Public Meetings - Fitchburg, Wisconsin

The Community and Economic Development Authority (CETA) met on September 24, 2026, at 7:05 AM. Chair Mark Hamilton called the meeting to order with a quorum present. The meeting covered updates on the Revolving Loan Fund, a presentation from the Fitchburg Chamber and Business Bureau, and various housing and economic development reports. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the August 27, 2026 meeting were approved with a minor amendment regarding wording on restaurant business and property ownership. Motion carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made for non-agenda items. Discussion Items 1. Fitchburg Revolving Loan Fund: The committee discussed potential updates to the loan fund guidelines, which had not been revised since the early 2000s. Members noted that the fund has been rarely used, with only a few past loans (e.g., to Pinnacle). Discussion centered on removing the explicit prohibition on restaurants and alcohol-licensed businesses, given changed market conditions and comparative failure rates. Some members suggested excluding vape shops and gas stations. The committee agreed to form a workgroup (members Jake and Mario volunteered) and requested all members submit comments to staff within two weeks for review before the next meeting. 2. Fitchburg Chamber and Visitor Bureau Update: Angela Kinderman and Brandon Rounds presented data on tourism impact (2024 Dane County economic impact data), social media growth (Facebook followers up over 100%, Instagram up 4,000%), and events such as the Brewery Ride (100 riders, plus additional capacity this year, attracting visitors from Chicago and other states), Concerts at McKee (thousands per concert), and the Holiday Lights Tour (over 30,000 social media views and 200,000 map views). They requested a $5,000 sponsorship from CETA for the Holiday Lights Tour and Get Festive at Agora event. After discussion, the committee voted to approve the sponsorship. Key Outcomes - Revolving Loan Fund Workgroup: A workgroup was formed (Jake and Mario, plus staff and possibly the city attorney) to review the loan fund guidelines. All committee members should send their comments to Joyce within two weeks. - Chamber Sponsorship Approved: The motion to provide $5,000 in hotel room tax funds to the Fitchburg Chamber for the Holiday Lights Tour and Get Festive at Agora passed by voice vote with no opposition. - Housing and Development Updates Noted: The committee received reports on the Housing Stability Program (launching mid-November), Down Payment Assistance (early 2025), CDBG Pro Housing RFP (within two months), Efficiency Navigator (10 buildings, $311K under budget), and a new housing concept from Mahogany Realty Group (senior/missing middle ownership). Other updates included demolition of Bowman Plaza, upcoming openings for Chick-fil-A and Chase Bank, and progress on various construction projects. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for October 22, 2026.

This was a municipal court arraignment and sentencing session held on September 24, 2026, in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, presided over by the judge. The court heard a series of cases involving traffic violations, operating while intoxicated (OWI), and other city ordinance offenses. The judge explained the plea process, the consequences of convictions (fines, demerit points, license revocation, potential jail), and the court's philosophy of individualized justice. Discussion Items - The judge outlined three plea options: not guilty, guilty, and no contest. He emphasized that for OWI first offenses in Wisconsin the conviction is civil, but subsequent offenses become criminal with mandatory prison time. - He stated that for alcohol- or drug-related citations, and for city ordinances with criminal parallels, he will not compromise the verdict or reduce fines. - The judge noted that defendants could present mitigating circumstances, and he would consider prior record to individualize outcomes. - He warned that unpaid fines could lead to a warrant for arrest and up to 90 days in jail, with a $50 credit per day but an $85 daily jail maintenance fee. Key Outcomes - First OWI case (0.19 BAC, no children, no accident): Plea no contest. Fine $1,046, 8-month license revocation, mandatory assessment, IID for 1 year. Also failure to keep vehicle under control: $78, 3 points. - Michael Schaller (stop sign violation): Plea no contest. Reduced fine $78, 2 points (removable after 1 year clean record). - Having Grisham (OWI 0.15, guilty): Fine $933, 7-month revocation, mandatory assessment, 6 points, IID waived. Also failure to keep vehicle under control: $92, 3 points. - Jacob Lester (zone speeding 72 in 50): Plea no contest. Reduced fine $134, 4 points. - Colin Bundy (operating under influence of controlled substance): Plea no contest. Fine $996, 6-month revocation, mandatory assessment, 6 points. - Heather Kirkpatrick (red light violation): Plea no contest. Reduced fine $78, 2 points. - Abby Abersheim (stop sign): Plea not guilty. Case set for trial with prosecutor. - Shakira Ward (underage, 17): Treated as adult; mother present; no disposition recorded. - Cody Ball (fireworks violation): Plea no contest. Judge noted limited latitude; fine not specified. - Grace Owen (zone speeding 53 in 35): Plea no contest. Reduced fine $92, 3 points. - Anthony Fisher (OWI 0.14, possession of drug paraphernalia, reckless driving): Pleas no contest. OWI: fine $933, 7-month revocation, mandatory assessment, 6 points; paraphernalia: $323; reckless driving: $96, 6 points. Total fines $1,352. - Rebecca Barry (failure to yield left turn): Plea no contest. Reduced fine $78, 3 points. - Aiden Hughes (underage alcohol consumption): Plea no contest. Fine $197, 60 days to pay. - Julie Wellbourn (inattentive driving): Plea no contest. Fine $48, no points. - Jose Accamani (multiple citations including OWI 0.19 with accident, no license, no insurance): Pleas guilty. OWI: fine $1,109; no license: $134; no insurance: $134; failure to keep vehicle under control: $146. Revocation, mandatory assessment. - Gomez Zarko (OWI 0.15, open intoxicant, no valid license): Pleas guilty. OWI treated as 0.149: fine $933, 7-month revocation, mandatory assessment, 6 points; open intoxicant and no license reduced to $78 each and 3 points. - Another case (OWI refusal, no lamps, driving while suspended): Guilty to OWI refusal; fine at maximum, 1-year suspension, mandatory assessment; lamps and suspended charges reduced. - Renee Perez Torres (OWI 0.09, no valid license): Guilty. OWI: fine $870, 6-month revocation, mandatory assessment, 6 points; no license: $134, 3 points. - David Valencia (OWI 0.15, open intoxicant): Guilty. OWI treated as 0.149: fine $933, 7-month revocation, mandatory assessment, 6 points; open intoxicant: $197. - Victor Trin turn a dad (no lamps, open intoxicant): Plead not guilty to open intoxicant; case referred to prosecutor for plea bargain. - Kamar Aiden (red light): Initially not guilty, then changed to guilty after discussion with judge; specific penalty not recorded. - Brian Torres (motion to reopen 3-year-old no-insurance case): Judge expressed reluctance but considered the motion; no final decision stated. The session concluded with the judge noting that all cases were handled.

The meeting focused on applying the city's equity rubric to the Comprehensive Housing Study and Action Plan. Members shared individual scores and feedback, discussed how to present findings to staff, and planned next steps for incorporating equity considerations into future plans. The committee also discussed upcoming community events and raised the possibility of developing a citywide non-discrimination ordinance. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes from August 26, 2026. Discussion Items - Equity Rubric Application to Housing Plan: Members Jessica, Sarah, and others presented their scores and comments on the housing plan using the equity rubric. Key themes included: the plan lacks a clear equity outcome, data was not disaggregated by race, community engagement was not broken down by identity, strategies were income-targeted rather than disparity-targeted, implementation was strong but accountability metrics were supply-focused rather than equity-focused. Members noted the plan was developed before the rubric existed, so feedback is meant to guide future plans. - Process for Delivering Feedback: The committee agreed to compile individual rubrics and comments, then produce a one-page executive summary with an average score (e.g., “approve with conditions”) and attach full feedback as an appendix. The chair will collect data from members via email to staff (Sarah) to avoid quorum issues. - Future Use of Rubric: Members discussed presenting the rubric to department heads early in plan development, possibly through a training session at a department heads meeting. The committee expressed willingness to help walk staff through the tool. - Non-Discrimination Ordinance: A member proposed exploring a citywide non-discrimination ordinance covering housing, businesses, etc., noting Fitchburg currently relies on state and federal policies. Members agreed to research similar municipalities (e.g., Madison, Verona, Sun Prairie) and discuss at the October 28 meeting. - Current Events: Recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, a proclamation by the mayor, and a Ho-Chunk Nation flag raising at City Hall. Upcoming events: Fire Station 2 open house (Oct. 10), YWCA Racial Justice Summit (Oct. 7-8; last day to register was Sept. 23). Key Outcomes - The committee will compile individual rubric scores and comments and produce a consolidated executive summary with an overall recommendation (approve with conditions) to be sent to the relevant department. - Staff (Sarah) will look into creating a digital form to standardize rubric submissions and allow aggregation of scores, pending open meeting law compliance. - The chair will collect members’ rubric data (via email to Sarah) and prepare the summary. - The committee will present the rubric and provide training to department heads at a future meeting (schedule to be determined). - A discussion on a non-discrimination ordinance will be added to the October 28, 2026 meeting agenda. Members will research ordinances in peer cities. - Next regular meeting scheduled for October 28, 2026 at the same time and location.

The Committee of the Whole met on September 23, 2026 at 6:32 PM, adjourning at 8:16 PM. The meeting included a presentation and discussion on a comprehensive communications guide and a presentation and discussion on the Mayor’s goals and priorities for 2026–2029. No public appearances were made for non-agenda items. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The draft minutes of the August 26, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote (motion by Alder Dancler, seconded by Alder Jetzer). Discussion Items - Presentation and Discussion on Communications Guidelines: Brian Lee of Revelation, a communications firm specializing in local government, presented a 60-page communications guide for the City of Fitchburg. The guide was developed following an audit of current communications, anonymous interviews with staff and elected officials, and a review of job descriptions. Key features include standard operating procedures for six categories of communications activities (e.g., city projects, community events, referenda), a media relations guide with a decision tree and press release template, social media guidelines (including recommendations for Instagram and repurposing content from “Talking Fitchburg” into short videos), and a job description for a communications director (created as part of a previous referendum effort; an alternate scenario divvies up duties among existing staff with priority levels). The guide also includes cost estimates and key performance indicators. Council members and the Mayor provided feedback and suggestions: Alder Gearhart praised the plug-and-play nature and recommended using direct mail (noting that return rates have risen to 10% or more from less than 1% a decade ago); Alder Herbst emphasized repurposing content and suggested including more specific outreach tactics for events (e.g., signage for McKee Farms Park events); Mayor Radafrata called for incorporating Instagram and La Movida radio to reach younger and Latino demographics; Alder Jetzer asked about printed materials and the recent discontinuation of physical distribution of the Fitchburg Star, suggesting a one-pager for grocery bags or food pantries; Alder Micah proposed adding a section on budget/finance communications and recommended that the referenda section use neutral talking points and avoid KPI language like “sentiment” (Brian Lee agreed to adjust wording); Alder Gearhart and Alder Micah also stressed the need for an official city website portal for alder newsletters (currently some alders fund their own) and for continuity across elected officials. Brian Lee noted the guide should be reviewed annually and that the Fitchburg Connect e-newsletter is the current citywide solution for elected official communications. - Presentation and Discussion on Mayor’s Goals and Priorities 2026–2029: Mayor Radafrata presented a draft document outlining eight priorities with associated goals and action items, developed in collaboration with City Administrator Chad and Deputy Administrator Adam. The eight priorities are: (1) Sustainable Growth and Development, (2) Strengthening Community Housing Stock, (3) Investing in Infrastructure While Maintaining Strong Financial Stewardship, (4) A City That Works for All, (5) Sustainability, (6) Regional Collaboration, (7) Focus on Effective Processes and Succession Planning, and (8) Enhance Trust in City Budgeting and Promote Financial Transparency for Taxpayers. Council members reviewed each priority section in turn, offering specific feedback: For Priority 1, Alder Jetzer recommended adding transit-oriented development and identified missing language about concentrating density; Alder Bills commended the ambition but asked if long-term items should be included alongside shorter-term actions. For Priority 2, Alder Micah suggested linking housing goals to infill and redevelopment; Mayor Radafrata noted the need to open more land for housing. For Priority 3, Alder Micah pointed out that action item 7 (assess citywide staffing) seemed misplaced and would fit better under Priority 4 or 7. For Priority 4, council discussed moving some action items (e.g., implementing communications guide, new payroll software) to Priority 7 as internal processes; Alder Herbst requested adding employee engagement survey results. For Priority 5 (Sustainability), Alder Jetzer questioned the feasibility of electrifying the entire fleet; staff clarified the goal is to prioritize EVs where feasible, and Alder Bilski suggested exploring biodiesel for snowplows. For Priority 6 (Regional Collaboration), Alder Jetzer noted the importance of shared services (e.g., a sustainability specialist); Mayor Radafrata confirmed discussions with Verona on a shared position; Alder Bills suggested expanding collaboration to all elected officials. For Priority 7, Alder Herbst recommended considering the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) for staff leadership. For Priority 8, Alder Jetzer praised tax information education; Alder Micah suggested adding a goal to utilize the Affordable Housing Fund and creative TIF tools for housing. Council members broadly praised the document as a comprehensive, living set of priorities. Deputy Administrator Adam noted that after incorporating council feedback, a polished version will be shared with the council. Key Outcomes - Communications Guide: The city will consider incorporating council feedback (e.g., expanded use of Instagram, direct mail, La Movida radio, clarifying referendum section language) and the guide will be implemented with annual reviews. - Mayor’s Goals and Priorities: Deputy Administrator Adam will clean up the document based on council comments, work with the Mayor and City Administrator, and share a revised version with the council. - Next Meetings: The next Committee of the Whole meeting is scheduled for October 28, 2026 at 6:00 PM (earlier start due to budget discussions). Two special budget presentation nights will be held on Tuesday, September 29 and Wednesday, September 30, 2026, both at 5:30 PM (Wednesday includes the Mayor’s presentation).

The Fitchburg Common Council met on September 22, 2026, with Mayor Julia Aratafrata presiding and all eight alders present, establishing a quorum. The meeting included proclamations, public comments, administrative and mayor's reports, and action on multiple resolutions and ordinances covering bond issuance, land use approvals, contract renewals, and fee adjustments. 宣告 - Hispanic Heritage Month: Mayor proclaimed September 15 – October 15, 2026 as Hispanic Heritage Month, recognizing the contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities and the city's commitment to equity. - Week Without Driving: October 1–8, 2026 was proclaimed as Week Without Driving. Statistics cited: 30% of Wisconsinites, 30–40% of Dane County residents, and at least 40% of Fitchburg residents are non-drivers; average annual vehicle ownership cost exceeds $12,000. - Period Action Day: October 10, 2026 was proclaimed as Period Action Day. The Fitchburg Period Products Pantry reported donating over 14,000 pads and 9,000 tampons to local organizations since its founding in March 2026. 同意议程 - The consent agenda was approved with the removal of Resolution R187-26 (referred to Personnel Committee) and Ordinance 2026-030 (ferred to Parks and Tree Advisory Committees). 公众评论 - David Haight (585 Woods Edge Road) spoke multiple times in opposition to several agenda items. He argued that the council's practice of bypassing the Plan Commission for comprehensive plan amendments violates state law, questioned NR 103 wetland compliance for projects draining into Swan Creek and the Wabisa Wetland State Natural Area, criticized the general language in the bond resolution, and objected to the structure of the stormwater rate increase. He called for greater transparency and public accountability. - Patrick Cheney expressed support for the Lacey Road/Fahey Glen project, stating it fits with existing densities. - Sam Cook, representing the property owner, supported the Lacey Road project, noting that stormwater will flow to regional ponds and that many nearby neighbors are in favor. 行政报告 - Annual Fire Department Open House: Friday, October 10, 9 a.m. – noon at Fire House No. 2 on Marketplace Drive. - SESTA groundbreaking in Terravesa neighborhood: Monday, October 12, 1 p.m. - YMCA groundbreaking on McKee Road: Wednesday, October 13, morning. - McDonald's ribbon cutting: October 13, 3:30 p.m. - Fall recycling event rescheduled to Saturday, October 24, 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. at City Hall (originally September 20, canceled due to wet weather). - Wet weather is causing delays in outdoor projects (utility work, road construction, park improvements). 市长报告 - Fitchburg received two Dane County Climate Champion Awards: a three-star building design award for the new police services facility (featuring rooftop solar, geothermal HVAC) and a three-star renewable energy award for the public works maintenance garage (100% renewable electricity). - The proposed 2027 budget was released; the mayor will present it to the Finance Committee next week. Office hours are available for questions. - A community listening session for District 1 is scheduled for September 24, 6–8 p.m. at Blue Plate Catering. - The fire department achieved 87% staffing of four personnel on the fire engine in August. - Mayor attended the Dane County City-Village Association meeting. - Alder Dave Herft was recognized as the new board member to the Madison Metropolitan Sewer District. 讨论项目及关键成果 1. Bond Issuance – Resolution R1962 Authorized the sale of up to $22,230,000 in General Obligation Promissory Notes, Series 2026A, for projects including the police facility ($20M), Fitchona Road improvements ($200K), Kids Crossing playground ($315K), and City Hall remodeling ($825K). Staff explained that the parameters resolution allows flexibility in sale timing and sets a maximum true interest cost of 4.43%. Public comment David Haight requested explicit project listing and expressed concern about delegating award to staff. After discussion, the resolution was approved unanimously on a roll call vote (8-0). The debt service levy for 2027 is projected to increase by about $10 for a $500,000 property. 2. Affordable Housing at Traceway – Resolution R1826 & Ordinance 2026-027 aApproved a Certified Survey Map (CS 2665-26) to create two lots from one, and a rezone from PDD-GIP to PDD-SIP for a 140-unit affordable housing development (70 units in Phase 1, funded by 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits). Units will serve 30-80% AMI. Plan Commission approved with conditions. Both passed on voice votes (unanimous). 3. Lacey Road / Fahey Glen Development – Resolution R1832 & Ordinance 2026-028 aApproved a CSM and a rezone to PDD-GIP for 52 housing units (8 duplexes and 3 townhome rows). Duplexes will be sold; townhomes will use a rent-to-own model. The development will extend Quarry Hill Drive. Plan Commission added conditions for a public meeting before SIP submittal and for tree preservation. Public comment raised concerns about NR103 compliance. Both passed on voice votes (unanimous). 4. Nine Springs Hills Final Plat & Trilogy Assisted Living – Resolution R18426 & Ordinance 2026-029 aApproved a final plat creating 38 buildable lots and an ordinance rezoning a portion for a Trilogy assisted living and memory care facility (119 units). All roads except Pert Street will be private. The facility includes a dog run, screened refuse area, and backup generator. Public comment questioned NR103 and stormwater compliance. Public Works Director Tim stated that stormwater calculations are not yet submitted but will be reviewed when received. Both passed on voice votes (unanimous). a 5. Terravesa Replat – Resolution R18526 aApproved a final plat to replat 4 lots into 16 zero-lot-line ownership homes on Parsnip Drive. Homes are expected to sell for $430,000 (1,680 sq ft, 3-bedroom). Discussion covered rental vs. ownership; staff stated the city cannot regulate tenure. Alder Logan presented data showing the development aligns with the original Northeast Neighborhood Plan (targeting 65% single-family, 35% multi-family; current multi-family share is 36%, rising to 43% with this project). Passed unanimously on a voice vote. 6. Brush and Yard Waste Processing Contract – Resolution R15226 aApproved a three-year contract (2027-2029) with Purple Cow Organics for $83,000 total ($27,000 in 2027, with incremental increases). The service is part of the garbage collection fee. Passed unianimously. n 7. Stormwater Utility Rate Increase – Resolution R15526 aApproved a 5% increase in stormwater rates, effective 2027, to sustain operations through 2032. Base rate increase is 13.6%; intensity rate unchanged. Public comment David Haight argued the increase disproportionately affects single-family homes versus commercial properties. Discussion acknowledged the imbalance but noted it is a modest increase. Passed on a voice vote (unanimous). 8. Public Water Main Easement – Resolution R17726 aAccepted a 10x10 foot easement around a fire hydrant in Highfield Reserve. Approved unanimously. 9. Safe Kids Lease Amendment – Resolution R1952 aApproved a lease renewal with Safe Kids Madison Area Coalition (UW Health) at Fire Station 1 for two years plus three one-year options, increasing annual rent from $18,000 to $33,000. Passed unianimously. n 10. Justice Assistance Grant – Resolution R1972 aAccepted an Edward Byrne Memorial JAG grant for $11,000 to the Fitchburg Police Department for data analysis software. (Madison receives $84,000 and Dane County $5,000). Approved unanimously. 委员会报告（精选） - Library Board: Met September 16; conducted annual director evaluation; approved 2027 budget with a $2 surplus; library fully staffed. - Commission on Aging: Hispanic participation doubled with new bilingual staff; senior center activities. - Resource Conservation Commission: Stormwater Awareness Week events; rescheduled recycling event; sustainability tour September 27. - EMS Commission: 25 ambulance calls in September; additional peak-hour coverage in budget will help. - Equity Committees: Various updates on housing plan and community engagement. 议会委员报告 - Alders reported on community events including the Allied Danesmoor Neighborhood Association 25th anniversary, ribbon cutting for a new sushi restaurant, volunteer activities, and upcoming neighborhood meetings. Encouraged participation in October events: Fire Open House, Period Action Day open house, farmers market, and the Adopt-a-Drain program. 休会 - The meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m.

The Fitchburg Common Council met on September 22, 2026, to approve minutes, receive the finance director’s report, and act on seven resolutions, including a brush and yard waste contract, stormwater rate increase, solar inverter repair funding, a lease amendment, a bond issuance, and a federal grant acceptance. All resolutions were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes (September 8, 2026): Moved and approved without comment. - Finance Director Report: The mayor’s proposed 2027 budget was released on September 18 and is online. Special finance committee meetings are scheduled for September 29–30. The council reviewed check registers: September 1–15 disbursements totaled $1,431,156.51 (checks 131243–131315 for $1,549,259.97). Alder Bill asked about an unusual second batch of police maintenance payments to Kaiser Ford; staff will follow up. - Resolution R15226 – Brush & Yard Waste Processing Contract: Authorizes a three-year contract (2027–2029) with Purple Cow Organics LLC for $83,454.30 ($27,000 in 2027). Approved unanimously. - Resolution R15526 – Stormwater Utility Rate Increase: Approves a 5% rate increase citywide, effective January 1, 2027. The rate had not been increased since 2023. Approved unanimously. - Resolution R17526 – Budget Amendment for Solar Inverter Repairs: Transfers $100,000 from CIP 1038 (capital purchases for existing solar installations) to operating funds for repairs. Discussion included the history of inverter issues, estimated repair costs of $40,000–$50,000, and concerns about using one-time money. Staff clarified the funds were already designated for repairs, not future expansion. Approved unanimously. - Resolution R1952 – Safe Kids Madison Lease Amendment (Fire Station 1): Amends the existing lease to reduce upper-floor office space and limit operations primarily to the basement, with annual cost increasing from $18,000 to $33,000. Discussion covered space usage and pending renovations. Approved unanimously. - Resolution R1962 – Bond Issuance (Series 2026A): Authorizes the sale of up to $22,320,000 in general obligation promissory notes via a parameter sale, with a maximum true interest cost of 4.43%. Proceeds fund the police facility addition, Fitzrona Road improvements, Kids Crossing playground, and city hall remodeling. Estimated debt service levy increase: $320,000 per year for two years; a typical $500,000 property would see an $10 annual increase. The city’s debt would remain at 21% of its statutory limit. Staff may accept bids if terms are within parameters and will report results. Approved unanimously. - Resolution R1972 – Acceptance of Edward Byrne Memorial JAG Grant: Accepts $11,144 from the federal grant via the city of Madison, to be used for data analysis software. A future budget amendment will formalize the expenditure. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All five resolutions were passed unanimously. - The meeting adjourned at 6:04 p.m.

The Fitchburg License Committee met on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at approximately 5:00 p.m., with Chair Alder Reichstadt, Vice Chair Alder Herbst, and Alder Leper present. The committee reviewed and voted on multiple license applications, special event permits, and street use permits. All votes were unanimous. The meeting adjourned at 5:53 p.m. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the September 8th meeting minutes. - Approved two new operator licenses (no renewals). - Approved a sound permit for the Race Day Events Beer Run. - Approved a change of agent for Quick Trip 959. - Note discrepancy: The consent agenda described the Race Day Events Beer Run hours as 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., while the later agenda item listed 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers from the public appeared for non-agenda items. - Mona (applicant for Auburn Drive Block Party), Mark (Fitchburg Fire Department), Thomas (Race Day Events), and Melissa Jacobson/Harry (Wisco Cheese and Cheers LLC) provided testimony on their respective agenda items. Discussion Items - Auburn Drive Block Party (Item 5A): Mona described the event as a neighborhood party with lawn games and food, scheduled for Saturday, September 26th, from 2 to 6 p.m. She confirmed all neighbors on the block signed the petition. Alder Leper expressed strong support, calling block parties a "great event." - Fitchburg Fire and Rescue Safety Day (Item 6): Mark presented the Fire Department's request to close Marketplace Drive for their annual Open House on Saturday, October 10th, from 8 a.m. to noon. The event is coordinated with the Oak Bank Great Pumpkin Giveaway to allow safe passage between events. The Fire Department has a safety plan involving staged engines at barricades to maintain emergency response. Attendance is projected between 700 and 1,000 people, an increase from roughly 500 last year. - Race Day Events Beer Run (Items 7A & 8A): Thomas presented the annual event at Seminole Tap on Saturday, October 17th, featuring a 5K run on public sidewalks and a "beer mile" (four laps, four beers) in the parking lot. Discrepancy noted: Event hours were stated as 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., differing from the 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. listed in the consent agenda. Thomas confirmed the Badger State Trail would remain open. For the premise amendment (Item 8A), he requested permission to serve alcohol in the barricaded parking lot. Alder Herbst remarked that the event is "unique." - Wisco Cheese and Cheers LLC (Item 9A): Melissa Jacobson and Harry requested a new Class B fermented malt beverage license for Cheers Cheese and Cheers Bistro at 2570 Rim Rock Road. The restaurant is currently open for a month and a half with a limited menu and plans to expand. Alder Reichstadt expressed excitement about the new establishment, noting the area's demand for more restaurant venues. Alder Leper echoed this sentiment. It was noted that additional operator licenses would be needed for staff not under the agent's supervision. Key Outcomes - Auburn Drive Block Party (5A): Motion by Alder Herbst to approve the street use permit passed unanimously. - Fitchburg Fire and Rescue Safety Day (6): Motion by Alder Leper to approve the street closure permit passed unanimously. - Race Day Events Beer Run (7A): Motion by Alder Herbst to approve the special event permit passed unanimously. - Public Premise Amendment (8A): Motion to allow alcohol service in the barricaded parking lot passed unanimously. - Class B License (9A): Motion by Alder Leper to approve the fermented malt beverage license for Wisco Cheese and Cheers LLC passed unanimously. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for October 13th, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.

The Fitchburg Board of Public Works met on September 21, 2026, at 5:30 PM, with all board members present. The meeting covered approval of minutes, a report from the Director of Public Works, a resolution for a water main easement, and announcements. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the minutes from the August 17, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public appeared in chambers or online for non-agenda items. Discussion Items - Report from Director of Public Works, Tim Volker, PE: - The city's IT department replaced old laptops with six new iPads, split between council chambers and the genie ceiling room; devices must be returned and plugged in after meetings. - The fall recycling day event (September 19, 2026) was canceled due to weather and has been rescheduled to Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 8 to 11 a.m. - Project updates: - Whalen Road Pave Shoulder project: grading complete, curb poured, paving expected in October. - 2026 street resurfacing: Tower Hill is the only remaining street; curb and gutter being poured, paving in October. - 2025 ARPA Street Resurfacing (Bellmar neighborhood): curb and gutter to be completed this week, paving in October. All three projects are being paved by Payne and Dolan, likely starting with Whalen Road, then Tower Hill, then Bellmar. - 2026 sidewalk replacement project: removals and replacements complete; restoration this week by a new company from Duluth. - 2026 Bellmar and Tower Hill utility improvement projects: underground utility work complete; curb, gutter, and paving in October. - Well 12 project (Stoner Prairie): pre-construction meeting held September 11; contractor to mobilize in October to pour foundations, then let them sit over winter; vertical construction in spring. - Fitch Rona Road Reconstruction Project: tree clearing and restoration complete by Homer Tree Service; private utility relocations ongoing; design work with DNR on bike path wall; condemnation hearings scheduled for first week of December; project likely to be bid this winter with construction starting spring 2027. - Board members provided feedback: Alder Dave Herbst praised traffic control on Fitch Rona Road; Don Gutkowski commended sidewalk replacements and noted a new company performed well. Bill Jetzer raised concerns about black delineator posts on Schumann Drive (reflectivity) and possible beaver damage to oak trees in McKee Park (bark peeled). The director will follow up. - Resolution R17726 – Acceptance of Public Water Main Easement: - Director Volker explained that on June 7, 2022, the city entered into an agreement with Fehee Lands LLC and VH Highfield Reserve LLC for subdivision improvements in Highfield Reserve. A public water main easement is needed for a hydrant, requiring 10 feet of clearance. The LLC agreed to grant the necessary easement (20-foot wide, plus additional 135 square feet) at no cost to the city. The resolution was moved and seconded. Alder Herbst asked about the identity of VH Highfield Reserve (likely Viridian). The board voted unanimously to approve. - Additional Question on YMCA: - Alder Herbst asked about sewer and water easements for the YMCA facility. Director Volker stated that Tracy has been working on them, and the pool capacity was taken into account in the design. Key Outcomes - Approval of August 17, 2026 minutes – unanimous. - Approval of Resolution R17726 – unanimous, accepting the water main easement. - The next Board of Public Works meeting is scheduled for October 5, 2026, at 5:30 PM. - Meeting adjourned at 5:42 PM.

The Fitchburg Library Board met on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, to approve routine reports, review the 2027 budget, hear the library director's update, and enter closed session for the director's evaluation. All votes were voice votes; no vote totals were recorded in the transcript. Consent Calendar - Approved the August meeting minutes after correcting the record to show that a member listed as participating via Zoom had actually been absent. - Approved the June 26 financial register and overview. The finance report noted summer performer expenses, outside printing through Sprint Print because of copier overage fees, and a return to normal spending in account 387 after the spring system outage prevented ordering. Discussion Items - 2027 budget review: The library director reported that the mayor's proposed budget increases the library levy amount by $33,890 to offset salary increases, insurance increases for benefits and building coverage, and a steep increase in IT capital. Net new construction was reported at 2.4, and the budget carries a 4% increase. The utility account for MGE power is set at $90,000, up from $70,000, and building repairs are restored to $10,000 from $5,000. A prior $3 overage was corrected, leaving $2 in the budget. - Future budget concern: The director said the library will likely need another increase next year for a new position required to meet standards. - Administrative services: The proposed administrative services line is up about 6%, attributed mainly to city departments adding staff and cost-of-living increases. The fee is based on FTE counts; the library is a separate fund and receives an FTE equivalency. The board discussed inviting Finance Director Misty Dodge and IT Manager Nick Joseph to explain the costs more fully. - Draft budget correction: A zero amount listed for custodial supplies was identified as an error; the correct amount remains $4,000, and the director said she would fix it. - Agenda amendment: The board voted to move items 9D and 9E before item 9C so Wendy, the library director, could leave after those items and not return for the closed session. - Budget schedule: The mayor's proposed budget will be published Friday, September 18; referred to the Common Council on September 22; department presentations to the finance committee are September 29 and 30; the public hearing is October 13; amendments are due October 14; and final budget approval is November 10. The library exemption resolution has been delayed but is due by the end of October, so the director said there is no timing issue. Library Director Report - Holds numbers are still unavailable in the new library system, and checkout and renewal totals appear to be 1,000 to 2,000 lower per month than June through August of last year. This may be a system issue or a real usage decline; other libraries in the system report similar concerns. - Summer reading and program numbers were strong. - Facilities: no report. Personnel: the library is fully staffed. Strategic planning: no report yet, but work will restart during the fall in-service. - Outreach Librarian Minda Maurer won South Central's Patron Advocate Award; the director nominated her for the award in recognition of her community outreach work. Closed Session - The board voted to enter closed session under Wis. Stat. § 19.85(1)(c) to discuss a personnel issue, specifically the evaluation of the library director. Tim and Wendy were excused for the closed-session portion. - The board reconvened in open session at 6:52 p.m. Key Outcomes - Approved the August meeting minutes and the June 26 financial register and overview by voice vote. - Approved the 2027 budget for transmittal through the city budget process by voice vote. - Amended the meeting agenda to reorder items 9D and 9E before 9C by voice vote. - Held a closed session to evaluate the library director and reconvened in open session. - Next regular meeting: October 21 at 5:30 p.m. The meeting adjourned at 6:54 p.m.