offers e-check payment for a flat $1.50, lower credit-card fees, auto-pay, billing history, and building-permit payments. - A future H2O analytics portal through PayStar will give customers one-click access to meter usage, history, and alerts. City staff are already using alerts to identify high usage, including a 145,000-gallon leak and several similar cases. Galvanized Water Service Replacement Program - Federal rules require replacement by 2036 of galvanized water services that were downstream of lead connectors or lead service lines. Staff identified 60 such services in Altoona. - Scott Quick presented three compliance options: requiring homeowners to replace at their own cost; using DNR safe-drinking-water loan funds with partial reimbursement, which is more costly because of prevailing wage and reporting requirements; or directly reimbursing a contractor, the recommended approach modeled on Eau Claire's program. - Eau Claire's local contractor has performed replacements for about $3,000 per service. The proposed program would budget $100,000 annually for two to three years, with half from the water utility and half from the general fund. Budget offsets would reduce pedestrian-safety funding from $50,000 to $25,000 and the curb/water service contract from $100,000 to $50,000 per year. - The replacement would be at no cost to the homeowner. An ordinance requiring replacements is expected to come forward, and staff discussed possibly reimbursing homeowners who already replaced qualifying services. - Councilmember Bruce Thielen suggested exploring whether Altoona could piggyback on Eau Claire's contract. Officials expressed support for avoiding a large financial burden on older homeowners and for improving compliance. Stormwater Rates - Stormwater utility rates are set by the Council and have not changed in 15 years. The current equivalent runoff unit (ERU) rate is $36 per year, compared with Eau Claire's $124 per year. - Staff explained that the utility was formed for total suspended solids reduction, the second planned pond was not built, and rates have been sustainable until recently because of increased assets, road projects, regional pond maintenance, and street sweeping. - A stormwater rate study by Trilogy was budgeted and will review rate structure, methodology, credits, and use of funds. It will not be ready in time for the 2026 budget; the rate will remain $36 until the study is complete and can be adjusted during the year. Sewer Treatment Dispute - The city's sewer is treated under a contract with Eau Claire and billed by volume. Tina Nelson said Altoona believes it has been overcharged and is paying only the undisputed portion while awaiting Eau Claire's response. - If the dispute is not resolved, next steps could include non-binding mediation, litigation, or submission to the PSC. Eau Claire could also change rates by the end of September, leaving the 2026 sewer budget uncertain. The Yard and Performance Reporting - Although the agenda listed The Yard, City Administrator Michael Golott said the Yard budget would not be presented separately because it is part of the general fund/parks budget. Year-end performance reports will show revenue and expenses for The Yard and similar operations. - Staff said reports would be generated annually and that some funds, such as Solar Circle and River Prairie Center, are tracked through monthly or year-end financial reporting. Key Outcomes - No motions or votes were taken on utility budgets; the committee discussed the proposals and adjourned by voice vote. - The next budget meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. to review the first draft of the general fund budget. - Next steps include completing meter replacements, bringing forward a galvanized-service replacement ordinance, conducting the stormwater rate study, resolving the Eau Claire sewer billing dispute, and considering well 10.

The City of Altoona Common Council convened on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Altoona City Hall. Mayor Brendan Pratt presided. Councilpersons present included Timothy Lima, Bruce Thielen, Matthew Beeran, and Susie Zilmer, with Councilperson Susan Rowe attending via Zoom. City staff included City Attorney Sam Bach Hansen, Assistant City Administrator Roy Atkinson, Director of Public Works Scott Quick, Planning Director Taylor Greenwell, and City Clerk Cindy Bauer. The council addressed the consent agenda, received a fiber network completion award from TDS, and unanimously approved two Certified Survey Maps (CSMs) for the Whitetail Woods subdivision. Consent Calendar - 2026 Special Charge for Recycling: The council unanimously approved the 2026 special charge for recycling. The fee increased by $1.00 compared to the prior year. Councilperson Matthew Beeran requested a follow-up on a previously discussed exploration of commercial recycling program options, and Director of Public Works Scott Quick agreed to revisit the matter. Public Comments & Testimony Citizens Participation Period: No members of the public presented comments. Public Hearings on Whitetail Woods CSMs: Two public hearings were held for the Certified Survey Maps. No public testimony was offered. Reports & Presentations - Administration & Parks Update: Assistant City Administrator Roy Atkinson reported that the Downtown River Prairie market is progressing with program development and potential future rentals. He promoted the upcoming UW Design Charrette stakeholder visioning session and announced that the 7th Annual River Prairie Ginormous Pumpkin Festival has raised over $27,000 in sponsorships. - Public Works Update: Director Scott Quick reported that 7th Street West is now open. The Pleasant/Otterburn project is progressing, with the first lift of pavement expected within a week. Fire department access is being maintained. He also thanked the council for attending the Help Workshop open house. - TDS Fiber Fest Community Award: Marcus Stabe, TDS Associate Manager of Field Marketing and an Altoona resident, presented the Fiber Fast Community Award to the council. He stated that TDS installed 55 miles of fiber, passing approximately 4,500 homes and businesses, providing up to 8-gig internet service. TDS expressed gratitude for the city's partnership during the construction process, which began in April 2023. Council discussed opportunities for joint trenching with TDS in new developments to streamline future fiber installation. Discussion Items - Whitetail Woods Subdivision – 5G Development 3-Lot CSM: Planning Director Taylor Greenwell introduced a request to divide Lot 3 of the Whitetail Woods Subdivision into three lots for a 12-unit building, a 24-unit building, and a second 24-unit building. The property is zoned R3. The Plan Commission unanimously recommended approval. The council voted unanimously to approve the CSM. - Whitetail Woods Subdivision – Grip Development 4-Lot CSM: The council considered a CSM to divide Lots 1 and 2 into four lots (20, 12, 8, and 16 units). Councilperson Beeran expressed concerns regarding traffic flow, the single entry/exit point, and school bus planning. Mark Erickson of Everyday Surveying Engineering noted that the Eau Claire County Highway Department had conducted a Traffic Impact Analysis showing a Level of Service B for the full build-out, that parking requirements are exceeded by the design (each unit has a two-car garage and driveway), and that the school district has been engaged. Councilperson Thielen noted that the development had already undergone extensive previous review by the Plan Commission and prior councils. The council voted unanimously to approve the CSM. - Miscellaneous – "Porch Light On" Initiative: Councilperson Beeran relayed a constituent suggestion encouraging a "Keep the Porch Light On" initiative to enhance safety through natural surveillance. Planning Director Greenwell stated that such principles are being considered as part of the ongoing zoning code update. Key Outcomes - Approved (Unanimously): Minutes of the August 28, 2025 regular council meeting. - Approved (Unanimously): Consent agenda item establishing the 2026 Special Charge for Recycling. - Received: TDS Fiber Fast Community Award, recognizing the completion of the city's fiber network. - Approved (Unanimously): Certified Survey Map for the 5G Development 3-lot division of Lot 3 of Whitetail Woods. - Approved (Unanimously): Certified Survey Map for the Grip Development 4-lot division of Lots 1 and 2 of Whitetail Woods. - Directive: Director of Public Works Scott Quick will follow up on commercial recycling program options. - Next Steps: The Planning Department will consider the "Porch Light On" community safety suggestion in the context of the zoning code update.

The Plan Commission of Altoona met on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 1303 Lynn Avenue, Altoona, WI. Chairperson Matthew Buren presided, with members Ryan Looty, Nicholas Hog, and Dean Roth present. Staff included Planning Director Taylor Greenwell, City Engineer Christian Hubert, and City Clerk Cindy Bauer. The commission reviewed two Certified Survey Maps and approved five site plans for the Whitetail Woods subdivision. Call to Order and Routine Matters - Roll call was taken; members absent were Mayor Brendan Pratt, Bill Heppner, and Sue Rowe. - No public comments were offered during the Citizens Participation Period. - The minutes of the August 19, 2025, regular meeting were approved (motion by Hog, second by Roth; Roth abstained). - No unfinished business was reported. Certified Survey Map – 3‑Lot Division (Item 1) - Staff presented a CSM to split Lot 3 of Whitetail Woods into three lots, planned for a 12‑unit and two 24‑unit multifamily buildings. The commission recommended approval to the City Council with staff conditions (motion by Roth, second by Hog; unanimously approved). A public hearing is set for September 11, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. Certified Survey Map – 4‑Lot Division (Item 2) - A CSM to consolidate and redivide Lots 1 and 2 into four lots, proposed for 20, 12, 8, and 16 units. Charlene Lynham (6780 Nine Mile Creek Road) addressed the commission, opposing the three‑story building heights planned for lots 1‑3, citing privacy concerns and neighborhood character. The commission recommended approval with staff conditions (motion by Roth, second by Hog; unanimous). The public hearing is set for September 11, 2025, at 6:05 p.m. Site Plan Approvals (Items 3–7) The commission approved five site plans for multifamily buildings within the Whitetail Woods development. Each plan met all applicable code requirements; staff recommended approval with conditions. A commission member voiced ongoing concerns about the number of new apartments and potential impacts on local schools, but all votes were unanimous. - Item 3 – 12‑Unit Building (Lot 1 of 3‑Lot CSM): 32 ft height, 27 parking spaces (12 garage + 15 exterior). Approved. - Item 4 – 20‑Unit Townhome Development (Lot 1 of 4‑Lot CSM): Four buildings (two 6‑unit, two 4‑unit), 39 ft height, 60 parking spaces (40 garage + 20 exterior). Approved. - Item 5 – 12‑Unit Townhome Development (Lot 2 of 4‑Lot CSM): Three 4‑unit buildings. Approved. - Item 6 – 8‑Unit Townhome Development (Lot 3 of 4‑Lot CSM): Two 4‑unit buildings. Approved. - Item 7 – 16‑Unit Multifamily Building (Lot 4 of 4‑Lot CSM): 32 ft height, 32 parking spaces (16 garage + 16 exterior). Approved. Conditions on the site plans include material approvals, landscaping, stormwater management, and fire‑lane markings. One commission member noted continued opposition to the scale of apartment construction but acknowledged that the proposals complied with city ordinances. Other Business - Planning Director Greenwell announced a community charrette (visioning workshop) on Friday and Saturday, September 12‑13, facilitated by UW‑Extension. Several commission members indicated their intent to attend. Key Outcomes - The Plan Commission recommended approval of two CSMs to the City Council, with public hearings scheduled for September 11, 2025. - Five site plans were approved, authorizing a total of 68 new residential units (12+20+12+8+16) in the Whitetail Woods subdivision. - All actions were approved unanimously, with one member expressing reservations but voting in favor.

The Altoona City Council met on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting covered updates on the zoning code, affordable housing programs, police department initiatives, and new business including a solar investment project, fire inspection ordinance changes, a transportation grant resolution, and a wastewater system repair contract. Several items were approved unanimously. Reports - City Administrator Mike Golot reported that the zoning code update is 90% complete, with a final draft expected by the end of October or November. He also discussed building a stakeholder list for future planning projects and announced a downtown design charrette on September 12–13, 2025, led by UW Extension. - Grant and Housing Program Manager Julian Emerson provided an update on the Affordable Housing Fund. Planned programs include a home repair revolving loan fund (critical repairs, energy efficiency, yard cleanup, and possibly home remodeling), with a partnership with Habitat for Humanity expected to reduce administrative costs. He also noted that the 80-acre development on the eastern edge is proceeding without drawing from the affordable housing fund. - Police Chief Kelly Bachin presented year-to-date statistics: calls for service at 2,431 (down from 2,514 last year), traffic citations at 810 (up from 720), and crashes at 151 (up from 127). She highlighted the success of the CSO program, which helped fill a recent full-time vacancy. Officer Noah Baumgarten then presented his probationary project to remove inoperable vehicles through partnerships with Vehicles for Veterans and Wheels for Wishes, at no cost to owners. The council encouraged promoting this program. Discussion Items - Lake Altoona Delta Dredge Project Update – Michele Skinner, Lake District Chair, presented plans for a major dredge project, coordinated with Eau Claire County dam repairs. A drawdown of about 8 feet is planned starting mid-September 2026, ending by late September 2026, with the lake kept low until March 1, 2027. This will affect ice fishing and late-season boating. No city funding is requested; the Lake District will cover costs. The council was informed for awareness. - Solar Infrastructure Investment Project – Following an RFP issued after the previous meeting, staff recommended awarding the contract to Olson Solar for $268,000 (compared to a prior quote of $616,000). The system includes 30-year panel warranty, 25-year inverter warranty, and an estimated 10–12 year payback. The council approved the contract and authorized a budget amendment from general fund reserves. - Ordinance 8C-25 – Fire Prevention Code Amendment – Fire Chief Mark Renderman requested reducing fire inspections from twice per year to once per year for most occupancies, as recommended by a fire study. The change is expected to reduce inspections by about 500 annually. The council approved the ordinance. - Resolution 8A-25 – WisDOT TAP Grant Support – The council approved a resolution supporting a grant application for the Spooner Pedestrian Bridge replacement. The grant would cover 80% of costs; the city would be responsible for 20% (estimated $160,000). Partnerships include Eau Claire County and the school district. - Kewin St POWTS Repair and Upgrade Contract – The council awarded the contract to Stolt Excavating and Trucking for $69,000 to replace the failing drip-line drain field with a conventional system and add SCADA monitoring. The system serves 13 homes and is expected to last decades. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of the August 14, 2025 council meeting. - Approved a motion to award the solar contract to Olson Solar (unanimous). A budget amendment for financing will be presented later. - Approved Ordinance 8C-25 reducing fire inspection frequency (unanimous). - Approved Resolution 8A-25 supporting the TAP grant application (unanimous). - Approved awarding the POWTS repair contract to Stolt Excavating for $69,000 (unanimous). - Council was briefed on the Lake Altoona dredge plan; no action required. - City Administrator noted the next public workshop will be on Thursday, September 4, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at City Hall.