Janelle Schumacher

The Common Council meeting addressed several operational and developmental items. Key discussions included reviewing and renewing the EMC Insurance policy for property and inland marine coverage, which noted a premium decrease of approximately 5% and automatic deductible increases. Bids received for the demolition of the Badger Mine & Museum building were rejected, with the suggestion to explore repurposing the structure for cold storage. The Council approved a Special Event Application and Temporary "Class B" Wine License for an event scheduled for March 7, 2026. Additionally, a Fair Housing Proclamation for January 19-24, 2026, was approved, as well as a Payment In Lieu Of Taxes (PILOT) agreement with the Lafayette County Housing Authority for Silver Lane Apartments, effective January 1, 2026. The Council authorized an expenditure of approximately $20,000 more than originally planned to extend electric utility service underground to Union Street concurrently with planned 2026 work. The Municipal Fee Schedule was updated to include a $20.00 non-sufficient fund fee. Following a closed session regarding 2026 Seasonal Employment Positions, the Council decided to change the Park Director position to non-seasonal and hired Dave Turpin for the role. Another closed session addressed the purchase of public property, resulting in an open session motion to proceed with the purchase of 0.32 acres from Diedrich Farms -- ILWI LLC for Industrial Park expansion.

Key discussions during the regular meeting included departmental comments requesting a schedule for sewer line cleaning and an update on the Water Street Sidewalk project, which requires repair sections to be put out for bid. The Council addressed billing inquiries, confirming FEMA grant reimbursement for a generator expense and following up on a donor contribution for the Veteran's Memorial work. The Council passed Resolution 2025-29 appointing election inspectors for a two-year term starting January 1, 2026. They also approved the Badger Park Field Agreement with Fever Baseball, contingent upon field availability and a review of insurance requirements with legal counsel. Further actions included approving Resolution #2025-30 authorizing the demolition of the Badger Mine & Museum Building, approving the 2025 Audit Engagement Agreement with Johnson Block CPA, and approving the early termination of the contract with The Sweeney Group consulting services. Finally, the Council confirmed year-end gifts for employees, extending them to include the senior meal program site manager and volunteer drivers, before entering a closed session to discuss strategy regarding the Water Street Property Zoning Violation litigation.

The sessions included a Public Hearing regarding the amendment of the zoning map to rezone a specific parcel from R-5 Multi-Family Residential District to PUD -- Planned Unit Development District. The subsequent regular Common Council Meeting addressed committee reports, including updates on the Highway 11 bridge project completion and electrical work on the tie yard parking lot. The council approved bills for multiple municipal funds, formally approved Ordinance No. 327 enacting the rezoning discussed during the hearing, and approved a Certified Survey Map dedicating a portion of Heller Court to the city for public street purposes. Actions taken during closed sessions included authorizing legal counsel to make a counter offer regarding a Water Street Property Zoning Violation, approving 2026 Employment Contracts with Union Employees and the City Clerk, approving an insurance settlement for the Museum building, and approving the purchase of property for the Industrial Park project. Additionally, the council approved infrastructure improvement grants and contracts, authorized proceeding with a Safe Drinking Water Grant application, approved a maintenance contract, authorized borrowing for general fund purposes, and passed an ordinance reducing the frequency of Fire Inspections. The council also approved a bulk mailing letter for the Badger Park Fundraising Campaign and set the Burning Ground Seasonal Closing Date.

The proceedings included a Public Hearing regarding the proposed 2026 General Budget, which was subsequently closed. During the subsequent Special Meeting, the Council addressed public comments, officially approved Resolution 2025-28 approving the 2026 General Budget and adopting the Tax Levy of $478,736. The Council also discussed the Request for Bid process for the demolition of the Badger Mine & Museum structure, including bid proposal language and insurance requirements. A closed session was held to deliberate on the purchasing of public properties or conducting specified public business, specifically concerning Water Street Property Zoning Violations. Following the closed session, the Council authorized the City Attorney to proceed with settlement negotiations discussed in confidence. Additionally, the Council approved a street closure for the rescheduled A Bit of Yesteryear Parade.

The City of Shullsburg's 2023-2033 Comprehensive Plan focuses on leveraging community assets to create an inclusive environment where residents benefit from a high quality of life. Key areas include economic development, housing, community resources, leadership, and land use. The plan addresses challenges like population decline and aims to enhance community stewardship, environmental sustainability, and regional cooperation to ensure Shullsburg remains resilient and competitive.