Cindy Phillips

The committee reviewed voucher payments and received updates on the previous year's department budget and compensatory time. Approval was granted for several expenditures, including conference registrations, professional membership dues, and the purchase of replacement mobile data computers. The committee also formally approved the annual department report and adopted revised policies concerning computer equipment disposal, data center physical security, and incident detection, response, and reporting. Additionally, the committee discussed recommendations for improvements to the County's Policy and Procedure document, reviewed a modified quote regarding the publication of County Board proceedings, and received status updates on a telework proposal and ongoing infrastructure and application projects. Finally, the committee conducted an annual performance review of department leadership.

The Columbia County Farmland Preservation Plan, revised in 2026, serves as a roadmap for preserving farmland and farming for future generations within the county. It aims to balance economic development with the protection of agricultural, natural, and cultural resources, while respecting private property rights. Key strategies include a comprehensive land use planning and zoning approach to designate and manage farmland preservation areas, coupled with economic incentives like tax credits, to support the agricultural economy. The plan focuses on preserving productive agricultural soils, limiting non-farm development, and implementing density-based standards for residential growth.

This ordinance formally adopts the Columbia County Comprehensive Plan 2046 and an updated Farmland Preservation Plan. The plan amends the existing comprehensive plan by updating textual elements across elements 1-9, revising specific land use and floodplain maps (Map 8-3 Future Land Use, Map 5-10 Floodplains), and incorporating new farmland preservation text and maps. It ensures compliance with Wisconsin Statutes for comprehensive planning and farmland preservation through 2046.

The board meeting involved multiple key administrative and legislative actions. Key discussions included the proclamation of Fair Housing Week, recommendations from the Planning and Zoning committee regarding several land rezonings, and the election of the County Veterans Service Officer. Several resolutions were approved, covering grant applications for runoff management and snowmobile trails, budget transfers to address shortages in various departments including Health and Human Services, Human Resources, and the County Board, as well as the resolution of costs related to animal seizures. Additionally, the board acted on ordinances concerning fee structures for the District Attorney, the adoption of an updated comprehensive and farmland preservation plan, and amendments to the county zoning code. The meeting concluded with the board passing resolutions to express formal appreciation and commendation to outgoing supervisors for their dedicated service.

The board reviewed and approved several items, including reports from the Planning and Zoning committee regarding multiple rezoning petitions. Key resolutions passed included the appointment of a new County Clerk, a call to the state for sustainable transportation funding, a memorial resolution honoring a former supervisor, and revisions to the personnel manual regarding hiring processes. The board also tabled a resolution concerning the rights to purchase the Wyona Lake Apartments and adopted an ordinance related to zoning amendments.