The Ordinance & License Committee of the City of Waukesha met on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. All five committee members were present. The meeting covered routine license approvals, a new ordinance addressing reckless driving impoundment, and temporary alcohol beverage permits for Raised Grain events. All motions passed unanimously (5-0). Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The draft minutes from the February 23, 2026 meeting were approved by unanimous consent. - Invited Bartender License: Approved the operator's license for Sarah Elizabeth Evans, with the committee noting her history and sufficient time elapsed since prior issues. - Other License Applications: Approved the Extension of Premises for For the Story LLC, sidewalk cafe applications for The Steaming Cup and Tofte's Table, and a "Class A" liquor license for Discount Smokes & Spirits. Discussion Items - Adoption of Wis. Stat. § 349.115 into Municipal Code (Reckless Driving Impoundment): Assistant City Attorney Michael Radovich presented a memorandum recommending adoption of the state statute, recently amended by the legislature. The ordinance allows police to impound vehicles used in reckless driving, even if the driver is not the owner and regardless of prior offenses. A minor typographical error in subsection 7A was noted and will be corrected before the second reading. Police Chief Thompson expressed full support, calling reckless driving a public safety threat and stating the ordinance would be a useful tool. Ald. Halvensleben asked about parallels with DUI impoundment and cost recovery for stolen vehicles used in reckless driving. The city attorney noted potential restitution or civil claims. The committee voted to recommend approval with the noted correction. - AB 105 for Raised Grain – Tribute Tuesday Events: The committee considered state-required municipal approval for Raised Grain Brewing Company to sell beverages at four Tribute Tuesday events (June 9, July 14, August 11, and September 1, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM). City Attorney Radovich recommended approval without restrictions on products sold, noting that non-alcoholic alternatives should be allowed. The committee approved the application and authorized the clerk to sign off on any additional, identical AB 105 applications if separate permits are required per event. - AB 105 for Raised Grain – GuitarTown Music Festival: The committee approved a similar municipal sign-off for Raised Grain to sell beverages at the GuitarTown Music Festival on June 13, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Key Outcomes - Reckless Driving Impoundment Ordinance: Approved for recommendation to the full City Council with a 5-0 vote. The ordinance will require second and third readings unless the rule is suspended. It will become effective the day after publication in the Freeman newspaper. - Tribute Tuesday AB 105 Approvals: Approved unanimously, with the clerk authorized to approve additional identical applications if needed. - GuitarTown Music Festival AB 105 Approval: Approved unanimously. - The meeting adjourned at 6:21 PM.
Public Meetings - Waukesha, Wisconsin
Public Meetings - Waukesha, WisconsinThe Board of Public Works (BPW) met on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers at Waukesha City Hall. Four members were present (Kevin Reilly, Eric E. Payne, Joe Pieper, Steve Kassens); Chad O'Donnell was absent. The board reviewed two bids, several operational items, and voted on a guardrail installation, fee adjustments, a composting contract, a stormwater agreement, and a solid waste ordinance update. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (ID26-03074): The minutes from February 19, 2026, were approved unanimously (4-0). - Approval of Payments (ID26-03082): Payments were approved unanimously (4-0). - Bids Received – N. Moreland Blvd. & Michigan Ave. Traffic Signal Improvements (ID26-03080): The Board recommended awarding the low base bid and Alternate 1 from LaLonde Contractors, Inc. in the amount of $433,976.02 (budget $500,000). Motion carried 4-0. - Bids Received – Concrete Pavement Patching & Sawing – City Wide (ID26-03081): The Board recommended awarding the low bid from State Contractors, Inc. in the amount of $595,190.00. Motion carried 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Frank Palm (625 Chicago Ave.): Spoke in favor of installing a guardrail at 524 Madison Street, citing two recent accidents where vehicles jumped the curb and nearly struck a home. He argued that existing chevron signs were insufficient and that driver risk from guardrail impact was minimal compared to pedestrian safety. - Lisa Salb (434 Madison St., President of Tower Hill Neighborhood Association): Supported the guardrail, noting frequent foot traffic in the area and that heavy concrete planters had been struck multiple times. Discussion Items - Guardrail Installation at 524 Madison Street (ID26-03085): City Engineer Brandon Schwenn recommended against a guardrail, citing safety risks to drivers from fixed objects in the right-of-way. He suggested alternatives such as additional chevron signs or concrete bollards. Ald. Payne strongly advocated for the guardrail, citing 35 incidents (including reported accidents and debris from strikes) over five years and emphasizing pedestrian protection. Residents Chris Messing-Palm also opposed the “do nothing” option. The Board voted 4-0 to recommend the guardrail installation (approx. $7,000) for Council Consent, with funding to be reallocated from the traffic signal project savings. - 2026 Drop-Off Center Fee Adjustment (ID26-03076): Interim Solid Waste Coordinator Emma Hastings presented two options: a moderate increase (Option 1) to reduce the deficit from $80,000 to $53,000, or a revenue-neutral increase (Option 2). The Board approved Option 1 (non-revenue neutral) with a directive to staff to track large items (boats, hot tubs, pianos) and consider higher fees for those in the future. Motion carried 4-0. Credit card acceptance will begin April 1, 2026. Discussion also addressed illegal dumping and bulky item pickup education. - Contract with Compost Crusaders (ID26-03077): Hastings reported about 20 regular users dropping off food scraps. The one-year contract costs $3,000 but saves $382 in landfill tipping fees, netting $2,800. The Board approved the contract 4-0. Members suggested promoting home composting, partnering with Park & Rec, or surveying users about interest in curbside service. - Update to Ordinance 13.055 – Residential Solid Waste and Recyclables Collection (ID26-03079): Hastings explained changes: adding a definition of “dwelling unit” and a process for eligible properties (e.g., Housing Authority) to opt out of city cart service for private dumpsters. The Board voted 4-0 to refer the update to the Ordinance & License Committee for further review. - Storm Water Management Practice Maintenance Agreement – Olde Farm Subdivision (ID26-03086): The Board approved a maintenance agreement between the City and Bielinski Homes, Inc. (4-0). A Bielinski representative was present. Key Outcomes - Guardrail recommended for Council Consent (motion by Ald. Payne, seconded by Ald. Pieper) – approved 4-0. - Drop-Off Center fee increases (Option 1) approved 4-0; staff to report back on large-item pricing. - Compost Crusaders contract renewed for one year – approved 4-0. - Ordinance 13.055 update referred to Ordinance & License Committee – approved 4-0. - Stormwater agreement with Bielinski Homes recommended for Council Consent – approved 4-0. - Future bids: Official notices for 2026 Alley Reconstruction and 2026 Asphalt Street Utility Repairs will close March 20, 2026, at 11:00 AM.
The Waukesha Common Council met on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered consent agenda items, approval of an AI Acceptable Use Policy, a site plan variance for Superior Crane Corporation, award of two public works contracts, reappointments to city boards, and a closed session for the City Administrator’s performance review followed by a vote on compensation. Fourteen aldermen were present; Ald. Joe Pieper was absent, and Ald. Dale Matthews attended via Zoom but could not participate in the closed session. The meeting adjourned at 7:26 PM. Consent Calendar - Plan Commission – Certified Survey Map, Prairie Song Dr: Approved a one-lot certified survey map on 4.0295 acres for residential development in the Rm-2 PUD district. (PC26-0008) - Finance Committee: No items removed; all committee actions approved. - Building & Grounds Committee: No items removed. - Ordinance & License Committee: License applications (Other Applications, ID26-03029) approved. - Human Resources Committee: Seven HR policy revisions approved (Commemorative Awards, Training & Education Reimbursement, Leaves of Absence, Staffing Position List, Benefits at Retirement/Termination, Employment Benefits, and abolishment of Website Linking policy). - Board of Public Works: - Cemetery Chapel Tuck-Pointing contract (OMNIA Partners) approved. - Easement with We Energies at 600 Sentry Drive for electric facilities to serve the MVB Storage building approved. - Resolution to submit a WDNR Municipal Flood Control Grant for Deer Path subdivision flood mitigation approved. - State Municipal Agreement for HSIP grant at Sunset Drive and Guthrie Drive approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present to speak. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes (February 19, 2026): Approved unanimously by voice vote. - AI Acceptable Use Policy (ID26-02919): Ald. Manion moved to approve edits that removed the requirement to label AI-generated content and added language clarifying that attorney-client privileged information will not be monitored and access to AI usage data requires legal authorization. The policy was previously approved by the Information Technology Board on February 4, 2026. Motion carried 14-0. - Communications and Engagement Team Year-End Review (ID26-03089): Held over to the March 17 meeting because the communications team was at a library focus group. - Final Site Plan & Architectural Review – 400 Wilmont Drive, Superior Crane Corporation (PC26-0006): Request for a new 31,234 sq. ft. industrial building and a 122-foot-wide driveway variance to accommodate oversized cranes (approximately 200-foot-long loads). The plan commission had recommended approval. Ald. Payne moved to approve; seconded by Ald. Moltzan. Motion carried unanimously (14-0). - Board of Public Works – Bids: - Davidson Road Utility and Street Improvements: Awarded low bid from Musson Bros., Inc. for asphalt base bid at $1,064,017.25 (budget $1.22 million). Motion by Ald. Payne, seconded by Ald. Wuteska; carried unanimously. - 2026 Concrete Sidewalk Replacement – City Wide: Awarded low bid from State Contractors, Inc. at $535,345.00 (budget $560,000). Motion by Ald. Payne, seconded by Ald. Wuteska; carried unanimously. - Mayor’s Report & Referrals: Reappointment of Jennifer Wallner and Eric Huemmer to the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Board, and Don Paul Browne to the Cemetery Commission. Motion by Ald. Chrisien, seconded by Ald. Halvensleben; carried unanimously. - Commission Reports: Transit, Water Utility, IT Board, Landmarks, Redevelopment Authority, Parks, Library, Cemetery, Housing Authority, CDBG, Public Art – all routine or no reports. - City Administrator’s Report: Held to next meeting. - Closed Session (6:20 PM – 7:23 PM): Pursuant to Wis. Stat. §19.85(1)(c) for City Administrator’s performance review. Motion to enter closed session by Ald. Halvensleben, seconded by Ald. Wigderson; passed 13-0 (Matthews and Pieper absent). Key Outcomes - AI Acceptable Use Policy: Approved unanimously. - Superior Crane Driveway Variance: Approved unanimously. - Davidson Road Utility & Street Improvements Contract: Awarded to Musson Bros., Inc. for $1,064,017.25. - 2026 Concrete Sidewalk Replacement Contract: Awarded to State Contractors, Inc. for $535,345.00. - Board Reappointments: Approved unanimously for Parks Board (Wallner, Huemmer) and Cemetery Commission (Brown). - City Administrator Compensation (after closed session): A motion to increase the City Administrator’s annual base salary by 4% retroactive to January 1, 2026, and provide a one-time bonus of 4% based on 2025 base salary. Motion carried 7-6 (Ayes: Chrisien, Wigderson, Wells, Moltzan, Wuteska, Anderson, Camacho; Nays: Payne, Van Trieste, Manion, Halvensleben, Dean D. Lemke, Rick R. Lemke; Absent: Pieper, Matthews). No other action taken.
The Building and Grounds Committee of the City of Waukesha met on Monday, March 2, 2026 at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers at City Hall. Three members were present (Eric Payne, Rick Lemke, Mike Anderson) and two were absent (Dean D. Lemke, Dale Matthews). The agenda included approvals of minutes, two street closure permits, a lighting study for Marshview Street, and two no-parking zone proposals. The committee approved the minutes, both street closure permits, and a modified no-parking extension on Wilmont Drive; no action was taken on street lighting for Marshview Street or a no-parking zone on Corporate Drive. Consent Calendar - Approval of January 5, 2026 Minutes (ID26-03061): Approved unanimously (3-0) with two absent. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Healy (Spear Crane Corp, 208 Wilmont Drive) spoke in favor of item D (Wilmont Drive no parking extension). He explained that his company manufactures 150-200 foot long overhead cranes and needs to safely maneuver them out of their facility. Cars parked on Wilmont Drive create safety hazards and daily inconveniences. He requested extending the no-parking zone to include the south side of Wilmont Drive from 400 Wilmont through 204 Wilmont to accommodate larger product shipments from a new building recently approved at 400 Wilmont. Discussion Items - Street Closing & Special Event Permits: - House of Guiness (ID26-03062): Approved unanimously (3-0) to close Municipal Lot No. 3 for the event. - Magellan’s (ID26-03063): Approved unanimously (3-0) to close Municipal Lot No. 3 for the event. - Marshview Street Lighting (ID26-03064): Discussion only; no motion was made, so no action was taken. Alderman Van Trieste, the sponsor, advocated for lighting along Marshview Street from Silvernail Road to Grandview Boulevard, citing safety concerns for an estimated 1,150 residents in the area, including new apartment developments (42 units behind CVS and a 76-unit building at the former Farm Bureau site). Engineering staff opposed the installation, noting that existing backlighting from adjacent businesses and apartment complexes provides adequate illumination, the road is not an arterial street warranting lighting, and estimated installation cost is $155,000. Crash data from the last five years along that corridor showed only three minor crashes, two at night. A lumen study requested previously was not completed. - Wilmont Drive No Parking Extension (ID26-03065): After public comment and discussion, the committee moved to expand the originally proposed zone. The approved resolution establishes a no parking zone on the south side of Wilmont Drive from the western property line of 401 Wilmont Drive to 25 feet east of the driveway for 205 Wilmont Drive. The motion carried 3-0. The expanded area was designed to accommodate current and future needs of Spear Crane Corp and avoid a future request. - Corporate Drive No Parking Zone (ID26-03066): Discussion ended without a motion; no action was taken. Alderman Anderson briefly noted the area is used by multi-unit garbage trucks and that the narrowed road design creates a dangerous situation, but no motion followed. Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes of January 5, 2026 (3-0). - Approved: Street closure permit for House of Guiness at Municipal Lot No. 3 (3-0). - Approved: Street closure permit for Magellan’s at Municipal Lot No. 3 (3-0). - No Action: Marshview Street lighting proposal (no motion). - Approved: Modified no parking zone on Wilmont Drive as described (3-0). Signage cost estimated at roughly $200. - No Action: Corporate Drive no parking zone (no motion). - Budget Update: The committee reviewed the current Building and Grounds budget: $5,242.48 spent year-to-date, with $11,884.30 remaining for 2026 (not including the approximately $200 for Wilmont signage). Note: The committee adjourned by unanimous consent.
The Waukesha Plan Commission met on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Commissioners Joan Francoeur, Elizabeth Moltzan, Shawn Reilly, R.G. Keller, and Heather Granger were present (5); Jack Wells and Jennifer Wallner were absent (2). The commission approved multiple development projects, discussed a consultation for a building renovation, and granted a two-year extension for a large multi-family development. Consent Calendar - Certified Survey Map – Prairie Song Dr: Approved by unanimous consent for a one-lot CSM on 4.0295 acres for residential development in the Rm-2 PUD district. Public Comments & Testimony - Lisa Salb (434 Madison Street) spoke against the Mandel Group extension request for the 219-unit development at 130 Delafield Street, urging the commission to vote no. - Melissa (161 Randall Street) opposed the two-year extension, citing evolving market conditions and potential design changes. She requested that any extension be subject to re-evaluation and that design modifications remain under commission oversight rather than staff-level decisions. - Eric Payne (215 Randall Street, Alderman District 2) supported the renovation of 222 W. St. Paul Avenue, noting the building needs significant investment and urged the commission to facilitate the project. Later, on the Mandel Group extension, he asked the commission to deny the request, referencing a prior denial for another developer under similar economic conditions. Discussion Items - Consultation – 222 W. St. Paul Avenue (PC26-0002): Developer Patrick McGraw (Hanahome Healthcare) presented plans to renovate the vacant portion of the building, including exterior repairs and interior layout for retail/commercial front spaces and light industrial trades in the rear. The commission advised pursuing Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) instead of Board of Zoning Appeals variances, and recommended blending the new facade with the existing renovated portion to visually unify the building. No formal action was taken. - Final Site Plan & Architectural Review – Montessori School of Waukesha (PC26-0003): Staff presented plans for a 14,000 sq. ft. addition and new parking lot at 2600 Summit Avenue. The project includes a gymnasium, academic spaces, a drive-through drop-off, and over 100 parking spaces. Staff strongly recommended a sidewalk along the north driveway connect to University Avenue immediately rather than in the future. Conditions included: all city department comments addressed, north sidewalk included, and engineering concurrence letter before building permits. - Final Site Plan & Architectural Review – UW Credit Union (PC26-0005): A new 5,200 sq. ft. credit union branch at 1808 Silvernail Road. The building will replace a BP gas station. Staff recommended adding evergreen or berm landscaping to screen headlights from the drive-through lane. The applicant requested approval for 24 parking spaces, slightly below code requirement (27 or 22 depending on interpretation). Condition: drive-through lights dimmed after hours, fuel tank removal approved by DATCP, and updated landscape plan approved by staff. - Final Site Plan & Architectural Review – Superior Crane Corporation (PC26-0006): A new 31,234 sq. ft. industrial building at 400 Wilmont Drive, replacing an existing structure. The commission approved a 122-foot wide driveway apron to accommodate oversized cranes (up to 200 feet long). Conditions: engineering, fire, water utility comments addressed; sign permits obtained; engineering concurrence letter. - Sign Appeal – Momentum Daycare (ID26-02939): Approval of a monument sign at less than the required 10-foot setback from the right-of-way along Saylesville Road. The sign will be placed at the property line (zero setback) rather than 6 inches from the line as originally proposed, to improve visibility and safety. Condition: all staff comments addressed. - Mandel Group Extension Request – 130 Delafield Street (ID26-03015): Request to extend the deadline to pull building permits for a previously approved 219-unit multi-family development. The extension was needed due to unresolved litigation (neighbor lawsuit appealed to Court of Appeals) and an ongoing conservation easement process with the state historical society. Staff recommended a two-year extension until November 19, 2028. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: January 28, 2026 and February 11, 2026 minutes approved unanimously (5-0). - Consent Agenda: Prairie Song Drive CSM approved by unanimous consent. - Montessori School Addition: Approved unanimously (5-0) with conditions, including the addition of the north sidewalk. - UW Credit Union: Approved unanimously (5-0) with conditions, including the option for a berm with grasses instead of evergreens for drive-through screening. - Superior Crane: Approved unanimously (5-0) with staff conditions and recommendation for 122-foot driveway. - Momentum Daycare Sign Appeal: Approved unanimously (5-0) with zero setback from property line. - Mandel Group Extension: Approved unanimously (5-0) to extend the approval deadline to November 19, 2028, with the condition that the project must remain consistent with the original approval. If plans change, the developer must return to the Plan Commission. - Director’s Report: Staff noted that all projects reviewed tonight would have required Plan Commission approval under the proposed new zoning code, helping commissioners understand future operations.
The Waukesha Ordinance & License Committee met on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. All five committee members were present. The meeting covered routine license approvals, a discussion on adopting state legislation to impound vehicles used in reckless driving, and held several applications pending further review. The meeting adjourned at 6:21 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the February 9, 2026 meeting were approved by unanimous consent. - Magellan's Extension of Premises and Sidewalk Cafe: A motion by Ald. Halvensleben, seconded by Ald. Van Trieste, to approve the annual St. Patrick's Day extension of premises and sidewalk cafe applications for Magellan's was carried unanimously (5-0). Discussion Items - Reckless Driving Vehicle Impoundment: The committee discussed a referral from Ald. Van Trieste to consider adopting Wisconsin State Statute 349.115 into municipal code, which would allow the city to impound vehicles involved in reckless driving offenses. City Attorney Brian provided a memo from his assistant Michael Radovich, noting that initial discussions with the police department had gone "full circle" on the severity of the remedy, but the final recommendation was to adopt the statute as-is. Alderpersons raised questions about enforcement, costs for stolen vehicles, impoundment periods (60 vs. 90 days), and the need for data on recent reckless driving citations. It was decided to table the item until the next meeting to allow for further input from the police department and Michael Radovich, who will attend to answer questions. Key Outcomes - Invited Bartender Applications Held: Applications for Sarah Elizabeth Evans (Q Club) and Lupita Stefania Roque were held over to the next meeting. The city attorney noted that both applicants had past offenses (eight and nine years old) that did not appear to be substantially related to license eligibility, but a recent self-reported OWI by Evans required follow-up. - Reckless Driving Ordinance Referred: No action was taken on the reckless driving impoundment ordinance. The committee will revisit the item at the next meeting with additional information from the city attorney's office and the police department.
The Waukesha City Council met on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 6:03 PM in Council Chambers at City Hall. Thirteen aldermen were present, with Jack Wells and Mike Anderson absent. The meeting adjourned at 7:02 PM. Key actions included approving the consent agenda, deciding two claims, settling a property assessment lawsuit, and receiving presentations from Revitalize Milwaukee and the Don Alexa Art Center. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from February 3, 2026. - Transit Commission: Approved the proposed 2026 FlexRide Contract with MobilSE, Inc., and bus stop changes. - Information Technology Board: Approved the contract with MaintStar for a new permitting, code enforcement, and inspection system; approved additions to the Acceptable Use Policy. - Plan Commission: Approved two Certified Survey Maps: 1901 S. Prairie Avenue (combining 34.817 acres for Weldall Manufacturing) and 400 Wilmont Drive (combining 2.2292 acres for Superior Crane). - Ordinance & License Committee: Approved invited bartender applications and other license applications (one bartender application held). - Board of Public Works: Approved Contract Change Order No. 2 with Edgerton Contractors for flood mitigation; Change Order No. 2 with Sure-Fire for Municipal Garage HVAC; agreement with Strongbox for 2026 paper shredding events; contract renewal with Legacy Recycling for e-waste and appliance drop-off events. Presentations - Revitalize Milwaukee Presentation (6:18 PM): CEO Melanie Roach described the nonprofit’s free critical home repair program for low-income seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities. The group completed work in the Strand neighborhood in June 2025 and has seven homes ready for sponsorship in Waukesha. Ald. Doreen Wigderson vouched for the program’s credibility and urged council members to help connect eligible residents. Several aldermen expressed support and discussed collaboration with city departments. - Gallery Art Presentation (6:34 PM): Staff presented artwork from the Don Alexa Art Center, highlighting textured pieces and winter-themed paintings currently displayed at City Hall. Discussion Items - Disallowance of Claim – Tyler Montney (Property Damage): City Attorney Brian explained that a sewer backup on Greenfield Avenue occurred without prior notice to the city. He recommended disallowance because the city was not clearly negligent. After discussion about pre‑emptive inspections and the timeline (three weeks from odor to city jetting), the council voted 11 to 2 to disallow the claim. (Ayes: Chrisien, Payne, Wigderson, Pieper, Manion, Moltzan, Wuteska, Halvensleben, D. Lemke, R. Lemke, Camacho; Nays: Van Trieste, Matthews) - Allowance of Claim – George Hardy (Vehicle Damage): A city skid‑steer operator backed into Hardy’s car during leaf collection. The city acknowledged negligence and recommended paying the $2,033.87 estimate. Ald. Rick Lemke questioned contributory negligence but supported the motion after explanation. The council unanimously approved the allowance. - Settlement – 177 Kensington LLC v. City of Waukesha: The city agreed to settle an excessive‑assessment lawsuit by setting the property value at $11,337,200 (midpoint between the city’s $12,735,500 and the owner’s $10,554,300). The settlement will result in a tax refund of approximately $18,766, partially reimbursed from other taxing entities. Ald. Rick Lemke clarified the property was not one that received an RDA loan. The council unanimously approved the settlement. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda and Minutes approved unanimously. - Bid Award: Approved the low concrete bid from Wandel Contractors, Inc. for Bidwell Avenue and Prospect Avenue utility and street improvements in the amount of $1,646,591.35 (unanimous). - Reappointment: Unanimously approved the reappointment of Ryan Corcoran to the Information Technology Board. - Proclamation: Recognized February 20 as Government Communicators Day. - Referrals: Ald. Rick Lemke referred removal of a streetlight on Windsor Street to the Building & Grounds Committee; Ald. Van Trieste referred consideration of expanded towing authority for reckless driving offenses to the Ordinance & License Committee. Reports - Water Utility Commission: Update on new operations center, progress on schedule. - Parks, Recreation & Forestry Board: Tree planting prices, pool schedule changes. - Library Board: Passed 2025 annual report, explored children’s expansion, approved county library services plan. - Cemetery Commission: Veteran area restoration funded by Friends, successful Tombstone Trot, upcoming Waukesha Unlocked event. - Human Resources Committee: Received 14 performance surveys for City Administrator, approved policy changes. - Board of Public Works: Reported leaf pickup in remaining areas, seed repair for damaged terraces. - City Administrator: Encouraged residents to complete the National Community Survey by the following Wednesday.
The Waukesha Board of Public Works convened on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Members present: Kevin Reilly, Eric E. Payne, and Chad O'Donnell. Members absent: Joe Pieper and Steve Kassens. The meeting covered bid awards, a contract approval, an easement, a grant application, a transportation agreement, and a routine departmental report. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the February 5, 2026 meeting were approved on a motion by Kevin Reilly, seconded by Ald. Eric Payne. Vote: 3–0 (2 absent). - Approval of Payments: Two final pavement payments for traffic signal projects on Sunset Drive were approved on a motion by Ald. Payne, seconded by Kevin Reilly. Vote: 3–0 (2 absent). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received. Discussion Items - Davidson Road Utility and Street Improvements – Bid Award: The Board reviewed bids received on February 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. The department recommended awarding the Asphalt Base Bid of $1,064,017.25 from Musson Bros., Inc. Staff noted the budget was $1.22 million (not the $560,000 printed in the agenda). The concrete alternate bid was also received but not recommended. A motion by Ald. Payne, seconded by Kevin Reilly, to recommend the low bid carried 3–0. - 2026 Concrete Sidewalk Replacement – City Wide – Bid Award: Bids were opened on February 6, 2026. The low bid of $535,345 from State Contractors, Inc. was within the $560,000 budget. A motion by Kevin Reilly, seconded by Ald. Payne, to recommend the low bid carried 3–0. Staff confirmed State Contractors had performed similar work for the city previously. - Fire Station 5 HVAC Improvements – Bid Rejection: Bids opened February 6, 2026, came in significantly over budget. The department recommended rejecting all bids and repackaging the project with a revised budget due to a costly refrigerant issue. A motion by Kevin Reilly, seconded by Ald. Payne, to reject the bids carried 3–0. - Cemetery Chapel Tuck-Pointing Project – Contract Approval: Using the OMNIA Partners Public Sector (U.S. Communities) contract, the department recommended awarding the base bid plus an alternate for land and stone repairs to the front of the building, totaling $64,600. The alternate work was included because it fit within budget. A motion by Ald. Payne, seconded by Kevin Reilly, to recommend the contract for Council Consent carried 3–0. - Easement for We Energies at 600 Sentry Drive: The Board reviewed an easement allowing Wisconsin Electric Power Company (We Energies) to install aboveground and underground electric facilities to power the recently built MVB Storage building at the Clean Water Plant. A motion by Ald. Payne, seconded by Kevin Reilly, to recommend the easement for Council Consent carried 3–0. - WDNR Municipal Flood Control Grant for Deer Path Subdivision: The Board reviewed a resolution to authorize submittal of a grant application to the Wisconsin DNR for design and construction of flood mitigation infrastructure in the Deer Path subdivision, which experienced extensive flooding in August 2025 (structure damage on Hunter Road and Frost/Foxcroft Lane). The grant is competitive, up to $600,000, requiring a 50% city match (if project costs exceed $1.2 million, DNR’s share caps at $600,000). A motion by Ald. Payne, seconded by Kevin Reilly, to recommend the resolution for Council Consent carried 3–0. - State Municipal Agreement for Sunset Drive and Guthrie Drive Intersection Safety Improvements: The Board reviewed a two-party agreement with WisDOT for a Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) grant. The state will pay 90% of eligible costs, up to $303,295, for a total project of $338,994. The project includes permanent safety improvements at the intersection, where a fatality occurred and temporary measures (signs) have already been installed. Construction is planned for 2031, with design starting in 2029. A motion by Kevin Reilly, seconded by Ald. Payne, to recommend the agreement for Council Consent carried 3–0. - Matter of Report – Leaf Collection Update: Director Damien reported that City Garage crews are collecting leaves as weather permits, but progress is slow due to soft ground from frost and rain. Crews will resume next week if weather holds. - Communications and Referrals – Upcoming Bid Deadlines: Official notices were announced for bids closing on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. for three projects: (1) 2026 Asphalt Street Resurfacing and Utility Improvements, (2) Transit Center Boiler Replacement, and (3) Deer Trails and Fox Lake Village Pump Stations Improvements. Key Outcomes - Bid Awards Recommended to Council: Musson Bros., Inc. for Davidson Road project ($1,064,017.25); State Contractors, Inc. for citywide sidewalk replacement ($535,345). - Bids Rejected: Fire Station 5 HVAC Improvement bids were rejected due to cost overruns; project will be repackaged with a revised budget. - Contract Approved: Cemetery Chapel tuck-pointing project ($64,600) recommended for Council Consent. - Easement Approved: We Energies easement at 600 Sentry Drive recommended for Council Consent. - Grant Application Authorized: Resolution to apply for WDNR Municipal Flood Control Grant (up to $600,000 with 50% match) recommended for Council Consent. - Grant Agreement Approved: State Municipal Agreement for HSIP grant at Sunset/Guthrie intersection (90% state share, up to $303,295) recommended for Council Consent. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned on a unanimous motion.
The Waukesha Water Commission held its regular meeting on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 4:30 PM in the Water Utility Conference Room. Six commissioners were present (Joan Francoeur, Jeff Fowle, Gerald Couri, Joe Piatt, Shawn Reilly, Peter Bartels), with one absent (Dale Matthews). A quorum was established. The meeting adjourned at 5:10 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (ID26-03045): The minutes from the January 15, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public attended or submitted comments. Discussion Items - Action Item A – January Voucher Lists (ID26-03046): Staff highlighted a payment of $82,000 to N Harris Computer Corporation for the CIS version 5 billing software upgrade (conversion expected by end of 2026) and explained that Diggers Hotline payments included an annual prepayment for 2026 tickets plus January tickets. A commissioner asked about locating accuracy for fiber and water facilities; staff reported no complaints. Approved unanimously. - Action Item B – Bidwell and Prospect Water Main Replacement (ID26-03048): Water Utility Manager Matt presented a contract with Wandel Contractors, Inc. for approximately 1,400 feet of 8-inch water main replacement at a cost of $407,708.18 (including 1% city administration fee). The project was part of the 2026 budget with an estimate of $836,175; six bids were received and the low bid was well under budget. The Board of Public Works and Common Council had already approved the prime contract. Approved unanimously. - Action Item C – Meadowbrook Senior Living Developer’s Agreement (ID26-03049): Staff described a 119-unit residential care apartment complex proposed by Tom Canka of Tuca Properties, located north of Coldwater Creek and west of Meadowbrook. The water main extension will create a loop, with stubs for future phases. The design was approved by DNR on January 15, 2026. The agreement is a standard 24-month term at no cost to the utility. Commissioners discussed the phasing and eventual connection to the Arrowhead loop. Approved unanimously. - Action Item D – Purchase of Materials from Ferguson and Core & Main (ID26-03050): Staff requested approval for $152,961.62 to Ferguson and a corrected amount of $153,522.09 to Core & Main (total $306,483.71) for 2026 inventory and repair parts. The memo in the packet had an outdated amount for Core & Main; the corrected motion was stated on the record. Funds are budgeted at approximately $330,000. Splitting between suppliers keeps like items together. Approved unanimously. - New Operations Center Update (Information Item A): Matt reported that the roof is complete on the shop area, windows are installed, and the office area is framed. The building is on time and under budget. Solar panels will be installed next. Warm weather has caused minor mud but progress is good. - 2026 Blanket Purchase Order Vendor Changes (Information Item B): Staff noted changes in vendors for safety equipment (Vickery Contracting replacing Corporal) and radios (split among five suppliers to avoid markup). Dollar amounts remain the same; no re-approval needed. - Utility Performance Report / Administrative Activities (Information Item C): - Dunst Case: The Wisconsin Court of Appeals affirmed the PSC decision favoring the utility regarding fire protection charges for a customer with three properties. The customer may appeal to the Wisconsin Supreme Court, but staff consider that unlikely. - Rate Case: Responses to the PSC’s first questions were submitted February 9, 2026; the requested increase is much lower than recent large increases seen elsewhere. - Audit: Auditors will be on site March 11–13, 2026. - Cross Connection Report: Submitted to DNR on February 17, 2026 (due March 1). - CIS 5 Upgrade: Work with consultant ongoing; system transition by end of 2026. - Main Breaks: 11 main interruptions since last month, including a break on Cumberland Street that occurred in a backyard without an easement. Staff noted that 60–80 houses have water mains in rear yards without recorded easements; a program to relocate mains to front yards (over 3–5 years) will begin, with the utility covering indoor plumbing modifications. - Other: Dump truck ordered last year arrived; smaller chassis expected next week. Lab inspection passed. Well abandonment bid documents to be presented in April. Diversion permit (due March 1) is in final QC. Staff had a Teams call with the Village of Oswego (Illinois) regarding Lake Michigan water transition; offered to present to their board. - Financial Report (Information Item D): - January water usage was up about 2% compared to the prior year, attributed to an extra billing day (30 vs. 29 days). - The first of three PILOT payments to the city in 2026 was $774,059 (total annual payment approximately $2.25 million). - Project updates: Bidwell & Prospect water main to start March 14; resurfacing bids due March 6; Davidson Road project delayed until after school ends; Williams Street on hold due to utility coordination; STH 59 reconstruction expected end of March; airline trail easement negotiations with Schoenstatt sisters are close to resolution. Key Outcomes - All four action items (voucher lists, water main contract, developer’s agreement, material purchases) were approved unanimously (6-0). - No additional votes or directives were taken. - Staff will continue work on easement acquisitions, well abandonment, and the Arrowhead loop phasing.
The Human Resources Committee of the City of Waukesha met on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers at City Hall. Four of five members were present (Doreen Wigderson, Paul Wuteska, Dale Matthews, Mike Chrisien; Mike Anderson absent), constituting a quorum. The committee reviewed and unanimously approved the January 21, 2026 meeting minutes, several revised HR policies, and the abolishment of an outdated policy. The meeting then moved into closed session under Wisconsin Statute § 19.85(1)(c) to discuss the City Administrator\'s performance review, with no action taken following reconvening. No public comments were received. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the January 21, 2026 Human Resources Committee meeting were approved unanimously. Business Items – Policy Revisions All policy revisions were approved unanimously. Key changes highlighted during discussion included: - G2 Commemorative Awards: Updated to formally recognize retirees with 10 years of service as eligible for a street sign, aligning policy with existing practice. - D2 Training and Education Reimbursement: Updated the submission form to include required information such as class schedules (two-week prior submission requirement) and grade requirements (A or B for reimbursement). - C3 Leaves of Absences: Reorganized language for clarity, added provisions for sick time based on full-time/part-time status, removed outdated leave references, and aligned with current federal/state FMLA policies. Alderman Chrisien confirmed the policy had been reviewed by legal and staff. - B16 Staffing Resolution Position List: Annual update reflecting FTE changes, including dissolution of library contracts converted to part-time security guard positions and employee title reclassifications. Alderman Chrisien clarified that Water Utility employees are listed due to shared benefits (life insurance, pension) but are not city employees. - C4 Benefits Election at Retirement or Termination: Added definitions (e.g., COBRA participant), added tuition reimbursement proration for departures within 12 months, and shortened the vacation run-out period from up to 12 weeks to three weeks (effective January 2027) to reduce payroll costs and free up hiring. Alderman Chrisien expressed hope that these changes would aid employee retention and attraction, noting many city vacancies. Staff confirmed the goal is to attract talent. - C7 Employment Benefits: Updated to reflect transition from paper forms to an online benefits administration system, removed specific health risk assessment amounts in favor of general language, and added allowance for in-service transfers to other 457 vendors for deferred compensation. Business Items – Policy Abolishment - B18 Website Linking: Abolished because this IT policy was under HR with no purview; IT has incorporated relevant content into its own policies. Closed Session - A motion was made and seconded to convene in closed session per Wisconsin Statute § 19.85(1)(c) to consider employment, promotion, compensation, terms and conditions of employment, and performance evaluation data of the City Administrator. The motion passed unanimously. After the closed session, the committee reconvened in open session and reported that no action was taken on the matters discussed. Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent following the closed session discussion. Key Outcomes - All seven agenda items were approved unanimously (minutes, six policy revisions, one policy abolishment). - The committee convened in closed session for the City Administrator\'s performance review but took no subsequent action. - No public testimony was heard.