Joshua Finch

The meeting began with the President's comments, welcoming a student representative and extending holiday wishes to staff, students, and families. Key agenda items included the approval of the current agenda and the minutes from the November 10, 2020 regular board meeting, following a discussion regarding linking a document reference in the minutes. The board also addressed communications, accepting a thank-you letter and approving a donation of $4,390.79 from the Waupaca Rotary Club, designated for various projects through their education grant program. The District Administrator presented a detailed proposal for the Superintendent evaluation process for the year, focusing on establishing a "Partnership of Purpose" through three main factors: building trust (benevolence, caring, honesty, openness, reliability, competence), understanding roles and responsibilities (Board sets policy, Administration carries it out), and effective communication. The proposal involved specific time allocations throughout the year for formative assessments, updates, and feedback sessions, including one-on-one weekly meetings between the Superintendent and each board member to foster better communication and relationships, especially in light of challenges experienced during the COVID-19 period.

The meeting commenced with the formal call to order and roll call, followed by an acknowledgment of guests from the city of Clintonville and the city administrator from New London. A moment was dedicated to recognize Connie Albert, who was retiring following a severe accident two and a half years prior. Key discussions included the approval of the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting. Ordinance amendments involved the rezoning of property for Mammoth Storage LLC from AE district to RC-0 district for expansion purposes, and revisions to school zone restrictions near New London High School, setting speed limits to 25 miles per hour at all times. Resolutions addressed authorizing the Department of Health and Human Services to pay for a CCS Support Technician weight class 6 position, noting it would be budget-neutral due to full reimbursement through the CCS program, and authorizing the addition of an Equipment Technician position for the Waupaca County Highway Department. The UW-Extension report highlighted the Farm to School program, involvement in the suicide prevention coalition, and updates on a broadband survey. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the ongoing discussion regarding a new County Board facility, including project cost estimates of $27.6 million from an initial space needs study, re-evaluation of the proposed location on County Highway A, potential annexation into the City of Waupaca for utility servicing, and touring facilities like the Jefferson County Highway Department and Fort McCoy maintenance facility to inform design decisions. The board also discussed securing a construction manager for the facility project.

The proceedings included a public hearing to amend the 2030 comprehensive plan regarding the zoning for a future Public Works facility and salt shed on the former Harbor cornfield site. Key discussions and reports covered the ongoing work regarding the Granite Street project, a planned clarifier rehab project for the wastewater system, and the gathering of proposals for a backup generator at the Cover Bridge lift station. Updates were provided on street snow removal efforts, waiting for approval on Main Street 60% plans, and traffic signal issues. Department reports included the Treasurer noting an upcoming deputy treasurer retirement in May, the Library reporting on positive feedback for fine-free programs for kids, the development of a makerspace in collaboration with the school district, and updates on the annual financial exhibit attendance. The Public Works department also discussed the specification for a new medium-duty truck and interviewed candidates for a new water operator position. The Parks and Recreation department reported successful Winter Rec Fest activities, the distribution of the new spring/summer program booklet, and the approval of a Lake Management Plan grant.

The meeting commenced following acknowledgement of a recently deceased dedicated board family member. Key agenda items included amendments to the general code ordinances related to comprehensive plan maps for the Towns of Dayton and Waupaca, specifically concerning zoning amendments to allow for commercial use, including self-storage warehouses. Further actions included the approval of wage adjustments for circuit court bailiffs and the acceptance of a $4,500 donation for the drug treatment court. The Board also formally acknowledged the resignation of Supervisor Michael Wittmann, thanking him for his service. A significant portion of the meeting involved discussion and approval to write off uncollectible debt from a bankrupt entity, Infinity Metals, following receivership proceedings. Additionally, the Board heard a presentation from the East Central Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission regarding the need to establish a Veteran's Outreach and Transportation Coordinator position, functioning as a mobility manager, to address growing veteran transportation needs and associated costs.

The City of Waupaca's Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan serves as a five-year update and long-range guide for the development and enhancement of parks, natural areas, and recreational facilities, shaped by public input and data analysis. Its strategic goals focus on preserving and enhancing the quality, safety, and accessibility of existing parks, expanding and diversifying amenities to promote active, healthy lifestyles for all age groups, and improving connectivity, walkability, and equitable access to parks and trails across the city. The plan also ensures eligibility for competitive grant programs.