Allen Hinkley

The Finance Committee meeting addressed several financial matters. Key actions included a motion to finance one squad car with Bluff View Bank over a three-year term using general fund money, despite one dissenting vote. A motion was passed to put the library roof replacement out for bid to determine financing, as the project cost exceeded $25,000. Additionally, the committee approved opening a checking account for affordable housing at Bluff View Bank. Other items reviewed included the November overtime report, the 2025 tax roll mill rate worksheet, past due utility accounts, bills for the upcoming December Council meeting, the November 2025 Treasurer's report, payroll verification, account check registers, and a budget comparison for General, Sewer, and Water funds. The annual budget amendment was reviewed with no action taken.

The council meeting included the recognition of a staff member for 20 years of service. Department reports were submitted with no additional comments from the Police Chief, Library Director, or Public Works Director. Key discussions involved the Park Commission approving dock improvements at Fireman's Park at no city expense, and the IT Committee having no recommendations. The Finance & Insurance committee reported on their meeting. Significant actions included authorizing the purchase and financing of a new squad car, directing preparation of documents to bid out the replacement of the library roof after estimates exceeded the threshold, and authorizing the opening of a checking account for Affordable Housing at Bluff View Bank. The council approved a substantial Change Order for the West Side Sewer, Water & Streets Project due to unstable soil encountered. License approval was granted for serving fermented malt beverages and intoxicating liquors. Resolutions were adopted appointing Election Inspectors, and ordinances regarding Public Fire Protection Service fees and General Service-Metered fees were amended following a 3% rate increase approval by the PSC. Finally, accounts payable and manual checks totaling over $1.3 million across various funds were approved.

The Special Council Meeting included proceedings for entering and exiting a closed session, which was held to consider the compensation and performance evaluation of public employees. Following the closed session, the council reconvened and approved the wages for the 2026 budget as discussed.

The meeting focused on finding solutions to drainage issues on Campus Court, with discussions on the development's construction not aligning with submitted plans. Options explored included recouping money from the developer and potential solutions such as adding a storm sewer system and a catch basin. The council decided to rescind previous actions related to the issue and to table further discussion pending a review of proposals and less expensive alternatives.

The ordinance amends section 2-1-6 of the City of Galesville Code of Ordinances, specifically pertaining to polling place hours. It repeals the former subsection 2-1-6 (b) and enacts a new subsection that sets the polling hours for all elections to be from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The rules for voting booths, ballots, election officials, and the conduct of elections as outlined in Title II, Wisconsin Statutes, will apply to elections in the City of Galesville.