Public Meetings - Fitchburg, Wisconsin

The Equity Committee met on August 26, 2026, at 5:17 PM to discuss the community engagement plan for the city's comprehensive plan update. City planners Deanna Schmidt and Brad Simple presented the timeline, phases, and proposed outreach methods. Committee members provided extensive feedback on how to ensure equitable participation, particularly for marginalized communities. The meeting also included a current events update on Hispanic Heritage Month programming. No formal votes were taken; the committee offered guiding recommendations for staff to incorporate. Discussion Items - Comprehensive Plan Update Overview: Brad Simple explained that the comprehensive plan is updated every 10 years to comply with state statute and reflect changing community priorities. The current update began in phase one (project initiation and community engagement plan development) and is expected to take about two years. The plan covers housing, land use, development, community facilities, transportation, sustainability, and more. Five phases were outlined: initiating the project/community engagement (phase one), community visioning (phase two), growth framework/scenario modeling (phase three), implementation policies (phase four), and drafting/adoption (phase five). A consultant, Housey Levine, has been contracted; the city received nine proposals. - Community Engagement Challenges: Committee members emphasized that traditional outreach (websites, surveys) often fails to reach those most impacted by policies. Barriers include language, transportation, childcare, work schedules, safety concerns (particularly for immigrant/refugee communities in the current climate), and survey fatigue. Members stressed the importance of going to where people already gather rather than expecting them to come to city hall. - Strategies for Inclusive Outreach: Suggestions included: partnering with schools (e.g., Leopold Elementary), churches, cultural organizations, and trusted community health workers; holding pop-up events at existing community gatherings (e.g., school dinners, farmers markets, movie nights); using DIY workshop kits for community organizations; working with alders to engage constituents in their districts; providing multilingual materials and interpreters, especially Spanish; ensuring anonymity in surveys to protect vulnerable populations; and establishing a feedback loop so participants see how their input is used. Specific events mentioned: community dinner at Hothahochi, Redeemer City Church Festival, Southdale Movie in the Park, and the senior center lunch-and-learn programs. - Phase Three Open House Planning: For the growth framework and scenario modeling open house, members suggested using engaging visuals like videos rather than static maps, offering food, and making the event family-friendly to attract broader attendance. They also recommended providing clear explanations of maps and using the video as a shareable social media tool. - Current Events: Janice Hughes announced two speakers for Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15–October 15): Joe Maldonado speaking on "Growing Up Puerto Rican in Wisconsin" and Aureli Estrada on Hispanic history and culture, both as part of the senior center lunch-and-learn series. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or motions were taken; the committee provided guidance for staff to incorporate into the community engagement plan. - Next meeting is scheduled for September 23, 2026. - Committee recommendations will be used to refine the engagement plan, which must be adopted by the city council. Staff will continue pop-up outreach and seek additional partners, including the healthy neighborhoods navigators and Allied Wellness Center community health workers.

Public Safety and Human Services Committee Meeting - August 25, 2026\n\nThe Public Safety and Human Services Committee of Fitchburg met on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Genie Sea League room. Chair Alder Reich called the meeting to order with all three members present (Alder Reich, Vice Chair Alder Herbst, and Alder Lepper). The meeting lasted approximately three minutes, concluding at 6:03 p.m. The committee approved a consent agenda and set the next meeting date.\n\n Consent Calendar\n- The consent agenda included approval of the August 11th meeting minutes, routine operator licenses (five new, zero renewals), and sound permit applications.\n- Sound permits were approved for three new events:\n - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Summer Church Social at McGaw Park on Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 1 to 9 p.m. with amplified sound.\n - Fitchburg Rec Department's movie in the park at South Dale Park on Monday, August 31, 2026, from 5 to 9:30 p.m. with amplified sound.\n - Madison Cat Project's Meowween Walk at McKee Farms Park on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with amplified sound.\n- Recurring event sound permits included: Terry Fox Run for Cancer Research (September 13, 4–6 p.m., McKee Farms Park); Madison Heart Walk (September 26, 6:30 a.m.–noon, McKee Farms Park); St. James School Spartan Stampede (October 17, 7–10 a.m. with amplified sound); and Sub Zero's family event (October 17, 1–5 p.m. with amplified sound at 2866 Buds Drive, Fitchburg).\n- Alder Lepper moved approval of the consent agenda; the motion passed unanimously by voice vote (all members voting aye).\n\n Discussion Items\n- Brief lighthearted exchange about the Madison Cat Project's Meowween Walk: Alder Lepper expressed personal excitement (her sister has three cats) and noted a neighborhood cat. The committee joked about checking sandboxes after the event. No substantive debate or opposition.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- The consent agenda (including minutes, operator licenses, and sound permits) was approved unanimously.\n- The next meeting was announced for September 8, 2026, with an anticipated start time of 6:00 p.m., subject to change.\n- The meeting adjourned at 6:03 p.m. on a motion by Alder Herbst, seconded by voice, carried unanimously.

The Fitchburg, Wisconsin, Finance Committee met on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, to hear the finance director's report, review city payments, and act on six resolutions concerning fire department budgets, hiring two additional career firefighters, ratifying the IAFF collective bargaining agreement, and awarding the Well Facility No. 12 construction contract. The meeting adjourned at 5:48 p.m. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the August 11, 2026, meeting were approved by voice vote with no nays recorded, on a motion by Alder Jetzer. - The detailed review of checks of $10,000 and above, issued August 1–15, 2026, totaling $2,191,794.36, was accepted with no comments or questions. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public appeared in chambers or on Zoom for public appearances on non-agenda items. Finance Director Report - Moody's issuer comment: The finance director reported that Moody's issued an issuer comment comparing the city's statistics with other triple-A-rated communities. Overall statistics are aligned with the city's rating, though one number appears incorrect and will be addressed during the 2026 debt issuance presentation. - Water utility rates: The Public Service Commission approved the city's simplified rate case; the 3% increase will be effective for September bills issued in December. - Budget process: The first budget meetings with the mayor were held that day; the mayor's proposed budget is due in mid-September, followed by a special finance committee meeting with department head presentations. - Payroll software: Two payrolls have been processed on the new UKG payroll software, and notice was given to the previous provider. The police department's paper timesheets remain a hurdle, but the finance director said the city is "on the right path" and gave "huge kudos" to the HR and payroll teams. Review of Bills — Discussion - Beaver removal: An alderperson asked about a payment to Beast Busters for beaver removal. Tim (Public Works) explained that beavers at McKee Farms Ponds were damming stormwater pipes with trees and causing flooding; two beavers were removed. - Duplicate transactions: An alderperson questioned two identical sets of transactions for Google YouTube TV and Dell PCs in the PCAR report. Scott (city staff) explained that the YouTube TV charges cover stations two and three, which cannot share one account because of different addresses; the city switched from Spectrum to YouTube TV and is saving over 50% per month, with a third transaction expected once station one is switched (with Dane County permission). The matching account numbers reflect the fire department's line (100-5220) and the sales tax reimbursement account (100-13100). Scott noted YouTube TV has been difficult regarding sales tax, but the city is confident the issue will be resolved. Resolutions - R163-26 (fire medical supplies budget amendment): Approved. Chief Sarver explained the city had surplus defibrillator pads for AEDs and monitors and resold some to Fitch-Rona, which was in a shortage position, with county involvement. - R164-26 (fire background checks budget amendment): Approved. Background check costs increased after changes made following 2025 budget planning, and the fire department exceeded HR's budgeted amount. The $12,000 transfer comes from the unused 2026 police facility utilities account and covers seven additional candidates currently in background checks. - R166-26 (hiring two additional firefighters): Approved. The chief cited staffing challenges, a diminishing pool of part-time candidates, and shorter tenure among part-timers who are hired away by other organizations. The two career firefighters will fill a significant gap and limit overtime. The amendment covers the general fund, insurance fund, and technology fund budgets. - R169-26 (2025–2027 IAFF collective bargaining agreement): Approved. The contract went through mediation and arbitration; the city prevailed in arbitration, and the agreement settles the contract in parallel with MOUs to be considered at the council meeting. - R171-26 (Well Facility No. 12 bid award): Approved. The 2018 Water System Master Plan recommends a new high-capacity well. The project was advertised by legal notice on July 22 and July 29, 2026, in the Wisconsin State Journal and on QuestCDN.com. JH Hassinger Incorporated's low bid of $3,725,045 was found compliant; the award is $3,911,297.25 including a 5% contingency, under the engineer's estimate. The resolution includes a two-thirds budget amendment vote to use park improvement fees and fees in lieu of land dedication for restrooms and a concrete pathway serving Stoner Prairie Park. The committee approved the staff-recommended version that includes the budget amendment (which was not in the original Board of Public Works packet), and council should approve the version approved by finance. - R173-26 (IAFF Local 311 MOUs): Approved. The MOUs cover bilingual incentive pay, minimum staffing, and PTO scheduling, with expiration dates to be established going forward. The mandatory overtime scheduling provision in the minimum staffing MOU was eliminated. Announcements - The next Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for September 8, 2026. - In response to Alder Jetzer's prior question, staff reported that a purchase related to parcel 12 paid to Dane County stems from the Fitchrona Road project and eminent domain transactions; the payment was required based on the current status of that process. Key Outcomes - All six resolutions were approved by voice vote with no nays recorded. - The minutes, the detailed check registers (totaling $2,191,794.36 for checks over $10,000 and $2,333,918.52 for all checks issued, August 1–15, 2026), and PCAR transactions totaling $227,295.14 were approved. - The Well Facility No. 12 contract will be awarded to JH Hassinger Inc. at $3,911,297.25, with the park-related budget amendment requiring a two-thirds council vote. - The next Finance Committee meeting will be held September 8, 2026.

The Fitchburg Common Council met on August 25, 2026, for a regular meeting that included a mayoral proclamation, a contentious rezoning decision, multiple fire department resolutions, adoption of a traffic impact analysis ordinance, and various committee reports. The meeting lasted approximately two hours and twelve minutes. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved by voice vote. (Individual items not specified in the transcript.) Public Comments & Testimony - Rezoning (RZ 2661-26): David Hay (Fitchburg resident) spoke in opposition, stating the project was “not baked yet” and raised concerns about process inconsistencies and consistency with the comprehensive plan. He noted the Plan Commission’s split 4-3 vote as evidence of uncertainty. - Fire Department Resolutions: A resident (identified as David) criticized the city’s communication on major capital projects, citing a $40 million police facility and a $12 million city hall remodeling, and urged better outreach to constituents. - Traffic Impact Analysis Ordinance: David Hay registered in opposition but left before speaking; his opposition was noted for the record. Discussion Items - Mayoral Proclamation: Mayor Julia Ratafrata proclaimed September 2026 as Hunger Action Month, stating that more than 72,000 people in Dane County, including nearly 19,000 children, experience food insecurity. A representative from Second Harvest Food Bank expressed gratitude and highlighted mobile pantries in Fitchburg. - Administrator’s Report: Upcoming events were announced: Gigi’s Playhouse ribbon cutting (Aug 26), County MM bike/pedestrian underpass public meeting (Aug 27, 5:30–6:30 PM at Fire Station 3), Redeemer City Church neighborhood festival (Aug 29, 4–7 PM), deadline for comprehensive plan update work group applications (Aug 30), movie night at Southdale Park (Aug 31, community meal at 5:30 PM, movie at 7 PM), Fitrona Road reconstruction utility work through November, splash pad closing after Labor Day, and primary election results (approximately 6,400 in-person votes, 2,600 absentee, 47% turnout). - Mayor’s Report: Community listening sessions continue; the 2027 budget process began; the 2027 budget survey received about 500 responses (open until Aug 31). The mayor attended a chief executive workshop covering housing, data centers, e-bikes, and municipal funding. She also congratulated the police department for Community Night Out and the clerk’s office for the primary. - Rezoning (RZ 2661-26 / Ordinance 2026-025): The council considered a request to rezone property on Traceway Drive from PDD SIP to PDD GIP to allow a 140-unit affordable housing development (30–80% AMI) in two 4-story buildings (70 units each). An amendment corrected the density from 29 to 26 units per acre. The Plan Commission recommended approval with a 4-3 vote. Developer David Givers (EJ Plesco & Associates) explained the project is time-sensitive due to a WEDA tax credit deadline of November 30, 2026. Discussion focused on surface versus underground parking, density concerns, a potential TIF request ($2 million), and design. Several alders expressed concerns about density and parking, but others emphasized the need for affordable housing. The amended ordinance was approved 7-1 (Alder Jetzer opposed). - Fire Department Resolutions (six items): - R16626: Authorized immediate hiring of two additional firefighters using one-time funds from the police facility operating surplus. Supported as a short-term staffing solution; approved unanimously on roll call. - R16926: Ratified the 2025–2027 collective bargaining agreement with IAFF Local 311, including a paid time off bank, a new step on the wage schedule, and 3% cost-of-living adjustments for each year. Approved by voice vote. - R17326: Approved multiple memoranda of understanding on minimum career staffing, mandatory overtime, bilingual incentive pay, and acting officer compensation. Approved by voice vote. - R16326: Amended the 2026 general fund budget to account for transferring defibrillator pads from the fire department to EMS. Approved unanimously on roll call. - R16426: Amended the budget to fund physical and psychological background checks for paid-on-call firefighters. Approved by voice vote. - Urban Service Area Amendment (R16826): Authorized a request to the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission to expand the urban service area by 75 acres for a Wisconsin Department of Corrections juvenile facility (southwest of US 14 and north of County M). Utilities will be provided by the Village of Oregon; stormwater management remains with Fitchburg. Approved by voice vote. - Traffic Impact Analysis Ordinance (2026-021): Amended city code to create clear requirements for traffic impact analyses (TIAs) based on development size (small, medium, large). Staff will maintain flexible guidelines that can be updated without council action. Approved by voice vote. - Subdivision Improvements – Jamestown Quarry: - R16126: First amendment to the subdivision improvement agreement delaying signage installation until December 1, 2026, due to material lead times. Approved by voice vote. - R16226: Acceptance of public improvements for phase two (retail center and second Texas RAP building). Approved by voice vote. - R17626: Approval of assignment and assumption of the subdivision improvements agreement from Wingra Real Estate LLC to Fitchburg Partners LLC. Approved by voice vote. - Well Facility 12 (R1712): Accepted the low bid of $3,725,000 from J.H. Hassinger for construction of the well house. The well is already drilled to 1,033 feet. Approved unanimously on roll call. - Farmland Preservation Map (R16026): Approved an update to the farmland preservation plan map to reflect current agricultural zoning, including two properties retained in ag zoning. Approved by voice vote. - Committee Reports: - Plan Commission: Also handled a conditional use for an additional farm residence on Hate Farm Road (moving a house for an elderly parent), a minor PDD amendment for Inspiration at Swan Creek, a presentation on data center zoning guidance, and an intern’s analysis on taxes per square foot (showing higher density yields more tax revenue per acre). - Transportation & Transit Commission (TTC): Reported on Schumann Drive traffic calming (paint installed), a Metro Transit mid-year budget update (3% cost increase for 2027 due to prior underpayment), the Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (proposals due Aug 31), and a speed limit pilot on Research Park Drive (average speed dropped 0.9 mph, 85th percentile dropped 2 mph). - Board of Public Works: Provided updates on County MM underpass meeting (Aug 27), Adams Road closure, 2026 resurfacing (Tower Hill pending utility work), sidewalk replacement, Wheel and Road Shoulders project, and Fitrona Road construction. - Library Board: Approved annual policy reviews and first draft of 2027 budget (includes increased utility and repair budgets). - Commission on Aging: Thanked participants for the Senior Center celebration. - Resource Conservation Commission: Announced Green Thursday movie (Sept 3, “Poisoned”), fall shredding/e-recycling event (Sept 19), and Stormwater Awareness Week (Sept 19–27). - Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission: Fitchburg ranked first among cities for bicycle-friendly businesses. - EMS Commission: Recognized retiring paramedic Tom Bates (35 years), approved purchase of a replacement support vehicle (partially funded by $85,000 from Epic), and discussed the status of a permanent part-time paramedic MOU (sent back to union due to disagreement over weekly hour cap). - Healthy Neighborhood Advisory Committee: No new updates. - Housing Advisory Committee: Reported on the Ali senior affordable housing renovation (41 units, $6 million, 100% resident return) and a tour of Bayview Community Center (passive house) on Sept 30. - Finance Committee: Received positive Moody’s statistics, approved PSC water rate case (effective with September bills), noted budget meetings underway, confirmed payroll software transition, and reported removal of beavers from McKee Farms stormwater ponds. Key Outcomes - Rezoning (RZ 2661-26) approved (7-1 roll call; Alder Jetzer opposed). - Firefighter hiring (R16626) approved (unanimous roll call, 8-0). Hiring process to start immediately. - Collective bargaining agreement (R16926) approved (voice vote). - MOUs (R17326) approved (voice vote). - Medical supplies budget amendment (R16326) approved (unanimous roll call). - POC background checks budget amendment (R16426) approved (voice vote). - Urban service area amendment (R16826) approved (voice vote). - Traffic impact analysis ordinance (2026-021) approved (voice vote). - First amendment to Jamestown Quarry SIA (R16126) approved (voice vote). - Acceptance of Jamestown Quarry phase two improvements (R16226) approved (voice vote). - Well facility 12 bid (R1712) approved (unanimous roll call). - Farmland preservation map (R16026) approved (voice vote). - Assignment of SIA for Jamestown Quarry (R17626) approved (voice vote). - Next Committee of the Whole meeting: August 26, 2026, at 6:30 PM (topic: municipal budgeting). - Next regular Common Council meeting: September 8, 2026.

The Fitchrona EMS District Commission met on Thursday, August 20, 2026, with a quorum present. There was no public comment. The commission conducted ceremonial recognitions, approved routine items, discussed the chief's operational report, authorized a new response support vehicle purchase, and approved a permanent part-time paramedic MOU. Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals - Approved the July 16, 2026 meeting minutes by voice vote. - Approved the GASB 54 resolution; the post-retirement health care fund balance reported was $482,511. - Approved accounts payable checks. One check reimbursed a resident for a basketball hoop struck by an ambulance; the cost was paid directly rather than through an insurance claim. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments. Recognition and Ceremonial Items - Tom Bates was honored with a plaque for his service. The chief said Bates started as an EMT with Fitchrona in 1989 or 1990, totaling 36 years of service, and is only the second person after Ron Martin to reach 35 years at Fitchrona. Bates said he joined in 1990 because Fitchrona was regarded as the best EMS in the county. - Madeline Kramlett was sworn in as an EMT and received her badge from her mentor, Paramedic Hayden Latch, as part of Fitchrona's two-year paramedic internship program. - Andrew Jensen was sworn in and promoted from paramedic to lieutenant, receiving his lieutenant badge. Chief's Report and Operational Discussion - The chief reported a busy July 2026: 492 calls, bringing year-to-date call volume to 72% of the annual projection. Mutual aid from Madison and Oregon added about eight calls to the district. - Staff participated in Fitchburg Library's 'Touch a Truck' and Verona's National Night Out. - On the aging report, the chief said there is no strong industry standard; after questions raised last month, accounting firm Johnson Block provided articles, but those articles were written by EMS billing companies. Work continues on reducing over-180-day receivables. - The billing company EMSMC keeps 6% of amounts billed; if an account goes to a collection agency, the agency keeps 20%, compared with 33% under the prior collection agency. - As of the end of July, the district had not yet received second-half municipal funds; the chief planned to follow up. - Deputy chief hiring: 11 applicants were narrowed to 7; phone interviews were scheduled for the following Monday and Tuesday, with panel interviews slated for September 1-2. The goal is to finish by mid-October so the hire could start in early November. Some out-of-state candidates may face Wisconsin paramedic licensure challenges. - A former employee filed a Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development wrongful-termination complaint; the district has 21 days to respond and the matter is with the attorney. Arbitration on a personnel complaint remains set for the end of September. - A previously requested count of uninsured patients was deferred to the next meeting. Replacement Response Support Vehicle - The commission considered a resolution (listed on the agenda as 2026-08; the chief said the number should likely be 2026-07) to purchase a replacement response support vehicle. - The proposal would replace the 2010 SUV with a larger utility vehicle, eliminate the rehab trailer, and support training, supplies, first response, and rehab. The vehicle includes lights and sirens and would be used for meetings, CPR classes, deliveries, and emergency first response. - Funding: approximately $250,000 total, using roughly $80,000 from an Epic Software donation (unofficial amount), $72,000 in FAP funds, and $100,000 from the unassigned fund balance. Additional funds would cover a radio, MDT, and graphics. - The old 2010 vehicle, with about 55,000 miles, would first be offered to the cities and then auctioned, with proceeds returning to the unassigned fund balance. The trailer, originally obtained free from the county, would be offered free to anyone wanting it. - The commission approved the purchase by voice vote with no opposition. The vehicle has about a 12-month build process. Permanent Part-Time Paramedic MOU - The commission voted to take the tabled MOU back up for discussion. - The revised MOU defines permanent part-time as less than full-time, without a specific hour threshold in the collective bargaining agreement; guarantees benefits based on a 24-hour week (two 12-hour shifts); allows additional shifts without monthly benefit recalculation; and includes protections intended to prevent replacing full-time positions with multiple part-timers. The chief described this as the first represented permanent part-time position in Dane County and part of a four-year path toward converting these positions to full-time. - Other changes: sick-time payout cap raised from 96 to 144 hours; part-timers start with a 24-hour PTO bank; vacation accrual includes a four-year step; funeral leave increased from one to two paid days; pay scale mirrors full-timers; proposed start date is September. - The outstanding issue is the union's request to cap permanent part-timers at 24 hours per week. The chief said he is unwilling to agree to that limit, because full-timers may also pick up shifts without gaining extra benefits. A commissioner expressed concern that a 24-hour cap could reduce community access to a willing, licensed provider; another commissioner argued approving the MOU was worthwhile because if the union rejects it, the proposal simply does not take effect. - The commission approved the MOU on a 5-0 roll-call vote, with the understanding that final union concurrence is still pending. Other Business and Next Steps - The annual district meeting will be held in October; all municipalities are invited, and the medical director will present on medical director activities and next-year goals. - The commission adjourned after noting next month's meeting. One commissioner noted a possible absence due to a conflict. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes, GASB 54 resolution, and accounts payable checks. - Approved replacement response support vehicle purchase, committing $100,000 from unassigned fund balance plus FAP and Epic funds; no opposition. - Approved permanent part-time paramedic MOU, 5-0, with final union agreement on the remaining 24-hour work cap still required. - Directed follow-up on deputy chief interviews (September 1-2), DWD complaint response (within 21 days), and municipal fund deposits.

The Fitchburg Library Board met on August 19, 2026, at 5:30 PM. The meeting covered approval of previous minutes, financial reports, review and approval of several library policies, a detailed draft budget presentation for 2027, and updates on library statistics, facilities, and personnel. Key concerns included rising IT costs, utility funding gaps, and future staffing needs to meet Dane County Library Standards. Consent Calendar - Approval of the July 2026 meeting minutes (motion by Brett, unanimous). - Approval of the May Financial Register and Overview (motion by John, unanimous). The financial report included a note about an overspent account for building repairs (swipe card issue), low spending in account 387 due to system migration, and a costly dishwasher replacement (initially $488 for a non-ADA model, then $976 for an ADA-compliant model; the first was sold for $200). Public Comments & Testimony - No public appearances were made. Discussion Items - Policy Reviews: The board reviewed and discussed five policies: - Circulation Policy: Clarified laptop checkout (no need to leave ID if have library card), removed limit of 100 items/75 holds (due to rare patron categories), and added a 16-year-old minimum to request interlibrary loan items (to avoid high replacement costs for minors). Staff ensure fidelity through training, shadowing, and printed policy binders at service points. - Community Bulletin Board Policy: No significant changes; clarified that religious/political materials with primary effect to proselytize for a single point of view are not displayed. A board member asked if candidate-specific materials are covered; the consensus was yes. - Laptop Checkout Policy: Laptops are for in-building use only, require user 16+ (or parent checkout), and replacement cost is $800. Limit of 2 laptops per person to avoid monopolization. - Privacy of Library Records and Library Use Policy: Explains patron privacy, Wisconsin Statute 4330, and that staff cannot give account info to others without authorization (even spouses/parents of adults). Age 16 is the legal threshold for independent account rights. - Theft of Library Materials Policy: Reflects state statute; includes concealment (hiding items) as theft. Used previously during Pride Month when books were hidden. - Draft Budget for 2027: Director presented a $216,000 shortfall (to be covered from assigned fund balance, leaving $8,666 in that account). Revenue includes 2.6% net new construction growth and a county payment increase to $28,000. Expenditure concerns: IT capital allocation rose 112% to $21,000 (subject to further discussion with city IT). Utility account underfunded (projected overspent, but may be covered by year-end savings). Director noted that to meet Dane County Library Standards, a half-time position will likely need to be added next year due to population growth (current at 19.83 FTE with credits, cap at 25 FTE). The standards also require increasing materials expenditure (account 387 to $190,000). Board discussed the possibility of changing standards or county funding formula, but recognized difficulty. The draft budget will return for further revisions before final council approval in November. - President's Report: Noted upcoming annual performance review of the library director (closed session in September). - City Council Liaison Report: The city approved the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) with no changes to library items; an amendment to add solar funding was withdrawn due to liability concerns (reference to existing solar issues on library building). Staff is working on a budget amendment for solar repairs. - Library Director's Report: July statistics showed circulation back to normal after system migration. Summer reading participation jumped significantly, partly due to switch from BeanStack app to paper registration. Door counts high. Wireless sessions increased (likely due to recalculation). Holds data still unavailable from new system. Facilities issues: walk-through door lock failure, front door swipe card problems (ongoing). New staff hired; one shelver position to be filled. Strategic planning: forming marketing work group. System change: checkout histories prior to January 1, 2020 will be purged by October 1, 2026 (to speed up system); heavy users (10 with 4,000 items) will be individually notified to download their data. Key Outcomes - All five policies (Circulation, Community Bulletin Board, Laptop Checkout, Privacy of Library Records, Theft of Library Materials) were approved unanimously by voice vote. - The draft budget for 2027 was approved unanimously as a working document, pending further adjustments and final council approval. - Next meeting scheduled for September 16, 2026, at 5:30 PM. Meeting adjourned by motion.

The Fitchburg Police and Fire Commission met on August 19, 2026, beginning at 5:03 p.m. The commission received monthly Fire and Police Department reports, entered two closed sessions for personnel matters, and approved several staffing and promotion actions. No agenda or minutes were available; this summary is based solely on the transcript. No public comments were made. Meeting Call, Minutes, and Public Appearances - The chair called the meeting to order at 5:03 p.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. - The commission unanimously approved the July 15, 2026 PFC minutes. - No public appearances or comments were made for non-agenda items. Fire Department Report - Chief Sarver reported a busy July: 301 calls, up roughly 29 from last year (a figure that appears inconsistent with his projection of about a 1% increase for the year). - A lightning-strike fire last week caused a roof and attic fire; crews achieved a fast knockdown and saved the home from major damage. The department also conducted many inspections. - Response times increased in the month; the chief said the increase may be geographic and the department is reviewing the data. The goal is to stay under six minutes and closer to five. - Staffing: the department is still onboarding POX firefighters; background-check delays have been resolved. Three POX battalion chiefs are now in place and will be scheduling full shifts for the rest of the month and year. - Overtime: 826 hours of overtime equated to $38,000, reflecting a career-staff-heavy overtime month. Mandated overtime increased in July due to heavy PTO use, and the department continues working to reduce overtime spending. - Staffing metric: fire crews had three-person staffing 44% of the time and four-person staffing 56% of the time in July. With interns returning to college next month, the chief expects daytime four-person staffing challenges and plans to continue public reporting. Police Department Report - Chief Morales reported the department is at 52 sworn officers, with two vacancies from full budgeted staffing. A fall hiring process is planned; 22 candidates were described as waiting for interviews (the transcript phrase "23 22" is unclear). No academy remains this year, but qualified candidates could be onboarded before the January academy. - Current availability: one officer on field training, five at the academy, three on limited duty. Counting these and the vacancies, 11 positions are unfilled or unavailable to patrol on their own. The chief hopes to reach full staffing by the end of the year for the first time since January 2022. - Calls for service have shown a drop in both citizen and officer-generated calls since the switch to county dispatch last November; officer-generated calls are expected to rise with better staffing, and citizen-call comparisons will be more meaningful next year. - Crime: one shooting occurred in July in the Southdale neighborhood; it was a dispute between known actors, all suspects were taken into custody, evidence was recovered, and cases are pending court. - Two burglaries were reported in July. The department sees burglaries and thefts from autos as related, happening mostly at storage units and garages at multi-apartment complexes. The problem is sporadic across north Fitchburg, is spreading into southern Madison, and has led to some arrests but not the reduction desired. - Shots-fired incidents increased because of the July shooting; the chief otherwise characterized crime statistics as relatively good and expects investigations and patrol to help reduce crime. Closed Sessions and Personnel Actions - The commission entered closed session under Wisconsin's personnel closed-meeting statute to discuss Fire Department hiring from the career firefighter eligibility and fire science resident intern lists, and later to consider extending a patrol sergeant offer. - Returning to open session, the commission approved: - Hiring two career firefighter positions from the eligibility list and hiring interns as needed for vacant positions. - Starting a fire science resident intern recruitment if needed. - Promoting Officer Matthew Tesh to patrol sergeant (the transcript also spells the rank as "parole sergeant" once). Announcements - An announcement was made about a badge-related requirement/ceremony; officials confirmed it is required and will be held in chambers. Key Outcomes - Approved July 15, 2026 minutes. - Authorized two career firefighter hires and intern hiring as needed. - Authorized fire science resident intern recruitment if needed. - Approved promotion of Officer Matthew Tesh to patrol sergeant. - All votes passed with no stated opposition. - Adjourned by motion after the agenda was completed.

The Egg and Rural Affairs Committee of the Fitchburg Common Council met on August 18, 2026. The committee unanimously approved a conditional use permit for a second farm residence, adopted the annual update to the Farmland Preservation Map, and received briefings on regional planning efforts and the comprehensive plan update. Consent Calendar - The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke on non-agenda items. Discussion Items - Conditional Use Permit – Bo Stafford: The committee considered a permit request from Bo Stafford to establish a second farm residence at 4957 Haight Farm Road. City Planner Deanna Schmidt detailed the proposal, which involves moving an existing home from Mutchler Road onto the farm for the applicant's father. The property is zoned A Transitional, which shares the same standards as the Exclusive Agriculture (AX) district. Staff recommended approval under Section 22-483-1, which permits a second farm residence to be occupied by an owner or operator of the farm or a parent or child of the owner or operator. Committee members questioned the long-term implications of the occupancy restrictions, with staff clarifying that the conditional use is specifically tied to those criteria and the owner accepts the associated risks. The committee approved the permit with the six conditions recommended by staff. - Farmland Preservation Map Update: Community Development Planner Brad Simple presented the annual update to the city's Farmland Preservation Plan Map. The update incorporates changes from recent certified survey maps (CSMs) and reflects the retention of AX zoning for specific parcels in the McGaw area. Portions removed from the preservation area were marked in orange, while additions were marked in green. The committee approved the updated map without modification. Department Reports - Fitchburg-Oregon Study: Staff provided an update on the joint planning study with the Village of Oregon for the southeast portion of the city. The next phase will involve more detailed land use layout and discussions regarding utility service, which Oregon is anticipated to provide. A separate, limited urban service area amendment is being processed through the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission (CARPC) to allow Oregon to extend sewer and water service specifically to the proposed Department of Corrections juvenile facility and the Grow Academy. - Comprehensive Plan Update: Staff announced that the comprehensive plan contract with consultant House-Aline Levine has been finalized. A kickoff open house is scheduled for October 21, 2026, at Hosta'hochi, and a joint working group meeting with the Plan Commission is scheduled for October 20, 2026. The working group is currently recruiting members, aiming for a diverse committee of less than 12 individuals. The planning process is estimated to take 18 to 24 months, and staff plan to hold an Egg and Rural focus group in conjunction with the November committee meeting to gather community input. A zoning code rewrite is expected to follow immediately after the comprehensive plan is approved. Key Outcomes - Conditional Use Permit Approved: The committee voted unanimously to approve a conditional use permit for Bo Stafford for a second farm residence at 4957 Haight Farm Road, subject to the six conditions provided by staff. - Farmland Preservation Map Approved: The committee voted unanimously to approve the 2026 annual update to the Farmland Preservation Plan Map. - Next Steps for Comp Plan: The committee received the schedule for the comprehensive plan update, including the October kickoff events and the planned November focus group for the Egg and Rural community.

The Fitchburg Plan Commission met at 6:30 p.m. on August 18, 2026, and adjourned at 9:30 p.m. During the meeting, the commission approved a farm-residence conditional use permit, a multifamily rezone, two architectural design reviews, a minor planned development district amendment, two resolutions, and discussed possible future data center zoning. Call to Order and Minutes - The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. - The commission approved the minutes of the July 21, 2026 Plan Commission meeting by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public appeared during the non-agenda public appearances portion. - For conditional use CU 266026, no one spoke during the public hearing; staff noted that the applicant was present for questions and that Mike Croft registered support in writing. - Bill Jetzer spoke in support of the Tracy Way multifamily rezone. He said Fitchburg needs more affordable housing and expressed disappointment that the proposed density was not higher, citing nearby Bowman Plaza as a much denser example. He urged high density along the transit- and future-BRT-served corridor next to the Fitchburg Ridge shopping center and the Hostahochi community center. - Ron Golly, representing the Swan Creek of Nine Springs Homeowners Association, and Randy Smith, its president, opposed the fence-allowance portion of the Inspiration at Swan Creek minor PDD amendment. They argued that Swan Creek covenants prohibit fences, that the developer had promised to mirror those covenants, and that allowing fences at Inspiration Point would undermine the open, no-fence character of Swan Creek. Discussion Items - CU 266026 — Second Farm Residence at 4957 Haight Farm Road: The applicant requested a conditional use permit under Section 22-483(1) for a second farm residence on AG-Transitional land. The residence would house the applicant's father by moving an existing home from the Lacey farm on Mutchler Road to west of the existing house and garage. Staff explained that Common Council Ordinance 2026-08, adopted in May 2026, created the conditional use for second farm residences in exclusive agriculture/AG zoning, and that AG-Transitional standards are the same as exclusive agriculture. Staff recommended approval with six conditions, and the commission approved it by voice vote. - RZ 266126 — Tracy Way Multifamily Rezone: The applicant, represented by David Gevers of EJ Plesko Associates, requested a rezone from PDD-SIP to PDD-GIP to allow multifamily development on Tracy Way Drive Lot 1 / CSN 15059. The project proposes two four-story buildings with 140 units leased at 30–80 percent of Dane County median income, plus a fitness center, management office, club room, recreation space, and surface parking at 1.1 stalls per unit. Staff noted that the site received PDD-SIP approval in March 2022 for a market-rate plan with underground parking, and that the current proposal is oriented differently, removes ground-floor walkouts, uses only surface parking, and is lower-density than recent corridor approvals. Staff also noted the applicant's total investment estimate of $22.5 million but assessed value of about $9.2 million, and a related TID opportunity cost. The applicant said the first phase consists of 70 affordable units awarded WHEDA 9% tax credits, with the second 70-unit phase dependent on a future WHEDA application, and that the tax-credit program limits units per project. The applicant said underground parking is costly and had been financially unsuccessful at High Line. Density estimates varied: a public commenter cited about 26 units per acre, the developer said about 29–30, and a commissioner suggested about 27. The applicant said the SIP submitted the day before the meeting maintains the 1.1 parking ratio with roughly 156 spaces. Multiple commissioners raised concerns about surface-only parking, family accessibility, precedent, and uncertainty that phase two will be built. The commission approved the rezone with 11 conditions on a 4-3 roll call vote. - ADR — City Hall Campus Renovation: The applicant requested architectural design review approval for exterior renovations at the city hall campus at 5520 Lacy Road. The project includes entry plaza landscaping, a new staff entrance and patio on the west side, removal of the former police entrance after police vacate in spring 2027, a consolidated public entrance at the second-floor south entrance, native perennial planting, a pergola, benches, an emergency egress door, and replacement windows and doors. Staff initially raised concerns about tree loss, seating, and light pole height; the applicant agreed to review the light pole height and to replace service berry trees. Staff recommended approval with six conditions, and the commission approved it by voice vote. - ADR — Fitchburg Well Number 12: The applicant requested architectural design review approval for a municipal well and park facility at 2765 Wayfair Street, adjacent to Stoner Prairie Park. The 52-foot by 45-foot well house includes generator, pump, fluoride, and sodium rooms, plus year-round public restrooms and drinking fountains. Since the previous July 2025 approval, the open-air shelter was removed, the roof was redesigned, and door locations were adjusted. A generator will be exercised monthly and noise will not exceed 65 decibels at the property line. The proposed solar array was removed from the project, although conduits would allow a future array; the designing engineer estimated that a future array would provide only 2.4 percent of the facility's required power. Work was planned to begin the following month with completion in December 2027. Staff recommended approval with five conditions, and the commission approved it by voice vote. - Minor PDD Amendment — Inspiration at Swan Creek SIP: The applicant requested amendments to the approved PDD-SIP to clarify architectural design for homes along Sassafras, allow window wells, and allow fences with approval of the architectural control committee. The development remains 57 units. Staff said the city reviews only zoning requirements, not private covenants or deed restrictions, and that fences are allowed under the city's current single-family zoning. After public objections, the commission approved the amendment as amended by striking the proposed fence-allowance item entirely. - Resolution R-168-26 — Urban Service Area Amendment: Staff presented a resolution authorizing submission of an application to amend the urban service area so the Village of Oregon could provide sanitary service to the proposed Wisconsin Department of Corrections juvenile facility and the existing GROW Academy. The project area is southwest of US Highway 14 / north of County Highway M. Staff noted a 1984 urban service area covering 345 acres of DOC property, prior 2025 conditional use and CSM approvals, and a May 2026 water service agreement. One single-family house in a notch area was excluded for now, with future master planning possible. The commission approved the resolution by voice vote. - Resolution R-160-26 — Farmland Preservation Map Update: Staff presented the updated farmland preservation map to match exclusive agriculture zoning after earlier agricultural zoning updates. Green parcels were added, including Bowman parcels, while orange parcels were removed, including residential/non-AG parcels from the Mark Jones lot, the Johanning CSM, and two Adams Road CSMs. Dark green parcels were characterized as long-term farmland preservation over 30 years, while lighter green parcels were in adopted neighborhood plans. The commission approved the resolution by voice vote. - Data Center Zoning Discussion: Staff reported that there are currently no data center applications in Fitchburg, no non-disclosure agreements, and that staff has met with two to three interested entities. The discussion distinguished hyperscale AI training facilities, smaller AI inference facilities, and co-location facilities, with staff noting Fitchburg likely could only accommodate smaller facilities because of land and utility constraints. The existing data center off Nobel Drive was cited as an example; it was first permitted in 2007, has about 60,000 square feet and about five acres, runs at just under six megawatts, and has six generators owned by MGE. Existing zoning for that site includes a project-specific noise limit of 42.5 dBA at the Quarry Hill residential property line, while the city's general noise standard is 65 dBA at property lines. Staff noted that US Signal is interested in expanding, but that new diesel generators may not fit existing standards, so new standards may be needed. Potential zoning tools discussed included definitions, conditional use permits, buffers, performance standards, floor area ratio, and architectural design standards. Staff noted limits on regulating business operations, end users, or server counts through zoning. Commissioners discussed developer agreements, avoiding TIF for data centers, coordinating with neighboring communities, and whether a moratorium is needed. No formal action was taken, and no timeline for a draft ordinance was set. Department Reports & Other Business - Planning staff announced that applications for the Comprehensive Plan work group are open until August 31, 2026. A joint Plan Commission/work group kickoff is planned for October 20, 2026, with a community open house on October 21, 2026. - Planning intern Miranda presented a fiscal analysis showing property taxes were the largest category of 2025 general revenue. Key findings included: multifamily performs best in taxes per square foot; commercial and industrial perform worst; lot coverage percentage has the strongest association with tax performance; newer single-family housing performs better than older single-family; and denser neighborhoods such as Crescent Crossing generate more revenue and house more residents with less infrastructure per dwelling unit than comparable lower-density neighborhoods. - The TTC report noted approval of a resolution formalizing traffic impact analysis requirements, to go to Common Council the following week. Key Outcomes - CU 266026 approved with six conditions. - RZ 266126 approved with 11 conditions by roll call vote of 4-3. Yeas: Jason Rice, Shelley Malowski, Gabriela Gerhardt, Julia Aradafrata. Nays: Carol Poole, Josh Nackert, Stephen Heller. - ADR for City Hall campus renovation approved with six conditions. - ADR for Fitchburg Well Number 12 approved with five conditions. - Inspiration at Swan Creek minor PDD amendment approved as amended by striking the proposed fence-allowance item entirely. - Resolution R-168-26 approved. - Resolution R-160-26 approved. - Data center discussion concluded with no formal action; staff will continue considering potential zoning standards, with no established timeline.