Public Meetings - Fitchburg, Wisconsin

On October 29, 2026, the Fitchburg Municipal Court held an evening arraignment session. The presiding judge explained the plea process, the city’s individualized justice philosophy, possible penalties, and the consequences of conviction. Several traffic, ordinance, and OWI citations were resolved through guilty or no-contest pleas. No agenda or minutes were available for this session. Court Procedures & Advisements - The judge explained three plea options: not guilty, guilty, and no contest. The city has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a trial. - For Wisconsin traffic convictions, demerit points may be assessed; accumulating 12 points can result in revocation of driving privileges. - OWI defendants were advised that they have the right to request a jury trial in Dane County Circuit Court rather than Fitchburg. - The judge stated that municipal court cannot enter a criminal conviction for city ordinances that parallel criminal offenses, but fines for those ordinances will not be reduced. - Unpaid fines may lead to an arrest warrant and jail time of up to 60 days, with a daily credit against the fine. The transcript is inconsistent about whether the credit is $50 or $100 per day. - The judge said each case would be considered individually, based on mitigating circumstances and the defendant’s prior record, except for alcohol- or drug-related offenses and parallel criminal-code ordinances. Cases Heard - Andrew Adenopoe entered a no-contest plea to failure to yield the right of way while making a left turn. The court reduced the fine from $108 to $78 and the points from 4 to 3. - Mustafa Chatter entered a no-contest plea to violating a yellow traffic control signal. The court imposed a $78 fine and 2 demerit points, noting the points could be removed if he had no further convictions. - Christopher Brozek pleaded guilty to violating a red traffic control signal. He said he already had 10 points and risked losing his license. The court convicted him, ordered a driver improvement class, and gave him two months to complete it. The fine was stated as $108, though the transcript also includes a reference to $98. - Faith Waffler entered a no-contest plea to failure to yield the right of way. The court reduced the fine to $78 and gave her a choice of 3 points or 40 hours of community service; she chose 3 points. - One defendant entered a no-contest plea to disorderly conduct and said the incident involved self-defense. The court imposed the fine of $323 without reduction, but invited the defendant to return if the conviction affected employment or education. - Alexis Roll entered a no-contest plea to disorderly conduct and was fined $323. - Tori Dockery entered a no-contest plea to disorderly conduct and was fined $323. - Felicia Chrisco entered a no-contest plea to shoplifting and was fined $449. The court arranged a payment plan of $40 per month with extensions every two months. - Daniel Palayo entered a no-contest plea to failure to keep a vehicle under control. The court imposed a $146 fine and convicted him. Palayo said his job as an automotive technician was at risk because he might not remain insurable; the judge said he would speak with him after sentencing. - Sebastian Taylor appeared under a special appearance related to a motion to reopen, but said he was not trying to reopen anything. The judge reviewed the record and concluded there was no pending reason for him to be in court, allowing him to leave. - Maria Zampolteca pleaded guilty to deviation from a designated lane and to operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of an intoxicant with a prohibited blood alcohol concentration. Her test result was 0.19. The judge noted there were no minors in the vehicle and no accident. The OWI penalties included a $1,046 fine, 8-month license revocation, mandatory assessment, 6 demerit points, and installation of an ignition interlock device for at least one year. The lane deviation citation was reduced to a $78 fine and 3 points. An interpreter was used for the proceedings. Key Outcomes - The court accepted multiple guilty and no-contest pleas, imposing fines, points, classes, and payment plans as described above. - No juvenile cases were called, and the court took a break after the adult calendar.

The Fitchburg Community Equity Advisory Committee met on October 26, 2026. It approved prior minutes, heard public opposition to a proposed 2026 police budget amendment for real-time information center technology, received a detailed police presentation, and postponed its recommendation until a special meeting before the council's November 10 consideration. Consent Calendar - Approved the September 23, 2026 meeting minutes. - Approved a temporary transition of chair duties to Chase so the chair could leave early. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment was offered for non-agenda items. - Two written comments from Ari Lowe and Kelly Jetzer opposed the RTIC budget amendment; the detailed emails were to be available for public viewing. - Chris Ungar expressed concern about privacy trade-offs and called for better guidelines governing the technology. - Ann Sawyer said the technology could help solve crime but warned about misuse, citing possible monitoring of gay bars, places of worship, reproductive care centers, political party headquarters, smoke shops, individuals, and ESL classes; she urged citizen oversight and regulation before large spending. Discussion Items - Capt. Drew McCarthy and Patrol Capt. Logan Brown presented the RTIC proposal. McCarthy said Fitchburg is about 12 officer positions short of the 1.8 officers per 1,000 residents benchmark, roughly 20% of the department, and likely 13-14 short by January 1; he said the city has 35 square miles, ranks last among 15 Wisconsin agencies serving 30,000-50,000 people, and faces 12-18 months to recruit and train an officer. - The RTIC package included cloud-based data analytics; drones as first responder (DFR); a camera-integration system with owner-controlled sharing; body and squad cameras with live translation; and Axon license plate readers (LPR). McCarthy said DFR aims to put eyes on scene within 60-120 seconds versus a 6-7 minute officer response and could clear some calls without an officer; up to three drones were proposed. - On LPR, McCarthy said the prior Flock system was removed earlier in the year over data-sharing concerns. He said Axon LPR would keep data agency-owned, require a case number and preselected reason for searches, restrict searches to detectives and above, retain data for 30 days, and use manual regional MOUs; immigration enforcement and most civil/traffic offenses would not be permitted uses. He cited the Pick 'n Save explosion and a September shooting as cases aided by camera/LPR technology. - Funding and timing: McCarthy said the $1.8 million figure includes already budgeted body cameras, squad cameras, and some tasers, with a lower additional ask; the Fitchburg Law Enforcement Foundation and private donors had committed several hundred thousand dollars, and grants would be pursued. A December 1 contract/pricing deadline was cited, with council action targeted for November 10, implementation not before April, and a one- to two-year proof-of-concept assessment. A committee member said the police chief redirected funding for a new officer position toward the technology, which could provide capacity equal to one to three officers as it rolls out. - Committee members raised concerns about the speed of the proposal, limited community engagement/listening sessions, trust and transparency, camera placement in marginalized areas, the lack of equity data or analysis, and whether Axon was the only vendor considered. One member asked that an equity analysis be included in the proof-of-concept assessment. A member noted the equity rubric did not fit a device procurement and that a failing score reflected information gaps rather than a definitive judgment on the program. - Alder Donald described the late referral to the committee, defended the budget context, and committed to meeting with police monthly or bi-monthly and reporting back to the committee. Police offered to provide references and data from other cities that have implemented similar technology. Key Outcomes - A motion to postpone the RTIC decision until the committee could meet again before November 10 passed by voice vote; the chair recorded ayes and no nays. - The committee planned to digest the presentation, identify gaps, and provide a statement or recommendation before the council's November 10 meeting. - Police agreed to consider or provide equity-related assessment data and references from other cities; implementation would not begin until April if approved. - Announcements included a District 3 listening session on October 29 from 6-8 p.m. at Fire Station 3, a housing pathway to homeownership event on November 15, and a note that the next regular meeting would not be November 25; a special session was to be scheduled. The meeting adjourned.

The Fitchburg Board of Public Works met on October 19, 2026, at 5:30 PM. The board approved several resolutions, including funding revisions for a pedestrian underpass, subdivision improvements, and a collateral assignment. The meeting also included updates from the Director of Public Works on fall recycling, water main flushing, and a major federal grant for Irish Lane improvements. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (October 5, 2026): Approved unanimously with an amendment correcting the start time from 6:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made, either in person or online. Discussion Items - Director of Public Works Report (Tim): - Fall Recycling Day: Scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 8-11 AM at 5520 Lacey Road. Residents may bring confidential paper (limit 3 grocery bags per household) and electronics (some fees may apply). Medication disposal not available. - Water Main Flushing: Originally planned to start this week through November 20, but delayed due to repairs at Camp Badger Reservoir. Expected to begin first week of November. Residents may experience temporary discolored water; advice to run cold tap and avoid laundry until clear. Contact 608-270-420 if discoloration persists. - Irish Lane Funding: City awarded $1,692,710 in federal construction funding through WisDOT's 2026-2031 Surface Transportation Program for improvements to Irish Lane (1.6 miles between S. Fish Hatchery Rd and S. Syene Rd), including pavement rehabilitation and bicycle lanes. Next step: execute state-municipal agreement. - Project Updates: - Wayland Road Pave Shoulder project: contractor finishing mailbox installation and small restoration; walkthrough scheduled for next week. - 2026 street resurfacing: Tower Hill remaining; Bellmar neighborhood paving to be completed this week (part of 2025 ARPA project). - 2026 sidewalk replacement: final assessment hearing on November 2, 2026 agenda. - Q&A: - Board member asked about leaf pile-up at drop-off site; Tim agreed to monitor. - Clarification on Bellmar completion: paving expected this week. - Street sweeping to occur prior to flushing. - Wayland Road expected to open this week or early next. - Inquiry about Russian diesel in city fuel: supplier reported diesel from Chicago terminal; board member noted likely Canadian crude, not Russian. - Action Item 6A – Postponement of Resolution R-178-26: - Resolution approving agreement for subdivision improvements for CESTA plat postponed to date uncertain because developer not ready. Motion by Don, second by Kim. Unanimous. - Action Item 6B – Resolution R-198-26 (County MM Pedestrian Underpass): - Approved revision to state-municipal agreement updating federal funding percentage from 60% to 80% for construction of the bike/pedestrian underpass under County Highway MM. Federal funding remains $432,000. The change allows eligibility for additional funding if available. Design is 100% locally funded. Board discussed at-grade crossings; underpass chosen for safety and grade constraints. Motion by Kim, second by Don. Unanimous. - Action Item 6C – Resolution R-199-26 (High Field Reserve Phase 6): - Accepted subdivision improvements for Phase 6 (lots 145-161, 99-108, outlots 10, 11, portions of 7 and 12). City engineer inspected and conditionally approved; punch list items addressed. Lien waivers pending but expected before next council meeting. Motion by Don, second by Dave. Unanimous. - Action Item 6D – Resolution R-204-26 (Terra Vesa Fifth Edition Collateral Assignment): - Approved collateral assignment of subdivision improvement agreement to One Community Bank as condition of developer's loan. The assignment does not put city at financial risk; only requires city to notify bank if developer defaults. Similar approvals for prior four phases. Motion by Kim, second by Don. Unanimous. - Action Item 6E – Resolution R-131-26 (Maple Lawn Heights / City on a Hill / Bowman Plaza): - Approved agreement for subdivision improvements on Lot 29 of Maple Lawn Heights and Lot 2 of CSM 555 (Bowman Plaza). The CSM divides lots for a church (City on a Hill) and a 252-unit multifamily development (Bowman Plaza). Discussion included: - Turn Lane Phasing: The left-turn lane on Fish Hatchery Road and southern driveway to Lot 1 will be constructed in Phase 2 (Bowman Plaza) even though Lot 1 is Phase 1. Existing left-turn lane does not align; Phase 1 access via Ochalla and easement through Kelly's Market. - Parkland Dedication: No on-site park proposed for 252 dwelling units. Board noted proximity to Hostahochi Park and Community Center, but crossing Post Road (5 lanes) was a concern. Parkland fee of $1,091,160 (based on 252 units at 2,900 sq ft per unit) is included. Minor text errors in document noted (square footage should be 730,800). - Pedestrian Connectivity: No dedicated path to connect to existing bike/pedestrian infrastructure; developer expressed unwillingness to coordinate with adjacent property owner for a trail to bus stop. Board expressed concern but approved. - Motion by Dave, second by Don. Unanimous. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Approvals: - Minutes of October 5, 2026 (with amendment). - Postponement of Resolution R-178-26 to date uncertain. - Resolution R-198-26 (County MM underpass funding revision). - Resolution R-199-26 (High Field Reserve Phase 6 improvements). - Resolution R-204-26 (Terra Vesa collateral assignment). - Resolution R-131-26 (Maple Lawn Heights/City on a Hill/Bowman Plaza improvements). - Next Meeting: Monday, November 2, 2026, at 5:30 PM. - Announcement: Comprehensive plan kickoff open house on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 5-7 PM at Hostahochi. - Adjournment: 6:17 PM.

The Finance Committee met on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, from 5:15 p.m. to 6:06 p.m. It approved prior meeting minutes, reviewed financial reports and bill lists, and acted on 2027 budget-related items. The proposed forestry fee drew public opposition and was referred to the Common Council without a committee recommendation. All other action resolutions were approved on voice votes with no audible opposition. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the September 22, 2026 Finance Committee meeting. - Approved the minutes of the September 29 and 30, 2026 special Finance Committee budget presentations. Finance Director’s Report - Treasurer’s reports for June and July 2026 were provided; the August 2026 report is expected at the next Finance Committee meeting. - The city completed an alternative CSLFRF/ARPA compliance examination with its external auditors because federal grant receipts did not require a single audit. The auditors reported no material findings and confirmed that the city followed ARPA rules. - The city has reported to the U.S. Treasury that ARPA grant proceeds are fully spent; remaining interest is expected to be spent this month or next, and Treasury acceptance of the final report is pending. - Budget process: the public hearing was scheduled for the Common Council meeting that evening; council amendments are due the next day at noon; amendments will be distributed late next week and discussed at the next Committee of the Whole. Review of Bills - Checks of $10,000 and above, September 16–30, 2026: $2,531,011.59. - All checks issued, checks 131316–131370, September 16–30, 2026: $2,606,648.50. - ACH payments, September 1–30, 2026: $736,859.73. - PCAR transactions, cycle ending August 6, 2026: $226,602.33. - No comments or questions were raised. Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public appearances: none. - Forestry fee (Ordinance 2026-O-30): David Halford spoke in opposition, arguing the fee is an unconstitutional property tax under the Wisconsin Supreme Court’s Buchanan ruling, bypasses property-tax levy limits and the voter referendum, and would lead to lawsuits. He cited a 142% increase in public forestry spending to $525,000, with $435,000 to be raised from more than 6,500 property owners through the fee. Patrick Shaney also spoke in opposition, calling the fee a tax, criticizing the council for appearing to have predetermined votes, and asking at least one committee member to vote no so the recommendation would not be unanimous. Discussion Items - Write-off of uncollectible accounts prior to June 30, 2020: The committee reviewed the annual bad-debt write-off list. Bill noted the spreadsheet showed a total of $103,000 versus $72,000 and asked why some accounts-receivable balances were smaller than bad-debt amounts. Finance Director Misty explained the different collection paths, including accounts returned by the State Department of Collections, and the journal entry used to write off the accounts through the allowance for bad debt. The write-off was then approved. - Ordinance 2026-O-30 – Forestry fee: After public comment, the committee decided not to take a final vote and referred the ordinance to the Common Council without a recommendation. - Resolution R-181-26 – Southdale Path: Tim presented the state municipal agreement for an off-street path from McCoy Road to Englehart/Inglehart Drive. The project is in the CIP for 2027 design and 2029 construction, with state funding covering 80% of construction costs; the local share is expected to come from TID 16. - Resolution R-186-26 – Equipment debt threshold: The resolution lowers the threshold for considering debt financing of routine equipment from $500,000 to $250,000 and adds the forestry fee as a levy fund for debt calculations. Staff clarified the threshold is an option, not a borrowing requirement. - Resolution R-187-26 – Elected official compensation: The resolution phases in compensation increases for mayor, alders, and municipal judge effective May 1, 2027, 2028, and 2029. Staff noted mayoral and alder salaries have been unchanged since 1997 and the judge’s salary since 2009. The mayor spoke in support, noting the mayoral increase takes effect in 2029 and he would not personally receive it. - Resolution R-190-26 – Kids’ Crossing playground: The committee approved the concept design and a $315,000 increase to the 2026 capital projects budget. Parks Manager Eric described public-comment-driven additions, including a zipline, shade structures, a nature-play area, and a dragonfly feature. Discussion covered surfacing and equipment lifespan, maintenance, accessible design, and donation opportunities. A member noted the project would be funded with borrowing, allowing future residents to help pay for it, and cited the city’s triple-A rating. - Resolution R-192-26 – 2027 solid waste rates: The committee approved rates of $240 per unit for approximately 6,700 homes served by the residential contract, up $4 from 2026, and $7.50 per unit for approximately 3,766 apartment/condominium units not on private streets, up $0.15. The 2027 service cost is approximately $1,833,000. Discussion included a reported $30,000 fuel-price contingency and a question about avoiding Russian-sourced diesel fuel; staff said they would check with the city’s fuel supplier. - Resolution R-194-26 – Traceway Leopold Path: Tim presented the state municipal agreement for a shared-use path along Traceway Drive and Post Road to Leopold Way. The project is in the CIP for 2028 design and 2030 construction, with state funding covering up to 80% of construction costs; the local match will be borrowed. - Resolution R-202-26 – GO promissory notes: The committee approved amending the parameters resolution to allow a true interest cost of up to 5.75% for the sale of up to $22,320,000 in Series 2026A general obligation promissory notes. The current modeled true interest cost was about 5.18% for a 20-year term. The sale is likely next week; the notes are callable in 10 years. Projects funded include the police facility, a road project, City Hall remodel, and Kids’ Crossing. Key Outcomes - Approved the September 22, 2026 minutes and the September 29–30, 2026 special budget presentation minutes. - Acknowledged the June and July 2026 treasurer’s reports and the ARPA compliance examination report. - Approved the write-off of uncollectible accounts prior to June 30, 2020. - Referred Ordinance 2026-O-30 (forestry fee) to the Common Council without a Finance Committee recommendation. - Approved Resolutions R-181-26, R-186-26, R-187-26, R-190-26, R-192-26, R-194-26, and R-202-26. - The next Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for October 27, 2026. The meeting adjourned at 6:06 p.m.

The committee met on October 13, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. and adjourned at 6:17 p.m. Members present: Alder Lepper, Vice Chair Elder Herbst, Chair Alder Reichstead. The meeting covered consent agenda items and several special event permit applications. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda, which included approval of minutes from September 22, 2026, a routine operator license report (one renewal and one new license), and sound permit applications. Prior to the vote, the Diwali festival application was discussed as part of the consent agenda. The consent agenda passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Diwali Festival (November 8, 2026): Sherma, chairman of the American Hindu Association, presented the fifth annual Diwali celebration. The event is scheduled for Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to approximately 9:00 p.m., with 10–12 minutes of fireworks. Estimated attendance is 250 people. The applicant requested use of Veterans Park for overflow parking, with a shuttle service every 10 minutes. A police officer will be hired from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. to manage traffic. Public Works approved parking at the public works facility. Police recommended no parking on the Diwali side of the street for visibility; the applicant agreed. Committee members expressed support for the event and its logistics. - 2026 Madison Walk to Defeat ALS (October 18, 2026): Audrey Cantac of the ALS Association presented the annual fundraiser walk at McKee Farms Park on Sunday, October 18, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to noon with amplified sound. The event includes a one-mile walk, silent auction, ADA accommodations, and a coffee truck. No changes from prior years. Approved unanimously. - Nine Bark at the Moon Block Party (October 24, 2026): Application for a residential neighborhood street use permit for the 5100 block of Nine Bark Drive on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (rain date October 25). No applicant appeared, but the recurring event has generated no complaints. Alder Herbst, a nearby resident, expressed no concerns. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously (3-0). - Special event permit for Madison Walk to Defeat ALS approved unanimously (3-0). - Residential street use permit for Nine Bark at the Moon Block Party approved unanimously (3-0). - During announcements, Alder Herbst noted a concern previously raised about the "Beer Run Walk" event (approved at an earlier meeting) regarding alcohol consumption and driving. No action was taken; the committee acknowledged the concern. - Next meeting scheduled for October 27, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.

The Fitchburg Common Council met on October 13, 2026, at 6:31 PM. The meeting included the adoption of the 2027 budget, a controversial forestry fee ordinance, several proclamations and awards, and multiple resolutions related to infrastructure, park improvements, and elected official compensation. Public comment was extensive, with many residents opposing the forestry fee and raising concerns about the budget process. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (excluding item 12) was approved unanimously. Item 12 (Resolution R-201-26, amending the 2026 budget for police real-time information center technology) was removed and referred to the Community and Equity Advisory Committee. Public Comments & Testimony - Budget Public Hearing (Resolution R-189-26): Multiple residents spoke against the forestry fee and the budget. - Patrick Cheney argued the forestry fee is a tax that bypasses the failed referendum, calling it an underhanded way to raise revenue. - David Hayde criticized TIF funding and the city's use of fund balances, stating $7 million was spent on pet projects. - Davy Harford claimed the forestry fee violates the Wisconsin Supreme Court's Buchanan ruling, calling it an illegal property tax. - Forestry Fee Ordinance (2026-0-30): Eight additional speakers registered in opposition, emphasizing regressive impacts, lack of low-income relief, and legal concerns. - Bill Humbert requested protections for low-income residents and retirees on Social Security. - Paul Roleski (Wisconsin Property Taxpayers) argued the fee is a tax in disguise, citing court precedents. - Daniel Villegas asked for a means-tested relief program similar to Madison MadCAP. - Rita Henrik questioned the fee's equity, why homeowners bear the brunt, and the lack of notice. - Aileen Keller urged maintaining current service levels and exploring alternatives before imposing a new fee. Discussion Items - Budget Survey Presentation: Alder Micah presented results from 571 responses. Key priorities were public safety, road maintenance, and snow removal. The 2027 draft budget allocates funding for two new firefighters, one police officer, EMS peak staffing, and an arborist position funded by the forestry fee. The survey also showed support for maintaining services and using new revenue over cuts. - Forestry Fee Ordinance: Deputy City Administrator Adam Sayer explained the fee is authorized under state statute 66.0628, modeled after Madison's fee, and would appear on utility bills starting Q2 2027. City Attorney Valerie provided legal opinion that the ordinance is authorized by statute, though it could be challenged. Council members debated the fee's regressive nature and impact on low-income residents. Alder Maldonado suggested exploring a low-income relief program. - Resolution R-202-26 (Bond Parameters): Greg from Ehlers explained the need to raise the true interest cost ceiling from 4.43% to 5.75% due to market conditions. Public commenter David Hayde questioned the legality and lack of detail. The resolution passed. - Resolution R-187-26 (Elected Official Compensation): Mayor Radafrata proposed increasing alder, mayor, and municipal judge salaries, noting no increase since 1997 (or 2009 for judge). The increase phases in over three years, with mayoral salary taking effect in 2029. Council members supported the increase to attract diverse candidates and reflect time commitment. Alder Herbs voted no. - Other Items: Approval of park fee ordinance (O-026), solid waste collection rates (deferred), sewer service agreement for DOC facility, Southdale Path grant, McKee Farms Park sign and splash pad maintenance (amended to remove sign replacement), and Kids Crossing playground replacement concept. Key Outcomes - Forestry Fee Ordinance (2026-0-30): Passed 8-0 (with amendment to take effect the later of publication or January 1, 2027). Council will explore a low-income relief program. - Resolution R-202-26 (Bond Parameters): Passed on roll call (7-0, one absent). - Resolution R-187-26 (Elected Official Compensation): Passed on roll call (8-1, Alder Herbs opposed). - Resolution R-193-26 (Subdivision Improvements): Passed. - Resolution R-194-26 (Traceway-Leopold Path): Passed. - Resolution R-190-26 (Kids Crossing Playground): Passed on roll call (8-0). - Resolution R-174-26 (McKee Farms Park Signs & Splash Pad): Amended to remove sign replacement; splash pad maintenance approved. - Solid waste rates (R-192-26): Deferred to November 10 meeting. - Other resolutions (R-186-26, R-148-26, etc.) passed as noted.

This meeting took place on October 8, 2026. No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided, so no substantive discussion, decisions, or public testimony can be summarized. All details about the meeting are unavailable in the source materials.

On October 6, 2026, the Fitchburg Police and Fire Commission (PFC) convened at 5:10 PM for an initial hearing on a citizen complaint filed by Reginald Mims against Captain McCarthy, Captain Brown, Officer Vang, Officer Homburg, Officer Claudio Dominguez, and Sergeant Michaels. Commission President Baxter noted that Captain Hartwick and Officer Luke are no longer employed by the city and are therefore not subject to PFC jurisdiction. Attorney Harrell, representing the respondent officers, moved to dismiss the amended complaint with prejudice. After hearing argument and deliberating in closed session, the PFC voted to dismiss the complaint without prejudice and allowed Mims one additional opportunity to refile within six months. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public appeared in chambers or via Zoom, as noted during the meeting. Discussion Items - Attorney Harrell argued that the complaint failed to comply with PFC Rule 6.4, which requires separate charges against each respondent, and that the allegations lacked sufficient factual detail tied to specific policies. She noted the previous complaint was dismissed without prejudice about a year and a half earlier and argued Mims was using the process for discovery. She asked for dismissal with prejudice. - Reginald Mims responded that he was not asking the commission to decide every allegation was true, but wanted the allegations heard on the evidence. He referenced the July 16, 2024 incident and said the complaint identified improper conduct including force during arrest and handcuffing, failure to intervene, supervisory conduct, statements and reports, and post-incident handling. He said he had gathered body-worn camera evidence, police reports, EMS documentation, witness information, and other records. He asked the commission to deny dismissal or allow him to amend and separate charges, noting he filed as a pro se citizen and previously submitted a two-form complaint followed by an 18-page amended complaint. - In reply, Attorney Harrell said PFC rules must be followed and Mims had already received an opportunity to cure deficiencies after the May 21, 2025 dismissal. She argued due process and fair notice require specificity now, not at a later evidentiary hearing, and asked for dismissal with prejudice. - During commissioner questioning, Mims was asked whether he was bringing charges or requesting investigation. He said the charges included allegations regarding police conduct and he wanted the opportunity to present evidence in support. He explained the delay by saying he was requesting records, reviewing body camera and EMS footage, pursuing an internal complaint, and handling related federal litigation, and that a key record obtained on July 27, 2026 gave him a clearer picture before refiling. - Commissioner Pelabon asked whether Mims had taken advantage of an offer to meet with the PFC attorney from the prior hearing; Mims said he had not. Another commissioner cited the May 21, 2025 dismissal and instructions to file individual complaints against each officer. Mims said he believed his complaint was proper for a non-attorney but was willing to make any corrections the commission directed. - The commission moved into closed session to deliberate and receive legal advice, citing Wisconsin open meetings exemptions for quasi-judicial deliberations, public employee performance/employment data, and consultation with legal counsel regarding pending litigation. Key Outcomes - After reconvening in open session, the PFC passed a motion to dismiss Mims's complaint without prejudice and to allow him to refile one additional time within six months, provided the refiled complaint complies with PFC rules on separate charges and specificity. The motion passed by roll call vote. - Commission President Baxter acknowledged his procedural error in skipping agenda items 1-3, placed on the record that the meeting convened at 5:10 PM, and noted there were no public appearances. The meeting then adjourned.

The Fitchburg Board of Public Works met at 5:30 p.m. on October 5, 2026, with the full board present. Director of Public Works Tim Volker reported on active construction projects, and the board unanimously approved six action items, including subdivision, rate, path funding, sewer service, and improvement acceptance resolutions. The meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the minutes of the September 21, 2026 meeting. - During the review of utility P-card and check payments, a board member asked about a check to SCS Engineers for stormwater pond sediment sampling ahead of upcoming dredging; the pond dredging project budget was described as just under $1.6 million. Another payment to Beast Busters LLC was for beaver removal at Swan Creek Park. No formal action was taken on the payment list. Public Comments & Testimony - No one appeared for the non-agenda public comment portion. Matt, associated with Viridian, was present and registered for the first action item but did not give separate public testimony. Discussion Items - DPW project updates: - Whalen Road Pave Shoulder Project: paving was completed last week; shouldering restoration and pavement markings remain. - 2026 Street Resurfacing: Tower Hill curb and gutter replacements are installed, pavement has been removed, and grading and manhole adjustments are underway; paving is expected in the next couple of weeks and by the end of the month. - 2025 ARPA Street Resurfacing (Bellmar neighborhood): curb and gutter has been poured, all pavement has been removed, and paving is expected in the next couple of weeks. - 2026 Sidewalk Replacement: the contractor expected to complete restoration, followed by a final walkthrough to create a punch list; the project is substantially complete. - Fitch Rona Road Reconstruction: private utility relocations by MGE, Alliant, and other utilities are ongoing through November 30, 2026. - Street sweeping: both sweepers will operate beginning in October for about six months. - Resolution R-191-26 (read in the transcript as 'R-1912'): approved the fifth amendment to the Highfield Reserve subdivision improvement agreement. The amendment updates the phasing plan so improvements in future phases adjacent to both sides of corner lots are complete before building permits are released, extends the timing of infiltration facility restoration to reduce sediment clogging, and allows the subdivider to construct park improvements in Outlots 6 and 10 with costs credited toward park improvement fees. Parks staff said the concept plans feature native plantings, accessible trails, and sidewalks linking a multi-use trail, with maintenance in mind; the developer must follow city standards, go to public bid, and provide a five-year warranty. One board member expressed displeasure with Viridian over earlier premature sidewalk failures and said the city would not accept that again. - Resolution R-192-26: approved 2027 solid waste collection rates. The city's residential contract is with Pelletary Waste Systems LLC. Approximately 6,700 homes will be charged $240 per unit for weekly refuse, every-other-week recycling, five yard waste collections, and 14 brush collections; the 2026 rate was $236. Approximately 3,766 apartment and condominium units will be charged $7.50 per unit for brush and holiday tree collection, up from $7.35. The resolution cost is approximately $1.83 million; a board member noted the 2027 budget lists $1.851 million, a roughly $18,000 discrepancy, and there was also an apparent unit-count discrepancy. Tim Volker said he would check both with Ben Shulte. - Resolution R-194-26: approved a state municipal agreement for the Traceway-Leopold shared-use path along Traceway Drive and Post Road to Leopold Way. The project is in the CIP for 2028 design and 2030 construction and received Federal Transportation Alternatives Program funding. State funding covers up to 80% of construction costs, but a board member noted the city's share is roughly $647,000 of about $1.4 million and design costs are not covered. Staff said the path will not quite reach the Cannonball path because the connecting segment is in Madison; Madison wants that segment included, so Fitchburg would invoice Madison for the work, and that segment is not in the funding totals. No real estate needs are anticipated; lighting and Traceway resurfacing are included. - Resolution R-148-26: approved a sewerage service agreement among the Village of Oregon, the City of Fitchburg, and the Wisconsin Department of Corrections for a juvenile corrections facility. A November 25, 2025 council resolution conditionally approved the certified survey map for the facility. Fitchburg's sanitary sewer is about 2.5 miles north, making extension impractical, so Oregon will provide service under a 2010 arrangement. The Department of Corrections will pay all design, construction, usage, and permitting costs; Fitchburg and Oregon will cooperate if Fitchburg service becomes available; and DOC will provide easements for future extension of the Sciene interceptor. Stormwater service had not yet been addressed. - Resolution R-193-26: accepted subdivision improvements for Lot 2 of CSM 10031 and Lot 2 of CSM 11021 on Basswood Drive, constructed under a 2016 contract with Sub Zero Group Inc. Public Works inspected and conditionally approved the improvements, which included a new cul-de-sac disconnecting Basswood Drive from private Buds Drive. No conditions remained. - Resolution R-181-26: approved a state municipal agreement for the Southdale Path from McCoy Road to Englehart Drive. The project is in the CIP for 2027 design and 2029 construction and received Wisconsin DOT carbon reduction program funding at 80% of construction costs. The funding application included a pedestrian bridge and roughly half boardwalk, but staff and board members discussed minimizing the boardwalk and preferring an at-grade asphalt path, extending culverts instead of a bridge, and using a guardrail or other separation from traffic. One board member questioned the carbon reduction benefit, and another noted the need to start by September 30, 2028 to avoid losing CRP funding. Staff will work with Dane County on any easements and will consider a connection through the wooded area at the north end. Key Outcomes - The board approved the September 21, 2026 minutes unanimously. - Resolution R-191-26 (Highfield Reserve) — approved unanimously. - Resolution R-192-26 (2027 solid waste rates) — approved unanimously. - Resolution R-194-26 (Traceway-Leopold Path) — approved unanimously. - Resolution R-148-26 (Oregon/Fitchburg/DOC sewer agreement) — approved unanimously. - Resolution R-193-26 (Basswood Drive acceptance) — approved unanimously. - Resolution R-181-26 (Southdale Path) — approved unanimously. - Staff follow-ups: Tim Volker to verify solid waste unit counts and the $1.851 million versus $1.83 million budget/resolution difference with Ben Shulte; staff to coordinate with Madison on the Traceway connector, explore lower-cost Southdale Path design options, and work with Dane County on easements. - Next Board of Public Works meeting: Monday, October 19, 2026, at the same time and place.