Town of Rice Lake

The Board meeting included the approval of a hardship variance for a yard barn and a discussion regarding the upcoming annual clean-up day. A new policy was adopted for dog license distribution requiring self-addressed stamped envelopes or in-person pickup beginning in 2027. The Board reviewed various old business items, including property maintenance concerns, garbage hauling regulations, and mobile home court license renewals. Additionally, department reports were provided regarding fire department operations, citation committee formation, and lake weed harvesting progress. Finally, the Board approved a significant fund transfer to pay taxing agencies for the February Settlement.

The Town Board meeting agenda includes several items for consideration and possible action. Key topics include a postponed Land Use Request concerning rezoning approximately 9.978 acres from agriculture to commercial for a landscaping business and future building construction. Other considerations involve the Mobile Home Court License Renewal for Grover (Anderson Trailer Court), insurance matters with Gregory Haynes, and the establishment of a four-way stop at 20th Ave and 19th St. The Board will also review correspondence, old/new business such as citations for the Nagel Property and the Montanis Boat Access being tabled until spring, and receive reports from the Building Inspector and Supervisors on various committees and long-term planning updates.

The public hearing was convened to address numerous compliance issues at the Anderson Mobile Home Court, including seven months of non-payment of parking fees for 2025 and the failure to submit required documents for license renewal, such as an application, annual fee, current rental agreement, and a list of owners and lot numbers. Specific physical deficiencies noted included poorly maintained units, siding disrepair, missing skirting, broken windows, and numerous unpermitted structures and debris across multiple lots. Testimony included an offer of assistance from the Wisconsin Manufactured Homeowners Alliance. The owner agreed to submit all required documentation and full payment by January 23, 2026. Subsequently, the governing body voted to suspend the mobile home license and allowed the owner a deadline of noon on January 23, 2026, to remedy the compliance issues.

The meeting involved approving consent agenda items including the Treasurer's report and payment of bills, following an inquiry regarding discrepancies in recycling totals and clarification on a floor aide expenditure related to flood damage reimbursement. A key discussion point was a land use request to rezone approximately 3.29 acres from residential to commercial for a plumbing shop, which was recommended for approval through the Planning Commission. The Board also approved a settlement and mutual release form with Owen Assessing and set dates for the Prochnow Assessing Open Book and Board of Review sessions. Old business included reminders about reviewing current town ordinances for the Nagel Property and addressing litter/animal feces on roads. Updates were given on the Montanis Boat Access project, which requires a plan before bidding. The Board authorized a significant transfer of funds to cover the January Tax Settlement. Discussions also touched upon electronic recycling options and a potential joint cleanup day with Bear Lake Township.

The proceedings included the call to order and the appointment of two residents to serve as tellers for the caucus. Key discussions centered on the nomination process for upcoming positions, specifically Supervisor III and Supervisor IV. Following the completion of nominations for both roles, a motion was made and carried to adjourn the Town of Rice Lake Caucus.