Nicole Ewing-Vitalis

The Board addressed multiple resolutions, including a zoning district map amendment for the Town of Luck, authorization for the Public Safety and Public Works Committee to proceed with the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail Master Planning process, and updates to the rural function classification system. Furthermore, the Board adopted a policy prohibiting retaliation against employees for good faith reporting of concerns and approved revisions to county financial policies regarding procurement thresholds and protest procedures. Additional business included confirmations of appointments to the Local Emergency Planning Commission and receipt of reports from the Chairperson and Administrator.

The meeting commenced with roll call and the approval of the agenda, noting that the corporation council would be late and that agenda items seven and nine would be postponed. The board approved the minutes from the October 14th, 2025 meeting. A significant portion of the session was dedicated to public comments regarding the opioid and addiction crisis, specifically focusing on the importance of Narcan availability, the need for accessible local detox and treatment centers, and the connection between substance use and community violence. Following public comment, the committee proceeded to agenda item six, the receipt of information from non-seated supervisors, and began a discussion and review of the public nuisance ordinance redline version, specifically addressing enforcement procedures.

The Polk County Board of Supervisors convened for a regular session, addressing several key items. The agenda included a presentation by the West Central Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (WCWRPC) regarding their services and the WCWRPC Regional Business Fund. The board discussed and considered the Administrator's Goals, as well as the renewal of the Administrator's Contract, and engaged in negotiations regarding a contract with the DNR for the Stower Seven Lakes Trail. Additionally, the board confirmed the appointment of a Humane Officer and received reports from the County Board Chairperson and the County Administrator, covering topics such as sales tax, transportation funding, and updates on various county projects.

The meeting included a public hearing for the budget, with discussions on the levy, expenditures, sales tax, and debt service. A presentation covered the budget overview, including the justice center HVAC project, wage increases, estimated revenues and expenditures, and the capital improvement plan. There were also public comments on the budget and other issues such as the Hour 7 lake trail and the billboard issue.

The meeting included discussions on an amended agenda, public comments regarding a proposed quarry and short-term rentals, and an application for a sustainable forestry grant for roller chopping. There was also a presentation on groundwater testing results, covering topics such as nitrate levels, coliform bacteria, and chloride levels across various watersheds.