Public Meetings - Fitchburg, Wisconsin

The Fitchburg Licensing Committee met on May 12, 2026, with a quorum present (Chair Alder Reichstan, Vice Chair Alder Herbst, and Alder Leper) to review and approve sound permit applications for several community events. No members of the public appeared for non-agenda items. The committee approved the consent agenda and all sound permits unanimously. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda, which included approval of the previous meeting minutes and two operator licenses, was approved by voice vote with no questions. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made for non-agenda items. Discussion Items The committee considered the following sound permit applications: - Memorial Day Observance (5A): Event at Gorman Wayside Veterans Memorial Park on May 25, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. with amplified music. Approved as a recurring event. - Madison Takes Steps (5B): Event for Crohn's and Colitis Foundation Wisconsin chapter at McKee Farms Park on June 6, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. with amplified sound. Approved as recurring. - Circle Summer Picnic (5C): Circo summer picnic at McKee Farms Park on July 18, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with amplified sound. Noted as a new event with a different applicant. Approved. - Seminal Pool and Tennis Club Events (5D): Series of events with amplified sound throughout the summer at Schumann Drive. Alder Herbst inquired about neighbor complaints; none had been received. Approved as recurring. - West High Grad Party (5E): Event at Swan Creek Park on June 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with amplified sound. Applicant Kim Holdener described it as a graduation party for four students. Approved. - Popsicles in the Park (5F): City of Fitchburg event at Hegel Jamestown Park on June 11, 2026, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. with amplified sound. City staff Jessica described a resident-led event with music and popsicles. Approved. - 16th Birthday Party (5G): Event at Magal Park on May 24, 2026, from noon to 8 p.m. with amplified sound and live music. Applicant Mary described karaoke, folkloric dancing, and a potential mariachi band. Approved. - Green Family Event (5H): Family function at Hegel Jamestown Park on May 25, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with amplified sound. Applicant Giovanni described a Memorial Day gathering with music. Approved. - Promega Annual Summer Picnic (5I): Recurring event at Research Park Drive with amended date of June 12, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with amplified live music. Date change approved. - Bands at Fairway and Outdoor Background Music (5J): Event at Fairway Lounge (former Benvenuto's) on Tripic to Pike Drive, from May 15 through October 31, 2026, with daily background music from 5 to 8 p.m. and live music on Fridays. Applicant Justin described acoustic performances and low volume. Approved. Key Outcomes - All sound permit motions were approved by voice vote with no opposition. - The consent agenda was approved. - The next committee meeting is scheduled for May 26, 2026. - The meeting adjourned at 6:06 p.m.

The Fitchburg Resource Conservation Commission (RCC) convened on May 11, 2026. The meeting featured discussions on the commission's role in monitoring planned development, planning for Plastic-Free July, recapping April community events, and receiving a council staff update on city projects and policies. Consent Calendar - Motion to approve the draft minutes from the March 9, 2026 RCC meeting. Motion carried. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items RCC's Role in Monitoring Planned Development Staff member Ben led a discussion on the RCC's role in regulating planned development. He outlined three primary mechanisms: - Ordinance Updates: The commission makes policy recommendations for ordinances in Chapter 30 (erosion control/stormwater management), Chapter 40 (stormwater utility), and Chapter 41 (solid waste/recycling). Ben noted the Chapter 30 ordinance is due for an update to align with stricter Dane County standards. - Neighborhood and Comprehensive Plans: The RCC reviews neighborhood plans (e.g., Greenfield, South Stoner Prairie) and comprehensive plans, focusing on environmental features like wetlands, creeks, and buffer areas. Currently, the city's comprehensive plan recommends a 300-foot buffer from wetlands. Buffer minimums are governed by Dane County's environmental corridor policy and CARPC review, with variations between 75-foot and 150-foot widths based on waterway classification (navigable vs. non-navigable, shifting towards a perennial vs. intermittent standard). - Big-Picture Policy: It was explained the commission generally does not weigh in on specific development plans (that is the Plan Commission's role), but instead sets the rules and policies developers must know in advance so they do not face surprises. Commissioner Chris noted that the RCC provides recommendations but lacks the authority to stop or modify specific developments as long as they meet established ordinances. Commissioners discussed the increasing frequency of high-intensity storms due to climate change and the need for the city to consider updating stormwater infrastructure sizing standards (e.g., moving beyond the 10-year/25-year storm event benchmarks). Plastic Free July Planning Commissioner Kim (participating by phone) outlined plans for Plastic Free July. Past efforts involved "bring your own bag" events at grocery stores, which she described as 'preaching to the choir.' - Proposed New Approach: A shift towards educational outreach on Fitchburg's ability to recycle various plastics at the city drop-off site. This was prompted by a Ridwell event showing high resident interest in advanced plastic recycling, many of whom were unaware of the city's existing program. Kim expressed strong support for a campaign informing residents of locally available options. - Logistics: The event would be separate from the film series and initially target single-family homes before expanding to multi-family dwellings. The commission plans to hold a community outreach meeting in the coming weeks to finalize the venue (Hub, library) and messaging. Sustainability Event Planning Commissioner Ryan updated the commission on a planned sustainability tour at Duns Marsh, coordinated with the Parks Department and potentially featuring a speaker from the Badger Talks program. A new boardwalk built by Promega along the Cap City Trail to a spring near Eagle School was highlighted as a possible future tour location. Commissioners expressed support for utilizing local natural features and experts for walkable events, alongside a potential fall bike event. Potential speakers like Robert Montgomery (hydraulic engineer) were mentioned. Green Thursday Event Planning The commission discussed the film series and improving event outreach. Commissioners expressed interest in creating a printed postcard or magnet detailing the year's events (Green Thursday, Shred, Electronics) to increase awareness among residents. There was a debate about wastefulness, with Commissioner Chris advocating for a reusable Fitchburg-branded magnet paired with a recyclable paper postcard. April Events Recap - Shred/Electronics Recycling Event: 11,000 pounds of paper and just over 10,000 pounds of electronics were collected. The event was extremely busy, with lines extending onto Lacey Road. - Waterway Cleanups: Good turnout with 12-15 volunteers. Less trash was collected than in prior years, which was attributed to reduced traffic on Scien Road due to construction. - Bilingual Conservation Fair: Held at the Hub by Wisconsin El Centro Latinos, the event saw strong attendance (over 100 people) and included city staff and various community vendors. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Draft minutes from March 9, 2026 approved. - Council Update: Council member Bill provided an update highlighting: - New developments: McCoy/DM corner project (300 apartments, 40 townhomes, 35 single-family, 120 senior living), Uptown Fitchburg buildout, Sesta senior residence in TerraVesa, and Bowman Plaza (Fitchburg's tallest building at 6-7 stories). - Infrastructure: Start of street resurfacing in Bellmar, Tower Hill, Hillside Heights in late May/early June. Fitchrona Road project in two phases. LED street light conversion grant. - Selection of Fitchburg for a LEED for Cities national cohort by the US Green Building Council and Bank of America. - Staff Updates (Ben/Phil): - Solid Waste: The food scrap collection program has processed approximately 2,345 gallons (9,000 lbs) since October and has 265 registrations. The annual recycling report was submitted to the DNR. - Stormwater: Storm sewer televising of 10,000 feet was completed with no major issues. The 2026 Belmar and Tower Hill Utility Improvements Project, awarded to Speedway Sand and Gravel, will start May 26th. Storm sewer upsizing on Crescent Road aims to alleviate recurrent flooding. - Staff is exploring Level 3 EV charging stations at the Community Center, to be installed and operated by MGE for five years at no cost to the city. - Upcoming Events: Bike to Work with the Mayor on Friday, May 14th at McKee Farms Park at 7 a.m. - Plastic-Free July: Commission to organize a subcommittee meeting to develop the Plastic-Free July outreach event and find a film. - Articles: Commissioners committed to writing Green E-news articles on food scraps (Chris for June) and plastics (Kim for July).

The Fitchburg Parks Commission met on May 7, 2026, at 5:00 PM to welcome new members, approve the next phase of the Southdale Park development, adopt a resolution adjusting fee schedule oversight, and review a comprehensive park inventory and Capital Improvement Plan. The meeting adjourned at 6:55 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (April): The commission conducted a roll call before unanimously approving the minutes from the previous meeting. - Approval of Agenda: The agenda was approved as written by a unanimous voice vote. - New Member Introductions: Todd Bruner (retiring Verona principal) and Alder Joe Maldonado (Bellmar neighborhood) were formally welcomed to the commission. Public Comments & Testimony - Patrick Cheney (on Southdale Park): Asked whether the proposed improvements would replace or remove the existing shelter. Staff confirmed the plan adds a second shelter while retaining the original. - Patrick Cheney (on Staff Reports): Questioned the total number of city chippers and 16-foot mowers. He strongly criticized a recent chainsaw safety training class as "poorly managed, poorly conducted, and pointless," alleging it served as a "convenient excuse to cut down many more trees in the McGark Park Woods," including some that did not appear dead, and that felled trees were left blocking a popular hiking trail for several days. Discussion Items - 5A: Southdale Park Concept Development: Eric and Rob Stein (EO EOR) presented two concepts. The total project budget is $400,000, with $115,000 already spent on a new playground, leaving $285,000 remaining. Concept B, featuring a larger splash pad and shelter with a single-stall restroom, was favored over Concept A (smaller amenities, dual-stall restroom). Water consumption for the larger splash pad is estimated at 57 gallons per minute. Commissioner Sue Easter Day supported the larger splash pad, citing high neighborhood demand. Alder Maldonado suggested adding public Wi-Fi as a bid alternate. The commission unanimously approved Concept B for further exploration. - 5B: Resolution R8326 (Fee Schedule Oversight): Staff explained the resolution transfers oversight of community center fee schedules from the Parks Commission to the Recreation Board, correcting an ordinance discrepancy following a department split. The resolution passed unanimously. - 7B: CIP and Inventory Overview: Staff unveiled a new public-facing GIS map of all park amenities, allowing residents to search for specific features like soccer fields or playgrounds. Eric introduced a new CIP replacement schedule for playgrounds based on a 25 to 30-year lifespan, adapting a model from Public Works to enable proactive budgeting. The main capital priority for 2027 is the Kids' Crossing project. Commissioners praised the tool for improving planning and equity in budget decisions. - Athletic Court Renovations (Swan Creek & Wildwood): Bids for the court renovations close on May 13. Staff recommended the commission formally approve the winning bid at its next meeting. Work is expected to begin around July 1 with substantial completion by October 15. - July Meeting Rescheduled: The commission voted unanimously to move the July meeting from July 2 to July 9, 2026, to avoid the Independence Day holiday. Key Outcomes - Southdale Park Design: Approved Concept B (larger splash pad/shelter, single-stall restroom) for development. A bid alternate for public Wi-Fi will be explored. - Resolution R8326: Approved, transferring community center fee oversight to the Recreation Board. - Meeting Schedule: The July 2026 meeting was rescheduled from July 2 to July 9. - CIP & GIS Inventory: A new public GIS park amenity map and a 10-year playground replacement cycle were introduced. Kids' Crossing is the primary 2027 capital project. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for June 4, 2026.

The Fitchburg Bike and Pedestrian Commission met on May 6, 2026, to review public works projects and timelines affecting bicycle and pedestrian networks, discuss statewide e-moto regulation, consider whether to allow bicycling on sidewalks, and prepare for the city's bicycle-friendly community redesignation. Commissioners approved the prior meeting's minutes and reached consensus on next steps for a sidewalk-riding ordinance. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the April 1, 2026 meeting minutes by voice vote; the motion was seconded by Kelly. Public Comments & Testimony - Steve Arnold, a registered public speaker, testified on sidewalk bicycling. He recommended that an ordinance clearly define sidewalks as concrete and multi-use paths as asphalt, allow children under 11 and accompanying adults to ride on sidewalks, permit sidewalk riding to access bicycle parking, and restrict or discourage sidewalk riding where buildings, fences, hedges, or other obstructions reduce the safety margin. He also urged that the city not rely on zoning definitions because the public generally does not understand them. Discussion Items - Public Works projects and Vision Zero: Staff reported that the Safe Streets for All grant agreement for the Vision Zero Safety Action Plan is under review, with an RFP for a consultant expected within the next four to six weeks. The plan will include about six or seven public meetings and a steering committee, and staff expect a completed safety action plan adopted by council in 18 to 20 months. Commissioners asked for earlier Bike and Pedestrian Commission input on the comprehensive plan and zoning overhaul so bicycle and pedestrian concerns are addressed before drafts are final. Road updates included: Fitchrona Road construction is expected to start this year or in early 2027 and be completed by the end of 2027; Whalen Road will be advertised within about two weeks, with construction starting in late June or early July 2026; and the rectangular rapid-flashing beacon near Swamp Creek Park is scheduled to be reinstalled this spring by Forward Electric. - E-moto regulations: Staff described e-motos as devices in a legal gray area—not meeting the statutory e-bike standards for wattage or speed, but also not classed as mopeds or motorcycles. The city and Bike Fitchburg are seeking a statewide definition and enforcement standards. State legislators, including Senator Chris Larson and Representative Lee Snodger, have expressed interest in authoring a solution, and a Republican co-author is reportedly willing to support it. No state legislation is expected in 2026; the goal is to have something ready for the 2027 session. The Greater Madison MPO is also working on guidance and asking municipalities not to pass conflicting local rules. A Verona Police educational video shown to the commission states that e-motos are not legal on public streets, sidewalks, or bike paths and can only be used on private property. - Sidewalk bicycling policy: Staff explained that state law allows municipalities to permit sidewalk riding by ordinance, and Fitchburg has not done so, making sidewalk riding currently illegal. Police and city administration have essentially not been enforcing the prohibition, and staff were asked to craft a simple, comprehensible policy. Commissioners reviewed ordinances from Madison, Middleton, Verona, McFarland, Oregon, Monona, Mount Horeb, Shorewood, Maple Bluff, Windsor, and Milwaukee County. Discussion included support for a Madison-style rule with additions such as allowing younger children to ride on sidewalks, prohibiting sidewalk riding where buildings or obstructions abut the sidewalk, requiring slow speeds and yielding to pedestrians, and clarifying that where protected bike facilities exist, sidewalks are for pedestrians. Some commissioners favored a simpler universal ban for pedestrian safety, while others wanted to permit sidewalk riding where people feel unsafe. The commission directed staff to draft language based on the Madison approach with additional caveats for further discussion in June. - Bicycle-friendly community redesignation: The application for the League of American Bicyclists' bicycle-friendly community designation is due in June 2027. Bike Fitchburg representatives reviewed the current effort and said the league is looking for measurable city commitments such as a bike-ped coordinator, 20 mph speed limits where appropriate, B-cycle expansion, a multi-use path ordinance, and the Vision Zero plan. A commissioner predicted the city can reach gold if the bike coordinator issue is addressed. The B-cycle discussion covered expiring agreements funded by the TAP grant, the need for ridership and sponsorships, and ideas to require bike-share or bike parking in new developments and TIF districts, add bicycle parking requirements to the zoning code, and include bicycle, pedestrian, and bike-share mitigation points in traffic impact analysis guidelines. Commissioners also raised the need for bike parking at polling places. It was agreed to keep this as a standing agenda item until the application is submitted. - Biking and walking event promotion: Staff and Bike Fitchburg are planning educational events, including a potential Dunn's Marsh walking tour and related bicycle tours with UW faculty speakers. May 2026 bike month activities were highlighted: Bike the Berg Challenge is underway, Bike to Work Day is May 15 with a ride starting at McKee Farms Park, and Wisconsin Bike Week events will follow. Reports and Updates - Council update: The capital improvement plan schedule is on the city website; amendments are due to the finance director on July 6, 2026. Commissioners were invited to flag possible amendments after the CIP is released in June. - Staff update: The mayor will make the Bike Month, Bike to Work Day, and Wisconsin Bike Week proclamation next Tuesday. Bike Fitchburg expects results next week for four bicycle-friendly business applicants and has a 100% award rate so far. Cycling Without Age has given 27 rides. The next regular commission meeting was scheduled for May 18 instead of May 25 because of Memorial Day; an All Kids Bike educational presentation may be placed later on the agenda because the group is based in Mountain time. Key Outcomes - Approved the April 1, 2026 meeting minutes unanimously. - Directed staff to prepare a draft sidewalk-riding ordinance based on the Madison policy, with additional consideration of young riders, obstructions, slow-speed and yielding requirements, and simplicity for enforcement and public understanding; the draft is to be brought back at the next meeting. - Maintained the bicycle-friendly community redesignation as a standing agenda item, with Bike Fitchburg leading the application and staff supporting data collection. - Asked staff to explore ways for the commission to provide input on the comprehensive plan, zoning rewrite, and Vision Zero Safety Action Plan before final drafts are complete. - No formal votes were taken on e-moto regulation or sidewalk policy; actions on those items were limited to consensus and staff direction.

The Fitchburg Board of Public Works met on Monday, May 4, 2026 at 5:30 p.m., chaired by Alder Walder Jetzer. The meeting included a presentation from the Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District, a director’s report, and action on two resolutions – a budget amendment for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) funding and a contract for an AMI meter software upgrade. A third resolution was postponed. Key votes included a 3‑2 approval of the BRT budget amendment and unanimous approval of the software contract. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The April 20, 2026 meeting minutes were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public appeared or submitted comments for non‑agenda items. Discussion Items - Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) Presentation: Executive Director Eric Dundee presented an update on the district, which serves 24 customer communities and 440,000 residents, treating an average of 38 million gallons of wastewater per day. Major projects include a $50 million treatment process upgrade (bidding June 2026), a heat and power project to utilize biogas, and the Nine Springs Valley interceptor project (phases 1 and 2) – with phase 2 ahead of schedule due to a pipe collapse. Dundee noted five force‑main breaks in the last five years, attributed to aging infrastructure. He also discussed challenges with chloride from road salt and water softeners, including a new permit limit of 408 mg/L (current summer baseline 370–380, winter spikes to 420). Flushable wipes remain a maintenance issue. In response to questions, Dundee confirmed the district is evaluating biosolids options (current practice: free fertilizer) and balancing PFAS risks; the “do‑nothing” upgrade for biosolids is $55 million. He invited board members to tour the plant. - Director of Public Works Report: Tim Volker provided administrative updates: - Public information meeting for the Bellmar/Tower Hill Utility Improvement Project set for May 14, 2026 at 6 p.m. - Prescribed burns completed for spring; fall burn scheduled for Terra Vesa infiltration areas. - Spring hydrant flushing continues through May 15, 2026. - 2026 street resurfacing by Payne & Dolan anticipated to start late May/early June. - Sidewalk replacement project received no bids when opened April 30, 2026; re‑advertising May 8 with bids due May 22 – staff will contact contractors to understand why no bids. - Wayland Road paved shoulder project to be advertised May 15, bids open May 29. - SYNE Interceptor contractor began pipe installation. - Water tower D painting to start with a containment shroud to protect nearby properties. - Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) – Resolution R9726 Discussion: Ross (staff) presented the amended budget request. The Fitchburg portion of Route B (north‑south BRT) is estimated at $17 million, down from $25 million due to switching from center‑running to side‑running stations. Federal funding is now expected at 70% (down from 80%), increasing Fitchburg’s local share to $5.1 million ($1.5M already in CIP, $4.2M additional needed via this amendment). 33% of the project lies within TID 10, 44% within a half‑mile, and 23% outside (to be funded by citywide borrowing). The amendment was necessary to address a risk factor for federal grant approval at a risk workshop May 19–21. Board members raised concerns about cost escalation, service reliability (citing East‑West BRT maintenance issues), and funding stability. Ross noted the cost estimates are based on actual East‑West construction and include inflation for 2028 construction; signal priority and a new signal at High Ridge Trail are included. - AMI Meter Software Upgrade – Resolution R10526 Discussion: The city’s current meter data management system (Logic) from 2012 will no longer be supported after June 2026. The new contract with CORE & Maine (formerly HD Supply) provides Census Analytics software with a one‑time setup fee of $10,500 and annual hosting for 10 years. The first year’s hosting fee ($27,576) is less than the current Logic fee ($28,881). Board members asked about meter replacement (not needed until 2032), sunset timeline, new features, troubleshooting support, billing interface, comparability with other communities, and privacy policy (staff will clarify data handling). The contract includes prorating to avoid double payment. Key Outcomes - Resolution R9726 (BRT Budget Amendment) – Approved 3‑2. The resolution amends the 2026 TID 10 and capital project funds budgets, adding $4.2 million in local funding for the Fitchburg BRT portion. The vote: three ayes, two nays. - Resolution R10526 (AMI Software Contract) – Approved Unanimously. The 10‑year contract with CORE & Maine for Census Analytics was approved, including the $10,500 setup fee and annual hosting. - Resolution R10326 – Postponed to Date Uncertain. Due to the absence of a required SIA (Supporting Information Attachment) in the agenda packet, the resolution was postponed unanimously. - Next Meeting: Monday, May 18, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. - Meeting Adjourned at 6:50 p.m.

Presiding Judge Omni Yesalair convened the Fitchburg Municipal Court for an arraignment session on the evening of April 30, 2026. Judge Yesalair outlined the three types of pleas (guilty, not guilty, and no contest), the demerit point system for traffic violations, and the distinction between civil and criminal convictions for various offenses. Public Comments & Testimony - A defendant cited for shoplifting expressed remorse and asked about the possibility of expungement. The judge explained this would be considered after a period without re-offense. - A defendant cited for failure to stop for a school bus requested a reduction or payment plan. A $20 biweekly plan was established. - Multiple OWI defendants entered guilty pleas. One defendant (Latrice Johnson) agreed to a plea bargain dropping related charges. Various personal circumstances were cited, including a defendant rushing her husband home from a hospital procedure, a defendant under family stress, and a defendant worried about losing his commercial driving business. - A defendant cited for a red light violation entered a plea of not guilty and had a trial date scheduled. Key Outcomes - Shoplifting: Guilty plea entered. $439 fine imposed. - Failure to Stop for School Bus: Guilty plea. $20 biweekly payment plan arranged. - OWI Plea Agreement (Latrice Johnson): Guilty plea to OWI refusal. Charges for speed and operating without a license dismissed. $860 fine, 6-month license revocation, 6 demerit points, mandatory assessment. - OWI with .22 BAC (Jose Prodraza Martinez): Guilty plea. $1,099 fine, 9-month license suspension, IID device required, mandatory assessment. - OWI with .15 BAC (Jesus Villism Diaz): Guilty plea. $1,036 fine, 8-month license revocation, IID device required, mandatory assessment. - Open Intoxicant and OWI Refusal (Jeremy Simmons): Guilty plea. $1,099 fine, 1-year license revocation, IID device required, mandatory assessment. - OWI Refusal and No License (Miguel Hernandez): Guilty plea. 1-year license revocation, IID device required, mandatory assessment. - Operation Without Headlights (Tromell Robinson): Guilty plea. Charge dismissed upon payment of $38 court costs after the lights were fixed. - Inattentive Driving (Porter Campbell): Guilty plea. $79 fine, 3 demerit points. - Zone Speeding 86 in 55 mph (Margretta Mellenberger): Guilty plea. Points reduced, fine paid. - Zone Speeding 63 in 30 mph (Daniel Adu): No contest plea. Demerit points reduced to four. - Zone Speeding 90 in 70 mph (Lee Brown): Guilty plea. Case adjourned to May 28, 2026, for further review due to habitual offender status; judge advised consulting an attorney. - Unreasonable Speed and Hit and Run (Allah Lawson): Guilty plea. Points reduced to three, fines set at $91 and $187.

The Fitchburg Licensing Committee met on April 28, 2026, to review and approve multiple special event permits, sound permits, and temporary alcohol licenses for upcoming community events. The committee also approved a resolution to increase the municipal court fee from $38 to $48. All items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the consent agenda, which included the minutes from the April 14 meeting and routine licenses (including two new operator licenses). Approved unanimously. Discussion Items - UCP Family Frolic Sound Permit (recurring): United Cerebral Palsy of Dane County event at McKee Farms Park on June 20, 2026, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with amplified sound. No speakers present. Approved. - SMART Membership Picnic Sound Permit (recurring): At McKee Farms Park on July 25, 2026, noon to 5 p.m. Approved. - Martinez Family Birthday Party Sound Permit (new): At McGaugh Park on June 6, 2026, noon to 7:30 p.m. Applicant Eduardo requested the permit for his daughter's 15th birthday, expecting 85 attendees. Committee advised on sound management. Approved. - Concerts at McKee Special Event Permit (recurring): Three concerts at McKee Farms Park on June 15, July 20, and August 17, 2026, 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. with amplified music. Sean Path (former mayor) expressed strong support, noting the event's growth and community significance. Approved. - Temporary Class B License for Concerts at McKee (beer/wine): Fitchburg Lions Club to serve alcohol. Sean Path described the club's volunteer training, collaboration with Capital Brewery, and that the event raises approximately $5,000 for community causes. He urged approval. Approved. - Festa Italia Special Event Permit (recurring): Italian Workmen's Club event at McKee Farms Park on May 30–31, 2026. David Rizzo reported attendance of 4,000–5,000, a new food vendor (Curd Girls), and parking arrangements with neighboring businesses and shuttle services. Approved. - Temporary Class B License for Festa Italia (beer/wine): Professional bartenders from Southern Italy imports will serve. David Rizzo noted the efficient service and ID-checking process. Approved. - Four Winds Farm Food Truck Festival Special Event Permit (recurring): On July 18, 2026, 4–9 p.m. at Four Winds Farm. Leah Corcoran stated the event is unchanged from last year, expecting about 1,000 people with ample on-site parking. Approved. - Change in Licensed Premise Description for Four Winds Farm Food Truck Festival: Extended alcohol service area to the south field and parking lot. Approved. - Resolution R-9626 – Increase Municipal Court Fee: From $38 to $48 on forfeiture citations (excluding parking) per Wisconsin Act 113; fee had not been raised since January 1, 2014. Approved. Key Outcomes - All motions passed unanimously by committee members present. - The next Licensing Committee meeting is scheduled for May 12, 2026, at 5:45 p.m. - Meeting adjourned at 6:22 p.m.

The Fitchburg Common Council convened on April 28, 2026, to address a packed agenda including a firefighter promotion, two proclamations, a contested reappointment to the Parks Commission, and the approval of several major rezone and development proposals. The council also approved the annual Healthy Neighborhoods grant awards and numerous public works, finance, and policy resolutions. Opening Business & Proclamations - Fire Department Promotion: Firefighter Alex Wickman was formally promoted to Lieutenant. The Fire Chief highlighted his eight years of service, paramedic skills, and leadership in EMS administration and technical rescue programs. - Economic Development Week (May 4-8): Mayor Radafrata proclaimed the week, recognizing Economic Development Director Mike Zimmerman for his work. The proclamation emphasized Fitchburg's population of 36,197 and a tax base of $6.16 billion. - Building Safety Month (May 2026): Representatives from the fire and building inspection departments accepted the proclamation, thanking the council for recognizing the collaborative work of professionals in safe building construction. Appointments & Reappointments - New Appointments: The council approved Todd Brunner to the Parks Commission and Mary Winkers to the EMS Commission. - Contested Reappointment: Alder Dave Lepper opposed the reappointment of Christopher Peguero to the Parks Commission, stating his attendance was "barely 50%" and he "missed all three meetings" last summer. Mayor Radafrata stated the absences were excused. The council voted to approve the full slate of other reappointments, excluding Peguero. A subsequent vote to reappoint Peguero passed with 6 in favor and 2 opposed. Discussion Items Plan Commission: - Wingro Real Estate Multifamily (Ordinance 2026.014): Approved a rezone for a market-rate multifamily development (273 units). The project includes a 4-story parking structure with 450 stalls (1.55 per unit), a 10-foot multi-use path, and electric heat pumps with central gas water heating. Council members requested the developer consider installing a B-cycle station. - Grace Hospice Care Dementia Village (Res. R10626 & Ord. 2026.013): Approved a certified survey map and rezone for a phased expansion. Phase 1 reconfigures the current facility for more beds; Phase 2 will build the first dementia village in the U.S. with staff apartments. Total hospice beds will decrease from 50 to 28. - Cesta Senior Living / Hills of Cortland Ridge (Res. R10726): Approved the final plat for a life-lease senior community in Terra Vasen (124 independent living, 40 assisted living, 12 memory care). The council discussed the need for construction traffic and parking mitigation, with city staff pledging to coordinate a plan with the developer. - Bowman Plaza (Ordinance 2026.012): Approved a rezone for a 278-unit, 6-story building at 2932 Fish Hatchery Road. The project sets city records for density (120 DU/acre) and height. It shares parking with a neighboring church. Council members praised the architecture, density, and the shared parking agreement. The developer expressed a preference for professional medical office tenants for the 11,700 sq ft commercial space. Finance Committee: - Healthy Neighborhoods Grant Program (Res. R9526): Approved $124,000 in grants for 8 organizations. Council members discussed the growing need for food assistance programs (noting 70% of Badger Prairie Needs Network clients are Fitchburg residents) and the future structure of the grant categories. Several grantees will host programming at Hastahochi Park. - Municipal Court Fee (Res. R9626): Passed on a roll call vote to increase the fee from $38 to $48, aligning with a new state law and representing the first increase in 12 years. - Cybersecurity Grant (Res. R9826): Authorized acceptance of a $55,000 grant to install multi-factor authentication in police squad car laptops. Board of Public Works: - Approved acceptance of the Belmar and Tower Hill Utility Improvements bid ($2.3 million for utility work, excluding Aztec Trail). - Approved a contract amendment for the Fitrona Road Engineering Services Agreement, phasing the project to minimize traffic impacts and address property acquisition issues. Key Outcomes & Votes - Christopher Peguero Reappointment (Parks Commission): Passed 6-2. - Bowman Plaza Rezone (Ordinance 2026.012): Approved unanimously. - Wingro Multifamily Rezone (Ordinance 2026.014): Approved unanimously. - Healthy Neighborhoods Grant Awards (Res. R9526): Approved. - Municipal Court Fee Increase (Res. R9626): Approved (roll call). - Next Meetings: Regular Council meeting on May 12, 2026. Committee of the Whole on May 27. The first July meeting is canceled; the next meeting will be July 14, 2026.

On April 28, 2026, the Fitchburg Finance Committee met to review financial reports, act on check and P-card reviews, and vote on a series of ordinances and resolutions. The committee unanimously approved minutes, purchasing changes, cooperative purchasing membership, a copier lease amendment, engineering and construction contracts, grant awards, and a municipal court fee increase. Consent Calendar - Approved the April 14, 2026 meeting minutes by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke; no one was present in chambers or on Zoom for non-agenda public appearances. Finance Director Report - The finance director discussed options for additional finance committee reports, including a $10,000-and-above check report, a status report on open pre-approvals, and a report on new pre-approvals. The committee agreed to try a $10,000-and-above report and an open pre-approval report for April at the first meeting in May. - Staff cautioned that publishing too much detail online could help fraudsters or AI-enabled social engineering, but transparency remains a priority. P-card spreadsheet/CSV data was discussed; descriptions are truncated by accounting software import limits, and account names are not easily added without rewriting the chart of accounts. A transparency software portal was described as a longer-term solution. - February treasurer's report: about 70% of property taxes were collected through January 31, and settlement payments to overlying jurisdictions were made on February 20. Refuse/recycling increased by $1.2 million and the library fund by $1.5 million as part of the tax settlement. - Salaries and wages were at 37% of budget after two months, partly due to fire department overtime. Building permit and inspection fees had already reached their budgeted annual amount after two months, reflecting high construction activity and conservative budgeting; excess revenue goes to fund balance for capital projects. - Finance department overtime exceeded its small budget because of the payroll project; a budget amendment will be requested. - The draft audit report is scheduled for the finance and audit committee's first meeting in June. Capital Improvement Plan meetings with the mayor were underway; the mayor's proposed CIP is expected in early June. Review of Bills - Detailed review of checks issued April 1–15, 2026, totaling $1,034,640.96. Questions included the status of AED box installations in parks and whether late HI grants were normal. - P-card transactions for the cycle ending March 6, 2026, totaling $180,004.49, were reviewed. Kalahari Resort charges were identified as police department training/travel, likely a conference. Action Items - Ordinance 2026-0-11: Amended purchasing and public works contract processes. Approved unanimously. It aligns city code with state law splitting public construction into highway and general public construction; raises general public construction notification from $5,000 to $10,000 and public bidding from $25,000 to $50,000; and raises non-public construction purchase thresholds from $25,000 to $50,000. - Resolution R-8226: Approved unanimously. Authorizes membership in TIPS (The Interlocal Purchasing System), a free cooperative purchasing program; staff identified one planned purchase with better pricing through TIPS. - Resolution R-8526: Approved unanimously after a formal amendment. Approves a new copier lease for Fire Station 3 with Rhyme; the amendment corrected per-imprint pricing units from cents to dollars. - Resolution R-8726: Approved unanimously. Approves an amendment to the professional services contract with ePlan Exam for commercial building and plumbing plan review and updates the 2026 building inspection fee schedule. ePlan completes reviews within 15 business days; the city receives 10% of review revenue. - Resolution R-8826: Approved unanimously. Approves contract amendment 3 with AECOM for Fitchrona Road engineering services, adding $48,690 for drainage modifications, utility coordination, survey, monumentation, storm sewer modifications, and meetings. The presenter cited $585,060 as the total engineering cost, though the stated previous total of $563,370 plus $48,690 would be $612,060; this discrepancy was not resolved in the meeting. - Resolution R-9326: Approved unanimously. Awards the police storage building re-roof and gutter replacement to Premier Roofing Design, Inc. d/b/a Top Roofing for a base bid of $68,100, plus a 5% contingency, for a total of $71,550. The roof is EPDM; a council member requested follow-up on fortified roof certification. - Resolution R-9426: Approved unanimously. Awards the 2026 Bellmar and Tower Hill utility improvements project to Speedway Sand and Gravel, Inc. Base bid $2,447,872.17; mandatory alternate $35,939; removal of Aztec Trail water main work reduced the project by $291,566.88; contingency $129,489.95; total project $2,321,734.24. Also amended the 2026 water utility fund to redirect $93,000 to the Tower Hill Water Main Replacement Project. $315,304 of funding comes from a 2022 federal grant and covers Crescent Road stormwater improvements. - Resolution R-9526: Approved unanimously. Awards $128,000 in Healthy Neighborhoods Grant Program funding to eight organizations: River Food Pantry $25,000; Allied Food Pantry $20,000; Rooted Wisconsin $20,000; Active Youth Wisconsin $20,000; Badger Prairie Needs Network $15,000; Boys & Girls Club of Dane County $10,000; Bikes for Kids Wisconsin $10,000; and Reach Dane $4,000. Seventeen applications had requested $328,000. - Resolution R-9626: Approved unanimously. Increases the municipal court fee from $38 to $48 on all forfeiture citations except parking citations, following state legislation signed by Governor Evers at the end of March. The fee had not changed since January 2014; $38 in 2014 is equivalent to about $53 today. The new state law includes future inflationary adjustments every five years. - Resolution R-9826: Approved unanimously. Amends the 2026 technology fund budget for State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) funds. The IT department will purchase cybersecurity solutions including multi-factor authentication for police squad cars; the grant covers 100% of costs with no local match. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous voice votes. - The finance committee directed staff to prepare a $10,000-and-above checks report and an open pre-approval status report for April, to be presented at the first finance meeting in May. - The next finance committee meeting is scheduled for May 12, 2026. The meeting adjourned at 6:17 p.m.