Lake Geneva public meetings in 2024
257 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District Board of Directors is meeting for a special session. The main item is a motion to enter closed session to review and negotiate the executive director's annual contract, citing competitive or bargaining reasons. The board will also take public comments before adjourning; no City Council action will be taken.
- Closed session under Wis. Stat. sec. 19.85(1)(e) for executive director annual review/contract negotiations
- Motion to reopen session after closed deliberations
- Public comments from the Board of Directors
Lake Geneva Economic Development Corporation
The Lake Geneva Economic Development Corporation board will meet to approve minutes from October, review financial reports including bills and a $5,000 donation to local charities, and receive updates on the Mashtun Brewery purchase and long-term projects. The meeting is scheduled for December 19 at the Harbor Shores Hotel.
- Approve $5,000 donation split among YMCA, Time is Now, and Lake Geneva Food Pantry
- Review and approve bills for payment
- Mashtun Brewery purchase update
- Approve minutes of October 2024 meeting
- Discuss long-term projects
Cemetery Board
The Lake Geneva Cemetery Board will discuss and recommend updates to cemetery pricing, review monthly financial and staff liaison reports, and address computer and internet service issues at Oak Hill Cemetery. The board will also consider how to assist Parks and Public Works until a Park Director is hired.
- Review updated cemetery pricing
- Discuss computer and internet service at Oak Hill Cemetery
- Review monthly Comptroller Financial Report
- Review City Staff Liaison Monthly Report
- Assist Parks and Public Works until Park Director is hired
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and recommend action on public event permits, the Sunday parking program, and items approved by the Piers, Harbors, & Lakefront Committee. The committee will also review and present accounts totaling $950,269.21 in pre-paid and regular checks.
- Public Event Permit for Lakeland Community Church’s Church in the Park on July 6, 2025
- Geneva Lake Seawall Replacement Project bid at $131,028.20 from CK Contractors
- Gage Marine Pier and Buoy Service Contract for 2025-2027
- Fee schedule increases for Annual West End Pier Slip, Lagoon Slip, Buoy, Dingy, Kayak, and Paddleboard Rack Leases
- Accounts presented: $392,935.92 in pre-paid checks and $557,333.29 in regular checks
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee approved the City of Lake Geneva fee schedule increases for annual West End Pier Slip, Lagoon Slip, Buoy, Dingy, Kayak, and Paddleboard Rack Leases (3-1). They also approved a $131,028.20 seawall replacement contract, a Gage Marine pier and buoy service contract for 2025-2027, and extended the Sunday Parking Program expiration to March 1, 2025. The committee approved pre-paid checks of $392,935.92 and regular checks of $557,333.29.
- Approved fee schedule increases for pier, buoy, dingy, kayak, and paddleboard rack leases (3-1)
- Approved Geneva Lake Seawall Replacement Project Alt Bid 1 from CK Contractors for $131,028.20
- Approved Gage Marine Pier and Buoy Service Contract for 2025-2027
- Extended Sunday Parking Program expiration from Dec 31, 2024 to Mar 1, 2025
- Approved pre-paid checks totaling $392,935.92
- Approved regular checks totaling $557,333.29
- Approved public event permit for Lakeland Community Church's Church in the Park on July 6, 2025
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council is holding a special meeting to discuss and potentially act on two BID board reappointments, then enter closed session to discuss City Administrator recruitment and an Emergency Services Agreement with the Town of Linn. Public comments are limited to agenda items, excluding public hearings.
- Reappointment of Janine Osborne to the BID, term expiring January 1, 2027
- Reappointment of Jessica Alethea Salgado to the BID, term expiring January 1, 2027
- Closed session: City Administrator recruitment
- Closed session: Emergency Services Agreement between Town of Linn and City of Lake Geneva for term extension
Police and Fire Commission
The Police and Fire Commission will hold a special meeting to enter closed session to deliberate a staffing agreement between the Lake Geneva Fire Department and the Town of Linn. After closed session, the commission may take action on the discussed items. No formal action by the City Council is expected.
- Closed session to discuss Fire Department – Town of Linn Staffing Agreement
Plan Commission
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission will hold public hearings and make recommendations on two conditional use permit requests: one for a second-story addition and fence replacement at 930 Bayview Drive, and another to expand outdoor commercial entertainment use at 304 S. Wells St. The commission will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and take public comments on agenda items.
- Conditional use permit for second-story addition and fence replacement at 930 Bayview Drive (Parcel No. ZGB00026)
- Conditional use permit amendment to expand Outdoor Commercial Entertainment land use and remove Limited Conditional Use status at 304 S. Wells St and 421 Baker St (Parcel No. ZA452900001)
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission approved a conditional use permit for a second-story addition and fence replacement at 930 Bayview Drive, and approved an amendment to Maxwell Mansion's CUP to expand outdoor commercial entertainment with conditions limiting operations to Fridays-Sundays and ending by 9 PM. The amendment passed 4-2, with two members voting against. The commission also noted that minutes from the November 18 meeting were not approved and will be distributed on the January 20, 2025 agenda.
- Approved CUP for second-story addition and fence replacement at 930 Bayview Drive (6-0)
- Approved Maxwell Mansion CUP amendment with conditions: Side A operations limited to Fri-Sun, cease by 9 PM (4-2)
- Closed public hearings for both CUP items (6-0)
- Tabled approval of November 18, 2024 minutes; to be distributed on January 20, 2025 agenda
Utility Commission
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission will meet to approve minutes, financials, and bills, and to discuss or act on several utility improvement projects. Items include a scope of services for MSA on CTH H, a change order and payment application for the Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project, and a request for city financing of the White River Culvert Replacement Project.
- Approval of November 2024 financials and bills
- Discussion/Action on scope of services for MSA for utility improvements on CTH H
- Discussion/Action on Change Order #1 for the Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project
- Discussion/Action on Pay Application #1 for the Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project
- Request for City participation in financing the White River Culvert Replacement Project
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission approved a scope of services from MSA for utility improvements on CTH H, coordinating with Public Works for pedestrian improvements. It also approved Change Order #1 and Pay Application #1 for the Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project, and recommended sending a request for city participation in the White River Culvert Replacement Project to FLR and Council. All votes were 6-0.
- Approved MSA scope of services for CTH H utility improvements (6-0)
- Approved Change Order #1 for Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement (6-0)
- Approved Pay Application #1 from PTS Contractors for Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement (6-0)
- Recommended sending city participation request for White River Culvert Replacement to FLR and Council (6-0)
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Board is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes routine items such as approving previous minutes, reviewing invoices, and receiving reports from the finance, building, and grounds committee, the library director, and other liaisons. No major decisions or public hearings are listed; the meeting is largely procedural.
- Review and approval of previous month's invoices
- Building and grounds report
- Investment / donations report
- Director's report on usage, stats, staff, events, and projects
- Next anniversary planning committee meeting set for July 7, 2025
Historic Preservation Commission
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss a range of preservation topics, including the demolition and new construction at 833 Wisconsin Street, updates on the Hillmoor archaeological survey, and potential local landmark nominations for the Public Library and The Riviera. They will also review the 2024 budget and discuss the 2025 budget, along with updates on plaques, signs, and the walking tour app.
- Update on Eduard Babayev's demolition and new house at 833 Wisconsin Street
- Discussion of 2024 budget balance and 2025 budget
- Potential local landmark nominations for Lake Geneva Public Library and The Riviera
- Status of Hillmoor Archaeological Site Survey and potential National Historic Landscape nomination
- Historic plaques cost $258.48 each from Timberline Signs
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission approved a new Mill Pond historic sign in conjunction with the Beautification Committee, approved a plaque for Holy Communion Episcopal Church honoring Father John McNamara, and approved a 3-D scan of the Three Graces statue in Springfield, IL. The commission also noted the City Council approved amended short-term rental regulations and that $30,000 was approved for a historic survey of Lake Geneva.
- Approved Mill Pond historic sign with Beautification Committee
- Approved plaque for Holy Communion Episcopal Church honoring Father John McNamara
- Approved 3-D scan of Three Graces statue in Springfield, IL ($2,500)
- Noted City Council approved amended short-term rentals
- Noted $30,000 approved for historic survey of Lake Geneva
Avian Committee
The Avian Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, a budget update and 2025 financial review, and updates from the City Council. They will also review the Bird City application status, partnerships, and the Birding Backpacks project, plus climate-related topics like World Migratory Bird Day, EV chargers, and the Dark Skies Project. The agenda is largely procedural and informational, with no major decisions listed.
- Budget update and 2025 financial review
- Bird City application status
- Birding Backpacks project
- World Migratory Bird Day activities
- EV chargers in Lake Geneva and Dark Skies Project
The Avian Committee approved the November meeting minutes and discussed several ongoing projects, including the Bird City application, birdwatching backpacks, and a World Migratory Bird Day event. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; most items were updates or planning discussions.
- Approved November 12 meeting minutes (motion by Rodriguez, seconded by Ross)
- Scheduled Bird City application work session for December 18
- Set goal of April 1 for birdwatching backpacks to be in place
- Planned World Migratory Bird Day event for May 17, 10am-12pm at Smith Reading Room
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Board is meeting to plan the library's 130th anniversary celebration. They will discuss programming ideas, including a historical newspaper program, and review public relations efforts such as street banners and promotional items.
- Historical newspaper program with John Halverson and Ginny Hall (tentative date needed)
- Street banner status update
- Discussion of billboard advertising
- Review of card signup and checkout goals
Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee
The Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee will discuss and make recommendations on the bid award for the Geneva Lake Seawall Replacement Project, review renderings for pier placement at Lagoon, Flat Iron Park, and Library Park, and consider possible new pier development. They will also discuss the Gage Marine Pier and Buoy Service Contract and proposed fee increases for various slip, buoy, and rack leases. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Bid award recommendation for Geneva Lake Seawall Replacement Project
- Review of pier placement renderings for Lagoon Piers, Flat Iron Park, and Library Park
- Discussion on possible development of new piers and placement
- Gage Marine Pier and Buoy Service Contract discussion
- Proposed fee increases for Annual West End Pier Slip, Lagoon Slip, Buoy, Dingy, Kayak, and Paddleboard Rack Leases
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will vote on several licenses and permits, including temporary beer/wine licenses for St. Francis de Sales events and a Winterfest street closure. They will also consider a $275,160.82 payment to Wolf Paving for the 2024 street program, act on three conditional use permits and a general development plan amendment, and enter closed session to interview and hire a City Administrator and review the WPPA collective bargaining agreement.
- Temporary Class B beer/wine licenses for St. Francis de Sales events (Chili Cook-Off Jan 18, Spaghetti Dinner Feb 22, Irish Trivia Night Mar 22)
- Public Event Permit for Winterfest street use/closure Jan 29-Feb 2, 2025
- Pay application #3 to Wolf Paving for $275,160.82 for 2024 Lake Geneva Street Program
- Conditional Use Permit for Lake Geneva Billiards Club relocation/expansion at 772 W. Main Street Suite 04
- Closed session for City Administrator hiring and WPPA collective bargaining agreement review
The Common Council approved several items, including temporary beer/wine licenses for St. Francis de Sales events, a public event permit for Winterfest, a Historic Preservation Commission grant application, a street program payment, and two conditional use permits. The council also authorized the agent to negotiate with a city administrator candidate and approved the WPPA collective bargaining agreement, both in roll call votes.
- Approved temporary Class B beer license for St. Francis de Sales Chili Cook-Off (voice vote)
- Approved temporary Class B wine/beer license for St. Francis de Sales Spaghetti Dinner (voice vote)
- Approved temporary Class B beer license for St. Francis de Sales Irish Trivia Night (voice vote)
- Approved public event permit for VISIT Lake Geneva Winterfest (voice vote)
- Authorized Historic Preservation Commission to apply for Wisconsin Historical Society grant (voice vote)
- Approved pay application #3 to Wolf Paving for $275,160.82 (voice vote)
- Approved conditional use permit for Lake Geneva Billiards Club relocation/expansion (voice vote)
- Approved conditional use permit for partial second floor at 61 Lakeview Drive (voice vote)
Tourism Commission
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission will discuss and possibly act on an independent contractor agreement for the Convention Center Special Events Coordinator, review tourism grant requests (including the Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk and the World's Tallest Glass Tree), and consider revisions to the grant application process. They will also discuss a potential subscription to Placer.ai for tourism administration and grant evaluations. Updates will be provided on promotional activities, hotel performance, and room tax finances.
- Discussion/action on Independent Contractor Agreement for Lake Geneva Cooperative Convention Center Special Events Coordinator
- Tourism Promotional Grant requests: Downtown Lake Geneva Ice Sculpture Walk (VISIT Lake Geneva) and World's Tallest Glass Tree (Mackglass Community)
- Discussion/action on Tourism Grant Application revisions
- Discussion/possible action on Placer.ai subscription for tourism administration and grant use
- Final event evaluation from Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival (Nei-Turner Media Group)
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission approved a $17,560 grant for the 6th Annual Ice Sculpture Walk and unanimously approved revisions to the Tourism Grant application. The commission tabled the World's Tallest Glass Tree grant request until January, pending a detailed marketing budget. No public comments were made, and the meeting was adjourned at 5:24 p.m.
- Approved $17,560 grant for Downtown Lake Geneva Ice Sculpture Walk (unanimous)
- Approved Tourism Grant application revisions (unanimous)
- Tabled World's Tallest Glass Tree grant until January for marketing budget details
- Approved minutes from October 14, 2024 (unanimous)
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission will vote on the 2025-2027 police collective bargaining agreement, confirm a police sergeant promotion, and approve monthly bills. The commission will also discuss the 2025 budget, fire department hiring, and enter closed session to discuss fire contracts with the Town of Linn and Town of Geneva.
- Police bills totaling $473,355.61 for November 2024
- Fire department bills totaling $283,237.74 for November 2024
- Confirmation of Officer Brandi Nelson's promotion to Sergeant effective January 1, 2025
- Approval of 2025-2027 Police Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Donations for Shop with a Cop totaling $3,450.00
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District Board will hold a routine business meeting, including approval of minutes, financial reports, and an executive director's report. New business includes planning for the 2025 Resource Main Street visit, board seat recommendations, and discussion of amendments to board policies and procedures. No City Council action will be taken.
- 2025 Resource Main Street visit planning
- Board seat recommendations
- Discussion/review of amendments to board policies and procedures
- Treasurer report: chart of accounts, budget vs actuals, pay bills
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council is holding a special meeting to discuss its December 2024 meeting schedule and to conduct closed-session interviews for the City Administrator position. The council will also reconvene in open session to take any action resulting from the closed session. The agenda is otherwise procedural.
- Discussion/recommendation on December 2024 meeting schedule
- Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(c) to interview candidates for City Administrator
- Return to open session for potential action on closed-session items
The Lake Geneva Common Council held a special meeting on December 4, 2024. They voted to cancel the December 23, 2024, Council meeting. The Council then entered closed session to interview candidates for the City Administrator position, and returned to open session without taking further action.
- Cancelled December 23, 2024 Council meeting (voice vote, approved)
- Entered closed session to interview City Administrator candidates (roll call, 8-0)
- Returned to open session; no action taken on closed session items (roll call, 8-0)
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
This Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee meeting is canceled, so no official action will be taken. The agenda had included discussion of a $275,160.82 payment to Wolf Paving for the 2024 street program, a review of the Sunday Parking Program, and approval of accounts payable.
- Pay application #3 from Wolf Paving for 2024 Lake Geneva Street Program: $275,160.82
- Discussion of Sunday Parking Program
- Pre-paid checks: $41,902.89
- Regular checks: $328,026.09
Committee of the Whole
The Lake Geneva Committee of the Whole is meeting on December 2, 2024, to receive a presentation on housing needs in Walworth County and to hear reports from various city committees and boards. No official action will be taken at this meeting.
- Presentation: Walworth County Needs Housing by Pam Carper, Walworth County Economic Development Alliance
- Reports from standing committees: Finance, Personnel, Public Works, Piers/Harbor/Lakefront
- Reports from commissions/boards: Utility, Tree, Police/Fire, Plan, Parks, Library, Historic Preservation, Avian, Tourism, Cemetery
- Reports from council representatives on other boards: VISIT Lake Geneva, Geneva Lake Museum, Economic Development Corp, Geneva Lake Environmental Agency, YMCA, Geneva Lake Use, Business Improvement District, Geneva Lake Law Enforcement
The Committee of the Whole met on December 2, 2024, and approved the October 7, 2024 minutes (7-0). No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of a presentation on Walworth County housing needs by Pam Carper of WCEDA, public comments, and reports from standing committees and boards. Items discussed included the City Administrator finalists, the Lions Den concrete pad bid award, and plans for the Lagoon and seawall.
- Approved Committee of the Whole minutes from October 7, 2024 (7-0)
Public Works Committee
The Lake Geneva Public Works Committee will discuss and possibly recommend action on several infrastructure items, including EV charging stations, sidewalk layouts, street program pay requests, and parking changes. The meeting is primarily for discussion and recommendations, with no official Council action taken.
- Discussion on EV Charging Stations
- Discussion on South Street crossings preliminary layout
- Discussion/Recommendation for Approval of Pay Request #3 2024 Street Program
- Discussion on Lake Geneva Blvd sidewalk layout
- Discussion/Recommendation regarding parking on North Street
The Public Works Committee approved Pay Request #3 for the 2024 Street Program in the amount of $275,160.82. They also directed the Department of Public Works to paint a crosswalk and realign parking stalls near Brunk Pavilion. Several items were continued to the January meeting, including parking on North Street, brush drop-off solutions, and the Lake Geneva Blvd sidewalk layout.
- Approved Pay Request #3 for 2024 Street Program, $275,160.82 (4-0)
- Directed DPW to paint crosswalk and realign parking stalls near Brunk Pavilion (4-0)
- Continued North Street parking discussion to January with packet materials (4-0)
- Continued brush drop-off discussion to January with solution plan
- Continued Lake Geneva Blvd sidewalk layout to next month with administrator update
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will hold a public hearing and vote on the proposed 2025 municipal operating and capital budgets, along with the 2024 tax levy. They will also consider several contracts, a zoning text amendment for short-term rentals, and temporary appointments to fill an alderman vacancy.
- Resolution 24-R61 adopting the 2025 Budget and 2024 Tax Levy
- Public hearing on the proposed 2025 Municipal Operating and Capital Budgets
- Ordinance 24-13 amending short-term rental regulations (continued from Nov 11)
- Bid award to Glen Fern Construction for post replacement at Lions Den and concrete pads at Veterans Park, not to exceed $14,560
- Purchase of five park benches from Columbia Cascade Company, not to exceed $22,500, paid with Park Impact Fees
The Common Council approved the 2025 Municipal Operating and Capital Budgets and the 2024 tax levy via Resolution 24-R61. The council also approved Ordinance 24-20, amending the Library Board composition to allow any adjacent municipality to recommend members. A short-term rental ordinance (24-13) was approved on a 5-2 vote after initial motion failed for lack of a second. Several contracts and purchases were approved, including a commercial buoy lease, lifeguard services, and park improvements.
- Approved 2025 budget and 2024 tax levy (7-0)
- Approved Ordinance 24-20 amending Library Board composition (voice vote)
- Approved short-term rental ordinance 24-13 (5-2)
- Approved temporary appointment of Cathy Stoodley as 4th District alderman (7-0)
- Approved $14,560 bid for post replacement at Lions Den and concrete pads at Veterans Park (7-0)
- Approved purchase of five park benches for $22,500 from Park Impact Fees (7-0)
- Approved $16,500 change order and $278,007.84 pay request for Wolf Paving street program (7-0)
- Approved 2025-2026 Commercial Buoy Lease Agreement with Marina Bay Boat Rentals (voice vote)
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Lake Geneva Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing and vote on a variance request filed by Shauna Basil for property at 1410 Linda Lane in the SR-4 zoning district. The board will also receive a presentation from Vandewalle & Associates on the variance process. The agenda includes routine items such as approving minutes and public comments.
- Public hearing and action on variance request for 1410 Linda Lane (tax key ZST 00001)
- Presentation by Vandewalle & Associates on the variance process
- Approve minutes of August 28, 2023 meeting
- Public comments limited to 5 minutes per person
Board of Park Commissioners
The Board of Park Commissioners will discuss and possibly recommend actions on several park topics, including a vandalized memorial plaque replacement, court resurfacing updates, and a range of improvements at Veterans Park. They will also review minutes from other committees and consider requesting a downtown Christmas lights plan from the Business Improvement District.
- Discussion/recommendation on downtown Christmas lights plan via Business Improvement District
- Replacement of vandalized memorial plaque for Mark Sesselman
- Update on resurfacing basketball and tennis courts at Maple Park, Dunn Field, and Veterans Park
- YMCA Field Improvement at Veterans Park with funding from Tourism Commission
- Capital Improvement Projects budget item for 2027: Park Rental Pavilion with Restrooms and Kitchen at Veterans Park
The Board of Park Commissioners approved a motion requesting the Business Improvement District (BID) consult with the board on a Christmas lighting plan by November 2025, and accepted Mark Sesselman's offer to replace a vandalized memorial plaque at his own expense. The board also approved minutes from October meetings and discussed updates on the Avian Committee, Tree Board, and court resurfacing projects.
- Approved motion for BID to consult with Park Board on Christmas lighting plan by Nov 2025 (unanimous)
- Accepted Mark Sesselman's offer to replace vandalized memorial plaque (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from Oct 15 & Oct 29, 2024 meetings (unanimous)
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and make recommendations on several items, including a policy change on agenda deadlines, agreements for buoy leases and lifeguard services, park improvement bids, and street program payments. They will also review pre-paid and regular checks. No final council action will be taken at this meeting.
- 2025-2026 Commercial Buoy Lease Agreement with Marina Bay Boat Rentals, Inc.
- Lifeguard Services Agreement with Geneva Lake Water Patrol for 2025 Summer Season
- Bid award for Project 2024-13-A: post replacement at Lions Den Concession Building and concrete pads at Veterans Park to Glen Fern Construction, not to exceed $14,560
- Purchase of five park benches from Columbia Cascade Company, not to exceed $22,500, paid with Park Impact Fees
- Contract Change Order 2 and Pay Request 2 from Wolf Paving for 2024 Street Program: $16,500 and $278,007.84
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District board will meet on November 19, 2024, to discuss the 2025 budget workshop, resource planning for Main Street, and closed-session contract negotiations for the executive director. The meeting will also include a treasurer’s report and public comments limited to agenda items.
- 2025 Budget Workshop
- 2025 Resource Main Street Visit Planning
- Closed session for executive director contract negotiations and board policy review
- Treasurer’s report: Chart of Accounts review, budget vs. actuals, and bill payments
Plan Commission
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission will hold public hearings and make recommendations on four items: a conditional use permit to relocate and expand the Lake Geneva Billiards Club, a partial second floor addition, a precise implementation plan amendment, and a general development plan amendment for an electrical substation. The commission will also approve minutes and hear public comments.
- CUP for Lake Geneva Billiards Club relocation/expansion at 772 W. Main Street Suite 04
- CUP for partial second floor at 61 Lakeview Drive
- PIP amendment for property at 80 Geneva Square
- GDP amendment for electrical substation reconstruction at 255 Mill Street
- Approve minutes of October 21, 2024 meeting
Utility Commission
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission will review and vote on the proposed 2025 operating, maintenance, and capital budgets for both the Water Utility and Wastewater Utility. The meeting also includes approval of October 2024 financials and bills, and a vote on a contract for auditing services.
- Vote on 2025 Water Utility operating, maintenance, and capital budgets
- Vote on 2025 Wastewater Utility operating, maintenance, and capital budgets
- Approval of October 2024 financials
- Approval of October 2024 bills
- Discussion/action on auditing services contract with Lauterbach & Amen for 2024
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Library Board will review and likely approve a $19,600 contract with OPN Architects for renovations to the Smith Meeting Room. The board will also receive routine financial, building, and committee reports, including a Landmarking process update and anniversary planning.
- $19,600 OPN Architects contract for Smith Meeting Room (SMR) renovation
- Landmarking process update
- Review and approval of previous month’s invoices
- Next anniversary planning committee meeting: November 27 @ 10am
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee is meeting to review and approve the previous month's invoices, receive a building and grounds report, and discuss an investments/donations report including an architect funding request. The meeting is primarily routine financial and facilities oversight, with no major policy decisions or public hearings on the agenda.
- Review and approval of previous month's invoices
- Building and grounds report
- Investments and donations report
- Architect funding request
Tree Board
The Lake Geneva Tree Board is meeting to discuss several items, including the arborist report, the Park Director position, Downtown Holiday Lights, and the Museum Holiday Tree Parade decorating. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting. No official Council action will be taken.
- Arborist Report by Jon Foster
- Discussion regarding Park Director Position
- Discussion regarding Downtown Holiday Lights (BID)
- Discussion regarding Museum Holiday Tree Parade decorating on November 20 at 10:00 AM
The Lake Geneva Tree Board met on November 12, 2024, and approved the previous meeting's minutes unanimously. The board tabled further discussion on downtown lights in trees until more updates from the Park Board. No other substantive decisions were made; other items were informational or referred to other bodies.
- Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Tabled downtown lights in trees discussion pending Park Board updates
Avian Committee
The Lake Geneva Avian Committee will meet to discuss its Bird City application, a proclamation for the application, a budget update for 2025, and potential partnerships and funding opportunities. The committee will also review climate change topics including World Migratory Bird Day activities, EV chargers, and a dark skies project. No official council action will be taken.
- Bird City Application review
- 2025 Budget Update and Financial Review
- World Migratory Bird Day Activities discussion
- EV Chargers in Lake Geneva topic
- Dark Skies Project update
The Avian Committee approved minutes and moved forward on several projects. They secured a $3,000 grant from the Tourism Commission for birdwatching backpacks, set a budget line for Martin house maintenance, and made progress on the 2025 Bird City application. No final decisions were made on the city budget, which awaits council approval.
- Approved October 8 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Set budget line item for Martin house maintenance (motion passed)
- Received $3,000 Tourism Commission grant for birdwatching backpacks
- Agreed to add Tourism Commission logo to backpack materials
- Planned to create proclamation for Bird City application
- Discussed advocating for bird-friendly building ordinances
Historic Preservation Commission
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business, including budget reviews, updates on historic properties, and potential ordinance changes. Key items include the proposed 2025 city budget, updates to the Historic Preservation Ordinance, and the status of the Hillmoor Archaeological Site Survey.
- Discussion of proposed 2025 LGHPC City Budget and current 2024 balance
- Update on Eduard Babayev's proposed new house at 833 Wisconsin Street
- Status of Hillmoor Archaeological Site Survey and potential National Historic Landscape nomination
- Discussion of updates to Chapter 34 Historic Preservation Ordinance and new Local Historic Landmark Application Form
- Review of Historic Plaque Program applications; plaques cost $258.48 each from Timberline Signs
Tourism Commission
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission will review and potentially act on six tourism promotional grant requests, including bird watching kits, a winter bridal expo, a glass tree display, baseball/softball tournaments, a children's museum event, and a women's weekend. They will also hear updates on promotional activities and hotel performance from VISIT Lake Geneva, and review grant procedures and application revisions.
- Grant request: Bird Watching Kits for Visitors - City of Lake Geneva Avian Committee
- Grant request: Lake Geneva Winter Bridal Expo - Celebration Management
- Grant request: The World's Tallest Glass Tree - Mackglass Community
- Grant request: Baseball/Softball Travel Tournaments - Geneva Lakes Family YMCA
- Grant request: Rediscover Wonder - Lake Geneva Children's Museum
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission approved its 2025 budget and awarded six tourism promotional grants totaling $409,500, all unanimously. Grants included $300,000 for baseball-softball travel tournaments, $38,000 for the World's Tallest Glass Tree, and smaller amounts for other events. The commission also approved minutes from October 14, 2024, and discussed website updates and upcoming events.
- Approved 2025 Tourism Commission Budget (unanimous)
- Awarded $4,000 to Avian Committee for bird watching kits marketing (unanimous)
- Awarded $15,000 to Winter Bridal Expo (unanimous)
- Awarded $38,000 to World's Tallest Glass Tree, requiring detailed budget in December (unanimous)
- Awarded up to $300,000 to Geneva Lakes Family YMCA for baseball-softball tournaments (unanimous)
- Awarded $32,000 to Lake Geneva Children's Museum for Rediscover Wonder event (unanimous)
- Awarded $20,500 to Women's Weekend 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from October 14, 2024 (unanimous)
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will consider a conditional use permit for TLC Productions LLC to expand entertainment uses at 100 North Edwards Boulevard, and will review a series of zoning text amendments, including changes to short-term rental regulations, definitions, and parking minimums. The council will also discuss a resident volunteer application process and a claim denial for an alleged injury.
- Conditional Use Permit for TLC Productions LLC at 100 North Edwards Blvd to add outdoor commercial entertainment
- Ordinance 24-13: Short-term rental zoning text amendments, including new resident reporting requirements
- Ordinance 24-14: Allow indoor/outdoor commercial entertainment in Planned Business Park district
- Ordinance 24-18: Add parking minimums for small-scale indoor commercial entertainment
- Discussion on disallowance of Francene Weyland's trip-and-fall claim from May 3, 2024
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission will meet to approve July 2024 bills for the police and fire departments, totaling $842,537.28, and discuss the 2025 budget timeline. The agenda includes accepting a police sergeant's retirement and a CSO's resignation, as well as updates on recruitment and monthly activity. The commission will also enter closed session to discuss union contracts, personnel matters, and fire department staffing.
- Approval of fire department bills: $375,022.49 total (operating $344,195.95, capital $17,439.71, equipment replacement $13,386.83)
- Approval of police department bills: $467,514.79 total (operating $465,625.03, equipment replacement $1,889.76)
- Acceptance of retirement letter from Sergeant Daniel Derrick and purchase of service handgun per General Order 18-1
- Acceptance of resignation letter from CSO Natalie Alvarez
- Closed session for police union contract, School Resource Officer MOU, video surveillance agreement, and fire department staffing
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission will discuss the 2025 budget update and review October spending totals of $444,700.81 for police and $302,496.28 for fire operations. The meeting will also consider a sergeant promotion, a firefighter resignation, and a $100 donation in memory of a fallen firefighter.
- Approval of police bills totaling $444,700.81 for October 2024
- Approval of fire bills totaling $302,496.28 for October 2024
- Confirmation of Sergeant promotion
- Acceptance of $100 donation from Kronebush Industries in memory of Firefighter Ken Larsen
- Acceptance of resignation from probationary firefighter Emily Trela
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission approved October 2024 bills for police ($444,700.81) and fire ($302,496.28), confirmed the promotion of William D. Thornburgh to Sergeant, and accepted a resignation and a donation. The 2025 budget is scheduled for final approval on November 28, 2024.
- Approved police October bills totaling $444,700.81 (4-0)
- Approved fire October bills totaling $302,496.28 (4-0)
- Confirmed promotion of William D. Thornburgh to Sergeant (4-0)
- Accepted resignation of probationary candidate Emily Trela (4-0)
- Accepted $100.00 donation from Kronebush Industries in memory of Firefighter Ken Larsen (4-0)
- Approved regular meeting minutes of October 10, 2024 (4-0)
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Library Board meets to finalize anniversary logo versions, approve merchandise orders, and review event planning for the 130th anniversary. The board also discusses printing street banners with approved designs and updates the ongoing event calendar.
- Final versions of 130th anniversary logo
- Merchandise orders in progress and future
- Street banners with approved designs awaiting printing
Board of Park Commissioners
The Board of Park Commissioners is holding a work session to discuss its 1, 3, and 5 year plans. No official action will be taken; the agenda is otherwise procedural, including public comments, setting the next meeting date, and adjournment.
- Discussion on the Board's 1, 3, and 5 Year Plans
The Board of Park Commissioners met on October 29, 2024, and discussed the resurfacing and repainting of tennis and pickleball courts, which was budgeted but not completed; funds will roll over to 2025. The board also discussed its 1, 3, and 5-year plans, focusing on improvements at Veterans' Park. No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.
- Discussed tennis/pickleball court resurfacing and repainting, with funds to roll over to 2025
- Discussed 1, 3, and 5-year plans, focusing on Veterans' Park improvements
- Set next meeting for November 19, 2024 at 6:30pm
- Adjourned at 7:55pm
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will consider approving the publication of a public hearing notice for the 2025 operating and capital budgets, and will hold first readings of two ordinances: one updating building codes for camping units and another establishing a Hillmoor Commission advisory body for the city-owned Hillmoor property. The council will also act on Finance Committee recommendations, including a speed study on Hwy 50 and a complimentary event request.
- Resolution 24-R59: Approve publication of public hearing notice for 2025 budgets
- Ordinance 24-11: Amend building code to incorporate SPS 327 for camping units
- Ordinance 24-12: Establish Hillmoor Commission for 200-acre Hillmoor property
- Task Order 37: $8,066 speed study on Hwy 50 for potential 40 to 25 mph reduction
- Event permits: Electric Christmas Parade (Dec 7) and Downtown Fall Wine Walk (Nov 3)
The Common Council approved Ordinance 24-12 creating the Hillmoor Commission, an advisory body for the city-owned Hillmoor property, after amending it to replace 'citizen' with 'resident', require at least monthly meetings, and mandate live-streaming and recording of meetings. A proposed sunset clause was rejected. The council also approved a $8,066 speed study on Hwy 50 and several event permits.
- Approved Ordinance 24-12 creating Hillmoor Commission (voice vote, all approved)
- Rejected sunset clause for Hillmoor Commission (2-4 roll call)
- Amended Hillmoor ordinance to replace 'citizen' with 'resident' (voice vote, all approved)
- Amended Hillmoor ordinance to require at least monthly meetings (voice vote, all approved)
- Amended Hillmoor ordinance to require live-streamed and recorded meetings (5-1)
- Approved Task Order 37 for $8,066 speed study on Hwy 50 (5-1)
- Approved event permits for Electric Christmas Parade, Downtown Fall Wine Walk, and Art Foundation Open House (consent agenda)
- Approved Resolution 24-R59 for public hearing notice on 2025 budget (voice vote, all approved)
Public Works Committee
The Lake Geneva Public Works Committee is meeting to discuss and make recommendations on several public works items, including a crosswalk on Center Street, parking on North Street, snowplowing, and ADA recommendations. They will also consider approval of a contract change order and payment request for the 2024 Street Program. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Discussion/recommendation regarding crosswalk on Center Street adjacent to Brunk Pavilion
- Discussion/recommendation regarding parking on North Street
- Discussion/recommendation regarding snowplowing
- Discussion/recommendation for approval of Contract Change Order #02–2024 Street Program
- Discussion/recommendation for approval of Payment Request #02–2024 Street Program
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee is meeting to continue discussions and recommendations on the 2025 Capital, Equipment, and Operating Budgets, which were started on October 15, 2024. The agenda includes public comments limited to items on the agenda, but no official Council action will be taken.
- Continued discussion on 2025 Capital, Equipment, and Operating Budgets
- Public comments limited to 5 minutes on agenda items
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee continued its discussion of the 2025 Capital, Equipment, and Operating Budgets, reviewing various sections with Finance Director Laura Pisarcik. No formal decisions were made; Pisarcik requested feedback from alderpersons before the October 28 council meeting. The meeting adjourned without any votes on substantive items.
- Continued discussion of 2025 draft budget (no action taken)
- Adjourned meeting (motion by Ames, second by Hoiland, all approved)
Plan Commission
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission will hold public hearings and make recommendations on a conditional use permit for the Magic Theater to expand indoor and add outdoor commercial entertainment, plus several zoning code amendments. They will also discuss short-term rental ordinance findings and driveway width requirements. The meeting includes multiple public hearings and recommendations on proposed zoning changes.
- Conditional use permit for Magic Theater, 100 N. Edwards Blvd, to expand indoor and add outdoor commercial entertainment
- Zoning amendments to allow indoor/outdoor commercial entertainment in Planned Business Park district (sections 98-203, 98-206(8)(2), 98-105)
- Zoning amendments on pervious surfaces, residential decks, parking minimums, in-family suites, and fencing standards
- Short-term rental ordinance findings and proposed amendments to section 98-206(8)(y)
- Discussion of driveway width requirements with Kapur Associates/Public Works
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission approved a conditional use permit for the Magic Theater to expand indoor entertainment and add outdoor entertainment, with a stipulation prohibiting amplified outdoor entertainment and limiting outdoor use to picnics. The commission also approved several zoning code amendments, including changes to the Planned Business Park district, pervious surfaces, fencing, residential decks, parking minimums, in-family suites, and short-term rental ordinance amendments. All votes were unanimous (6-0).
- Approved CUP for Magic Theater expansion with no outdoor amplified entertainment, picnic use only (6-0)
- Approved zoning amendments to allow indoor/outdoor commercial entertainment in Planned Business Park district (6-0)
- Approved zoning amendments for pervious surfaces and Landscape Surface Ratio (6-0)
- Approved zoning amendments for fencing standards (6-0)
- Approved zoning amendments for residential decks (6-0)
- Approved zoning amendments for parking minimums for Indoor Commercial Entertainment – Minor (6-0)
- Approved zoning amendments for In-Family Suites (6-0)
- Approved Short-Term Rental Ordinance amendments (6-0)
Utility Commission
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission will consider accepting public improvements for the Symphony Bay Phase 5 Lift Station Project, a proposal for engineering services for White River culvert replacement, and the 2025 utility budget. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes, financials, and bills, plus a closed session to discuss a ground lease with VB 500 II, LLC.
- Acceptance of Symphony Bay Phase 5 Lift Station Project and reduction in warranty bonding
- Proposal from Ellena Engineering Consultants, LLC for White River culvert replacement
- 2025 Utility budget requests
- Closed session on ground lease with VB 500 II, LLC (PIN NLY3200008)
- Approval of September 2024 financials and bills
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and possibly recommend action on several items, including event permits, a speed study on Hwy 50, a fee schedule revision, and the 2025 budgets. The meeting is for discussion and recommendation only; no final council action will be taken.
- Event permits for Electric Christmas Parade (Dec 7) and Downtown Fall Wine Walk (Nov 3)
- Temporary Class B Wine license for Geneva Lake Art Foundation open house (Nov 15)
- Task Order 37 with Kapur for speed study on Hwy 50 (not to exceed $8,066)
- Resolution 24-R58 revising Building & Zoning Permit fees
- 2025 Capital, Equipment, and Operating Budgets discussion
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee approved Task Order 37 for a speed study on Hwy 50, not to exceed $8,066, with a 3-1 vote. The committee also approved event permits for the Electric Christmas Parade and Downtown Fall Wine Walk, a temporary Class B Wine license, and a complimentary Riviera Ballroom event request. Several items were continued to the next meeting, including changes to Policy 103, Resolution 24-R58 on fee schedules, and the 2025 budgets.
- Approved Task Order 37 for Hwy 50 speed study, $8,066 max (3-1)
- Approved event permit for Electric Christmas Parade on Dec 7, 2024 (4-0)
- Approved event permit for Downtown Fall Wine Walk on Nov 3, 2024 (4-0)
- Approved temporary Class B Wine license for Geneva Lake Art Foundation (4-0)
- Approved complimentary Riviera Ballroom event for Veteran's Day Collaboration (4-0)
- Continued Policy 103 agenda deadline changes to next meeting (4-0)
- Continued Resolution 24-R58 fee schedule revision to next meeting (4-0)
- Continued 2025 budgets to special meeting on Oct 22, 2024 (4-0)
Board of Park Commissioners
The Board of Park Commissioners will discuss and potentially take action on allocating $17,000 in impact fees for park projects and on a proposal from Glen Fern Construction for concrete pads at Lions Den concession (Project 2024-13A). They will also review reports from the YMCA, Avian Committee, and Tree Board, and discuss the condition of the Westgate Tot Lot. The meeting includes public comments limited to agenda items.
- Discussion/Action on Glen Fern Construction proposal for Lions Den Concession Concrete Pads (Project 2024-13A)
- Discussion and action on use of $17,000 in Impact Fees
- Overview of Westgate Tot Lot condition
- YMCA Quarterly Report
- Review of Avian Committee and Tree Board minutes
The Board of Park Commissioners approved a proposal from Glen Fern Construction for concrete pads at the Lions Den concession area and unanimously approved spending $17,000 in impact fees on five benches, with locations to be recommended by June 2025. The board also received reports on YMCA activities, tree planting, and discussed aging playground equipment.
- Approved Glen Fern Construction proposal for Lions Den concession concrete pads (unanimous)
- Approved purchase of 5 benches with $17,000 impact fees (unanimous)
- Added motion to recommend bench locations by June 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from September 17 and October 1, 2024 (unanimous)
Tourism Commission
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission is meeting to approve the 2025 budget and discuss revisions to the Tourism Grant Application, including adding a link or QR code for social media and splitting the application into two sections. The agenda also includes updates on promotional activities, hotel performance, and a financial report on room tax dollars collected and outstanding tourism grants. No grant requests or final event evaluations are scheduled for this meeting.
- Approval of the 2025 Budget
- Discussion/Action on revisions to Tourism Grant Application (social media link/QR code, splitting into two sections)
- Update on Meet at the Lake promotional activity from contractor Heather Jones
- Update from VISIT Lake Geneva on promotional activity, calendar, and hotel performance
- Written financial update on room tax dollars, budget, disbursements, and outstanding tourism grants
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission approved the 2025 budget and renewed Heather Jones's contract with an automatic extension, adding a yearly review. The commission also approved minutes from June and September 2024 and agreed to use a revised grant application form. No public comments or grant requests were made.
- Approved 2025 Tourism Commission budget (unanimous)
- Approved Heather Jones's contract with automatic extension and yearly review (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from June 10 and September 9, 2024 (unanimous)
- Agreed to use revised Tourism Grant application (second version) going forward
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will consider two street program payments to Wolf Paving totaling over $266,000, and discuss recommendations from the Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee, including a City Hall carpet replacement project. The agenda also includes several routine items such as license approvals and consent agenda items.
- Payment Request #4 for 2023 Street Program: $20,377.34 to Wolf Paving Co, Inc
- Payment Request #1 for 2024 Street Program: $245,866.56 to Wolf Paving Co, Inc
- Discussion on awarding City Hall Carpet Replacement project to Four Seasons Flooring
- Alcohol license extension for Lake City Social for Jaycees Trunk or Treat on Oct 27, 2024
- Class A Beer/Liquor license for Wisco Petroleum LLC at 1231 Grant St
The Common Council approved a $47,980 contract for City Hall carpet replacement with Four Seasons Flooring, and approved two street program payments to Wolf Paving totaling over $266,000. The council also approved several consent agenda items, including a liquor license extension for a Trunk or Treat event and a new liquor license for Wisco Petroleum. All votes were unanimous except for the 2024 street program payment, which was approved 6-0 after correcting a typo in the amount.
- Approved $47,980 City Hall carpet replacement with Four Seasons Flooring (6-0)
- Approved $245,866.54 payment to Wolf Paving for 2024 Street Program (6-0)
- Approved $20,377.34 payment to Wolf Paving for 2023 Street Program (voice vote)
- Approved alcohol license premises extension for Lake Geneva Jaycees Trunk or Treat (consent)
- Approved agent change for Fairfield Inn & Suites (consent)
- Approved Class A beer/liquor license for Wisco Petroleum at 1231 Grant St (consent)
- Approved pre-paid and regular check reports from October 1, 2024 (voice vote)
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee is meeting to approve the previous month's invoices, review a building and grounds report including quotes from Zien, and hear an investments and donations report. The meeting is largely routine financial and facilities oversight.
- Review and approval of previous month's invoices
- Building and grounds report with Zien quotes
- Investments and donations report
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Library Board will review monthly invoices, investment reports, and building updates including Zien quotes. The board will also discuss a city ordinance amendment request and hear reports from the director, strategic planning committee, Friends of the Library, city, and school board.
- Review and approval of previous month’s invoices
- Zien quotes for building and grounds (Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee)
- Library board city ordinance amendment request (President’s report)
- Donation expenditure request and SMR renovation (Director’s report)
- Next anniversary planning committee meeting: Friday, November 1 @ 10am (Strategic Planning Committee)
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission will vote on September 2024 bills totaling $966,661.68 for police and fire departments, approve a $250 donation for Shop with a Cop, and consider hiring four part-time fire personnel. The agenda also includes policy updates, monthly activity reports, and a 2025 budget update.
- Police bills: $597,941.53 (operating $423,654.32, capital $174,287.21)
- Fire bills: $368,720.15 (operating $356,167.05, capital $6,186.06, equipment $6,367.04)
- Approve $250 donation from Lake Como Beach Women's Club for Shop with a Cop
- Transfer 2006 Ford Interceptor Utility to Parking Department
- Hire part-time firefighters Jason VanderVort, Keegan Werth, Maxwell Loffredo, and paid-on-call Joseph Batchelor
Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency
The Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency Board of Directors will hold a routine meeting on October 9, 2024. The agenda includes public comments, approval of previous meeting minutes, bills and treasurer's report, and a commander's report. No major policy decisions or public hearings are listed.
- Public comments accepted via email until 8:00 A.M. on meeting date
- Approval of minutes from August 14, 2024 meeting
- Approval of bills and treasurer's report
- Commander's report
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
This special Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee meeting was canceled. The agenda had included discussion and recommendations on the 2025 Capital Budgets, but no official action will be taken.
- Meeting canceled
- Discussion/recommendations on 2025 Capital Budgets (agenda item, not acted upon)
Tree Board
The Lake Geneva Tree Board will meet to approve past minutes, elect officers, and receive an arborist report detailing a $30,000 budget and fall planting updates. A report from the Park Board regarding downtown Christmas tree lights will also be discussed.
- Approval of Tree Board minutes from August 20, 2024
- Election of officers
- Arborist report: $30,000 budget, fall planting, subdivision updates
- Park Board report on downtown Christmas tree lights
The Tree Board approved the previous meeting's minutes unanimously and re-elected Candy Kirchberg as Chair. The arborist reported a $30,000 yearly budget split between tree care and planting, with 57 trees to be planted by the city this year. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Re-elected Candy Kirchberg as Chair
Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee
The Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee will discuss and possibly recommend action on the Marina Bay rental contract, the Water Safety Patrol Agreement, and lagoon seawall cost clarifications. They will also discuss the timeline for Kapur Lagoon dredging bids and a pier replacement option for Summerset Lagoon. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Discussion/Recommendation on Marina Bay Rental Contract
- Discussion/Recommendation on Water Safety Patrol Agreement
- Discussion of Costs Clarifications for Lagoon Seawall (rip rap boulder, cement smooth wall, modular wall)
- Discussion of Kapur Lagoon Dredging Bids Timeline Schedule
- Discussion/Recommendation on Summerset Lagoon Pier Replacement (West End/Library Park drone simulation, steel piers estimated cost)
Avian Committee
The Avian Committee is meeting to review its 2024 finances and discuss the 2025 budget, along with updates on the Bird City application, partnerships, and the Birding Backpacks project. They will also plan activities for World Migratory Bird Day and a Christmas tree decorating event. Public comments are limited to items on the agenda.
- 2024 Financial Review and Update
- 2025 Financial Review
- Bird City Application
- Birding Backpacks Project
- Christmas tree decorating at the Geneva Lake Museum
The Avian Committee approved spending up to $800 per year for maintenance and repair of the purple martin houses, addressing needed repairs like nesting box trays and perching rods. They also discussed a $3,000 grant request for birdwatching backpacks, a potential climate change speaker, and the Bird City application, but no final decisions were made on those items.
- Approved motion to spend up to $800/year for martin house maintenance and repair (passed)
- Approved minutes from September 11 meeting (passed)
- Approved motion to combine items 10 and 11 on climate change and World Migratory Bird Day (passed)
- Approved motion to adjourn (passed)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission will review its 2024 budget and discuss the proposed 2025 budget, along with updates on the Historic Preservation Ordinance, new landmark applications, and ongoing projects. The meeting includes reports on local historic sites and events, and discussions on repairs and signage.
- Discussion of proposed 2025 LGHPC City Budget
- Update on Eduard Babayev's proposed new house at 833 Wisconsin Street
- Discussion of Chapter 34 Historic Preservation Ordinance updates and new Local Historic Landmark Application Form
- Status of nominations for Lake Geneva Public Library and The Riviera as Local Historic Landmarks
- Historic plaque cost at $258.48 each from Timberline Signs
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission approved nominating the Lake Geneva Public Library as a National & State Historic Building, with no cost to the city. They also reviewed the 2025 budget request of $10,000, discussed the Three Graces statue repair funding, and noted no new plaque applications. No formal votes were recorded on other items.
- Approved nominating Lake Geneva Public Library as National & State Historic Building (unanimous, no cost)
- Reviewed 2025 budget request of $10,000 (current balance $8,850)
- Discussed Three Graces statue repair; $300,000 set in 2027 budget
- No new historic plaque applications approved
- No action on short-term rental regulation update (reported only)
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will convene on October 7, 2024, at Lake Geneva City Hall with no official decisions or votes expected. The meeting includes routine procedural items, public comments, and reports from standing committees and local boards, but no substantive policy changes or ordinances are listed for action.
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee will discuss updates on the City Clerk hiring and City Administrator search, and consider the Parks Director position, including creating a job description. The meeting is primarily for discussion and recommendations, with no official Council action expected.
- Discussion/Update regarding City Clerk hiring
- Discussion/Update regarding City Administrator Search
- Discussion/Recommendation concerning Parks Director position
- Discussion regarding creation of Parks Director Job Description
- Discussion regarding Committee Chair packet materials
The Lake Geneva Personnel Committee voted 4-0 to create a Parks Director position reporting directly to the City Administrator. The committee also discussed a draft job description for the role, with suggestions for language changes and next steps. Additionally, the committee approved minutes from previous meetings and introduced the new City Clerk, Lacey Reynolds.
- Approved minutes from August 5 and September 4, 2024 (4-0)
- Motion to create Parks Director position carried (4-0)
- Discussed draft Parks Director job description; referred to City Administrator for further development
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council is holding a special meeting to discuss and potentially approve a change order for repairs to patches on Main Street at three locations. The Finance, Licensing, & Regulation Committee recommended the change order on October 1, 2024. The agenda includes public comments limited to agenda items and a pledge of allegiance.
- Change order for repairs to patches on Main Street from Warren St to Maxwell St
- Change order for repairs to patches on Main St at Cook St
- Change order for repairs to patches on Main St by Donian Park
The Lake Geneva Common Council approved a change order for repairs to patches on Main Street from Warren St to Maxwell St, at Cook St, and by Donian Park. The motion carried 5-0. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved change order for Main Street patch repairs (5-0)
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District Board will review a draft 2025 budget, hear updates on Oktoberfest planning and a Main Street resource team visit, and discuss bench updates. The board will also go into closed session to review the executive director's performance and discuss hiring for an additional position. This is a board meeting, not a City Council action meeting.
- 2025 Budget Draft review
- Oktoberfest planning update
- Main Street Resource Team visit update
- Bench update
- Closed session: executive director annual review and hiring for additional position
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and make recommendations on several license and permit applications, including an alcohol license extension for a Trunk or Treat event, an agent change for a hotel, and a new liquor license for a gas station. They will also consider a bid award for the City Hall carpet replacement and repairs to Main Street patches, both continued from a previous meeting. The committee will review accounts payable totaling over $405,000.
- Alcohol license premises extension for Lake Geneva Jaycees Trunk or Treat on Oct 27, 2024
- Agent change for Revir Hospitality Lake Geneva, LLC d/b/a Fairfield Inn & Suites
- Class 'A' Beer/'Class A' Liquor License for Wisco Petroleum LLC at 1231 Grant St
- City Hall Carpet Replacement bid award to Glen Fern Construction
- Main Street repairs from Warren St to Maxwell St, at Cook St, and by Donian Park
Board of Park Commissioners
The Board of Park Commissioners is holding a work session to discuss its priorities and 1-, 3-, and 5-year plans, as well as the use of impact fees for the current fiscal year. No official action will be taken; it is a discussion-only meeting.
- Discussion on Board priorities and long-term plans (1, 3, 5 years)
- Discussion on use of impact fees this fiscal year
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Board is meeting to plan the library's 2025 anniversary, including reviewing a budget request, discussing promotions, and planning events. The meeting is focused on anniversary planning and is otherwise procedural.
- Anniversary planning for 2025
- Budget request/review for anniversary
- Promotion discussion
- Events planning
Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee
The Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee will review options for sea wall repairs, pier replacements, and dredging bids for the Lagoon. A financial report on Lagoon projects will also be presented. No official action will be taken at this meeting.
- Sea wall repair options: Rip Rap-Boulder or Cement Smooth Wall
- Lagoon Pier Replacement options: Floating Piers, Steel Piers, or 18-foot maximum boat length slips
- Discussion on Lagoon Dredging bids
- Lagoon Project Financial Report with full cost breakdown
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will meet to approve minutes, discuss a park permit for Dragon Days, and vote on several items including a noise ordinance amendment, a budget amendment for a traffic safety beacon, and a temporary beer license for Oktoberfest. The meeting also includes a first reading of an ordinance updating sign regulations and a resolution for a Hillmoor Commission.
- Temporary Class B Beer License for Oktoberfest (Oct 11-13, 2024)
- Budget amendment for $1,750 rapid flashing beacon on Main St near Mill St
- First reading of Ordinance 24-06 amending noise ordinance (Chapter 46)
- Resolution 24-R56 approving PIP for multi-unit commercial property at 80 Geneva Square
- Ordinance 24-07 repealing and replacing signage regulations (Chapter 98)
The Common Council approved an amended noise ordinance (Ordinance 24-06) that removes specific prohibited times but adds an emergency permit authority and a public necessity exemption. The council also approved a new sign regulation ordinance (Ordinance 24-07) to comply with current law. Other actions included approving the insurance policy renewal, a budget amendment for a rapid flashing beacon, and a Precise Implementation Plan for a commercial property.
- Approved amended noise ordinance 24-06 (7-1)
- Approved sign regulation ordinance 24-07 (8-0)
- Approved 2024-2025 insurance policy renewal (8-0)
- Approved Resolution 24-R58 for $1,750 rapid flashing beacon (8-0)
- Approved Resolution 24-R57 writing off $3,926.85 delinquent taxes (8-0)
- Approved Park Use Permit for Dragon Days (8-0)
- Approved Trick or Treating date Oct 27, 3-6pm (7-1)
- Approved PIP for 80 Geneva Square commercial property (8-0)
Public Works Committee
The Lake Geneva Public Works Committee will review staff reports and discuss recommendations on 2024 streets payment requests, the 2025 budget request, and various infrastructure updates. No official council action will be taken, but the committee may make recommendations.
- 2024 Streets Payment Request for Alternative #1 (Kapur/DPW)
- 2023 Streets Payment Request for Alternative #4 (Kapur)
- 2025 Budget request (DPW)
- Discussion on monthly brush pickup during summer (Straube)
- Discussion on parking on North Street (Yager)
The Public Works Committee voted 4-0 to refer the Oak Terrace entrance issue to the Plan Commission for a recommendation, after discussing its noncompliance with curb cut ordinances. The committee also approved two street payment requests, continued brush pickup discussions to January, and tabled several items for further study. No final decisions were made on parking, bike lanes, or crosswalk changes.
- Approved 2024 Streets Payment Request #1 (4-0)
- Approved 2023 Streets Payment Request #4 (4-0)
- Referred Oak Terrace entrance to Plan Commission (4-0)
- Continued brush pickup discussion to January agenda (4-0)
- Continued parking on North Street to next month
- Continued crosswalk on Center Street to next month with new drawings (4-0)
- Continued on-street bike lanes discussion (4-0)
Common Council
The Common Council is holding a special budget workshop to hear department budget request presentations for the upcoming fiscal year. Presentations cover all city departments, from Library and Police to Finance and Outside Entities, with public comment allowed after each. No formal decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion and information-gathering session.
- Library budget request presentation at 9:00 am
- Police budget request presentation at 10:00 am
- Fire/EMS budget request presentation at 10:30 am
- Public Works/Parks/Cemetery/Streets budget request at 11:00 am
- Tourism Commission budget request at 2:30 pm
Cemetery Board
The Lake Geneva Cemetery Board will meet to discuss and recommend actions on monthly financial reports, cemetery pricing updates, and a logo update for rules. The board will also review attendance at a state cemetery conference and consider adding Pioneer Cemetery to the Pontem system.
- Approve Cemetery Board minutes from August 21, 2024
- Discussion/recommendation on updated cemetery pricing
- Update/discussion regarding Neal Aspinall logo for rules/regulations
- Discussion/recommendation on adding Pioneer Cemetery to Pontem
- Discussion/update regarding attendance at the September 2024 WI Alliance of Cemeteries conference
The Lake Geneva Cemetery Board met on September 18, 2024, and approved the August minutes. They discussed road repair issues in Oak Hill Cemetery, a logo update, and a proposed 10% annual price increase, but took no formal action on these items, deferring them to future meetings.
- Approved August 21, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Discussed Oak Hill Cemetery road repairs; continued to next meeting
- Discussed Neal Aspinall logo; continued to next meeting
- Discussed 10% annual price increase; Samantha Ingo to work on for next meeting
- Discussed using Burial Certificates instead of deeds; continued for further discussion
- Adjourned meeting (4-0)
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and make recommendations on several items, including temporary beer and wine licenses for local events, a resolution to write off $3,926.85 in uncollectible 2022 personal property taxes, amendments to the municipal code on aquatic plant/animal transport, and an ordinance to delete specific times when loud noise is prohibited. They will also consider a bid award for City Hall carpet replacement, Main Street patch repairs, and setting the 2024 Trick or Treat date. The meeting includes public comment limited to agenda items and approval of prior minutes.
- Temporary Class B Beer license for Oktoberfest (Oct 11-13, 2024) by Lake Geneva BID
- Temporary Class B Wine license for Downtown Wine Walk (Nov 3, 2024) by Downtown Lake Geneva Inc
- Resolution 24-R57: write-off of $3,926.85 in 2022 delinquent personal property taxes
- Ordinance 24-06: amending noise ordinance to delete prohibited times (continued)
- City Hall Carpet Replacement bid award to Glen Fern Construction; Main Street patch repairs (Warren St to Maxwell St, Cook St, Donian Park)
Board of Park Commissioners
The Board of Park Commissioners will discuss and possibly recommend spending $448,500 on parks and equipment, and consider a proposal from Glen Fern Construction for concrete pads at Lions Den concession. They will also schedule a budget workshop for 1, 3, and 5 year plans, and hear the Parks Superintendent's report on playground certification and grants.
- Discussion/recommendation on $448,500 for parks and equipment
- Proposal from Glen Fern Construction for Project 2024-13A Lions Den Concession Concrete Pads
- Scheduling a special budget workshop for 1, 3, and 5 year plans
- Playground certification inspection report
- Grant updates
Utility Commission
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission is meeting to approve financials and bills, discuss property disposal via auction, review proposals for office repairs and carpeting, consider a professional services agreement for the Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project, and review the preliminary 2025 capital project requests. The meeting also includes a closed session to discuss a ground lease with VB 500 II, LLC.
- Disposal of Utility property via auction
- Proposals for Office Drywall Repairs & Painting Project
- Proposals for Office Carpeting Replacement Project
- Professional Service Agreement with MSA Professional Services for Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project
- Preliminary draft of 2025 Utility Capital Project requests
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission approved several routine items, including August financials and bills, a Director's report, and disposal of utility property via auction. It also approved contracts for office drywall repairs and carpeting, a professional services agreement for the Big Foot Lift Station Force Main project, and directed staff to proceed on a closed-session ground lease matter. No action was taken on the preliminary 2025 capital projects list.
- Approved August 2024 financials (6-0)
- Approved August 2024 bills (6-0)
- Approved Director's report (6-0)
- Approved disposal of utility property via auction (6-0)
- Approved CertaPro Painters for office drywall repairs and painting (6-0)
- Approved Bob's Flooring for office carpeting replacement (6-0)
- Approved MSA Professional Services agreement for Big Foot Lift Station Force Main project (6-0)
- Directed staff to proceed on ground lease with VB 500 II LLC as discussed in closed session (6-0)
Plan Commission
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission is meeting to review and make recommendations on several items, including a downtown design review for an exterior building change, a condominium plat approval, and proposed amendments to the short-term rental ordinance. The commission will also discuss zoning code cleanup and comprehensive plan updates. Public comments are limited to agenda items, except for the public hearing on the short-term rental ordinance.
- Downtown Design Review for exterior changes at 647 W. Main St. (Tax Key ZOP00287)
- Recommendation on 3-unit condominium plat at 1590 Elkhorn Rd. (Tax Key ZA54900001)
- Public hearing on proposed amendments to zoning code section 98-206(9)(y) regarding short-term rentals
- Discussion of zoning code cleanup and comprehensive plan updates with Vandewalle
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission approved a downtown design review for exterior changes at 647 W. Main St. and recommended approval of a 3-unit condominium plat at 1590 Elkhorn Rd. The commission held a public hearing on proposed short-term rental ordinance amendments but took no final action, continuing the item to the October agenda for further staff revisions. The meeting also included a discussion-only update on zoning code cleanup and comprehensive plan updates.
- Approved downtown design review for 647 W. Main St. (4-0)
- Recommended approval of 3-unit condominium plat at 1590 Elkhorn Rd. (4-0)
- Closed public hearing on short-term rental ordinance amendments (4-0)
- Continued short-term rental ordinance discussion to October agenda (4-0)
- Approved minutes of August 19, 2024 meeting (4-0)
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee is meeting to review and approve the previous month's invoices, receive an update on the 2025 operating budget, and hear building and grounds and investments/donations reports. The agenda is routine financial and facilities oversight, with no major policy decisions listed.
- Review and approval of previous month's invoices
- 2025 operating budget update
- Building & grounds report
- Investments / donations report
- Investment presentations planned at next two board meetings
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Board is meeting to review and approve the previous meeting's minutes and monthly invoices, and to hear a staff presentation proposing an update to the library use policy. The board will also receive reports on building and grounds, investments and donations, the director's update on usage and events, and updates from the Friends group, city, and school board.
- Proposed update of library use policy (staff presentation by Stang)
- Review and approval of previous month's invoices
- Building and grounds report
- Investment and donations report
- Director's report on usage, stats, upcoming events, and current projects
Avian Committee
The Lake Geneva Avian Committee is meeting to discuss routine business including financial updates, partnerships, and a 2025 budget presentation. The agenda also includes wrap-ups of past events and planning for future activities. No official City Council action will be taken.
- 2025 Budget Presentation
- Financial Review and Update
- Partnerships, Funding Opportunities, and Potential Grants
- Swift Night Out Wrap-Up
- Birding Backpacks
The Avian Committee approved the August minutes, set the 2025 Swift Night Out for September 4, and discussed plans for a climate change program. They also reviewed the 2025 budget request and volunteer recognition plans. No formal votes were taken on these items.
- Approved August 13, 2024 meeting minutes (motion by Yager, second by Ross)
- Set Swift Night Out date for September 4, 2025
- Agreed to keep same program for 2025 Swift Night Out
- Moved climate change topics up for discussion (motion by Ross, second by Rodriguez)
- Recommended September 23 for volunteer recognition at Common Council meeting
Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee
The Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee will discuss lagoon options, including whether to replace piers, potential 2025 budget implications, and slip sizes. They will also review lagoon dredging bids and the recent Riviera Beach closure. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Discussion of lagoon sea wall and bid status
- Lagoon pier replacement options and 2025 budget
- Slip sizes: 18-foot max options and City history
- Lagoon dredging bids discussion
- Riviera Beach closure of 8/25/2024 through weekend by GLEA
The Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee voted to postpone pier replacement decisions to the next meeting and discussed seawall options, but took no final action on the seawall. A special meeting will be held in two weeks to gather more information. The committee also discussed the recent beach closure, clarifying that the Health Department, not GLEA, closed the beach.
- Approved minutes from July 9, 2024 (5-0)
- Postponed pier replacement decision to next meeting (4-1)
- Withdrew motion to recommend rip rap seawall option
- Scheduled special meeting in two weeks for further discussion
Historic Preservation Commission
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review minutes, discuss officer elections, and hear public comments. The agenda includes updates on local historic sites, a proposed new house at 833 Wisconsin Street, and the status of the Hillmoor Archaeological Site Survey. The commission will also discuss the 2025 city budget, a proposed historic ordinance update, and potential historic landmark nominations.
- Discussion of proposed new house at 833 Wisconsin Street by Eduard Babayev
- Update on Hillmoor Archaeological Site Survey and potential National Historic Landscape nomination
- Discussion of nominating Lake Geneva Public Library as National & State Historic Building
- Review of historic plaque program; plaques cost $258.48 each from Timberline Signs
- Discussion of Three Graces statue relocation from Flat Iron Park to Geneva Lake Museum
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will hold its regular meeting on September 9, 2024, with several action items. The council will consider a bid award for the Public Works Parking Lot project, a budget amendment for a rapid flashing beacon, and first readings of three ordinances affecting board compositions. The meeting will also include a closed session to discuss candidates for the City Clerk position.
- Bid award for Public Works Parking Lot to Poblocki Paving, not to exceed $123,179.00
- Resolution 24-R56: 2024 Budget Amendment for rapid flashing beacon on Main Street near Mill Street, not to exceed $15,000.00
- First Reading of Ordinance 24-08: amending Chapter 54, Board of Park Commissioners composition
- First Reading of Ordinance 24-09: amending Chapter 54, Tree Board composition
- First Reading of Ordinance 24-10: removing Park Board President from Plan Commission
The Common Council hired Lacey Reynolds as City Clerk and approved the terms of her offer letter, with Alderperson Fesenmaier abstaining. The council also approved ordinances amending the Park Board and Tree Board compositions, and a budget amendment for a rapid flashing beacon. A bid for the Public Works parking lot project was rejected, and an ordinance to change the Plan Commission composition was approved with amendments.
- Hired Lacey Reynolds as City Clerk (7-0, Fesenmaier abstained)
- Approved terms of offer letter for Lacey Reynolds (7-0, Fesenmaier abstained)
- Approved Ordinance 24-08 amending Park Board composition (8-0)
- Approved Ordinance 24-09 amending Tree Board composition (8-0)
- Approved Ordinance 24-10 amending Plan Commission composition (5-3)
- Rejected bid award for Public Works Parking Lot project to Poblocki Paving (5-3 against)
- Approved Resolution 24-R56 for rapid flashing beacon on Main Street (8-0)
- Approved temporary Class B wine/beer license for Rock the Lake (8-0)
Tourism Commission
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially act on tourism promotional grant requests from four organizations, including Oktoberfest, two trail races, and a balloon adventure event. The commission will also review grant procedures, application forms, and receive updates on promotional activities and hotel performance. No official City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Grant request: Oktoberfest (Lake Geneva Business Improvement District)
- Grant request: Abominable Trail Race (ASR Events, LLC)
- Grant request: Abominable Snow Race (ASR Events, LLC)
- Grant request: The Balloon Adventure (Santa Cause Inc. DBA 531 Fund)
- Discussion on revisions to Tourism Grant Application form
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission will consider approving the 2025 police and fire department budgets, as well as monthly bills totaling nearly $1.4 million. The agenda also includes personnel actions, a vehicle transfer, and policy approvals, followed by closed sessions for fire department personnel and the fire chief's contract.
- Approval of August 2024 police bills: $456,649.34 operating, $533,309.27 capital, total $989,958.61
- Approval of August 2024 fire bills: $317,504.31 operating, $89,090.94 equipment, total $406,595.25
- Confirmation of CSO Paige Scheel's status change to full-time officer pending medical/psychological exam
- Transfer of 2015 Ford Expedition from police to fire department
- Closed session for fire chief contract and fire department personnel discussions
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission approved the 2025 Police and Fire Department budgets, along with August 2024 bills for both departments. The commission also approved the full-time officer eligibility list, confirmed CSO Paige Scheel's status change to full-time officer, and transferred a 2015 Ford Expedition to the Fire Department. All votes were unanimous (5-0).
- Approved 2025 Police Department budget (5-0)
- Approved 2025 Fire Department budget (5-0)
- Approved August 2024 police bills totaling $989,958.61 (5-0)
- Approved August 2024 fire bills totaling $406,595.25 (5-0)
- Approved Full Time Officer Eligibility List (5-0)
- Confirmed CSO Paige Scheel's status change to Full Time Officer pending medical/psychological exam (5-0)
- Transferred 2015 Ford Expedition to Fire Department (5-0)
- Approved approaching Public/Private Partnership for Crown Victoria Restoration Project (5-0)
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District Board will meet to approve minutes, hear public comments, receive updates from the city and VISIT Lake Geneva, and review the treasurer's report including budget and bills. The executive director will report on Oktoberfest planning, recaps of Maxwell Street Days and Lemonade Crawl, and proposals for Main Street accreditation events, grants, and a merchandise co-op. The board will also enter closed session for annual review of board members.
- Treasurer report: chart of accounts, budget vs actuals, pay bills
- Oktoberfest planning update
- Proposal to add Main Street Accreditation celebration event from general marketing budget
- New grants eligibility: Vibrant Spaces & Small Business Development Grant Program
- Closed session for annual review of board of directors
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District Board approved the minutes, paid bills totaling $47,667.66, and discussed event recaps and future plans. The board also approved a motion to enter closed session for the annual review of board members, then adjourned.
- Approved minutes from last meeting (all in favor)
- Approved payment of bills totaling $47,667.66, including $30,320 for Christmas lights
- Approved motion to enter closed session for annual board review (all in favor)
- Approved motion to exit closed session (all in favor)
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee is meeting to consider employment matters, specifically interviewing candidates for the City Clerk position. The committee will go into closed session under Wisconsin Statutes to discuss candidate evaluations, then return to open session to take any action. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Closed session to interview candidates for City Clerk position
- Possible action on closed session items after returning to open session
- Public comments limited to 5 minutes on agenda items
The Personnel Committee met and, after a closed session to interview candidates, voted unanimously to recommend hiring Lacey Reynolds as City Clerk, pending an offer. The recommendation will go to the full council for final approval.
- Recommended approval of Lacey Reynolds as City Clerk (5-0)
- Moved into closed session to interview candidates (5-0)
- Returned to open session (5-0)
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and make recommendations on several items, including a temporary alcohol license for an event, a bid award for a public works parking lot, and amendments to noise and traffic ordinances. They will also review financial reports and approve minutes from the previous meeting.
- Temporary Class B wine/beer license for Rock the Lake, Oct 3, 5-11pm, Riviera Ballroom, 812 Wrigley Dr
- Bid award for Lake Geneva Public Works Parking Lot project
- Ordinance 24-06: removes time restrictions on loud/unnecessary noise prohibitions
- Ordinance 24-07: establishes four-way stop at Cadence Circle and Harmony Drive
- Pre-paid checks $55,872.61; regular checks $358,499.48
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library's Strategic Planning Committee is meeting to begin initial planning for the library's 130-year anniversary in 2025. The discussion will cover goals, budget and funding, staffing, volunteers, scheduling, events, and marketing for the celebration.
- Initial planning for the library's 130th anniversary in 2025
- Discussion of goals for the anniversary celebration
- Discussion of budget and funding for the event
- Discussion of staffing, volunteers, and schedule
- Discussion of events and marketing/public relations
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission will hold a budget workshop to discuss proposed 2025 budgets for the Police and Fire Departments. No formal decisions or votes will be taken at this meeting, which is intended for information gathering.
- Discussion of Police Department 2025 budget
- Discussion of Fire Department 2025 budget
Public Works Committee
The Lake Geneva Public Works Committee will discuss and recommend actions on the 2025 budget request from the Department of Public Works (DPW), as well as several traffic safety and infrastructure topics. No official council decisions will be made, but the committee may provide recommendations for future council action.
- Review of proposed construction for Big Foot Lift Station Forcemain Replacement Project
- Discussion of 2025 Budget request from DPW
- Review of traffic control at Geneva & Broad; Geneva & Center intersections
- Discussion of WisDOT repairs on Main Street and planning for HWY 50 construction
- Evaluation of sidewalk inventory and assessment
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will consider several items, including authorizing construction of the Big Foot Lift Station Forcemain Replacement Project and acting on a bid award for the Veterans Park Storage Building Project, which failed at committee. The council will also discuss proposed changes to municipal codes affecting the composition of the Board of Park Commissioners, Tree Board, and Plan Commission, as well as agreements for executive recruitment and short-term rental software. Public comments are limited to agenda items.
- Authorization for construction of Big Foot Lift Station Forcemain Replacement Project
- Bid award for Veterans Park Storage Building Project (recommendation failed at committee)
- Proposed code changes to Section 54-61 (Park Commissioners), 54-68 (Tree Board), 2-313 (Plan Commission)
- Master Services Agreement with GovHR, USA for executive recruitment for City Administrator
- Request for Proposal for Short-Term Rental Software
The Common Council approved the construction of the Big Foot Lift Station Forcemain Replacement Project and several other items, including changes to board compositions and a contract for executive recruitment. The bid award for the Veterans Park Storage Building was referred to the Park Board after failing in committee. All votes were 7-0 except one 6-1 vote on the Plan Commission composition change.
- Approved Big Foot Lift Station Forcemain Replacement Project (7-0)
- Referred Veterans Park Storage Building bid award to Park Board (7-0)
- Approved changes to Board of Park Commissioners composition (7-0)
- Approved changes to Tree Board composition (7-0)
- Approved Plan Commission composition change (6-1, Hoiland no)
- Approved Master Services Agreement with GovHR for executive recruitment (7-0)
- Approved RFP for short-term rental software (7-0)
- Approved PIP for new home at 817 N. Knoll Ln. (7-0)
Cemetery Board
The Lake Geneva Cemetery Board is meeting to discuss and potentially recommend updates to cemetery pricing, adding Pioneer Cemetery to the Pontem system, and attendance at a September conference. The board will also review financial and superintendent reports and approve prior meeting minutes. No City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Discussion/recommendation on updated cemetery pricing
- Discussion/recommendation on adding Pioneer Cemetery to Pontem
- Discussion/recommendation regarding attendance at September 2024 WI Alliance of Cemeteries conference
- Discussion/recommendation on monthly Comptroller Financial Report
- Approve Cemetery Board minutes from June 19, 2024
The Lake Geneva Cemetery Board approved its June 19, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0) and allowed a resident to present concerns about deteriorating roads in Oak Hill Cemetery. The board discussed but took no action on a logo for rules/regulations, recommendations on the Park Superintendent, adding Pioneer Cemetery to Pontom, and updated cemetery pricing. No substantive decisions were made beyond the minutes approval and the public comment exception.
- Approved June 19, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Allowed Joyce Cane to present concerns on Oak Hill Cemetery roads (4-0)
Tree Board
The Lake Geneva Tree Board is meeting to handle routine business: approving June minutes, hearing the arborist report, electing officers, and discussing fall planting. The board will also hear results from the Park Board about downtown Christmas tree lights. No official City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Approval of Tree Board minutes from June 18, 2024
- Arborist report by Jon Foster
- Election of officers
- Fall planting discussion
- Results from Park Board on downtown Christmas tree lights
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and make recommendations on several licenses and permits, including a carriage company, a liquor license for Fairfield Inn & Suites, and an Oktoberfest event permit. They will also consider a master services agreement for executive recruitment, proposed changes to municipal codes regarding board compositions, a bid award for a storage building, and a request for proposals for short-term rental software. The meeting includes review of the May 2024 Treasurer's Report and presentation of accounts totaling over $1 million in checks.
- Carriage Company License Application by Eclectic Shire Farm LLC
- Original Class A Beer/Class A Liquor license for Revir Hospitality Lake Geneva, LLC d/b/a Fairfield Inn & Suites
- Tier-2 Event Permit for Oktoberfest (Oct 11-13, 2024) on Broad and Geneva Streets
- Master Services Agreement with GovHR, USA for City Administrator recruitment
- Bid award for Veterans Park Storage Building Project; Pre-paid checks $611,489.52; Regular checks $464,591.41
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee approved several licenses and permits, including a carriage company license, a Class A beer/liquor license for Fairfield Inn & Suites, and a Tier-2 event permit for Oktoberfest. It also approved changes to municipal codes regarding the composition of the Board of Park Commissioners, Tree Board, and Plan Commission, with amendments to clarify residency and membership. The bid for the Veterans Park Storage Building Project failed, and a motion to approve an RFP for short-term rental software passed 4-1.
- Approved Carriage Company License for Eclectic Shire Farm LLC (5-0)
- Approved Class A Beer/Liquor License for Fairfield Inn & Suites (5-0)
- Approved Tier-2 Event Permit for Oktoberfest (5-0)
- Approved Master Services Agreement with GovHR for executive recruitment (5-0)
- Approved changes to Board of Park Commissioners composition, amended to 9 members with non-voting Mayor/Alderman (4-1)
- Approved changes to Tree Board composition, amended to 7 members with non-voting Mayor/Alderman (5-0)
- Approved changes to Plan Commission composition, amended to 'resident of the City' (3-2)
- Denied bid for Veterans Park Storage Building Project (2-3)
Board of Park Commissioners
The Board of Park Commissioners will discuss and make recommendations on several items, including a sponsorship fee form, a sponsorship wish list, reallocation of funds for the Never Say Never event, capital improvements budgeting for playgrounds and park facilities, impact fees, and an overview of parks. The board will also review minutes from previous meetings and hear reports from the Park Superintendent and committees.
- Discussion/recommendation on sponsorship fee form
- Discussion/recommendation on sponsorship wish list
- Discussion/recommendation on Never Say Never fund reallocation
- Capital improvements budgeting: playgrounds, rubber surface at Maple Park, Veterans Park Fields 1 & 2 fencing/dugouts
- Discussion/recommendation on impact fees
The Board of Park Commissioners elected Adam St. Marie as President (6-2) and Ann Esarco as Secretary (7-1). They approved a sponsorship fee form with a 20% discount for returning sponsors, and carried forward several agenda items, including the dog park and capital improvements budgeting. Attorney Dan Draper noted the board has $17,000 in impact fees to spend by year-end or return to the city.
- Elected Adam St. Marie as President (6-2)
- Elected Ann Esarco as Secretary (7-1)
- Approved sponsorship fee form with 20% discount for returning sponsors (unanimous)
- Carried forward agenda items 12-17 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from July 16, 2024 (unanimous)
Utility Commission
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission is meeting to approve routine items and discuss several infrastructure projects. Key actions include a potential contract award for the Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project, a proposed scope for surveying and engineering to replace culverts along the Well 5 access road, and a proposal from Verizon Connect for vehicle tracking services. The commission will also enter closed session to discuss a ground lease with VB 500 II, LLC.
- Potential award of Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project
- Proposed scope of services for surveying and engineering to replace culverts along Well 5 access road
- Proposal from Verizon Connect for vehicle and equipment tracking subscription services
- Closed session to discuss ground lease with VB 500 II, LLC on PIN NLY3200008
- Approval of July 2024 financials and bills
The commission approved the base bid from PTS Contractors Inc for the Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project, without the bid alternate, as recommended by staff. They also approved proposals for surveying and engineering services to replace culverts along the Well 5 access road, and approved a 12-month vehicle tracking subscription from Verizon Connect. The commission entered closed session to discuss a ground lease with VB 500 II LLC and later voted to proceed as discussed.
- Approved minutes from July 15, 2024 (6-0)
- Approved July 2024 financials (6-0)
- Approved July 2024 bills (6-0)
- Approved Director's report (6-0)
- Awarded Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement to PTS Contractors Inc (6-0)
- Approved Ellena Engineering and Kapur & Associates proposals for Well 5 culvert replacement (5-1)
- Approved Verizon Connect vehicle tracking subscription (6-0)
- Approved proceeding as discussed in closed session regarding ground lease with VB 500 II LLC (6-0)
Plan Commission
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission will hold public hearings and vote on a multi-tenant commercial building at 80 Geneva Square and zoning amendments for signage regulations. The meeting will also discuss updates on short-term rental regulations and a conceptual proposal for a brewery with a beer garden in the Planned Business Park.
- Precise Implementation Plan for 80 Geneva Square multi-tenant commercial building
- Zoning amendments to repeal and replace Article 8 (Signage Regulations)
- Conceptual proposal for Mashtun Brewery with beer garden at Geneva Parkway
- Public hearing on new home construction at 817 N Knoll Lane
- Land division application review for Stahli USA, Inc. at 200 Sheridan Springs Rd.
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission approved a Precise Implementation Plan (PIP) for a multi-tenant commercial building at 80 Geneva Square, a new home at 817 N Knoll Lane, and a CSM for Stahli USA. It also approved zoning code amendments for signage regulations. The commission reviewed short-term rental recommendations but took no action, and discussed a conceptual brewery proposal without voting.
- Approved PIP for multi-tenant commercial building at 80 Geneva Square (7-0)
- Approved PIP for new home at 817 N Knoll Lane (7-0)
- Approved CSM for Stahli USA land division (7-0)
- Approved signage regulations amendments (7-0)
- Approved minutes of July 15, 2024 meeting (7-0)
Public Works Committee
The Lake Geneva Public Works Committee is holding a special work session to receive a presentation from Rick Kline of TAPCO about stoplights and crosswalk signals. The agenda includes an open question-and-answer session for committee members and the public. No official council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Presentation on stoplights and crosswalk signals by Rick Kline, TAPCO
- Open Q&A session for committee and public
Geneva Lake Environmental Agency
The Geneva Lake Environmental Agency board will hold its monthly business meeting, covering routine approvals of minutes and financial reports, followed by possible actions on administrative items like staffing, the proposed budget, and lease renewal, as well as updates on water quality and aquatic invasive species projects. The meeting is open to the public with a 5-minute comment period.
- Action on July 2024 income statement and balance sheet
- Proposed budget and municipal funding allocation request
- Lease renewal for 2025
- City of Lake Geneva lagoon and CD3 unit updates
- Aquatic plant survey and starry stonewort update
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will hold its regular meeting, addressing routine approvals and several policy items. Key actions include a first reading of an ordinance to allow leashed dogs on pathways at Harold Fritz Veterans Park, discussion of rejecting two carpet replacement bids, and consideration of a land acquisition proposal from Alliant Energy. The council will also discuss a possible advisory referendum on selling part of the Hillmoor property for a new YMCA or museum, and proposed changes to the composition of city boards.
- First reading of Ordinance 24-05 to permit leashed dogs on pathways at Harold Fritz Veterans Park
- Discussion/action on rejecting two proposals for City Hall Carpet Replacement (Project 2024-14)
- Land acquisition proposal from Alliant Energy for ~362 sq ft near substation on Parcel ZA 312100002
- Advisory referendum question on potential sale of Hillmoor property for YMCA/museum
- Proposed changes to composition of Park Commissioners, Tree Board, and Plan Commission
Historic Preservation Commission
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review minutes, hear public comments, and discuss various historic preservation matters. Key topics include updates to the City's Historic Preservation Ordinance, development of a new Local Historic Landmark Application Form, and the status of nominations for properties like The Riviera. The commission will also receive updates on grants, walking tours, and completed repairs at the Historic Railroad Site.
- Discussion of Chapter 34 Historic Preservation Ordinance updates and new Local Historic Landmark Application Form
- Status of nomination applications for The Riviera as a Local Historic Landmark
- Update on Paula Porubcan's Certified Local Government Grant for Hillmoor Archaeological Survey and potential National Historic Landscape nomination
- Completed repairs at Historic Railroad Site, including paver resetting, with invoice payment approved
- Historic Plaque Program plaques cost $258.48 each from Timberline Signs
Avian Committee
The Lake Geneva Avian Committee is meeting to handle routine business: approving minutes, electing officers, reviewing finances, and discussing partnerships, grants, and the 2025 budget. They will also get updates on Purple Martins, volunteers, and the upcoming Swift Night Out event on September 5.
- Election of officers
- Financial review and update
- 2025 budget process discussion
- Swift Night Out event on September 5
- Birding backpacks program update
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Library Board’s Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee will meet to approve last month’s invoices, receive a 2025 operating budget update, and hear the building and grounds report. No new decisions are scheduled; the meeting is procedural.
The Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee recommended board approval of June invoices totaling $100,199.78 and July invoices totaling $81,241.61, both passed unanimously. The 2025 operating budget draft is under review with the city comptroller and will go to the full board next month. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned at 3:29 p.m.
- Recommended approval of June invoices totaling $100,199.78 (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of July invoices totaling $81,241.61 (unanimous)
- Adjourned at 3:29 p.m. (unanimous)
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Board is meeting to review and approve July invoices, hear reports on finances, building, and grounds, and discuss the 2025 operating budget. The director will also report on a capital fund expenditure for holds pickup lockers and a peer library comparison algorithm. The board will schedule a meeting for 2025's 130th anniversary planning.
- Review and approval of July invoices
- 2025 Operating Budget discussion
- 2024 Capital Fund expenditure: holds pickup lockers
- Peer library comparison algorithm from SCLS and PLLS
- Schedule August meeting for 130th anniversary planning
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District Board of Directors is meeting for routine business: approving minutes, hearing public comments, and receiving updates from the mayor, VISIT Lake Geneva, the treasurer, and the executive director. The board will review financial reports and pay bills, and get updates on the Lemonade Crawl, Maxwell Street Days, Oktoberfest, and beautification efforts. No City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Treasurer report: balance sheet, budget vs actuals, pay bills
- Lemonade Crawl update
- Maxwell Street Days update
- Oktoberfest update
- Beautification update
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District board approved the previous meeting's minutes and a list of bills totaling $13,402.24, including salaries, subscriptions, and event-related expenses. The board also received updates on upcoming events like the Lemonade Crawl and Maxwell Street Days, and discussed potential fall promotions and mural lighting.
- Approved minutes from last meeting (all in favor)
- Approved bills totaling $13,402.24 (all in favor)
- Adjourned meeting at 9:49am (all in favor)
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will consider several license and permit applications for upcoming events, including a temporary alcohol license, a fireworks display, a public event permit, and two alcohol premises extensions. They will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and review accounts payable totaling over $451,000.
- Temporary Class B Wine/Beer license for St. Francis de Sales Parish Fall Festival, Sept 29, 148 W Main St
- Fireworks application by Badger Student Council for Oct 4, approx 9:00 pm
- Public Event Permit for Friends of Hillmoor Star Party, Oct 3, Hillmoor clubhouse parking lot
- Alcohol premises extension for American Legion Post 24 Car Show, Sept 7
- Alcohol premises extension for Lake City Social Cars & Company fundraiser, Sept 22
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee approved all agenda items unanimously (5-0), including temporary alcohol licenses, a fireworks permit, a public event permit, and alcohol license premises extensions. It also approved pre-paid checks totaling $53,870.86 and regular checks totaling $397,267.47. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned after six minutes.
- Approved temporary Class B wine/beer license for St. Francis de Sales Parish Fall Festival (5-0)
- Approved fireworks application for Badger Student Council (5-0)
- Approved public event permit for Friends of Hillmoor Star Party, amended to add rain date (5-0)
- Approved alcohol license premises extension for American Legion Post 24 Car Show (5-0)
- Approved alcohol license premises extension for Lake City Social fundraiser (5-0)
- Approved pre-paid checks of $53,870.86 (5-0)
- Approved regular checks of $397,267.47 (5-0)
Personnel Committee
The Lake Geneva Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss updates on the City Administrator search and the City Clerk posting, along with committee chair packet materials. They will also approve minutes from previous meetings and set future agenda items.
- Discussion/Update regarding the City Administrator Search
- Discussion/Update regarding the City Clerk posting
- Discussion regarding Committee Chair packet materials
- Approval of minutes from July 1, June 28, and July 23 meetings
- Future agenda items include reviewing job descriptions and committee guidelines
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will convene at Lake Geneva City Hall with no official decisions or votes planned. Members will receive reports from standing committees, commissions, and board representatives, but no new business or public hearings are listed on the agenda.
The Committee of the Whole received a presentation on tourism's economic impact, discussed short-term rental ordinance revisions (scheduled for a public hearing on August 19), and welcomed new Interim City Administrator David DeAngelis. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and procedural.
- Approved minutes from July 1, 2024 (unanimous)
- Agreed to request City Attorney's written opinion on statute 66.1014 regarding short-term rentals
- Scheduled short-term rental ordinance revisions for public hearing on August 19
- Noted FLR will revisit Avenu contract recommendation on August 20
- Adjourned at 7:25 p.m.
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council is holding a special meeting with a closed session to consider employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data for the Interim City Administrator position. The council may take action on items discussed in the closed session upon returning to open session. The agenda is otherwise procedural, including public comments and adjournment.
- Closed session to discuss Interim City Administrator position
- Possible action on closed session items after returning to open session
- Public comments limited to 5 minutes on agenda items
The Common Council held a special meeting and voted to hire Dave de Angelis as Interim City Administrator for 20 hours per week, at a rate specified in the contract, pending a background check, with the Mayor authorized to sign the contract. The vote was 5-1, with Alderperson Hoiland voting no. The council also went into closed session to discuss the interim position and returned to open session before taking action.
- Hired Dave de Angelis as Interim City Administrator for 20 hrs/week, rate per contract, pending background check (5-1, Hoiland no)
- Authorized Mayor to sign the interim administrator contract (included in motion)
- Moved into closed session to discuss interim city administrator position (6-0)
- Returned to open session (6-0)
Personnel Committee
The Lake Geneva Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially recommend changes to the City of Lake Geneva Organizational Chart. The committee will also enter closed session to consider candidates for an Interim City Administrator, with possible action taken upon returning to open session.
- Discussion/Recommendation regarding the City of Lake Geneva Organizational Chart
- Closed session to consider potential candidates for an Interim City Administrator
- Public comments limited to 5 minutes on agenda items
The Personnel Committee voted 5-0 to recommend adding a Parks Director under the City Administrator, moving Cemetery Operations, the Sexton, and the Arborist Lead under that director, and keeping the Parking Manager under the City Administrator. They also voted 5-0 to offer the interim City Administrator position to Dave De Angelis after closed session. The organizational chart discussion will continue at the next meeting.
- Approved motion to keep Parking Manager under City Administrator (5-0)
- Approved motion to add Parks Director under City Administrator (5-0)
- Approved motion to move Cemetery Operations and Sexton under Parks Director (5-0)
- Approved motion to move Arborist Lead under Parks Director (5-0)
- Approved motion to continue organizational chart discussion to next meeting (5-0)
- Approved motion to offer interim City Administrator position to Dave De Angelis (5-0)
Public Works Committee
The Lake Geneva Public Works Committee will review traffic control at key intersections, sidewalk inventory, and potential bike lanes. Updates include Main Street repairs, Hwy 50 construction, and a proposed speed limit change near Hillmoor. The meeting will also discuss native plantings and crosswalk locations.
- Traffic control discussion for Geneva & Broad; Geneva & Center intersections
- Sidewalk inventory update
- Proposed 25 mph speed limit near Hillmoor
- Native plantings in boulevards and city-owned property
- On-street bike lanes discussion
The Public Works Committee met on July 22, 2024, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. They tabled several items for further discussion, including a traffic signal push button study, on-street bike lanes, and a crosswalk on Center Street near Brunk Pavilion. The committee also referred the condition of Bloomfield Road to the Mayor for conversations with neighboring towns. No final decisions were made on these items.
- Approved previous meeting minutes (4-0)
- Tabled crosswalk push button study; directed staff to set up a Zoom work session (4-0)
- Tabled on-street bike lanes discussion to next month (4-0)
- Tabled Center Street crosswalk discussion; requested parking cost data (4-0)
- Referred Bloomfield Road condition to Mayor for talks with neighboring towns (4-0)
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will hold a public hearing and vote on special assessments for sidewalk improvements tied to the 2024 Street Improvement Project. The council will also consider several conditional use permits, a budget amendment, and other routine items. A closed session is scheduled to discuss an intergovernmental agreement with the Town of Bloomfield.
- Resolution 24-R54: special assessments for sidewalk improvements
- Conditional Use Permit for commercial lodging at 190 E. Main St.
- Conditional Use Permit for new home at 1310 W. Main St.
- Conditional Use Permit for home addition at 1420 W. Main St.
- Resolution 24-R50: budget amendment for video laryngoscopes purchase
The Common Council approved Resolution 24-R54, authorizing special assessments for sidewalk improvements as part of the 2024 Street Improvement Project, with Alderperson Frame voting no. The council also approved several other items, including a budget amendment for video laryngoscopes, a 2024 budget timeline, an ordinance allowing leashed dogs in Veterans Park, and three conditional use permits. The meeting included a public hearing on the assessments and a closed session on an intergovernmental agreement.
- Approved Resolution 24-R54 for sidewalk special assessments (6-1)
- Approved 2024 Budget Amendment for video laryngoscopes purchase (7-0)
- Approved 2024 Budget Timeline (7-0)
- Approved Ordinance 24-05 allowing leashed dogs in Veterans Park (7-0)
- Approved CUP for commercial indoor lodging at 190 E. Main St. (7-0)
- Approved CUP for new single-family home at 1310 W. Main St. (7-0)
- Approved CUP for home addition at 1420 W. Main St. (7-0)
- Approved appointment of Dana Furlo to Board of Park Commissioners (7-0)
Geneva Lake Environmental Agency
The Geneva Lake Environmental Agency board will hold its monthly business meeting, covering routine approvals of June financial reports and staff updates. They will also discuss water quality and aquatic invasive species efforts, including a harbormaster introduction and lagoon update, as well as potential grants and projects.
- Action on June 2024 income statement and balance sheet
- Discussion of City of Lake Geneva lagoon update and Riviera dumpster issue
- Possible action on CD renewal
- Grants/projects: macroinvertebrate survey, aquatic plant PI, nearshore fisheries survey
- Environmental Educational Foundation Grant
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and make recommendations on several liquor license renewals and new applications, event permits, a budget amendment for video laryngoscopes, the 2024 budget timeline, a treasurer's report, surplus equipment sales, and a proposed ordinance about dog leashes at Veterans Park. They will also approve minutes and review accounts payable.
- Renewal Class B Beer/Class C Wine license for House of Bogini LLC, 152 Center St
- Original Class B Beer/Class C Wine license for Porch LG LLC, 832 Geneva St Unit 2
- Public Event Permit for Amorphic Beer Pop-Up Beer Garden at Flat Iron Park Gazebo, Aug 3
- Resolution 24-R50: 2024 Budget Amendment for Video Laryngoscopes Purchase
- Ordinance 24-05: amending dog leash rules at Veterans Park
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee approved a revised 2024 budget timeline, a budget amendment for video laryngoscopes, and several licenses and permits. It also amended Ordinance 24-05 to allow dogs on leashes only on pathways in Veterans Park, then approved the amended ordinance. All votes were 4-0.
- Approved amended Ordinance 24-05 allowing dogs on leashes on pathways only in Veterans Park (4-0)
- Approved Resolution 24-R50 budget amendment for video laryngoscopes (4-0)
- Approved revised 2024 budget timeline with special Council Budget Workshop on Sept 19 (4-0)
- Approved renewal Class B Beer/Class C Wine license for House of Bogini (4-0)
- Approved original Class B Beer/Class C Wine license for The Porch (4-0)
- Approved public event permit for Amorphic Beer Pop-Up Beer Garden on Aug 3 (4-0)
- Approved Tier-1 event permits for Lemonade Crawl and Maxwell Street Days (4-0)
- Approved $286,178.67 in checks (pre-paid and regular) (4-0)
Board of Park Commissioners
The Board of Park Commissioners will discuss and potentially approve sponsorship fees and forms, review minutes from the Tree Board and Avian Committee, and hear updates from the YMCA and a UW-Madison speaker on the Lake Geneva park system. The meeting is primarily informational and procedural, with no official City Council action expected.
- Approval of sponsorship fees and form
- Recognition of Arborist Jon Foster
- Presentation of Park Superintendent Monthly Report
- YMCA quarterly update
- Speaker Gavin Luter from UniverCity Alliance, UW-Madison, on park system review
The Board of Park Commissioners approved a motion to offer a 20% discount on sponsorship fees to renewing sponsors. The board also approved the June 18, 2024 minutes conditionally, with future agenda items to be addressed. No vote was taken on the UW UniverCity Alliance partnership, and a special meeting may be scheduled.
- Approved 20% discount for renewing sponsors (motion by Esarco, seconded by Fueredi)
- Approved June 18, 2024 minutes conditionally (motion by Yager, seconded by Fueredi)
Utility Commission
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting, primarily to approve routine items like minutes, financials, and bills. The main substantive items are a presentation of the 2023 annual financial report and management letter by the auditor, and discussion/action on a proposal from Lexipol to draft policy and procedural manuals for the utility.
- Presentation of 2023 Annual Financial Report and Management Letter by Lauterbach & Amen, LLP
- Discussion/Action on proposal from Lexipol to draft policy and procedural manuals
- Approval of June 2024 Financials
- Approval of June 2024 Bills
- Approve minutes from June 17, 2024
Plan Commission
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission is meeting to review several conditional use permits, site plans for murals, and a draft update to the city's sign code. They will also hear an update on the annual comprehensive plan amendment process, which received no applications. Public comments are limited to agenda items.
- CUP for house addition at 1420 W. Main Street (Cindy Kuesis)
- CUP for new single-family house at 1310 W. Main Street (Robert and Veronica Loquercio)
- CUP for commercial indoor lodging at 190 E. Main Street (Neil Gill)
- Site plan reviews for murals at 120 and 214 Broad Street
- Draft update to City of Lake Geneva Sign Code
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission approved all agenda items, including conditional use permits for a house addition at 1420 W. Main Street, a new single-family house at 1310 W. Main Street, and commercial indoor lodging at 190 E. Main Street. It also approved extraterritorial jurisdiction review for a CSM at W3459 Hwy 50, and site plan reviews for murals at 120 and 214 Broad Street. No action was taken on the draft sign code update.
- Approved ETJ review for CSM at W3459 Hwy 50 (6-0)
- Approved CUP for house addition at 1420 W. Main Street (6-0)
- Approved CUP for new single-family house at 1310 W. Main Street (6-0)
- Approved CUP for commercial indoor lodging at 190 E. Main Street (6-0)
- Approved site plan review for mural at 120 Broad Street (6-0)
- Approved site plan review for mural at 214 Broad Street (6-0)
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Library Board will meet to approve June invoices, hear a staff presentation on circulation services, and consider a request from Inspiration Ministries to use the library patio for a summer fundraiser. Reports from the finance, building and grounds, president, director, and other committees will also be given.
- Review and approval of June invoices
- Patio usage request from Inspiration Ministries for summer fundraiser
- Staff presentation on Circulation Services
- County trustee appointments
- Friends of the LGPL report
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including the 2025 budget timeline, approval of June bills, and a possible land acquisition for future police and fire stations. The commission will also consider an intergovernmental agreement with Antioch Fire Department and approve various policies and personnel hires.
- Approval of police bills totaling $447,032.42 for June 2024
- Approval of fire bills totaling $346,210.37 for June 2024
- Discussion and possible recommendation for land acquisition at SE corner of Townline Road and Highway 120 (parcel ZSB 00331)
- Approval of Resolution 24-R50 for $89,100.00 budget amendment for Video Laryngoscopes
- Approval of hiring Paramedics Emily Trela and Hunter Christman, and EMT Ayden Jones
Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency
The Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency Board of Directors meeting scheduled for July 10, 2024, was canceled. The agenda is otherwise procedural, covering routine items such as roll call, public comments, approval of minutes, bills, and the commander's report.
- Meeting canceled
- Public comments by email due by 8:00 A.M. on meeting date
- Approval of minutes from June 12, 2024 meeting
- Approval of bills and treasurer's report
- Commander's report
Historic Preservation Commission
The commission will discuss updates to the Historic Preservation Ordinance and the status of local historic landmark nominations. Members will also review repairs for the Lake Geneva Historic Railroad Site and the Three Graces statue.
- Proposal from Juan Aceves for cleanup and repairs to the Railroad Turntable, Engine House, and Water Tower
- Review of Historic Plaque Program costs at $258.48 per plaque from Timberline Signs
- Discussion of the Hillmoor Archaeological Survey grant application
- Updates on the relocation and repair of the Three Graces statue
- Discussion of the City of Lake Geneva Chapter 34 - Historic Preservation Ordinance
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission discussed a request to demolish a house at 833 Wisconsin Street and build a new one, providing feedback on historic preservation. They approved a proposal from Juan Aceves for clean-up and repairs to the paver footprints at the Historic Railroad Site, which has been completed. The commission also denied a historic plaque request for 953 Henry Street and approved notifying Jim Sherin about a sign for the Railroad Site.
- Approved Juan Aceves' proposal for Railroad Site paver repairs (unanimous)
- Denied historic plaque request for 953 Henry Street
- Approved notifying Jim Sherin about a sign for Railroad Site layout
- Renewed membership in Wisconsin Association of Historic Preservation Commissions for $40.00
Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee
The Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee will meet to discuss potential pier system upgrades and ongoing dredging projects for the lagoon. The committee will receive a presentation from Summerset Marine Construction regarding eco-friendly pier options and review the status of pending dredging bids.
- Presentation by Summerset Marine Construction on lagoon pier systems
- Discussion of lagoon dredging bids
- Approval of June 11, 2024, meeting minutes
Avian Committee
The Lake Geneva Avian Committee meets to review 2024 finances, discuss the Bird City application status, and review potential grants and partnerships. The committee will also discuss community outreach events including Monarch Palooza and birding backpacks for area hotels.
- Updated Financial Review for 2024
- Bird City Application Status
- Partnerships and Potential Grants
- Monarch Palooza/Purple Martin Open House
- Birding Backpacks for Area Hotels
The Avian Committee discussed creating 10 hotel birding backpacks funded by a $1,000 Rotary Club commitment and considered requesting $3,000 from the Tourism Commission for marketing, but no vote was taken. They also reviewed a healthy budget, noted the Bird City Wisconsin application status is pending with a new contact, and celebrated successful Monarch Palooza and Cicada Day events. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the May minutes.
- Approved May 2024 meeting minutes (motion by Rodriguez, seconded by Gallo)
- Discussed creating 10 hotel birding backpacks at ~$100 each, no vote taken
- Considered requesting $3,000 from Tourism Commission for marketing, no vote taken
- Agreed to select a past book for Story Book Trail signs, not create a new one
- Planned to recognize volunteers at Common Council meeting on September 23
Tourism Commission
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission will meet on July 8, 2024, to discuss promotional grants, review financial updates regarding room tax dollars, and hear promotional updates from VISIT Lake Geneva, the Business Improvement District, and Heather Jones. The commission will also consider grant requests for the Placer.ai data service software and the Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival, alongside reviewing grant procedures and final event evaluations.
- Consideration of Tourism Promotional Grant Program request for Placer.ai data service software for downtown events by Lake Geneva Downtown Improvement District
- Consideration of Tourism Promotional Grant Program request for Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival by Nei-Turner Media Group, Inc.
- Written financial update on room tax dollars collected, financials, current budget, and unpaid tourism grants
- Final event evaluation for Women's Weekend 2024
- Discussion and possible action concerning revisions to the tourism grant application webpage
Common Council
The Common Council will consider hiring GovHR USA/GovTemp USA to assist in selecting an interim and permanent City Administrator. The Council will also review a contract for lagoon seawall repairs, an archaeological survey agreement for the Hillmoor property, and a proposal to increase the Comptroller's purchasing authority to $24,000.
- Contract with CK Contracting for Lagoon Seawall Repairs
- Agreement with Wisconsin Historical Society for Hillmoor Property archaeological survey
- Selection of GovHR USA / GovTemp USA for City Administrator recruitment
- Increase of Comptroller purchasing authority to $24,000
- Public Event Permit for Church in the Park at Flat Iron Park
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Lake Geneva Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss a land acquisition proposal from Wisconsin Power and Light Company and review recruitment services for a new City Administrator. The committee will also consider various event permits, including those for Venetian Fest and a concert at the Riviera Ballroom. Additionally, members will review the 2024 budget timeline and the April 2024 Treasurer's report.
- Land acquisition of 362 square feet by Wisconsin Power and Light Company
- Recruitment services for Permanent and Interim City Administrator
- Public Event Permit for Lakeland Community Church's 'Church in the Park'
- Temporary Operator Licenses for Venetian Fest
- Approval of $579,424.09 in total pre-paid and regular checks
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Strategic Planning Committee will meet to discuss updates and feedback regarding the Flexible Facilities Grant application. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 1, 2024, at 10:00 am in the Smith Meeting Room.
- Updates/feedback on Flexible Facilities Grant application
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially take action on hiring recruitment firms for a permanent and/or interim City Administrator, and to consider candidates for an interim City Administrator. The committee will go into closed session for these discussions, then return to open session for any action. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Closed session to discuss potential firms for recruitment and selection services for a Permanent City Administrator and/or an Interim City Administrator
- Closed session to consider potential candidates for an Interim City Administrator
- Possible action on items discussed in closed session upon return to open session
The Personnel Committee unanimously recommended contracting with GovTempUSA for recruitment services to select both an interim and a permanent City Administrator. The recommendation will go to the Finance, Licensing and Registration committee and the City Council for final approval. The committee also held a closed session to discuss potential firms and candidates.
- Recommended contract with GovTempUSA for interim and permanent City Administrator search (unanimous)
- Held closed session to discuss recruitment firms and interim candidates (unanimous)
Committee of the Whole
The Lake Geneva Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive a presentation on the impact of Alzheimer's disease and dementia in the community, along with reports from standing committees and other boards. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Presentation on 'The Impact of Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia in Our Community' by Olivia Deering
- Reports from Finance, Personnel, Public Works, and Piers/Harbor/Lakefront committees
- Reports from various boards including Police and Fire Commission, Plan Commission, and Library Board
- Updates from external organizations like VISIT Lake Geneva and Geneva Lake Museum
The Committee of the Whole approved the June 3, 2024 minutes (7-0) and heard public comments on short-term rentals and Hillmoor. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of reports from standing committees and boards, including updates on the City Administrator search, lagoon dredging, and park projects.
- Approved June 3, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes (7-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:15pm (7-0)
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee is meeting to review the interview process and conduct closed-session interviews with three firms vying for a recruitment contract to fill the City Administrator position. Following the interviews, the committee may reconvene in open session to take action on the discussions. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e) for interviews and negotiations with potential recruitment firms
- Interview with GovHR/GovTemps, Mike Earl, Senior Vice President at 11:30 AM
- Interview with PAA, Dave Bretl, Vice President at 11:45 AM
- Interview with WCMA/ICMA, Linda Kutchenriter, WCMA Senior Advisor at 12:00 PM
- Motion to return to open session and take action on discussed items
Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee
This meeting of the Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee was canceled. No official action was taken or discussed.
Tourism Commission
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss and potentially act on a tourism promotional grant request from the Lake Geneva Downtown Improvement District for Placer.ai data service software, which would be used for downtown events. The meeting includes public comments limited to agenda items and will adjourn after the discussion.
- Discussion/Action on Tourism Promotional Grant Program and Requests
- Placer.ai data service software for downtown events; Lake Geneva Downtown Improvement District
The Tourism Commission discussed a $5,000 grant request from the Lake Geneva BID to partner with Walworth County Visitors Bureau for access to Pacer.ai data software. After discussion, the commission voted 3-1 to table the decision until July 8, 2024, to review a written data-sharing agreement with the BID. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Tabled $5,000 Pacer.ai grant to BID until July 8, 2024 (3-1, Howell voting No)
- Adjourned meeting at 2:46 p.m.
Public Works Committee
The committee will discuss several infrastructure items including road conditions on Main Street and Bloomfield Road. Members will also consider bike lanes, speed limit changes, and accessibility at Bigfoot Beach.
- Discussion on on-street bike lanes
- Recommendation on selling surplus equipment and logs via Wisconsin Surplus Auction
- WisDOT planning report for HWY 50 project
- Condition of Bloomfield Road at Edwards towards Wells Street
- Speed limit change to 25 MPH in front of Hillmoor
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will review the 2023 Annual Financial Report and Management Letter from Lauterbach & Amen, LLP, and consider a resolution to accept them. The agenda also includes a public hearing on the Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendment Process, a proposed ordinance change to the Personnel Committee, and several license renewals and appointments.
- Resolution 24-R49: Accept 2023 Annual Financial Report and Management Letter
- Resolution 24-R48: Approve Public Participation Plan for Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendment Process
- Ordinance 24-01: Amend Section 2-49(3) Personnel Committee of City Code
- Appointment of James Marquardt to Utility Commission (term to expire Oct 1, 2024)
- Consent agenda: renewals for sidewalk cafes, creamery, liquor/beer licenses, massage establishments, taxi company, and public event permit for Star Party at Hillmoor
The Common Council unanimously accepted the 2023 City of Lake Geneva Annual Financial Report and Management Letter via Resolution 24-R49, following a presentation by the auditing firm. The council also approved a consent agenda with multiple license renewals and a public event permit, forwarded an ordinance amending the Personnel Committee section to the City Attorney for review, accepted the June 18 bills report, and appointed James Marquardt to the Utility Commission. All actions were unanimous.
- Accepted 2023 Annual Financial Report and Management Letter (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda with license renewals and Star Party event permit (unanimous)
- Forwarded Ordinance 24-01 to City Attorney for review (unanimous)
- Accepted pre-paid and regular bills from June 18, 2024 (unanimous)
- Appointed James Marquardt to Utility Commission (unanimous)
Lake Geneva Economic Development Corporation
The Lake Geneva Economic Development Corporation board will meet to approve minutes, review financial reports, and discuss the Mashtun Brewery offer to purchase property in the Lake Geneva Business Park. The meeting also includes introductions and updates on long-term projects and community partnerships.
- Mashtun Brewery offer to purchase
- Approve minutes of April 2024 meeting
- Review and approve bills for payment
- Treasurer's report
- Long-term projects discussion
Geneva Lake Environmental Agency
The Geneva Lake Environmental Agency board will hold its monthly business meeting, covering routine approvals of minutes and financial reports, plus discussions on water quality, grants, and community outreach. Public comments are limited to 5 minutes.
- Action on May 2024 Income Statement and Balance Sheet
- Discussion on Mobile CD3 Unit and City of Lake Geneva Lagoon Update
- Chapter 30 Ordinance Update
- Macroinvertebrate Survey, Aquatic Plant PI, Nearshore Fisheries Survey
- Exotic Pet Surrender Event 2025
The Geneva Lake Environmental Agency board approved a motion to cover a dumpster at the Lake Geneva Riviera beach area, continue MST testing for E. coli, and charge the City of Lake Geneva for the tests. The board also approved routine financial reports and meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; several items were discussed without action.
- Approved May 16, 2024 board meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved May 2024 Income Statement (unanimous)
- Approved May 2024 Balance Sheet (unanimous)
- Approved May 2024 Treasurer's report (unanimous)
- Approved Intern's and Director's reports for May-June 2024 (unanimous)
- Approved motion to cover dumpster, continue MST testing, and charge City of Lake Geneva for tests (unanimous)
Cemetery Board
The Cemetery Board will discuss recommendations for updated cemetery pricing and a request to move the purchase of a new columbarium from 2027 to 2024. The meeting also includes discussions on changing the regular meeting time and adding Pioneer Cemetery to Pontem.
- Recommendation on updated cemetery pricing
- Request to move new columbarium purchase from 2027 to 2024
- Proposal to change meeting time from 4:30 pm to 4:00 pm
- Discussion on adding Pioneer Cemetery to Pontem
- Review of monthly Comptroller Financial Report
The Lake Geneva Cemetery Board voted 5-0 to permanently change its regular meeting time from 4:30 to 4:00 pm on the third Wednesday of each month. The board also approved pursuing the use of the existing Department of Public Works/Cemetery truck logo for cemetery rules and regulations. Several items were discussed but not decided, including financial reports, burial data, a new columbarium purchase (staying in 2027 budget), adding Pioneer Cemetery to the Pontom system, and updated cemetery pricing.
- Approved May 15, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
- Changed regular meeting time to 4:00 pm (5-0)
- Approved pursuing use of Neal Aspinall logo for cemetery rules/regulations (5-0)
- Adjourned at 5:15 pm (5-0)
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee will discuss updates to the City Administrator job description and the process for posting and hiring for the position. Members will also discuss recommendations regarding organizational chart updates.
- Update on the City Administrator Job Description
- Process for posting and hiring the City Administrator
- Organizational Chart Updates
Tree Board
The Tree Board will discuss developer compliance regarding tree planting on terraces and the enforcement of related ordinances. Members will also consider approving a letter to the Park Board and BID, and review a request to document trees in Hillmoor Park.
- Discussion on developer tree planting on terraces
- Approval of a letter to the Park Board and BID
- Request to document trees in Hillmoor Park
- Arborist report from Jon Foster
The Tree Board approved a letter to the Park Board about placing lighting in downtown city trees, which was submitted for discussion. The board also approved the May 14 minutes and discussed future changes to developer agreements for tree planting oversight.
- Approved May 14 meeting minutes
- Approved letter to Park Board on downtown tree lighting
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss various permit and license renewals for local businesses and events. The committee will also consider two ordinances regarding the Personnel Committee and Appointed Officials.
- Renewal of Sidewalk Café permits for nine local businesses
- Renewal of Class A, B, and C liquor and beer licenses
- Event permit for Forebeck Legacy Half Marathon at Flat Iron Park
- Discussion of Ordinance 24-01 and Ordinance 24-04 regarding municipal code
- Presentation of $284,377.76 in regular checks and $33,733.43 in pre-paid checks
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee approved multiple license renewals and event permits, including a conditional approval for the Forebeck Legacy Half Marathon. Ordinance 24-04, amending appointed officials, was continued (tabled) after a 3-2 vote. All other items were approved unanimously.
- Approved sidewalk café permit renewals for 9 businesses (5-0)
- Approved creamery permit renewal for Scoops Ice Cream Inc (5-0)
- Approved Class A beer/liquor license renewals for Northside Mobil and Fairfield Inn & Suites (5-0)
- Approved Class B beer license renewal for Tienda el Rancho (5-0)
- Approved Class B beer/Class C wine license renewals for Great Eggs and Mama Ciminos (5-0)
- Approved massage establishment renewals for 4 businesses (5-0)
- Approved taxi company license renewal for Senior Cab Plus (5-0)
- Approved Forebeck Legacy Half Marathon event permit, pending conditions (5-0)
Board of Park Commissioners
The Lake Geneva Board of Park Commissioners will discuss and make recommendations on several park-related topics, including a proposal for a dog memorial at Library Park Dog Pier, tree identification at Hillmoor, code compliance, pavilion rental fees, and developing a 'Friends of Parks' 501c3 for fundraising. The board will also consider dogs on leashes in Veterans Park and weddings in the parks. Public comments are limited to agenda items, except for public hearings.
- Dog memorial proposal at Library Park Dog Pier
- Tree identification and documentation at Hillmoor
- Pavilion rentals and fees list
- Developing 'Friends of Parks' 501c3 for fundraising
- Dogs on leashes in Veterans Park
The Lake Geneva Park Board unanimously approved allowing dogs on leashes on paths in Veteran's Park, responding to resident requests. A proposal for a dog recognition area at Library Park failed in a roll call vote, but a revised plan for DPW to design a 'salute' area with Finley's stone as centerpiece was approved unanimously. The board also approved several other items, including researching grants for a 'Friends of Parks' foundation and adding CORP improvement items to the Sponsorship Wish List.
- Approved dogs on leashes on paths in Veteran's Park (unanimous)
- Denied dog recognition area at Library Park with plaques (3-3, motion lost)
- Approved DPW design of dog 'salute' area with Finley's stone as centerpiece (unanimous)
- Approved researching grants and developing fundraising for parks, overseen by Park Board (unanimous)
- Approved including CORP park improvement items (pages 51-53) on Sponsorship Wish List (unanimous)
- Approved dark green wainscotting on DPW Veteran's Park shed (unanimous)
- Approved continuing discussion on pavilion rentals and fees (unanimous)
- Approved continuing discussion on weddings in parks (unanimous)
Utility Commission
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission is meeting to approve routine items like minutes, financials, and bills, and to discuss several action items. Key discussions include the scope of services for utility improvements along STH 50, a proposed land acquisition from Alliant Energy, potential awards for painting projects at the wastewater utility, and an update on PFAS results and related lawsuits. The commission will also enter closed session to discuss lease amendments with AT&T.
- Discussion/Action on scope of services for utility improvements along STH 50
- Discussion/Action on proposed land acquisition from Wisconsin Power & Light (Alliant Energy)
- Potential award of Wastewater Utility Exterior Building Painting Project
- Potential award of Wastewater Utility Headworks & Digester Painting Project
- Update on PFAS results and 3M/DuPont class action lawsuits
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission approved the scope of services for design and bidding of utility improvements along STH 50, despite WI DOT's request to complete utility work before their project starts. They also approved the sale of a small parcel to Alliant Energy (Wisconsin Power & Light) and recommended City Council support. Two painting contracts were awarded to Porta-Painting, and the 2023 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report was approved. The commission declined proposed amendments to the AT&T Host Tower lease.
- Approved scope of services for STH 50 utility improvements design/bidding (5-0)
- Approved property acquisition by Alliant Energy, recommended City Council support (5-0)
- Awarded Wastewater Utility Exterior Building Painting Project to Porta-Painting (5-0)
- Awarded Wastewater Utility Headworks & Digester Painting Project to Porta-Painting (5-0)
- Approved 2023 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report and Resolution 2024-02 (5-0)
- Declined proposed amendments to Host Tower lease with AT&T (5-0)
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee is meeting to review and approve April and May invoices and the budget, discuss the 2025 operating budget, and hear building and grounds and investments/donations reports. The meeting is primarily routine financial oversight with no major policy decisions listed.
- Review and approval of April & May invoices & budget
- Discussion of 2025 operating budget
- Building & grounds report
- Investments / donations report
The Lake Geneva Public Library Board approved April invoices totaling $76,906.92 and May invoices totaling $71,857.47, both unanimously. The board also received updates on the Smith Meeting Room grant application and the Avedisian Trust disbursement, with no new information on the latter. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved April invoices totaling $76,906.92 (unanimous)
- Approved May invoices totaling $71,857.47 (unanimous)
- Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Board is meeting to review and approve April and May invoices, receive committee reports, and hear updates from the director and staff. The agenda includes a proposed budget for the Avedisian Trust designated donation and reports on usage, events, and projects. Public comment is limited to agenda items.
- Review and approval of April & May invoices
- Avedisian Trust designated donation - proposed budget update
- Staff presentation on Technical Services
- Building and grounds report
- Investment / donations report
Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee
The Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee will meet to review reports from the Harbormaster and discuss potential improvements to the city's lagoon. The committee will evaluate bids for lagoon dredging and explore eco-friendly, spillway-safe options for the area. Additionally, they will discuss the dumpster area at the Riviera.
- Discussion and recommendation regarding lagoon dredging bid
- Discussion and recommendation regarding eco-friendly and spillway-safe lagoon options
- Discussion and recommendation regarding Riviera dumpster area
- Approval of May 14, 2024 meeting minutes
The Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee approved the May 14, 2024 minutes unanimously. They discussed lagoon eco-friendly and spillway-safe options with Bruceski's Marine Construction, but took no action. The lagoon dredging bid was tabled for a future meeting. The Riviera dumpster issue was discussed, with the mayor to meet with Johns representatives.
- Approved May 14, 2024 committee minutes (unanimous)
- Tabled lagoon dredging bid discussion
- No action on lagoon options; discussion only
- Discussed Riviera dumpster issue; no formal action
Historic Preservation Commission
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss updates to the City's Historic Preservation Ordinance, develop a new Local Historic Landmark Application Form, and consider nominations for local landmarks. The agenda also includes updates on various historic sites, events, and projects, as well as routine items like minutes approval and budget review.
- Discussion of updates to City of Lake Geneva Chapter 34 - Historic Preservation Ordinance and new Local Historic Landmark Application Form
- Approval of proposal from Juan Aceves for clean-up and repairs to paver footprints at the Historic Railroad Site
- Review of Historic Plaque Program applications, including Pat Strenger's home at 953 Henry Street, with plaques costing $258.48 each
- Update on Three Graces statue relocation from Flat Iron Park to Geneva Lake Museum and future repair/replacement plans
- Discussion of Paula Porubcan's Certified Local Government Grant Application for Hillmoor Archaeological Survey and possible National Historic Landscape nomination
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission denied a historic plaque request for 953 Henry Street because the home's exterior has been modified, conflicting with guidelines. The commission also approved a proposal for cleanup and repairs to the Railroad Turntable paver footprints, and discussed various updates and fundraisers.
- Denied historic plaque request for 953 Henry Street (modified exterior)
- Approved Juan Aceves' proposal for Railroad Turntable paver cleanup and repairs
- Approved minutes from May 14, 2024 meeting
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will consider routine items including liquor license renewals, equipment replacement fund carryovers, and a contract for Council Chamber audio/visual upgrades not to exceed $48,526.33. The agenda also includes consent items for sidewalk cafe and massage establishment permits, and a Tier-2 event permit for Concerts in the Park.
- Resolution 24-R47: liquor license renewals for July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025
- Resolution 24-R46: carryover of Equipment Replacement Funds from 2023 to 2024
- SmartSpaces contract for Council Chamber A/V upgrades, up to $48,526.33
- Six parking passes for UCC Church Food Bank Volunteers
- Replacement of skid loader and wide area mower from Equipment Replacement Fund
Tourism Commission
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission approved a not-to-exceed $40,000 grant for Venetian Fest, with changes requiring marketing materials to include the lake Geneva tourism logo and a link to lakegenevahotels.org. The commission also approved eliminating item #4 from the grant application, elected officers, and continued discussions on grant procedures and software.
- Approved $40,000 grant for Venetian Fest with marketing requirements (unanimous)
- Eliminated item #4 from tourism grant application (unanimous)
- Re-elected Brian Waspi as chairperson (unanimous)
- Elected Alderman Fesenmaier as secretary (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from May 13, 2024 (unanimous)
- Continued data service software grant request to next meeting
- Continued grant application webpage revisions to next meeting
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission will consider approving May 2024 bills for the fire and police departments, totaling $795,664.88, and discuss policy updates, equipment disposal, and monthly activity reports. The meeting also includes a closed session to discuss a school resource officer agreement and a radio project.
- Fire department bills: $315,313.52 total (operating $285,927.60, capital $3,402.70, equipment replacement $25,983.22)
- Police department bills: $480,351.36 total (operating $466,904.05, equipment replacement $13,447.31)
- Approval of updated Lexipol policies: Body Armor (905), Career Tracks (1006), On-Duty Voting (1018)
- Disposal of obsolete fire equipment: 3 ventilation fans, 1 smoke ejector fan, 1 hose testing machine
- Closed session: School Resource Officer MOU and Walworth County Radio Project
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission approved May 2024 bills for both departments, totaling $795,664.88, and approved several policy updates and equipment disposals. The commission also went into closed session to discuss a School Resource Officer MOU and the Walworth County Radio Project, but no action was taken on these items upon returning to open session. All votes were unanimous 5-0.
- Approved May 2024 fire bills totaling $315,313.52 (5-0)
- Approved May 2024 police bills totaling $480,351.36 (5-0)
- Approved updated Lexipol policies for fire (Body Armor, Career Tracks, On-Duty Voting) (5-0)
- Approved updated Lexipol policies for police (Generative AI, Sexual Assault Investigations) (5-0)
- Approved disposal of obsolete fire equipment (3 ventilation fans, 1 smoke ejector fan, 1 hose testing machine) (5-0)
- Approved regular meeting minutes of May 9, 2024 (5-0)
- Moved to closed session to discuss School Resource Officer MOU and Walworth County Radio Project (5-0)
- Returned to open session with no action on closed-session items (5-0)
Board of Review
The Lake Geneva Board of Review is meeting to review the 2024 assessment roll and hear objections from property owners. The board will elect officers, verify training compliance, and may set additional meeting dates if needed. This is a quasi-judicial session, not a regular Council meeting.
- Election of Chairman and Vice Chairman
- Verification of mandatory training per Wis. Stats. § 70.46(4)
- Review and examination of the assessment roll
- Hearing of objectors to assessments
- Objection forms due within 48 hours of the Board of Review
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Strategic Planning Committee is meeting to discuss the Flexible Facilities Grant and plan renovations to the Smith Meeting Room. The agenda includes a call to order, roll call, and a summary of the grant and renovation planning.
- Discussion of Flexible Facilities Grant
- Planning for Smith Meeting Room renovation
The Strategic Planning Committee agreed to pursue a Flexible Facilities Grant for renovating the Smith Meeting Room, despite the competitive and short-turnaround nature of the grant. Members discussed a range of potential improvements, including door access, storage, furniture, AV updates, and accessibility, and agreed to prioritize the list and seek architect input. No formal decisions were made beyond supporting the grant application and adjourning.
- Agreed to apply for Flexible Facilities Grant (unanimous)
- Adjourned at 11:02 a.m. (unanimous)
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District Board of Directors is meeting to discuss routine administrative items and several downtown initiatives. They will review the Murals in Motion event, a Music on Street proposal, a potential half marathon partnership for 2025, and a request to review new downtown benches. The board will also hear updates on beautification projects and the Main Street accreditation review.
- Review of new downtown benches requested by Roger Wolff and Terrance Paisano
- Introduction to half marathon partnership for 2025
- Music on Street proposal update
- Beautification update: lights, flowers, and new banner design
- Main Street Accreditation Review reminder for June 7 at 11am
The Lake Geneva BID Board approved assistance for a Lemonade Crawl event permit and promotion, and added a 2025 half marathon partnership to its operations plan for logistical support. The board also approved paying $21,845.58 in expenses and approved new evergreen banner designs.
- Approved BID assistance for Lemonade Crawl event permit and promotion (unanimous)
- Approved adding 2025 half marathon to operations plan for logistical support (unanimous)
- Approved $21,845.58 in expense payments
- Approved evergreen banner designs for beautification
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and make recommendations on several items, including liquor license renewals, sidewalk cafe permits, and equipment replacements funded from the Equipment Replacement Fund. They will also consider audio/visual upgrades for Council Chambers and parking passes for volunteers and city officials. The meeting includes public comment and approval of previous minutes.
- Resolution 24-R47: Liquor license renewals for July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025
- Sidewalk cafe permit renewals for Harborside Pub & Grill, Harry's Cafe, O2 Lounge, Popeye's
- Massage establishment renewals for Healing Muscle Therapies and Lakeview Spa
- Tier-2 Event Permit for Concerts in the Park (Thursdays, June 27–Aug 8, 2024, Brunk Pavilion/Flat Iron Park)
- Replacement of skid loader and wide area mower from Equipment Replacement Fund
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee approved several routine items, including liquor license renewals, sidewalk cafe permits, massage establishment renewals, a Tier-2 event permit for Concerts in the Park, equipment replacement funds, and a SmartSpace audio/visual upgrade for Council Chambers. A motion to issue parking placards to City Council members failed in a 2-2 tie and was sent to the full Council without recommendation. The committee also approved six parking passes for UCC Church Food Bank volunteers.
- Approved liquor license renewals for July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025 (4-0)
- Approved sidewalk cafe permit renewals for Harborside Pub & Grill, Harry's Cafe, O2 Lounge, and Popeye's (4-0)
- Approved massage establishment renewals for Healing Muscle Therapies and Lakeview Spa (4-0)
- Approved Tier-2 event permit for Concerts in the Park, Thursdays June 27–Aug 8, 2024 (4-0)
- Approved carryover of Equipment Replacement Funds budgets from 2023 to 2024 (4-0)
- Approved SmartSpace proposal for Council Chambers audio/visual upgrades (4-0)
- Approved six parking passes for UCC Church Food Bank volunteers (4-0)
- Motion to issue parking placards to Council members failed 2-2; sent to Council without recommendation
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole approved the May 6, 2024 minutes (6-0) and heard committee reports. No substantive decisions were made; items discussed included YMCA expansion options, lagoon dredging, and the short-term rental ordinance progressing to legal review.
- Approved Committee of the Whole minutes from May 6, 2024 (6-0)
Personnel Committee
The Lake Geneva Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss and make recommendations on several personnel-related items, including an ordinance on appointed officials, the personnel committee ordinance, employee performance evaluation forms, the organizational chart, and job description formats. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Discussion/Recommendation on Sec. 2-3 APPOINTED OFFICIALS Ordinance
- Review of Sec. 2-49 (3) PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ordinance
- Review of Employee Performance Evaluation Form and samples from other communities
- Discussion on revised job description format for future hires
- Discussion on revised Job Description for City Administrator
Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee
The Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee will review and discuss version 9 language changes to the STR Ordinance (Sec. 98-206). They will also consider other STR-related topics, including resident education tools, an online listing of licensed STRs, conditions for relaxing the 180-day minimum, an annual owner meeting, and monitoring systems. No official Council action will be taken.
- Review version 9 changes to STR Ordinance Sec. 98-206
- Discuss resident education and communication tools
- Design online STR listing with license numbers
- Study relaxing 180-day minimum for exemplary performance via Limited Conditional Use Permits
- Identify cost-effective monitoring and enforcement systems
Personnel Committee
The Lake Geneva Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss the job descriptions for the City Administrator and Harbormaster positions. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting; it is a discussion-only agenda.
- Discussion of City Administrator job description
- Discussion of Harbormaster job description
Public Works Committee
The Lake Geneva Public Works Committee is meeting to discuss and make recommendations on a range of public works items, including parking, accessibility, road conditions, and equipment replacements. No official Council action will be taken; the committee's role is to discuss and recommend. Items include issuing parking passes for a food bank, accepting coins in kiosks, and several infrastructure studies.
- Issue six parking passes for UCC Church Food Bank Volunteers
- Discuss accepting coins in parking kiosks
- Discuss new Riviera Beach ADA Access
- Discuss replacement of Skid Loader and Wide Area Mower from Equipment Replacement Fund
- Discuss SS4A Grant for signal at Townline Road and Edwards Boulevard
The Public Works Committee approved the purchase of a 2024 Case TR270B Compact Track Loader for $68,260.00 and a Toro Wide Area Mower for $98,653.84, both from the Equipment Replacement Fund. They also referred a parking pass request for UCC Church Food Bank volunteers to FLR without recommendation, continued discussions on coin acceptance in parking kiosks, and directed Kapur to evaluate downtown sidewalks. Several items were tabled to future meetings.
- Approved 2024 Case TR270B Compact Track Loader for $68,260.00 (4-0)
- Approved Toro Wide Area Mower for $98,653.84 (4-0)
- Referred UCC Church Food Bank parking passes to FLR without recommendation (4-0)
- Continued discussion on coin acceptance in parking kiosks (4-0)
- Directed Kapur to start evaluating downtown sidewalks (4-0)
- Requested cost estimates for Center Street interchange alternatives 1 & 3 (4-0)
Plan Commission
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission will hold a public hearing and make a recommendation on a zoning map amendment requested by Bloomfield Holdings, LLC to assign permanent Single Family Residential – 4 (SR-4) zoning to the property at 875 Townline Road. The meeting also includes routine items such as roll call, public comments, and correspondence acknowledgment.
- Public hearing on zoning map amendment for 875 Townline Road (Tax Key No. MB 500003) to SR-4
- Recommendation on Bloomfield Holdings, LLC zoning application
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will discuss and potentially act on a pre-annexation and development agreement, permanent zoning, and annexation ordinance for a property at 875 Townline Road. They will also consider several other zoning and conditional use permits, a budget amendment for the Downtown BID, and investment-related resolutions. The agenda includes consent items for fee waivers and routine approvals.
- Pre-Annexation and Development Agreement with Bloomfield Holdings, LLC for 875 Townline Road (Tax Key MB 500003)
- Resolution 24-R45: permanent zoning for Bloomfield Holdings LLC at 875 Townline Road
- Ordinance 24-03: direct annexation of territory from Town of Bloomfield
- Resolution 24-R40: open custodial accounts with Pershing Advisor Solutions and engage Ehlers Investment Partners
- Conditional use permits for Jennifer Klemke (physical activities studio and commercial indoor lodging) at 1020 Lake Geneva Blvd
The Common Council approved the pre-annexation and development agreement with Bloomfield Holdings for the property at 875 Townline Road, including an amendment limiting model homes to two. The council also approved permanent zoning, the direct annexation ordinance, and several other resolutions. A proposed amendment to require road improvements failed.
- Approved pre-annexation and development agreement with Bloomfield Holdings (7-0)
- Amended agreement to limit model homes at Symphony Bay to two total (6-1)
- Rejected amendment requiring road improvements for construction traffic (3-4)
- Approved Resolution 24-R45 permanent zoning for Bloomfield Holdings (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance 24-03 direct annexation of property (7-0)
- Approved Resolution 24-R40 to open custodial accounts and engage investment advisor (unanimous)
- Approved BID budget amendment for Murals line item (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 24-R41 permanent zoning for RJ Amann Properties (unanimous)
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee reviewed and discussed the City Administrator and Harbormaster job descriptions, considering changes such as education requirements, prior Wisconsin municipal experience, and reporting structure. The committee voted unanimously to hold a special working session on May 29, 2024, to blend existing job descriptions into a working document, with the revised descriptions to be forwarded to the June 3 Personnel meeting and June 4 FLR meeting. No final job description changes were approved at this meeting.
- Held special working session on May 29, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. to revise City Administrator and Harbormaster job descriptions (unanimous)
- Forwarded Harbormaster job description to working Personnel meeting on May 29 (unanimous)
- Forwarded City Administrator job description to working Personnel meeting on May 29 (unanimous)
- Adjourned at 5:56 p.m. (unanimous)
Board of Park Commissioners
The Lake Geneva Board of Park Commissioners will meet to discuss and make recommendations on several park-related items, including a dog sculpture donation, revisions to dog leash rules at Veterans Park, sponsorship/wish lists, impact fee language for park improvements, and Tot Lots playgrounds. The board will also receive updates from the Tree Board, Avian Committee, and Parks Superintendent, and approve the previous meeting's minutes.
- Dog sculpture donation discussion
- Revision of dog leash rules for Veterans Park
- Sponsorship/wish lists for parks
- Impact fee language for park improvements
- Tot Lots playgrounds discussion
The Lake Geneva Board of Park Commissioners met on May 21, 2024, and took no final action on any substantive item. The board unanimously tabled a donation from Candy Kirchberg for Library Park and tabled revisions to the Veterans Park dog leash ordinance for further review. Discussions on sponsorships, impact fees, and Tot Lots were continued without decisions.
- Tabled Candy Kirchberg donation for Library Park (unanimous)
- Tabled Veterans Park dog leash rule revision (unanimous)
- Continued discussion on sponsorships/wish lists (unanimous)
- Continued discussion on impact fees for park improvements (unanimous)
- Continued discussion on Tot Lots safety and maintenance (unanimous)
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and possibly recommend action on several items, including requests for beach passes and fee waivers, a resolution to open custodial accounts with an investment advisor, a budget amendment for the Downtown Business Improvement District, and a review of the Treasurer's budget versus actual report. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and presentation of bills.
- Request for 80 beach passes for YMCA Summer Youth Swimming Program
- Request for admission fee waiver/discount for 20 students and 2 adults from Eastview School for a beach day
- Resolution 24-R40 to open custodial accounts with Pershing Advisor Solutions LLC and engage Ehlers Investment Partners
- Budget amendment request by Downtown Business Improvement District for Murals line item
- Pre-paid bills: $46,095.50; Regular bills: $149,829.60
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee approved several contracts and resolutions, including the 2024 Street Paving Program with Wolf Paving Co Inc, the Lagoon Seawall Repairs contract with CK Contractors, and a one-year Veteran's Park Programming Agreement with the Geneva Lakes Family YMCA. The committee also approved budget carryovers, a special assessment resolution for street improvements, and various permits and licenses. All votes were unanimous except the YMCA agreement, which passed 4-1.
- Approved Badger High School graduation ceremony street closure permit (unanimous)
- Approved St. Francis de Sales Parish School Roadrunner 5K permit (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 24-R34 Lakefront Fund budget carryover (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 24-R35 General Fund budget carryover (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 24-R37 preliminary special assessment for 2024 Street Improvement Project (unanimous)
- Approved Lagoon Seawall Repairs contract to CK Contractors (unanimous)
- Approved 2024 Street Paving Program bid to Wolf Paving Co Inc (unanimous)
- Approved Veteran's Park Programming Agreement with YMCA, amended to one year (4-1)
Plan Commission
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission will hold public hearings and make recommendations on several land use applications. These include requests for conditional use permits, zoning map amendments, and a pre-annexation agreement for property within the city.
- Annexation and SR-4 zoning request for 875 Townline Road
- Zoning map amendment to Planned Office for N3219 CTH H
- Conditional Use Permit for a physical activity studio at 431-433 Broad St.
- Conditional Use Permit for commercial indoor lodging at 431-433 Broad St.
- General Development Plan review for 817 N. Knoll Ln.
Utility Commission
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission will vote on releasing retainage for the Pine Tree Lane and Mariane Terrace project, proceeding to bid the Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement, and awarding crack filling and chip sealing for seepage cell access roads. They will also discuss the scope of services for utility improvements along STH 50 and review the 2023 Consumer Confidence Report. A closed session is scheduled to discuss AT&T Host Tower lease amendments.
- Release of 2.5% retainage for Pine Tree Lane and Mariane Terrace Improvement Project
- Proceed to bidding phase of Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project
- Scope of services for design and bidding of utility improvements along STH 50
- Award of crack filling and chip sealing work for seepage cell access roads
- Closed session to discuss AT&T Host Tower lease amendments
Geneva Lake Environmental Agency
The Geneva Lake Environmental Agency board will hold its monthly business meeting, including electing a chairperson, vice chairperson, and treasurer, and taking action on April 2024 financial statements and reports. The board will also discuss staff reports and possible actions on items like a college intern, OSHA compliance, water quality projects, and grant applications.
- Board elections for Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Treasurer
- Action on April 2024 Income Statement and Balance Sheet
- Discussion of Mobile CD3 Unit, Spillway and Dam Update, City of Lake Geneva Lagoon Update
- Grant applications: Macroinvertebrate Survey, Environmental Education Foundation Highschool Internship, Clean Boats Clean Waters
- Lake Management Plan Focus Groups: Water Quality May 20, Boat Traffic May 21
The Geneva Lake Environmental Agency board approved the April minutes, elected officers, and accepted monthly financial and director reports. They also noted the hiring of a college intern and receipt of a $5,000 grant for high school interns.
- Approved April 18, 2024 board meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Elected P. Kenny as Chairperson (unanimous)
- Elected M.J. Fesenmaier as Vice Chairperson (unanimous)
- Elected R. Umans as Treasurer (unanimous)
- Approved April 2024 Income Statement (unanimous)
- Approved April 2024 Balance Sheet (unanimous)
- Approved April 2024 Treasurer's report (unanimous)
- Approved Director's report for April-May 2024 (unanimous)
Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee
The Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee reviewed the revised STR ordinance and decided not to change the off-season minimum requirements, despite a request from member Jason Smolarek. The committee will continue refining language on several sections before the next meeting. No final ordinance was adopted.
- Kept 180-day off-season requirement unchanged (committee consensus)
- Continued ordinance review with language changes on STR, annual license, occupancy, and penalties
- Scheduled next meeting for May 29, 2024
Cemetery Board
The Lake Geneva Cemetery Board will hold its regular monthly meeting, covering routine items like approving minutes and electing officers. Key discussions include a proposal to move the purchase of a new columbarium from 2027 to 2024, adding Pioneer Cemetery to Pontem, and reviewing updated cemetery rules and fees. The board will also consider a $225 logo design estimate and select members for a September conference.
- Discussion on moving columbarium purchase from 2027 to 2024
- Review of revised Cemetery Rules and Regulations with fee schedule
- Logo design estimate of $225.00 from Neal Aspinall
- Discussion on adding Pioneer Cemetery to Pontem
- Election of officers for 2024
The Cemetery Board approved the April minutes and elected new officers: Cathy Stoodley as President, Terry Krohn as Vice President, and Ruth Monico as Secretary. The board continued discussions on cemetery rules, a logo reimbursement, and the Columbarium repair, but no other formal decisions were made.
- Approved April 17, 2024 meeting minutes (2-0)
- Elected Cathy Stoodley as President (4-0)
- Elected Terry Krohn as Vice President (4-0)
- Elected Ruth Monico as Secretary (4-0)
Historic Preservation Commission
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss routine updates and several specific projects. Key items include updates to the city's Historic Preservation Ordinance, a grant application for an archaeological survey of the former Hillmoor Golf Course, and the status of the Three Graces statue. The commission will also review recent plaque applications and the cost of new plaques.
- Update on Paula Porubcan's Certified Local Government Grant Application for Hillmoor Archaeological Survey and possible National Historic Landscape nomination
- Discussion on updates to City of Lake Geneva Chapter 34 - Historic Preservation Ordinance and new Local Historic Landmark Application Form
- Update on Three Graces statue relocation from Flat Iron Park to Geneva Lake Museum and repair/replacement plans
- Review of Historic Plaque Program applications; plaques cost $258.48 each including sales tax
- Discussion on repair/replacement of historic plaques and signs by Jim Sherin at Timberline Signs
Avian Committee
The Lake Geneva Avian Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, public comments, and updates on projects like the World Migratory Bird Celebration and Bird City application status. No official City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- World Migratory Bird Celebration update
- Bird City Application Status
- Partnership and potential grants
- Monarch Palooza/Purple Martin Open House
- Charging Stations
The Avian Committee approved the April 9, 2024 minutes and discussed upcoming activities, including a Farmers' Market table for World Migratory Day, a pilot program for Birding Backpacks with a $1,000 grant from the Rotary Club, and a Monarch Palooza/Purple Martin Open House. No formal decisions were made on these items; they remain plans for future action.
- Approved April 9, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Planned table at Farmers' Market for World Migratory Day on May 23, 2024
- Discussed pilot program for 5-6 Birding Backpacks with hotels, with $1,000 Rotary Club grant offer
- Scheduled signage installation at Four Seasons Nature Preserve for May 22, 2024
- Scheduled Monarch Palooza/Purple Martin Open House for June 22, 2024 at Lake Geneva Public Library
Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee
The Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee will discuss and make recommendations on several lakefront items, including an update on the Riviera Beach ADA access project, a request from the YMCA for 80 beach passes for its summer youth swimming program, and a fee waiver request for Eastview School students. The committee will also review the harbormaster report, hear an explanation of the 2024 Lagoon Rental Season including costs for pier removal, lost revenue, sea wall damage, and dredging, and discuss lagoon status concerns involving four municipalities. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Discussion/Recommendation on Riviera Beach ADA Access - Kapur Update
- Request from YMCA for 80 beach passes for Summer Youth Swimming Program
- Request for admission fee waiver/discount for 20 students and 2 adults from Eastview School on May 30 or June 3
- Explanation of Lagoon Rental Season 2024: pier removal expenses, lost slip revenue, sea wall damage/repair costs, dredging costs
- Discussion of Lagoon Status; concerns of City of Lake Geneva, Linn Township, Fontana, Williams Bay
Tree Board
The Lake Geneva Tree Board is meeting to discuss downtown tree safety, including drafting a letter to the BID about Christmas lights on trees and possibly rewriting the tree safety ordinance. They will also hear the arborist's report on spring conditions, spongy moth progression, and netting trees for the 2024 cicada brood, and discuss corporate tree plantings.
- Draft letter to BID requesting all Christmas lights be removed from downtown trees
- Possible rewrite of ordinance for tree safety downtown
- Discussion on netting trees for cicada brood 2024
- Discussion regarding corporate tree plantings/replacements
Tourism Commission
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission is meeting to receive updates on promotional activities, hotel performance, and room tax finances, and to discuss a grant request for downtown event data software. The commission will also consider adding a Tourism Commission website link to the city website. No official City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Discussion/Action on Tourism Promotional Grant Program: data service software for downtown events (BID)
- Written financial update on Room Tax Dollars Collected, financials, budget, disbursements, and outstanding tourism grants
- Update from Heather Jones on 'Meet at the Lake' promotional activity
- Update from VISIT Lake Geneva on promotional activity, calendar, and hotel performance
- Discussion/Action on adding Tourism Commission website link to City Website
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will consider several resolutions and contracts, including issuing $8.96 million in general obligation promissory notes, approving the 2024 street paving program, and awarding a seawall repair contract. They will also discuss an annexation petition and a development plan for the Geneva Square property. The meeting includes a closed session to discuss the City Clerk's employment.
- Resolution 24-R39: $8,960,000 General Obligation Promissory Notes Series 2024A
- Resolution 24-R37: Special assessment for 2024 Street Improvement Project
- Bid approval for 2024 Street Paving Program to Wolf Paving Co Inc
- Lagoon Seawall Repairs construction contract to CK Contractors
- Annexation petition by Bloomfield Holdings LLC for Tax Key # MB 500003
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee is meeting to review and approve April invoices and the budget, hear a building and grounds report, and review investments and donations. The agenda is largely routine financial and facilities oversight, with no major policy decisions listed.
- Review and approval of April invoices & budget
- Building & grounds report
- Investments / donations report
- Approval of previous meeting minutes
The Lake Geneva Library Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee approved a $1,196 lighting bid from Giraffe Electric to improve lighting in the audiobook area, funded from LGIP#6. The committee tabled review of April invoices and budget until the June meeting due to unavailable financial reports. Roof repairs and spring maintenance were completed by Schranz Roofing, with a follow-up visit planned for November.
- Approved $1,196 lighting bid from Giraffe Electric for audiobook area (unanimous)
- Tabled April invoices and budget review until June meeting
- Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Library Board unanimously approved the 2024-25 slate of officers (Lyon as President, Gramm as Vice-President, Kundert as Financial Secretary/Treasurer) and set monthly meeting dates. The board also approved a $1,196 lighting quote for the audiobook area and an outdoor display request from Historic Preservation/WI Historical Society. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 4:45 p.m.
- Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved 2024-25 officers: Lyon (President), Gramm (Vice-President), Kundert (Financial Secretary/Treasurer) (unanimous)
- Approved $1,196 Giraffe Electric quote for audiobook area lighting (unanimous)
- Approved outdoor display request from Historic Preservation/WI Historical Society (unanimous)
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission will meet to approve 2023 carryover budget items totaling $79,200 for police and fire departments, elect officers, and consider several policy and hiring items. The agenda includes routine approvals of bills, policy updates, and a closed session to discuss a fire service agreement with the Town of Linn.
- Approve $38,600 police and $40,600 fire 2023 carryover budget items (Resolution 24-R35)
- Approve April 2024 police bills totaling $604,254.30
- Approve April 2024 fire bills totaling $271,306.38
- Accept $10,000 PT equipment donation from Lake Geneva Firefighters Association
- Approve hiring of Lucas Carlise, Gianna Hernandez, William Beetschen pending background/medical checks
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission approved $79,200 in 2023 carryover budget items for the Police and Fire Departments, approved April bills totaling $875,560.68, and approved new hires and policy updates. The commission also elected officers and changed the July meeting date.
- Approved $38,600 police and $40,600 fire carryover budget items (5-0)
- Approved police April bills totaling $604,254.30 (5-0)
- Approved fire April bills totaling $271,306.38 (5-0)
- Approved Lexipol policies for police (5-0)
- Approved 2023 Fire Department Annual Report (5-0)
- Accepted $10,000 PT equipment donation from Firefighters Association (5-0)
- Approved hiring of Lucas Carlise, Gianna Hernandez, William Beetschen (5-0)
- Elected Jay Fairbanks as President (3-2) and Tom Clausen as Vice President (5-0)
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and recommend action on several contracts and resolutions, including the 2024 street paving program, lagoon seawall repairs, and budget carryovers. They will also consider permits for a high school graduation and a 5K run, plus updates to cemetery rules and a park programming agreement.
- 2024 Street Paving Program bid to Wolf Paving Co Inc
- Lagoon Seawall Repairs construction contract to CK Contractors
- Resolution 24-R34: Lakefront Fund budget carryover from 2023 to 2024
- Resolution 24-R35: General Fund budget carryover from 2023 to 2024
- Public event permits for Badger High School graduation (June 9) and St. Francis de Sales Parish School Roadrunner 5K (May 25)
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee approved several items, including the 2024 Street Paving Program with Wolf Paving Co Inc, the Lagoon Seawall Repairs contract with CK Contractors, and a one-year Veteran's Park Programming Agreement with the Geneva Lakes Family YMCA (amended from two years). All votes were unanimous except the YMCA agreement, which passed 4-1. The committee also approved budget carryovers, a special assessment resolution for street improvements, and other routine items.
- Approved Badger High School graduation ceremony street closure permit (unanimous)
- Approved St. Francis de Sales Parish School Roadrunner 5K permit (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 24-R34 Lakefront Fund budget carryover (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 24-R35 General Fund budget carryover with typo fix (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 24-R37 preliminary special assessment for street improvements (unanimous)
- Approved Lagoon Seawall Repairs contract to CK Contractors (unanimous)
- Approved 2024 Street Paving Program bid to Wolf Paving Co Inc (unanimous)
- Approved Veteran's Park Programming Agreement with YMCA, amended to one year (4-1)
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee discussed but did not finalize changes to the Personnel Committee ordinance, employee performance evaluation form, or organizational chart, deferring action to future meetings. It also entered closed session to discuss personnel matters and scheduled a future meeting to review the Building/Zoning Administrator's personnel file.
- Approved March 4, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
- Continued ordinance discussion to next month, adding Section 2-3 of Municipal Code (unanimous)
- Directed City Administrator to bring 3-4 evaluation tools for discussion (unanimous)
- Continued organizational chart discussion to June meeting (unanimous)
- Entered closed session for personnel evaluations (5-0)
- Returned to open session (5-0)
- Scheduled future meeting to review Building/Zoning Administrator's personnel file (unanimous)
Committee of the Whole
The Lake Geneva Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive a presentation on No Mow May from UW-Extension's Julie Hall, and to hear reports from standing committees, boards, and council representatives. No official action will be taken at this meeting.
- Presentation on No Mow May by Julie Hall, UW-Extension
- Reports from Finance, Personnel, Public Works, and Piers/Harbor/Lakefront committees
- Reports from Utility Commission, Tree Board, Police and Fire Commission, Plan Commission, and others
- Reports from representatives to VISIT Lake Geneva, Geneva Lake Museum, and other external boards
The Committee of the Whole met on May 6, 2024, and approved the minutes from February 5, 2024, with a 7-0 vote. The meeting consisted primarily of public comments, a presentation on No Mow May, and reports from various committees and boards. No substantive policy decisions were made; items discussed included street and sidewalk conditions, short-term rental ordinance progress, and the YMCA contract renewal.
- Approved Committee of the Whole minutes from February 5, 2024 (7-0)
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District Board of Directors is meeting to discuss routine business and several specific items. They will review the treasurer's report, hear updates from the executive director, and consider a budget adjustment for murals and a marketing purchase for Placer.ai software. The board will also discuss potential increased BID boundaries and related beautification costs for 2025.
- Discussion/Approval of Budget Adjustment for Murals
- Discussion/Approval of Marketing Purchase for Placer.ai software
- Update on beautification costs for flowers and decorations for 2025
- Post Event Analysis Spring Wine Walk
- Main Street Accreditation Review Sign Up – June 7 11am
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District board approved a budget amendment for the Murals in Motion program, increasing its budget to $96,386, and approved a $5,000 partnership with the Tourism Commission for Placer.ai software. The board also approved May bills totaling $12,598.06 plus $21,450 in check requests for Murals artists, and a $711.01 reimbursement for Steve Hamilton LLC. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved Murals in Motion budget amendment to $96,386 (all approved)
- Approved $5,000 partnership with Tourism Commission for Placer.ai software (all approved)
- Approved May bills totaling $12,598.06 (all approved)
- Approved $21,450 in check requests for Murals in Motion artists (all approved)
- Approved $711.01 reimbursement to Steve Hamilton LLC for 812 Geneva Street (all approved)
Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee
The Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to review and discuss proposed language changes to the Short-Term Rental Ordinance (Sec. 98-206). This is a review meeting only; no official Council action will be taken. The committee will also approve minutes from the April 17 meeting and discuss other STR-related topics as time permits.
- Review and discuss language changes to STR Ordinance Sec. 98-206
- Approval of minutes from April 17, 2024 meeting
- Discussion of other STR-related topics
- Next meeting scheduled for May 15, 2024
The Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee continued revising the STR ordinance, making several minor decisions but deferring major changes. They decided to clarify the rental booking period, keep guest information with owners, and not require external signage for STRs. The committee left the property manager distance rule open pending lawsuits and postponed discussion on the 185-day non-booking period and penalties to future meetings.
- Clarified rental booking period definition (unanimous)
- Decided guest information stays with owners, not city staff (unanimous)
- Rejected external signage for STRs due to public safety concerns (unanimous)
- Agreed failure to display STR license number on booking platforms is a violation (unanimous)
- Deferred property manager distance rule pending state lawsuits
- Deferred changes to 185-day non-booking period
- Deferred violations and penalties language to next meeting
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will consider resolutions accepting road and public improvement dedications for the Vistas subdivision, amending the Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee, and approving several event permits and a lease agreement. The meeting also includes a closed session to discuss intergovernmental fire and EMS negotiations.
- Resolution 24-R33: accept dedication of road, rights-of-way, and public improvements for Vistas of Lake Geneva (Edgewood Vistas) subdivision
- Resolution 24-R36: amend Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee members
- Tier-1 Event Permit for Music on Broad Street (May 25-Aug 18, 2024, 200 block of Broad St)
- Lease agreement with Gage Marine for Space 'F' in Riviera concourse, 812 Wrigley Dr
- Closed session on intergovernmental agreement for Fire and EMS with Public Administration Associates and Town of Linn
Public Works Committee
The Public Works Committee will discuss and possibly recommend approval of a construction contract for Lagoon Seawall Repairs with CK Contractors, and review the 2024 Street Paving Program. They will also discuss intergovernmental agreements and other routine matters. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Discussion/recommendation for approval of Lagoon Seawall Repairs construction contract to CK Contractors
- Discussion/recommendation on 2024 Street Paving Program
- Discussion of Intergovernmental Agreements
- Approval of March 25, 2024 minutes
- Reports from Director of Public Works, Parking Manager, and Engineer
Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee
The Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee met to review proposed language changes to the STR ordinance (Section 98.206) in the Municipal Code. They discussed the draft version 6 (referenced as v7 in the worksheet) section by section, with new language marked in red and removed language struck through. No final decisions were made; the meeting was a working session to refine the ordinance draft.
- Approved minutes of previous meeting (motion by Yunker, second by Pfeifer)
- Reviewed and discussed language changes to STR Ordinance Sec. 98-206 (no vote taken)
Cemetery Board
The Cemetery Board approved the revised Cemetery Rules and Regulations, which will be sent to the Common Council for final approval, and approved reimbursing Neal Aspinall up to $225 for designing a logo. The board also discussed ongoing maintenance and future planning items, but no other formal decisions were made.
- Approved minutes from March 20, 2024 (5-0)
- Recommended revised Cemetery Rules and Regulations to Common Council (5-0)
- Approved reimbursement to Neal Aspinall for logo design, estimated $225 (5-0)
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and make recommendations on several event permits, a lease agreement, and a sponsorship proposal. It will also review bills and enter closed session to negotiate an intergovernmental agreement for fire and EMS services.
- Tier-1 Event Permit for Music on Broad Street (May 25-Aug 18, 2024, 200 block of Broad St)
- Firework Permit for Venetian Fest (Aug 18, 2024)
- Public Event Permit for Farmers Market (May 2-Oct 31, 2024, Broad St)
- Temporary Class B beer license and Temporary Operator License for Spring Festival (May 5, 2024, St. Francis de Sales, 148 W Main St)
- Lease agreement with Gage Marine for Space F in Riviera concourse, 812 Wrigley Dr
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee approved several event permits and licenses, including the Music on Broad Street series (4-1), a fireworks permit for Venetian Fest, a farmers market permit, and temporary alcohol licenses for Spring Festival. It also approved a lease agreement with Gage Marine and pre-paid and regular bills. The committee referred the Veterans Park and Disc Golf Park sponsorship program back to the Park Board for more details, and forwarded an intergovernmental fire/EMS agreement to the City Council without a recommendation.
- Approved Tier-1 Event Permit for Music on Broad Street (4-1, Yunker no)
- Approved Firework Permit for Venetian Fest (unanimous)
- Approved Public Event Permit for Farmers Market (unanimous)
- Approved Temporary Class B license for St. Francis de Sales Spring Festival (unanimous)
- Approved Temporary Operator License for Cornelio Cruz (unanimous)
- Approved lease agreement with Gage Marine for Space F (unanimous)
- Referred sponsorship program for Veterans Park and Disc Golf Park back to Park Board (unanimous)
- Approved pre-paid bills $203,292.07, palpable tax error checks $20,909.46, and regular bills $222,662.31 (unanimous)
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council is holding its re-organizational meeting to elect a council president and vice president, and to consider four resolutions designating local depositories, the official newspaper, and confirming the mayor's appointments to standing and non-standing committees. The agenda is largely procedural, with no substantive policy decisions or public hearings listed.
- Election of Council President and Vice President
- Resolution 24-R29 designating local depositories and authorized signatories
- Resolution 24-R30 designating the official newspaper
- Resolution 24-R31 confirming mayor's aldermanic appointments to standing committees
- Resolution 24-R32 confirming mayor's appointments to non-standing committees and commissions
The Common Council held its re-organizational meeting, swearing in officials and electing Mary Jo Fesenmaier as Council President and Cindy Yager as Vice President. The council unanimously approved four resolutions designating local depositories, the official newspaper, and committee appointments. No substantive policy decisions were made.
- Elected Mary Jo Fesenmaier Council President
- Elected Cindy Yager Council Vice President
- Approved Resolution 24-R29 designating local depositories and authorized signatories (8-0)
- Approved Resolution 24-R30 designating the official newspaper (8-0)
- Approved Resolution 24-R31 confirming aldermanic appointments to standing committees (8-0)
- Approved Resolution 24-R32 confirming appointments to non-standing committees and commissions (8-0)
Utility Commission
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission is meeting to approve routine items like minutes, financials, and bills, and to discuss and potentially act on several capital purchases and a geotechnical exploration quote for the Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project. The commission will also enter closed session to discuss the Water Operator II position.
- Supplemental geotechnical exploration and analysis for Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project
- Purchase of a replacement equipment crane
- Purchase of a replacement control panel for Mariane Terrace Lift Station
- Closed session regarding Water Operator II position
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission approved several actions, including proceeding with bore pits for the Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project, purchasing a replacement equipment crane, and buying a replacement control panel for the Mariane Terrace Lift Station. All votes were unanimous (6-0). The commission also went into closed session to discuss the Water Operator II position and directed the Utility Director to proceed as discussed.
- Approved minutes from March 18, 2024 (6-0)
- Approved March 2024 financials (6-0)
- Approved March 2024 bills (6-0)
- Approved Director's Report (6-0)
- Approved proceeding with bore pits for Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement (6-0)
- Approved replacement of equipment crane (6-0)
- Approved purchase of replacement control panel for Mariane Terrace Lift Station (6-0)
- Directed Utility Director to proceed as discussed in closed session (6-0)
Plan Commission
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission will hold public hearings and make recommendations on a General Development Plan for a proposed development at Geneva Square, and on amending the zoning code regarding murals. They will also review site plans for murals at three downtown properties. The meeting includes routine items like approving minutes and public comments.
- Site plan review for mural at 233 Center St. (Melges Property Holdings LLC)
- Site plan review for mural at 234 Broad St. (Richard Herman Properties)
- Site plan review for mural at 858 W. Main St. (Paul Pappas)
- Public hearing on General Development Plan for Geneva Square property at 80 East Geneva Square
- Public hearing to amend Zoning Code section 98-726 regarding murals
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission approved three site plan reviews for murals, a General Development Plan for Geneva Square, and an amendment to the zoning code regarding murals. All votes were 4-0. The meeting included public comments and a brief technical interruption.
- Approved site plan review for mural at 233 Center St. (4-0)
- Approved site plan review for mural at 234 Broad St. (4-0)
- Approved site plan review for mural at 858 W. Main St. (4-0)
- Approved General Development Plan for Geneva Square development (4-0)
- Approved zoning code amendment for murals (4-0)
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library's Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee will meet to review and approve January and February invoices and the budget, discuss final billing and reconciliation for StoryCorps, and consider a 2017 donation. The meeting is primarily administrative, with no major policy decisions or public hearings on the agenda.
- Review and approval of January and February invoices & budget
- StoryCorps final billing and reconciliation
- Discussion of 2017 donation
- Building and grounds report
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Library Board approved $50,000 in investments recommended by Edward Jones, approved February and March invoices totaling $166,751.60, and took personnel action in closed session. The board also heard a youth services report and discussed upcoming events.
- Approved Feb/March invoices totaling $166,751.60 (unanimous)
- Approved $25K iShares Core MSCI, $12.5K Nutrien, $12.5K Pepsi investments (unanimous)
- Approved closed session for personnel matters (unanimous)
- Approved action on closed-session items (unanimous)
Hillmoor Ad Hoc
The Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss the future of the Hillmoor property. The agenda includes reports from the Friends of Hillmoor and the Geneva Lake Conservancy, a presentation by the National Links Trust, and acknowledgment of a project evaluation from the YMCA. The committee will also discuss the master plan timeline and set future meeting dates. No official City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Presentation by National Links Trust on restoration of a legacy
- Report from Friends of Hillmoor
- Report from Geneva Lake Conservancy
- Acknowledgment of project evaluation submitted by the YMCA
- Discussion of master plan timeline
Avian Committee
The Avian Committee is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, reviewing the 2023/24 financial report, and planning 2024 activities. They will also cover the World Migratory Bird Day celebration, Bird City application status, and potential grants. No official City Council action will be taken.
- Approval of minutes from March 12, 2024
- Update on 2023/24 financial review
- World Migratory Bird Day Celebration planning
- Bird City Application Status update
- Monarch Palooza at the Library and Purple Martin open house
Historic Preservation Commission
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business, including approval of minutes, public comments, and updates on local historic sites and events. Key items include a grant application for an archaeological survey of Hillmoor, the status of the Three Graces statue, and the cost of historic plaques. The agenda is largely informational and procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.
- Update on Paula Porubcan's Certified Local Government Grant Application for Hillmoor Archaeological Survey and possible National Historic Landscape nomination
- Discussion of repair/replacement of Three Graces statue, including relocation from Flat Iron Park to Geneva Lake Museum
- Historic Plaque Program: plaques cost $258.48 each from Timberline Signs
- Review of 2023 Certified Local Government Annual Report and revisions to Chapter 34 Historic Preservation Ordinance
- Discussion of repair options for paver footprints at Historic Railroad Site, with cost estimates pending
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission approved participation in the Wisconsin Historical Makers Tour History Walks, including displaying banners at the library, and approved repairs to remaining historic signs. The commission also discussed but did not decide on several items, including the Three Graces statue relocation, the Hillmoor archaeological survey grant, and the historic railroad site paver repairs. No formal votes were recorded for most agenda items.
- Approved participation in Wisconsin Historical Makers Tour History Walks (unanimous)
- Approved display of Makers Tour banners at east end of Library for 1-2 months (unanimous)
- Approved repairs to remaining historic signs needing repair
- Approved minutes from March 12, 2024 meeting
Tourism Commission
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission is meeting to discuss promotional activities, receive updates from tourism entities, and review grant requests. They will consider funding for Bacon Fest 2024 and Murals in Motion, and discuss a website link for city hotels. The meeting includes public comments and approval of previous minutes.
- Grant request: Bacon Fest 2024
- Grant request: Murals in Motion
- Update from VISIT Lake Geneva on promotional activity and hotel performance
- Financial update on room tax dollars and outstanding tourism grants
- Discussion on city website link for hotels and lodging
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will consider several items, including a budget amendment for a crosswalk on Sonata Way, a second reading of an annexation ordinance for a 2.12-acre property, and awarding a bid for the White River Disc Golf Course Pedestrian Bridge Replacement to Glen Fern Construction Co for up to $197,900. They will also discuss a Knowles-Nelson Grant for Hillmoor wetlands and approve various event permits and licenses.
- Resolution 24-R27: 2024 Budget Amendment for crosswalk on Sonata Way
- Ordinance 24-02: Direct annexation of 2.12 acres (Tax Key JA 5490001) for Ron Amann
- Bid award: White River Disc Golf Course Pedestrian Bridge Replacement to Glen Fern Construction Co, not to exceed $197,900
- Knowles-Nelson Grant discussion for Hillmoor wetlands
- Consent agenda: permits for Fat Tire Charity Ride, Murals in Motion, Bacon Fest, and Farmers Market
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission will vote on March 2024 bills totaling $432,340.68 for police and $313,501.32 for fire, confirm the hiring of six Community Service Officers, and approve several police policies. The commission will also discuss a facilities study update, fire department staffing, and a proposed service agreement with the Town of Linn, which will be discussed in closed session.
- Approval of police bills: $430,218.53 operating + $2,122.15 equipment = $432,340.68
- Approval of fire bills: $313,272.82 operating + $228.50 equipment = $313,501.32
- Confirmation of six Community Service Officers: Benjamin Bitzan, Austin Norton, Paige Scheel, Matthew Schroeder, Jacinto Urioste Ayala Jr., Mason Yee
- Approval of Lexipol policies including Vehicle Pursuits and Personal Communication Devices
- Closed session to discuss Fire Department service agreement with Town of Linn
The Police and Fire Commission approved March 2024 bills for police ($432,340.68) and fire ($313,501.32), confirmed the hiring of six Community Service Officers and one firefighter/EMT, and approved five Lexipol policies. The commission also approved the 2023 Police Department Annual Report and a contract with PPA for the City of Lake Geneva and Town of Linn. The July 4 meeting was tentatively moved to July 11.
- Approved police March bills totaling $432,340.68 (5-0)
- Approved fire March bills totaling $313,501.32 (5-0)
- Confirmed hiring of six Community Service Officers pending background/medical (5-0)
- Approved five Lexipol policies (5-0)
- Approved 2023 Police Department Annual Report (5-0)
- Approved hiring of FF/EMT Stacy Vavrik pending background/medical (5-0)
- Approved contract with PPA for City of Lake Geneva and Town of Linn (5-0)
- Tentatively moved July 4 PFC meeting to July 11
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Strategic Planning Committee is meeting to review a staff update and discuss board-specific plan items and next steps. The discussion focuses on strengthening library capacity, improving financial stability, staff development, resource coordination, and expansion planning. This meeting is purely procedural and routine as no final votes, contracts, or ordinances are listed on the agenda.
- Strategic planning update and staff update by Kornak
- Review of board-specific plan items and next steps led by Lyon
- Discussion of financial stability, staff leadership, and professional development
- Discussion of resource development and internal collaboration
- Discussion of library team expansion in collaboration with the City and Library Board
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District Board of Directors is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, receiving a treasurer's report, and hearing updates from the executive director. The board will also discuss recent events and the status of an application for Main Street accreditation. No City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Treasurer's report including balance sheet, budget vs. actuals, and bill payments
- Event planning recap for Wine Walk and Murals in Motion
- Conference updates and application status for Main Street Accreditation
- Appearance of VISIT Lake Geneva
- City News and Mayor Klein Update
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and make recommendations on several licenses and permits, including a public event permit for a charity ride, an alcohol license extension, and temporary licenses for Bacon Fest. They will also consider funding for an ADA ramp at the Riviera Sidewalk, a crosswalk on Townline Rd., and awarding a bid for the White River Disc Golf Course Pedestrian Bridge Replacement Project. The committee will review pre-paid and regular checks totaling $253,939.90.
- Public Event Permit for Fat Tire Charity Ride on Sept 21, 2024, starting/ending at Champs Sports Bar, 747 W Main St
- Alcohol license extension for Lake City Social's Murals in Motion Art Party, May 17-18, 2024, at 111 Center St parking lot
- Temporary Class B beer/wine license for Walworth County Food & Diaper Bank's Bacon Fest, May 31-June 2, 2024, Flat Iron Park
- ADA ramp with handrail at Riviera Sidewalk and crosswalk on Townline Rd. at Sonata Way, funding sources to be identified
- Bid award for White River Disc Golf Course Pedestrian Bridge Replacement to Glen Fern Construction Co, not to exceed $197,900
Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee
The Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss its future meeting schedule and process. The agenda includes a public listening session with comments limited to 5 minutes. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Public listening session with 5-minute comment limit
- Discussion of future meeting schedule and process
The Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee held a public listening session to gather resident and owner input on the current STR ordinance. No formal decisions were made; the committee will review the ordinance and public comments at its next meeting on April 17, with a goal to present recommendations to the Planning Commission by May.
- Scheduled next meeting for April 17, 2024, 5-7 p.m. (unanimous)
- Agreed to review public comments and the STR ordinance at the next meeting
- Targeted May 2024 to present recommendations to the Planning Commission
Tree Board
The Lake Geneva Tree Board is meeting to discuss routine business including approving prior minutes, hearing an arborist report on cicada netting, and planning the Arbor Day celebration. The board will also vote on whether to move forward with a Tree Protector initiative. A walk-through of Hillmoor will follow the meeting.
- Vote on moving forward with Tree Protector program
- Arborist report on netting for cicadas
- Arbor Day Celebration planning with Parks Superintendent
- Approval of March 5, 2024 Tree Board minutes
- Walk-through of Hillmoor after adjournment
Public Works Committee
The Lake Geneva Public Works Committee is meeting to discuss and make recommendations on several public works items, including an alleyway on George Street, a sidewalk at Riviera, possible no-parking zones on Park Dr. at Commercial Ct., a crosswalk on South St. and Lake Geneva Blvd., a possible pedestrian lane on Lake Geneva Blvd., and a crosswalk on Townline Rd. at Sonata Way. The committee will also hear reports from the Director of Public Works, Parking Manager, and Kapur. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Discussion/recommendation on George Street alleyway
- Discussion/recommendation on Riviera sidewalk
- Discussion/recommendation on possible no-parking zones on Park Dr. at Commercial Ct.
- Discussion/recommendation on possible crosswalk on South St. and Lake Geneva Blvd. and possible pedestrian lane on Lake Geneva Blvd.
- Discussion/recommendation on possible crosswalk on Townline Rd. at Sonata Way
The Public Works Committee voted 5-0 to continue the George Street alleyway discussion, directing DPW to return with private contractor costs and possible easement/HOA options. It also approved adding a handrail to the Riviera sidewalk (to seek funding), painting no-parking zones on Park Dr. at Commercial Ct., continuing the South St./Lake Geneva Blvd. crosswalk discussion, and forwarding the Townline Rd./Sonata Way crosswalk to FLR for bids and funding.
- Continued George St. alleyway item; DPW to report private contractor costs, easement, HOA, code enforcement (5-0)
- Approved Riviera sidewalk with handrail; to seek funding source at FLR (5-0)
- Directed painting no-parking zones on Park Dr. at Commercial Ct. (5-0)
- Continued South St./Lake Geneva Blvd. crosswalk and pedestrian lane discussion; Kapur to send letters to residents (5-0)
- Forwarded Townline Rd./Sonata Way crosswalk to FLR for bids and funding decision (5-0)
Common Council
The Common Council approved the Gygax memorial statue donation and its site location, as recommended by the Plan Commission. It also denied two excessive tax claims, approved several palpable error assessment corrections, and issued conditional use permits for a commercial entertainment venue and a home renovation. The council approved a fuel pump replacement not to exceed $30,360.69 and extended the City Clerk's leave of absence with reduced hours.
- Approved Gygax memorial statue donation and site location (unanimous)
- Denied excessive tax claim for 101 Broad St Unit 306 (unanimous)
- Denied excessive tax claim for 101 Broad St Unit 504 (unanimous)
- Approved palpable error corrections for 6 properties (unanimous each)
- Approved Church in the Park event permit with sound restriction (unanimous)
- Approved fuel pump replacement up to $30,360.69 (8-0)
- Approved CUP for indoor commercial entertainment at 772 W. Main St Ste 302 (unanimous)
- Extended City Clerk's leave with reduced hours (unanimous)
Geneva Lake Environmental Agency
The Geneva Lake Environmental Agency board will hold its monthly business meeting, where it will consider approving the February 2024 financial reports and take possible action on the 2024-2030 plan, human resources (intern positions, OSHA compliance), water quality and AIS items (mobile CD3 unit, local ordinance training, USGS stream gauge), grants and equipment purchases, and marketing events. Public comments are limited to 5 minutes.
- Action on February 2024 income statement and balance sheet
- 2024-2030 Plan
- Intern positions and OSHA workplace compliance
- Mobile CD3 unit and USGS stream gauge
- Purchase of field tablet and additional laptop
Cemetery Board
The Lake Geneva Cemetery Board will review and discuss revised cemetery rules and regulations, a new columbarium purchase, and other cemetery operations. They will also meet the new Park Superintendent and review financial and DPW reports. The board is deciding whether to recommend these items to the City Council.
- Review revised Cemetery Rules/Regulations for recommendation to FLR/City Council
- Discuss moving columbarium purchase from 2027 to 2024
- Review March financial reports
- Discuss Oak Hill Cemetery Road status
- Consider adding Pioneer Cemetery to Pontem
The Lake Geneva Cemetery Board approved a motion to review financial reports every six months instead of every other month. They also approved paying for a logo design for updated rules and regulations, and approved purchasing a pamphlet to help identify Pioneer Cemetery grave sites. The board discussed but did not decide on road repairs, a new columbarium, and updated rules/regulations.
- Approved minutes from February 21, 2024 (5-0)
- Approved paying invoice for logo design when approved (5-0)
- Approved reviewing financial reports every six months (5-0)
- Approved purchasing Pioneer Cemetery pamphlet (5-0)
- Removed Free Little Library from future agenda (5-0)
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee approved several licenses and permits, including the Spring Wine Walk and Murals in Motion, and approved a fuel pump replacement. It voted 3-2 to send the ordinance on department head evaluations back to the Personnel Committee, and also approved the updated City Policy Manual by a 3-2 vote.
- Approved Temporary Operator Licenses for Spring Wine Walk (unanimous)
- Approved Tier 2 Event Permit for Murals in Motion (unanimous)
- Approved Public Event Permit for Church in the Park with sound restriction amendment (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 24-R22 for 2023 fund transfers (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 24-R23 for year-end budget amendment (unanimous)
- Sent Ordinance 24-01 on department head evaluations back to Personnel Committee (3-2)
- Approved updated City Policy Manual (3-2)
- Approved fuel pump replacement up to $30,360.69 (unanimous)
Board of Park Commissioners
The Board of Park Commissioners will consider recommendations on replacing two bridges at White River Disc Golf Park, installing Story Book Trails boxes, adding Hillmoor signage, and approving sponsorships at Veterans Park and Disc Golf Park. The board will also hear a presentation from Friends of Hillmoor and approve the previous meeting's minutes.
- Recommendation to replace two bridges at White River Disc Golf Park
- Recommendation for Story Book Trails boxes
- Recommendation for Hillmoor signage
- Recommendation for sponsorships at Veterans Park and Disc Golf Park
- Friends of Hillmoor presentation
The Lake Geneva Board of Park Commissioners approved a construction bid for replacing two bridges at White River Disc Golf Park, with one abstention. The board also discussed replacing Story Book Trails boxes, Hillmoor signage, and park sponsorships, but took no formal votes on those items. Public comments raised concerns about bridge design consistency, dog leash time limits, and requests for more detailed information in packets.
- Approved construction bid for two bridges at White River Disc Golf Park (motion by Linda Frame, second by Cindy Fueredi, Ann Esarco abstained)
- Approved February 2024 minutes (motion by Cindy Fueredi, second by Ann Esarco)
- Adjourned meeting (motion by Cindy Fueredi, second by Linda Frame)
Utility Commission
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission is meeting to discuss and take action on several utility items, including water and sewer agreements, a major infrastructure project, and acceptance of new improvements. The agenda includes routine approvals of minutes, financials, and bills, as well as a director's report. Key action items involve the Pioneer Estates water and sewer agreements, moving the Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project to bidding, and a VFD replacement at the Water Treatment Plant.
- Discussion/Action on Pioneer Estates water and sanitary sewer agreements and related metering/billing
- Discussion/Action on proceeding to bidding for Big Foot Lift Station Force Main Replacement Project
- Discussion/Action on proposal for replacement VFD at Water Treatment Plant
- Discussion/Action on sanitary sewer easement on parcels ZA447400002, ZA447400001, ZCL200013D
- Discussion/Action on acceptance of water and sewer improvements for Vistas of Edgewood Hills and Summerhaven Phase II & III
Plan Commission
The Lake Geneva Plan Commission is meeting to review several development proposals and public hearing items. They will consider conceptual plans for developments at Geneva Square and 817 N. Knoll Ln., a site plan for a Gary Gygax memorial in City Park, and conditional use permits for a pool hall and a home renovation. They will also discuss amending the zoning code on murals and review proposed mural locations.
- Conceptual review of Geneva Square development at 80 East Geneva Square (PD zoning)
- Conceptual review of Canyon Development Group proposal at 817 N. Knoll Ln. (PD zoning)
- Site plan for Gary Gygax memorial donation in City Park
- Public hearing for CUP for pool hall at 772 W. Main St. (CB zoning)
- Public hearing for CUP for home renovation at 1633 Lake Shore Dr. (ER-1 zoning)
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee is meeting to review and approve prior minutes and hear reports on investments, gifts, donations, library impact fees, and building and grounds. Financial reports are tabled until the next meeting due to the City audit.
- Review and approval of previous meeting minutes
- Investment, gift, and donation update and report (banking update)
- Library impact fees
- Building and grounds report
- Financial reports tabled until next meeting due to City audit
Hillmoor Ad Hoc
The Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss updates on the Hillmoor property, including a presentation on the UniverCITY program from UW Madison, a Knowles-Nelson Grant update, a Friends of Hillmoor report, and correspondence about opening Hillmoor trails. No official City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Presentation: UniverCITY program at UW Madison by Gavin Luter, Managing Director
- Update: Knowles-Nelson Grant by Paula Porubcan/Karen Yancey
- Friends of Hillmoor Report by Betty Volquardsen
- Update: ABC too subgroup by Betty/Adam/Cheri
- Update: Opening of Hillmoor trails - correspondence from Samantha Ingo, Parks Superintendent
Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee
The Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee will meet to discuss and possibly recommend action on bids for the Lagoon Pier Replacement project. The agenda also includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and public comments. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Discussion/Possible Recommendation regarding Lagoon Pier Replacement bids
- Approval of minutes from February 13, 2024
Historic Preservation Commission
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission approved a $30,000 Certified Local Government Grant for an archaeological survey of the Hillmoor Golf Course property, with work starting late May or early June. The commission also discussed updates on the Historic Preservation Ordinance, the Three Graces statue restoration, and short-term rental regulations, but no other formal votes were taken.
- Approved $30,000 grant for Hillmoor archaeological survey
- Approved minutes from February 13, 2024 meeting
- Noted City Council approved Ad Hoc committee on short-term rentals; rules unchanged
- Discussed but took no action on Historic Preservation Ordinance revisions
- Discussed but took no action on Three Graces statue restoration funding
- Discussed but took no action on railroad site paver repairs
Tourism Commission
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission is meeting to discuss tourism promotion activities, receive updates from VISIT Lake Geneva and the Business Improvement District, and review financial reports on room tax dollars and outstanding grants. The commission will also consider several tourism grant requests, including the Riviera Ballroom Wood Floor Project, and discuss revisions to the grant application process.
- Riviera Ballroom Wood Floor Project grant request
- Fall 2024 & Winter 2025 Promo grant request
- Tavern League of Wisconsin Spring Conference 2024 grant request
- Wee Whiskey Fest grant request
- Discussion on City website link and grant application revision
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will discuss and potentially act on accepting a donated Gygax memorial statue and referring it to the Plan Commission for location designation, as well as creating a Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee. The agenda also includes a consent agenda with event permits and liquor licenses, and several resolutions approving fund balances for various city accounts.
- Gygax memorial statue donation acceptance and referral to Plan Commission
- Resolution 24-R21 creating a Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee
- Public event permits for Studio Wine Run 5K, Bacon Fest, and Spring Wine Walk
- Temporary liquor licenses for Irish Trivia Night and Spring Wine Walk
- Task Order #32 for pedestrian improvements along South Street
The Common Council approved Task Order #32 for pedestrian improvements along South Street, but removed the South Street & Lake Geneva Blvd. intersection portion. The council also approved the Gygax memorial statue donation and referred it to the Plan Commission, created a Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee, and approved multiple fund balance resolutions. A motion to reconsider the lagoon pier removal was ruled out of order because the contract was already signed.
- Approved Task Order #32 for South Street pedestrian improvements, minus the South Street & Lake Geneva Blvd. intersection (4-3)
- Referred Gygax memorial statue donation to Plan Commission for location designation (unanimous)
- Created Short-Term Rental Ad Hoc Committee (unanimous)
- Approved assigned fund balances for Avian Committee, Historic Preservation Commission, Park Commissioners, Fire Department, First Responders, Fire Dues, Police Department, Never Say Never Playground (all unanimous)
- Approved replacement of #15 & #16 One-Ton Plows (unanimous)
- Approved annual TAPCO Preventative Maintenance Contract (unanimous)
- Approved pre-paid and regular check reports from March 5, 2024 (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including event permits and licenses (7-0)
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission will vote on resolutions approving fund balances for donations and other accounts, approve police and fire department bills, confirm hiring of officers and firefighters, and adopt new Lexipol policies. The meeting also includes discussion of EMS billing changes and a closed session on a fire service agreement with the Town of Linn.
- Approval of Resolution 24-R16 for First Responders donations fund balance as of 12/31/23
- Approval of police bills for February 2024 totaling $282,058.69
- Confirmation of hiring Full Time Officers Jacob Rockweiler and Cody Worth
- Approval of Lexipol policies including Use of Force and Bias-Based Policing
- Approval of hiring FF/EMT Kalib Gorecki and FF/EMR Peter Jones
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District Board of Directors is meeting to discuss and potentially approve nonprofit bylaws and the 2024 annual marketing plan. The agenda also includes reports from the treasurer, executive director, and committee updates, along with public comments.
- Discussion/approval of nonprofit bylaws
- Review of 2024 annual marketing plan
- Treasurer's report on balance sheet, budget vs actuals, and bill payments
- Event planning recap: Wine Walk, Murals in Motion, Oktoberfest
- Update on Hwy 50 resurfacing project
Tree Board
The Lake Geneva Tree Board is meeting to discuss routine tree-related business. Items include an arborist report on spongy moths and cicadas, planning the Arbor Day celebration and tree planting, and an update on the Tree Protector program. No official City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Arborist report on spongy moths and cicadas
- Set date for Arbor Day celebration and tree planting
- Tree Protector program update
- Approval of February 13, 2024 meeting minutes
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and make recommendations on several event permits, alcohol licenses, and resolutions approving assigned fund balances for various city accounts. They will also consider a task order for pedestrian improvements, equipment purchases, and a maintenance contract. The meeting is open to the public in person and virtually.
- Public event permits for Studio Wine Run 5K (May 27) and 4th Annual Lake Geneva Bacon Fest (May 30-June 2)
- Temporary Class B wine license for Downtown Lake Geneva Spring Wine Walk (April 7)
- Original Class B Beer & Class C Wine license for Lake Geneva Billiards 'High Rollers Suite'
- Resolutions 24-R12 through 24-R20 approving assigned fund balances for various donation accounts
- Task Order #32 for pedestrian improvements along South Street
Personnel Committee
The Lake Geneva Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss several personnel-related topics, including an updated City Policy Manual, elected officials' participation in Government 101, use of city vs. private emails by council members, and a proposed amendment to City Code section 2-49(3)(c) regarding the Personnel Committee. No official Council action will be taken at this meeting, though a quorum of the Council may be present.
- Discussion/possible recommendation on updated City Policy Manual
- Discussion on Participation in Government 101 by Elected Officials
- Discussion on use of City Emails vs Private Emails by Council Members
- Discussion/possible recommendation on proposed amendment to City Code section 2-49(3)(c) Personnel Committee
- Approval of minutes from August 7, 2023, and February 20, 2024
Committee of the Whole
The Lake Geneva Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive presentations on the Badger and Jt. #1 Schools referendum questions for the April 2 ballot, and an update from VISIT Lake Geneva. They will also hear the Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee report and various standing committee reports. No official action will be taken.
- Presentation on Badger and Jt. #1 Schools referendum questions by Superintendent Dr. Peter Wilson
- VISIT Lake Geneva update by Stephanie Klett and Deanna Goodwin
- Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee report
- Reports from standing committees (Finance, Personnel, Public Works, Piers/Harbor/Lakefront)
- Reports from commissions and boards (Utility, Tree, Police/Fire, Plan, Parks, Library, Historic Preservation, Avian, Tourism, Cemetery)
Hillmoor Ad Hoc
The Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss the status of temporary trail openings at the Hillmoor property, updates on archaeology and Knowles-Nelson grants, and a possible action from the ABC Too subgroup regarding playgrounds. The committee will also hear a report from the Friends of Hillmoor and approve minutes from the prior meeting. No official City Council action will be taken.
- Status of opening Hillmoor property temporary trails
- Update on Archaeology Grant
- Update on Knowles-Nelson Grant
- Presentation/possible action from ABC Too subgroup on playgrounds
- Report from Friends of Hillmoor
The Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee approved a motion to include deconstructed playgrounds, fitness equipment, and green restrooms along the Hillmoor trails, to be integrated with other concepts. They also discussed the $30,000 archaeology grant from the CLG, which was received, and debated the Knowles-Nelson grant application, with no final decision made. The committee also discussed trail opening details, including rules and signage.
- Approved motion to include deconstructed playgrounds, fitness equipment, and green restrooms along Hillmoor trails (unanimous)
- Received $30,000 CLG archaeology grant; Paula Porubcan and Peg to serve as co-project managers
- Discussed Knowles-Nelson grant application; no vote taken, decision deferred to March 14 meeting
- Discussed temporary trail opening; gate will be closed to vehicles, parking lot accessible
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will consider several items, including the city's vehicle parking sticker policy, a bid for lagoon pier removal, and a water service request from Grand Geneva Resort. They will also discuss a complimentary event request, a beach pass donation, and enter closed session to discuss the City Clerk's employment.
- Parking sticker policy discussion (committee recommends keeping current policy)
- Bid award for Lagoon Pier Removal to Bruceskis Inc, not to exceed $24,900
- Water service request by Grand Geneva Resort & Spa for employee dormitory
- Complimentary Riviera Ballroom event request by Lake Geneva Public Library
- Donation of beach passes to Friends of Woods School (committee recommends denial)
Cemetery Board
The Lake Geneva Cemetery Board will meet to discuss routine business including approving minutes, financial reports, and DPW updates. Key items include a proposal to move the purchase of a new columbarium from 2027 to 2024 due to cremation trends, and a review of revised Cemetery Rules/Regulations for potential recommendation to the City Council.
- Discussion on notifying families of damaged headstones and documenting it in Pontem
- Review of 2024 WAC dues
- Proposal to move columbarium purchase from 2027 to 2024
- Review of revised Cemetery Rules/Regulations for ordinance recommendation
- Discussion on Oak Hill Cemetery Road status
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will review various city permits, including event requests and alcohol licenses. The committee will also discuss the city's parking sticker policy, purchasing procedures, and a $24,900 bid for lagoon pier removal. Additionally, members will review accounts totaling $887,151.99 in pre-paid and regular checks.
- Bid award for Lagoon Pier Removal to Bruceskis Inc for $24,900
- Tier-1 Event Permit for Badger Homecoming Parade on October 4, 2024
- Alcohol License Premises Extension for L.G. Axe Throwing at 253 Center St
- Discussion on City's vehicle parking sticker policy
- Review of accounts: $77,291.19 in pre-paid and $809,860.80 in regular checks
Personnel Committee
The Personnel Committee is meeting to consider employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data for the City Clerk, which will be discussed in closed session. The committee may take action on items discussed after returning to open session. No official Council action will be taken, though a quorum of the Council may be present.
- Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(c) regarding City Clerk employment data
- Possible action on closed-session items after returning to open session
Board of Park Commissioners
The Board of Park Commissioners will meet to discuss the potential renaming of a park and the installation of the Gygax Memorial Statue. The meeting also includes updates on the Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee and a Department of Public Works report regarding a dog fence quote.
- Discussion and recommendation regarding Gygax Memorial Statue and park renaming
- Department of Public Works update including dog fence quote
- Update on Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee
Hillmoor Ad Hoc
The Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss and possibly recommend sub-group proposals for a dog park, a disc golf course, and organic golf at Hillmoor. They will also receive an update on a Knowles Nelson grant and hear a report from Friends of Hillmoor. No official City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Possible recommendation on dog park sub-group proposal
- Possible recommendation on disc golf course sub-group proposal
- Update on Knowles Nelson grant
- Presentation on organic golf by Hank Sibbing and Fred Gahl
- Report from Friends of Hillmoor
Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee
The Piers, Harbors, and Lakefront Committee will meet to discuss updates on 2024 leases, a repair estimate from Gage Marine for 2023 season pier damage, and a request for proposals (RFP 2024-05) for lagoon pier removal. No official Council action will be taken; the committee may make recommendations.
- Update on 2024 Leases
- Discussion of Gage Marine estimate for repairing 2023 season pier damage
- Discussion of RFP 2024-05 for Lagoon Pier Removal
Historic Preservation Commission
The Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission will review minutes, hear public comments, and receive updates on local historic sites and events. Key discussions include the possible nomination of the former Hillmoor Golf Course as a National Historic Landscape, the 2024 budget, and the cost of historic plaques at $258.48 each. The commission will also consider the 2023 Certified Local Government Annual Report and potential ordinance revisions.
- Discussion of Hillmoor Archaeological Survey grant and possible National Historic Landscape nomination
- Review of 2024 LGHPC Budget and final 2023 budget balance
- Historic plaque cost: $258.48 each from Timberline Signs
- Update on Three Graces statue relocation and repair plans
- Discussion of 2023 Certified Local Government Annual Report and Chapter 34 ordinance revisions
Tree Board
The Lake Geneva Tree Board meets to discuss winter tree damage, downtown tree protectors, and recommendations for Hillmoor. The agenda also includes a board member introduction and the approval of past minutes from November 7, 2023. No official City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Arborist Report on winter tree damage by Jon Foster
- Downtown tree protectors update by Peg Esposito
- Hillmoor recommendations discussion by Sonya Dailey
- Hillmoor discussion by Peg Esposito
- Introduction of new Board member by Mayor Klein
Tourism Commission
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission will discuss promotional grant requests, including revisions for The Balloon Adventure and Art in the Park. The meeting also features updates from VISIT Lake Geneva, the Business Improvement District, and independent contractor Heather Jones regarding promotional activities. Additionally, the commission will review room tax financials, grant disbursements, and Riviera event rental fee waivers.
- Request to revise previously awarded grant for The Balloon Adventure
- Tourism Promotional Grant request for Art in the Park
- Riviera agreement for events requesting rental fee waivers
- Written financial update on room tax dollars, budget, and unpaid tourism grants
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will discuss and potentially act on several items, including extending the solid waste contract with John's Disposal through 2029, approving pay requests and task orders for street projects, and amending the Business Improvement District budget and bylaws. They will also consider WisDOT's proposal for a center turn lane on Main Street, accept road dedications for two developments, and review the Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee's planning process.
- Extend Solid Waste Contract with John's Disposal through Dec 31, 2029
- Pay Request #3 from Wolf Paving for 2023 Streets Project
- Task Order #31 by Kapur & Associates for 2024 Street Program
- Amend 2024 BID Budget adding $3,000 for Accounting Services
- WisDOT Proposal for Center Turn Lane on Main St between Edwards and Curtis St
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Personnel Committee will meet to conduct a closed session regarding the employment, compensation, and performance of library staff. Following the closed session, the committee may return to open session to take action on these personnel matters.
- Closed session regarding employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation of all library staff
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Public Library Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee will meet to review monthly invoices and receive a report on investments and donations. The committee will also discuss the current status of the library building and grounds.
- Review and approval of previous month’s invoices
- Investment, gift, and donation banking update
- Building and grounds report
Library Board
The Library Board will meet to review committee reports, including financial expenditures and building maintenance. The agenda also includes reports from the Library Director, the Friends of the Library, and representatives from the City and School Board.
- Review and approval of previous month’s expenditures
- Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee report
- Personnel Committee Report
- Friends of the LGPL report
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission will meet to review December 2023 and January 2024 bills for both departments and discuss personnel changes, including new hires, resignations, and status changes. The agenda also includes updates on monthly activity reports, policy updates, and fire department staffing.
- Approve December 2023 police bills totaling $42,336.04 and January 2024 police bills totaling $476,872.00
- Confirm status change of Part Time Officer Jason Brown to Full Time Officer and hiring of two Full Time Officers
- Approve December 2023 fire department bills totaling $37,658.47 and January 2024 fire department bills totaling $89,209.47
- Appointment of twelve full time candidates from the Full Time Firefighter/Paramedic eligibility list
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District Board of Directors is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, receiving reports from the treasurer and executive director, and hearing updates from city officials and VISIT Lake Geneva. Key items include discussion and possible approval of the annual marketing plan, a recap of event planning, an update on the Hwy 50 resurfacing project, and presentations on non-profit bylaws and fiscal responsibility. The board will also review conflict of interest statements and board signatures.
- Annual Marketing Plan Discussion/Approval
- Update on Hwy 50 resurfacing project
- Presentation/Discussion of non-profit bylaws
- Non-profit update for fiscal responsibility
- Review of Conflict of Interest statements and board signatures
Avian Committee
The Lake Geneva Avian Committee will conduct a final review of Bird City applications and discuss financial planning for 2024. The committee will also address strategic planning, potential grant funding, and methods for volunteer recognition.
- Final review of Bird City Applications
- 2024 Financial Review
- Discussion of partnerships and grant opportunities
- Planning for volunteer recognition
Committee of the Whole
The Lake Geneva Committee of the Whole is meeting to hear reports, announcements, and presentations from city officials and committees. The agenda includes presentations on Spongy Moths and Cicadas by Public Works, as well as a report from the Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee. Standing committees, boards, and commissions will also share updates.
- Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee Report by Mayor Klein
- Presentation regarding Spongy Moths by Jon Foster, Public Works
- Presentation regarding Cicadas by Jon Foster, Public Works
- Standing committee reports from Finance, Personnel, Public Works, and Piers, Harbor, and Lakefront
- Reports from various city boards and commissions including Utility, Tree, Police and Fire, Plan, and Library
Hillmoor Ad Hoc
The Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee will meet to discuss Hillmoor-related topics, including a presentation on habitat restoration for hike, bike, and ski trails, a review of the project planning process, and public communications. No official City Council action will be taken.
- Introduction of new Parks Superintendent Samantha Ingo
- Presentation on Habitat Restoration for Hike, Bike, Ski Trails by Paula P. and Betty V.
- Review of project planning process led by Mike K.
- Discussion of public communications (COW, social media, newspaper) led by Fred G.
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will discuss and vote on several resolutions authorizing over $7 million in general obligation bonds for street, park, library, and fire department improvements. The council will also review a WisDOT proposal for a center turn lane on Main Street and a YMCA letter of intent to purchase part of the Hillmoor property.
- Resolution 24-R01 authorizing $4,360,000 in bonds for street improvements
- Resolution 24-R04 authorizing $1,700,000 in bonds for parks and public grounds
- Resolution 24-R05 authorizing $835,000 in bonds for library projects
- Resolution 24-R06 authorizing $220,000 in bonds for fire department equipment
- Event permits for Art in the Park and Venetian Fest 2024
Hillmoor Ad Hoc
The Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss and possibly act on a proposed Living Amphitheater, review the latest letter of intent from the YMCA, and hear reports from members who met with the YMCA. The committee will also hear a report from the Friends of Hillmoor and approve prior meeting minutes. No official City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Presentation/Discussion and Possible Action on proposed Living Amphitheater
- Discussion of most recent letter of intent from the YMCA
- Report from committee members who attended a meeting with the YMCA
- Report from Friends of Hillmoor
- Approval of January 4, 2024 minutes
Geneva Lake Environmental Agency
The Geneva Lake Environmental Agency board will hold its monthly business meeting, approving minutes from prior meetings and reviewing financial statements and reports. They will discuss possible actions on office services, strategic planning, water quality and aquatic invasive species management, grants and projects, marketing, and human resources. The agenda includes routine administrative items and several substantive topics, but no specific decisions are detailed in the agenda.
- Action on November and December 2023 Income Statement and Balance Sheet
- Discussion on forming a 501(c)(3) entity and legacy gift giving
- Bigfoot Creek Management Recommendations and local AIS ordinances (Chapter 30)
- Request for Proposals for Macroinvertebrate Survey and Aquatic Plant PI Survey
- DNR Surface Water Grant for Wake Enhancement
Cemetery Board
The Lake Geneva Cemetery Board will review and discuss updates to cemetery rules, particularly regarding responsibility for headstone damage and repairs, and consider joining the Wisconsin Association of Cemeteries (WAC) for 2024. The board will also review financial reports and discuss inviting the new Park Superintendent to a future meeting.
- Review of draft Rules/Regulations #11 on headstone damage/repairs, including opinions from City Attorney Draper and WAC President Damian Lenshek
- Discussion on notifying families of damaged headstones and maintaining documentation
- Consideration of paying $200 in WAC 2024 dues (budgeted in account #48-53200)
- Review of December 2023 financial reports
- Discussion of Tom Earle's DPW monthly report, including Columbarium niche repairs and Pontem GIS mapping glitch
Utility Commission
The Lake Geneva Utility Commission will meet to approve routine financials and bills, then discuss and potentially act on several infrastructure projects, including design engineering for the Big Foot Lift Station forcemain replacement, utility improvements along the STH 50 corridor, a replacement scum pump at the WWTP, and a water service request from Grand Geneva Resort & Spa. They will also consider agreements for Pioneer Estates water and sewer services, and enter closed session to discuss real estate purchase or sale.
- Design engineering proposal for Big Foot Lift Station forcemain replacement and relocation
- Utility improvements along WisDOT STH 50 project corridor
- Replacement scum pump at the wastewater treatment plant
- Water service request by Grand Geneva Resort & Spa for employee dormitory
- Pioneer Estates water and sanitary sewer agreements and metering/billing
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Library Board is meeting to review routine items like previous minutes, expenditures, and committee reports. The main substantive items are a presentation from Prairie Lakes Library System Administrator Steve Ohs on Walworth County funding and a review of the draft strategic plan narrative. The board will also consider a continuing education request from the director.
- Prairie Lakes Library System presentation on Walworth County funding
- Review of draft strategic plan narrative
- Review/approval of previous month's expenditures
- Donations/investments report
- Continuing education request for review/approval
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Library Personnel Committee is meeting to consider employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data for all library staff. The agenda includes a motion to go into closed session for this discussion, followed by a return to open session to take any action on items discussed. No other business is listed.
- Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(c) to discuss all library staff employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data
- Motion to return to open session and take action on closed-session items
Library Board
The Library Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee will meet to review library invoices and building reports. The committee will also discuss investment, gift, and donation updates with the City Finance Director and Comptroller.
- Review of previous month’s invoices
- Investment, gift, and donation report
- Building and grounds status report
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Lake Geneva Business Improvement District Board will hold a special meeting on January 10, 2024. The board plans to elect officers, review the treasurer's report and a proposed budget adjustment for accounting services, and discuss new business including a strategic plan, updated bylaws, and a contract agreement.
- Election of officers: Secretary, Treasurer, Vice President, and President
- Proposed adjustment to budget to include annual accounting services
- Strategic Plan review
- Updated Bylaw review
- Contract Agreement for Alexandria Binanti and Alethea Salgado
Avian Committee
The January 9, 2024 Avian Committee meeting was canceled due to weather. The agenda included routine items such as approving minutes, reviewing Bird City applications, and discussing the 2024 financial review and strategic planning.
- Meeting canceled due to weather
- Final review of Bird City Applications
- Update Financial Review for 2024
- 2024 Strategic Planning Meeting
- Partnerships, funding opportunities, and potential grants
Historic Preservation Commission
The January 9, 2024 meeting of the Lake Geneva Historic Preservation Commission was canceled due to weather. Scheduled agenda items included grant applications for the former Hillmoor Golf Course site, ordinance revisions, and plaque maintenance. The commission's next meeting was set for February 13, 2024.
- Discussion of a Certified Local Government Grant application and potential National Historic Landscape nomination for the former Hillmoor Golf Course
- Review of the 2023 Certified Local Government Annual Report and draft revisions to the Chapter 34 Historic Preservation Ordinance
- Updates on repairing and replacing historic district signs and plaques by Timberline Signs ($258.48 each)
- Status report on repairs and relocation of the Three Graces statue from Flat Iron Park to Geneva Lake Museum
- Repair assessments and replacement options for paver footprints at the Lake Geneva Historic Railroad Site
Tourism Commission
The Lake Geneva Tourism Commission is meeting to discuss and take action on tourism-related items, including a date change for the 2024 Taco Fest, tourism promotional grant requests, and updates on promotional activities and finances. The commission will also review the Riviera agreement for waived rental fees and a signed contract with VISIT Lake Geneva. No official City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Discussion/Action on Tourism Promotional Grant Program and Requests
- Discussion/Action on 2024 Taco Fest date change from Sept 20-22 to Sept 13-15
- Riviera agreement for events requesting waived rental fees
- Update on Room Tax Dollars Collected, Financials, Budget & Disbursements
- Review of signed 2024 VISIT contract with Tourism Commission
Common Council
The Lake Geneva Common Council will meet to discuss routine administrative items, including a wine license for Mashtun Brewing LLC and a temporary license for a Chili-Cook Off at St Francis de Sales Catholic Church. The council will also consider event permit fees, a Riviera Ballroom event request for Lake Geneva Winterfest, and a Knowles-Nelson Grant for Hillmoor wetlands. Residents can attend in person or access the meeting via virtual and telephone links.
- Original "Class C" Wine License for Mashtun Brewing LLC at 700 Veterans Pkwy #203
- Temporary Class "B" retailer's license and operator license for St Francis de Sales Parish Chili-Cook Off on January 20, 2024, at 148 W Main St
- Complimentary Riviera Ballroom Event Request for VISIT Lake Geneva Winterfest from January 29, 2024, to February 4, 2024
- Resolution 24-R01 adopting Event Permit fees for Private and Public Events
- Discussion regarding Knowles-Nelson Grant for Hillmooor wetlands
Library Board
The Lake Geneva Library Finance, Building, & Grounds Committee is holding a special meeting to review investment funds and options. The agenda includes only this review item, along with standard procedural items like call to order and roll call.
- Review of investment funds and options
Hillmoor Ad Hoc
The Hillmoor Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to review its mission statement and goals, hear a report from the Geneva Lake Conservancy on kayak trails, and discuss the progress of focus groups, including a potential YMCA focus group. The committee will also discuss public input meetings. No official City Council action will be taken at this meeting.
- Review of Mission Statement and Goals
- Report from Geneva Lake Conservancy on kayak trails
- Discussion of focus group progress, including potential YMCA focus group
- Discussion of public input meetings
- Next meeting scheduled for January 18, 2024
Police and Fire Commission
The Lake Geneva Police and Fire Commission will meet to approve December 2023 bills for both departments and accept various donations. The commission will also review monthly activity reports, staffing updates, and conduct a closed session regarding police department personnel.
- Approval of $183,574.51 in Police Department bills
- Approval of $173,804.63 in Fire Department bills
- Acceptance of $1,200 in donations for Shop with a Cop
- Acceptance of resignations from CSO Lucas Hughes and CSO Gordon Hinrichs
Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee
The Finance, Licensing, and Regulation Committee will discuss and make recommendations on several licenses and permits, including a new wine license for Mashtun Brewing, a temporary liquor license for a church chili cook-off, and a complimentary use of the Riviera Ballroom for Winterfest. They will also consider a resolution adopting event permit fees and review pre-paid and regular bills totaling over $211,000.
- Original Class C Wine License for Mashtun Brewing LLC at 700 Veterans Pkwy #203
- Temporary Class B retailer's license for St Francis de Sales Parish Chili-Cook Off on Jan 20, 2024
- Temporary Operator License for Robert E McCormick Jr for the Chili-Cook Off
- Complimentary Riviera Ballroom request for Lake Geneva Winterfest (Jan 29-Feb 4, 2024)
- Resolution 24-R01 adopting Event Permit fees; Pre-paid bills $60,346.78; Regular bills $151,543.06