Richard Bauer

The committee discussed and approved an ordinance relating to public nuisance properties, addressing issues with repeat calls to specific locations. They also reviewed and set the 2027-2030 annual compensation wages for the Clerk of Court, Sheriff, and Coroner, based on market comparables and Human Resources Committee recommendations. A risk management and safety update provided details on recent highway equipment incidents, a fire, and responses to a historic snowstorm. The committee reviewed financial reports, including vendor invoices, payroll, and investment summaries, and discussed a resolution for establishing a petty cash fund for the Register of Deeds. Additionally, a closed session was held regarding the investment of public funds.

The committee reviewed the 2025 year-end recycling report, covering revenue, expenses, and operational metrics such as load counts and material weights. Discussions included the status of 2026 site contracts, potential changes to the 2027 Clean Sweep program to reduce costs, and an increase in the La Crosse Milling rate. Additionally, the department manager proposed installing cement barriers at the Mondovi building to prevent wall damage.

The meeting involved the review of financial reports including account balances and revolving loan funds. Key business items included the presentation of the annual audit, a presentation from the Coulee Region Business Center, and decisions regarding county contributions, staff salary increases, and various grant administration and comprehensive plan contracts. Additionally, updates were provided on hazard mitigation planning, economic development and tourism conferences, transportation activities, and regional business development grants.

The meeting involves a discussion on a formal request to lower the speed limit on River Road/County Road OO from 35 mph to 25 mph to improve safety for residents and pedestrians. The commission will review crash data from the intersection of Spring Lake Road to Blecha Lane and evaluate traffic complaint and stop reports to assess the necessity of this speed reduction. Additionally, the agenda includes departmental updates from the Sheriff's Office, Emergency Management, Highway Department, Wisconsin Department of Transportation, and various representatives regarding highway safety planning, operations, and educational initiatives.

The board agenda includes discussions on becoming a self-organized county via ordinance, authorizing a contract for corporation counsel services, and approving the Chief Elected Officials Consortium Agreement for the Western Wisconsin Workforce Development Area.