Public Meetings - Fitchburg, Wisconsin

The CEDA Committee of Fitchburg met on June 25, 2026, to approve minutes, hear a public presentation on housing issues, and consider three resolutions related to economic development and housing affordability. The meeting was chaired by Mark Hamilton and included reports from staff on the Forward Fitchburg update, development projects, and housing initiatives. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes from the May 28, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Nura Said, a regulatory specialist and Fitchburg resident, presented four critical insights from a preliminary audit on rental trends: 1. Urged the city to lead on rental pricing transparency by leveraging tools like the Apartments.com cost calculator, ahead of impending FTC regulations. 2. Highlighted that lease specials create a "rent cliff" after the first year, forcing annual relocation and disrupting families; called for a sustainable approach balancing specials with stability. 3. Recommended scaling the Efficiency Navigator program beyond preservation to expand the supply of NOAAs through new development. 4. Proposed replacing the term "missing middle housing" with "neighborhood housing" and suggesting "squeezed middle" for residents who earn too much for subsidies but struggle with market rates, to center the narrative on people. - Committee members asked clarifying questions; Ms. Said elaborated on her language recommendations. Discussion Items - Resolution 144-26: Budget Amendment for Marketing Insert – Mike Boucher requested a $25,000 budget amendment from undesignated funds for a public information and education marketing piece promoting Fitchburg after the Forward Fitchburg strategic plan update. The piece will be completely revamped from a prior example. Approved and forwarded to Finance Committee. - Resolution: Efficiency Navigator Program Implementation Agreement – Lorene presented the contract with Sustained Dane for the second phase. Claire and John from Sustained Dane provided a presentation via Zoom, showing progress on 14 assessments, 237 residents impacted, and $185,000 in recommended measures for initial six buildings. Weatherization was prioritized. Committee members Dan and Micah raised questions about cost-effectiveness and heat pump versus furnace replacements. Dan expressed concern that $50,000 investment saves only $1,050 annually ($10/month per unit), but acknowledged non-energy benefits like comfort and affordability preservation. Micah asked about timing and requested future cost/efficiency comparisons for heating systems. The resolution passed after discussion. - Resolution 127-26: Land Use Restriction Agreement (LURA) for Affordable Housing – Lorene explained that this agreement ensures properties remain affordable per HUD guidelines for five years, even if sold. Dan helped draft it. Approved and forwarded to Finance Committee. - Hotel Room Tax Report – Joyce reported on placing an advertisement in Business Expansion magazine for July. - Economic Development Director Report – Mike Boucher provided updates: - Forward Fitchburg (City in Motion) update: Three roundtables completed (Centers & Identity, Innovation & Emerging Economies, AI & New Economy); a developer roundtable tentatively scheduled for July 16. A summary of roundtable input will be shared. - Development updates: TID 17 amendment approved for Jamestown quarry retail center (69,500 sq ft with specialty grocer); Chase Bank, Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s progressing; second apartment building (270 units) planned; UPS store demolition starting July 6; Bowman Plaza demolition July; Syncopation clean fill site moving forward; Spring Hill Suites ribbon cutting June 25 evening; Los Perez Hispanic grocery store approved for former Mad Power location; dry bean site reused as grocery and taqueria. - Budget process begins for 2027; draft due July 21. - Highlighted need for more industrial land to retain existing businesses and attract prospects; noted lack of vacant buildings and acreage for business parks. - Housing Update – Lorene reported on CDBG contract finalization, down payment assistance program development, and housing dashboard work by intern Miranda. Jenny noted the Housing Advisory Committee meeting on June 8 covered similar Efficiency Navigator presentation and ABC questions. - Upcoming Events – Ribbon cuttings for GG’s Playhouse (August) and UPS store groundbreaking (July 22); business lunch in planning; regional housing strategies meeting on June 30. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes from May 28, 2026 (unanimous). - Approved Resolution 144-26 (budget amendment for marketing insert) – forwarded to Finance Committee. - Approved the Efficiency Navigator Program implementation agreement with Sustained Dane – forwarded to Finance Committee. - Approved Resolution 127-26 (LURA for affordable housing) – forwarded to Finance Committee. - Next meeting scheduled for July 23, 2026. - Committee encouraged attendance at ribbon cuttings and events.

The Fitchburg Committee of the Whole convened on June 24, 2026 at 6:32 PM and adjourned at 8:20 PM. The meeting featured a presentation on the city's annual Financial Management Plan by Greg from Ellers, followed by an overview of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts and the new Residential Tax Increment District (RTID) provisions. The council also approved the minutes from the May 27, 2026 meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of May 27, 2026 Committee of the Whole minutes: Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public appeared for non-agenda items. Discussion Items - Financial Management Plan (FMP): Greg from Ellers presented the city's multi-year financial forecast covering 2025–2036. Key points included: - The city's unassigned general fund balance was 15.16% of revenues at end of 2025, within the policy range of 15–25%. - All financial policy metrics are in compliance: debt service tax rate for GO debt will remain below $1.00 per $1,000 (policy limit $2.25); gross debt service expense will not exceed 23.56% of combined expenditures; general obligation debt outstanding will not exceed 24.75% of equalized value (well under the 60% limit). The city maintains a triple-A Moody's rating. - The enterprise utilities exceed the 250 days cash-on-hand metric: water at 1,057 days, sewer at 386 days, stormwater at 270 days. - The city's equalized value (TID out) grew at an average of 7.68% per year (discounted five-year history). Growth is attributed to both economic appreciation (assessment increases) and new construction. - The projected levy limit gap for 2027 is approximately $575,000, assuming no additional allowable adjustments beyond debt service. The gap is expected to widen over time as expenditure growth outpaces net new construction. - The city's total tax rate (city portion) is projected to decline from $5.21 per $1,000 in 2026 to below $5.00 by 2027 or 2028, which will end eligibility for the Expenditure Restraint Incentive Program (ERIP). The ERIP payment declined from $650,000 to an expected $250,000 in the coming year. - For a $500,000 home, the city debt service portion of the tax bill was $434 in 2026. - Council members asked clarifying questions about fund balance benchmarks, the composition of value growth, the timing of net new construction recognition, and the impact of losing ERIP funds. The presenter noted that the city would lose ERIP as a capital funding source but could employ other strategies. - Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and New Residential TID Overview: Greg and the city's economic development team provided an overview of TIF basics and recent legislative changes. - TIF is the primary economic development tool in Wisconsin, with about 1,400 active TIDs in the state. Fitchburg has TIDs created before October 1, 2024, which remain under previous, more favorable levy limit rules. - For new TIDs created after October 1, 2024, the annual net new construction adjustment will be based on 90% of new construction (rather than 100%), and the TID closure adjustment on the levy limit will be reduced from 50% of final incremental value to 10% of new construction (or 25% if closed within 75% of expected termination). - The affordable housing extension for TIDs was expanded from one to two years, effective January 1, 2028. At least 75% of funds must benefit affordable housing as defined (cost no more than 30% of household gross income); the remaining 25% can be used for general housing stock improvements. - The new Residential TID (RTID) is limited to owner-occupied single-family homes and duplexes meeting specific requirements: single story max 1,500 sq ft, two-story max 2,000 sq ft, lot width and setback limits, lot size max 7,500 sq ft. No multifamily or commercial allowed. - Eligible project costs include infrastructure but exclude developer land acquisition, on-site grading, home construction costs, and development incentives. No municipal borrowing is allowed; projects must use pay-as-you-go or cash financing. - Council members raised concerns about the financial viability of RTIDs given the small lot sizes and restrictions on financing, and asked whether the city could test the model on a small scale. Questions also arose about the rationale for limiting the RTID to single-family and duplexes, and about the interplay with impact fees. Key Outcomes - The council received the Financial Management Plan and noted the projected 2027 levy limit gap of $575,000. No formal action was taken; the report will inform the upcoming budget process. - The TIF and RTID overview was presented for informational purposes; no resolutions or votes were taken on TID matters. - Announcements: Next Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for July 22, 2026. The Mayor announced a Youth Government Camp for ages 11–14 from August 24–27, 2026, with six spots still available.

The Joint Review Board of the City of Fitchburg met on June 24, 2026 at 3:30 PM to consider amendments to Tax Incremental District (TID) 17, review annual reports for multiple TIDs across three school districts (Verona, Oregon, and Madison), and approve an increased cost for bus rapid transit improvements within a half-mile radius of TID 10. All actions were approved unanimously by the board, which includes representatives from the city, county, and each affected school district. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – Minutes from the November 6, 2025 and May 19, 2026 meetings were approved unanimously. Separate motions were made: first motion by Councilmember Marlowe, second by Laurie; second motion by Adam (county), second by Laurie. Public Comments & Testimony - Mayor Jeremy Frogby took personal privilege to commend the city on the announcement of a YMCA facility coming to Fitchburg, calling it "a big deal." No other public comments were made. Discussion Items TID 17 Amendment (Verona Area School District) - Greg from Ellers Associates presented the amendment to TID 17, a rehabilitation district created in 2023. The amendment adds approximately 45 acres (the former quarry site) to the district and increases eligible project costs by $25.4 million. The additional costs cover infrastructure improvements and development incentives. The city’s 12% test is estimated at 6.29%, well under the statutory limit. The district is projected to recover all costs by 2034 based on existing and anticipated incremental value, including a retail development ($17.2 million) and a multifamily development ($50 million). The amendment includes minor language changes made by the city council to add bicycle sharing stations and bike/pedestrian improvements. The joint board approved the resolution unanimously. Annual Reports for Verona Area School District TIDs (TID 9, 17, 18) - Greg presented annual PA-300 reports and cash flow analyses. - TID 9 (industrial district, created 2015): Incremental value as of January 1, 2025: $122.5 million. Fund balance: $6.78 million. Estimated closure: 2036. Development updates: Sub-Zero completed global headquarters; Newcombe building first of five apartment buildings (59 units). The district is healthy, with pay-as-you-go development incentives protecting the TID from shortfalls. - TID 17: Newer district with modest activity; amendment just approved; future development includes Chase Bank, Chick-fil-A, Kruka Rush, McDonald’s, a 69,500 sq ft retail center, and a second apartment building (270 units). - TID 18 (Commerce & Industrial Park, created 2024): Minimal activity; pending project with General Beverage for warehouse expansion; 50-acre site at Commerce Park and Lacy Road being marketed for industrial/tech use. - The joint board approved a resolution acknowledging compliance with annual reporting requirements for all three districts (roll call vote: all ayes). Annual Reports for Oregon School District TIDs (TID 11, 13, 14) - Greg presented reports for TIDs 11, 13, and 14. - TID 11 (clean fill site, created 2018): Modest financial activity; new proposal from Fairchild Development and Populants for "Syncopation" including two multifamily buildings (315 units), a 119-unit Trilogy Health continuum-of-care facility, 30 single-family lots, 40 townhomes, and 12,000 sq ft commercial space. Construction expected to start October 2026. - TID 13 (mixed-use, created 2018): Incremental value $40.2 million; modest deficit of $18,900. Development updates: Central Park Place (110 units) fully leased; RLO mixed-use (57 units) opened with Rusty B pop-up market; 40-bed rehabilitation hospital under construction; LEDO apartments (114 units, 10% workforce housing pilot). District projected to close by 2034. - TID 14 (mixed-use, created 2022): Incremental value $25.4 million; fund balance $76,200. Developments: Juniper apartments (169 units) opened; Hartongue Fields townhomes (51 units) fully leased; Rowan apartments (210 units) under construction; GG's Playhouse (first Down Syndrome playhouse in U.S.); Uptown Hills (24 townhomes). District supports planned capital investments. - The joint board approved the annual compliance resolution (roll call: all ayes). Annual Reports for Madison Metropolitan School District TIDs (TID 10, 12, 16) - Greg presented reports. - TID 10 (rehabilitation, created 2015): Incremental value $144.4 million; fund balance $517,400; projected closure 2037. Cash flow supports existing obligations and planned capital outlays including $1.5 million for Bryant Road and $4.4 million for bus rapid transit (BRT) costs. Development updates: UPS store to build at 2917 Fish Hatchery Road; Bowman Plaza redevelopment (77 units, 11,000 sq ft commercial); new Genesis dealership; potential Plesco project. - TID 12 (industrial, created 2018): Incremental value $71.2 million; fund balance $3 million. Primary expenditure is Promega Cornberg incentive; district may close a year early. Note: $25 million drop in value due to state personal property tax exemption. - TID 16 (Southville, created 2023): Minimal activity; city seeking industrial flex space developers. - The joint board approved the annual compliance resolution (roll call: all ayes). Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Cost Increase for TID 10 (Madison School District) - Tim Volker, Director of Public Works, explained that the North-South BRT project’s total cost is $170 million (14 miles, 33 stations). Fitchburg’s portion is 1.8 miles with 4.5 stations. Federal funding share dropped from 80% to 70%, and updated construction costs raised Fitchburg’s local share from $1.5 million to $5.7 million. For the half-mile radius of TID 10, the original allocation of $750,000 increased to $2.5 million, requiring joint board approval for an additional $1.758 million. The cash flow analysis for TID 10 confirmed existing incremental value can support the increased expenditure. The joint board approved the resolution unanimously. Key Outcomes - TID 17 Amendment (Verona) – Approved unanimously. - Annual Reports & Compliance Resolutions – Approved unanimously for all three school districts: - Verona Area School District (TIDs 9, 17, 18) - Oregon School District (TIDs 11, 13, 14) - Madison Metropolitan School District (TIDs 10, 12, 16) - BRT Cost Increase (TID 10 half-mile radius) – Approved unanimously, increasing the expenditure from $750,000 to $2.5 million. - Meeting adjourned.

The Common Council met on June 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM (UTC). The meeting covered a wide range of topics including a public hearing on the Capital Improvement Plan, consent agenda approvals, department reports, significant discussion on fire department staffing reductions, a contested liquor license renewal, and multiple development agreements. Key decisions included approval of amended hours for Cornerstone Bar & Grill, approval of TIF assistance for a retail center and a redevelopment project, and adoption of a resolution supporting sustainable transportation funding. Several items were postponed or sent back for verification. Public Hearing - Josh Olson (Strong Towns member) spoke on the proposed 2027–2036 Capital Improvement Plan, noting that nearly one-third of the budget ($51 million) is dedicated to streets. He urged the council to treat streets as liabilities and to ensure surrounding land uses are productive, and suggested Vision Zero should receive more attention. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda, including routine approvals, was adopted unanimously (voice vote). Discussion Items - Deputy City Administrator Adam gave updates: absentee ballots for the August 11 primary began mailing (≈1,200 processed); the library celebrates its 15th anniversary with an event June 29; fireworks are banned in city parks; ribbon cutting for Spring Hill Suites on June 25; Popsicles in the Park rescheduled to June 25 at Hugo Jamestown Park. - Mayor’s announcements: promotion of Captain Logan Brown (former lieutenant); presentation of the proposed CIP to the finance committee; amendments to the CIP due July 6; 2027 budget survey being drafted; groundbreaking for affordable senior housing on Nesby Road; YMCA West coming to Fitchburg (58,000 sq ft, $58 million project, includes medical/dental clinic); ribbon cutting for Blue Plate catering; tennis/pickleball courts at Chickory nearly complete; joint review board meeting scheduled; first listening session for District 4 on June 29; no council meeting July 14; library statistics (5M items checked out, 1.2M visits, 7,700 programs, 277,000 attendees over 15 years); Promega boardwalk opened to public; City Motion economic strategy initiative. - Fire Department Operational Staffing Modifications (moved up on agenda): Fire Chief presented a difficult financial situation. Key points: 2026 overtime budget of $215,000 was already exceeded by $194,000 in 2025; through May 31, 2026, overtime reached $229,000; mandatory overtime increased 200 hours/month in last two months; POX firefighters decreased from 30 (2023) to 21 currently; proposed reduction of staffing from 4 to 3 per engine when the fourth person would create overtime (projected savings $400,000); impacts on mutual aid response and incident capability (25% reduction); contract adherence issues (limiting PTO on earned days off, requiring career staff to work holidays). Council members expressed concern: Alder Gearhart noted the failed referendum and called for data tracking; Mayor committed to adding two firefighter positions in the 2027 budget and exploring long-term consolidation with EMS. The Chief stated changes would take effect July 1 (some July 5) and will provide monthly staffing data. - Liquor License for Cornerstone Bar & Grill (formerly Monkeyshine): Public comment included Regina Ryan (former Dane County Supervisor) who expressed concerns about a manager’s behavior and unequal treatment. Staff recommended removing 3 old conditions but setting closing times. Council debated: Mayor wanted 12 AM or 12:30 AM to avoid becoming a late-night spillover bar. Amendment passed: premises close by 1 AM Friday and Saturday (with state-licensed uniformed security for 4 hours) and 12:30 AM Sunday through Thursday; maintain 30-day video surveillance. License approved as amended. - Development Agreements: - Jamestown Quarry Retail Center (resolution R118-26): TIF assistance up to $2 million for extraordinary costs (soil removal, underground stormwater, retaining wall). Consultant Keith Dahl (Ehlers) justified 11-year payback from 2/3 of new increment. Council approved (roll call 5-0). Conditional on joint review board action. - Ross Family Rentals LLC (resolution R120-26): TIF assistance for demolition costs ($56,450), 6-year payback from 2/3 of increment. Approved (voice vote). - Athletic Court Renovations Bids (Swan Creek tennis/basketball, Wildwood South tennis): Public comment from Patrick Cheney opposed the scope, citing cost savings and omission of McGaw courts. Staff explained preventative maintenance. Concern about a discrepancy in fiberglass square footage (1300 vs 13,200). Council approved the bid subject to staff verification the next day; if an error is found, the contract will not be executed. - Comprehensive Plan & Zoning Code Update (resolution R138-26): Contract with House Seal Levine approved for up to 18 months per phase. Public comment from David Hayde argued procedural violations; staff stated procedures exist. Approved. - Transportation Resolution (R113-26): Supporting sustainable municipal transportation funding from the state. Approved. - Other items: multiple Plan Commission items (rezones, certified survey maps, comp plan amendment for Lacey Road – approved after plan commission unanimous vote with support from owner and neighbors); board of public works items (wastewater report, subdivision improvement acceptance, easements for MG&E, sidewalk bid requiring 2/3 vote – approved); Whalen Road paved shoulders bid (approx. $774,000) approved. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved. - Public hearing closed. - Fire department staffing changes approved (effective July 1/5) with monthly data reporting; mayor commits to adding positions in 2027 budget. - Cornerstone Bar & Grill liquor license approved with amended conditions (1 AM Fri/Sat with security, 12:30 AM other nights, video surveillance). - Development agreements (Jamestown Quarry retail and Ross Family Rentals) approved. - Athletic court renovation bid approved, pending staff verification of fiberglass square footage. - Comprehensive plan & zoning code update contract approved. - Whalen Road paved shoulders bid approved. - Transportation resolution approved. - Easements, subdivision improvements, sidewalk bid all approved. - Joint review board set for June 24. - Council adjourned after alder reports; next meeting July 28, 2026.

The Finance Committee of the City of Fitchburg convened on June 23, 2026, at 5:33 PM and adjourned at 6:06 PM. The meeting covered the finance director's report, a review of bills, and a series of action items including property sales, infrastructure contracts, and planning services. Public Comments & Testimony - Melissa Ross of Ross Family Rentals LLC addressed the committee regarding the remnant parcel sale, stating the land is vital for the complete redevelopment of 2917 Fish Hatchery Road and expressed full support for the transaction. Finance Director Report - Finance Director Misty reported the loss in stormwater fixed assets was primarily driven by the closing of the multi-year Saiyin Road project ($1.7 million). - CIP amendments are due by July 6th via an electronic form. - The Joint Review Board meeting on June 24th will handle the official TID 17 amendment, budget approval for Bus Rapid Transit costs in TID 10, and the TID annual reports. - The go-live date for the UKG payroll software system has been intentionally delayed by one month to ensure system accuracy and that employees are paid correctly and on time. Review of Bills - The committee reviewed checks over $10,000 ($235,039.66), issued checks ($396,947.85), and PCAR transactions ($266,323.76). - Alder Bill inquired about PCAR charges from the psychology center; staff clarified these charges are for pre-employment psychological evaluations and annual wellness checks for police officers. Discussion Items - Sale of Remnant Parcel (R11726): Staff presented the sale of a 0.174-acre city-owned parcel to Ross Family Rentals LLC for $1.00 to facilitate a new commercial building anchoring the corner at O'Shallow Drive and Fish Hatchery Road. Staff stated the parcel has no other viable use for the city. - Athletic Court Renovations (R12626): Staff presented the bid acceptance for resurfacing the Swan Creek and Wildwood South courts, including a full fiberglass covering. Staff noted the recommendation comes from a state-renowned court designer and is intended to prevent cracking in the asphalt, which is particularly beneficial for pickleball, and is expected to extend the resurfacing cycle beyond 10-12 years. - Subdivision Improvements (R13226): Staff presented the second amendment for the Sub Zero Group agreement to resurface an additional portion of Basswood Drive to avoid unnecessary pavement joints, with the city reimbursing actual costs. - Sidewalk Contract (R13626): Staff presented the acceptance of Duluth Concrete LLC's low bid for the 2026 sidewalk project, funded by higher-than-projected special assessment revenue requiring a two-thirds budget amendment. - Comp Plan & Zoning Code Update (R13826): Staff presented the contract with Houseal & Levine to update the comprehensive plan, zoning ordinance, and subdivision ordinance. The goal is to consolidate two existing zoning codes into a single, simpler form-based code. - Southeast Development Facilitation (R13926): Staff presented a shared-cost agreement with the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission (CARPC) to facilitate intergovernmental discussions with the Village of Oregon regarding Southeast Fitchburg. - Whalen Road Paved Shoulders (R14226): Staff presented the acceptance of Payne and Dolan Inc.'s bid for the long-planned 1.2-mile paved shoulders project, ideally aiming for completion before the Wisconsin Iron Man race. Key Outcomes - Approved Unanimously: R11726 (Parcel Sale to Ross Family Rentals), R12626 (Athletic Court Renovations), R13226 (Sub Zero Subdivision Agreement), R13626 (Sidewalk Contract with Duluth Concrete), R13826 (Comp Plan/Zoning Contract with Houseal & Levine), R13926 (CARPC Facilitation Contract), R14226 (Whalen Road Paved Shoulders Contract with Payne and Dolan). - Referred to Council (Without Recommendation): R11826 and R12026 (related to the Ellers project) were referred to the full City Council for action later that evening. - Next Meeting: July 28, 2026. The regular July 14 meeting is canceled.

The Fitchburg Licensing Committee met on June 23, 2026, to review and vote on several sound permits, alcohol license applications, and administrative matters. All three committee members were present: Chair Alder Reichstad, Vice Chair Alder Herbst, and Alder Lepper. The meeting adjourned at 6:10 p.m. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes of the June 9, 2026, meeting and the routine operator license report. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public appeared for non-agenda items. Sound Permit Applications The committee reviewed nine sound permit applications, each for amplified sound at parks or other locations in Fitchburg. All were approved unanimously by voice vote. - 5A: Lisa’s Birthday Party – Originally scheduled for June 26 at McKee Farms Park, applicant Lisa Schuble requested a date change to Friday, July 31, 2026, from 5–9 p.m. Vice Chair Herbst moved to amend; the committee approved the amended permit. Lisa, a nearby resident, stated her own past complaints about late noise and pledged to respect the 9 p.m. end time. - 5B: ACF Picnic – African Christian Fellowship picnic at McKee Farms Park on Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. No applicant appeared; approved. - 5C: Come Together Neighborhood Event – Hosted by Redeemer City Church at Newfoundland's Apartment on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 4–7 p.m. with amplified live music. Nathan (church representative) described the event as community outreach with games and food; estimated 400 attendees. Approved. - 5D: Woolford Family Reunion – At Swan Creek Park on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from noon–8:30 p.m. with Bluetooth speakers; estimated 60 attendees. No applicant present; approved. - 5E: Cambodian Buddhist Society Community Anniversary – At the Cambodian Buddhist Temple, July 31–August 2, 2026. Live music Saturday noon–8 p.m. and Sunday noon–6 p.m.; Friday is a quiet prayer ceremony. Estimated attendance 1,000 but historically 650–700. The representative noted safety improvements after a past accident. Police and fire departments had no concerns. Approved. - 5F: Zimmerman Engagement Party – Date and location not fully specified in the transcript; estimated 40 attendees with a basic speaker. Approved. - 5G: XES Company Picnic – At McKee Farms Park on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 8 a.m.–9:30 p.m. with amplified live music (guitars, drums, keyboards). Staggered attendance of 500 employees and family members. Approved. - 5H: Jess Lex Homes Ice Cream Social – At McKee Farms Park on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 5:30–8 p.m. with live music; estimated 99 attendees. Approved. - 5I: Movie in the Park – Hosted by the Fitchburg Recreation Department at Southdale Park on Monday, July 27, 2026, from 5–9:30 p.m. with amplified sound. No specific movie announced. Approved. Alcohol License and Special Event Approvals - 6A: Books and Brews (Friends of the Fitchburg Library) – Temporary Class B picnic license for beer and wine, and temporary operator licenses for Danielle Williams Rivera and Katie Carlson. The event is a 21+ ticketed fundraiser for the children’s library renovation, featuring trivia and local breweries. Danielle appeared to present. Approved unanimously. - 7A: Agora Art Fair Special Event Permit – Hosted by Promega and Fitchburg Chamber on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. at Agora Center Pavilion. Includes 100 local artists, live music on two stages, craft beer garden, kids’ activities, and a cultural celebration. Safety measures include police traffic direction and snowplow barriers. Steven (Chamber) appeared and described the event. Approved. - 7B: Temporary Alcohol Licenses for Agora Art Fair – Temporary Class B and Class B picnic licenses for beer and wine, and temporary operator licenses, for the same event with Hop Garden as purveyor. Approved. Deferral of Liquor License - Item 8 – The committee voted to defer the renewal application for a Class B fermented malt beverage and intoxicating liquor license for Monkeyshine Inc. (doing business as Cornerstone Bar and Grill) to a future city council meeting. Motion by Vice Chair Herbst; unanimous. Administrative Discussion - Item 9: Sound Permits on Consent Agenda – Chair Reichstad led a discussion on moving new sound permit applications to the consent agenda to reduce the burden on applicants. Staff (Tracy and Adam) confirmed no ordinance changes are needed; the committee can still pull items for individual review. The committee directed staff to place sound permit applications on the consent agenda for future meetings. Key Outcomes - Nine sound permits approved (items 5A–5I), one with an amended date (5A). - Temporary alcohol licenses approved for Books and Brews and Agora Art Fair. - Special event permit for Agora Art Fair approved. - Liquor license renewal for Cornerstone Bar and Grill deferred to council. - Staff directed to add sound permit applications to the consent agenda. - All votes were unanimous (voice votes recorded as “aye”). - The next meeting is scheduled for July 28, 2026; the first July meeting is traditionally canceled. Vice Chair Herbst will not be available for the July 28 meeting. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 6:10 p.m.

The Fitchburg Finance Committee met in special session on June 22, 2026, beginning at 5:35 p.m. and adjourning at 7:51 p.m., to review the mayor’s proposed 2027–2036 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Department heads presented changes from the previously adopted CIP, answered alder questions, and the committee unanimously adopted Resolution R13726. No members of the public appeared for non-agenda items. Public Comments & Testimony - No public appearances were made in chambers or online for non-agenda items, and no public testimony was listed for this special meeting. CIP Overview and Key Financial Context - The mayor explained that the CIP is a 10-year plan for capital purchases and infrastructure investment, with the first five years containing vetted projects and years six through ten serving as placeholders. The plan does not authorize spending and is shared with Moody’s, financial institutions, and residents. - The mayor said the plan focuses on maintaining and replacing existing equipment and improvements, with few new projects. The CIP assumes net new construction of about 2.5%, while June inflation was stated to be almost 4.2%, creating a projected financial gap. - Finance Director Misty Dodge noted the CIP document is 301 pages, includes change reports by expenditure, property-tax funding, and borrowing, and recommended using the PDF bookmarks to navigate it. - Replacement-fund inflation assumptions were lowered from 3% to 2% across many funds. Dodge described this as a calculated risk, with higher interest earnings on replacement reserves potentially helping to offset the difference. Department Presentation Highlights - Community Services: vehicle replacements are meeting current needs; the commercial kitchen project was folded into the City Hall remodel; a hot/cold food well placeholder was pushed out. - Library: new projects include a $70,000 first-floor refresh and a basement refit, both funded from library capital savings; outreach vehicle and self-check machines are unchanged. - Assessing, Building Inspection, and Clerk’s Office: vehicle replacement funds continue with the 2% inflation adjustment; electronic poll books are unchanged. - FACT TV and Information Technology: FACT TV is working to consolidate cable delivery to a single channel; IT projects are largely unchanged, with the previously approved data storage array added to IT equipment. - EMS: Fitchburg-Rona EMS operates six ambulances and two SUVs; ambulances are kept for 12 years and replaced every two years. Fitchburg’s share of ambulance costs rose from roughly 50% to an estimated 70% under the new intergovernmental agreement. - Fire: most apparatus replacement schedules are unchanged; extrication equipment costs increased to add missing equipment; the command vehicle funding was reduced from $1.5 million to $500,000; SCBA replacement is planned for 2028. - Police: radios, body cameras, and fleet plans are mostly unchanged; taser replacement funding was updated; an additional K9 unit was moved to 2030 with grants/donations as the funding source. Police dispatch consoles were removed because dispatch moved to the county. Chief Morales said that if given a blank check, he would prioritize the real-time information center over the additional K9 unit. - Public Works and Parks: the City Campus Facilities Remodel increased by $4.85 million, funded by borrowing, with utility rent payments to the general fund adjusted upward. Parks changes included a new playground replacement fund, an additional $600,000 for Kids Crossing Playground bringing the total to $1,575,000, and a $1.5 million splash pad placeholder. The Nine Springs maintenance shed project, tennis/pickleball court replacement, Neighborhood Hub Phase Two, and the Haso Hochi basketball court cover were removed. - Streets: the Traceway/Leopold Bike and Ped project was revised to $1.265 million in construction with $758,000 in TAP grant funding and moved to 2028 design and 2030 construction. Syene Road was delayed to 2030/2031 to align with the Perry Street overpass timeline. Irish Lane was delayed to 2030 construction, with grant funding reduced to $1,685,195 and borrowing reduced to $1,014,805. The 2035 bus rapid transit extension was removed, and a new Osmondson Road traffic signal project was proposed for 2032 and 2036. - Water and Sewer: the Sciene interceptor extension is estimated at $3.57 million including carryover; McKee Farms Park pond dredging was pushed from 2030 to 2035; a new McKee Farms Park headwall replacement is planned for 2027; Well 13 and pump house construction was raised to $6 million and delayed; and a new Lacey Road water main extension was added. - Finance and Administration: the capital grant match fund is being used to leverage grant opportunities; the Expenditure Restraint Incentive Program is declining and expected to end, with one-time fund balance covering the gap for up to 10 years. Solar investment funds are being shifted to solar repairs, the hybrid/EV fund has been used for vehicle cost differentials and chargers, and the teen center was delayed to 2028 design and 2029 construction. Key Outcomes - Resolution R13726, adopting the 2027–2036 Capital Improvement Plan, was moved by Alder Jetzer and passed unanimously by the Finance Committee members present. - A public hearing will be held at the regular council meeting on June 23, 2026. A committee-of-the-whole discussion of borrowing needs and the five-year financial plan with LES is scheduled for June 24, 2026. - Alder amendments are due to the Finance Director by July 6, 2026. The second public hearing and council adoption of the CIP are scheduled for July 28, 2026. - The next Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for June 23, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. - Staff requested that alders use the electronic amendment form and noted that no floor amendments will be taken at adoption.

The Fitchron EMS District Commission convened on June 18, 2026, for its regular monthly meeting. Following a roll call, members approved previous meeting minutes, received the Chief’s report, handled several financial resolutions, and held a preliminary discussion on the proposed 2027 budget. No public testimony was offered. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the regular meeting on May 21, 2026, and the special meeting on June 3, 2026, were approved by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present or joined online to provide comment. Discussion Items - Chief's Report: Chief Boucher reported a significant increase in call volume, with 491 calls in the last month, tying the busiest month on record. Year-to-date call volume is down 1.2%. The district was out of resources 33 times in the past month and has required mutual aid from neighboring agencies 29 times so far in 2026. Personnel updates included the retirement of the last volunteer, Tom Bates, after 36 years of service, recognition of a cardiac arrest save, and the progression of a union grievance to state arbitration after the commission held a special meeting on the matter. The union also returned the permanent part-time MOU with proposed changes, which will be brought back for commission review. The ambulance fleet passed state inspection with minor violations. - Resolution 202603 – GASB 54: The commission approved assigning budget funds to specific accounts, including sick leave liability ($480,320.53) and contract negotiation legal fees ($21,000). - Review and Approval of Accounts Payable: The list of checks issued was reviewed and approved. - District Check Approval and Signing Authority: The commission updated the list of authorized check signatories, removing a former citizen representative and adding Alder Jake Leper to serve alongside existing representatives. The motion to nominate and approve Leper was unanimous. - Resolution 202604 – Use of Unassigned Fund Balance for Post-Retirement Health Care Fund: The commission unanimously approved allocating up to $88,328 from the unassigned fund balance to cover post-retirement healthcare payouts for two retiring employees, rather than drawing from the existing HRA fund. - Preliminary 2027 Budget Discussion: The commission reviewed a preliminary budget draft in a non-actionable session. The Chief highlighted an estimated 2% municipal increase for Fitchburg, a 2% increase for Verona, and a 0.35% increase for the Town of Verona. Significant expense drivers included a 3% wage increase for represented staff, conversion to permanent part-time staffing, and a proposed increase in the medical director fee from $33,000 to $66,000 annually. The increase would secure a physician on-site for a second day each month for training and run review. Commissioners inquired about the scope and value of the additional physician time, with specific questions about market comparison and concrete deliverables. The Chief clarified that the current fee has not increased in a decade and that the request originated from the department, not UW. The commission requested that Dr. Mansera be invited to the next meeting to discuss the proposal. A phased approach to adding staffing over several years was also outlined. Key Outcomes - Votes: Unanimous approval was recorded for the May 21 and June 3 meeting minutes, Resolution 202603, the accounts payable checks, the update to check signing authority, and Resolution 202604. - Next Steps: The 2027 budget was presented for discussion only and will be formally reviewed and authorized at the next meeting. Dr. Mansera was invited to present on the proposed medical director fee increase. The Chief will submit the preliminary budget to the municipalities for their input.

Note: The meeting transcript repeatedly references June 26, 2026, as the meeting date, but the provided metadata specifies June 17, 2026. This summary uses the official date of June 17, 2026, as instructed, while noting the inconsistency. The Library Board met on June 17, 2026, at 5:30 PM. The meeting covered routine approvals, reports from the director and alder, and updates on library operations, events, and infrastructure. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of May Minutes: Motion made and seconded; approved unanimously with no discussion or corrections. - Financial Reports (March): The board approved the March financial register and financial overview. The director noted a large chiller repair charge (account 240) and PLA conference hotel costs. The city administrative fee is now taken in one lump sum, and the threshold for highlighting items was raised from $5,000 to $10,000. Salaries and wages appeared high due to a three-paycheck month but will even out. The motion passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Alder Report (Logan): The mayor's proposed 2027–2036 Capital Improvement Plan has been published. Two library projects are included: - Library basement refit (2028) – $50,000 from library fund balance (related to police services facility relocation). - Library first floor refresh (2027) – $70,000 from fund balance (re-upholstering, shelving, general refresh after 15 years). - Library Director's Report (Wendy): - Statistics: Holds count remains unavailable due to ongoing ILS issues. The system experienced significant outages; a reading history feature is causing slowdowns, and purging pre-2020 data is being considered. School visits resumed (525 in May). Tech Tutor appointments are offered for one-on-one digital instruction. - Facilities: The library custodian was trapped in the elevator for an hour; the fire department rescued him. The elevator vendor had worked on it earlier but left; the vendor returned later to continue repairs. No other facility issues reported. - Personnel: An LA1 vacancy exists; interviewing planned for early July. - Miscellaneous: - Summer reading kickoff on Monday (June 14?) featured Haven's Petting Farm with 600 attendees. The library had 1,053 visits that day, the fourth-highest checkout in the system. Door counts have been 500–600 daily in early June. - Books & Brews fundraiser on June 27 (6:30–9 PM) for the children's library renovation. Tickets required, 21+ event. Breweries (Hop House, Delta, Youngblood), Blue Plate catering (literary-themed menu), AMC popcorn bar, Premier Trivia, and silent auction with 16–17 items. Board presence encouraged. - Research Park Drive reconstruction starts next Monday (June 22) for approximately one month, blocking access to the library parking garage. Staff will park at City Hall; library van moved to main lot; outreach supplies relocated. Book drop lane may be temporarily blocked. - President's Report: Recognized the library's 15th anniversary (June 29). Thanked staff for operating a first-class facility. Key Outcomes - Approved: May minutes and March financial reports (both unanimous). - Acknowledged: 15th anniversary of the library; Books & Brews event on June 27. - Next Meeting: July 15, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the same room. - Adjourned: Motion to adjourn passed unanimously.