Barron County

The meeting commenced with roll call and public notification procedures, followed by an invocation and pledge of allegiance, and a moment of silence for former Supervisor Jerry McRoberts. Key discussions included moving the February Law Enforcement Committee meeting date, introduction of the new Finance Director/County Auditor Michelle Drury, approval of the agenda, and approval of the minutes from November 3, 2025, which required an amendment regarding a check amount to the Veteran Service Office. The board passed a resolution of intention to join the statewide public safety interoperable communications system, requiring a two-thirds vote. Several zoning ordinance amendments concerning reszoning in the towns of Cumberland, Prairie Lake, and Stanley were approved. The board also approved an ordinance designating additional portions of county highways as ATV/UTV routes, a resolution authorizing the motorized trail plan for 2026 and 2027, and a resolution clarifying funding for the Wisconsin Professional Police Association (WPPA) contract. Further resolutions were passed supporting Wisconsin's membership with the MS-ISAC and approving the 2025-2026 annual work plan for the county forest. Appointments were made across several boards, including the Public Health Officer, Health and Human Services Board, and ADRC Board. Future agenda items included a discussion on the self-funded health insurance fund closure and a social event hosted by a departing supervisor.

The meeting commenced with the invocation and pledge of allegiance, followed by introductions for new personnel: Shelley Shaw and the new County Forest Administrator and Trails Coordinator, Dalton Big. The supervisors received updates regarding an upcoming retirement party for outgoing supervisors and the scheduling of a group photograph for the outgoing board. Agenda items addressed included the approval of the current agenda and the minutes of the January 12, 2026 meeting. Key resolutions involved approving the annual salaries for the Baron Clerk of Courts and the Sheriff. Further resolutions included authorizing expenditures for a matching grant for Public Safety Answering Point funding, and approving funding for the County Clerk digital electronic images conversion project to preserve historical documents, including proceedings books and dam schematics. The Board also voted on a resolution in support of sustainable transportation funding, which involved removing a clause concerning adjusting user fees; this amendment failed. The main motion for sustainable transportation funding subsequently proceeded to a vote.

The meeting included discussions and presentations related to the county's budget. Key topics included the summary tax allocation, fund balance, debt service levy, and a comparison of the county's per capita taxation to state averages and surrounding counties. The board also discussed a request for a trail coordinator position, health insurance, and contingency plans.

The meeting included a roll call, public notification, and an invocation by Pastor Mark Lebrandi. Captain Hodc addressed the board, followed by a letter of commendation to Deputy Justin Roush for bravery during a shooting call. Carla Pot Shoefeld introduced herself as the next health and human services director. The agenda was approved, and Judge Babler discussed the Sallyport expansion and technology improvements, emphasizing the importance of video conference rooms for the court system. The Motorola radio upgrade purchasing and financing presentation was also covered.

The meeting included discussions on various topics, such as the removal of an agenda item related to the Housing Authority, the appointment and oath of office for a new supervisor, and a resolution authorizing expenditure authority for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars for the Baron County Housing Authority apartment complex rehabilitation. There were also discussions regarding solar panels, federal money, and potential increased credits for the project.