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TOWN OF ROCHESTER Link to Town Board Meetings
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Link to Town Board Meetings |
July 2, 2004 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING 8:30 A.M.
A special meeting was held at the N. Honey Lake Road reconstruction site with Gary Beck and Mike Weinkauf present. Paul Beere was absent.
Betty Novy, Clerk, and Gary Chart, Public Works Supervisor, were also present.
Sarah Wilfert and Paul Schaefer were present representing Crispell-Snyder Engineering.
The Board met with the road crew and site supervisor to discuss problems encountered with subgrade materials. Many sites have poor soils that require excavation and fill with 2” rock or other appropriate materials. It was estimated costs may reach approximately $20,000.00 more than the bid amount. After viewing problems encountered, the Board agreed to fill the site where necessary. In addition, two concrete culverts are to be installed to the south end of the project to help with drainage.
Excavation exposed roots of two trees on a property. Mike and Gary will check with the property owner to see if he wishes the trees to be moved. If agreeable, Chuck’s tree moving service is to be contacted to perform the service.
Submitted by:
Betty J. Novy Clerk
July 12, 2004 REGULAR BOARD MEETING 7:30 p.m.
Meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. with Gary Beck, Paul Beere and Mike Weinkauf present.
Betty Novy, Clerk, Colleen Holder, Treasurer, and Gary Chart, Public Works Supervisor, were also present.
Mike moved, 2nd by Paul to approve minutes of the June 14, 2004 meeting as printed. Motion carried.
Gary moved, 2nd by Mike to approve July disbursements as follows. Motion carried.
Town General Disbursements
Rochester Sewer Utility District #1 Disbursements
Treasurer’s Report: Colleen read the Treasurer’s report as follows.
Public Works Department. Gary Chart reported not having access to the High School’s shed at Case Eagle Park. Gary Beck will check into it.
Sheriff’s Department. Sergeant Kacmarcik reported the following statistics for June: zero accidents; eight speeding citations, forty-five traffic citations; one parking citation and forty-five warnings were issued. Complaint statistics were as follows: thirty-one complaints originated through calls directly to the Sheriff’s Department; Deputy Prochaska assisted with twenty additional complaints, performed follow up on four and originated twenty-five on his own. Twenty-eight foot patrols were conducted. Special enforcement on an Alpine Valley event netted only one citation for the Town; it was noted this type of enforcement is not as active for the Town as it is for the Village. Deputy Prochaska reported working later hours for the summer. Many citations have been written for violation of “Road Closed” signs on N. Honey Lake Road over the past month. He brought up past discussions on a uniform house numbering system. An emergency call in May resulted in a death. Though the death may not have been avoided, squads passed up the residence when the house number posted was smaller than the ordinance calls for and the same color as the house. He requested the Board take a second look at the numbering issue. He understood the Town of Raymond assessed individuals for new house numbers on their tax bills and thought this might be an option. Other than that, Deputy Prochaska reported no major problems so far this year. He met with Tom Jung at the Oakes and Jung gravel pit and identified lack of signage and an unlocking gate as biggest violations of the Town’s agreement with them. Tom indicated they are working on clearing the property of weeds and expect them to be cleaned up shortly. Deputy Prochaska will copy Board members on his final report when it is ready. Tom Jung will want to be on agenda after receiving correspondence from the Town documenting these violations.
Site Plan Review to construct a walled Veteran’s Memorial with flag pole Commander Hembrook reported that names of local WWI and WWII veterans were previously displayed at the Waterford Bowl, which has since burned down. Fortunately, the names were saved. The proposed walled memorial will allow those names to be displayed again. The memorial will be placed straight in from the curb on STH 20, with enough slope to accommodate drainage. The site will be attractively landscaped and well maintained. A flag pole on the site will be lighted. Care will be taken so light does not shine on abutting property owners. Because of elevations, the abutting property owner to the left won’t be able to see the memorial; to the right, planted evergreens already provide a screen. On Thursday, the Plan Commission raised an issue on drainage. The Board concurred engineer review is appropriate for this purpose. Bob reported the property will be surveyed by Degen-Foat. He will be working with the Department of Transportation to obtain approval for a sidewalk from the curb to the memorial. Front and back wall dimensions were briefly discussed; this will be a poured wall. Mike moved, 2nd by Paul to approve the site plan to construct a walled Veteran’s Memorial with flag pole contingent that the site be reviewed for drainage. Motion carried.
Randy Oaklief reported on several cost related issues regarding operation of the Humane Society and redistribution of those costs in the proposed 2005 – 2007 contract. Previously, outlying municipalities paid 75 cents per resident while the City of Racine paid $1.40 per resident towards animal control costs. This contract attempts to evenly distribute increasing animal control costs on a County-wide per capita basis: $1.50 per resident. Randy reported twelve of the eighteen Racine County municipalities have signed the contract. Countryside has reduced the term of the contract to one year and expect discussion by municipalities over the course of this year to decide what kind of animal control services are needed; and how each municipality is going to provide and pay for them. All eighteen municipalities need to sign the 2005 contract in order for them to provide the service. Out of Countryside’s $600,000 annual operating budget, $287,000 is associated with providing animal control services. Randy explained 70% of costs are what goes on at the shelter (vs. pick up or transport costs). State Statutes require that stray animals receive food, care and medication for seven days before euthanization. The shelter must also advertise in the newspaper that the animal was picked up. The facility offered shelter to almost 4,000 animals last year. Incoming animals continue to increase. The building will have to be enlarged in the future, however private fundraising efforts will most likely cover capital costs of the project. The shelter offers the ability for residents to surrender animals for a nominal fee with no questions asked; almost 50% of dogs taken in at the shelter are reclaimed or adopted. They provide low-cost spay and neuter services two times a week. They are the third largest Humane Society in southeast Wisconsin. Randy indicated they do much more than dog catching. Based on information obtained from S.E.W.R.P.C., animal control costs shouldered by other southeast communities cost anywhere from $4-7 per capita.
Paul indicated the Town’s concern is the high costs incurred under this new contract for a low number of calls. Randy replied there are two parts to animal control costs: pick up and shelter, with operation of a shelter being the highest. He indicates the playing field for cost distribution has not been leveled since 1991. This cost sharing proposal is offered on a per capita basis. The Humane Society Board feels this is the most equitable way, but is willing to listen if there is another way that is agreeable to all the municipalities. Randy suggested thinking of participation in the contract as an insurance policy. If the Town had an incident involving 20 – 30 horses, costs could go as high as $90,000, particularly if the issue went to court and the Town had to provide care over an extended period of time. A horse can cost up to $1,000.00 per month if it is in need of veterinarian care. Randy indicated the cost of animal control should be covered by dog license fees (vs. tax dollars) and stated an estimate of 24% of dogs not being licensed. Consensus of the Board was the Town has a much higher percentage of animals licensed and that license fees will not cover increased costs of the contract. Some suggestions were made regarding raising license fees or extending license requirements to cats and/or other animals. Randy suggested Board members participate in upcoming meetings to discuss the future of animal control services.
Gary moved, 2nd by Paul to approve the 2005 contract at an annual cost of $3,540. Votes were: Gary: Aye; Paul: Aye; Mike: Naye. Motion passed.
Evergreen Drive right of way and drainage issues
Hiram and Ben Miller, owners of 29200 Evergreen Drive, addressed the Board. Hiram reported on a previous meeting with Gary Chart on July 8th to discuss resurfacing their parking lot and required removal of stones from the road right of way abutting the parcel. The Millers’ expect to put four inches of new blacktop on their parking lot and will remove the 50 – 60 feet of stone in the right of way. However, they have concerns over drainage issues affecting the parcel. They do not wish to resurface until these issues are resolved. After meeting with Gary and Merit Asphalt, the contractor doing their work, Merit agreed to fax over several proposals to address work in the Town right of way and the drainage issue. The proposals were as follows: remove and replace failed asphalt in Town easement (approximately 768 square feet): $1,400.00; remove rock and debris from easement area north of approach, set subgrade for 3’ of topsoil: $1,725.00; excavate drainage swale approximately 15’ x 127’ and remove debris from site: $2,674.00; and install stone to drainage swale: $2,764.00.
The Miller’s explained that if the Town would perform this work, they would then remove a berm alongside their parking lot and regrade that area to meet what is done in the right of way. They would mow the 10 – 20 foot drainage area to keep drainage working. Hiram presented pictures of the property and indicated the ditch has filled in during the years.
Gary acknowledged the drainage problem but noted the Town did not budget monies to address the problem this year. As it is now, the Town is expecting N. Honey Lake Road expenditures to far exceed the budget. The Millers’ explained they need to fix the parking lot this year so the property looks nice and is safe for commercial tenants. Gary indicated the berm could be silting and filling in the ditch. Consensus of the Board was to grant the Millers’ permission to remove the berm, remove the rocks, and regrade the parking lot to slope towards the ditch. The Town will look at next year’s budget and consider providing monies to fix drainage. This work will have to be bid out with any other road projects.
The Millers’ then questioned whether the Town has any fence ordinances. An abutting property owner created a lot line fence using galvanized pipe and taping to keep customers from parking on his property. It was explained the Millers’ had made an offer to purchase the land to expand their parking area, but the offer was refused. Board members replied there is no ordinance regulating the appearance of fencing.
Gary Chart left at this time.
N. River Road repair issues: John Hamric, 104 N. River Road
The asphalt in front of this residence has been popping out and is in need of repair. Gary Chart is to consult with Racine County and report repair options back to the Board next month.
Application for Holding Tank:
Kathleen addressed the Board. She stated if the Board approves the holding tank, she will have an engineer do any additional studies required for the parcel. Gary stated the position of the Board in the past has been such that holding tanks were only allowed in an emergency situation. The question before the Board now is whether to change that policy. Kathleen explained Racine County sold the property at a cost similar to buildable lots in the area. The county never represented the property as being on silt. Mike reported on discussion of this item by the Honey Lake Protection and Rehabilitation Board. They indicated no objection to the permit and would like to see a home situated on the lot. A concern was expressed that allowing this holding tank would set a precedent for the future. By approval, the Board would be making a lot sellable vs. fixing a problem with an existing house. Consideration might be different if someone had bought the land to build a home and brought proof that no other system was allowed. Kathleen responded the County charged her $6,000.00 for the lot; a cost comparable to other lots. Paul stated the Sheriff’s Sale was an “as is” situation. There were no guarantees. Kathleen indicated other septic types are allowed under Comm 83, however investigation of a suitable system is expensive. Consensus of the Board was that they need proof that no other type of system will work. Kathleen should research the feasibility of other allowable systems for the lot. Paul moved, 2nd by Gary to deny the application at this time. Motion carried.
Proposal to address grading issues around the Fox River Prairie Lift Station: Landcraft Survey
A grading plan, dated May 26, 2004, was submitted by Landcraft Survey to address grading issues surrounding the Fox River Prairie Lift Station. Betty verified the plan has been reviewed and found acceptable by Paul Hollander, owner of the property upon which the lift station is situated, with the exception that the top elevation of the retaining wall be adjusted to 773.5. Gary moved, 2nd by Paul to approve the grading plan assuming adjustment to the 773.5 elevation and that Golden Fields Development agrees to pay the costs in full. Motion carried.
Cost Sharing Issues: Camelback Farms Subdivision
Gordon Hurley reported final surfacing of their subdivision roads has been completed. Gordon requested that, in addition to reimbursement for an additional ½ inch of asphalt, the Town also reimburse him for the additional ½” of shoulder material required for the project. Gordon explained since all lots were already sold, they can’t recoup this additional cost by increasing the sales price on remaining lots. There was discussion on materials used for shouldering. It was verified grindings were not allowed. Gordon requested the Town engineer reduce the required letter of credit amount based on what has been done and that the town accept the roads next month. Consensus of the Board was to consult with the Town Engineer on an appropriate amount to reimburse for shouldering materials. The Engineer should work with the Hurleys’ to reduce the letter of credit and allow final acceptance of the roads.
Water Softener discharge to drainage ditches in Camelback Farms Subdivision: Patricia Hurley
Pat complained of several property owners in Camelback Farms discharging water from water softeners into the drainage ditch. She stated this is eroding ditch lines and prevents the grass from growing. Board members explained this is permissible per State Ordinance. Property owners were allowed to downsize their septic systems if choosing this discharge method per State Sanitary Codes. The Town has no ordinance to prevent this.
Flooding issues: 111 S. Teut Road
Correspondence and pictures were presented to the Board regarding flooding that occurred on May 22nd and June 17th. The property owners assert the cause of this flooding is a new subdivision located across CTH W across from the Hitch ‘n Post. They requested the Town rectify this problem and fix any damages or cost incurred by the flood. Mike moved, 2nd by Gary to have the Town attorneye send a letter explaining this flooding was not caused by the Town of Rochester. Motion carried.
Consolidation Ruling; Department of Administration
Correspondence from the Department of Administration was reviewed. The ruling on consolidation came back negative. Consensus of the Board was to schedule a joint meeting with the Village of Rochester and Atty. John Hotvedt. In addition, Charter Town legislation should be looked into.
Drainage Pond Issues: 28403 Plank Road
The Clerk explained the owner of lot one on the Pizza development built a raised retention pond in an area designated as drainage swale on the Certified Survey Map. Pond walls exist in the form of raised burms. The slopes are steep and covered with weeds. The depth of the pond is unknown. The Building Inspector contacted lot one’s owner informing him a raised detention pond is not part of the drainage plan approved for this development. He was directed to restore the area within the drainage swale. The Building Inspector requested this contact be followed up with correspondence from the Town’s attorney. Gary moved, 2nd by Mike to have the Town Attorney send a letter addressing the issue. Motion carried.
Resolution #2-2004 approving and authorizing an application to the Board of Commissioners of Public lands, State of Wisconsin, for a loan of $52,542.00 to purchase an ambulance
Gary moved, 2nd by Paul to approve Resolution #2-2004 borrowing one-half the portion of costs to purchase a new rescue squad . Votes were: Gary: Aye; Paul: Aye; Mike: Aye. Motion carried.
Recommended amendments to Town of Rochester Code of Ordinances, Chapter 43 “Ponds”
Correspondence was presented from Crispell-Snyder suggesting several amendments to the Pond ordinance. Consensus of the Board was to have the engineer attend the next meeting for discussion.
Delinquent Personal Property Bills: American Monarch; Thomas Buse
Two delinquent personal property tax bills were presented: American Monarch: $76.26; and Thomas Buse: $1,128.49. Paul moved, 2nd by Gary to proceed with small claims court collection of the bills. Motion carried.
Operator’s License Application: Denette Verley (The Bunker)
Gary moved, 2nd by Mike to approve. Motion passed.
Paul moved, 2nd by Mike to adjourn at 10:10 p.m. Motion carried.
Respectfully submitted:
Betty J. Novy Clerk
July 21, 2004 SPECIAL BOARD MEETING 4:00 P.M.
Meeting was called to order at 33753 Academy Road, Rochester, Wisconsin, at 4:00 p.m. with Board members Gary Beck, Paul Beere and Mike Weinkauf present.
Betty Novy, Clerk; Jeff Nipple and Paul Schaefer, Engineers; Attorney John Hotvedt; and Jackie Busch, owner: 33753 Academy Road, were also present.
Jackie stated concerns regarding the depth and slope of her ditch as a result of the N. Honey Lake Road reconstruction project.
Discussion resulted in an agreement between Jackie Busch and the Town of Rochester with the following provisions:
The agreement was presented in written form by Attorney Hotvedt. Mike moved, 2nd by Paul to enter into the agreement and to effect said changes in the agreement. Motion carried.
Jackie Busch and Board members signed the agreement.
Additional items noted: An oak tree just south of the Busch’s property line will need to be trimmed to accommodate traffic on the widened road; asphalt will be flared around the end walls of the Busch’s culvert; and the right of way to the west of the intersection of N. Honey Lake Road and Academy should be cut and cleared of brush.
Respectfully submitted:
Betty J. Novy Clerk
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