Public Meetings - Appleton, Wisconsin

The Appleton Common Council met on April 17, 2024, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included proclamations, a sidewalk poetry presentation, presentation of the Housing Development Policy Guide, a public hearing on a rezoning, and approval of various committee recommendations. Three items were pulled from the consent agenda for separate discussion and votes. Proclamations and Presentations - Mayor presented proclamations for Golden Rule Day, Autism Acceptance Month, Library Week, Arbor Day, Earth Day, Public Health Week, and Hemophilia Awareness Day. - Sidewalk Poetry Project: Over 150 poems were submitted, and five winners were selected. Four winning poets read their poems to the council. - Housing Development Policy Guide: Mayor and Director Holman presented the guide, which includes recommendations in five thematic areas. The council received and filed the report after a motion by Alder Fenton, seconded by Alder Hartzheim. Public Hearing: Rezoning 2-24 (E. Plank Road) - Public hearing on rezoning from R1-A Single-Family to R-3 Multi-Family District. - Supporting speakers: Jennifer Sunstrom (Realtors Association of Northeast Wisconsin) expressed full support for the rezoning as workforce housing and praised the housing task force. Eric Broden (Fox Cities Chamber Regional Partnership) supported the rezoning, stating workforce is the top issue for businesses and that every housing project helps. - Opposing speaker: Carol Schubert (neighbor, 1912 Orchard Blossom Drive) spoke on behalf of herself and 30+ neighbors. She argued the project is for retirement condominiums, not workforce housing, and criticized the process as lacking transparency. She requested the council consider rejecting the rezoning or improving future processes. - After the hearing, the item was pulled for discussion. Discussion Items (Pulled from Consent) - Rezoning 2-24 (item 24-0317): Director Holman explained that the decision is about appropriate zoning, not specific future use. City Attorney Barrens cautioned against contract zoning based on representations. Alder Van Zieland conveyed on behalf of absent Alder Doran that he believes the rezoning meets legal obligations and that concerns about runoff, noise, traffic are not considerations for rezoning. The council voted 13-0-1 (Alder Hefferin abstained) to approve. - Street Occupancy Permit (item 24-0391): For the Boldt Company's Trout Museum of Art/Lawrence University project on College Avenue, Drew Street, and Kimball Alley through November 1, 2024. Director Block stated that weekend street reopening was not feasible due to construction impacts. Council approved 14-0. Alder Alfheim raised communication concerns with residents. - Firehouse Sub Grant (item 24-0379): Chief Hansen explained the grant funds McGrath video laryngoscopes for paramedic upgrades. Council approved 14-0. The mayor thanked the department for pursuing grants. Consent Calendar (Balance of Agenda) The remaining committee recommendations were approved as a block (14-0), including: - Municipal Services: Parking change on Maple Street (removal of 2-hour parking after six-month evaluation). - Safety and Licensing: Urban Search and Rescue agreement (2024-2026), and "Class A" liquor license for True North Energy d/b/a True North 822. - City Plan Commission: Lumbini Estates Preliminary Plat (recommended by Plan Commission). - Parks and Recreation: Award of 2024 Highview Park Playground contract to Lee Recreation. - Finance: Award of Unit H-24 parking ramp repair contract to Berglund Construction ($1,356,000 + 2.2% contingency, total not to exceed $1,386,000). - Board of Health: Noise variance for sanitary and storm sewer CIPP liner (Unit O-24). Key Outcomes - Rezoning 2-24 approved (13-0-1). - Street occupancy permit approved (14-0). - Firehouse sub grant accepted (14-0). - Housing Development Policy Guide received and filed. - Ordinances 19-24 and 20-24 approved (14-0). - All remaining consent agenda items approved.

The Appleton Common Council held its 2024 organizational meeting on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. Alderperson Doran was excused; Alderperson Heffman arrived after the first votes. The council acted on proposed rule changes, department and committee functions, the code of conduct, committee appointments, officer elections, and the 2024-2025 meeting schedule. Council Rule Changes - Item 24-0456 (Rule 3, invocation): Approved 13-0. Alder Hartzheim clarified he did not write the other two invocation scripts shown and urged colleagues to keep invocations within the spirit of the practice rather than grandstanding. - Item 24-0457 (Rule 19, petitions and resolutions): Approved 13-0. - Item 24-0436 (Rule 32, continuity of government): Failed 2-12. Alder Hartzheim objected to secret voting in council business; Alder Meltzer also encouraged defeat. - Item 24-0458 (Rule 35, Pledge of Allegiance language limiting the pledge to council chambers): Approved 11-3. Alder Van Zieland said she could not in good conscience continue the pledge as practiced because of difficulty doing it respectfully with people entering and leaving; Alder Schultz said he did not think the pledge was necessary at every committee meeting and that it could challenge the respect it deserved. The chair clarified the vote was only on the location-language change. - Item 24-0426 (Rule 35 deletion): Failed on a tie vote. Alder Fenton supported deletion, saying the one-year trial had proven awkward and was not a way to show respect; Alder Hartzheim opposed deletion, saying the pledge focuses each meeting; Alder Meltzer said requiring the pledge repeatedly could cheapen the oath; Alder Wolfe said he preferred action on veteran issues over symbolic gestures. - Remaining council rules: Approved 14-0. Department and Committee Functions - Item 24-0210 (Resolution 2-R24, consolidating Utilities Committee with Municipal Services): Failed. Alder Meltzer argued the consolidation lacked foresight, would not do justice to utility ratepayers, and raised transparency concerns; Alder Alfheim said staff had made clear it would not help them. - Item 24-0424 (Community and Economic Development department name change): Approved unanimously. - Item 24-0438 (Parks, Recreation and Facilities Management department name change): Approved 14-0. - Item 24-0428 (remaining department and committee functions): Approved 14-0, incorporating the two preceding name changes. - Item 24-0429 (Code of Conduct): Read aloud and affirmed 14-0. The code includes treating everyone with respect, being honest, listening with an open mind, and acting on behalf of constituents. Committee Appointments and Elections - Appointment of committees and committee chairs: Approved; the mayor thanked members for their preferences. - Common Council President: Alder Ferkus declined a nomination. Alder Van Zieland was nominated, seconded, and re-elected without a ballot. - Common Council Vice President: Alder Ferkus and Alder Meltzer were nominated; after statements, a secret ballot elected Alder Meltzer. - City Plan Commission representative: Alder Hartzheim and Alder Fenton were nominated; after statements, a non-secret ballot re-elected Alder Fenton. Alder Fenton cited the housing task force and the need to watch housing growth in Appleton. Other Council Business - Item 24-0448 (meeting schedule): Approved 14-0, canceling the Common Council meetings scheduled for July 3, 2024, and January 1, 2025. - The organizational meeting adjourned, with the regular Common Council meeting to follow at 7 p.m. Key Outcomes - Approved rule changes for the invocation, petitions/resolutions, and Pledge location language; rejected secret continuity-of-government voting and rejected deleting Rule 35. - Rejected the Utilities/Municipal Services consolidation; approved department name changes and affirmed the Code of Conduct. - Re-elected Alder Van Zieland as Council President, elected Alder Meltzer as Council Vice President, and re-elected Alder Fenton to the City Plan Commission. - Approved cancellation of the July 3, 2024, and January 1, 2025, Common Council meetings.

The Appleton Common Council held an informal organizational meeting on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at 6:00 PM (Central) to discuss proposed changes to council rules, committee structures, and department names. No formal votes were taken; the meeting served as a discussion forum ahead of the formal organizational meeting scheduled for April 17, 2024. Discussion Items - Invocation Rule Change (Proposed by Alder Fenton): Alder Fenton proposed returning to an open invocation format (allowing alders to deliver a personal invocation up to two minutes, not related to any action item on the agenda). Alder Hartzheim expressed concern about the definition of invocation (calling on a higher power) and potential for political statements. Alder Meltzer supported restoring free speech and noted the template approach was unsatisfying. Alder Ferkas suggested limiting each alder to two invocations per year, and Alder Van Zieland proposed that if no one signs up, a template or moment of silence be used. The body generally coalesced around Fenton's proposal as amended by Ferkas and Van Zieland, with a two-minute time limit and no action-item content. Alder Alfheim favored a moment of silence as a fallback. Alder Hartzheim submitted three template options (including the existing "We Gather Together" and two others) for potential use. The consensus was to adopt Fenton's proposal with amendments, and to keep templates as optional resources. - Pledge of Allegiance at Committee Meetings (Proposed by Alder Fenton): Alder Fenton proposed removing the requirement to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at committee meetings, citing repetition (up to three times on Wednesdays) and loss of meaning. Opponents (Alder Hartzheim, Alder Crowe, Alder Alfheim) argued it never loses meaning and that constituents support keeping it. Alder Schultz noted the pledge can be awkward in rooms without a flag. Alder Jones felt the rule was originally added to call out a specific alder, not in good faith. Several alders (Hayden, Sievers) acknowledged optics but supported removal. Alder Wolf suggested better pacing when reciting. Alder Hartzheim and Alder Crowe pushed to keep it. No clear consensus; will be voted on at formal meeting. Alder Alfheim suggested adding a flag to the back of the room. - Dress Code (Proposed by Alder Hartzheim): Alder Hartzheim proposed a rule requiring business casual attire at meetings. Many alders opposed: Alder Jones worried about policing and privilege; Alder Crowe noted difficulty defining acceptable attire; Alder Meltzer raised concerns about medical needs and coming directly from work; Alder Alfheim noted cost and lack of access. Alder Van Zieland said constituents should judge. No support emerged; Alder Hartzheim still wants a vote. - Council Meeting Start Time (Alder Wolf): Alder Wolf suggested moving council meetings from 7:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Several alders (Fenton, Hartzheim, Crowe, Van Zieland) opposed due to conflicts with work schedules and citizen availability. Alder Wolf withdrew the suggestion. - Resolution Co-Sponsor Requirement (Alder Van Zieland): Alder Van Zieland raised the idea of requiring at least one co-sponsor for resolutions. Alder Hartzheim opposed as curtailing free speech; Alder Schultz noted it's good practice but not necessary; Alder Wolfe and Alder Meltzer expressed concerns about limiting representation. Alder Van Zieland dropped the idea. - Summary Requirement for Resolutions (Alder Crowe): Alder Crowe proposed requiring all petitions and resolutions to include a summary statement. Some opposition (Alder Wolf) for very short resolutions. Alder Meltzer suggested specifying length. The body generally agreed to amend Rule 19 to change "may include a summary" to "shall include a summary." Will be voted on. - Consolidation of Utilities Committee with Municipal Services (Resolution by Alder Doran): Alder Doran (absent) proposed merging the Utilities Committee into Municipal Services. Alder Hartzheim supported for efficiency; Alder Alfheim asked staff for input. Director Block and Utilities Director Chris noted that meetings are canceled when no agenda, so no time savings, and that standalone meetings provide transparency for complex utility issues. Alder Meltzer argued the committee does not waste time and consolidation would reduce public input. Alder Van Zieland read Alder Doran's comments and added that utilities serve beyond Appleton. Alder Jones warned that Municipal Services meetings are already long. Alder Heffernan asked if the proposal originated from constituents (it did not). The body appeared opposed. - Department Name Changes: - Community and Economic Development to Community Development (Director Holman): Proposed to simplify and reflect current structure (includes inspections, assessor). Alder Hartzheim feared losing economic development focus; Director Holman assured economic development remains a priority. No cost; brand update scheduled. Alder Meltzer supported as modern. Alder Van Zieland saw no issue. Will be voted on. - Parks, Recreation, Facilities Management to Park and Recreation (Director Gaza): Proposed to streamline name, matching the committee. Facilities Management becomes a division. Alder Crowe noted facilities management's importance but accepted it's internal. No cost. Supported. - Committee Schedule Adjustments: Alder Schultz raised the possibility of reverting committee meeting times (e.g., Parks and Rec moved from 6:30 to 6:15 PM). Alder Van Zieland preferred reverting to previous times. Staff clarified that committee chairs can set times. Discussion deferred to committee meetings. Key Outcomes - Consensus to adopt Alder Fenton's invocation proposal as amended (two minutes, no action items, limit of two invocations per alder per year, template or moment of silence if none sign up). Will be formalized at April 17 meeting. - Agreement to amend Rule 19 to require a summary on all petitions/resolutions. Will be voted on. - Alder Wolf withdrew the 6:00 PM start time proposal. - Alder Van Zieland withdrew the co-sponsor requirement idea. - No consensus on Pledge of Allegiance or dress code; both will be voted on at the formal meeting. - Opposition to consolidating Utilities Committee with Municipal Services; resolution likely to fail. - Support for department name changes (Community Development and Park and Recreation). - The formal organizational meeting will be held April 17, 2024, beginning at 7:00 PM, immediately followed by a regular council meeting.

The Appleton Common Council met on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. The meeting included invocation, pledge, roll call, and approval of board reappointments. The mayor reported on city branding changes and winter storm response. Public speakers addressed a denied bartender's license. A public hearing on rezoning had no speakers. The council debated and voted on several agenda items, including operator licenses, a complete streets policy, and ARPA fund allocations. Consent Calendar - Approved a slate of board and commission reappointments without dissent. Public Comments & Testimony - Isaiah Nettles (1736 N Gillette St) appealed the denial of his bartender's license, stating he has changed and needs it to remain a manager at Glass Nickel. He asked for reconsideration. - Stacy (927 Caroline St), owner of Glass Nickel Appleton, supported Nettles, praising his performance and requesting the council reconsider the denial. Public Hearings - 24-0302: Public hearing for rezoning 124207 N Green Bay Road from R2 to R1B. No speakers; hearing closed. Discussion Items - City Branding Update: Mayor announced a return to the city seal as logo to save costs, with phased rollout; police and fire will be separate. Website redesign ongoing. - Winter Storm Response: Mayor reported 2,700 power outages, city department response, and charging stations at Schig Center and Reed Golf Course. No overnight shelter anticipated. - Refer Back Motion (24-0327): Alder Crote moved to refer operator license for Miguel Hilke back to committee. Alder Wolf objected. After debate, the objection failed (8 ayes, requiring 2/3), and the item was referred back. - 24-0314 (Operator License – Isaiah Nettles): Committee recommended denial. Council discussed statutory limits and the applicant's effort. Motion to approve failed 13-1 (1 abstention), upholding denial. - 24-0338 (Complete Streets Policy): After discussion on equity scoring, approved 14-0. - 23-0359 (ARPA Transfers for Library): Approved 13-1. - 24-0352 (ARPA MOUs): Debate on affordable housing at transit center and other projects. Motion passed 12-1. - Remaining Agenda and Ordinances: Approved 13-0. Key Outcomes - Denial Sustained: Operator license for Isaiah Nettles denied (13-1-1). - Complete Streets Policy Adopted (14-0). - ARPA Funds Allocated to Library (13-1). - ARPA MOUs Approved (12-1) - Item 24-0327 Referred Back to Committee. - Farewell: Alder Tyson and Alder Del Toro recognized for their service.

The Appleton Common Council met on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. Mayor Jake Woodford called the meeting to order with 16 alderpersons present. The meeting included public participation, discussion on several key items, and votes on a street occupancy permit, a native landscape management contract, a development incentive agreement for U.S. Venture, and a reconsideration of yard waste site hours. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the March 6, 2024 meeting (15-0-1). - Approved multiple routine items from committee reports including: - Installation of all-way stop at Capitol Drive and Conkey Street. - Parking change on Drew Street north of North Street. - Temporary street occupancy permit for Rise Apartment construction. - Annual street occupancy permit for RYE Restaurant's window planter box (subject to separate vote below). - Municipal Code revisions regarding alarm fees. - Various liquor and tobacco license applications (Thapa Petroleum, Meade Street Bistro, Aldi 86 and 68, Antojitos Mexicanos, Appleton Axe, and vaping device retailers). - Award of Unit G-24 Southpoint Commerce Park contract to Carl Bowers & Sons Inc. ($2,366,282.52 total). - Maintenance of current selling prices for business/industrial park land. - 2023 Annual Stormwater Report to DNR. - Award of 2024 Ash Tree Removal Contract to Foley's Tree Service, LLC ($375,000). - Award of Appleton Water Treatment Facility Clearwell Repairs to August Winter and Sons, Inc. ($290,400 total). - Environmental Health Pool Fees. - Amendment to Rodent Control Article III. The balance of the agenda was approved 15-0 after separate items were addressed. Public Comments & Testimony - Rye Restaurant Planter Box (Item 24-0279): Danielle Weyenberg and Nathan Weyenberg (310 W College Ave) spoke against the planter box, stating it is a hazard for visually impaired pedestrians, violates ADA protrusion limits (4 inches vs. 12 inches), and conflicts with city code. Nick Morse (owner of Rye) and Mackenzie Vandenberg (general manager) spoke in favor, noting they were unaware of ADA issues, have taken immediate action to remediate, and have maintained the box since 2016 without incidents. They requested approval to work with the city on a compliant solution. - U.S. Venture Development Agreement (Item 24-0269): Jennifer Stephany (Appleton Downtown Incorporated), Mercedes Bereza (VP Marketing, U.S. Venture), and James Fenlon (Director of Planning, U.S. Venture) expressed strong support. They highlighted the $40 million investment, retention of 650 employees, increased assessed value from $13 million to nearly $30 million, activation of additional lots, parking utility benefits, and alignment with downtown revitalization. Discussion Items - Rye Restaurant Street Occupancy Permit: Alder Van Zeeland moved to amend the permit to require modifications making the planter box ADA compliant. The amendment passed 15-0. The permit as amended was approved 13-2, with Alders Meltzer and Wolff opposed. Discussion included ensuring compliance within 30-60 days and the planter overhanging approximately 4 inches into the right-of-way. - K-24 Native Landscape Management Contract (NES Ecological Services, $192,345.12): Alder Del Toro spoke against the contract, citing glyphosate use as a carcinogen and urging a shift away from business-as-usual. Other alderpersons (Meltzer, Schultz, Hayden, Fenton) acknowledged concerns but noted lack of immediate alternatives, staff expertise, and integrated pest management. The contract was approved 11-4, with Alders Siebers, Del Toro, Schultz, and Wolff opposing. - Development Incentive Agreement with USV 222, LLC (222 W. College Avenue): The council went into closed session (15-0) at 7:52 PM to discuss purchasing of public properties and public fund investment for the U.S. Venture project. They reconvened at 8:33 PM. Discussion focused on the pay-as-you-go TIF structure (no financial risk to city, 90% of incremental revenue passed through), parking lot acquisition (not viable due to budget constraints), and economic multiplier effects. Alder Doran voted no, citing a desire to explore purchasing parking lots to avoid impacting other taxing entities; others emphasized the $40 million investment and zero new city spending. The agreement was approved 14-1, with Alder Doran opposed. - Reconsideration of Yard Waste Site Hours (Item 24-0214): The council voted 13-2 (Alders Del Toro and Thyssen opposed) to reconsider the item after a previous tie vote (6-6 on March 6). An amendment by Alder Meltzer to add winter Saturday hours at Glendale (last Saturday of November, January, February, March) failed 3-12. The original proposal (reducing hours at Glendale and Whitman sites, eliminating Saturday service in winter) was approved 14-1 (Alder Meltzer opposed). Staff noted the change frees employees for snow plowing, with only 1-2 yard waste customers on winter weekends. Key Outcomes - Streets and Permits: - Rye Restaurant annual street occupancy permit approved as amended with ADA compliance requirement (13-2). - Contracts and Awards: - Native landscape management contract with NES Ecological Services approved ($192,345.12) (11-4). - Unit G-24 Southpoint Commerce Park contract awarded to Carl Bowers & Sons Inc. ($2,366,282.52) (consent). - Ash tree removal contract awarded to Foley's Tree Service LLC ($375,000) (consent). - Water treatment facility clearwell repairs awarded to August Winter and Sons, Inc. ($290,400) (consent). - Economic Development: - Development incentive agreement with USV 222, LLC approved (14-1). - Yard Waste Operations: - Modified hours of operation at Glendale and Whitman Yard Waste Sites approved (14-1) after reconsideration. - Resolutions Referred: - Two resolutions submitted by Alders Del Toro, Meltzer, and Schultz were referred to staff: Environmental Education Resolution (3-R-24) and Sustainable Use of Pesticides Resolution (4-R-24).

This was a simulated Common Council meeting held as part of the City of Appleton's Citizens Academy. The primary agenda item was a proposal for a 75-foot Ferris wheel in Houdini Plaza, presented by Mr. Fun of Fun in Appleton Inc. The council heard public testimony, debated the proposal, and ultimately voted to deny it. Consent Calendar - Approval of previous meeting minutes: Motion passed 11-0 without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Vicky (1421 North Alvin Street, Appleton) expressed full support for the Ferris wheel, stating it would bring excitement for both children and adults, liven up the area, and generate revenue, provided proper safety mechanisms are in place. - Cassidy Lewis (Kimberly Ave, Kimberly) voiced support, saying the Ferris wheel would add liveliness to the community. - Penny Johnson (2625 Brookdale Court, Appleton) liked the idea overall but expressed two main concerns: (1) the size might crowd Houdini Plaza and suggested Memorial Park as an alternative location, and (2) the high cost raised questions about funding. - Mr. Fun (representing Fun in Appleton Inc.) presented the proposal: a 75-foot Ferris wheel costing $1,050,000, with his company committing $300,000 toward marketing and fundraising. The city would own and maintain the wheel on city property. User fees would be charged, with 25% of revenue returning to the city, and he estimated at least $1 million in additional economic activity. He urged council support. Discussion Items - District 1 Alder disclosed a personal relationship with Mr. Fun (stated they are related) and asked if they should recuse themselves. Attorney Glad advised that based on ethics statutes and a "smell test," it would be prudent to abstain from debate and voting; the alder agreed to do so. - District 14 Alder opposed the proposal, citing the lack of a feasibility study and pro forma financial analysis. Major concerns included liability insurance costs, light pollution affecting nearby apartments, and the $1 million fundraising target given Appleton's budget shortfalls. - District 13 Alder advocated tabling the idea, noting recent community fatigue from raising $12 million for the library, ongoing insurance and lawsuit risks, and noise concerns for College Avenue residents. They suggested moving the Ferris wheel to a different location or even a zip line to the waterfront as a cheaper alternative. - District 7 Alder requested moving to closed session for further discussion. Attorney Glad advised against it, stating no statutory exception applied and the item was not properly noticed for closed session, making it a violation of the law. The request was not pursued. - District 11 Alder expressed concerns about the cost, city maintenance obligations, and the risk of the private corporation (Fun in Appleton Inc.) going out of business. However, they supported the Ferris wheel concept, envisioning it as a community draw during events like Mile of Music, and stated they couldn't think of a better way to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars. - District 15 Alder proposed alternatives such as a replica Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty, or a 75-foot Harry Houdini statue. The mayor noted these suggestions may not be germane to the current motion. - The mayor outlined options for the council: refer the item back to the Parks and Recreation Committee for further study (including feasibility, liability, light pollution, costs, location, and risks of private corporation longevity), or continue with the existing motion to deny. The mover (District 2) and seconder (District 9) of the motion to deny were given the opportunity to withdraw; the mover declined. Key Outcomes - Motion to deny the Houdini Plaza Ferris Wheel proposal passed 6-3. - Under council rules, the proposal cannot be reconsidered during this council session, but Mr. Fun was informed that a revised proposal could be brought back at a future meeting. - No further business was conducted; the meeting adjourned.

The Common Council of Appleton met on March 6, 2024, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, mayor's proclamations, two public hearings on infrastructure projects, and votes on several resolutions and committee reports. Key outcomes included the approval of two special resolutions for street and sewer work, failure of a motion to modify yard waste site hours, and approval of lighting updates. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Common Council Meeting Minutes of February 21, 2024 (11-0). - Confirmation of appointments (11-0). - Approval of the balance of the agenda (12-0), which included: - Street occupancy permit for Fox Commons City Center Plaza (College Avenue, ending May 15, 2024). - Class "B" Beer and "Class B" Liquor license for SG Petroleum LLC d/b/a Friends & Neighbors (148 S Walter Avenue). - Class "A" Beer and "Class A" Liquor license for Indianhead Oil Co LLC d/b/a Circle K 2746526 (1935 E Calumet St). - Acceptance of funding and budget amendment for a Kayak Launch at Telulah Park ($13,500 donations, $15,000 fund balance applied, $28,500 equipment). - Resolution for Worker's Compensation Self-Insurance. - Award of Unit B-24 Asphalt Pavement Reconstruction to MCC, Inc. (not to exceed $1,457,816.40). - Award of 2024 Highview Trail Project to MCC, Inc. (not to exceed $169,212.25). - Award of 2024 Telulah Pavilion Renovation Project to RJM Construction, LLC (not to exceed $121,150). - Authorization for a three-year contract with two one-year options to Running Inc. for Paratransit Services. - Authorization for a two-year contract with three one-year options to Lamers Bus Lines, Inc. for Downtown Appleton Trolley Service. Public Comments & Testimony Public Hearing 1 (24-0100) – Concrete Pavement, Driveway Aprons, Sidewalk Construction (Amethyst Dr and Clearfield Ct): - Gary Breezy (1606 S Perkins St) opposed the sidewalk installation, citing lack of driveways on the west side of Perkins Street and questioning the need for sidewalks leading to an industrial park. - Kevin Kirsner (corner of Charles & Perkins) opposed the sidewalk for similar reasons and questioned the sewer lateral assessment policy, noting he already has new plastic pipe to the property line. - Abel Miller (5636 N Amethyst Dr) expressed frustration that the project was delayed from 2023 to 2024, resulting in a $1,000 increase in assessment, and questioned why other areas were prioritized. - Bryan Hass (185 E Clearfield Lane) stated he received a written estimate of $7,975 from the city in 2021 before purchasing the property, but was recently informed the assessment would be nearly $20,000. He argued he was misinformed and that the discrepancy financially impacted his family. - Alex Perez (219 W Edgewood Dr) said the cost was unreasonable for a cul-de-sac with low traffic. Public Hearing 2 (24-0101) – Sanitary Laterals, Storm Laterals, and Storm Main (Perkins St and Morrison St): - Adam Katch (1527 N Morrison St) praised the wheel tax but suggested raising it to reduce special assessments, and recommended lowering the prime-plus-3% interest rate (currently 11.5%) for deferred payments. - Ken McKenzie (1901 N Morrison St) echoed concerns about high interest rates, criticized poor restoration of lawns after construction, requested more advance notice (1-2 weeks) before workers enter homes, and asked for clearer guidance on trash can placement and parking during construction. - Jan Dallman (1715 N Morrison St) expressed concern about asbestos in her basement and requested a city engineer to mark on the floor where asbestos removal is required to avoid repeat costs. She also asked if federal funds were available for the work. Discussion Items Yard Waste Site Hours Modification (24-0214): The proposal would modify hours at the Glendale and Whitman Yard Waste Sites, including elimination of winter weekend hours at Glendale. Several alderpersons (Meltzer, Schultz, Hayden) opposed the reduction, citing constituent concerns about weekend access, especially for working residents. Alderperson Fenton questioned whether special holiday hours could be added. Director Block noted that the sites average only 13 customers per winter weekend day and that dumpsters (which drove much of the usage) were removed in the previous year's budget. Alderperson Doran argued the reduction was justified based on low usage. After discussion, the motion to approve failed in a 6-6 tie vote. Lighting Updates near Walnut Street and College Avenue (24-0215): The council approved recommended lighting improvements. Alderperson Siebers expressed support and suggested also reviewing lighting on South State Street and Lawrence Street based on a police ride-along experience. The motion passed 12-0. Special Resolution 1-P-24 (24-0102) – Concrete Pavement, Driveway Aprons, Sidewalk Construction: During discussion, Director Block clarified that the Amethyst Drive project was delayed from 2023 due to budget constraints, and that the 2023 special assessment policy (75% assessment for R1 zoning) was applied to both Amethyst and Clearfield, rather than the 2024 policy (100% for new concrete). For Bryan Hass's property, the $7,975 estimate was for roadway only; the actual project includes 167 feet of sidewalk ($7,000) and a driveway apron ($2,460), partly explaining the higher cost. Alderperson Hayden expressed empathy for Hass but noted the need for consistency. The resolution was approved 11-0 with one abstention. Special Resolution 2-P-24 (24-0103) – Sanitary Laterals, Storm Laterals, and Storm Main: Discussion included notification procedures for accessing homes. Director Block stated that the contractor will provide more advanced notice and reschedule if needed. Alderperson Schultz queried the scope of work inside homes and was informed that a visual inspection of the lateral is required to identify infiltration and structural defects, and that the city coordinates with homeowners. In response to a question about federal funding, Director Block clarified that Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds are for water service lines (lead and galvanized), not sanitary laterals. The resolution was approved 12-0. Key Outcomes - Special Resolution 1-P-24 (Concrete Pavement/Sidewalks) – Approved (11-0, with 1 abstention). - Special Resolution 2-P-24 (Sanitary/Storm Laterals) – Approved (12-0). - Yard Waste Site Hours Modification – Failed (6-6 tie). The proposal will not take effect; existing hours remain. - Lighting Updates near Walnut Street and College Avenue – Approved (12-0). - Balance of Agenda – Approved (12-0), including all committee report items listed in the consent calendar.

The Appleton Common Council met on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers. Mayor Jake Woodford presided. 14 alderpersons were present, 1 excused (Hartzheim), and 1 absent (Del Toro). The council approved the previous meeting minutes, conducted separate votes on three agenda items, approved the remaining consent agenda, referred a resolution on committee consolidation to a future organizational meeting, and held a closed session regarding the U.S. Venture development project. Consent Calendar - Approval of the Common Council Meeting Minutes of February 7, 2024 (24-0177). - Preliminary Resolution 1-P-24 for Concrete Pavement, Driveway Aprons and Sidewalk Construction (24-0149). - Preliminary Resolution 2-P-24 for Sanitary Laterals, Storm Laterals and Storm Main Construction (24-0150). - Award of 2024 Materials Testing and Contaminated Soils Contract to Westwood Infrastructure, Inc. for up to $100,000 (24-0151). - Proposed Modifications to the Special Event Policy (24-0145). - Class B Beer / Class C Wine license for Apple Valley Pancake House Inc. (24-0086). - Class B Beer / Class C Wine license for Ototo LLC d/b/a Ototo Ramen (24-0091). - 2024 Secondhand Article License renewals (24-0094). - Class A Beer/Liquor license change of agent for Walgreens 12693 (24-0107). - Class A Beer/Liquor license change of agent for Ultimate Mart LLC d/b/a Pick N Save 123 (24-0173). - Award of 2024 Green Meadows Park Playground Equipment Project to Lee Recreation for up to $85,000 (24-0099). - Award of Phase II design and construction management services for Lutz Park shoreline redevelopment to AECOM for a total contract not to exceed $93,400 (24-0162). - Approval of Aquatic Program Fees and Charges Policy (24-0163). - Approval of Recreation Program Fee Waiver Policy (24-0164). - Approval of Pool Rental, Reservation, and General Use Policy (24-0165). - Partial refund of 2023 personal property taxes: Madra’s Cafe ($2,104.43), Timothy J Vosters DDS ($745.88), Compass Two, LLC ($56.88) (24-0133, 24-0134, 24-0135). - Finance Committee reports for Preliminary Resolutions 1-P-24 and 2-P-24 (24-0155, 24-0156). - Award of Unit DE-24 Sidewalk & Concrete Street Excavation Repairs to Al Dix Concrete Inc. for up to $901,850 (24-0157). - Award of Unit X-24 Water Reconstruction to Kruczek Construction Inc. for a total not to exceed $1,599,000 (24-0158). - Award of Unit Y-24 Lead & Galvanized Water Service Line Replacement to VanRite Plumbing Inc. for up to $524,896.87 (24-0159). - Award of Unit U-24 Lead & Galvanized Water Service Line Replacement to MRJ Inc. dba Joski Sewer for up to $611,302 (24-0160). - Award of Unit A-24 Concrete Paving to Vinton Construction Company for a total not to exceed $3,897,407.27 (24-0161). - Rejection of bids for Fire Station 1 and 6 HVAC Upgrades Project (24-0169). - Award of 2024 Water Plant HVAC Upgrades Project to Rohde Brothers, Inc. for a total not to exceed $887,700 (24-0170). - Budget carryover appropriation for Water Utility Fund (24-0171). - Award of Unit Z-24 Water Reconstruction to Advance Construction Inc. for a total not to exceed $990,663 (24-0172). - Creation of Lead Forensic Evidence Specialist position (24-0128). - BOTS Grant Acceptance Recommendation (24-0115). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak, and no oral comments were made during the public participation period. Discussion Items - 24-0126: AWWTP Sludge Piping and Digester Heat Exchanger Replacement – Alderperson Meltzer encouraged support. The council approved awarding the base bid with alternate bid to Rohde Brothers Inc. for $1,612,000 plus a 15% contingency of $241,800, for a total not to exceed $1,853,800. Vote: 13-0. - 24-0121: 2024 Peabody Park Trail Project – Alderperson Schultz separated the item and asked staff about the scope. Director Gaza confirmed the project redoes the existing trail (crushed aggregate) but does not include seawall work, which is a separate future project. The council approved awarding the contract to MCC, Inc. for $106,661.70 with a $20,000 contingency, total not to exceed $126,661.70. Vote: 13-0. - 23-1405: Resolution 12-R-23 – Closure of the Whitman Yard Waste Site – The Municipal Services Committee had recommended denial. Alderperson Schultz noted the staff recommendation to keep both sites open and asked about dual use of the Whitman site for storage; staff indicated they could discuss further. Alderperson Doran thanked staff for their work and noted the process yielded important operational improvements. The council voted on the resolution to close the site; the motion failed unanimously (13-0 against closure), meaning the Whitman Yard Waste Site will remain open. - Resolution Submitted by Alderperson Doran – Consolidate Utilities Committee with Municipal Services Committee – The resolution, which noted that since 2020 nearly 40% of 106 Utilities Committee meetings were canceled and average meeting length was 11 minutes, was presented. Per Council Rule 19 and past practice, the Mayor referred the resolution to the upcoming organizational meeting in April for further discussion. Key Outcomes - Approved (13-0): Sludge Piping and Digester Heat Exchanger Replacement contract award. - Approved (13-0): Peabody Park Trail Project contract award. - Failed (13-0 against closure): Resolution to close the Whitman Yard Waste Site (site remains open). - Approved (13-0): All remaining consent agenda items as a block. - Referred: Resolution to consolidate Utilities Committee with Municipal Services Committee – referred to the April organizational meeting. - Closed Session: The council entered closed session at 7:15 PM under Wis. Stat. §19.85(1)(e) to discuss the U.S. Venture development project. They reconvened into open session at 8:05 PM with no action taken, then adjourned.

The Appleton Common Council met on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, from 7:00 PM to 7:37 PM in the Council Chambers. Key actions included the approval of the new Utilities Director, a demonstration on the Stop the Bleed program, and the approval of an Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant resolution after a failed amendment. A resolution to study parking facility management was denied. Business Presented by the Mayor - Utilities Director Recommendation: Mayor Woodford recommended Chris Stempa as the new Utilities Director, citing 17 years of experience with the Appleton Department of Utilities. Stempa was approved unanimously (13-0). - Proclamations: The Council recognized Black History Month, Burn Awareness Week, and Go Red for Women. - AFD Stop the Bleed Demonstration: Lieutenant Ryan Lee provided an overview of the Stop the Bleed program and demonstrated the contents of newly installed bleeding control kits in city buildings, emphasizing their importance for life-threatening hemorrhages. Consent Calendar (Items Approved En Bloc) The following items were approved in a single motion (13-0) as part of the balance of the agenda: - Municipal Services Committee: Approval of a street occupancy permit for Boldt Company (Fox Commons) until July 1, 2024; an ice carving permit for Appleton Downtown Inc.; a sole source purchase for traffic equipment; and a single source contract with Star Protection and Patrol for parking ramp security services (not to exceed $57,000). - Parks and Recreation Committee: Award of a contract to ISG for Phase II design services for Lundgaard Park (not to exceed $71,500); adoption of revised rental fee schedules for Jones Park and Houdini Plaza. - Finance Committee: Award of Unit W-24 Sewer & Watermain Reconstruction contract ($2,989,994.96 total); approval of Change Order 1 for Project Z-23 Water Reconstruction ($335,035.04 increase, with budget amendment passed by 2/3 vote). - Community and Economic Development Committee: Approval of preliminary 2024-2025 CDBG Community Partner Allocations for non-public services; reallocation of $28,981.24 among public service applicants. - Utilities Committee: Sole source engineering contract to McMahon Associates for aeration process upgrades (not to exceed $72,240); award of final clarifier tank underdrain rehabilitation contract to Sabel Mechanical (not to exceed $51,073); sole source purchase of pumps and fittings from Quality Flow Systems (not to exceed $94,460). - Fox Cities Transit Commission: Purchase of access control for the Whitman Construction Project from Faith Technologies. Discussion Items - Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Resolution (24-0061): The proposal to apply $134,180 in grant funds to the Appleton Public Library building project for energy-efficient design sparked debate. - Amendment: Alderperson Hartzheim moved to amend the resolution to specify that the grant would not expand the library project scope and that taxpayer debt savings would be applied to other budgeted city projects. The amendment failed (2-11). - Original resolution: Alderperson Van Zeeland moved approval. The resolution passed (11-2), allowing the grant to be used for the library project to reduce the need for contingency funds. - Parking Facility & Management Study Resolution (23-1476): The resolution sought to authorize a study of the parking utility, including potential sale or lease of facilities. - Amendment: Alderperson Doran moved to restore the original resolution language (including the sale/lease provision). The amendment failed (5-8). - Denial: Alderperson Fenton moved to deny the resolution. The motion carried (10-3, with one later correction), effectively killing the study. Key Outcomes - Passed: Appointment of Chris Stempa as Utilities Director (13-0). EECBG grant resolution (11-2). All consent calendar items (13-0). - Failed: Hartzheim amendment to EECBG resolution (2-11). Doran amendment to parking study resolution (5-8). - Denied: Parking Facility & Management Study resolution (10-3). - Other: The Council approved the previous meeting minutes (13-0). The meeting adjourned at 7:37 PM.