P. Endres called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
ertification that the open meeting requirement was met. The meeting continued with introductions of the Finance Committee, and the Administrative Coordinator.
G. Wiegand presented information on departmental expenses, revenues, and levy history. He then reviewed the implications of reduced revenues, increased expenses.
Tom Kriegl, a member of the Finance Committee, spoke on his own behalf. Mentioned that dollars need to be viewed in light of services offered. He opposes a legislative imposed tax freeze on the county because local people and local officials should decide if local taxes are raised or lowered (along with the resulting impact on services). The tax freeze could hurt elderly on fixed incomes much more than it will help. If the legislature and governor would reduce the cost of corrections to Minnesota's level, at least a half billion dollars could be saved annually.
Audrey Parker - Increase in Planning and Zoning personnel was noted. Would like to see department reduced.
Peter Murray - Spoke regarding the solid waste site, indicated that the citizens of the county did not want this. Government employees get 100% of health care paid. Mentioned that school districts, etc. have been "crying wolf", asking for increased tax levy through referendums. Questioned source of fund balance. Eliminate excess personnel.
Herb Messer - Thanked Finance for the money spent on the County Fair.
Donna Nuewirth - Talked about benefits of Extension programs.
William Stehling - Trustee from Sauk City. Asked that Committee consider the costs of the landfill. Purchase of Development Rights was mentioned as a tool of Smart Growth, acknowledged role of Planning and Zoning in assisting towns and other municipalities. Noted that Planning and Zoning was necessary to achieve a good quality of life in Sauk County.
Jo Zipsie - Thanked Finance for support to public libraries. Elaborated on benefits of the Library system.
Warren Trager - Wisconsin is one of the highest taxed states (comes in around 20th). Argued for across the board cuts throughout the county. Spoke against purchase of development rights. Cut and keep taxes in line.
Bill Weitzel - Concern over understanding of tax code by county supervisors. Discussed that cuts are necessary.
Wendy Carlson - Spoke on behalf of 4H and County Extension. Asked that cuts be spread out across the board. 4H has been important to their family, and beneficial to the children. Sauk County Fair is a real benefit to the county.
Debra Cork - Spoke on behalf of 4H, and benefits to the children.
Heather Dippel - Spoke in regard to 4H and Extension and the benefits gained from participation.
Marcus Gumz - Manage, don't overtax the people. Don't fritter away tax revenue.
Andrea Lombard - County Board Supervisor. Urges Finance to cut or change programs rather than impose additional burden on household incomes. Taxes risen at every level. Keep levy at current level.
P. Endres asked if there was any further comments. Seeing none the meeting was adjourned.