Dane County Drainage Board

The meeting focused on reviewing and establishing procedures for an upcoming public hearing regarding District #27. The Board discussed the planned attendance of SIGMA Engineering to present the Assessment of Benefits report, the process for recording objections, and the potential outcomes regarding the approval of the report.

The meeting addressed the current status of District 2, including its reactivation and historical context since 1921. The board discussed assessments and records, focusing on developing an assessment of benefits based on agricultural soils and yields, and a flat fee for residential properties. They also covered the main ditch requirement to pass a 10-year, 24-hour storm and the process for landowners to review and comment on plans. Public questions and comments included inquiries about the number of landowners in the district, assessment frequency, and the district's purpose in preventing properties from being landlocked. Issues with stormwater runoff and water ponding were raised, and the board outlined the steps needed to clean out ditches and potentially add laterals. The next action for the board is to obtain a sample assessment.

The meeting addressed district policies on trees, brush, and spoil leveling, emphasizing property owners' responsibility to maintain drain access. A review of Outagamie County's policy was recommended to create a more specific policy. An engineering study for Drainage District #7 is underway to identify necessary repairs and maintenance. The loan status for Districts 8 and 9 was reviewed. The assessment process, based on land use and soil types, was explained, leading to a motion to increase minimum fees for agricultural, residential, and commercial properties. Assessments for costs were passed for multiple districts to fund engineering studies, maintenance, and repair work.

The meeting addressed District 19-Middleton, including an inspection of the district, its operational history, and potential restoration of Lake Middleton. Concerns were raised regarding trout fishing and DNR objections. The board discussed contracting Hendrix regarding a pump and determining permit needs from the DNR. The Badfish District's history, clean out plans, and an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Village of Oregon were reviewed. Public comments addressed piping issues, water output, and illegal connections. The board approved the Intergovernmental Agreement and an Annual Agreement with the Village of Oregon.

The Dane County Drainage Board meeting addressed District 4 improvements, including a presentation on the replacement of tile main and laterals based on a 2005 engineering report. Members discussed costs, the ability to handle outflow, benefits to non-members, and watershed inclusion. An informal poll was conducted regarding moving forward with improvements, and members recommended developing parameters for an engineering study. Other issues included waste removal, trespassing, insurance, and the validity of a 2018 assessment in District 7.