Barb Nowak

The council conducted three public hearings concerning sidewalk assessments, a zoning code amendment to allow accessory structures, and a definition update for consumer maintenance and repair services. Following the hearings, the city council held its regular meeting, during which it addressed license approvals, the declaration of intent to levy special assessments for sidewalk replacements, and an ordinance amendment. Additionally, the meeting included certificates of appreciation for staff members and updates on city facility projects.

The Commission discussed and recommended a certified survey map for properties at 111 and 105 Jefferson Street to support a pedestrian bridge project. Additionally, the commission reviewed the housing element of the comprehensive plan, discussing housing supply, affordability, and the status of ongoing residential development projects, including market-rate rentals and accessory dwelling units.

The council meeting included the recognition of Jim Scholes for 25 years of service, a proclamation for Public Works Week, and a presentation by a candidate for the Clerk of Circuit Courts. The council discussed the operation of split-body waste collection trucks and approved the renewal of a five-year cross-connection control contract with Hydro Corp. Additionally, the council approved a three-year assessment contract with Bulmar Appraisal, noting that a citywide revaluation was triggered by the city's assessment ratio falling below 90%.

The council held a public hearing regarding the repeal and replacement of the floodplane zoning ordinance to ensure compliance with updated state and federal requirements. Key discussions included allowable structures and uses in floodways and flood fringe areas, exemptions for historic structures, and the impact of the ordinance on property development and modifications. Additionally, the council approved street closures for the 2026 Waupaca Area Triathlon and authorized liquor and arcade device licenses for the Trucker's Lounge.

The meeting included the review and acknowledgement of the annual code of ethics. Action items addressed included a certified survey map for a two-lot subdivision at 780 Bowling Lane, which requires a rezoning request to proceed. Additionally, the commission discussed and recommended approval for an ordinance amending zoning code relating to accessory structures, specifically to exempt small pre-fabricated sheds up to 150 square feet from building permit requirements. Further amendments to zoning code definitions for consumer maintenance and repair services and construction-related businesses were also discussed and recommended for council approval. Finally, a presentation was provided regarding an electric vehicle charging assessment and feasibility study.