Gabe Gilbertson

The key discussions focused on the Fire Chief's resignation, which the Board accepted, and the subsequent process for selecting an interim Chief, including inviting candidates to a future meeting. The Commission also planned to discuss and finalize the hiring process for the permanent Fire Chief position at the subsequent meeting scheduled for February 20th.

The meeting agenda focused on several critical items for the Board of Fire Commissioners. Key topics included the consideration and possible action on the minutes from the February 13, 2026 meeting, and the selection of an interim Fire Chief. The process for selecting an interim Chief involved convening into an executive session under Wis. Stats. 19.85(1)(c) for interviews, followed by reconvening in open session for final action. The board was also scheduled to consider and take possible action on the overall Fire Chief hiring process.

The Finance and Personnel Committee agenda for this meeting includes consideration and possible action on the January Check Register and P-card Statement, the 2025 4th Quarter Investment Report, and the 2025 Annual Identify Theft Prevention Program. Key financial actions involve consideration of an IT services Request for Proposal (RFP), a resolution for the 2026 Annual Designation of Public Depositories and Approving Other Financial Institutions for Investment, annual surplus allocation, and two resolutions concerning tax rescissions for specific parcels (SUXV0203-061 and SUXV0203-062). The committee will also receive an update on the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.

Key discussions during the meeting involved the consideration and action on the October 21, 2025, minutes, which were amended to reflect accurate attendance. The Board approved a tree removal request for Hidden Hills and subsequently approved the Caretta Tree Preservation Plan, following public comment requesting assurance that protected trees would be marked throughout the development project. The purchase of a Ford F-350 One-Ton vehicle was approved. The Board reviewed and accepted proposed pricing for The Ridge Rentable Spaces, modifying it to include a kitchen add-on fee structure and directing staff to offer modified rates to reoccurring renters for 2026 only. Additionally, 65 picnic tables were declared surplus. The Director's Report provided updates on The Ridge Grand Opening, Village Park construction progress, an upcoming Quintplex committee meeting, successful winter programming, and the start date for the new Arborist.

The 2026-2028 Strategic Plan for the Pauline Haass Public Library aims to position the institution for growth and prepare for a planned 2030 facility expansion, addressing increasing community use and current capacity limitations. The plan focuses on four strategic priorities: Community Engagement & Visibility, Access to Collections, Inclusion, & User Experience, Organizational Capacity & Staff Support, and Facilities & Preparing for Future Growth. It seeks to strengthen partnerships, enhance the library experience, and prepare the organization and community for a renovated and expanded library that can better serve everyone, reinforcing its vision as a cornerstone for an engaged and informed community.