Bayfield County, Wisconsin

Ashland – Bayfield Consolidated PSAP Board

The Ashland-Bayfield Consolidated PSAP Board will meet to discuss a 2026 budget amendment following the award of an Innovation Grant, a labor tracking system costing $5,000, and the authorization to search for a new PSAP Director. The meeting will be held in-person at the Bayfield County EOC.

• Discussion and possible action regarding 2026 budget amendment
• Discussion and possible action regarding labor tracking system ($5,000)
• Discussion regarding CAD updates
• Discussion regarding 2027 budget topics
• Discussion and possible action authorizing PSAP Director search

Board of Adjustment

The Bayfield County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on case #26-01B, where applicants Stephen Nold and Susan Lindahl seek a reduced shoreline setback of 35 feet (instead of the required 75 feet) to allow a driveway extension, a holding tank, and part of a new residence on a 0.87‑acre lot. After testimony, the board will deliberate and decide on the setback request. The meeting will also address approval of minutes from the February 26, 2026 meeting, discuss any unfinished work or pending cases, and consider motions to enter and later exit a closed session for legal counsel consultation.

• Public hearing on case #26-01B: request to reduce shoreline setback from 75 ft to 35 ft for driveway extension, holding tank, and residence (applicants Stephen Nold & Susan Lindahl).
• Approval of minutes from the February 26, 2026 Board of Adjustment meeting.
• Discussion of any unfinished work from past meetings and status report on pending cases.
• Motion to move into closed session to confer with legal counsel about litigation strategy.
• Motion to move out of closed session and reconvene in open session.

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for August 27, 2026, has been cancelled because no completed cases were received by the July 2, 2026 deadline. The Board will instead meet on July 30 and September 24, 2026.

• Meeting cancelled for August 27, 2026
• Next meetings scheduled for July 30, 2026
• Next meetings scheduled for September 24, 2026

University of Wisconsin Extension

The Bayfield County Agriculture and Extension Education Committee will consider several items, including approval of the May 13, 2026 meeting minutes and a budget update for 2026. Members will discuss the 2027 UW‑Extension budget and a possible staffing plan for 2027. An action item is the approval to move forward with the CANSKI Budget Amendment.

• Approval of minutes from the May 13, 2026 meeting (action item)
• 2026 UW‑Extension budget update (informational)
• Discussion of the 2027 UW‑Extension budget (possible action item)
• Approval to move forward the CANSKI Budget Amendment (action item)
• Discussion of UW‑Extension staffing possibilities for 2027 (possible action item)

Transportation Coordinating Committee

The Bayfield County Transportation Coordinating Committee will meet to review April 2026 meeting minutes and discuss member recruitment. The body will also review the status of 2026 projects.

• Review and approval of April 14, 2026, meeting minutes
• Discussion on member recruitment
• Status update on 2026 projects
• Notice of October 20, 2026, Public Hearing for 2027 s85.21 Specialized Transportation Assistance Program for Counties Grant Application

Planning & Zoning Committee (Minutes are included when Final has been added to the heading)

The Bayfield County Planning & Zoning Committee will hold a public hearing to consider conditional use requests for shipping containers and campground revisions. The committee will also discuss a proposed rewrite of the Zoning Code.

• Public hearing for Gerlach Entities LLC shipping container request
• Public hearing for Wilderness Inquiry campground revisions
• Public hearing for Talitha Goldammer campground revisions
• Discussion of Zoning Code Rewrite topics including data centers and solar systems
• Approval of previous minutes from June 18, 2026

County Board of Supervisors

The Bayfield County Board of Supervisors will hold a special meeting on July 15, 2026 to review three EMS service proposals received through an RFP. Supervisors will score each option—including Ashland Fire Department ($360 K‑$1.53 M), Essentia Health (~$990 K), and North Memorial Health ($1.7 M‑$2.4 M)—and may enter a closed session to discuss the proposals. The Board will identify one option to advance for public comment at meetings on July 22 and July 23, with a final decision expected at the July 28 regular board meeting.

• Review of three EMS proposals: Ashland Fire Dept (est. $360 K‑$1.53 M), Essentia Health (est. $990 K), North Memorial Health (est. $1.7 M‑$2.4 M)
• Supervisors will score each proposal using an evaluation matrix covering experience, coverage, coordination, staffing, finance, and quality
• Possible closed‑session deliberation on EMS proposals under Wis. Stat. § 19.85(1)(e)
• Selection of one proposal for public comment at July 22 (in‑person) and July 23 (virtual) meetings
• Final recommendation to be placed on the July 28 board agenda for possible action

Criminal Justice Council

The council will discuss the 2025 Dashboard document and review Department of Corrections processes. Members may vote to approve grant applications for the 2027 Treatment Alternatives and Diversion program and the Post-Charge Diversion Program.

• Proposed approval of 2027 WI DOJ Treatment Alternatives and Diversion grant application
• Proposed approval of 2027 WI DOJ Post-Charge Diversion Program grant application
• Motion to approve Emma Grove as council member and Vice Chair
• Review of 2025 Dashboard document
• Presentation on Disability Rights Wisconsin Victim Advocacy Program

Children's Community Options Program & Coordinated Services Team Advisory Committee

The Children’s Community Options Program & Coordinated Services Team Advisory Committee will consider adopting the May 12, 2026 meeting minutes and review the latest enrollment report for the Long Term Support program. Members will start reviewing the 2027 CCOP Plan, noting sections that require further drafting before the September 8 meeting and the October 1 submission deadline. The committee will also discuss the upcoming 2027 CST Workplan and application due August 7, and share informational updates about the Policy Academy relocation and potential state champion involvement.

• Review and possible adoption of May 12, 2026 meeting minutes
• Children’s Long Term Support program enrollment report: 60 enrolled, 4 referrals
• Begin review of 2027 CCOP Plan; identify sections needing drafting before Sep 8; plan due Oct 1
• 2027 CST Workplan and application due August 7
• Policy Academy moved from Red Cliff to Wausau area; consider inviting state champions to Nov 10 meeting

Forestry & Parks Committee

The Forestry & Parks Committee will discuss an internal wage analysis that recommends grade increases for three positions and reclassifying a forester, with an estimated cost of about $10,000. It will also review the draft 2027 budget, which proposes using $800,000 from the carbon account and a $600,000 transfer to offset an estimated $1.0 million deficit in timber sale revenue. Additional items include capital equipment purchases and a $90,000 increase for town road aids. The committee will consider two ten‑year temporary access permit renewal requests.

• Internal wage analysis recommends grade increases for Recreation Coordinator, Inventory and Analysis Forester, Assistant Administrator and reclassifies a forester as 2nd Assistant Administrator (≈ $10,000 cost)
• 2027 budget proposal to cover $1 million timber revenue shortfall with $800k from the carbon account and a $600k transfer from the carbon account
• Capital equipment purchases (mini‑excavator, skid steer, trailer, mulcher) total ≈ $170k, $119k funded from FCOR
• Increase town road aid funding to $90k total, $40k from FCOR
• Ten‑year temporary access permit renewal requests for Charles Sullivan and Donald & Nancy Wick

Tourism-Fair Committee

The committee will meet to discuss and potentially act on the 2027 budget proposal. Members will also review fairgrounds planning and specific building and grounds updates. The Tourism Director will provide a report on department goals and visitor data.

• Discussion and possible action on 2027 Budget Proposal
• Proposed Market Sale improvements to Swine and Beef Barn water system
• Status of Horse Stalls, Beef Barn electric, and Swine and Sheep Barn electric projects
• Market Sale lights and sound and connecting sound systems updates
• Review of social media analytics, visitor inquiry statistics, and sales tax revenue

County Board of Supervisors

The special board meeting will discuss several items, including a possible contract with the Bayfield County Sheriff Deputy Association, a land acquisition at 111 E 7th Street in Washburn, and a public‑private partnership with the cable company Norvado to expand broadband. The partnership resolution would authorize the county to contribute $5,000 in cash and provide easements and rights of way valued up to $10,000. The board may also consider a motion to enter a closed session for certain negotiations. The meeting will be held in person and via Microsoft Teams.

• Discussion and possible action on Sheriff Deputy Association union contract
• Discussion and possible action on land/property acquisition at 111 E 7th Street, Washburn
• Resolution 2026-69: public‑private partnership with Norvado, $5,000 cash contribution and up to $10,000 in easements/rights of way
• Possible motion to convene a closed session under Wis. Stat. §19.85(1)(e)

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee will review 2027 budget presentations from several departments and discuss the re-registration of county-owned mineral rights. The body will also consider actions on a 911 grant, human services reserves, and committee ordinances.

• Proposed increase of Human Services Risk Reserve from $635,000 to $1 million
• Resolution to accept an $81,580 Next Generation 9-1-1 GIS Grant
• Register of Deeds project requests: $3,960 for document server and up to $35,000 for mortgage scanning
• Discussion on whether to sell county mineral rights to current land owners
• Proposed incorporation of Ethics, Fraud Prevention, and Industrial Development Agency duties into the Executive Committee

Family & Behavioral Health Services Advisory Committee

The committee will review program reports and budget updates for Behavioral Health and Family Services. Discussions include requests for additional staffing and the presentation of 2025 CCS survey results.

• Request to Personnel Committee for additional CCS Staff
• Request to Personnel Committee for creation of a Lead CLTS SSC
• Review of 2025 CCS Survey Results
• Introduction of new staff: Ivy Ray (CPS Case Manager) and Caitlin Sullivan-Irvin (CLTS Support and Service Coordinator)
• Overview of Behavioral Health Workers' roles

The advisory committee voted to approve the April 8, 2026 minutes, and the motion was carried. No other formal actions or votes were recorded; the meeting consisted mainly of program reports, staffing updates, and discussion of upcoming events and needs.

• Approved April 8, 2026 minutes (motion carried)

Personnel Committee

The Bayfield County Personnel Committee will discuss 2027 health‑insurance plans, including a 17.4% premium increase that could raise county costs by $640,130. It will also consider a High‑Deductible Health Plan that adds $86,675 in premiums and possible Health Reimbursement Arrangement funding. Additional agenda items include 2027 department personnel proposals, a draft personnel‑committee ordinance, and amendments to the personnel policy.

• State Local Deductible Plan premium increase 17.4% → estimated county cost $640,130 for 2027
• High‑Deductible Health Plan adds $86,675 in premiums (≈3% increase) – $560k less than the above proposal
• Proposed Health Reimbursement Arrangement funding $387,000 could lower net cost increase to $280,175
• Amended personnel policy to expand 40‑hour work week and increase paid parental leave to 4 weeks
• Draft Personnel Committee ordinance (draft 2) to add infrequent assignments such as Ethics

Highway Committee

The Bayfield County Highway Committee will review the 2027 budget and discuss the impact of WisDOT State Municipal Maintenance Agreements on current Routine Maintenance Agreements. The meeting will also include a discussion on the Eagle Lake Bridge (CTH H) and updates on various county road projects.

• Approval of May 6, 2026 minutes
• 2027 Budget overview/discussion
• WisDOT State Municipal Maintenance Agreements discussion
• Eagle Lake Bridge (CTH H) Discussion
• Commissioner’s Report: CTH A, CTH M, RT Vision updates

County Board of Supervisors

The Bayfield County Board of Supervisors will meet to discuss and vote on budget amendments, a zoning change, and public safety cost recovery. The meeting will also include presentations on transit and broadband.

• Resolution 2026-63: Opioid Settlement Budget Amendment
• Resolution 2026-64: Transfer of Coastal Management Program Grant
• Ordinance 2026-08: Rezoning Heinicke Family Trust Property to R-1
• Resolution 2026-66: Budget Amendment for Courthouse and Highway Garage
• Public Safety Cost Recovery Ordinance 2026-09

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for June 25, 2026, has been cancelled. This is because no completed cases were received by the May 1, 2026 public hearing deadline.

Human Services Board

The Bayfield County Department of Human Services Board will review and approve the May 28, 2026 meeting minutes. It will open a public hearing for comments on the 2027 DHS budget and the county’s equal‑opportunity employment, service delivery, and language‑access policies. A program presentation will introduce the Behavioral Health team, followed by monthly section reports and a budget guidance memo for 2027.

• Review and approval of the May 28, 2026 meeting minutes
• Public hearing for comments on the 2027 DHS budget and equal‑opportunity policies
• Program presentation – Introduction to the Behavioral Health team
• Monthly section reports (Family Services, Support Services, Aging & Disability Services, Economic Support Services, Behavioral Health and Community Programs)
• 2027 budget guidance memo to department heads (May 29, 2026)

The Human Services Board approved the minutes from the May 28, 2026 meeting. The motion was made by Jeff Holte, seconded by Sue Rosa, and passed with all members in favor. No other formal actions or votes were recorded; remaining agenda items were informational updates and staff requests.

• Approved May 28, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Ashland – Bayfield Consolidated PSAP Board

The Ashland‑Bayfield Consolidated PSAP Board will discuss two draft amendments to Section 4 of the commission bylaws that would increase board membership from six to ten members, either by adding EMS and fire representatives or by adding county supervisors. The board will also review the 2026 budget and possible $121,281.80 of cost‑saving adjustments. A first draft of the 2027 budget will be examined, including IT upgrades, ECC computer hard‑drive replacements ($4,900 total), a spare workstation, and a geo‑diverse VPN connection.

• Proposed bylaw amendment to expand board to 10 members (two alternative structures)
• 2026 budget modification options totaling $121,281.80 (e.g., remove $50,000 land‑records item, cut Virtual Academy contract $3,700)
• First draft review of 2027 budget
• IT needs for 2027: time‑tracking/knowledge‑base system, ECC hard‑drive upgrades ($700 each, $4,900 total)
• Purchase of one spare ECC workstation and addition of a geo‑diverse VPN connection

The board approved the minutes from the May 19, 2026 meeting. A motion to retain the existing board makeup passed by verbal vote. The board also voted to move into a closed session at 11:15 a.m. Additional discussion covered budget adjustments and IT needs, with a decision to develop a central knowledge base for the Emergency Communications Center.

• Approved May 19, 2026 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Passed motion to keep board makeup unchanged (verbal vote)
• Voted to enter closed session at 11:15 a.m. (vote)
• Approved development of a central knowledge base for ECC admin tasks

Planning & Zoning Committee (Minutes are included when Final has been added to the heading)

The Bayfield County Planning and Zoning Committee will hold a public hearing and then discuss five specific land‑use applications, including a shipping container placement, a commercial‑to‑residential rezoning, a campground proposal, a child‑care expansion, and a subdivision plat review. After those items, the committee will address other business such as approval of prior minutes, discussion of a comprehensive zoning code rewrite, and the 2027 budget. Decisions, if any, will be subject to appeal to the Board of Adjustment within 30 days.

• Conditional use – placement of a 20’ x 8’ shipping container in Residential‑1 (R‑1) zone, Tax ID 19633 (owner Richard Tutewohl).
• Rezoning – change of Tax IDs 1639, 1640, and 1652 from Commercial (C) to Residential‑1 (R‑1) (Heinicke Family Trust).
• Conditional use – 50‑site public campground in Residential‑Recreational Business (R‑RB) zone, Tax IDs 39048‑39051 (JRT Property Management LLC).
• Special use – expansion of a child‑care center from 12 to 25 children in Residential‑1 (R‑1) zone, Tax ID 39273 (Kyle & Jordan Nelson).
• Subdivision plat – review and approval of a 1‑lot Certified Survey Map for Tax IDs 20205, 20204, and 20244 in Residential‑1 (R‑1) zone (Gregory & Christine Carrier et al.).

The committee approved a conditional use permit for Richard Tutewohl to place a 20’ × 8’ shipping container on Tax ID 19633, requiring an opaque vegetation screen and earth‑tone paint. It forwarded the Heinicke Family Trust’s zoning district map amendment request to the County Board with a recommendation for approval. The committee postponed the JRT Property Management 50‑site campground permit to the July 16, 2026 meeting. It also approved a special use permit for a child‑care center expansion (Tax ID 39273), approved a certified survey map combining parcels 20204, 20205, and 20244, and adopted the May 21, 2026 minutes.

• Approved conditional use permit for shipping container on Tax ID 19633 (5‑0)
• Forwarded Heinicke Family Trust zoning district map amendment to County Board with recommendation for approval (5‑0)
• Postponed JRT Property Management 50‑site campground permit to July 16, 2026 (5‑0)
• Approved special use permit B for child‑care center expansion on Tax ID 39273 (5‑0)
• Approved certified survey map for parcels 20204, 20205, and 20244 (5‑0)
• Approved minutes from May 21, 2026 meeting (5‑0)

Sheriff's Committee Meeting

The committee will review department updates and discuss 2027 budget directions for the Sheriff's Office, Emergency Management, and Veterans Services. The meeting also includes an update on the EMS project and process.

• 2027 budget ideas and feedback for Veterans Services Office
• 2027 budget ideas and feedback for Emergency Management
• 2027 budget ideas and feedback for Sheriff's Office
• EMS project and process update

Executive Committee

The Bayfield County Executive Committee will discuss several budget and policy items, including a proposed fee schedule update that would cap residential land‑use permit fees at $1,000. Other topics include extending a temporary zoning scanning position, a possible increase to the Human Services Risk Reserve, and decisions on a child‑care payment for Washburn Schools and land‑sale auction bids. The meeting also features reports on the county budget, housing authority, economic development, and public safety cost recovery.

• Fee schedule update: cap residential land‑use permit fees at $1,000, reducing projected revenue by about $95,336
• Zoning scanning position extension: add 560 hours through Sep 30, estimated cost $12,051 (contracted cost $156,500)
• Washburn Schools child‑care program payment: approve $20,000 for the 2026‑2027 year
• Human Services Risk Reserve policy: propose raising balance goal to $1 million
• Land Sale Auction parcels: discuss bids that may fall below the reserve amount

Health Board

The Bayfield County Board of Health will elect a chair and vice‑chair, review the second‑quarter budget, and consider a budget amendment tied to the opioid settlement. Additional items include an overview of health department programs, community wellness grant awardees, and staffing updates.

• Election of Chairperson
• Election of Vice Chairperson
• Overview and discussion of second‑quarter budget
• Presentation and discussion of new opioid settlement programming
• Discussion and possible action regarding opioid settlement 2026 budget amendment

Forestry & Parks Committee

The Forestry and Parks Committee will discuss taking over as the primary applicant for a $180,000 Coastal Management Program grant to help acquire the Maxwell Property. The body will also review timber sale contracts and temporary access permit renewals.

• Resolution to accept transfer of $180,000 Coastal Management Program grant from Ashland County
• Resolution to participate in Land and Water Conservation Fund grant for $193,312 Big Rock Campground project
• Awarding of contracts for 2026 spring timber sale re-offers
• Ten-year temporary access permit renewals for Joan Bratley, Luke Wiitala, Angela Dougherty, and Mathew Ostrander
• Review of Trestle Bridge Repair RFP following zero contractor attendance at first pre-bid

The committee approved the May 11 meeting minutes and unanimously renewed four temporary access permits. It also adopted an updated resolution for participation in the Land and Water Conservation Fund grant program. Finally, the committee voted to forward a resolution that would make Bayfield County the primary applicant for a Wisconsin Coastal Management Program grant and amend the 2026 Forestry and Parks budget to the full County Board.

• Approved May 11 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of four temporary access permits (Bratley, Wiitala, Dougherty, Ostrander) (unanimous)
• Approved updated LWCF grant program resolution (unanimous)
• Forwarded resolution to County Board for primary applicant status on Coastal Management grant and 2026 budget amendment (unanimous)

Executive Committee

The Bayfield County Executive Committee will discuss the 2027 budget, reports from the Housing Authority, Economic Development, and other departments, and several proposed actions. Key items include a fee schedule update for residential permits, extension of a temporary zoning scanning position, and a public safety cost recovery ordinance. The committee will also consider the Washburn Schools child‑care payment, risk reserve policy changes, and land‑sale auction bids.

• Resolution to cap residential land‑use permit fees at $1,000, potentially reducing revenue by $95,336
• Extension of the Zoning Office scanning position for 560 hours at an estimated cost of $12,051
• Public Safety Cost Recovery Ordinance to recover county costs for extraordinary public safety services
• Approval of $20,000 payment for the Washburn Schools child‑care program for county employees
• Discussion of land‑sale auction parcels and possible acceptance of bids below the reserve amount

Personnel Committee

The committee will consider policy changes to workplace flexibility, including maternity/paternity leave and work hours. Members will also discuss the 2027 personnel budget and the extension of a temporary zoning scanning position.

• Proposed increase of paid maternity/paternity leave from 2 to 4 weeks (estimated $9k cost)
• Proposed addition of one day of funeral leave for brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law (estimated $1k cost)
• Proposed extension of temporary Zoning Office scanning position through September 30 (approx. 560 additional hours)
• Discussion of 2027 Personnel Budget and estimated health insurance premium increases of 8.5-20%
• Proposed ordinance clarifying the duties and authority of the Personnel Committee

Tribal County Relations Committee

The committee will review updates on the county zoning code rewrite and the 2027 budget process, which prioritizes housing and EMS. Discussions will include a new RFP for the Countywide EMS SafetyNet program and a law enforcement agreement update.

• Zoning code rewrite update with two new sections available for comment
• RFP for Countywide EMS SafetyNet program to provide supplemental assistance
• 2027 Budget process with housing and EMS identified as top priorities
• Tribal County Law Enforcement Agreement update for 2027
• Discussion of Land Memorandum of Understanding and housing collaborations

Land Council

The Bayfield County Land Council will elect a chair and vice‑chair, approve the November 18 2025 meeting minutes, receive updates on GIS, county imagery, orthophotography and other land‑record projects, and discuss spatial data standards, title research issues, inter‑department coordination, open‑data tools, and records preservation priorities.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Approval of minutes from November 18, 2025
• Updates on current GIS and land records projects, including county imagery and orthophotography
• Discussion of spatial data standards and title research gray‑area ownership situations
• Discussion of records preservation and digitization priorities

Human Services Board

The Bayfield County Human Services Board will review and possibly approve the April 23 meeting minutes, hear a presentation on the Children’s Long‑Term Support program, receive monthly section and financial reports, and vote on recommended appointments to two advisory committees. The meeting also includes scheduling future board dates, including a public hearing on the 2027 DHS budget.

• Consider appointment of Jacqueline Rae‑Ledin to the Aging and Disability Advisory Committee
• Consider appointments of Carol Radtke, Marilyn Jenkins, and Sandy Galer to the Nutrition Advisory Committee
• Program presentation – Children’s Long‑Term Support (CLTS) overview by Hayley Weyers
• Monthly section reports from Support Services, Aging & Disability Services, Economic Support Services, Behavioral Health and Community Programs, and Family Services
• Future meeting dates, including a public hearing on the 2027 DHS budget on June 25, 2026

The Bayfield County Human Services Board voted to approve the minutes from the April 23, 2026 meeting. The motion was made by Milanowski, seconded by Rosa, and passed with all members in favor. No other formal actions or votes were recorded during the May 28, 2026 session.

• Approved April 23, 2026 meeting minutes (all in favor)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for May 28, 2026 was cancelled because no completed cases were received by the April 2, 2026 public hearing deadline. No agenda items will be considered at this time. The Board’s next meeting remains set for June 25, 2026.

County Board of Supervisors

The Board will conduct a 2027 budget priority planning session followed by a regular meeting. Members will consider several budget amendments, grant authorizations, and a public safety cost recovery ordinance.

• Authorization of a $2,175,500 grant for the FY 2026 Daily Use Radio Program
• Budget amendment of $74,000 for a lower-level bathroom repair project
• Approval of a $80,000 WEDC Housing Development Fellowship grant and contract
• Authorization of $142,000 in Non-State Grants for the Iron River Highway Garage and Courthouse Dome projects
• Proposed $250,000 Energy Innovation Grant application for an electric vehicle pilot

The Bayfield County Board approved the April 21, 2026 minutes and adopted several recognitions, including the AARP Volunteer Tax Program and month designations for affordable housing and Pride. It removed the Public Safety Cost Recovery Ordinance from the consent agenda and approved the remaining consent agenda items. The board also approved all six WCA platform resolutions in a single vote and appointed three members to the Board of Adjustment.

• Approved April 21, 2026 meeting minutes (13-0)
• Approved Resolution 2026-40 recognizing AARP Volunteer Tax Program (13-0)
• Approved Resolution 2026-41 recognizing Nicole Solheim (13-0)
• Approved Resolution 2026-42 recognizing May as National Affordable Housing Month (13-0)
• Approved Resolution 2026-43 recognizing June as Pride Month (13-0)
• Approved three appointments to the Board of Adjustment (13-0)
• Removed Public Safety Cost Recovery Ordinance from consent agenda (13-0)
• Approved all six WCA Platform Resolutions (11-2)

Land Conservation Committee

The Bayfield County Land & Water Conservation Committee will elect a chair and vice chair, hear agency updates, and discuss several items. Key topics include a review of the Captive Cervid Ordinance, a review of the 2026/2027 budget, and updates on specific conservation projects. The meeting also includes public comment and member updates.

• Election of Land Conservation Committee Chair
• Election of Land Conservation Committee Vice Chair
• Captive Cervid Ordinance Review
• 2026/2027 Budget Review
• Mountain Rd – Siskiwit River Culvert Replacement Project update

Traffic Safety Committee

The Bayfield County Traffic Safety Commission will approve the minutes from the February 19, 2026 meeting, hear public input, and receive reports from WI DOT/BOTS and the county traffic safety coordinator. The commission will discuss a possible action to support a financial request for acquiring and installing speed display sings in local municipalities. The meeting will conclude with a member report and schedule the next meeting for August 20, 2026.

• Approve minutes of the February 19, 2026 meeting
• Public input session
• WI DOT/BOTS/Chem Test Section presentation by Amy Heizler
• Discussion of financial request for acquisition and installation of speed display sings
• Report by Wisconsin DOT Traffic Safety Coordinator

Planning & Zoning Committee (Minutes are included when Final has been added to the heading)

The Bayfield County Planning and Zoning Committee will review new business items, including a CSM approval for a land division that crosses an exterior boundary line of a recorded subdivision in a Residential-1 (R-1) district (Tax ID 4310). They will also discuss a Special Use‑B request for a hobby farm with six horses and one steer in a Forestry-1 (F-1) district (Tax ID 2742). Additional agenda items include discussion of the fee schedule, a comprehensive zoning code rewrite (campgrounds and residential classification list), and routine items such as approval of prior minutes and the monthly budget report.

• CSM approval for land division crossing exterior boundary line of recorded subdivision, Residential-1 (R-1) zoning, Tax ID 4310
• Special Use‑B request for hobby farm with 6 horses and 1 steer in Forestry-1 (F-1) zoning, Tax ID 2742
• Discussion and possible action regarding fee schedule
• Discussion and possible action regarding comprehensive zoning code rewrite (campgrounds, residential classification list)
• Approval of previous minutes (April 16, 2026) and monthly report/budget

The Planning & Zoning Committee elected Charlie Ray as Chair and Jeff Holte as Vice‑Chair. It approved a Certified Survey Map for Tax ID 4310 and a Special Use B permit for a hobby farm in the Barnes area, both unanimously. The committee agreed to forward the residential permit‑fee cap proposal to the County Board for Executive Committee review. It also directed staff to incorporate campground ordinance comments and add Agricultural (A‑1) districts for campgrounds in the next draft.

• Elected Charlie Ray as Chair (5‑0)
• Elected Jeff Holte as Vice‑Chair (5‑0)
• Approved Certified Survey Map for Tax ID 4310 (5‑0)
• Approved Special Use B permit for hobby farm (5‑0)
• Approved minutes from April 16, 2026 meeting (5‑0)
• Agreed to forward residential fee‑cap proposal to County Board
• Directed staff to add campground comments to ordinance draft
• Supported adding Agricultural (A‑1) district for campgrounds

Aquatic Invasive Species Committee

The Bayfield County Aquatic Invasive Species Committee will meet on May 20, 2026 to consider swearing in new members and to approve minutes from previous meetings. The committee will discuss grant updates, including LMPN/AIS #11 and Clean Boats Clean Waters‑Iron River. It will also consider possible actions on the purple loosestrife beetle project at the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center, the Iron River yellow iris grant, and the Northwest Regional Planning Commission 5‑County Water Resource Plan.

• Possible action: Swearing in new County AIS Committee members
• Approval of minutes from 08-20-2025 and 11-19-2025
• Grant updates/discussion: LMPN/AIS #11, Clean Boats Clean Waters‑Iron River, Headwaters to Coast
• Discussion/Possible action: Purple loosestrife beetle project at Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center
• Discussion/Possible action: Headwaters to Coast grant – Iron River yellow iris next steps

Ashland – Bayfield Consolidated PSAP Board

The Ashland‑Bayfield Consolidated PSAP Board of Commissioners meeting on May 19, 2026 will discuss the 2026‑2027 budget and a budget amendment related to an Innovation Grant. The amendment proposes a state Innovation Grant of $1,554,050 total ($775,025 per county) that would reimburse 25 % of each county’s 2025 contribution levels, approximately $177,000 per year for five years. The adopted 2026 budget is $1,640,869, which is $86,819 higher than the prior budget and will require cuts to meet the grant’s expenditure limits. The agenda also includes election of chair and vice‑chair, public comment, approval of prior meeting minutes, and a closed‑session discussion of staffing arrangements.

• Budget amendment for Innovation Grant – $1,554,050 total, $775,025 per county
• Adopted 2026 budget of $1,640,869, requiring $86,819 in cuts
• Election of chair and vice‑chair for the Board
• Public comment limited to 3 minutes per person, 15 minutes total
• Closed‑session discussion of staffing arrangements

The board unanimously elected Ron Sztyndor as chair of the PSAP commission. The board unanimously elected Larry Fickbohm as vice‑chair. The board approved the minutes from the March 17, 2026 meeting. The board voted to table discussion of a budget amendment for an innovation grant until the June 2026 meeting.

• Elected Ron Sztyndor as PSAP commission chair (unanimous)
• Elected Larry Fickbohm as PSAP commission vice‑chair (unanimous)
• Approved March 17, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled budget amendment discussion until June 2026 (unanimous)

Aging & Disability Advisory Committee

The Aging & Disability Advisory Committee will meet to discuss the appointment of a new candidate and review previous meeting minutes. The committee will also receive program reports on human services, meal updates, and caregiver support.

• Possible action on new ADAC candidate Jacqueline Rae Ledin
• Review of December 9, 2025 and February 24, 2026 meeting minutes
• Updates on Congregate Meals and Home Delivered Meals
• Reports on Specialized Transportation and Caregiver Support Programs
• Updates on health programs including Strong Bodies in Port Wing and Tai Ji Quan in Drummond, Cable, and Washburn/Bayfield

Ashland – Bayfield Consolidated PSAP Board

The board will review the 2026 budget performance and discuss the 2027 budget. It will consider a budget amendment that would apply Innovation Grant funds reimbursing each county for 25% of their 2025 contribution—approximately $177,000 per county per year. The meeting will also cover commission operations and call statistics.

• Review of commission operations (Item 5)
• Call statistics presentation (Item 6)
• Discussion of the 2027 budget (Item 7)
• Budget amendment for Innovation Grant – $177k per county per year, $1,554,050 total for 2026 (Item 8)
• Approval of March 17, 2026 meeting minutes (Item 4)

Sheriff's Committee Meeting

The Bayfield County Sheriff's Committee will approve the April 27 meeting minutes and review the Child Support Office budget. Emergency Management will recap the May 6 natural gas leak and provide an update on the county‑wide EMS RFP process. Members will discuss the WISCOM Grant and consider possible action on it. The meeting also includes a Sheriff's Office update and a closed‑session for personnel matters.

• Approve April 27, 2026 meeting minutes
• Review Child Support Office budget and performance measures
• Recap May 6 natural gas leak and evacuation
• Update on EMS project/process and upcoming RFP
• Discussion and possible action on WISCOM Grant

The committee approved the minutes from the April 27, 2026 meeting. It voted to recommend that the full county board accept the $2,195,900 WISCOM grant and spend roughly $320,000 of it in 2026, with the balance to be used in 2027. The committee also expressed support for pursuing construction of a fence at the Bayfield Tower site.

• Approved April 27, 2026 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Recommended acceptance of $2,195,900 WISCOM grant and allocation of $320,000 for 2026 (motion carried)
• Supported pursuing construction of a fence at Bayfield Tower site (no vote recorded)

Executive Committee

The Bayfield County Executive Committee will discuss and possibly act on several budget amendments and ordinances, including a Public Safety Cost Recovery ordinance, a Register of Deeds budget amendment, and an $80,000 Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation grant for a Housing Development Fellow with a partnership contract. Additional items include a $100,000 increase to the 2026 CheqBUILT allocation, a tower request on county forest land in the Town of Barnes, and a $3,774 HR office expansion contingency. The meeting will also feature financial reports, a windstorm and gas‑line incident recap, and may move certain matters into closed session as required.

• Discussion and possible action on Public Safety Cost Recovery Ordinance
• Register of Deeds budget amendment to allocate $1,350 for office supplies
• WEDC Key Strategic Partnership Grant Budget Amendment: $80,000 Housing Development Fellow contract
• CheqBUILT budget amendment increasing 2026 allocation by $100,000
• Tower request on county forest property in the Town of Barnes (WISCOM and AT&T negotiations)

Nutrition Advisory Council

The Bayfield County Nutrition Advisory Council will meet to review meeting minutes, discuss new candidates for the council, and review updates on congregate and home-delivered meal programs. The meeting will be held at Barnes Town Hall with remote access available.

• Review of February 24, 2026, Joint (ADAC) and (NAC) Meeting Minutes
• Discussion of new NAC candidates: Sandy Galer (Port Wing), Marilyn Jenkins (Cable), Carol Radtke (Washburn)
• Congregate Meals Update: $2,500.00 donation from Cornucopia Community Members
• Home Delivered Meals Update: New Nutrition Assessment Tool
• Discussion of Suggested Contribution Increase (no action at this time)

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee will discuss and possibly act on several budget amendments, including a public safety cost recovery ordinance, a Register of Deeds amendment, a WEDC housing grant amendment, wage‑scale adjustments, and CheqBUILT funding. A major item is the review of the 2026 capital projects budget, covering HS Bathrooms, Sheriff Roof, Arganbright Road, Iron River Garage, and Courthouse improvements. The committee will also receive reports on EMS, financials, recent windstorm and gas line incidents, and other departmental updates.

• Discussion and possible action on Public Safety Cost Recovery Ordinance
• Discussion and possible action on Register of Deeds Budget Amendment
• Discussion and possible action on WEDC Key Strategic Partnership Grant Budget Amendment for Housing Development Fellow (contract approval)
• Discussion and possible action on Wage‑Scale Budget Amendment to retroactively increase wages for 23 employees, costing about $38,000 (approximately $44,000 with FICA and WRS)
• Discussion and possible action on 2026 Capital Projects budget, including HS Bathrooms ($40,000 budget, $100,000 bid) and other major projects

University of Wisconsin Extension

The Bayfield County Agriculture and Extension Education Committee will elect a chair and vice‑chair, approve the March 11, 2026 meeting minutes, and receive a budget update for UW‑Extension 2026. The committee will discuss the UW‑Extension 2027 budget and consider moving forward with the Hazelnut Accelerator Grant 2025 budget amendment. An introduction of a new extension educator and staff reports will also be presented.

• Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair (action item)
• Approval of minutes from the March 11, 2026 meeting (action item)
• 2026 UW‑Extension budget update
• Discussion of the 2027 UW‑Extension budget
• Approval to move forward with the Hazelnut Accelerator Grant 2025 budget amendment (action item)

Children's Community Options Program & Coordinated Services Team Advisory Committee

The Children’s Community Options Program & Coordinated Services Team Advisory Committee will meet on May 12, 2026 in Washburn, Wisconsin, with in‑person and remote options. The agenda includes discussion and possible action to adopt the March 10, 2026 meeting minutes, a report on Children’s Long Term Support enrollment (62 enrolled, 2 referrals), and updates on leadership changes and participation in the State’s first Children’s System of Care Policy Academy. No other decisions are listed.

• Review and possible adoption of March 10, 2026 meeting minutes
• Children’s Long Term Support program enrollment report – 62 enrolled, 2 referrals
• Announcements of leadership changes
• Participation in the State’s first Children’s System of Care Policy Academy and upcoming self‑assessment tool
• Next meeting scheduled for July 14, 2026

The advisory committee voted to approve the March 10, 2026 meeting minutes, with all members in favor. No other formal actions were taken. The minutes noted recent leadership changes and upcoming meeting dates.

• Approved March 10, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Forestry & Parks Committee

The Bayfield County Forestry and Parks Committee will elect a chairperson and vice‑chairperson. It will review the results of the 2026 spring timber sale bid opening and consider awarding contracts. The board will examine town road aid requests and recommended funding levels. A resolution to support funding of the Knowles‑Nelson Stewardship Program will also be considered.

• Election of Forestry and Parks Committee Chairperson
• Election of Forestry and Parks Committee Vice‑Chairperson
• Discussion and action on awarding contracts from the 2026 spring timber sales
• Discussion and possible action on 2026 Town Road Aid funding requests
• Resolution to support funding of the Knowles‑Nelson Stewardship Program

The committee elected Fred Strand as chair and Steve Sandstrom as vice‑chair. It approved the April 13 meeting minutes, the 2025 Accomplishment Report (with a pending correction), and the recommended 2026 town road aid levels. Members accepted the high bids from the 2026 spring timber sale and ordered the 11 unsold tracts to be re‑offered. A resolution urging state funding for the Knowles‑Nelson Stewardship Program was forwarded to the County Board.

• Fred Strand elected Chair (unanimous yes)
• Steve Sandstrom elected Vice‑Chair (unanimous yes)
• April 13 meeting minutes approved (Rosa abstained)
• Accept high bids and re‑offer 11 remaining timber sale tracts (unanimous yes)
• Approve recommended 2026 Town Road Aid levels (unanimous yes)
• Approve 2025 Accomplishment Report with pending correction (unanimous yes)
• Forward Knowles‑Nelson Stewardship Program funding resolution to Executive Committee and County Board (unanimous yes)

Personnel Committee

The committee will discuss possible actions on the compensation study adjustments, including moving 23 county employees to the next step on the new wage schedule, which would cost about $38,000 (approximately $44,000 with FICA and WRS). It will also consider an amendment to the Personnel Committee ordinance and review the April 2026 financial, human resources, and workforce reports. The meeting is informational; the County Board will not take formal action.

• Compensation adjustment for 23 employees – $38,000 (or $44,000 with taxes) to move to next step
• Amendment to the Personnel Committee ordinance to retain separate executive and personnel committees
• Review of personnel financial report, human resources report, and workforce report
• Discussion of on‑call policy and union negotiations (closed session)
• Public comment period

County Board of Supervisors

The Board will discuss and potentially act on an amended intergovernmental agreement to create the Ashland and Bayfield Counties 9-1-1 Public System Answering Point (PSAP) Commission. This restructuring is intended to meet Wisconsin Department of Revenue requirements for innovation grant eligibility.

• Proposed Amended and Restated Intergovernmental Agreement for the Ashland and Bayfield Counties 9-1-1 PSAP Commission
• Potential innovation grant funding of approximately $177,000 annually for Bayfield County over 5 years (totaling $885,000)

The Board considered an amended and restated intergovernmental agreement to create the Ashland and Bayfield Counties 9-1-1 Public System Answering Point (PSAP) Commission. Supervisor Crandall moved to approve the agreement, and Supervisor Holte seconded. The motion passed with an 11‑0 vote; two supervisors were absent. The meeting was adjourned at 4:06 p.m.

• Approved Amended and Restated Intergovernmental Agreement for Ashland and Bayfield Counties 9-1-1 PSAP Commission (11-0)

Highway Committee

The Bayfield County Highway Committee will hold elections for Chair and Vice Chair and appoint an Executive Committee member. It will approve the minutes from the March 4, 2026 meeting and audit and approve vouchers. The committee will receive a department overview, a commissioner’s report on 2026 project status, equipment updates, and spring training, and will accept public comment and committee input.

• Elect Chair and Vice Chair
• Appoint Executive Committee member
• Approve minutes of March 4, 2026 meeting
• Audit and approve vouchers
• Commissioner’s report on 2026 project review and status

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for April 30, 2026, has been cancelled because no completed cases were received by the March 6, 2026 public hearing deadline. The next meeting is reserved for May 28, 2026.

• Meeting cancelled for April 30, 2026
• Next meeting reserved for May 28, 2026
• No completed cases received by March 6 deadline

Sheriff's Committee Meeting

The committee will review first-quarter budgets and hold discussions regarding the 2027 budgets for the Sheriff's Office, Emergency Management, and Veterans Service Office. Members will also elect a committee chair and vice-chair.

• Election of committee chair and vice-chair
• 2027 Budget discussions for Sheriff's Office, Emergency Management, and Veterans Service Office
• Emergency Management update on April 17, 2026 storm
• Discussion and possible action regarding public comment sign-in form
• Review of first quarter budgets for three departments

The committee elected Marty Milanowski as chair and Larry Fickbohm as vice‑chair by verbal vote. The March 16, 2026 meeting minutes were approved, also by verbal vote. The board expressed support for using the attached public‑comment sign‑in form, with an online‑attendance suggestion. No other formal actions were taken.

• Marty Milanowski elected chair (verbal vote)
• Larry Fickbohm elected vice‑chair (verbal vote)
• Approved March 16, 2026 meeting minutes (verbal vote)
• Board supported use of public‑comment sign‑in form (verbal vote)