Public Meetings - Fitchburg, Wisconsin

The Fitchburg Police and Fire Commission met on December 17, 2025, to hear public comments, receive staffing updates from both departments, discuss upcoming events, and conduct closed-session personnel actions. The meeting included unanimous approvals of probationary status changes, conditional job offers, promotions, and eligibility lists. Public Comments & Testimony - John Edwards (member of the public) addressed the commission, sharing that he has a mental health illness involving memory issues. He described a 2016 colon cancer diagnosis from Group Health Cooperative that he questioned, subsequent interactions with police and city staff (including retired officer Jeff Wisley and current staff Matt Leahy and Sarah), and alleged that his attempts to communicate with the commission had been impeded. He requested an open line of communication with the commission to help resolve what he called an "absolute mess" created by individuals he questioned the honesty of. He also mentioned having been arrested despite no prior record and currently lacking healthcare. The commission thanked him for his comments. Discussion Items - Police Department Staffing Report: Presented by a representative (likely Deputy Chief or similar). Noted the recent reorganization from 55 to 54 authorized sworn positions and a sergeant promotional process conducted the prior week. Current vacancies listed as five, with no officers in field training or on restricted leave/duty. The report indicated positive trends. - Monthly Activity Update (November): A quieter month compared to November 2024, with 200–300 fewer traffic stops. Alternative side parking citations also varied. Events included Stuff the Squad and the Turkey Derby on Thanksgiving. - Fire Department Staffing Report: Presented by the Fire Chief. Responses were slower; false fire alarms improved due to inspections. November onboarding included two battalion chiefs and eight paid-on-call firefighters (most still completing training). Overtime remained high but lower than the prior year. One retirement anticipated this month; four mandatory details in November, with more expected in December. - Fire Hydrant Clearing: Discussion of the city's request for citizens to maintain a three-foot radius around hydrants; various departments assist when needed. - Announcements: - Police participated in the Dane County Shop with a Cop event (Dec. 7) and the annual food drive (donation to Allied Food Pantry). - New police recruit Paul Monniak will start the Madison College academy on January 12, 2025 (720-hour program, graduation around mid-May), filling one of five vacancies. - City Lights event moved indoors to Fire Station One due to cold weather; considered a success. - Bark at the Bonfire event (Fitchburg Law Enforcement Foundation) raised funds for the K9 unit and potential technology for the new police facility (planned spring 2027). - Youth Government Days (August 2025, ages 6–8th grade) will include a police facility tour; registration filled up quickly this year; free for all nearby communities. - A Citizens Academy for kids (two age groups) is planned for next year, likely a few Saturdays. - Closed Session Motions and Open Session Actions: - Police: Motion to remove probationary status on Officer Lequie and Officer Chisholm (passed unanimously). Motion to make conditional offers of employment for police officer positions (passed unanimously). - Fire: Motion to approve Garrett Christian's promotion to Fire Lieutenant (passed unanimously). Motion to establish a lieutenant eligibility list (passed unanimously). Motion to approve hiring off the existing POx Battalion Chief eligibility list if needed (passed unanimously). Motion to approve starting a full-time open competitive battalion chief recruitment in case of a vacancy (passed unanimously). Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval to remove probationary status for two police officers. - Unanimous approval to make conditional offers of employment for police officer positions. - Unanimous approval of Garrett Christian's promotion to Fire Lieutenant. - Unanimous approval to establish a lieutenant eligibility list. - Unanimous approval to hire off the existing POx Battalion Chief eligibility list if needed. - Unanimous approval to start a full-time battalion chief recruitment process for potential vacancies. - All motions were passed without recorded opposition.

The Plan Commission held its final meeting of 2025, considering a community-based residential facility exception, three rezonings, a pre-application for a major mixed-use development, early permit issuance, smart code zoning amendments, and a discussion on the upcoming comprehensive plan and zoning code RFPs. All actions were taken after public hearings and staff presentations. Public Hearings & Actions - Resolution R243-25 (CBRF Exception): The commission approved an exception to state statute §62.237i to allow a 64-bed community-based residential facility (memory care) at Grace Hospice, 5395 East Cheryl Parkway. The project reduces hospice beds from 49 to 27, adds a dementia village (first in U.S.), adult daycare, grief support center, and employee apartments. Duane Hellwig (agent) presented. Diana Schmidt (city planner) explained the exception, noting the Aldermanic District 3 population (7,495) would exceed 1% capacity. The vote was unanimous. - Rezone RZ2621-25 (Orchard Point Lot 11): The commission rezoned property from PDD-GIP to PDD-SIP for a 180-unit multifamily development (80 senior income-restricted, 100 market rate, four stories, underground parking, solar on building one). Danny Affabol (agent) and Kevin Burrow (architect) attended via Zoom. The motion with 7 staff conditions passed with one commissioner opposed. - Certified Survey Map CS2622-25 (Orchard Point): Approved with 15 conditions, dividing Lot 11 into two parcels. - Architectural Design Review (Orchard Point Multifamily): Approved with 16 conditions. Commissioner requested sample boards for future ADRs. - Certified Survey Map CS2623-25 (No Oaks Ranch): Approved with 22 conditions, creating Lot 1 for a 160-unit multifamily development within the approved preliminary plat. Michelle Burres (agent) online. The CSM is contingent on upcoming smart code changes allowing lot widths greater than 300 feet. - Early Issuance of Permits (Gusto Apartments): Approved with 10 conditions for footings and foundation at 2747 South Seminole Highway, prior to completion of public infrastructure. - Ordinance 2025-0-18 (Smart Code Amendments): The commission approved amendments to the smart code zoning district ordinance (agenda listed as 2025-0-19 but corrected to 2025-0-18). Key change: increased maximum building height in T5 from 6 to 8 stories, with 9–12 stories requiring Architectural Design Review (ADR) rather than an administrative waiver. Other amendments include reduced street tree spacing, flexibility in lot sizes, setback adjustments, and elimination of unused street types. Motion carried. Public Comments - David Haight (5855 Woods Edge Road): Spoke twice. First, on the Gusto Apartments early permit, he raised concerns about stormwater discharging into a sub-zero wetland, stating he will challenge the self-certification at the DNR. Second, on the smart code ordinance, he provided legal background on the comprehensive plan amendment process and argued that prior actions may have violated state law. - Charles Tracole (adjacent property owner): Asked about the nature and reason for the CBRF exception and contrasted it with his inability to obtain exceptions to subdivide his own property on Lacey Road. He expressed no objection to the Grace project. Discussion Items - Grace CBRF Pre-Application: Commissioners asked about vacancy rates (current hospice beds not full), the dementia village concept (permanent residence vs. temporary hospice), and employee apartments. Staff confirmed the project aligns with demand for memory care. - Syncopation Pre-Application (County Highway M): Mark Fairchild and Chris Gosh presented a mixed-use development with 119 continuum-of-care senior units, 35 single-family lots, 40 townhomes, 312 multifamily units (two phases), and commercial space. Discussion covered workforce housing (10% at 60% AMI), TIF request, geotechnical challenges (old fill site), lot sizes, parkland dedication, trail connections, and building heights. Commissioner Shelley suggested including duplexes; the developer expressed openness. No vote was taken; feedback was provided. - Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Code Update RFP: Brad Sippo (planner) led a discussion on the RFP scope. Major topics: reevaluating growth models and Future Urban Development Areas (FUDAs), public engagement strategies (surveys, working groups, language accessibility), and the urban-rural interface. Commissioners debated using existing committees vs. creating new working groups. The RFP is expected early to mid-January 2026. The zoning code update aims to create a single hybrid form-based code, reducing reliance on PDDs. Commissioner expressed pride in Fitchburg being the first smart code community but acknowledged the administrative burden of two codes. Key Outcomes - Resolution R243-25: Approved unanimously. - Rezone RZ2621-25: Approved (1 opposed). - Certified Survey Map CS2622-25: Approved unanimously. - ADR (Orchard Point): Approved unanimously. - Certified Survey Map CS2623-25: Approved unanimously. - Early Issuance of Permits (Gusto): Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 2025-0-18 (Smart Code Amendments): Approved with modification (height waiver process changed). - The commission accepted the resignation of Commissioner Sach Villiens, who is moving out of the city, with thanks. - The meeting adjourned with holiday wishes.

The Community Equity Advisory Committee met on December 15, 2025 to approve prior minutes, hear public comment, discuss the 2025 Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan update, consider the committee's role in reviewing city plans, and review cultural observances for 2026. No written agenda or minutes were available; this summary is drawn from the meeting transcript. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the minutes of the November 20, 2025 meeting by voice vote, with no discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Steve Arnold, a Fitchburg resident representing Bike Fitchburg and the Wisconsin Bike Fed, argued that the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan update was underfunded, that the consultant time budget was fully used, and that staff were left to finish the plan. He urged the committee to recommend additional work on the plan. - Arnold described the Fitchburg Greenway proposal to designate the city's nearly 50 miles of multi-use paths as a named transportation system, citing the 4.2-mile Fish Hatchery Greenway as an example connecting clinics, grocery stores, banks, a dog park, and a veterans memorial. - Arnold noted that many residents in the Leopold neighborhood are unaware of Fitchburg City Hall, library, and senior center south of McKee Road, and he framed the Greenway proposal as important for healthy neighborhoods and equity. - He offered Bike Fitchburg's help as a contractor for copy editing and planning, requested photo captions and credits, flagged map errors, estimated about six months of additional work would improve the plan, and noted urgency tied to the bicycle-friendly community application due in June 2027. Discussion Items - Resolution R 174-25, approval of the City of Fitchburg Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan 2025 update, was presented by Phil, a city sustainability specialist. He described the plan's history from 2008 and 2017, the $25,000 budget approved in 2024, consultant MSA Professional Services, a working group, delays from feedback and parental leave, and new content on e-bikes, bike share, the Southdale incorporation, and healthy neighborhoods. - Phil reported incorporating suggestions from Emmanuel Munoz, including B-cycle stations north of McKee Road, bilingual signage, monthly rides with the mayor or city council, and partnerships with Free Bikes for Kids. He said QR-code feedback loops along trails were not in the plan but were under consideration. - In response to questions, Phil acknowledged that the update did not include a specific resident engagement effort; feedback came from community organizations and alders, not directly from residents in healthy neighborhoods. Committee members, including Janice, raised concerns about reaching diverse residents and questioned proposals such as QR codes that may not fit all communities. - Steve Arnold noted that the Bicycle and Pedestrian Commission had already tabled the plan and had expressed support for his written comments. - Options discussed included approving the plan as written, approving it with an amendment allowing staff to make technical corrections after adoption, or tabling it for further equity-committee discussion. A motion to approve the plan with added technical-correction language was not seconded. A motion to table the plan for further discussion was made, seconded, and passed by voice vote. - Staff noted next steps after the committee: the Transportation and Transit Commission would consider the plan on January 8, 2026, and City Council would consider it on January 13, 2026. - The committee then discussed the timing of reviewing city plans. Members agreed they needed to see plans earlier in the pipeline rather than in final form, and that plan scope should determine the review timeline. Sarah, staff, agreed to compile a list of upcoming city plans and bring it to the January meeting. - Members discussed whether the committee should conduct listening sessions in neighborhoods; the chair cautioned that if a quorum of members gathered outside a formal meeting, it would become a public meeting. - For CEI Cultural Observances for the 2026 calendar, Sarah presented current city staff observances, including African American History Month, Women's History Month, Pride Month, Juneteenth, National Hispanic Heritage Month, Veterans Day, Native American Heritage Month, and winter celebrations. - Janice noted the senior center's role in leading many cultural events, including Black History Month presentations and Juneteenth celebrations. Members asked about flag raisings; Sarah confirmed that, under mayoral guidelines, the Pride flag and Juneteenth flag could still be raised in Fitchburg. - Members suggested adding other observances such as Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage dates, using the city's DEI calendar, and considering whether to hold events in neighborhoods or invite residents from other parts of the city. The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion employee resource group may present to the committee in early 2026. Key Outcomes - The November 20, 2025 meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - Resolution R 174-25 was tabled by the Community Equity Advisory Committee for further discussion; the plan will also go to the Transportation and Transit Commission on January 8, 2026, and to City Council on January 13, 2026. - Sarah will send a list of upcoming city plans before the next meeting and will bring it to the committee's January 28, 2026 meeting. - Cultural observances for 2026 will remain under discussion, with the DEI employee resource group expected to attend a future meeting. - The next regular meeting is January 28, 2026, at 5:15 p.m.; the agenda will be published the Friday before.

The Fitchburg, Wisconsin Commission on Aging Well met Thursday, December 11, 2025. No agenda or written minutes were available; this summary is drawn from the meeting transcript. The commission approved minutes, introduced newly aligned city recreation and community development staff, approved a budget amendment for an LTE kitchen position, and approved the 2026 Dane County contract for nutrition and case management. The meeting also included reports on outreach, programming, and holiday season activities. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the previous meeting were approved as presented, with no changes offered; the motion was seconded and carried unanimously. Department Restructure and Staff Introductions - The chair announced that a departmental restructure became official on December 8, 2025, and introduced staff so the commission could connect names to roles. - Evelyn Stensing, community center and recreation coordinator (with the city about eight months, since April), and Chad Siegel, K Center recreation manager (17 years with the city, 25 years in recreation), described their work: park shelter and community center reservations, pickleball courts, program registrations, and recreation programming. Chad said the city has 12 pickleball courts; in response to a question, staff said there are six tennis courts and basketball courts throughout the city. - Jessica, community development program coordinator, described her work with four northern priority neighborhoods, including distributing roughly $140,000 in community grant funding, updating a five-year strategic plan, and managing a Dane County-funded neighborhood navigator position. She said the position is new and was previously under planning and zoning. Asked about seniors, she said priority-neighborhood residents can access programs, but there is no current initiative specifically focused on senior center participation. - The naming process for the new community center (the hub) is open until December 22; approval is expected around January 13. Programming at the hub is still to be determined. Budget Amendment for LTE Kitchen Position - Jill (director report) explained that this was the third year she requested city funding for the limited-term employee (LTE) kitchen position and the third year the request was denied. The Friends of the Fitchburg Senior Center covered it the first year; the city contributed about $7,000 the second year; no city contribution was made this year. - The LTE position supports the meal program kitchen and volunteer coordination; Mandy, the nutrition site coordinator, also runs volunteer recruitment, background checks, and reporting. The position is part-time at 20 hours and receives no benefits or vacation. - The Friends committed $15,000; the budget amendment also used $6,000 from a one-time donor and internal charges of $541 to personnel and $50 to IT. The city budget shows the Friends contribution as $14,700 in the amendment. - Jill said she will continue advocating for a permanent 32-hour position, noting that other Dane County nutrition sites have coordinators at 32 or 40 hours. - The commission approved the budget amendment unanimously; it will go to City Council to accept the donated funds. 2026 Dane County Contract for Nutrition and Case Management - Staff reviewed the standard county contract, which has funded nutrition and case management for about 35 years. Current case management funding from Dane County is $83,000 and does not cover the full 2.5-person case management unit. - Nutrition funding comes from a combination of federal, state, and county sources; case management is general levy. Medical Assistance (MA) case management is billed monthly, averaging 30–40 billable clients per year; the 2025 allocation is about $17,000 and billing had reached $12,000 with one quarter remaining. - Jill expressed concern that family care clients cannot be billed or reported to Dane County even though the center continues to serve them. She estimated that about 10 Fitchburg clients will lose daily home-delivered meals from the city starting January 1, 2026, because family care providers will arrange their own meal deliveries, potentially as weekly or monthly boxes and without daily wellness checks. - The commission approved the 2026 county contract by voice vote; all were in favor. Friends of the Fitchburg Senior Center Report - Jerry reported that a November travel informational meeting drew strong interest; the Rhine and Paris cruise is filling rapidly, and the travel committee is developing 2027 opportunities. - The Friends provided more than $1,000 in assistance in November, including lunches for 45 veterans and their spouses on Veterans Day. - Planning is underway for the pancake breakfast; a date is expected by the February commission meeting after the Friends and commission January 8 meetings. Outreach Plan and Programming Updates - The outreach plan will include an April 30 bingo event in the center’s dining room with Channel 3 morning news anchor Kyrie On Lee as celebrity caller; the room can accommodate about 80 people. - The Limerick location was secured for January 16 for outreach to meet residents and invite them back to the senior center. - Janice reported that the gospel choir debuted at the last Lunch and Learn and will continue; Black History Month events include a Milton House Museum presentation on February 4 and a presentation on the history of movement, dance, and music. - A wreath-making class filled to capacity, included waitlisted participants, and drew new people to the center. Director’s Report and Other Updates - A new bilingual social worker named Sarah accepted an offer to fill the vacant social work position; she starts January 5, works 24 hours Monday through Thursday, and receives prorated benefits and WRS eligibility. - Jessica will relocate to the senior center office as part of the restructure; new furnishings are expected by the end of January. - City Hall remodeling discussions include community center improvements (entrance, storage, kitchen), with changes anticipated in 2027. - The holiday Giving Tree had all tags pulled by December 8; roughly 30 people were expected to be served. A personal essentials drive, coordinated with Jessica and healthy neighborhoods, is collecting items such as lotion, shampoo, toothpaste, cleaning products, and diapers/wipes. - A women’s group Metro bus learn-to-ride trip drew 22 sign-ups and 10 participants; issues such as an unplowed sidewalk after 12 inches of snow were referred to the mayor and the transportation/transit committee. Discussion noted Metro’s Route B bus rapid transit as an option and the $1 senior fare. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously. - Budget amendment for the LTE kitchen position approved unanimously and forwarded to City Council. - 2026 Dane County contract for case management and nutrition services approved by voice vote. - A January commission meeting and working meeting will be held back-to-back; the Friends and commission meetings are scheduled for January 8. - The meeting adjourned with holiday wishes to members.

This summary covers the December 10, 2025 meeting of the Fitchburg Healthy Neighborhoods Advisory Committee, called to order at 5:35 p.m. and adjourned at 6:37 p.m. The committee approved prior meeting minutes, discussed a proposed microgrant program, received an update on the Healthy Neighborhoods Strategic Plan, reviewed a tentative 2026 meeting and grant schedule, and approved a Dane County navigator funding contract. Consent Calendar - Approval of October meeting minutes: motion by Hamilton, seconded, and carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No formal public appearances were made for non-agenda items. Jill, a city staff member, said she was attending to learn following a departmental restructuring; as of Monday she is working under the new Community Service and Recreation umbrella. Discussion Items Microgrant Program Proposal - Staff presented a preliminary idea to launch a microgrant pilot in 2026 by reallocating roughly $4,000 from the current larger grant program, with about $1,000 tentatively allocated per priority neighborhood. The proposed program would use a rolling application process and fund resident-led initiatives such as community meals, craft nights, neighborhood signs, beautification, health and safety activities, educational programs, and similar grassroots efforts. - Staff stated the goal is to give residents more autonomy and remove barriers, potentially allowing applicants without 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. Staff noted legal questions remain and no documents are finalized. - Caitlin supported the concept but asked how it would differ from current grants, whether nonprofit status would be required, and whether criteria should prevent well-funded applicants such as HOAs from applying. She later suggested tracking applicant satisfaction and using brief sign-up sheets or simple survey tools at events. - Mark asked where funding would come from and suggested a simple year-one structure of up to $1,000 per neighborhood. He noted navigators, hubs, and neighborhood groups could help spread the word. Mark also said the committee gave a positive thumbs-up to the concept and encouraged staff to develop it and bring it back. - Sharice supported broad allowable uses, including beautification, health and safety, education, and family initiatives. She emphasized the need for creative outreach, easy applications, and enough time for residents to learn about and apply for the grants. - Some members supported measuring success through the number of applications received, resident engagement at funded projects, and applicant feedback. One member cautioned against requiring formal surveys because residents are already asked to complete many city surveys. - No formal vote was taken; staff said the discussion was meant to gather feedback before drafting materials. Healthy Neighborhoods Strategic Plan Update - Staff reported that no draft was ready for this meeting. Community engagement inputs have been compiled and data work is ongoing; a rough draft remains a priority and will be brought back to the committee for red-line edits. - Members raised concerns about scheduling enough time for plan work and about duplicating review if the plan also goes to the Community Equity Committee. Staff noted the plan is expected to go to the Community Equity Committee after this committee. 2026 Meeting Schedule and Grant Timeline - Staff presented a tentative 2026 schedule shifting meetings to the second Wednesday of the month. Key dates: January 14 review of grant application materials; February 11 to be determined; late March applicant presentations; April 8 grant review and approval discussion; May and June 2025 grantees present final projects; October mid-year check-in summary; November to be determined. - The tentative grant timeline includes applications opening January 16 through February 20, council referral of grants on March 24, and council approval on April 21. Staff noted this is a few weeks later than in prior years. - Members discussed whether a subcommittee could review applications to save time; the chair noted meetings are public and recorded, so some work may need to remain visible. - Caitlin and Mark asked for clearer grant review criteria. Staff proposed adding a ranking question from one to X to grant evaluations and discussing it on January 14. Jill suggested using community engagement data from the strategic plan to help prioritize applications. - There was discussion about whether changes to grant priorities or the strategic plan require Common Council approval; staff said they would check with council leadership and communicate back. Resolution R23625 – Dane County Neighborhood Navigator Funding - A motion was made and seconded to approve Resolution R23625 accepting 2026 Dane County neighborhood navigator funding. Staff explained the contract provides roughly $24,000 for the navigator salary and the program is moving from two part-time navigators to one navigator doing 10 to 20 flexible hours per week. A member expressed support for the navigator position serving citywide. The motion carried unanimously. Department Report & Announcements - Staff reported that the Common Council approved modifications to the grant program the previous evening. The maximum grant amount was raised to $25,000 to reduce staff time needed to manage a larger number of grantees, roughly 14 grantees this year, and to allow larger impacts. The grant materials may also incentivize programming at the new hub in the North Fish Hatchery neighborhood, but staff stated this does not mean all funded programming must be at the hub, and equitable neighborhood service remains a priority. - Staff announced upcoming neighborhood meetings: Allied Dunns Marsh Neighborhood Association, Thursday, December 18, 5-6 p.m. on Zoom; Allied Dunns Marsh Neighborhood Resource Team, January 1, 4-5:30 p.m.; and Leopold Neighborhood Resource Team, January 14, 2-3 p.m. on Zoom. Key Outcomes - Approved October minutes unanimously. - Approved Resolution R23625 unanimously. - No formal decision was made on the microgrant proposal; committee feedback was positive and staff will continue drafting the program. - The Healthy Neighborhoods Strategic Plan remains in progress; no draft was presented. - The 2026 meeting and grant timeline was treated as tentative; no formal vote was taken. - Meeting adjourned at 6:37 p.m.

The Fitchburg Common Council met on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, in regular session from approximately 6:36 p.m. to 9:34 p.m. The council made appointments, conducted four public hearings, adopted comprehensive plan amendments, approved the No Oaks Ranch preliminary plat, created a police facilities impact fee, and handled finance, public works, and year-end report items. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - David Hayden, 5855 Woods Edge Road, opposed the comprehensive plan amendments (Ordinances 2025-024 and 2025-025), arguing that the city is not following Wisconsin planning statutes or case law and that the plan elements are never updated to reflect amendments. He called the current approach the opposite of comprehensive planning. - Hayden also opposed the No Oaks Ranch preliminary plat, saying the council lacked required floodplain/wetland evidence and that developers were being given procedural advantages not afforded to the public. - Patrick Cheney submitted a written comment, read by Alder Maldonado, supporting repair of the Wildwood South tennis courts rather than demolition and asking that the McKee Park tennis/pickleball/archery court be resurfaced next rather than removed. Appointment - Erin Farrell Adamani was appointed to the Parks Commission for a term expiring April 2027, shortened due to a resignation. She said she has lived in Fitchburg for more than 20 years and wants to help preserve the quality of the city's parks. The appointment was approved unanimously. Public Hearings - Resolution R196-25, to discontinue and vacate a portion of Basswood Drive: no public testimony; hearing closed. - Ordinance 2025-024, fall 2025 comprehensive plan amendment adding a medium-high density residential (MHDR) land use category: David Hayden spoke against it; hearing closed. - Ordinance 2025-025, fall 2025 comprehensive plan amendment for property off Fitchrona Road: David Hayden spoke against it; hearing closed. - Ordinance 2025-031, repealing the fire facilities impact fee and creating the police facilities impact fee: no public testimony; hearing closed. Land Use and Plan Commission Decisions - The council adopted Ordinance 2025-024 and Plan Commission Resolution PCR 04-25, adding the MHDR land use category at 9–15 dwelling units per acre and amending text on Map 4.3. Alder Jetzer voted no, saying the missing-middle range should go up to about 40 units per acre to support transit and neighborhood retail. - The council adopted Ordinance 2025-025 and Plan Commission Resolution PCR 05-25, changing future land use at the Jamestown Quarry property from medium-density residential to high-density residential. Developer representatives Chris Downson and Cory Frank described a possible concept of about 300 market-rate units, with quarry elevation and berms screening much of the building from nearby single-family homes and stormwater managed on site. The Plan Commission had supported the change unanimously. - The council approved Resolution R234-25, the preliminary plat for No Oaks Ranch LLC north of Lacey Road and west of Highway 14. The resolution cited 168 parcels including 141 buildable lots; the Mayor's later report cited 166 parcels and 147 buildable lots. The plan includes 123 single-family lots (79 alley-loaded T4 and 44 additional T4 lots) and 23 mixed-use T5 lots, plus outlots for open space, stormwater, and parkland. A tree survey found 216 desirable trees, with 15 to be removed. Developer Phil Svium said development would start on the south end and take about 8–9 years. The plat was approved. Public Works and Infrastructure - R191-25 accepted a public water main easement on Buds Drive; approved. - R196-25 vacated a portion of Basswood Drive as the street is being closed and shifted roughly 90 feet west; approved. - R228-25 rejected the sole audio/video bid for the police services facility because it was about twice the engineer's estimate; the council authorized re-bidding. - R231-25, a final sidewalk assessment, was postponed indefinitely. - R235-25 supported an STBG-TA grant application for a path connecting Post Road to Traceway Drive, with $760,000 in federal funding and about $500,000 in local match; approved. - R220-25 granted an underground electric easement to MG&E for the new police services facility; approved. Finance and Budget - Ordinance 2025-031 was adopted, creating a police facilities impact fee and repealing the fire facilities impact fee. Fees are $861 per single-family home, $574 per multifamily unit, $0.19 per square foot for industrial development, and $0.30 per square foot for commercial development. Ehlers consultant John Cameron said the 20-year study projects about $5 million in collections against a possible $8 million. - R215-25 reallocated 2024 debt proceeds to meet tax-exempt spending deadlines; approved by roll call, all ayes. - R216-25 used about $1.075 million in early special-assessment payments and excess debt-service interest to reduce future borrowing; approved by roll call, all ayes. - R217-25 amended the 2026 general fund budget, shifting money from a vacant code enforcement position and reduced planning intern hours to a finance specialist and up to 8 hours per week of LTE building inspector time. Alder Herbst initially voted no because of code-enforcement concerns in her district, but changed to aye after the city administrator said code compliance would remain a priority. - R218-25 raised the maximum Healthy Neighborhoods Grant from $15,000 to $25,000 and added language to incentivize programming on Traceway Drive; approved. - R222-25 approved a $48,000 replacement fire department response vehicle (gas-powered, through state contract); approved. - R223-25 approved about $28,000 for radios and accessories for that vehicle; approved. - R226-25 authorized transfer of city-owned DaneCom public safety radio equipment, about $2 million in capital value, to Dane County, saving $12,000 annually and future replacement costs. Transfer is effective Dec. 31, 2025, contingent on county board approval Dec. 18; approved. - R229-25 authorized a $7,700 contract with the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission (CARPC) for facilitation of southeast Fitchburg development discussions; 50% will be reimbursed by the Village of Oregon; approved by roll call, all ayes. - R225-25 expressed support for continuing exploration of a joint fire and EMS district. Mayor Radafrata said Verona is not currently participating but the door could remain open; Chief Sarver said Fitchburg firefighters are overwhelmingly in favor of exploring the concept. Approved. Unfinished Business - Ordinance 2025-032 was adopted, updating the Fitchrona EMS Commission composition to match the revised intergovernmental agreement and increasing Fitchburg commissioners from three to four. The mayor said appointments would be made on Jan. 13, including two aldermen. Commission and Committee Reports - The Park Commission reported approval of R213-25, amending the TID closure excess increment fund budget for Wildwood South tennis court crack sealing and resurfacing at a cost of $47,000. The council approved it by roll call, all ayes. - CEDA presented the first draft of the housing plan (about 20 pages) and council members were encouraged to read it. - The bike and pedestrian plan review was delayed to late January 2026 to allow additional committee reviews. - The tree/urban forestry committee reviewed the draft urban forestry management plan; 115 ash trees on city terraces will be removed over the winter, with replacement funding available. - The MPO Policy Board discussed the potential cost of fare-free transit, estimated at $8 million to $18 million per year, and approved a transportation improvement plan amendment including two EV charging stations. Other New Business - R230-25 appointed election inspectors for 2026–2027; the city has 221 trained election inspectors and 16 trained chief inspectors. Approved. - R238-25 supported Ross Family Rentals LLC's application to WEDC for a Community Development Investment grant related to replacing the O'Cala/Fish Hatchery UPS store and potentially adding housing. Approved. - R241-25 approved purchase of a replacement police squad after a Nov. 14, 2025 crash totaled the previous vehicle; insurance will cover replacement less the deductible. Approved. Administrative and Mayoral Reports - The city administrator announced upcoming deadlines and events: Festive with Agora on Friday, Dec. 12, 5–8 p.m.; Holiday Lights Tour on Saturday, Dec. 13 at a city fire station; Hub naming applications due Dec. 22 at 4 p.m.; McKee Park Ice Rink open; nomination papers for the April election due Jan. 6 at 5 p.m.; property tax bills mailed Thursday; City Hall closed Dec. 24, 25, and Jan. 1, and after noon Dec. 31; public access to the third floor ending Monday, Jan. 5, 2026. He also thanked highway and parks staff for snow response and said B-cycle expected to remove remaining e-bikes by Dec. 15. - Mayor Radafrata presented 2025 accomplishments by the numbers: population approximately 36,000; operating budget almost $42.4 million; equalized value $6.7 billion; mill rate 5.42, described as down 6.4 from the prior year; average city tax on a $500,000 home about $2,737, or about $228 per month. Other highlights included 256 total employees, more than 20 new businesses, 552 housing units permitted, 432 trees planted, 2.75 miles resurfaced, completion of the South Syene Road project at more than $12 million, the new police facility and Eastwater Tower construction, continued transit expansion, and a new park and Hub/Traceway facility. Public safety figures cited through Oct. 31 included 10,775 citizen-generated police calls (down 8.4% from 2024), 12,284 officer-initiated calls, 2,689 fire calls, and 4,571 EMS calls. The Mayor said 2026 will include a comp plan and zoning code revision, housing initiative implementation, Fitchrona Road reconstruction, continued police facility construction, and further EMS/fire district exploration. Key Outcomes - Appointed Erin Farrell Adamani to the Parks Commission. - Adopted the MHDR land use category and the Jamestown Quarry future land use change; approved the No Oaks Ranch preliminary plat. - Created the police facilities impact fee and repealed the fire facilities impact fee. - Approved re-bidding of the police facility audio/video package, Traceway/Post Road grant support, utility easement, fire department vehicle and radio purchases, and other finance and intergovernmental resolutions. - Directed staff to continue joint fire/EMS district study work with the Village of Oregon and to keep the door open for Verona. - The next Common Council meeting is scheduled for Jan. 13, 2026; the next Committee of the Whole is Jan. 28, 2026, with a planned presentation on passive house technology.

The Fitchburg Common Council met on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, beginning at 6 p.m. and adjourning at 6:26 p.m. It approved a series of resolutions and one ordinance by unanimous voice vote, covering budget amendments, fire and police equipment purchases, intergovernmental agreements, development support, and a new police facilities impact fee. Finance Director Misty presented a brief report, and no members of the public appeared for non-agenda items. Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals - Meeting minutes were approved unanimously on a motion by Alder Jetzer. - The council reviewed checks 129659–129728 from Nov. 16–30, 2025, totaling $504,387.88, and ACH payments from Nov. 1–30, 2025, totaling $785,360.93; no questions were raised. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made for non-agenda items; no one appeared in chambers or online. - A required public hearing was held as part of the police facilities impact fee ordinance; no public testimony was recorded in the transcript. Finance Director’s Report - The October treasurer’s report was routine; one matured investment was reinvested. - Preliminary audit fieldwork was completed successfully, with final fieldwork planned for March. - Tax bills were expected to be mailed Thursday, ahead of the statutory deadline in the third week of December. Discussion Items - Resolution R213-25 – Wildwood South tennis courts: Approved a $47,000 TID closure excess increment fund budget amendment for plans/specifications, construction inspection, court reconstruction, and contingency. Staff said the work is scheduled for 2026 and is expected to involve crack filling, joint reinforcement, and an overlay rather than full removal. The vote satisfied the required two-thirds threshold. - Resolution R215-25 – 2024 debt proceeds reallocation: Approved amending the 2025 capital projects budget because 75% of borrowed 2024 debt proceeds must be spent by Friday. Staff proposed swapping funding sources so street projects can use the borrowed funds while police facility funding remains available; total project spending is unchanged. - Resolution R216-25 – Debt service and future borrowing: Approved using about $1.2 million in special assessment payments and excess interest revenue to reduce the 2026 debt issuance for the police facility. This included about $500,000 from a deferred special assessment, about $400,000 from first-year special assessments on the tax roll, and about $175,000 in excess interest revenue. Staff said the action preserves the debt service fund’s ‘bona fide debt service’ status and helps avoid federal arbitrage calculations. - Resolution R217-25 – Finance specialist and building inspection support: Approved a 2026 general fund budget amendment that eliminates one vacant building inspection position and reduces planning intern hours to create a procurement/finance/budget specialist and fund about 8 hours per week of LTE building inspector support. Staff said the change responds to restructuring after a failed referendum; an alder noted the roughly $25,000 cost is absorbed by utilities. Staff said public safety is not expected to be jeopardized. - Resolution R218-25 – Healthy Neighborhoods Grant Program: Approved increasing the maximum grant award from $15,000 to $25,000 and adding scoring incentives for services at the future hub on Traceway Drive. Staff said about 13 grants are being managed in 2025 and the goal is fewer, larger grants. Council members asked staff to monitor impacts on other priority neighborhoods. - Resolution R222-25 – Replacement fire department staff vehicle: Approved the roughly $48,000 purchase of a Ford Explorer response vehicle through the state bid system. The fire chief said an electric vehicle was not practical for response use because of cold-weather range and electrical load issues. An alder questioned paying $2,850 extra for a non-hybrid gas drivetrain; the chief said he would check the decision. - Resolution R223-25 – Radios and accessories for fire staff vehicle: Approved about $28,000 for radio and accessory outfitting. Staff said it was the first time outfitting exceeded $25,000, but comparables with police and other agencies showed the price is consistent with the current market; delivery is expected in about three to four months. - Resolution R225-25 – Joint fire and EMS district exploration: Approved a resolution supporting collaboration with neighboring communities and authorized up to $50,000 from TID closure excess increment funds for long-range planning and consultant services. Staff noted three meetings with representatives from Fitchburg, Oregon, and Verona, including fire chiefs at the most recent meeting. - Resolution R226-25 – Transfer of DANECOM radio equipment to Dane County: Approved transferring city-owned public safety radio site equipment to Dane County. The two sites were installed around 2014 at about $1.4 million; the transfer relieves the city of about $2 million in future replacement costs and about $12,000 in annual operating costs. The 2026 budget had included the $12,000 annual cost. - Resolution R228-25 – Rejection of police facility AV bid: Approved rejecting the single bid from Fairings Audio Video for $503,706.78, which exceeded the $250,000 budget. The project will be rebid in January 2026. - Resolution R229-25 – CARPC facilitation for Southeast Fitchburg development: Approved contracting with the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission to facilitate discussions with property owners and elected officials about potential development collaboration with the Village of Oregon. The cost is about $7,700, with a 50% cost share; net city cost is about $3,650. Findings are targeted for the first quarter of 2026. - Resolution R231-25 – 2024 sidewalk replacement assessment amendment: Postponed indefinitely because another issue was discovered; no substantive vote was taken. - Resolution R238-25 – WEDC grant support: Approved a resolution supporting Rost Family Rentals LLC’s application to the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation for a Community Development Investment Grant for the proposed redevelopment at 2917 Fish Hatchery Road, including new commercial space and housing. - Resolution R241-25 – Replacement police squad: Approved purchasing a replacement squad after a Nov. 24, 2025 crash was declared a total loss by the city’s insurer. The insurer is covering the cost minus the deductible; the replacement vehicle was reportedly available on a lot. Minor injuries were reported in the crash. - Ordinance 2025-031 – Police facilities impact fee: Approved an ordinance repealing the fire facilities impact fee and creating a police facilities impact fee after the required public hearing. Fees are $861 per single-family unit, $574 per multifamily unit, $0.19 per square foot for commercial space, and $0.30 per square foot for industrial space. Staff said about 35% of the new police facility serves future growth, and the lower fee level is intended to balance revenue with development and housing affordability; estimated recovery is about $5 million versus about $8 million under the maximum study amount. Key Outcomes - All resolutions and the ordinance passed by unanimous voice vote. - Resolution R231-25 was postponed indefinitely. - The next finance meeting is scheduled for Jan. 13, 2026; the second December meeting was canceled. - The meeting adjourned at 6:26 p.m.

The Fitchburg Common Council held a brief meeting on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the GDC Lake Room. Present were Alder Logan and another council member (likely Alder Crosby based on the transcript introduction). The meeting lasted approximately three minutes, concluding at 6:03 PM. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included approval of previous meeting minutes and routine licenses. Two new licenses were introduced for a venue referred to as "Fairway Lounge" (formerly a Noodles restaurant). No questions were raised. Public Comments & Testimony - No public appearances were made for non-agenda items. Discussion Items - Class C Retailer License for Wine – Pancake Cafe Fitchburg - The council considered an application for a Class C fermented malt beverage and intoxicating liquor license (wine) for Pancake Cafe Fitchburg, located at 6220 Nesborough, doing business as Pancake Cafe Fitchburg. - Applicant Ahmed Gashi explained that his family recently purchased the restaurant and intends to primarily sell mimosas as part of the existing breakfast and lunch service. He stated that his wife and manager Maggie have completed the required alcohol training, and the staff will remain the same. No changes to the business model were planned. - Alder Logan and the other council member had no questions. The motion to approve was passed unanimously by voice vote. - Note: The agenda listed the license as "Class C retailer's license for the sale of wine," but during the vote the council referred to it as a "Class B retailer's license." This discrepancy was not addressed in the meeting. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. - The Class C (or Class B) wine license for Pancake Cafe Fitchburg was approved unanimously. - The next council meeting was announced for January 13, 2026. - The meeting was adjourned at 6:03 PM.

The Community and Economic Development Authority (CEDA) Committee met jointly with the Housing Commission on December 4, 2025, with Chair Mark Hamilton presiding. A quorum was present; new CEDA member Jake Lepper was out of town and will join in January. The meeting included a consultant housing study update, a hotel room tax report and funding request, and economic development committee reports. Consent Calendar - Approved the September 25, 2025 meeting minutes by voice vote, on a motion by Alder Sanders seconded by Alder Maldonado. - No public appearances were made for non-agenda items, and no resolutions or ordinances were presented. Housing Study Update - Kristen Fish Peterson and Dana of Redevelopment Resources presented the third housing study update. The study covers Fitchburg's jurisdictional boundaries and compares the city with Verona, Oregon, Middleton, Sun Prairie, Waunakee, DeForest, and McFarland. - Demographic highlights: approximately 15% of residents are in the oldest age cohorts, and 7% of residents 65 or older are single heads of household living alone. Single householders make up 49.1% of households. - Housing market findings: Fitchburg's owner/renter split is most comparable to Madison and Middleton. Affordability analysis used HUD fair market rents, National Low Income Housing Coalition income estimates, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupation data. Consultants described limited inventory across income brackets and a 'housing squeeze' that can make households cost-burdened. - Demand forecast: consultants projected demand for 775 rental units and about 1,205 owner-occupied units over five years, or roughly 241 owner-occupied units per year. They described the estimate as more Fitchburg-specific than the Dane County regional study because it accounts for local land constraints and opportunities. - Recommendations were organized around four goals: preserve and improve existing housing stock and support homeownership; expand housing supply and strategic land readiness; promote equitable access and prevent displacement; and strengthen collaboration, data tracking, and implementation capacity. Specific proposed tools included homeowner rehabilitation and rental rehab programs, down payment assistance, housing stability funding, missing-middle housing incentives, land banking, pre-approved development plans, transit-oriented development, employer-assisted housing, and an annual housing dashboard. - In discussion, the economic development director said the city has about $2 million identified for possible land banking and is exploring partnerships with Habitat for Humanity, a community land trust, or other entities; staff capacity and expertise remain key questions. The only notable city-owned parcel currently discussed is a sod farm west of Highway 14. Room Tax Report and Funding Request - Third-quarter room tax collections came in at $179,057, just shy of an 11% increase over the prior year. Concerts at Camp Randall were cited as a factor, while the broader market remains flat. The new 100-room Spring Hill Suites on Nesbitt Road is expected to open in late December or January. - The committee approved a $3,500 room tax request from the Chamber to support the Get Festive holiday event on December 12. Last year's support was $5,000. Economic Development and Committee Reports - Mike reported on recent publicity for The Hub and the police facility construction, the November 20 Forward Fitchburg City in Motion kickoff, and a January 15 strategy team meeting. He cited Fitchburg's ranking as most efficient in moving projects through the development entitlement pipeline, e-plan permit turnaround of 15 to 20 days, and expanded online permitting. - UW Health broke ground on a 40-bed rehabilitation hospital in Uptown Fitchburg. - Four TIF requests are being processed: General Beverage warehouse expansion off Cottonwood Drive; Oak Ridge senior housing on Nesbitt Road; redevelopment of the UPS store property at 2917 Fish Hatchery Road, possibly including 11 to 14 apartments; and Fairchild Group's clean fill site project between Highway 14 and M, with approximately 325 multifamily rental units, 20 townhome units, 34 single-family lots, and a proposed 119-unit Trilogy Health Services continuum-of-care facility. - Staff also discussed continuing work on Jamestown Quarry, an upcoming council consideration for a second Texas-wrap multifamily building, the efficiency navigator program, a November 13 funders forum on down payment assistance with more than 30 attendees, and upcoming events including Gigi's Playhouse groundbreaking and recognition of Chamber leader Angela Kinderman. Key Outcomes - Approved the September 25, 2025 minutes. - Approved the $3,500 Get Festive room tax request. - Consultant feedback is due by December 19, with the final housing study to be presented to the City Council in January. - The hotel room tax rate will increase from 7% to 8% effective January 1, 2026, as part of the 2026 budget. - Mike was recognized for his 30th year as economic development director. - The next CEDA meeting is scheduled for January 22.