Mike Coleson

The discussion centered on potential uses for opioid settlement funding, with a primary focus on establishing a residential treatment center in northern Wisconsin, as there is currently a lack of such facilities in that region. An alternative proposal involved acquiring a large, recently renovated 52-room facility previously used as a nursing home and retreat center, which includes extensive amenities suitable for a treatment facility. The council discussed the necessity of securing buy-in from multiple counties (including Bayfield, Ashland, and Price) for co-funding the purchase and long-term operating costs. A secondary focus was placed on enhancing mental health services within the local jail, specifically increasing counseling hours from the current 8 hours per week to potentially 40 hours per week through an external provider like ACH. Further topics included the need for transitional housing (TLP) for individuals recently released from incarceration or prison, addressing homelessness among this population, and exploring options for medically assisted treatment, such as Vivitrol, as the county currently lacks an addiction specialist for such services.

The agenda for the meeting included calling the meeting to order, roll call, approval of the minutes from the January 14, 2026 meeting, and a review of the financial report. Key discussion items centered on the 2026 Governor's Fishing Opener, including sponsorship updates, lure design, and securing fishing boats. The committee also reviewed the 2025 Marketing Plan, specifically addressing outstanding invoices and the delivery of outdoor guides and corridor maps. Furthermore, the 2026 Marketing Plan projects and due dates were reviewed, along with a report from Travel Wisconsin.

Key discussion topics for this meeting include the report on the Public Meeting Notice, review of Occupancy Reports such as the Voucher Leasing Worksheet and Tenant Accounts Receivable, and Financial Reports including HABCO status. Old Business items slated for discussion are updates regarding E Fuller Inc. and Legacy Solar. New Business items include review of Property Insurance, HUD Updates, and discussions regarding Part Time Maintenance staff. The agenda also mandates the approval of Bills and Vouchers.

The meeting included a review of minutes, followed by discussions primarily centered on financial matters and budget performance for 2024 and 2025. Key financial topics included the September sales tax settlement, which was significantly down statewide, and the overall budget performance which indicated revenues on track or slightly ahead, with expenses slightly under budget. Specific attention was given to the 2025 proposed budget, noting a high net new construction rate (1.32%) and proposed salary adjustments (2% in January, 1% in July, plus 1.25% step increases, and expansion of steps to Step 15). Budget analysis covered levy calculations, including an operating levy increase moderated by a decrease in the ambulance service levy due to an off-year for purchases and the utilization of fund balance. The discussion also addressed proposed levy increases, capital improvements related to a communication tower upgrade, and transfers between funds, specifically concerning the Resource Development Fund allocation for dam projects. Funding recommendations for outside organizations, including Senior Resource Center and Namakagan Transit, were reviewed, as was the status of Library service funding formulas.

The Sawyer County Finance Committee meeting includes discussion and updates on various financial aspects, such as the treasurer's report, finance department report with sales tax distribution and budget updates, capital improvement plan update, and investment review. It also covers the EMS-Ambulance billing/financial report and a radio communications project update. Additionally, the committee will consider short-term financial assistance to NWCEP.