Public Meetings - Fitchburg, Wisconsin

The Fitchburg Library Board met on February 18, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the library meeting room. Board members and staff gathered to approve minutes and the financial register, review and approve the annual bylaws, discuss the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) initiation for 2027, and receive a presentation on the new strategic plan. Key topics included the children's library project, survey data from the community, and goals for the next planning cycle. All items presented were approved or received. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the January 2026 meeting were approved by voice vote with no opposition. - The November financial register and overview were approved by voice vote with no opposition. Wendy Rosson, Library Director, noted a charge to the Wisconsin State Journal for a budget amendment related to utility costs, and the purchase of five new Kindles using surplus computer replacement funds. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. The only attendees beyond board members were library staff. Discussion Items - Annual Bylaws Review: The board reviewed the library bylaws as required annually. Board member Mariah Richards asked about the history of term limits for board members (two consecutive terms with a one-year lapse before reappointment). Wendy confirmed the term limit was recommended by a consultant from South Central. The board decided no changes were needed and approved the bylaws as written. - 2027 CIP Initiation Discussion: Wendy Rosson presented a preliminary look at capital improvements. Projects mentioned include replacing self-check machines (deferred two years, currently nine years old), replacing the library van (2028, with potential support from the Friends of the Library), and the first floor redesign (2027, focusing on fiction and AV area, estimated $75,000). A basement redesign is planned for 2028/2029 when the building and grounds supervisor moves to city hall. Wendy expressed a desire to reduce fund balance spending. - Strategic Plan Presentation: Directors Kristen Garvey and Tagan Carrow presented survey results and an environmental scan. The survey ran June 16–July 14, 2025, and received 437 responses. 91.8% of respondents were Fitchburg residents, 83% use the library at least monthly, and the top reasons for visits were borrowing materials and attending programs. The environmental scan compared Fitchburg to five similar libraries (Oregon, Verona, Sun Prairie, Oak Creek, Beloit), noting Fitchburg's higher population growth, greater diversity, and a decline in registered borrowers (9.7% decrease from 2019-2023, lower than average). Five new strategic plan goals were introduced: Spaces, Collection Usage, Marketing, Programming, and Staffing. Staffing is a new focus area for the library. The plan will use the same flexible work-group framework as the previous plan. Board members praised the staff's work and discussed opportunities for better marketing, including use of social media and collaboration with local influencers. Key Outcomes - The board approved the January 2026 meeting minutes. - The board approved the November 2025 financial register and overview. - The board approved the library bylaws as written, with no changes. - The board received and discussed the CIP initiation for 2027 and the strategic plan presentation. No formal votes were taken on these items; they will be revisited in future meetings. - The next meeting is scheduled for March 18, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the same room.

The Fitchburg Plan Commission met on February 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM (adjourned at 7:44 PM) to consider a conditional use permit, a rezone, a minor PDD amendment, a final plat, two resolutions, and other administrative items. All votes were unanimous by voice vote unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - Approval of previous meeting minutes: Moved, seconded, and carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public appearances for non-agenda items were made. Discussion Items - Item 5A – Conditional Use Permit for The Hive (5335 Lacey Road): Staff reported that the rezone originally on the agenda was not needed due to an error in the official zoning map; the property is already zoned BG. The proposal is for a culinary collective and event space called “The Hive.” Cafe hours: Wed–Fri 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat–Sun 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; event space available 9 a.m.–10 p.m. Capacity is 50 persons, with no amplified music outdoors. A 25-space parking lot is proposed, requiring removal of trees on the western side; screening and additional tree planting are required. The applicant, Melissa Rushdie (owner/founder), confirmed that no food is prepared on site and that the outbuilding will be renovated while the front house remains a rental. She stated she had a successful neighborhood meeting. Staff recommended approval with 15 conditions. Commissioner noted a typo in condition 4 (hours listed as “until 10 a.m.”) which was corrected as a friendly amendment. Motion to approve conditional use with 15 conditions (amended) carried. - Item 5B – Rezone for Greenfield Glen (Maple Lawn Heights lot 6): Request by Adam Gorman (agent for Gorman & Company) to rezone from Transitional Agriculture (AT) to High Density Urban (HDU) to allow a 146-unit multifamily development (86 market-rate, 60 affordable units). Public speaker Rob Rudolph (representing DHR Investments and Nichols Electric Construction) raised concerns about visibility, on-street parking, semi-truck access, and construction traffic. Ned Hoyt spoke in support, providing context about prior plans for the site and noting commercial vacancies in the area. Adam Gorman described the project, which includes underground parking (146 stalls) and 50 surface spots, an artist space (3,000 sq ft), and affordable units supported by 9% LIHTC. Staff noted this is the first use of the HDU district and recommended approval with nine conditions. Commissioners praised the unit mix and affordable component. A motion to approve the rezone with nine conditions carried. - Item 5C – Minor PDD Amendment for Veterinary Clinic (2974 Oshala Drive): Request by Brittany Parksy (agent for McGrath Property Group) to amend the PDD SIP to permit a veterinary clinic/animal hospital use. Staff explained that the existing PDD permits BG uses, but veterinary hospital is not a permitted BG use; this minor amendment would add it. The clinic would be a general practice for dogs and cats, no boarding or training, operating 8 a.m.–5 p.m. with some pickup/drop-off 7 a.m.–7 p.m. The space is adjacent to a pet grooming business. Staff recommended approval as a minor modification. Motion to approve with no conditions carried. - Item 5D – Final Plat for No Oaks Ranch (First Phase): Request by Michelle Burrus (agent for No Oaks Ranch) to approve a final plat for 15 lots (later revised to three buildable lots plus outlots). Staff noted many conditions (30) and that the applicant submitted an updated plat on Friday but staff had insufficient time to process. The plan includes three large multifamily/mixed-use lots, stormwater/wetland outlots, public open space for potential transit, and parkland dedication. Commissioners expressed concern about the number of outstanding conditions and whether approval was premature given the plat is supposed to be “final.” A motion to postpone to the March meeting carried unanimously. - Item 5E – Early Issuance of Permits (Home Street Multifamily Development): The applicant requested postponement indefinitely. Motion to postpone carried. - Item 5F – Resolution R-38-26 (BRT Charging Station): Resolution authorizing commencement of a court action to amend a plat restriction on Outlot 1 in Mickelston’s Woods to allow a bus rapid transit (BRT) charging station. Staff explained the site at Brendan Avenue and McKee would serve as the end-of-line for BRT. Motion to approve with no conditions carried. - Item 5G – Resolution R-49-26 (Affidavit of Correction): Resolution approving an affidavit to correct a legal description error in a pedestrian/bike path easement on Outlots 40–42 in the 7th Edition of Nine Springs. The easement is needed to connect to future development and a park. Motion to approve carried. Key Outcomes - Approved: Conditional use for The Hive (Item 5A) with 15 conditions (amended). - Approved: Rezone for Greenfield Glen (Item 5B) with 9 conditions. - Approved: Minor PDD amendment for veterinary clinic (Item 5C) with no conditions. - Postponed: Final Plat for No Oaks Ranch (Item 5D) to the March 2026 meeting. - Postponed: Early issuance of permits for Home Street development (Item 5E) indefinitely. - Approved: Resolution R-38-26 (Item 5F) with no conditions. - Approved: Resolution R-49-26 (Item 5G) with no conditions. - All votes were unanimous. Department Reports - Transportation and Transit Committee: Reported approval of a federal grant for a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; updates on Fitchrona Road reconstruction delays due to property acquisition; review of 2025 crash data from UW TOPS lab; and planned expansion of Madison Metro bus network in summer 2026. - Staff Updates: RFP for comprehensive plan update and zoning code update due March 6; zoning code updates for farmland preservation (to meet state certification deadline by end of 2026); minor comp plan amendments accepted until March 17; planning intern hiring underway. Next Steps - Staff to process final plat resubmission for No Oaks Ranch; applicant to schedule conditional use permit and architectural design review for Greenfield Glen; corrected condition 4 for The Hive to be recorded; court action for BRT charging station to proceed.

No agenda or minutes were available; this summary is based on the raw transcript. The Board of Public Works met Monday, February 16, 2026, heard the Director of Public Works report, and approved eight resolutions. The meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved the February 2, 2026 meeting minutes by unanimous voice vote (motion by Member Wilbourn, seconded by Ald. Jetzer). Director of Public Works Report - Tim Volker, Director of Public Works, reported that the 2026 street resurfacing project will be advertised shortly, with a bid opening scheduled for the end of February 2026; Hillside Heights, off Irish Lane, is the major neighborhood this year. - The Fitch-Rona Road/Goose Lake Stormwater Project will be advertised for bids in March. The Goose Lake discharge work is separate from the Fitch-Rona Road reconstruction and should be completed in 2026. - The Fitch-Rona Road reconstruction, from Tonto Trail north to Nesbitt Road, is delayed by land acquisition around the planned roundabout at Lacey and Fitch-Rona. Three or four properties remain in negotiation; if agreements are not reached, condemnation could begin around April 6 as a last resort. The project is expected to span two construction seasons and includes funding from the Town of Verona and a city grant. A sewer design change to run north, plus removal of a bike path on the Fermica property at the owner's request, also contributed to delays. - A board member raised sight-line concerns for driveways near the Tonto Trail hill; Volker said extensive changes would be very costly and he would review the profiles if needed. - Volker also responded to earlier council comments about stormwater-funded projects, saying stormwater work is paid through the stormwater utility rather than property taxes, and defended the city's leaf-bagging and street-sweeping practices. - A board member requested that staff notify Mark Hoddle about a rotted speed limit sign on King James Way, just down from Williamsburg Way. Discussion Items 2026 Sidewalk Replacement – Resolution R-4826 - The board approved the preliminary assessment resolution for the 2026 sidewalk replacement program. Most locations are in the northeast part of the city, with additional individual sidewalks added after resident reports. A public GIS map with photos will be posted once finalized, and bids are expected around April. Terra Vesa markings are the responsibility of builders, not the city. The scope is comparable to the 2024 project because 2025 was spent finishing that earlier project. Rejection of Area H Stormwater Pond Bids – Resolution R-4126 - The board authorized rejection of bids for the Area H Stormwater Pond. Bids came in around $3 million, which concerned the landowners. The landowners later reached an agreement to build smaller stormwater facilities instead. The original pond would have had about seven acres of water surface; the alternative is approximately two wet ponds and three infiltration basins providing equivalent treatment. Those facilities will be publicly owned and maintained. Volker confirmed that city ratepayers will not pay for the original pond design; surrounding property owners will cover that cost. Burn Pond Vegetation Management – Resolution R-3126 - The board approved a 2026-2028 vegetation management contract for the Burn Pond. The work targets reed canary grass that continues to appear, likely from old seed in the soil. The contract includes chemical and mechanical removal and one prescribed burn. A member suggested exploring help from Friends of the Park. Stormwater Utility Vegetation Management – Resolution R-3026 - The board approved the 2026-2028 stormwater utility vegetation management program contract with Heartland Ecological at $87,000 per year. Many sites will see fewer visits than in the previous term (one or two instead of three). Terra Vesa facilities still held by developers are excluded until transferred to the city. Most sites receive one prescribed burn over the three-year term, while Terra Vesa medians and infiltration areas are burned annually. The work is funded by the stormwater utility; the fire department reviews prescribed burn applications but does not conduct the burns. Badger Lift Station Replacement Budget Amendment – Resolution R-4626 - The board approved an amendment to the 2026 sewer utility and capital projects fund budgets for the Badger Lift Station replacement. Madison will pay 66% and Fitchburg 33%, prorated by service area. Construction is expected in summer 2026 through summer 2027, with the new station south of the existing one and about 350 linear feet of force main work. The existing station stays in service until switchover. The existing station dates from about 1960 and uses an outdated dry-well/wet-well system; the cost increase was attributed to a full redesign and added force main work. Funding will draw on the former Town of Madison capital account, which has also been used for equipment such as plow trucks. General Fund Utilities and Telephone Budget Amendment – Resolution R-4526 - The board approved an amendment to the 2025 general fund budget for utilities and telephone. The amendment has no net budget effect, using funds from accounts related to The HUB, which was in service only until November 2025. The main cause of the overage was high heating costs in November and December, not telephone service. One fire station heat pump issue increased boiler use, while the geothermal-heated library was not a major driver. Volker committed to provide a summary of how city buildings are heated and cooled at the next meeting and to review whether the utility budget should grow by more than 3% annually. Affidavit of Correction for Nine Springs Bike/Ped Path Easement – Resolution R-4926 - The board approved an affidavit correcting the legal description of the public pedestrian/bike path easement in the Seventh Edition to Nine Springs plat for Lot 66, Outlot 41, and Outlot 42, where Life Point Hospital and the LEDO apartments are planned. The original recorded description was incorrect. The correction does not change the easement width and has no cost to the city. No Oaks Ranch Subdivision Improvements Agreement – Resolution R-1826 - The board approved an agreement for subdivision improvements on Outlot 2 of Certified Survey Map 15163, the No Oaks Ranch plat. The CSM creates Lot 1 out of Outlot 2, and the agreement covers required public improvements, including Home Street and multi-use path/sidewalk work. The agreement was described as a standard template modified for smart-code requirements, including 6-foot and 12-foot sidewalk/path widths. It does not require Planning Commission review and will go to the Common Council next week. Announcements - The next Board of Public Works meeting is Monday, March 2, 2026. The chair said he would be in Canada and might call in. Key Outcomes - Approved the February 2, 2026 minutes and eight resolutions by unanimous voice vote: R-4826, R-4126, R-3126, R-3026, R-4626, R-4526, R-4926, and R-1826. - Staff committed to provide a city buildings heating/cooling summary and utility budget review at the next meeting and to follow up on the King James Way speed limit sign. - Adjourned at 6:30 p.m.

The meeting began with approval of the minutes from the previous meeting. The main agenda included presentations on senior center programs and growth, nutrition and volunteer updates, and discussions on volunteer policy and fee structures for wellness services. Consent Calendar - The minutes were approved unanimously with no changes. Public Comments & Testimony - No public appearances for non-agenda items, but David Hill (Assistant Director) and Mandy (Nutrition and Volunteer Coordinator) presented on agenda items, providing updates on programs and operations. Discussion Items - Senior Center Program Growth (David Hill): David reported significant growth in the e-newsletter subscription list from 929 at the start of 2023 to 1,895 at the time of the meeting, representing over 100% growth. Hard copy newsletters are also distributed (1,200 copies monthly). The center averages 50 programs per week with approximately 225 participants per day (over 1,000 per week). New features include online registration, active links, and video program descriptions. Partnerships with Fitchburg Fact TV and Facebook expand reach. David also highlighted the lunch program as a key entry point for diverse populations, supported by case management and outreach. - Nutrition and Volunteer Program Updates (Mandy): Mandy reported serving 433 different meal clients in the last year, with a decrease of about 1,500 meals compared to the prior year due to changes in managed care organization (MCO) funding as of January 1, 2026. Five clients were removed from meal service. Data entry demands are high; new staff (Chris and Karen) have been critical. Volunteer hours in 2024 were over 17,000, but a change in tracking (excluding knitting, quilting, choir) reduced reported hours to 10,747 for the most recent year. Mandy has received enough volunteers without active recruitment for five months. A new volunteer handbook is being developed. A partnership with UW social work class (three student volunteers) was successful. - Mandated Community Service Volunteer Policy: Mandy reported receiving about 10 applications from individuals with mandated community service hours. She developed a policy statement stating that the senior center recruits volunteers who are intrinsically motivated, not fulfilling a mandate. Discussion ensued about whether this policy judges individuals needing second chances. The commission decided to revise the statement (removing the last five lines) and bring it back next month, and optionally ask other senior centers about their policies. - Rental and Independent Contractor Fees (Jill): Jill presented on fee structures for independent contractors and wellness providers. Currently, instructors offering classes are on an 80-20 split (center takes 20%). Wellness providers (foot care, massage, acupuncture) have varying arrangements (some pay 10%, some nothing). Jill surveyed other senior centers: most charge nothing or less (Colonial Club 10%, Stoughton 10%, Verona 10%, Northwest Dane $5 per person for foot care, Wanaki $25/month flat fee for acupuncture). Discussion leaned toward a flat fee for the wellness room (perhaps $25 per session) rather than a percentage, to simplify and ensure consistency. No decision was made; Jill will analyze numbers and bring a proposal. Key Outcomes - The minutes were approved. - The commission asked Jill and her team to revise the mandated volunteer policy statement (remove the last five lines) and bring it back for the March 12 meeting. Additionally, they will inquire with other senior centers about their practices. - Jill will further analyze fee structures for wellness services (considering flat fees for the wellness room) and present a proposal at a future meeting. - The pancake breakfast is scheduled for Sunday, April 19, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. - The travel show will be held April 7, 2026. - The next Commission on Aging Well meeting is March 12, 2026, with a working meeting to follow. - Members are to continue collecting prize donations for celebrity bingo (April 30). - Outreach to Limerick apartments planned for April 16. - Urban line dancing program (six weeks, Saturdays 10-11 a.m.) starts end of March, with early bird pricing. - AARP tax help available Fridays through tax season. - Transportation engineer Ross invited to March meeting to discuss bus route changes.

The Fitchburg Transportation and Transit Commission held its regular monthly meeting on February 12, 2026, starting at approximately 6:30 p.m. Commissioners reviewed staff updates, 2025 traffic crash data, and 2025 transit ridership statistics. No formal public testimony was heard. The commission approved the agenda and the minutes with a minor correction. Staff Report - Bus stop 4443 (Fish Hatchery Road): Staff recommended no action after one crash in five years (car rear-ended stopped bus). Metro Transit concurred. One email received in favor of keeping the stop. - University & East Campus Mall BRT stop: A new shelter for Route B will be added with North‑South BRT; historical building issues resolved for that location. - Program corrections: RoundTrip has a bike buddies program; Dane County Department of Human Services runs a bus buddies program. RoundTrip’s “How to Use B‑Cycle” event planned May 6 (rain date June 3) at McKee Farms Park, starting from senior center. - Beltline expansion: City of Madison passed a resolution recommending no expansion, following Fitchburg’s earlier resolution R‑13324. - Vision Zero / Comprehensive Safety Action Plan: Federal grant agreement now has no “poison pills”; Madison signed, allowing the regional plan to proceed. Fitchburg will hire a consultant via RFP. - Highway MM (Rimrock) project: 90% plans available; resurfacing/restriping adding bike buffers, new signals, ADA curb ramps. County‑led, construction planned for 2026. - Fitch‑Rona project: Delayed due to property acquisition issues; condemnation letters sent for four parcels (two in Verona, one in Fitchburg). State law prevents condemning land for mult‑use path; path may be removed in some areas. Extension of grant requested. - Whalen Road project: Bidding expected soon; adding paved shoulders between Fish Hatchery and Fitch‑Rona. 2025 Traffic Crash Data Presentation - Injury severity (KABCO): Fatalities: 2 (average 1). Major injuries: down 33%. Minor injuries: down 22%. Possible injuries: down 12%. Property damage only: essentially unchanged (337 vs 346 average). - Collision types: 68% moving vehicles, 13% fixed objects, 14% animals. Deer crashes excluded from further analysis. - Contributing factors: Speeding crashes increased significantly; construction zone crashes decreased (due to completion of Fish Hatchery project). Winter road crashes down (less snow/ice). 65+ driver involvement rose (attributed to population growth). - Vulnerable road users: 7 bicycle crashes (same as average), 0 pedestrian crashes (average 3). Data set small, draw conclusions cautiously. - Intersection crashes: 16% of road miles are intersections but account for 35% of crashes. - High‑injury network hot spots: Fitcherona & McKee, Verona Rd/151 & McKee, Post Rd & Fish Hatchery, Greenway Cross & Fish Hatchery. Transit Data (2025) - Ridership: BRT routes (including Route B) saw increased ridership; system‑wide ridership up after network redesign. Fare recovery lower than expected, contributing to Metro’s budget shortfall. - Paratransit: Large increase in first quarter; staff confirmed no seasonal pattern and will monitor. Paratransit trips are billed half‑and‑half between municipalities. - Fare types and revenue: Free fare trips explained as discounted or promotional passes; fare capping may generate free rides after 5 swipes per day. Commission Reports - Common Council: Approved a budget amendment for transit (approx. $15,000 increase for Metro payments and state aid). - Bike & Pedestrian Commission: Special meeting approved bike/ped plan. Governor’s Bicycle Coordinating Council reported on Badger State Trail tunnel reopening and Glacial Drumlin Trail connection. - Plan Commission: Approved rezone/plat for “Irish 1850” (25 single‑family homes, completing Notre Dame Drive to Lacey). Updated PDD for a dementia village (Grace) replacing half its hospice beds. Advanced Jamestown Quarry development (commercial junior boxes plus apartments behind). Also released RFPs for zoning code rewrite and comprehensive plan update. Future Agenda Items - Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (when consultant RFP is ready). - Traffic Impact Analysis ordinance change (expanding requirements). - Speed limit sign ordinance (delegating authority to staff). - Potential cancellations of March meeting if no urgent referrals. Key Outcomes - Approved agenda as submitted (motion and voice vote). - Approved minutes of previous meeting with friendly amendment to correct “Rosa Park Day” to “Rosa Parks’ birthday” (voice vote). - No other formal votes; meeting adjourned by motion.

The Tree Advisory Committee met on February 12, 2026 at 4:06 PM with a quorum of four members. The meeting covered approval of previous minutes and the agenda, a public hearing and vote on a property use agreement for the Kyle Stegert Greenway (Resolution R2726), planning for Arbor Day 2026, a public hearing on the Strategic Urban Forestry Management Plan, and a departmental report. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the previous meeting by voice vote (all ayes). - Approved the agenda for the current meeting by voice vote (all ayes). Public Comments & Testimony - Kyle Stegert Greenway (Resolution R2726): Dawn Stegert, widow of Kyle Stegert and board member of Friends of the Kyle Stegert Greenway Inc., reported that the organization has received 501(c)(3) status, raised an additional $16,000 via a virtual fundraiser (bringing total funds to over $30,000), and expanded its board to seven members. She stated that invasive vegetation on the site has been largely cleared and emphasized the group's commitment to collaborating with the city. Steve Arnold, treasurer of the organization, noted discrepancies in the resolution's documentation (misspelling of "Stegert" and mismatch between "property use agreement" and "property improvement agreement") and explained that the plans have been refined from conceptual to construction-ready without substantive changes. He identified that only 8 box elder trees and a dead crab apple tree would be removed. The group expressed confidence that the project would be privately maintained with minimal burden on city staff. - Strategic Urban Forestry Management Plan Public Hearing: Elizabeth Thompson (Greenfield Neighborhood) spoke in support of a citywide woodlot management policy and urged inclusion of fire risk assessment, dead debris removal, and invasive species control. She asked that the plan apply to the entire city, not just the urban service area. Written comments from Dennis Moore and Patrick Cheney asked that all survey responses and past resolution R 1718 be included and published in the plan. Consultant Rich responded that the plan summarizes comments, but full verbatim comments are available; committee member Micah offered to discuss editorial choices further. Discussion Items - Resolution R2726 – Kyle Stegert Greenway: Anna (City Forester) expressed concerns about maintenance burdens on city staff but acknowledged that the agreement makes the applicant responsible for most maintenance. She noted that path mowing would be added to an existing park maintenance route and that outside contractors would be used instead of volunteers, easing staff involvement. Committee members discussed funding sufficiency; Steve Arnold confirmed that the agreement maintains a minimum deposit of $2,500, with any shortfall falling on the applicant. The committee approved the resolution as amended by the Parks Commission, with a further amendment to reference "construction plan" rather than "conceptual design." - Arbor Day 2026: Anna proposed holding Arbor Day at Western Hills Park in the Hugo Jamestown neighborhood on April 24 or 25, 2026. Trees would be fully funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, with support from the Urban Tree Alliance for watering. After committee approval, Anna will proceed with planning. A separate grant for tree planting at Chicory Meadows was also received for an Earth Day event. - Strategic Urban Forestry Management Plan – Draft Review: Consultant Rich presented the draft plan, reporting that Fitchburg’s tree diversity is "exceptional," canopy cover increased from 18% to 24% over the past decade (a 30% relative increase), and the city is understaffed compared to peers. The plan outlines five strategic goals aligned with the comprehensive plan. Committee member Linda requested stronger integration of tree preservation in new development; Anna and Rich agreed to add a new objective (2.5) on best management practices for trees and construction. The Chair noted that language should clarify that the plan applies citywide. - Department Report: Anna reported that spring tree planting for 263 street trees has been put out to bid; the city received the Gold Leaf Award for Arbor Day activities; a Million Trees grant was awarded for Chicory Meadows; the city forester is now part of the Public Works department, improving collaboration on construction-related tree preservation; emerald ash borer removals are under contract, with all replacement trees included in spring planting; and volunteer groups are active, including support from the Ripple Effects plant program. Key Outcomes - Resolution R2726 (Kyle Stegert Greenway) was approved by voice vote (all ayes) with the Parks Commission amendment and an additional committee amendment changing "conceptual design" to "construction plan." - Arbor Day 2026 concept endorsed; Anna will coordinate with the Urban Tree Alliance for a tree planting event at Western Hills Park in April 2026. - Public hearing on the Strategic Urban Forestry Management Plan closed with requests for several revisions, including a new objective on tree preservation during construction and citywide applicability. Consultant Rich will incorporate feedback and produce a revised draft by the end of February 2026. - The committee adjourned at 5:11 PM (motion by Micah, seconded, all in favor).

The Fitchburg Personnel Committee met on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. According to the transcript, the meeting was called to order at 6:03 p.m., though the transcript also contains a 5:03 p.m. reference and an adjournment time of 5:10 p.m., so the exact times are inconsistent. The committee, described as a three-member body, had two members present for the approvals. The committee approved the prior meeting minutes, a police union memorandum of understanding, and an employee handbook policy update, heard no public comment, and announced the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved the November 12, 2025 Personnel Committee meeting minutes by the two members present. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public appeared for non-agenda items. Discussion Items - MOU with the police union (WPPA/WTPA): City staff explained that a new federal law allows eligible employees to deduct some overtime pay from federal taxes. The MOU establishes a 28-day work period from 2025 through 2028 for non-exempt police employees (police officers, detectives, sergeants, and the lieutenant), a work period commonly used by other police departments and matching the fire department. Staff noted the city previously paid overtime based on more than eight hours in a day rather than 40 hours in a week. Overtime pay and the union contract will not change; the work period is only for calculating overtime eligibility for the federal tax deduction. The MOU defines the work period and ensures it is in the union contract. - Employee handbook update: The committee reviewed track changes on page 135 of the employee handbook, updating the IT policy that applies to all city employees and, when the contract is silent, union employees. The strengthened policy prohibits using systems containing personal or sensitive information for personal interest, even out of curiosity, and requires a strictly approved business need. An example was HR access to Department of Transportation driver abstracts to monitor employees who drive for work; the same access cannot be used to look up someone personally. Staff said the change was not prompted by any employee incident, but followed broader conversations about surveillance and ongoing policy review. Announcements - Monthly HR reports: The committee publicized a pathway to monthly reports on the city website: Fitchburg WI.gov Services Communications Department Newsletters and Reports. Staff member Sarah said the reports include special projects, initiatives, recruitments, and turnover, and every city department produces these monthly reports. - Next meeting: The next Personnel Committee meeting is scheduled for April 8, 2026, at 5 p.m. Key Outcomes - Approved the November 12, 2025 Personnel Committee meeting minutes by the two members present. - Approved the MOU establishing a 28-day work period with the police union (WPPA/WTPA) for 2025 through 2028 by the two members present, with no objections. - Approved the employee handbook IT policy update on page 135 by the two members present. - Adjourned at 5:10 p.m. per the transcript, subject to the time inconsistency noted above.

The Healthy Neighborhood Advisory Committee (HNAC) of Fitchburg, Wisconsin, convened on February 11, 2026, starting at 5:35 PM without a quorum. The meeting was officially called to order at 6:09 PM once quorum was achieved. The agenda centered on refining grant evaluation criteria for 2026, discussing the name of the Healthy Neighborhoods Plan, and reviewing a preliminary working draft of the strategic plan. The meeting adjourned at 7:04 PM. Consent Calendar - The committee unanimously approved the meeting minutes from December 10, 2025, and January 14, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present or joined online for public appearances. Discussion Items 2026 Grant Evaluation Priorities (Agenda Item 5A) - Staff outlined the shift to funding approximately seven organizations at $25,000 each, up from 14 organizations in previous years, necessitating clearer justifications for denial. The committee discussed whether to rank the five focus areas (youth mentoring, youth education, adult education, food security, neighborhood/community building) or treat them equally. - Positions: Chabuza advocated for treating all focus areas as equal. Caitlin suggested prioritizing the evaluation sub-criteria (significance, innovation, sustainable outcomes) over the focus areas themselves, and stressed the importance of equitable distribution across the four priority neighborhoods. Ari expressed support for youth mentoring and food security but struggled to formally prioritize. - The committee agreed that equitable neighborhood distribution should be a top priority. - Key Decision on Applicant Questions: The committee refined a standardized question for all applicants. The final question, drafted by the committee and staff, asks applicants to "describe the critical gap your organization is filling and provide evidence, metrics, and data on how you have identified the critical need and how your work alleviates it." Renaming the Healthy Neighborhoods Plan (Agenda Item 5B) - Staff raised concerns that the term "Healthy Neighborhoods" might be misinterpreted by the public as describing already-thriving areas rather than neighborhoods needing resources. - Positions: Ari stated the name has name recognition and changing it would cause more friction than it is worth. Chabuza stated the name makes sense because the plan's goal is to make neighborhoods healthy. Caitlin agreed there was no compelling reason to change. - Outcome: The committee decided to retain the name "Healthy Neighborhood Strategic Plan." Working Draft of Healthy Neighborhoods Plan (Agenda Item 5C) - Staff presented a very early working draft of the updated strategic plan. The structure included a city profile, neighborhood-specific profiles (for North Fish, Southdale, and Verona Road West/King James Way), data from census and summer 2025 outreach, land use maps, and community assets. - Positions: Caitlin noted the lack of pillars for childcare, healthcare, and language access, and suggested more input from neighborhood resource teams. Staff responded that the objectives were kept intentionally broad to allow flexibility over the five-year plan and that data collection has time constraints. - The committee offered positive feedback on the structural framework and will receive a full draft for edits later. Key Outcomes - Grant Evaluation Criteria: The committee will use the refined applicant question regarding critical gaps and metrics. All committee members are expected to evaluate every application. Presentations are scheduled for the March meeting. - Plan Name Retained: The "Healthy Neighborhood Strategic Plan" name will not be changed. - Department Updates: The Microgrant program is under legal review. The Housing Plan final draft is open for public comment. The Neighborhood Navigator position is open for applications. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:04 PM.

The Fitchburg Common Council held its regular meeting on February 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included two mayoral proclamations, approval of the consent agenda, administrative and mayoral reports, multiple commission and committee reports, consideration of several resolutions, a closed session on a claim, and alderperson updates. Key actions included approval of a new inclusive playground shelter design, joining the Renew the Blue council, applying for the LEED for Cities cohort program, and authorizing fire/police training at a former building. Proclamations - Black History Month: Mayor Julia Ratafrata proclaimed February 2026 as Black History Month in Fitchburg, recognizing the contributions of Black Americans and the centennial of national commemorations. Members of the Black community attended and expressed gratitude. - Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week: The council proclaimed February 7–14, 2026, as Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week, highlighting the prevalence and lifelong nature of the condition. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously without any items removed. Administrative Report (City Administrator Chad) - Primary Election Reminder: A primary for Dane County Circuit Court judge will be held Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Polls open 7 AM to 8 PM. Polling location changes were noted: about half of District 2 residents near Fish Hatchery Road will vote at the newly named Ho-Chunk location; Wards 19 and 20 will vote at Blackhawk Church instead of Fire Station 1. In-person absentee voting is available through Friday, February 13 at 5 PM. - 2026 Housing Plan Update: Resolution R-19-26 approving the 2026 housing plan update is on consent. Comments are due by February 20 to housing specialist Lorene Gage. The Housing Advisory Committee will discuss it March 2 at 4 PM; CEDA will make a recommendation March 26 at 7 AM. - Mobile Home Park: Staff continue to monitor conditions in District 4. A meeting with county agencies (treasurer, corporation counsel, Public Health Madison Dane County, Dane County Human Services) is scheduled for later next week to seek additional resources. - Non-Disclosure Agreements: City staff have not signed any NDAs regarding data centers. The administration clarified that signing such agreements would be problematic from a transparency standpoint. - Fire Union Contract Arbitration: Day one of arbitration occurred; a second day is scheduled for February 27. No third day is anticipated. - Joint Fire/EMS District: A meeting was held with Fitchburg, Oregon, Verona, Stoughton, and McFarland. Fitchburg and Oregon jointly released an RFP to create a roadmap for a joint fire/EMS district. RFP responses are due March 3; a contract may come to council in March. - Other: Summer seasonal positions posted; staff participated in an MGE video on commercial EV fleets; appreciation extended to Zimbrick employees and public safety for responding to a vehicle-into-building incident. Mayor's Report - Mayors Innovation Project: Mayor Ratafrata attended the conference in Washington, DC (Jan 30-31), covering topics like protecting elected officials, fiscal playbooks, child care ecosystems, and age-friendly cities. The summer conference will be in Madison. - League of Wisconsin Municipalities: Supported bills include addressing PFAS liability, banning drones over municipal utilities, energy storage payments, improving housing loan access, increasing municipal court fees, and modernizing public construction bidding thresholds (from $25,000 to $50,000). - EV Charging Stations: The Dane County Office of Energy and Climate Change received a $13 million DOT grant. Four sites in Fitchburg were selected for Level 2 chargers: State Bridge Suites, Hotel Nesbit, Boys & Girls Club, Greenway Cross Apartments, and McKee Farms Park parking lot. - Stormwater & Renew the Blue: The mayor participated in a Renew the Blue panel and noted the city's work on stormwater, watershed protection, and phosphorus reduction. - Comprehensive Plan & Zoning Code: The RFP for the comp plan and zoning code update is out for about a month. Commission & Committee Reports - Plan Commission: Meets next week. - Public Works (Director Ben): 2026 street resurfacing will be advertised Feb 13; bids open late Feb. Petrona Road Goose Lake Stormwater Project (culverts) will be bid in March. Bellmar neighborhood street work will await utility completion (due Sept 1), then streets done this fall. Resolution R-26-26 (Swan Creek monitoring station) was approved unanimously. Funding from stormwater utility, not property taxes. - Parks Commission (Alder Dave): Reviewed urban forestry plan; discussed a nonprofit bike rest station along the Capital City Trail. Resolution R-36-26 for inclusive playground shelter at McKee Farms Park was approved with park commission selecting design Option B (more consistent with Stoner Prairie shelter, less swallow attraction). The shelter will be accessible and provide shade/rain protection. Alder Dave opposed, arguing trees would suffice. Vote: approved with one nay. Resolution R-37-26 for replacement of picnic tables and benches at Stoner Prairie, Southdale, and Tower Hill parks was approved by roll call: all 8 alders present voted aye (Alder Dancer Jr., Gerhard, Herbst, Jetzer, Latase, Lepper, Maldonado, Ragstan). - Commission on Aging (Donna): Black History Month luncheon at the Milton House had about 80 attendees, orchestrated by Janice Hughes. Department restructure is underway with Jessica Wolf moving to the senior center. - Resource Conservation Commission (Alder?): Discussed stormwater CIP items, MS4 annual report, strategic objectives. Since Oct 27, 2025, 5,350 pounds of food scraps collected. Phil Gruppi presented at NASECA conference. Quarry Hill Pond dredging complete; Techlands infiltration basin nearing completion. Resolution R-32-26 to join the Renew the Blue council was approved unanimously. The council is a cross-sector cohort focused on Yahara watershed initiatives; one-year commitment at $2,000 from stormwater utility. Alder Dave expressed skepticism, but the mayor and others emphasized partnership and education benefits. - Transportation & Transit Commission: Meets Thursday. - Community & Economic Development Authority: Meets Thursday (meeting later canceled). - Agricultural & Rural Affairs Committee: Meets next Tuesday. - Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission: No update. - EMS Commission: Has not met; will meet next week. - Healthy Neighborhoods Committee: Meets tomorrow evening; working on grant process. - Housing Advisory Committee: Meets March 2 at 4 PM for housing plan discussion. - Landmarks Preservation Commission: May need to meet soon regarding a historic property owner wanting to make improvements. - Three Advisory Committee: Meets Feb 12 at 4 PM for public hearing on urban forestry plan (feedback open until Feb 24). - Community & Equity Committee: Met last week; discussed reviewing plans with equity lens and planning Black History Month events. - MPO Policy Board (Alder): Reported 13 public comments opposing Beltline expansion. Metro awarded low/no emission grant for hybrid buses (85% federal funding). City of Madison extending Capital City Trail to meet Glacial Drumlin Trail; railroad crossing issue forces longer route. Sun Prairie awarded Safe Streets for All grant for vision zero planning. Upcoming road projects: Beltline (2033), I-39/90 reconstruction ($238M planning, $65M right-of-way). MPO drafting guidance for e-bike and e-mobility regulation. Discussion Items (New Business) - Resolution R-43-26 – LEED for Cities Cohort: Authorized staff to apply for the 2026 LEED for Cities and Communities cohort program (free technical assistance). Phil Gruppi explained that data from the sustainability plan can be reused. Letters of support from Middleton, Madison, Sustain Dane, Dane County. Potential $8,000 cost for certification application next year. Approved unanimously. - Resolution R-50-26 – Bowman Plaza Training Agreement: Authorized agreement for Fitchburg police and fire to conduct scenario-based training at the former Bowman Plaza building before redevelopment begins (likely mid-April). Destructive training allowed inside. Outreach to neighbors via signage and social media planned. Approved unanimously. Closed Session - The council moved into closed session to confer with legal counsel on strategy regarding a claim filed by Corey Webster (Wis. Stat. § 19.85(1)(g)). After reconvening, the council directed staff to move forward as discussed. Alderperson Reports & Announcements - Alder Logan (Dist. 3) reported on a neighborhood meeting for