Karen L. Schuh

The content provided consists primarily of audio testing and technical setup discussions prior to the commencement of substantive agenda items. Participants were engaged in resolving issues related to video feeds, including camera settings and virtual camera activation, to ensure proper display and functionality for the meeting broadcast.

The meeting commenced with procedural formalities, including the pledge of allegiance. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comments concerning the proposed development in the neighboring Village of Big Ben. Residents expressed significant concerns regarding the scale of the development, its impact on the rural character of the area, potential negative effects on property values, and the lack of necessary infrastructure such as municipal sewer services. Several speakers suggested the Village of Vernon board proactively hire an attorney to review the development plans and object, especially given prior unanimous opposition sent to Big Ben. Board members acknowledged the jurisdictional limitations concerning the Big Ben development but committed to having village representatives attend the upcoming Big Ben meeting on March 19, 2026, leading to a motion to reschedule the Village of Vernon's own board meeting from March 19th to March 18th. Additionally, the board reviewed an advanced life support (ALS) agreement with the Village of Waukau, with one trustee expressing concern about outstanding payments from Waukau.

The meeting began with the presentation and recognition of an Eagle Scout award to Elijah Abraham. A significant portion of the discussion involved the status of litigation concerning the Scenic Ridge Homeowners Association versus the Village of Vernon regarding a cell phone tower conditional use permit, where the board was instructed on the judicial remand process and the necessity of adhering to the existing record without new evidence. The board also addressed the establishment of procedures for handling future matters related to this litigation to avoid ex parte communication. The second major topic concerned proposed amendments to the Village employee handbook, specifically focusing on Paid Time Off (PTO) policies, including holiday pay for probationary employees. The board debated whether probationary employees should receive holiday pay if a holiday falls within their initial three-month probationary period. The zoning code amendments were remanded back to the Plan Commission for further amendment regarding section 300-46 concerning changes and amendments authority, with plans to return the matter for public hearing later.

The document records a public test conducted by the Village of Vernon in preparation for the spring primary election. The proceedings involved testing the election machines, including clearing and qualifying them, and performing a retry of the process. Key discussions involved confirming that election results were sent to the county and concluding the public test by locking the machines.

The joint Village Board and Plan Commission meeting convened on July 12, 2023. A key focus of the discussion was the review of Wetland standards, including comparisons with DNR guidelines and Waukesha County ordinance standards, specifically regarding required setbacks for structures and impervious areas near wetlands. Staff presented research recommending a 20-foot setback from delineated wetlands when stormwater management regulations are not triggered, noting that county standards often impose a 75-foot setback. There was significant discussion regarding adopting a smaller standard, such as 10, 15, or 20 feet, and the inclusion of a provision for the Plan Commission to grant waivers on a case-by-case basis if no negative impact to the wetland can be demonstrated, similar to procedures in other municipalities like Muskego. The public hearing for Dean and Tracy Pavlich was rescheduled.