Finance Committee


DATE: Thursday, March 22, 2007
PLACE:

Room B30
West Square Building
Baraboo WI

Members present: Marty Krueger, Joan Fordham, William F. Wenzel, Tom Kriegl

Others present: Kerry Beghin, Kathy Schauf, Dale Jaedike, numerous representatives of area units of governments, multiple County department representatives

Vice-Chairperson Kriegl called the meeting to order and certification of Open Meeting compliance was given at 6:20 p.m.

The agenda was approved on a motion by Wenzel, second by Fordham, and a unanimous vote of the Committee.

Introductions were made of the Committee and audience members in attendance. County Board Chairman Krueger made opening remarks and described the County's wish to gather input from area governmental units.

Assemblywoman Sheryl Albers presented initiatives being pursued at the state level.

Kathy Schauf, Administrative Coordinator, discussed limits in effect for Sauk County for 2008, trends, and economic indicators.

Health Care Center - Items of discussion included bed tax, the timeline for project development and construction, and energy efficiency.

Purchase of Development Rights - The concept and goals of PDR's were discussed, in terms of farmland preservation and planned development. Problems include difficulty in valuing development rights. Continued funding was of concern; about $800,000 is remaining from the Highway 12 expansion funds.

Comprehensive Planning - Should encompass intelligent growth. The importance of time spent developing plans should be emphasized by units of government following their plans. The relationship between comprehensive plans and planning ordinances was discussed.

Clean Sweep - The majority of those present thought there should be a clean sweep in 2007, with those present in favor of helping with organization, funding and promotion. There is no longer dedicated staff at the landfill. There is concern about special waste disposal, such as computer equipment, electronics, and drugs. Representatives from the City of Reedsburg indicated they may be able to assist with financing from their recycling funds.

County-Owned Property - An inventory of County property is being developed. Some feel that the County should not be in the property management business without there being a documented public purpose. Property to host the Health Care Center was discussed. Community forest lands were also discussed.

Roads - Complimented the County for good work on winter maintenance and road maintenance.

Aging & Disability Center - Trish Vandre, Commission on Aging Director, described that this new program adds layers of service for the disabled and aging. Emphasis will be on long-term care management and prevention.

Sheriff Services - Opening of Unit A of the jail was discussed. Differences of net revenue or loss projections exist.

The importance of user fees was emphasized.

Motion by Fordham, second by Wenzel to adjourn the meeting.
Motion carried.

Respectfully submitted: William F. Wenzel, Finance Committee Secretary