Public Meetings - Fitchburg, Wisconsin

The Fitchburg Police and Fire Commission met on July 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM (UTC). The meeting covered staffing reports, crime and fire response statistics, budget-driven staffing reductions, and closed-session actions to conditionally hire new officers and a battalion chief. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the June 17, 2026, meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present or joined online, so no public testimony was heard. Discussion Items - Police Department Report (Chief Morales): - Staffing: Three vacancies exist; three recruits are at the academy, one is in field training, and three officers are on restricted duty. This leaves ten unfilled positions. The chief requested conditional offers for three candidates in closed session. - Call data: The department is struggling to accurately record citizen-generated and officer-initiated calls after the loss of dispatch services; they plan to compare year-over-year data once a full year is available. - Crime statistics: No homicides; one burglary (subject in custody); one stolen vehicle; one shots-fired incident (subject in custody, firearm recovered, under investigation); six firearms seized; one drug-related robbery; 13 domestic violence incidents. Aggravated assaults are leveling off but burglaries remain a concern. Theft from autos is still high but showed improvement in June. Shots fired are consistent with last year's lower totals. - Traffic: 24 serious crashes (state reports filed) and 56 driver-exchange type accidents (no report but documented) for June. Overall accident trends are down, particularly for serious crashes. Traffic enforcement activity is down due to vacancies and officer reassignments. - Fire Department Report (Chief Sarberts): - Responses are trending similar to last year with no major spikes. Average response time is under six minutes for the year. - Staffing: One member left for nursing school; vacancies are being filled. The department brought on eight POX (part-time) firefighters, adding 500 more hours from May to June (1,419 to 1,950 hours), but total dollar amounts decreased due to lower POX costs. Some POX firefighters may leave for career jobs near Milwaukee. - Mandates (overtime shifts): Six mandates in June, down from 23 in May, attributed to improved staffing. - New metric: Reduced engine staffing to three firefighters when a fourth would require overtime (except for skilled positions). This change, driven by budget constraints, reduces capability. In the first 15 days of July, both rigs had four-person staffing 56% of the time. The chief emphasized this is a reduction and not a rationalization; the department is seeking grants and creative funding to restore full staffing. - Training center: Used shipping containers were placed yesterday; the center will be four times the original size and operational in about a month, funded through TID money. - Cancer screening: Ultrasound screening for seven major organs was completed (18 firefighters participated, self-paid, also offered to city staff). - Extrication class: Scheduled for first weekend in October, in partnership with a manufacturer, offering free spots and inviting other Dane County/Wisconsin firefighters. Key Outcomes - Closed Session – Police: The commission entered closed session under Wisconsin statute 19.85(1)(c) to consider conditional offers for police officer positions. Returning to open session, they unanimously approved a motion authorizing the chief to make conditional offers to three police officer candidates. - Closed Session – Fire: The commission entered closed session to consider a conditional offer for the position of POX Battalion Chief. Returning to open session, they unanimously approved a motion authorizing the chief to make a conditional offer of employment for the POX Battalion Chief position. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned with no further announcements.

The Fitchburg Public Library Board met on July 15, 2026, to approve routine financial reports, review and adopt several library policies, receive updates from the city council liaison and the library director, and discuss upcoming events. All actions were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote. - April Financial Report & Overview: The board approved the April financial report after Director Wendy highlighted several items: salaries and wages were normal with a two-pay-period month; expenses in account 325 covered staff reimbursements for the public libraries association conference; account 340 included supplies for staff training and in-service for the new ILS system; account 387 (collections) showed very low expenditures due to the system outage that halted ordering for nearly three months. Director noted that revenue from copy fees had been accidentally deposited into the donations account and will be corrected. Donations appear low but are expected to increase once Friends annual giving from June is reflected. The board approved the report. Discussion Items - Collection Management Policy (6A1): Tegan presented the policy with a new section addressing artificial intelligence (AI). The policy states that selectors will avoid adding works entirely generated by AI, while AI-assisted works will be held to the same selection standards as other materials. Board members discussed how to handle inadvertently purchased AI-generated works (e.g., removal or refund) and whether a future provision might allow adding AI-generated works for demonstration/educational purposes. The policy was approved unanimously. - Reconsideration Form Policy: Presented with no changes. Director shared that the library has received only two reconsideration requests since opening: one for a dated book on eating disorders (removed) and one for a Tom and Jerry DVD with an insensitive cover (removed). The policy requires patrons to be Fitchburg residents, complete a detailed form (one at a time), and the challenged material remains on the shelf during review. Staff, then director, then board serve as successive decision-makers. Approved unanimously. - Photocopy and Copyright Policy: No changes were made. The policy restates copyright law and library notices. A brief discussion confirmed that AI-generated content is protected by copyright and covered by existing policy. Approved unanimously. - Library Director's Report: Director Wendy presented June statistics: youth programs and attendance were over 2,000 (highest month); hold information remains unavailable from the new ILS; outreach numbers dropped after July 4th due to heat. No facilities issues. A new Library Assistant 1 starts August 3; one shelver resigned and will be replaced. Strategic planning update: Bachman Design Group displayed graphics at Books and Brews; design process expected to speed up. Books and Brews event had about 100 attendees, successful silent auction; Friends plan to move it to October for Banned Books Week and make it annual. Touch a Truck is July 28; despite road closure on Research Road, attendance has not been affected and plans are being made to use city campus parking lots. - City Council Liaison Report: Councilmember Dang reported that the next council meeting will discuss amendments to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP); two new library-related projects are in the CIP for a total of four. He also attended Books and Brews and enjoyed it. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of previous meeting (voice vote, all ayes). - Approved April Financial Report (voice vote, all ayes). - Approved Collection Management Policy with AI section (voice vote, all ayes). - Approved Reconsideration Form Policy (voice vote, all ayes). - Approved Photocopy and Copyright Policy (voice vote, all ayes). - Next regular meeting scheduled for Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 5:30 PM.

This meeting served as a general introduction to the first concept designs for a playground renovation project. City staff and design consultants presented concept options and collected initial public feedback. The project has been in development for several years, with the design phase beginning about a year ago. Public comments will be accepted online until August 5th, with the Parks Commission reviewing comments and the design on August 6th. Public Comments & Testimony - Eric Schreiner, City of Fitchburg Parks Forestry Manager, welcomed attendees and introduced the concept design team. He noted the project has been in development for several years and described the evening as a general introduction to the first version of the concepts. - Eric confirmed that public comments will be accepted online until August 5th, with the Parks Commission reviewing them alongside the design on August 6th. He stressed that August 6th will not be the final approval and that discussions will continue over the next several months. - Blake and Katie, design experts at Parkitecture, presented the concepts, starting with a recap of community input from the prior year, including from an event the city attended. - Community input highlighted that the number one requested theme was

The Resource Conservation Commission (RCC) met on July 13, 2026, to discuss and plan several key initiatives, including the 2027 solid waste collection rate, an update to the Dane County Water Quality Plan, a community plastic recycling event, a sustainability tour, and other outreach efforts. The meeting lasted from its call to order until 8:39 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The draft minutes from the June 8, 2026, RCC meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote. (Motion by Kim, seconded by Ron; no discussion or dissent.) Public Comments & Testimony - No public appearances on non‑agenda items were made; no slips were submitted. Discussion Items - 2027 Solid Waste Collection Rate (Ben, staff) - Ben presented the annual rate analysis for residential solid waste (refuse and recycling) collection under the city’s contract with Pelotari. The projected contractual costs for 2027 total approximately $1.6 million, based on an estimated 6,650–6,750 residential units (single‑family and up to four‑plex units). - The recommended rate is $240 per household per year, a 1.7% increase from the current $236 rate. This is lower than the contractual cost increase (4.13%), with the difference intended to draw down the fund balance (currently about 30% of budget) toward the target range of 20–25%. - Alternative rates of $238 and $242 were also presented as viable options. The $240 recommendation would require approximately $30,000 from the fund balance. - Discussion included the rationale for recycling being cheaper than refuse (due to material value), the impact of interest income and fuel surcharges, and the timing of the next five‑year contract (RFP in early 2029). - A formal resolution to set the rate will be presented at the next month’s RCC meeting. - Dane County Water Quality Plan Update (Ben) - Ben introduced the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission’s efforts to refresh the Dane County Water Quality Plan (last updated in 2004). The plan is a policy framework (not regulatory) covering surface waters, groundwater, pollution sources (point and non‑point), land use, and environmental corridors. It also includes specific goals for each community, such as Fitchburg. - Discussion clarified the relationship between the plan and other initiatives (Yahara WINS, Renew the Blue, Clean Lakes Alliance). Yahara WINS is a separate program to meet regulatory TMDL requirements through agricultural best management practices, while the Water Quality Plan guides development approvals (e.g., sanitary sewer extensions via CARPC). - The refresh will incorporate new data from those initiatives and is expected to extend into 2027. Ben attended a kickoff meeting the following day and will bring future updates to the RCC. - Plastic Recycling Event Planning - The event is scheduled for July 23, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM at the Fitchburg Public Library. Presenters Kim and Ben will give a 30–45 minute PowerPoint presentation on plastic impacts, microplastics, and recycling best practices, followed by Q&A. Visual displays and giveaways (reusable bags) are planned. - Outreach includes 250 postcards mailed to neighborhoods near the library and a digital flyer. The commission discussed additional social media promotion, inviting local media (e.g., Fitchburg Star, City Channel), and possibly offering food (vegan options) from a local business. - The event is part of Plastic-Free July and aims to close a knowledge gap about the city’s existing plastic recycling options. - Sustainability Tour Planning - The commission is planning a tour for September 2026 (likely September 12 or September 27) focusing on sustainability features in the Terra Vesa neighborhood (stormwater management, native landscaping, net‑zero features) and possibly extending to the Promega campus (solar parking structure, green infrastructure). - A draft agenda and timeline will be prepared before the next meeting. The tour would be a bicycle‑and‑walk event lasting 90 minutes to 2 hours. - Fitchburg Star Articles - The schedule for monthly articles was confirmed: August (Andy), September (Ben), October (Diana – “getting your home ready for winter”), November (Ron – topic TBD). The commission also discussed the possibility of translating articles into Spanish for the existing Spanish section of the Fitchburg Star; Diana will inquire. - Green Thursday Event Planning - Upcoming films: September (“Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food”) and November (“The Shopping Conspiracy”). The June film (WALL‑E) had the highest attendance (43 people) but experienced staffing issues. The commission noted the popularity of family‑friendly events and considered adding hands‑on activities (e.g., building birdhouses or mini rain gardens) for future events. - Council Update (Bill) - Highlights included: groundbreaking for senior housing on Nesbitt Road; first concert at McKee Park; Police Services Facility on track for February 2027; street resurfacing and sidewalk maintenance underway; election season (August primary); and the selection of a vendor for the comprehensive plan and zoning ordinance update (18 months each, sequential). - Staff and Commissioner Updates - Stormwater (Ben): Outfall inspections for Zone 2 found no illicit discharges; 2026 citywide storm basin and channel inspections ongoing; McKee Farms Park headwall replacement project to be bid soon (winter construction); pond dredging project for Business Park A and B ponds (over 1,000 cubic yards sediment, $300,000, from stormwater utility capital budget). - Solid Waste (Ben): The food scrap drop‑off program has collected over 12,000 pounds as of June 29, with 338 registered participants. The commission discussed possibly adding a second drop‑off location in partnership with Madison/other entities. - Sustainability (Phil): Staff met with Focus on Energy regarding planned Civic Campus renovations; $150,000 check received from Dane County for the bike playground at Ostahochi; solar inverter repairs needed (funding source TBD); applications submitted for Dane County Climate Champion awards; Level 3 EV charging partnership with MGE moving forward (installation expected this summer). The commission also debated how to classify land under solar arrays (e.g., agricultural, prairie, or grassland) in terms of land‑use tracking and water quality modeling. Key Outcomes - Formal rate vote deferred: The commission will vote on the proposed 2027 solid waste rate of $240 (or alternative) after a resolution is presented next month. - Plastic recycling event to proceed as planned on July 23; commissioners will assist with promotion and outreach. - Sustainability tour draft plan to be developed by Ben and Ryan for review at the next meeting, with a target date in September. - Articles schedule finalized through November; Diana will explore Spanish translation. - Future family‑friendly event ideas (e.g., mini rain garden workshops, pollinator plant giveaways) noted for potential spring 2027 implementation. - Ongoing projects (headwall replacement, pond dredging, EV chargers) are moving forward; staff will report back on inverter repairs and data map restoration.

The Fitchburg Parks Commission met on July 9, 2026, from approximately 6:03 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Chair Christopher Steinon called the meeting to order. Commissioners present were Aaron Farrell Adamani, Christopher Piguero, Sue Easterday, Todd Brunner, and Joel Maldonado; Heidi Reynolds joined later after resolving IT issues. The commission approved June minutes and the agenda, discussed Highfield Reserve park concepts, approved Resolution R-8926 on the Hostahochi Park rental policy, and reviewed the 2027 park fee schedule. Consent Calendar - The commission approved the June minutes unanimously. - The commission approved the meeting agenda as written unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Several Highfield Reserve residents spoke in support of the proposed park concepts. Megan Tabit, a resident facing Tipperary Park, expressed strong support for native prairie instead of additional lawn, citing benefits for fireflies, butterflies, and monarch caterpillars. - Christine Fry, also facing Tipperary Park, strongly supported the ADA-compliant walkway from Notre Dame Drive to the multi-use path and the native planting plan. She objected to the prairie being called “whimsical.” - Brian Fry supported the plan because visitors parking on Notre Dame need an accessible route to homes on Wexford Way; he also said native species should require less care and supported restoring prairie for future generations. - An additional resident said the proposed cut-through path is the only ADA connection from the street to Wexford Way homes and called the park plan a selling point for the neighborhood. - During the fee schedule discussion, resident Patrick Cheney asked for clearer fee schedule labels, suggested reducing tennis court fees to match pickleball rates, and proposed a lower $5 honor-system fee for court lights instead of $20. Discussion Items Highfield Reserve Park Concepts - Dan Dave and Matt Saltzbury, representatives of Veridian Homes, presented concept plans for two centrally located parks in the Highfield Reserve neighborhood, southwest of McGaw Park. The development is in approximately phase five or six. The developer proposed building Tipperary Park and Faye Park and using park development fees as an offset, the same approach used for Castlewall Park and Crescent Crossing Park. - Tipperary Park would have a central prairie planting with mowed paths, lawn areas at each end for unprogrammed play, a concrete ADA-accessible cut-through under 5 percent grade, bench pads, and about a dozen fire-resistant shade trees. Faye Park, a triangular parcel, would include native plantings, mowed paths, a cut-through path toward Cobbler Road, bench pads, shade trees, and a sloped lawn area. - Commissioners asked about the angled sidewalk, ADA grade, bench orientation, shade, and edible landscapes. The design team said the angle was needed for ADA grade, benches would be backless for two-sided use, and apple trees require heavy maintenance, so an edible landscape was not proposed at this stage. - Commissioner Sue Easterday raised maintenance concerns about small prairies, mowed paths, plowing paved paths, herbicide use, and mower-spread weed seed, and recommended all-turf parks. Staff and other commissioners supported trying professionally maintained native plantings in smaller parks as consistent with Parks and Open Space Plan goals; the developer said an ecological restoration contractor would handle a two-to-three-year establishment period and six inches of topsoil would be restored. - A motion to approve the concepts as presented was made, seconded, and passed without audible opposition. Next steps include an amendment to the SIA, formal construction plans, and bidding documents. Resolution R-8926 – Hostahochi Park Rental Policy - Staff explained that the rental policy had been deferred for legal and administrative review and that the revised draft incorporated the language Commissioner Christopher Piguero requested at a previous meeting while retaining the intent of the original staff proposal. Approval would refer the policy to the Common Council. - Heidi Reynolds noted a typo in the first whereas clause and asked whether the rental rules would differ from other city facilities. Staff said the community center, senior center, and library policies were used as templates, but Hostahochi’s kitchen, learning rooms, and technology make a more detailed policy necessary. - Discussion addressed the city’s right to cancel reservations. Commissioner Piguero gave an example from Madison Parks where a reservation was declined after staff learned more about the group. Sue Easterday and Heidi Reynolds asked for uniform application of the added language across all city facilities; Heidi suggested tabling the item until a uniform policy could be prepared. - Sue Easterday said she would vote no because she wanted the original staff-drafted policy and the new red-line language considered separately. The motion to approve R-8926 carried on a voice vote with audible opposition. 2027 Park Fee Schedule - This was a discussion item without a formal vote. Parks staff reviewed fee schedule changes that will go to council as part of the budget process. Proposed 2027 changes included $100 increases for cemetery plots, ball diamond preparation fee increases to reflect staff time and materials, inclusion of the pickleball tournament fee from the 2026 resolution, and a correction keeping the non-resident ultimate frisbee/lacrosse/cricket fee at $25 rather than $30. - Commissioner Chris requested adding the previously approved 50 percent nonprofit fee reduction for former Healthy Neighborhood Initiative grantees to the 2027 schedule; staff agreed to include it. - Commissioner Chris also compared Hostahochi rates with Madison level-six shelter rates, citing $235 half-day and $335 full-day Monday–Thursday and $445 half-day and $630 full-day Friday–Sunday, and recommended Hostahochi rates be equal to or lower than Madison’s. The commission generally supported aligning Hostahochi with that level. - The commission reached consensus to reduce tennis court reservation fees from $15 resident/$30 non-resident to $10 resident/$15 non-resident to match pickleball, after staff noted the pickleball rates had already been reduced to that level for 2026. Staff said the recommendations would be compiled for council consideration. Staff Reports, Announcements, and Upcoming Dates - Eric, presenting staff reports, reported extensive cleanup from June storm damage involving parks, forestry, streets, and DPW staff; tree risk assessments were ongoing. The city reported zero fireworks-caused damage or vandalism in parks. - Three new benches were installed at Southdale Park at locations that will not be affected by future development. The Urban Forestry Management Plan completed the final Wisconsin DNR grant payment process, and the city forester earned Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ). - A Milwaukee Brewers-themed mural, coordinated with the Chamber of Commerce, will be painted on site at McKee Farms Park near the tennis courts; no formal commission action was needed. The city also started monthly Park Spotlight news releases and continues rapid graffiti cleanup at Hostahochi. - The Popsicles in the Park event at Jamestown Hico Park was rescheduled from July 9 to July 25 due to the storm and was successful, with many organizations participating. - Upcoming dates: Kids Crossing public involvement meeting July 13 at 6 p.m.; Chicory Meadows Athletic Courts ribbon cutting July 21 at 4 p.m.; next Parks Commission meeting August 6. Key Outcomes - June minutes and agenda approved unanimously. - Tipperary Park and Faye Park concepts approved; developer will proceed to SIA amendment and construction documents. - Resolution R-8926 approved and referred to Common Council, despite audible no votes. - Fee schedule recommendations to be forwarded to council: cemetery increases, ball diamond prep increases, pickleball tournament fee, ultimate frisbee correction, Hostahochi rates aligned with Madison level six, tennis fees reduced to $10/$15, and nonprofit reduction for former Healthy Neighborhood Initiative grantees. - Next actions and dates: Kids Crossing public input meeting July 13; Chicory Meadows ribbon cutting July 21; next meeting August 6.

Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved by a voice vote (motion, second, all in favor) without amendments. Discussion Items - Department Restructure: Adam, a city representative (deputy city minister), presented on the background of the restructure. The Baker Tilly staffing study (completed in 2022/2023 and adopted by the council) recommended creating a Leisure and Community Services department. When parks director Scott Endel retired roughly 13–14 months before this meeting, the city shifted recreation functions to the senior center director (Jill) and moved parks under public works. Healthy neighborhoods was also moved under Jill. Adam noted that the city cannot create new positions due to budget constraints, so this restructure was done without additional staffing, relying on reallocating duties. Commissioners expressed concern that the department is being tasked with serving both youth and seniors without adequate resources, potentially setting it up for failure. Jill said she is evaluating programs for efficiency, considering a bi-monthly newsletter (to free up newsletter production time), reducing weekend party rentals (which have declined due to fee increases), and discontinuing low-value programs. Adam emphasized the city-wide effort to identify tasks that can be dropped to make room for new priorities. - YMCA Development: A commissioner raised the potential impact of the new Madison YMCA (expected to open in 2028, with construction beginning fall 2026). The YMCA will have two pools, two full gymnasiums, an indoor walking track, six pickleball courts, and child care. Jill noted that the YMCA will serve Madison, Verona, and broader areas, so it may draw seniors through Silver Sneakers memberships. She emphasized the need to partner with the YMCA rather than compete, and to understand their programming before finalizing the commission's mission and facility plans. The commission agreed to invite the YMCA to a future meeting and to visit the Beaver Dam “Watermark” model that combines rec and senior programming. - Facility Remodeling: Jill outlined the proposed remodeling of the senior center and rec area after police vacate the building. Plans include reconfiguring offices, creating a locked staff area, improving the kitchen and storage, and turning the rec kitchen into office space. A commissioner questioned whether the YMCA partnership might alter these plans, and the commission agreed that meeting with the YMCA should precede mission development. - Meals and Housing Support: Jill reported that the senior center is averaging over 300 visitors per day (up from a typical 250). The Friends group provided three scholarships for senior fitness, assisted two people with housing, and purchased a bed for a client who had been sharing a bed with a granddaughter. Meals on Wheels numbers are down due to a Dane County policy no longer paying for meals for people on Family Care (Medicaid managed care); those clients now receive boxed meals that require preparation. Commissioners lamented the loss of regular wellness checks. Key Outcomes - No votes on restructure: The commission took no formal action; they will continue the discussion at the August 13 meeting. - Future Planning: The commission will begin drafting a mission and vision statement after meeting with the YMCA and learning from the Beaver Dam model. This is intended to align the new integrated department (senior center, rec, healthy neighborhoods) under a shared identity. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned following a motion and second.

The Transportation and Transit Committee (TTC) of Fitchburg met on July 9, 2026, at 6:31 PM. The meeting included a presentation on pedestrian and bicycle safety along East Cheryl Parkway, a staff report on multiple transportation projects, and discussions on a draft Safety Action Plan RFP, a traffic safety intervention at Greenway Cross and Coho Street, and the 2027–2036 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The committee approved the draft minutes from the July 11, 2026 meeting and adjourned at 8:34 PM. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the draft minutes of the July 11, 2026 TTC meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present for non-agenda items. Discussion Items - Agora Block / East Cheryl Parkway Transportation Audit: Mark Wilkerson, president of Bike Fitchburg, presented an AARP audit of the area near the Agora Pavilion and East Cheryl Parkway. He noted that during events such as the farmers market, pedestrians and bicyclists face difficulty crossing the street due to lack of marked crosswalks and curb cuts, limited driver visibility from on-street parking, and a 30 mph speed limit that he believes is too high for congested periods. He proposed solutions including curb cuts with marked crosswalks, temporary speed reductions to 15 mph during events, signalized crossings, pedestrian islands, and bump-outs. Staff Ross expressed support for low-cost options like flexible delineators for bump-outs. Committee member Rick suggested relocating the farmers market to a less busy area owned by Promega. Steve and Logan discussed the need for a mid-block crosswalk and bump-outs, noting that existing mid-block crossings elsewhere in the city are effective. The committee generally agreed that the area poses safety concerns and directed that the suggestions be incorporated into the city’s safety action plan and CIP. - Staff Report: Ross, the city’s transportation engineer, provided updates including: Metro Transit’s new report card and service request framework (public comment period open through July 29); 2026 street resurfacing progress; bus rapid transit coordination; a speed study on Research Park Place where the limit was reduced from 30 to 20 mph (85th percentile speed dropped only 1 mph); installation of passive bike/pedestrian detection at a signalized intersection; and curb painting to daylight crosswalks and bus stops. He noted that the temporary bus stop on Lacey Street is expected to remain for another 18 months. - Draft Safety Action Plan RFP: Ross presented the draft request for proposals for a comprehensive safety action plan funded by a $300,000 Safe Streets for All grant. Committee members Rick, Steve, and Logan offered feedback, including: adding demographic data and off-street paths to the scope, clarifying the “traffic management process,” requiring consultants to show past project results, and adjusting selection criteria to value cost effectiveness and local ties if applicable. Ross agreed to incorporate most suggestions. - Greenway Cross and Coho Street Safety Update: Ross reported on a “roundabout in a box” installed in February 2025 to address speeding and stop sign violations. Speed data showed a 3–5 mph reduction on one approach, but crashes remained similar (one per year). Large vehicles (e.g., buses) cannot use the center island, and small cars cut across. The committee discussed long-term solutions such as mountable concrete splitter islands (estimated $50,000–$100,000) when the road is resurfaced, and praised the iterative approach using temporary materials. The intersection is expected to be included in the comprehensive safety action plan. - 2027–2036 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP): Ross reviewed revisions and new projects. Key items: the Seminole Path extension to the city limits (dependent on Madison’s plans); Golden Gate Pass road connection; traffic signals at McKee/Osmondson and Lacey/Osmondson (the latter may be deferred beyond 2037); and a delay in the Syene Road project to align with Madison’s planned Perry Street overpass (anticipated 2031). Committee members discussed the need for the McKee/Osmondson signal given new development at Jamestown Quarry. The CIP amendments have been submitted and will be voted on at the July 28 council meeting. - Reports from Other Bodies: Alder Gabriella reported on Plan Commission actions including the Syncopation development (30 owner-occupied homes, 40 rental townhomes, 312 mixed-use rentals, and a continuum-of-care facility, all served by a new underpass), a new Los Pres supermarket on Anton Drive, a UPS relocation on Fish Hatchery Road, and the new YMCA building on Spoken Spoke Drive. Alder Steve (or another) summarized council actions including a future land use change at Fahey Glen/Lacey Road, approval of the street resurfacing bid, and a contract for comprehensive plan and zoning code updates with Hasila Levine. Key Outcomes - Agora/Cheryl Parkway safety improvements: The committee agreed that the area has safety problems and directed staff to include Mark Wilkerson’s suggestions in the safety action plan and CIP. Staff will also consider low-cost bump-outs and crosswalks. - Safety Action Plan RFP: The committee provided feedback that will be incorporated into the final RFP, which will be issued by the end of July. - Greenway Cross roundabout: The committee endorsed the iterative approach and supported planning for permanent splitter islands during future resurfacing. Staff will evaluate the intersection for inclusion in the safety action plan. - CIP: No votes were taken, but the committee discussed revisions and amendments. The final CIP will be considered by council on July 28, 2026. - Next meeting: Scheduled for August 13, 2026 at 6:30 PM, but may be canceled; check the agenda.

The Healthy Neighborhood Advisory Committee met Wednesday, July 8, 2026. The meeting opened at 5:48 p.m., but after a paused start, Chair Ari Lowe formally called the meeting to order at 6:21 p.m.; it adjourned at 7:24 p.m. The committee reviewed 2025 grantee updates, discussed strengths and weaknesses of current grant program materials, considered the 2027 grant redesign timeline, and received summer event announcements. No public appearances were made. Consent Calendar - Agenda item 2A: Minutes from the May 13, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously by voice vote. The minutes item was handled after the formal call to order at 6:21 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - None. No members of the public attended in chambers or online for non-agenda items. Discussion Items - 2025 Grantee Updates (continued): Staff presented slides from grantees who had not reported earlier. Root to Rise was the only 2025 grantee that did not submit an update. - Catholic Multicultural Center, now Catholic Charities, reported serving approximately 56 people from the North Fish neighborhood, 80 from Bellmar/Allied, and 18 from Road. A member noted Southdale seemed missing and staff said they would follow up. The organization reported family-focused programming, parent groups, and STEM at school, reached over 600 students and 150 adults, and partnered with the zoo, humane society, and La Sierra Heritage Center. - UNIDOS reported that 2025 was a record year for its bilingual helpline, with approximately 1,700 calls for support, safety planning, and services, and it provided emergency financial assistance to approximately 145 families, helping prevent eviction, homelessness, and utility shut-offs. Members asked for Fitchburg-specific service data. - Big Brothers Big Sisters reported strengthening connections between 35 littles and their bigs in priority neighborhoods, creating new community-based matches, matching at least 10 new youth, supporting 25 existing youth, and maintaining or improving scores on educational success, reduced risky behaviors, and social-emotional competency. Emmanuel Munoz, a former mentor, asked what support mentors receive; Ari Lowe said she did not see a mentor out-of-pocket reimbursement line item in the budget and suggested the question be sent to the organization. - Heartroom reported helping a Southdale family—a 49-year-old mother and her 9-year-old daughter—remain in their housing for a year. Members praised the deep, transformative impact and asked how Heartroom transitions families after support ends. - Grant Program Materials Discussion (5B): The committee discussed what to keep or change in the application, award, and evaluation materials. Members raised concerns about organizations with professional grant writers and multiple funding sources, the need to show direct benefit to Fitchburg residents, and whether large organizations with substantial budgets should receive city funds. Emmanuel Munoz proposed a single-source scoring document combining quantitative metrics, such as grant request as a share of an organization's budget, past city support, and percentage of services to Fitchburg residents, with qualitative knowledge about each organization. - Grant Redesign Timeline (5C): Staff said the redesign would run through the end of 2026, with outreach to residents, departments, schools, and other funders; draft materials in early 2027; approval by mid-2027; and a new program ready for 2028. Staff and Alder Joe Maldonado outlined two possible 2027 options: pause all grant funding while redesigning, or fund food-pantry organizations for one year without reapplication, with funds restricted to food purchases, while the redesign proceeds. Alder Joe Maldonado said the mayor had been supportive of the pause but council approval is still needed. Most committee commenters supported the food-pantry pause and continuity. The committee also discussed a possible neighborhood-specific RFP approach, multi-year contracts, using city-owned facilities, and stronger partnerships with Dane County, JFF workers, Madison's Neighborhood Resource Teams, and neighboring communities. Caitlin Eunice suggested an FAQ explaining the pause and redesign; members supported that idea. No formal vote was taken because the item was not on the agenda for public notice; staff said they would schedule a Zoom meeting for a vote. Announcements & Summer Events - Members said Parks Alive events, the Leopold bike pump track, and a repair cafe in the Arbor neighborhood were well attended. A Popsicles in the Park event on a rain date was successful, and extra popsicles may support an additional event. - Upcoming events: Allied Park community dinner July 10, 5:30–7:30 p.m.; Allied Park basketball tournament July 26, 12–3 p.m.; Leopold Parks Alive next Tuesday, 5–7 p.m.; Rooted community meal at Hosta Hill next Thursday, July 16, 5–7 p.m.; Redeemer City Church festival at New Fountains apartments July 18; Southdale Badger Rock community meal July 10, tentatively 5:30–7 p.m., and movie in the park July 27, 5:30–7 p.m. - A District 1 listening session is scheduled for Thursday, September 24, 5–8 p.m. at Blue Plate Catering. Key Outcomes - Minutes from May 13, 2026, were approved unanimously. - No formal vote was taken on the grant redesign; a future Zoom meeting will be scheduled so the committee can vote on the initial redesign structure before it goes to the Common Council. - Staff will email follow-up questions to grantees, including Fitchburg-specific UNIDOS data, school breakdowns, Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor support, and Heartroom's transition process. - Staff will draft an FAQ and begin drafting communications to past and future grantees and city departments as redesign outreach continues. - The meeting adjourned at 7:24 p.m.

On June 30, 2026, the City of Fitchburg held a two-hour listening session for District 4 at an unspecified location. Mayor Julia Ratafrata led the meeting, joined by District 4 Alders Micah La Douce and Jake Leper, City Traffic Engineer Ross Keller, and Fire Deputy Chief Chad Grossen. The first hour featured presentations on city updates, district projects, the Fish Hatchery Road reconstruction, and fire department operations. The second hour was open for public questions and comments. Approximately 36,197 residents live in Fitchburg, which has grown from 26,000 in 2015 to over 36,000 in 2025, including a 1,500-person annexation. The city’s equalized value is $6.7 billion, with a $47 million operational budget and a AAA bond rating. The median household income is $94,000, and the average home value is $504,000. Public Comments & Testimony - Richard (former council member): Questioned the legality of using tax incremental district (TID) funds solely for affordable housing, asserting that the state Department of Revenue does not mandate that use. Expressed skepticism about City Hall renovations costing $12 million, arguing the building was supposed to be sold. Opposed the wheel tax being used for non-transportation expenses. - Carol: Criticized the failed 2024 referendum as poorly structured, noting that a public-safety-only referendum would have passed. Stated that public safety is the top priority and that the city has historically understaffed police and fire despite growth. Urged immediate funding for fire staffing rather than waiting for the 2027 budget. - Resident (unidentified): Raised concerns about traffic safety on Schumann Drive (speeding, stop sign violations) and requested short-term traffic calming. Also noted that many drivers on that road are residents. - Resident (unidentified): Asked about the fate of donated bricks at Kids Crossing playground; was told they would be preserved and incorporated into the new design. - Resident (unidentified): Expressed worry about fire staffing reduction from 4 to 3 personnel per engine, citing overlapping calls and risk to firefighters. Called for using the city’s contingency fund to cover overtime for the rest of 2026. - Resident (unidentified): Suggested that Fitchburg adopt a charter-based minimum staffing formula for public safety linked to population growth. - Resident (unidentified): Emphasized that public safety includes affordable housing, reliable transit, and economic stability, not just police and fire. Asked for a 10-year plan for safe communities. - Resident (spouse/mother of firefighters): Challenged the council to trust expert advice from fire chiefs rather than assuming they know better. Warned of potential lawsuits if firefighters are killed due to understaffing. - Resident (unidentified): Proposed canceling a $300,000 tennis court contract (Wildwood/Swan Creek) to redirect funds to public safety. Claimed she found $70,000–$110,000 in property tax savings but was not asked for details. - Resident (unidentified): Questioned the high cost of consultants for housing initiatives and the affordable housing fund. Demanded transparency on total consulting fees. - Resident (unidentified): Suggested the city review all fee structures (permits, inspections) to ensure development costs are not subsidized by taxpayers, following the example of City Milton. - Resident (unidentified): Asked why revenue from new development does not keep pace with service costs; was told levy limits cap net new construction growth. Discussion Items - Mayor’s Citywide Update: The mayor presented demographic and financial data, noting a 2.7% unemployment rate and 2% annual population growth. She outlined her priorities: safe neighborhoods (including Healthy Neighborhoods program), housing investments ($10 million affordable housing fund from a TID closure), transit enhancements (BRT, Line 65/75 expansion), public safety staffing challenges, becoming a sustainable champion city, and maintaining fiscal responsibility. She acknowledged the failed 2024 referendum and described internal reorganizations (closing dispatch, merging departments) to save money. The mayor also introduced a new budget survey for residents. - District 4 Update (Alder Micah La Douce): Highlighted upcoming playground replacements (Greenfield Park, Kids Crossing), tennis court resurfacing at Wildwood, new affordable senior apartments (80 units on Nesbitt Road), the Rowan apartment building, Gigi’s Playhouse opening in August, and the Quarry Ridge mountain bike progressive learning area. Noted that 49% of District 4 is farmland and stressed its importance in the comprehensive plan update. - District 4 Update (Alder Jake Leper): Addressed TDS (utility) restoration issues in Seminole Forest and traffic concerns on Schumann Drive (city survey sent, exploring traffic calming). Mentioned storm sewer improvements on Schumann pending road reconstruction. Discussed resident interest in fundraising for an additional basketball hoop at Seminole Glen. - Fire Department Update (Deputy Chief Chad Grossen): Reported 1,239 calls year-to-date (4.5% increase over 2025), with an average response time under 6 minutes. Staffing: 19 full-time, 21 paid-on-call, 7 support. One full-time member leaving but replacement approved. Explained that not all EMS calls get an engine response; high-priority calls get automatic dispatch. Current staffing model: 9 on shift (4 at each of two stations plus an officer). Cross-staffing means firefighters may switch apparatus. The department recently added three interns. - Traffic Engineer Ross Keller: Presented the Fish Hatchery Road reconstruction project (Tonto Trail to Nesbitt Road roundabout), including a new roundabout at Lacey, multi-use path, buffered bike lanes, anti-flooding infrastructure, and sewer upgrades. Project delayed to spring 2027; utility work and tree clearing starting soon. Discussed Irish Lane road condition (rated 3-4 out of 10, pushed to 2030 due to grant timing). He noted that milling and overlay now would cost more long-term but is being considered. Also mentioned future traffic signals at Osmondson/McKee (2032) and Osmondson/Lacey (2037), dependent on traffic warrants. BRT will end at Triverton Pike and McKee; parking availability is not a major concern. Alternate-side parking may be replaced with a snow emergency system similar to Madison’s. - Budget and Staffing Debate: Alder La Douce introduced the website FitchburgBudget.com, allowing residents to see how their tax dollars are spent per department. Alder Leper emphasized that the 2026 overtime budget was exhausted by May and that the fire chief proposed reducing engine staffing from 4 to 3 to control overtime. The mayor stated that finding money for fire staffing is her top priority for the 2027 budget. Several residents and council members debated whether the city should use contingency funds now rather than waiting. The mayor explained levy limit constraints: state law caps revenue increases to net new construction (projected 2.5% for 2027) while costs (health insurance up 8%, inflation 4.2%) outpace revenue. She noted that 85% of the budget goes to wages and benefits, leaving little flexibility. - Teen Center: The mayor clarified that the teen center project (in the CIP at $3 million capital, plus $1.35 million building purchase) will not proceed until operational funding is secured. Discussions with Verona School District fell through due to declining enrollment. The city may need to return a $1 million county grant. - EMS/Fire Consolidation Study: The mayor reported that a consultant is studying consolidation with six other municipalities (Oregon, Brooklyn, Monona, McFarland, Stoughton, Fitchburg). Results expected by end of 2026. She argued that consolidation could save capital costs long-term, though operating costs may not decrease immediately. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the listening session. - Budget Timeline Announced: July 28, 2026 – Council action on Capital Improvement Plan (CIP); August 26 – Committee of the Whole on 2027 priorities; September 18 – Mayor’s proposed budget released; October 13 – Public hearing; October 14 – Amendments due; November 10 – Council adoption of 2027 budget. - Survey Distribution: Printed budget surveys were circulated; an online version will be available. Results will inform the 2027 budget. - Fire Staffing Reduction: The fire chief’s proposal to reduce engine staffing from 4 to 3 personnel was discussed as a short-term cost-saving measure. The mayor and council expressed commitment to restoring full staffing in the 2027 budget, but no immediate action was taken for 2026. - Irish Lane Paving: The city is seriously considering a temporary mill-and-overlay (band-aid) paving to smooth the road until major reconstruction (pushed to 2030 or possibly 2035). Staff will evaluate costs. - Comprehensive Plan Update: A consultant has been hired using TID closure funds. The plan will take 18 months, followed by a zoning code revision (total 3 years). Community input sessions will be held. - Teen Center Held: The project remains in the CIP but will not move forward without operational funding. The city will engage with potential partners (school district, YMCA) and address the county grant situation. - Fire Department Intern Program: Three new interns were welcomed; the program is 51 years old and has produced many full-time staff.