Christine Dehnert

The meeting began with the pledge of allegiance. A moment of silence was observed for the recent passing of Nate Sastro, who was noted for his significant contributions to community revitalization and philanthropic efforts. The council approved the minutes from the November 4th, 2025 meeting. New business included a presentation by Journey 21, providing an update on their initiatives for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID). Key updates covered their growth in staffing, volunteer hours, program offerings, and partnerships across eight Wisconsin counties. Specific discussions focused on their academic programs, including the Life Academy (in partnership with WCTC and Marquette University), the Summer Academy, and the 18 to 21 Transition Academy, noting successful internships and job placements. The presenters also announced plans for a future residential community, Journey at Paps Farms. Following the presentation, the council opened the floor for citizen comments, during which one resident provided an update on proposed infrastructure for public daily use and events downtown.

The key discussions and actions for this meeting focused primarily on food truck permit renewals and recommendations for land development projects. The Commission considered/acted upon the renewal of the Food Truck Permit for Lai Thai Kitchen and the initial request for a Food Truck Permit for Taqueria Doblado. Further agenda items included consideration/recommendation of the Certified Survey Map to divide one residential lot into two on George Street, the Final Plat for Prairie Creek Ridge Addition #11, and consideration/recommendation of an ordinance to amend the Planned Development Overlay District for the Pabst Farms Town Centre. The Commission also considered/recommended a text amendment to Chapter 18 regarding the review of Condominium Plats.

The strategic plan for the City of Oconomowoc is structured around key goals including improving and maintaining infrastructure and facilities, fostering community growth through planned development, and enhancing the effectiveness and financial sustainability of city government. These goals guide initiatives such as identifying future projects and funding mechanisms, comprehensive city development planning, and ensuring long-term financial health. The plan's objectives are exemplified by discussions regarding the strategic use of Tax Increment District funds to support affordable housing and broader community development.

The agenda for this meeting included several key items requiring Council action. The Consent Agenda involved the Developer's Agreement for Arrowood Subdivision Phase 5. Committee reports covered Finance resolutions concerning amendments to the 2026 Budget and accepting a proposal for Website Services from CivicPlus, as well as a Public Services resolution to approve a Refuse & Recycle Hauling Contract. The Plan Commission item focused on approving a Conditional Use Permit for a 165' monopole cell tower. New Business involved resolutions to approve a donation to the American Legion for Veterans Park Flags and license/agreement considerations related to the Lake Country Trail connection. Additionally, the Council addressed the first reading of an Ordinance to create and establish a Municipal Court and considered a Revised Lake Country Municipal Court Successor Agreement. The Mayor also issued a Proclamation Honoring John Gross for 35 years of Public Service.

The meeting commenced with roll call and the announcement of excused aldermen. The primary discussion focused on committee business concerning Tax Increment District (TID) Number Four. The finance director presented information regarding the termination of TID 4, which has reached the end of its life, and provided details on the option to pursue an affordable housing extension to utilize collected increment funds. The discussion covered the criteria for the extension, including requirements for benefiting affordable housing and housing stock improvements, as well as examples of potential uses such as infrastructure support, development incentives, land acquisition, and loans/grants for housing repairs. The financial implications of either closing the TID or extending it for affordable housing were quantified, showing a significant difference in retained funds for the city. The council indicated intent to take the matter as an action item in two weeks for a policy decision regarding the extension.