Merrill public meetings in 2021

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will review minutes from its November 18 meeting, discuss talking points for public information, and consider the hiring or contracting procedure for a Communications Specialist. The meeting is open to the public with remote attendance options.

• Discuss talking points for public information
• Consider hiring/contracting procedure for Communications Specialist
• Approve minutes of November 18, 2021 meeting

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved the minutes of its November 18, 2021 meeting and discussed four public-information talking points that had recently been presented in a radio interview. The committee reviewed information comparing a "Communications Specialist" and a "Marketing Specialist" position; the Communications Specialist would be an outside contracted role, not a City employee. Recruiting will start locally and expand if no suitable local candidate emerges, and Scott Steele said he will meet with City Administrator Johnson on the recruiting and hiring procedures. No hiring or contract was approved, and no vote was recorded on the position.

• Approved minutes of the November 18, 2021 meeting (motion Weix/Blake)
• Discussed four public-information talking points; no vote recorded
• Reviewed comparison of Communications Specialist vs. Marketing Specialist roles; no vote recorded
• Set next meeting for Thursday, January 20, 2022 at 5:15 P.M. in City Hall Common Council Chambers
• Adjourned at 6:07 P.M. (motion Weix/Blake, carried)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on airport operations and future projects. Key items include the status of the Runway 16/34 project, a discussion on the F-84 aircraft display and mounting, and a decision on T-hangar and future projects. The commission will also consider airport maintenance staff pay scale and approve meeting minutes and vouchers.

• Runway 16/34 project status update
• Discussion on F-84 display and mounting
• Discussion/decision on T-hangar and future projects
• Airport maintenance staff pay scale review
• Approval of meeting minutes and vouchers

The Merrill Airport Commission approved pay raises for maintenance staff and discussed upcoming 2021 entitlement projects, T-hangar drainage solutions, and the Runway 16/34 project status. Commissioners also reviewed airport maintenance, lighting delivery, and a public comment regarding hangar property taxes.

• Approved November 17, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved payment of vouchers
• Raised pay for Craig Hanig to $23.00 an hour
• Raised pay for Hugh Hanig to $15.00 per hour

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet December 14, 2021 to decide on a 3.0% increase to water and sewer service fees for 2022, approve changes to the police union contract regarding residency requirements, and consider reclassifying the Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator position. The council will also vote on a liquor license for B's Nest at 1404 W. Main Street and a conditional use permit for a doublewide housing unit at 2801 Thielman Street.

• 3.0% adjustment to Water & Sewer Service Fees for 2022 (Board of Public Works recommends approval)
• Amendment to police union contract residency date from 1/1/2016 to 1/31/2016 (Personnel and Finance Committee recommends approval)
• Adjustments to hourly Certification Pay for Utility Employees (Personnel and Finance Committee recommends approval)
• Reclassification of Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator position from Grade 11 to Grade 12 (Personnel and Finance Committee recommends approval)
• Class "B" liquor license for B's Nest, 1404 W. Main Street (Health and Safety Committee recommends approval)

The Council approved an ordinance regarding trees and shrubs and authorized a conditional use permit for a housing unit at 2801 Thielman Street. Members also approved various personnel and utility fee adjustments. A resolution to declare the city a 'Constitutional Republic City' failed following a tie-breaking vote by the Mayor.

• Approved ordinance #2021-19 regarding trees and shrubs (8-0)
• Approved 3.0% adjustment to 2022 Water & Sewer Service Fees
• Approved liquor and beer license for B's Nest, LLC
• Approved reclassification of Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator
• Approved conditional use permit for 2801 Thielman Street
• Resolution declaring city a Constitutional Republic City failed (4-4, Mayor voted No)
• Approved appointment of Nicole Johnson to Housing Authority

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee is holding a special meeting with a closed session to discuss personnel issues, including citizen feedback and an employee's personnel file. The committee may reconvene in open session to take action on these matters. The agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Closed session under Wisconsin Statutes 19.85(1)(f) for personnel data
• Review of citizen feedback documents related to City employees
• Review of a City employee's personnel file
• Potential action on closed session issues in open session

The committee convened in a closed session to review citizen feedback regarding city employees and a specific personnel file. No other substantive actions were taken during the meeting.

• Moved to closed session (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Plan Commission

The City Plan Commission will meet to review a request for a Conditional Use Permit amendment. The commission will also receive a report on Certified Survey Maps.

• Public hearing for Conditional Use Permit amendment for a Doublewide Housing Unit at 2801 Thielman Street (Whispering Pines)
• Oral report from Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator Pagel on Certified Survey Maps

The City Plan Commission approved a conditional use permit amendment for a doublewide housing unit at Whispering Pines, located at 2801 Thielman Street. The application was forwarded to the Common Council for consideration at their December 14, 2021 meeting. The commission also approved the minutes from their November 2, 2021 meeting.

• Approved November 2, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved conditional use permit for 2801 Thielman Street
• Forwarded permit application to Common Council for December 14 meeting

Police and Fire Commission

The Merrill Police and Fire Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss current employment levels and may enter closed session to interview police officer candidates. Following the closed session, the commission may reconvene in open session to take action on a police officer eligibility list.

• Discussion on current employment levels
• Closed session for police officer candidate interviews
• Possible action on police officer eligibility list

The Merrill Police and Fire Commission met on December 6, 2021, and approved four applicants in the police hiring process, pending their qualifications and testing requirements being met. The commission also went into closed session to consider employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data of public employees. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 6:35 p.m.

• Approved four applicants in the hiring process brought by Chief Bennett, pending qualifications and testing requirements met (5/5)
• Convened in closed session under Wisconsin State Statutes Section 19.85(1)(c) to consider employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data (motion carried)
• Reconvened in open session (motion carried)

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will meet to review routine vouchers, monthly reports from city departments, and a proposed 3.0% adjustment to water and sewer service fees for 2022. The board will also consider a referral from the Historic Preservation Committee regarding an Honorary Street Designation policy and receive updates on automated collections.

• Consider 3.0% adjustment to Water & Sewer Service Fees for 2022
• Consider referral from Historic Preservation Committee on Honorary Street Designation policy
• Automated Collection Update
• Monthly reports from Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator Pagel, Public Works Director/City Engineer Akey, Street Superintendent Bonack, and Street & Weed Commissioner Liberty
• Establish date, time and location of next regular meeting

The Board of Public Works approved a 3.0% adjustment to Water & Sewer Service Fees for 2022, which Mayor Woellner said applies only to specialized services and would not raise a standard water bill. The board also approved water and sewer vouchers, public works vouchers, a referral from the Historic Preservation Committee on an honorary street designation policy, and placed monthly reports on file. An automated collection update was given for information only, with June 6, 2022 as the target implementation date, and no action was taken. The meeting adjourned at 5:35 P.M.

• Approved water and sewer vouchers
• Approved 3.0% adjustment to Water & Sewer Service Fees for 2022, sent to Council (next: 12/14/2021 6:00 PM)
• Approved Board of Public Works vouchers
• Approved referral from Historic Preservation Committee related to Honorary Street Designation policy
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Set next regular meeting for Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at 5:15 P.M. in City Hall Common Council Chambers
• Adjourned at 5:35 P.M.

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to discuss the potential transfer of the Legion Building and property to the Parks Department. The body will also review the policy for shelter reservation start dates.

• Potential transfer of Legion Building and property to Parks Department
• Review of policy regarding shelter reservations beginning after the New Year
• Update on Sumnicht Property

The commission approved a shift to year-round shelter reservations starting in January 2022. Members also recommended that the City Council return the Legion Building to the Parks Department for park use.

• Approved year-round shelter reservations starting January 3, 2022 (unanimous)
• Recommended City Council return Legion Building to Park Department for park use (unanimous)
• Approved November meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved November claims (unanimous)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Merrill Personnel and Finance Committee will consider several personnel and financial matters, including a request from Trinity Church Daycare for American Rescue Plan funding, potential outside legal services for the city, and changes to the Employee Handbook regarding vacation donations and retirement dates. The committee will also review union contract adjustments for police and adjustments to certification pay for utility employees.

• Consider $ request from Trinity Church Daycare for American Rescue Plan funding
• Consider changes to Employee Handbook for vacation donation and retirement date policies
• Consider adjustments to 2022-2023 union contract for Merrill Professional Police Association residency rules
• Consider adjustments to hourly Certification Pay for Utility Employees
• Consider reclassification of Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator position

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved a requested date change in the 2022-2023 Merrill Professional Police Association contract, adjustments to hourly certification pay for utility employees, and reclassification of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator position — all sent to the Common Council for its December 14, 2021 meeting. It also approved changes to Employee Handbook sections 12-11-6 and 12-12-4 allowing unlimited donation of vacation time to another employee for sick leave, with the policy to be reviewed during the 2023 budget process. A request from Trinity Church Daycare for $88,398 in American Rescue Plan funding for playground equipment was not decided; a motion to approve $10,000 failed for lack of a second, and the request was placed on the next regular meeting agenda. The committee took no action on a presentation about outside legal services or on a proposed addition to Employee Handbook Section 9-3 on retirement effective dates, and it did not reconvene in open session after two closed sessions.

• Approved vouchers (Osness/Blake)
• Trinity Church Daycare's $88,398 American Rescue Plan request: motion to approve $10,000 failed for lack of a second; request placed on next regular meeting agenda
• Approved Employee Handbook changes (Sections 12-11-6 and 12-12-4) allowing unlimited donation of vacation time for sick leave, with review during the 2023 budget process (Blake/Osness)
• No action on addition to Employee Handbook Section 9-3 regarding employee retirement effective date
• Approved police union contract date change in Article 3 and sent to Council (Osness/Blake); next 12/14/2021 6:00 PM
• Approved adjustments to hourly certification pay for utility employees and sent to Council (Blake/Osness); next 12/14/2021 6:00 PM
• Approved reclassification of Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator position and sent to Council (Blake/Osness); next 12/14/2021 6:00 PM
• Placed monthly reports on file (Osness/Blake)

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will hear COVID-19 reports, discuss nuisance complaints and vouchers, and consider a liquor license application. The main action item is a request from B's Nest, LLC for a Class 'B' beer and liquor license at 1404 W. Main Street, effective December 17, 2021. The committee will also review minutes and monthly reports from the fire chief, police chief, and humane society.

• Consider Class 'B' beer and liquor license for B's Nest, 1404 W. Main Street, effective December 17, 2021
• COVID-19 reports
• Nuisance complaints and vouchers
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and Lincoln County Humane Society
• Minutes of October 25, 2021 meeting

The Health and Safety Committee approved a Class B beer and liquor license for B's Nest, LLC, and forwarded the application to the City Council. The committee also approved vouchers and the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved Class B beer and liquor license for B's Nest, LLC at 1404 W. Main Street (Approved & Sent to Council)
• Approved vouchers (Approved)
• Approved October 25, 2021 meeting minutes (Approved)
• Placed monthly reports on file (Placed on File)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will meet to discuss the budget for marketing, branding, and communications. The committee will also discuss a timeline.

• Discussion of Marketing, Branding & Communications Budget
• Discussion of Timeline

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved minutes from previous meetings and authorized Scott Steele by consensus to begin the process of hiring a contracted Communications Director following the Common Council's approval of $110,000 for marketing in the 2022 City Budget.

• Approved minutes of October 6, 2021 meeting
• Approved minutes of October 21, 2021 meeting
• Authorized Scott Steele to begin the process of hiring a Communications Director

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will approve past meeting minutes and vouchers, discuss upcoming holiday events and senior programs, and set goals for 2022. The group will also review a marketing budget request and decide whether to skip the December meeting.

• Approval of October meeting minutes and October/November vouchers
• Holiday events including Thanksgiving outreach, Holiday shopping event, and Christmas Joy
• Stockboxes for Seniors program discussion
• Marketing committee budget request approval
• No December meeting; next meeting January 20, 2022

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee met on November 18, 2021, and approved its October 2021 minutes and October/November 2021 vouchers by voice votes. The rest of the meeting was informational: updates on Thanksgiving meals, a December shopping event, Christmas Joy Deliveries, possible participation in a state senior food program, leftover Lifting Lincoln County outreach funds, and ADRC staffing and vaccine outreach. The committee will not meet in December; its next meeting is January 20.

• Approved October 2021 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved October/November 2021 vouchers (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried)
• No December meeting; next meeting January 20 at 2:15pm

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is meeting to discuss T-hangar construction and airport rents. The body will also review the status of the Runway 16/34 project and 2021 entitlement projects.

• Decision on T-hangar construction and airport rents
• Status update on Runway 16/34 Project
• Discussion on F-84 display and mounting
• Update on 2021 entitlement projects
• Review of airport lighting and signage maintenance

The Commission approved the October 2021 minutes and payment of vouchers. Members discussed funding shortages for the T Hangar project and wind data discrepancies affecting the Runway 16/34 project.

• Approved October 2021 minutes
• Approved payment of vouchers

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including appointments to the Building and Grounds committee, a review of the Fines & Fees policy, and progress on Strategic Plan Goal #4. The board will also receive the Library Director's report and consider consent items such as the October minutes and financial reports.

• Review of Fines & Fees policy
• Appointments to Building and Grounds committee
• Strategic Plan Progress Goal #4
• Monthly Revenue & Expense Report for October and Invoice List
• Minutes of October 20, 2021 regular meeting

The Board approved an amendment to the Library Cards and Replacements policy and appointed members to the Building and Grounds committee. The Board also reviewed October financial reports and discussed strategic plan progress regarding school resource support.

• Approved October 20, 2021 meeting minutes
• Accepted October Revenue and Expense Report
• Nominated T. Meehean to prepare a slate of officers for January
• Appointed J. Wedemeyer as Chair and K. Breitenmoser as member of Building and Grounds committee
• Approved amending policy heading to 'Library Cards and Replacements'

Transit Commission

The Transit Commission will meet to receive the Administrator's report on ridership and employee status. The body will also review the 100 years of motor buses celebration.

• Administrator's report on ridership and employee status
• Review of 100 years of motor buses Celebration
• Possible closed session to discuss Transit Department personnel issues

The Merrill Transit Commission approved its October 2021 minutes unanimously and adjourned. The administrator reported ridership steady at about 170 per day, the hiring of full-time operator Rob Norton, and an ongoing search for part-time operators. The commission also heard that about 140 riders took the Nickel Tour marking 100 years of motorbus service, with coverage by channels 7 and 12. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved October 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Committee

The committee will review a final proposal for a street naming project to be sent to the Board of Public Works. Members will also work on a press release regarding the committee's mission and purpose.

• Final proposal for street naming project
• Press release on committee mission and purpose
• Discussion of projects by Steve Sabatke and Elizabeth McCrank
• Exterior Maintenance Report

The Historic Preservation Committee approved a proposed policy for honorary street naming and referred it to the Board of Public Works. The committee also approved the minutes from the October 13, 2021 meeting.

• Approved honorary street naming policy and referred to Board of Public Works (Carried)
• Approved October 13th, 2021 minutes (Carried)
• Scheduled next meeting for December 8th, 2021 (Carried)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet to discuss and vote on several key items, including the proposed 2022 budget, a police union contract, and updates to employee policies. The agenda also features public hearings, zoning requests, and ordinances regarding elected official salaries and redistricting.

• Public Hearing on proposed 2022 Budget and Ordinance Adopting the 2022 City of Merrill Budget and Establishing the Tax Levy for the Year 2021
• Resolution ratifying the January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2023 contract between the City and the Merrill Professional Police Association
• Request from Trinity Lutheran Church for a drop-off zone on Blaine Street
• Conditional Use Permit for shipping containers at 505 S. Pine Ridge Avenue
• New employee policies regarding vacation schedules, sick leave, and longevity pay of $2.50 for each month worked after five years

The Common Council adopted the 2022 City of Merrill budget and tax levy ordinance after a 4-4 roll call tie that Mayor Woellner broke by voting yes. Before the vote, the council cut Airport T-Hangar funding from $400,000 to $300,000 and approved buying 70 acres next to the City Forest for $140,000, also on a tie broken by the mayor. The council also raised the mayor's annual salary to $25,000 and the Street and Weed Commissioner's to $4,000, while a motion to raise alderperson salaries to $4,000 failed 2-6.

• Adopted 2022 City budget and tax levy ordinance (4-4 tie; mayor voted yes)
• Reduced Airport T-Hangar funding from $400,000 to $300,000 (6-2)
• Approved purchase of 70 acres adjacent to City Forest for $140,000, funded by grants or American Rescue Plan funds if needed (4-4 tie; mayor voted yes)
• Increased Mayor's annual salary to $25,000 (6-2)
• Increased Street and Weed Commissioner's annual salary to $4,000 (7-1)
• Motion to increase Alderperson annual salary to $4,000 failed (2-6)
• Approved ordinance raising Common Council President's additional pay from $500 to $260 annually (7-1)
• Approved street light at Harrison Street and Champagne Street (6-2 roll call)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to review the 2022 budget and discuss the Legion Building property. The body will also consider punch and season pass options for the Bierman Family Aquatic Center for 2022.

• Update on 2022 budget
• Discussion of Legion Building property
• Discussion of 2022 Bierman Family Aquatic Center punch and season passes

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission approved October meeting minutes and October claims, both unanimously. It decided to sell only punch passes at the Bierman Family Aquatic Center for summer 2022 rather than season passes, with staff citing uncertainty over refunds if worker quarantines forced the pool to close. A discussion of the Legion Building property, which returned to the city from the historical society, was tabled for a vote at the December meeting. The 2022 budget was only an update; the final budget meeting is set for November 9.

• Approved October meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October claims (unanimous)
• Decided to sell punch passes only at Bierman Family Aquatic Center for 2022, not season passes
• Legion Building property discussion tabled; vote set for December meeting
• Adjourned at 4:50 p.m. (unanimous)

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will review 2022 infrastructure investments funded by Tax Incremental District (TID) No. 8 and discuss potential affordable housing support for a WHEDA tax credit application. The body will also consider future redevelopment plans for 401-403 W. Main St. under TID No. 8.

• Consider approval of October 6, 2021 meeting minutes
• Review 2022 TID-funded infrastructure investments
• Discuss potential affordable housing support for WHEDA tax credit application (TID No. 8)
• Review future redevelopment plans for 401-403 W. Main St. (TID No. 8)

The RDA approved the October 6th meeting minutes. Members discussed potential affordable housing support for a WHEDA tax credit application and reviewed TID-funded infrastructure investments for 2022. The board reached a consensus to issue a Request for Proposals for the redevelopment of the vacant site at 401-403 W. Main St.

• Approved October 6th meeting minutes (Carried)
• Consensus reached to issue Request for Proposals for redevelopment of 401-403 W. Main St.

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposal to place shipping containers at the Walmart located at 505 S. Pine Ridge Ave. The meeting will also include an oral report from the Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator on Certified Survey Maps.

• Public hearing on shipping containers at Walmart, 505 S. Pine Ridge Ave.
• Oral report from Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator Pagel on Certified Survey Maps

The City Plan Commission approved a recommendation to grant a Conditional Use Permit for the placement of shipping containers at the Walmart located at 505 S. Pine Ridge Ave. This recommendation will be presented to the Common Council on November 9, 2021. The commission also approved the minutes from the September 7, 2021, meeting.

• Approved September 7, 2021 meeting minutes
• Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for 505 S. Pine Ridge Ave

Tourism Commission

The Tourism Commission is meeting to discuss financial planning for the upcoming year. The body will review and vote on the proposed 2022 budget and grant applications.

• Review and approval of 2022 grant applications
• Review and approval of 2022 proposed budget

The Merrill Tourism Commission approved $41,050 in grants to 11 local events and adopted an $82,250 total budget for 2022, both by unanimous votes. The Lincoln County Fair received $12,500, which is $2,500 more than it requested, with the extra to be used for advertising outside its normal areas. The Commission also discussed but did not decide whether to move to two grant application periods per year, and agreed to consider helping the city with re-branding Merrill.

• Approved minutes from the November 5, 2020 meeting (motion carried)
• Approved $41,050 in grants to 11 events (unanimous)
• Granted Lincoln County Fair $12,500, which is $2,500 above its $10,000 request
• Granted Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo $12,500 as requested
• Granted Merrill Ice Drags $5,000 as requested
• Granted Merrill Area Lion's Labor Day Car Show $1,100 as requested
• Approved $82,250 total Tourism Commission budget for 2022 including grants (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 1:29 pm (motion carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will discuss and consider the 2022 budgets for landfill, water, sewer, general operations, and capital projects. The meeting also includes updates on water and sewer rates and a review of the projected tax base and preliminary tax levy.

• 2022 Capital Budget requests
• Water and Sewer Rates update
• 2022 budgets for Landfill, Water, Sewer, and General Operations
• Tax Increment Districts (TIDs) review
• Projected Tax Base and Preliminary Tax Levy review

The Committee of the Whole approved several 2022 budget items, including funding for marketing, airport infrastructure, and park equipment. The committee also voted to limit the tax rate increase to 2%.

• Approved $110,000 for marketing (5-4)
• Approved $400,000 for Airport T-Hangar (5-4)
• Denied $140,000 Park and Rec land purchase (3-6)
• Approved $20,000 for Park and Rec plow (5-4)
• Approved mulch and pit toilets while denying other requests (5-3)
• Approved $4,500 for the health office (voice vote)
• Approved 2% tax rate increase (voice vote)

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works is meeting to consider requests for a daycare drop-off zone on Blaine Street and a new street light at Harrison Street and Champagne Street. The board will also discuss lowering the current $175 zoning and planning appeal fee, along with regular water, sewer, and departmental vouchers and reports.

• Request from Trinity Lutheran Church for a drop-off zone on Blaine Street
• Request for a street light at Harrison Street and Champagne Street
• Consider lowering the $175 Zoning Board of Appeals fee
• Water and sewer vouchers and operations report
• Board of Public Works vouchers

The Merrill Board of Public Works approved water and sewer vouchers, public works vouchers, a daycare drop-off zone on Blaine Street, and a street light at Harrison and Champagne streets. A proposal by the Mayor to lower the Zoning Board of Appeals fee failed due to a lack of a second. Monthly reports were also placed on file.

• Approved water and sewer vouchers
• Approved board of public works vouchers
• Approved Trinity Lutheran Church drop-off zone on Blaine Street and sent to council
• Approved street light at Harrison Street and Champagne Street and sent to council
• Motion to reduce zoning and planning appeal fee from $175 to $50 failed due to lack of a second
• Placed monthly reports on file

Personnel and Finance Committee

The committee will review the city's hiring freeze policy and discuss strategies for employee recruitment, retention, and succession. Members will also evaluate recent presentations from legal firms.

• Review of hiring freeze policy
• Discussion on legal firm presentations
• Planning for employee recruitment, retention, and succession
• Closed session for negotiations with the Merrill Professional Police Association

The committee approved an increase in the annual clothing allowance for specific city departments. Vouchers and monthly reports were approved and placed on file. The committee also held a closed session to negotiate with the Merrill Professional Police Association.

• Approved vouchers
• Approved increase of annual Clothing Allowance to $300 for Street, Utility, and Parks & Recreation employees effective January 1, 2022
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Approved convening in closed session for negotiations with Merrill Professional Police Association (3-0)

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will meet to review nuisance complaints and vouchers. The body will discuss animal control and provide an update on a specific liquor license application.

• Update on Class B Combo license for 116 N. Prospect Street
• Discussion on animal control
• Review of nuisance complaints and vouchers
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and Lincoln County Humane Society

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee approved committee vouchers and the minutes from the September 27, 2021 meeting. The committee also voted to place monthly reports on file, and received updates regarding COVID-19 activity, nuisance complaints, animal control, and departmental reports.

• Approved vouchers
• Approved minutes of September 27, 2021 meeting
• Placed monthly reports on file

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will discuss the Communications, Personnel, and Budget sections of the Marketing, Branding and Communications Initiative, and consider budget recommendations to forward to the October 29 Committee of the Whole Budget Meeting. They will also review feedback from the Merrill Chamber of Commerce regarding an October 20 presentation by Melissa Wyrcha.

• Update on reaction from Merrill Chamber of Commerce to October 20 presentation by Melissa Wyrcha
• Discussion of Communications, Personnel, and Budget sections of the Marketing, Branding and Communications Initiative
• Consider budget recommendations for October 29 Committee of the Whole Budget Meeting

The committee discussed updates regarding the Merrill Chamber of Commerce, reviewed proposed staffing and advertising costs for a 2022 marketing budget totaling $100,000 to $120,000, and discussed a proposed request of $125,000 using Cable Franchise Fee funds. No formal votes or final budget approvals were recorded, as proposals were slated for consideration at a later budget meeting.

• Adjourned the meeting at 6:06 P.M. (Weix/Van Lieshout)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will meet to review the 2022 budget, discuss holiday outreach programs, and address center operations including mask use. The committee will also review the results of the October Fall Craft & Market Event and consider meeting quorum requirements.

• Review of the 2022 budget
• Discussion of Thanksgiving and Christmas outreach
• Results of October Fall Craft & Market Event
• December 3rd shopping event planning
• Discussion on mask use

The committee approved the August 2021 minutes and vouchers. Members decided that the November meeting will be the final meeting of the year.

• Approved August ’21 minutes (carried)
• Approved August ‘21 vouchers (carried)
• Decided November will be the last meeting of the year

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is meeting to review routine items like minutes and vouchers, and to get updates on the Runway 16/34 project and 2021 entitlement projects. The main discussion and decision items are the construction of T-hangars and setting airport rents, along with a discussion on displaying and mounting an F-84 aircraft.

• Runway 16/34 project status update
• Discussion on F-84 aircraft display and mounting
• Update on 2021 entitlement projects
• Discussion/decision on T-hangar construction and airport rents
• Airport general maintenance, including outside lighting and signage

The Merrill Airport Commission approved its September 2021 minutes and paying vouchers. It voted to replace only 2 of the 3 ramp lights after learning the cost per lamp was $1,000.00 plus installation, more than previously approved. The commission also discussed, without deciding, the Runway 16/34 project, the F84 display, entitlement money, the T Hangar project, and aviation fuel testing.

• Approved September 2021 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved paying the vouchers (motion passed)
• Approved replacing only 2 of the 3 ramp lights (motion passed)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion passed)

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to discuss operational and strategic items, including a proposal to eliminate late fines, updates on the library’s endowment fund, and progress on the strategic plan. The board will also review monthly financial reports and receive updates on COVID-19 protocols and library standards.

• Consideration of eliminating late fines policy
• Proposals for Endowment Fund investments
• Monthly Revenue & Expense Report for September (with invoice list)
• Minutes approval for September 15th, 2021 meeting

The T. B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees voted to eliminate late fines for most materials, effective November 17, 2021. The Board also approved the purchase of new monitors and service desks using endowment funds. A decision regarding a proposed wage study was deferred pending further information.

• Approved elimination of most late fines (carried)
• Approved September 15, 2021 meeting minutes (carried)
• Accepted September Revenue and Expense Report (carried)
• Approved new monitors and service desks (carried)
• Tabled wage study proposal (carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is holding a budget session to discuss the 2022 city budget. They will receive updates on net new construction, state levy limits, and the Consumer Price Index for the Expenditure Restraint Program, as well as on borrowing capacity and 2022 debt service. The committee will consider 2022 capital budget requests and potential infrastructure projects.

• Update on Net New Construction, State Levy Limit, and CPI for Expenditure Restraint Program
• Update on City Borrowing Capacity and 2022 Debt Service
• Consider 2022 Capital Budget Requests
• Consider 2022 Potential Infrastructure Projects

The Committee of the Whole reviewed and acted on numerous 2022 capital budget requests for city departments, including public works, police, fire, and IT. Several infrastructure projects were approved for 2022, while others were deferred to the 2023 budget or referred to an all-day budget session for further consideration.

• Approved $40,000 for City Hall roof (5-4)
• Approved River Bend to Prairie Trail connection (6-3)
• Approved $135,000 for Street Department front end loader
• Approved $52,000 for Maintenance Department truck
• Approved $110,000 for IT wireless replacements
• Approved $42,000 for police body camera/video equipment
• Deferred 70-acre City Forest land purchase to next meeting (4-4 tie)
• Referred remaining Parks & Recreation requests to budget session

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will hold a special meeting to consider lifting the hiring freeze to fill one full-time and two part-time driver positions in the Transit Department. The committee may also convene in closed session to negotiate with the Merrill Professional Police Association.

• Consider lifting hiring freeze for one full-time and two part-time Transit Department driver positions
• Possible closed session for negotiations with Merrill Professional Police Association

The Personnel and Finance Committee voted to lift a hiring freeze to allow the Transit Department to fill one full-time and three part-time driver positions. The committee also convened in a closed session to conduct negotiations with the Merrill Professional Police Association.

• Approved lifting hiring freeze for one full-time and three part-time transit roles
• Sent transit hiring request to City Council
• Convened in closed session for police union negotiations (3-0)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will convene to approve past meeting minutes, hear the administrator’s quarterly report, and discuss future agenda items. The meeting includes a public comment period and a recognition of the 100 years of motor buses celebration.

• Approve minutes of September 2021 meeting
• Review 3rd quarter Transit Department operations
• Celebrate 100 years of motor buses
• Discuss future agenda items
• Consider closed session for personnel issues

The Commission approved the minutes from the August 2021 meeting. Members also received updates on staffing, ridership numbers, and the upcoming 100-year Motorbus anniversary celebration.

• Approved August 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss city employee recruitment and retention, pay for elected officials, and the future use of the former American Legion building (Livingston Center). No formal decisions are listed on this agenda.

• City employee recruitment and retention
• Pay for elected officials
• Future of Livingston Center (former American Legion building)

The committee discussed city employee recruitment and retention, pay for elected officials, and the future of the Livingston Center without making final binding policy decisions. A report on recruitment and retention was referred to the next council meeting, and the Livingston Center item was directed to the Park and Recreation agenda.

• Referred recruitment and retention report to the next council meeting
• Referred the Livingston Center to the Park and Recreation agenda

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to discuss strategies for communicating ordinance changes to the public and registry property owners, as well as developing a historical resource list for property owners. The agenda also includes discussion on admirable street names, approval of previous minutes, public comment, and setting the next meeting date.

• Discuss strategy on communicating ordinance changes to public and registry property owners
• Discuss admirable street names
• Discuss developing a historical resource list for property owners

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee approved its September 8, 2021 minutes and set its next meeting for November 10, 2021. Members discussed how to communicate ordinance changes to the public and agreed a complete policy on memorial street names should be prepared and approved by the committee before being recommended to the Board of Public Works. Alderman Steve Sabatke requested that the next agenda include consideration of designating the Livingston Center (former American Legion building) as a historic structure, and said Jon Malm is not interested in purchasing it at this time. No ordinance changes, designations, or street memorials were decided at this meeting.

• Approved September 8, 2021 minutes (Caylor/Sabatke) — carried
• Scheduled next meeting for Wednesday, November 10, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. in City Hall Common Council Chambers (Caylor/McCrank) — carried
• Adjourned at 6:49 P.M. (McCrank/Sabatke) — carried
• No vote taken on memorial street name policy; Mike Caylor to prepare a proposal for the next meeting
• No vote taken on Livingston Center historic designation; Alderman Sabatke requested it be placed on the next agenda

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will receive a presentation by Andrew Faust from the North Center Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission on aldermanic redistricting based on the 2020 census. No formal decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.

• Presentation by Andrew Faust, GISP on aldermanic redistricting post-2020 census

The Merrill Committee of the Whole listened to a presentation on aldermanic redistricting based on the 2020 census by Andrew Faust of the North Central Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission. Following the presentation, the committee approved changes to the aldermanic maps to send on to the city council. The meeting was adjourned at 5:44 p.m.

• Approved changes on aldermanic maps and sent to council

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet to consider two ordinances regarding accessory structures and the Housing Authority, as well as a development agreement with Merrill Pine Ridge Shopping Center, LLC. The council will also review a resolution regarding a COVID-19 vaccine mandate, a hiring freeze request for the Street Department, and new vision, mission, and values statements.

• Consider an ordinance amending Code of Ordinances Chapter 113 related to accessory uses or structures
• Consider an ordinance amending Chapter 2 regarding the composition and duties of the Housing Authority
• Consider a resolution authorizing a Development Agreement with Merrill Pine Ridge Shopping Center, LLC
• Consider a resolution regarding a COVID-19 vaccine mandate for City employees
• Consider a request to lift a hiring freeze for a pending vacancy in the Street Department

The Merrill Common Council approved a development agreement for the Pine Ridge Shopping Center with an incentive payment not to exceed $325,000, and passed a resolution opposing COVID-19 vaccine mandates for city employees. The council also approved an ordinance amending regulations on accessory structures and referred an ordinance regarding the Housing Authority to a future Committee of the Whole meeting.

• Approved minutes and revenue/expense reports (Voice vote)
• Approved Marketing and Communications vision, mission, and values statements (Voice vote)
• Approved lifting the hiring freeze for a Street Department vacancy (Voice vote)
• Placed 12 committee reports on file (Voice vote)
• Approved Ordinance #2021-15 amending accessory uses or structures (6-2)
• Referred Housing Authority ordinance changes to Committee of the Whole (5-3)
• Approved Resolution #2709 for the Merrill Pine Ridge Shopping Center LLC development agreement (6-2)
• Approved Resolution #2710 opposing COVID-19 vaccine mandates for city employees (5-3)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet on October 6, 2021, to approve minutes and claims, hear public comment, and discuss several items. Key topics include potential pedestrian safety measures for the soccer field area at the Merrill Area Recreation Complex, an update on the 2022 budgetary process, and the Labor Day Parade & Festivities. The meeting will also include monthly reports and setting the next meeting date.

• Discuss potential pedestrian safety measures for soccer field area at Merrill Area Recreation Complex
• Update on 2022 budgetary process
• Discuss Labor Day Parade & Festivities
• Approve claims
• Approve minutes from previous meeting

The Commission agreed to paint curbs yellow and add crosswalk signs and paint across Marc Drive to improve pedestrian safety. The board also discussed transferring organization of Labor Day festivities to another entity.

• Approved September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September claims (unanimous)
• Agreed to paint curbs yellow and add crosswalk signs and paint across Marc Drive

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Merrill Marketing & Communications Committee holds a special meeting to review past activities and discuss potential marketing partnerships with the Merrill Chamber of Commerce. A presentation is provided by Scott Steele from Church Mutual Insurance Company.

• Review of past Marketing & Communications Committee activities
• Presentation by Scott Steele, VP/CMO of Church Mutual Insurance Company
• Discussion of possible marketing collaboration with Merrill Chamber of Commerce

The committee held a special meeting to review current marketing activities and receive a presentation on branding initiatives from Scott Steele of Church Mutual Insurance. Members also discussed potential collaboration opportunities between the City of Merrill and the Merrill Chamber of Commerce. No formal votes or substantive policy decisions were recorded during this meeting.

• Adjourned meeting (Carried)

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority is meeting to review the status of 2021 infrastructure projects and financing, discuss the 2021 S&P Global Rating Report and General Fund advances, and consider 2022 Tax Increment District budget requests. The board may also enter closed session to discuss potential development incentives for Pine Ridge Plaza (TID No. 4) and approve related minutes.

• Update on 2021 infrastructure projects and financing (TID Project Status & Financing)
• Review and discussion of 2021 S&P Global Rating Report and General Fund advances
• 2022 Tax Increment District budget requests
• Closed session to consider negotiation terms for development incentives for Pine Ridge Plaza (TID No. 4)
• Approval of RDA meeting minutes from September 1st

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority approved September 1 meeting minutes, moved into closed session, and recommended a TID No. 4 development agreement with Pine Ridge Shopping Center, LLC. The agreement includes a $75,000 cash development incentive and a $300,000 property purchase by the city, contingent on five-year minimum commercial leases. The authority also heard project status updates on TIDs, a $250,000 Idle Sites Grant award, and reviewed preliminary 2022 TID budget requests.

• Approved RDA meeting minutes from September 1st (carried)
• Moved into closed session (Carried 5-0 on roll call vote)
• Approved closed session meeting minutes from September 1st (carried)
• Recommended the TID No. 4 development agreement with Pine Ridge Shopping Center, LLC with five-year minimum commercial lease contingencies (carried)
• Adjourned at 9:27 a.m. (Carried)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider lifting the hiring freeze to fill a vacancy in the Street Department, hear presentations from legal firms for potential outside legal services, and discuss succession planning for the Mayor, City Administrator, and City Attorney positions. They will also review outside legal invoices from 2020 and 2021 and receive monthly reports from various departments.

• Request to lift hiring freeze for Street Department vacancy
• Presentations from legal firms for outside legal services
• Succession planning for Mayor, City Administrator, and City Attorney
• Review of 2020 and 2021 outside legal invoices
• Monthly reports from Municipal Court, Finance Director, City Attorney, City Clerk, City Administrator, and Fire Department

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved vouchers and voted to lift the hiring freeze to fill a pending vacancy in the Street Department, sending that item to the Common Council on October 12, 2021. Three law firms presented on potentially providing outside legal services, but no action was taken. On succession planning, no plans were made for the Mayor, City Administrator, or City Attorney positions; the committee agreed wages and benefits should be discussed early in the budget process, with Thursday, October 14th suggested for a Committee of the Whole meeting. Monthly reports were placed on file.

• Approved vouchers
• Approved lifting the hiring freeze to fill a pending Street Department vacancy; sent to Council (next: 10/12/2021 6:00 PM)
• No action taken after presentations from three law firms on outside legal services
• No succession plans made for the Mayor position
• No succession plans made for the City Administrator position; item not discussed
• No succession plans made for the City Attorney position
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Set next regular meeting for Thursday, October 26th, 2021 at 5:15 P.M. in City Hall Common Council Chambers

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works is meeting to review routine vouchers and monthly reports, and to consider two specific items: a request from Pier 2 Citgo, LLC to install two signs in the boulevard on Pier Street at 504 East Second Street, and parking lot hard surfacing and drainage at 422 East Second Street. The meeting also includes public comment and setting the next meeting date.

• Consider request from Pier 2 Citgo, LLC to install two signs in the boulevard on Pier Street at 504 East Second Street
• Parking lot hard surfacing and drainage at 422 East Second Street
• Water and Sewer Vouchers
• Board of Public Works Vouchers
• Monthly reports from Building Inspector, Public Works Director, Street Superintendent, and Street & Weed Commissioner

The Board of Public Works approved Water and Sewer vouchers and Board of Public Works vouchers, both without recorded dissent. It approved a request from Pier 2 Citgo, LLC to install two signs in the boulevard on Pier Street at 504 East Second Street. It also approved an extension until October 1st, 2022 for a building or completion of hard-surfacing and internal drainage at 422 East Second Street, the former Clark station site. Monthly reports were placed on file; the meeting adjourned at 5:38 P.M.

• Approved Water and Sewer vouchers
• Approved Board of Public Works vouchers
• Approved Pier 2 Citgo, LLC request to install two boulevard signs on Pier Street at 504 East Second Street
• Approved extension until October 1st, 2022 for building or hard-surfacing and internal drainage at 422 East Second Street
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Set next regular meeting for Wednesday, October 27th, 2021 at 5:15 P.M. in City Hall Common Council Chambers

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will meet to discuss COVID-19 reports, nuisance complaints, and vouchers. The agenda also includes a hearing on a taxicab business license application from Midwest Taxi, LLC, along with monthly reports from the fire and police chiefs.

• Hearing on Taxicab Business license application from Midwest Taxi, LLC (Nathan Woller)
• Discussion of nuisance complaints and vouchers
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug and Police Chief Bennett

The committee approved a taxicab business license for Midwest Taxi, LLC and authorized the payment of vouchers. Members also reviewed COVID-19 reports, nuisance complaint updates, and monthly reports from the police and fire departments.

• Approved vouchers (motion carried)
• Approved taxicab business license for Midwest Taxi, LLC (motion carried)
• Approved August 23, 2021 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion carried)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee is holding a special meeting to enter closed session for negotiations with the International Association of Firefighters Local 847. The agenda includes public comment and a closed session for bargaining, followed by adjournment.

• Closed session for negotiations with International Association of Firefighters Local 847

The committee convened a special meeting to conduct contract negotiations with the International Association of Firefighters Local 847. The session was held in closed session pursuant to Wisconsin State Statutes 19.85(1)(e). No other substantive actions were recorded.

• Moved to closed session (3-0)
• Conducted contract negotiations with IAFF Local 847

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding a meeting on September 20, 2021, at City Hall and via call-in. The agenda consists largely of administrative updates, including a COVID-19 update, employee status, school year operations, and event recaps, alongside a discussion on a 100 years of motor buses celebration.

• Approve minutes from the August 2021 meeting
• Administrator's report covering COVID-19, employee status, school year, Community Night Out, and Barley Fest
• Discussion on 100 years of motor buses celebration

The Merrill Transit Commission approved its August 2021 minutes unanimously and received an administrator's report covering COVID-19 mask requirements, a part-time driver job posting, the school year, and Barley Fest service on October 2. Members also discussed the 100 Years of Motorbus anniversary, including two WJMT dates (10/8 and 10/26) and outreach to a theater group for narrators. No other substantive decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned unanimously.

• Approved August 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will ask the Common Council to approve its vision, mission, and values statements. A presentation by Melissa Wrycha will cover current occupational data, benefits, target audience personas, communications objectives, and social media plans. The committee will also set the date for its next meeting.

• Request approval of Vision, Mission, and Values statements
• Presentation by Melissa Wrycha on city marketing strategy and social media objectives

The Marketing & Communications Committee voted to recommend approving updated vision, mission and values statements and send them to the Common Council, which is scheduled to take them up on 10/12/2021. The committee also approved minutes from its July 22 and August 19, 2021 meetings, heard a presentation by Melissa Wrycha on occupations, benefits, target audience, communications objectives and social media, and set three future meeting dates. No public comment was offered.

• Recommended approving the updated vision statement and sent it to the Common Council (motion Weix/Blake, carried)
• Recommended approving the updated mission statement and sent it to the Common Council (motion Weix/Blake, carried)
• Recommended approving the updated values statements and sent them to the Common Council (motion Weix/Blake, carried)
• Approved minutes of the July 22, 2021 meeting (motion Weix/Blake, carried)
• Approved minutes of the August 19, 2021 meeting (motion Weix/Blake, carried)
• Set future meetings for October 21, November 18 and December 16, 2021, all at 5:15 P.M. in City Hall Common Council Chambers
• Adjourned at 6:35 P.M. (motion Weix/Blake, carried)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee met on September 16, 2021, to review August minutes and vouchers, discuss operations including federal mandates and mask use, and consider the 2022 budget. They also discussed a potential partnership with Friends of the River Bend Trail for an event and received updates from the ADRC.

• Approval of August meeting minutes
• Approval of August vouchers
• Discussion of federal mandates impact on City operations
• Discussion of mask use
• Discussion of 2022 budget

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved its August 2021 minutes and vouchers, both by motion with no recorded opposition. The committee discussed a 2022 budget draft requesting $14,250 in revenue, which members said seemed high compared to actual 2020 fees of $2,576 and 2021 fees of $5,500 to date. It also heard COVID-19 operational updates and ADRC program announcements, and agreed to continue planning a joint event with Friends of the River Bend Trail next summer. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved August 2021 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved August 2021 vouchers (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several operational items, including the 2022 budget draft and the rental of T-Hangar 10. They will also review the status of the Runway 16/34 project and other entitlement projects, and discuss displaying an F-84 aircraft.

• Discussion/Decision on 2022 Budget Draft
• Discussion/Decision on T-Hangar 10 Rental
• Runway 16/34 Project Status update
• Discussion on F-84 Display and Mounting
• Update on Entitlement Projects 2021

The Airport Commission approved the purchase and installation of three additional LED lights for the fuel farm and apron. Commissioners also approved the August 18, 2021 meeting minutes and the payment of vouchers, and discussed the 2022 budget draft, hangar rentals, and upcoming project timelines.

• Approved August 18, 2021 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Approved payment of vouchers (all ayes)
• Approved purchase and installation of three additional LED lights for the fuel farm/apron (all ayes)

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees is holding its regular meeting, with a preliminary discussion on eliminating late fines, an update on Covid-19, and a review of strategic plan progress. The board will also consider consent items including the August minutes and monthly revenue and expense report.

• Preliminary discussion on eliminating late fines
• Update on Covid-19
• Strategic Plan Progress Goal #2
• Monthly Revenue & Expense Report for August and Invoice List
• Minutes of regular meeting of August 18th, 2021

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved the August 18, 2021 meeting minutes and the monthly Revenue and Expense Report for August. The Board also discussed the potential elimination of late fines and heard updates regarding Covid-19, strategic planning, and library operations.

• Approved minutes of the regular meeting of August 18, 2021
• Accepted monthly Revenue and Expense Report for August

Common Council

The Common Council will consider several financial and property items, including relinquishing ownership of the Livingston Center in exchange for a $10,000 payment, adding a 23rd police officer position, and authorizing multiple bond issuances totaling over $4.5 million. The council will also review bids for the Webster Street extension, a street closure permit for the Haunted Sawmill, and two ordinance amendments. A recommendation to disallow an insurance claim for a motorcycle towing expense is also on the agenda.

• Relinquish claims to Livingston Center for $10,000 from Merrill Historical Society upon sale
• Consider adding 23rd Police Officer position
• Authorize sale of up to $1,680,000 GO Corporate Purpose Bonds, Series 2021A
• Authorize sale of up to $1,150,000 GO Promissory Notes, Series 2021B
• Authorize $1,195,000 TIF Revenue Bond (TID 11) and $565,000 TIF Bond Anticipation Note (TID 10)

The Common Council approved the $338,731.52 low bid for the Webster Street extension and authorized the issuance of several series of bonds and notes. The Council also approved a development agreement with S.C. Swiderski, LLC for residential construction and voted to add a 23rd police officer position. Additionally, the Council disallowed an insurance claim regarding a motorcycle disablement and referred the Livingston Center building matter to the Committee of the Whole.

• Approved $338,731.52 Webster Street extension bid
• Approved 23rd police officer position
• Disallowed insurance claim from Richard Kotschi
• Approved $1.68M bond and $1.15M note issuance
• Approved $1.195M and $565,000 tax increment revenue bonds
• Approved S.C. Swiderski, LLC development agreement
• Approved vacation of alley in Block Twelve
• Tabled Livingston Center building ownership decision

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will consider a grant request from Friends of Vincent Foundation for the Haunted Sawmill, discuss adding a 23rd police officer position, and review budget goals and timeline. The committee may also enter closed session to discuss revisions to the Ambulance Service Contract.

• Consider request from Friends of Vincent Foundation for Haunted Sawmill under American Rescue Fund grant program
• Consider addition of 23rd Police Officer position
• Discuss budget goals and timeline
• Closed session to consider potential revisions to Ambulance Service Contract

The Merrill Committee of the Whole voted to deny an American Rescue Fund grant request for the Haunted Sawmill and approved adding a 23rd police officer position to send to the common council. The committee also scheduled budget meetings for October and November and held a closed session regarding the ambulance service contract.

• Denied American Rescue Fund grant request for Friends of Vincent Foundation – Haunted Sawmill and future funding requests
• Approved adding a 23rd police officer position and sent it to the common council
• Scheduled an all-day budget meeting for Friday, October 29 at 8 AM and a second meeting on Tuesday, November 19 at 5:30 PM
• Voted 9-0 on a roll call to convene in closed session to discuss the Ambulance Service Contract

Historic Preservation Committee

The Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to discuss updates from the City Plan Commission on ordinance changes, consider modifications to the Historic Preservation Repair Guidelines, and receive updates on the Legion building. The agenda also includes discussion of admirable street names and routine items like minutes approval and public comment.

• Update and discussion on ordinance changes from 9-7-21 City Plan Commission
• Consider changes to the Historic Preservation Repair Guidelines
• Update on Legion building
• Discussion of admirable street names

The Historic Preservation Committee approved a $75 nomination fee with specific exemptions and revised the historic building guidelines to be advisory rather than regulatory. The committee also discussed a proposal for memorial street blocks and received updates on the former American Legion building.

• Approved August 4th, 2021 minutes
• Withdrew motion for original ordinance with no fee
• Approved $75 nomination fee with exemptions for property owners, Common Council, and Mayor
• Approved Advisory Historic Building Guidelines with one sentence deleted under Roof Materials
• Adjourned meeting at 7:02 P.M.

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will review a zoning administrator’s report on certified survey maps, discuss updates to the Minimum Housing Code’s 'attractive appearance' definition and the city’s Junk Ordinance, and hold a public hearing on a proposed zoning ordinance amendment regarding accessory uses or structures. The meeting will also include a joint session with the Historic Preservation Committee to consider amendments to the Historic Preservation ordinance.

• Public hearing on proposed Zoning Ordinance Sec. 113-317 (accessory uses or structures)
• Discussion of 'Attractive Appearance' definition in Minimum Housing Code
• Discussion of repurposing items in Junk Ordinance
• Joint session with Historic Preservation Committee on ordinance amendments
• Oral report from Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator Pagel on Certified Survey Maps

The City Plan Commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting, heard a report on a certified survey map, and discussed definitions related to minimum housing code and the junk ordinance without taking action. The commission held a public hearing and recommended approval of Zoning Ordinance Sec. 113-317 regarding accessory uses and structures. Additionally, the commission voted 9-0 in a joint session to refer proposed amendments to the Historic Preservation ordinance back to the Historic Preservation Committee.

• Approved minutes of the August 3, 2021 meeting
• Recommended approving proposed City of Merrill Zoning Ordinance Sec. 113-317 related to accessory uses or structures
• Referred amendments to the Historic Preservation ordinance to the Historic Preservation Committee (9-0)

Fairgrounds Committee

The Merrill Festival Grounds Committee is meeting to discuss rental contracts, review the 2022 operating and capital budget requests, and receive updates on the rodeo and fair. The committee will also hear monthly reports from the grounds manager and a permanent vendor representative, and take public comment.

• Discuss Festival Grounds rental contracts
• Review 2022 Operating and Capital Budget requests
• Rodeo Update
• Fair Update
• Calendar of Events

The Festival Grounds Committee reviewed potential 2022 capital projects, including grandstand lighting and a new sound system. Members voted to refer the capital request list to the 2022 budget process. No formal action was taken regarding rental contracts, which will be revisited at a future meeting.

• Refer 2022 Festival Grounds capital request list to budget process (Approved)

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will review water/sewer vouchers, 2022 capital requests, and monthly reports. They will also discuss potential 2022 projects, including a street-use permit for a haunted house event on Hendricks Street and a petition for paving on Summit Avenue, Bramble Way, and Wildwood Lane.

• Street-use permit for Haunted Sawmill event on Hendricks Street (Oct 8–31, 2021)
• Petition for paving on Summit Avenue, Bramble Way, and Wildwood Lane (referred to 2022 budget)
• 2022 Capital Request for Front End Loader
• Review of drainage issues on Ninth Street and Third Street (referred to 2022 budget)
• Bids for Webster Street extension (due Aug 30, 2021) to be provided at meeting

The Board approved a recommendation to the Council to relinquish ownership of the Livingston Building in exchange for a $10,000 payment from the Merrill Historical Society. Several capital requests and paving petitions were referred to the 2022 budget process. The Board also approved a street use permit for a haunted house event.

• Approved recommendation to relinquish Livingston Building ownership for $10,000 payment (Sent to Council)
• Approved street use permit for The Haunted Sawmill on Hendricks Street (Sent to Council)
• Referred Webster Street extension bids to Common Council with no recommendation
• Referred 2022 capital requests for one ton truck, clarifier rehab, well rehab, and landfill blower to budget process
• Referred 2022 capital request for front end loader ($135,000) to budget process
• Referred paving petition for Summit Avenue, Bramble Way, and Wildwood Lane to budget process
• Referred 2022 potential projects list to budget process
• Approved Water & Sewer and Board of Public Works vouchers

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to approve the 2022 operational budget and continue discussions on capital projects, a park along West Highway 64, and forestry ordinances. They will also begin discussing the possibility of becoming an Ice Age Community. The meeting includes routine items like approving minutes and claims, plus public comment periods.

• Review & approve 2022 Operational Budget
• Continued discussion on 2022 Capital Projects & Equipment
• Continued discussion on park along West Highway 64
• Continued discussion on Forestry Ordinances
• Begin discussion on potentially becoming an Ice Age Community

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission approved and submitted its 2022 Operational Budget to the City Council, and voted to submit its 2022 Capital Projects and Equipment request to the Council for the Council to decide what to approve or deny. The Commission also approved Forestry Ordinance changes to send to the City Council, and chose 'WI River Parkway' as the name for the new park along West Highway 64. Discussion on becoming an Ice Age Community was introduced with no decision, and no action was taken on a proposed second driveway at the MARC.

• Approved August meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved August claims (unanimous)
• Approved and submitted 2022 Operational Budget to City Council as presented (unanimous)
• Voted to submit 2022 Capital Projects and Equipment request to City Council (no vote tally recorded)
• Selected 'WI River Parkway' as the name of the new park along West Highway 64 (vote taken, tally not recorded)
• Approved Forestry Ordinance changes to submit to City Council for approval (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 5:03 p.m. (unanimous)

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will meet to consider a development agreement with S.C. Swiderski, LLC for duplexes and single-family homes in TID No. 8. The board will also review historic Tax Incremental District revenues and discuss potential negotiation terms for cash development incentives at Pine Ridge Plaza in TID No. 4.

• Consider resolution authorizing development agreement with S.C. Swiderski, LLC for duplexes and single-family homes in TID No. 8
• Review historic Tax Incremental District (TID) revenues, expenses, current fiscal status, and future fiscal projections
• Discuss potential negotiation terms for cash development incentive(s) to facilitate redevelopment of Pine Ridge Plaza (TID No. 4) in closed session

The Redevelopment Authority recommended approval of a development agreement with S.C. Swiderski LLC for a project involving duplexes and single-family homes in TID No. 8. The board also discussed redevelopment opportunities for Pine Ridge Plaza and authorized the City Administrator to negotiate potential incentive terms with the property owner.

• Approved August 4th meeting minutes
• Recommended approval of S.C. Swiderski LLC development agreement (TID No. 8)
• Approved closed session minutes from August 4th
• Authorized City Administrator to negotiate Pine Ridge Plaza incentives

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will hear presentations from two law firms for potential outside legal services and discuss 2021 borrowing and its fiscal impacts. It will also consider requests to dispose of two police squad cars and donate old computer equipment, and review policies related to the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Monthly reports will be filed.

• Presentations from two legal firms for outside legal services
• Discussion of 2021 borrowing and projected fiscal impacts
• Disposal of two squad cars (2017 and 2015 Ford Explorer) requested by Police Chief Bennett
• Donation of out-of-service Police Department computer equipment to ARES RACES group
• Review of City policies related to Families First Coronavirus Response Act

The committee approved the disposal of two police squad cars via auction and the donation of out-of-service computer equipment to the ARES RACES group. Members also reviewed presentations from two law firms regarding potential outside legal services and discussed the city's 2021 borrowing plan. No formal action was taken on legal services, borrowing, or COVID-19 leave policies.

• Approved vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved disposal of two police squad cars via auction (unanimous)
• Approved donation of police computer equipment to ARES RACES (unanimous)
• Placed monthly departmental reports on file (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear a presentation on the 2020 City Audit and discuss Police Department structural needs, including a possible return to a former command structure, staffing levels, and adding a permanent narcotics detective in 2022. The committee may also hold a closed session on crime prevention strategies.

• Presentation of 2020 City Audit by Jon Trautman of CliffordLarsonAllen, LLC
• Discussion of Police Department command structure and staffing levels
• Request to add a permanent narcotics detective in 2022
• Possible closed session on crime detection and prevention strategies

The Committee of the Whole met on August 25, 2021. Jon Trautman of Clifford Larson Allen, LLC presented and discussed the 2020 City Audit reports, and Police Chief Bennett presented the reasoning behind a request to return the Police Department to its former command structure and staffing levels and to add a permanent narcotics detective in 2022. The committee voted 6-0 to convene in closed session under Wisconsin State Statutes 19.85(1)(d) to discuss crime detection and prevention strategies. According to the video on the City of Merrill website, the committee did not return to open session, so no decisions on the audit or police staffing request are recorded in these minutes.

• Convened in closed session on crime detection and prevention strategies (6-0 roll call)
• No vote recorded on the 2020 City Audit reports — presentation and discussion only
• No vote recorded on the Police Department command structure, staffing, or 2022 narcotics detective request — presentation only

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will meet to discuss COVID-19 reports, nuisance complaints, and vouchers. The committee will also review monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and the Lincoln County Humane Society.

• COVID-19 Reports
• Nuisance Complaints and Vouchers
• Monthly Report - Fire Chief Klug
• Monthly Report - Police Chief Bennett
• Monthly Report - Lincoln County Humane Society

The committee approved the voucher report and the minutes from the July 26, 2021, meeting. Members also reviewed monthly reports from the Fire Chief, Police Chief, and the Lincoln County Humane Society, which were placed on file.

• Approved voucher report
• Approved July 26, 2021 meeting minutes
• Placed monthly reports on file

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider lifting the hiring freeze to replace a part-time driver in the Transit Department. The committee may also enter closed session to negotiate with the International Association of Firefighters Local 847.

• Consider lifting hiring freeze for part-time Transit Department driver
• Possible closed session for negotiations with International Association of Firefighters Local 847

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved lifting the hiring freeze to replace a part-time driver in the Transit Department. The committee also convened in a closed session under Wisconsin State Statutes to negotiate with the International Association of Firefighters Local 847 before adjourning.

• Approved lifting the hiring freeze to replace a part-time Transit Department driver
• Convened in closed session to negotiate with International Association of Firefighters Local 847 (3-0)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will review updates from its July 22 meeting and hear a presentation from Park City Credit Union. Members will also discuss strategies to increase public awareness of the committee's efforts.

• Review updates from July 22, 2021 meeting
• Presentation by Melissa Wrycha (Park City Credit Union)
• Discussion on raising community awareness of committee efforts

The Marketing & Communications Committee met on August 19, 2021 and discussed an updated "Marketing, Branding & Communication Initiative" document presented by Melissa Wrycha of Park City Credit Union. As a result of discussion, the committee made wording updates to the vision statement, mission statement, and two values (Partnership and Diversity and Inclusion), and suggested additional reasons someone would want to move to Merrill. Members also suggested methods for raising community awareness of the committee's efforts, including Facebook Live events, timely social media updates, a "Marketing" employee, the city website, and presentations to civic organizations. No formal motions other than adjournment were recorded; the next meeting was set for Thursday, September 16, 2021 at 5:15 P.M.

• Updated vision statement wording (no vote recorded)
• Updated mission statement wording (no vote recorded)
• Updated Partnership value wording (no vote recorded)
• Updated Diversity and Inclusion value wording (no vote recorded)
• Suggested additional reasons to move to Merrill: Exceptional Library, Athletic Facilities, Scholarship Opportunities, River Bend Trail, Multiple Recreational Opportunities (no vote recorded)
• Suggested awareness methods: Facebook Live events, timely social media updates, a "Marketing" employee, city website, presentations to civic organizations/clubs (no vote recorded)
• Set next meeting: Thursday, September 16, 2021, 5:15 P.M., City Hall Common Council Chambers
• Motion (Weix/Blake) to adjourn — carried; adjourned at 6:21 P.M.

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is meeting to handle routine consent items and discuss operations, including traffic and tornado response during the fair, a promotion recap, and the 2022 quilt show. The committee will also discuss communication with the fair board, including that MEC staff will not be responsible for building access during the fair and that the center will not be open next year during the fair.

• Approval of June meeting minutes and June-July vouchers
• Discussion of traffic and tornado response during the fair
• August promotion recap
• Start of first Self-Directed Volunteer Team for 2022 quilt show
• MEC will not be open next year during fair; staff to work remote or take time off

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee met to discuss operations, ADRC updates, and fair coordination. The committee approved the June minutes and the June-July vouchers. No other formal votes or final policy changes were recorded.

• Approved June minutes (Motion by Bebel, second by Harvey)
• Approved June-July vouchers (Motion by Akey, second by Bebel)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission meets to approve minutes and vouchers, receive updates on the Runway 16/34 project, discuss a veteran flight program, and review maintenance items. No formal decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Runway 16/34 Project Status update
• Dream Flight For Veterans discussion
• Airport General Maintenance: Lighting Outside and Signage

The Merrill Airport Commission approved the July 21, 2021 meeting minutes and reviewed and approved vouchers for payment. Commissioners and staff also discussed the Runway 16/34 project status, entitlement projects for 2021, and general maintenance items.

• Approved July 21, 2021 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Approved payment of vouchers (all ayes)
• Adjourned the meeting (all ayes)

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes and financial reports, discuss library policies, and receive updates on operations and strategic planning. No major decisions are scheduled, but policy reviews and committee reports will be presented.

• Approval of July 21, 2021 meeting minutes
• Review of July monthly revenue and expense report
• Policy review: Solicitation on Library Premises
• Policy review: Use of the Entire Library Collection by Minors
• Strategic Plan Progress Goal #1 discussion

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved a proposal to increase maintenance pay and combine two part-time positions into a three-quarters position. The board also approved revised policies regarding solicitation and the use of the library collection by minors, and accepted the July revenue and expense report and minutes.

• Approved minutes of the regular meeting of July 21, 2021
• Accepted monthly Revenue and Expense Report for July
• Approved proposal to increase maintenance pay rate and combine two part-time roles into a three-quarters position
• Approved revised policy on Solicitation on Library Premises
• Approved revised policy on Use of the Entire Library Collection by Minors

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Merrill Personnel and Finance Committee will hold a special meeting to discuss lifting a hiring freeze for a vacant utility position. The meeting includes a public comment period and a closed session for labor negotiations with the International Association of Firefighters Local 847.

• Lift hiring freeze to replace vacant utility position
• Closed session for labor negotiations with International Association of Firefighters Local 847

The Personnel and Finance Committee met to discuss labor negotiations with the International Association of Firefighters Local 847. The committee moved into a closed session at 5:05 p.m. and adjourned the meeting at 6:04 p.m.

• Moved to closed session for union negotiations (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding a meeting on August 16, 2021, at Merrill City Hall. The agenda consists of procedural items, approval of July 2021 minutes, and reports from the Transit Administrator regarding COVID-19, employee status, the upcoming school year, Community Night Out, and Barley Fest. The commission will also discuss a celebration for 100 years of motor buses.

• Approve the minutes of the July, 2021 meeting
• Administrator’s Report on COVID-19, Employee Status, upcoming school year, Community Night Out, and Barley Fest
• Discussion regarding 100 years of motor buses Celebration

The Commission held a meeting to review administrative updates and approve past minutes. Members discussed transit operations, including COVID-19 protocols, staffing, and upcoming community event services.

• Approved July 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet to discuss and vote on multiple financial and administrative items, including the sale of $1.68 million in general obligation bonds, a $175,000 budget amendment for East Tenth Street utility work, and several grant requests funded by the American Rescue Plan Act. The meeting will also consider liquor license applications, ordinance amendments, and the disposal of Fire Engine #61.

• $1.68M General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds sale
• $175K budget amendment for East Tenth Street (N. Mill St. to N. Spruce St.) utility infrastructure
• Approval of $111,280 contract with KLM Engineering Inc. for Taylor Street Water Tower pipe replacement
• Consideration of $595K General Obligation Bonds for Street Improvement Projects
• Disposal of Fire Engine #61 via Wisconsin Surplus Auction

The Common Council approved a 2021 borrowing package, including initial resolutions for up to $1,680,000 in general obligation bonds and about $980,000 in promissory notes, and approved a $111,280 quote to replace two pipes on the Taylor Street Water Tower (amended to remove the specified funding source). It also approved a $159,277.35 fiber Phase 3 low bid and a $175,000 TID No. 7 budget amendment for East Tenth Street utility work. Several American Rescue Plan Act grant requests were approved by split votes, while a $6,004.67 request for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church failed 3-5 and a liquor license for Boxkar failed after a 4-4 tie broken by the Mayor's no vote.

• Approved $111,280 quote from KLM Engineering Inc. to replace two pipes on the Taylor Street Water Tower, as amended to delete the specified funding source
• Approved low bid of $159,277.35 from Underground Systems for Fiber Phase 3
• Approved $13,151 ARPA grant to Merrill Baseball Association for the Merrill Bluejay Baseball Tournament (7-1)
• Approved $1,000 and $9,000 ARPA grants to Fraternal Order of Eagles, Merrill Aerie #584 (7-1)
• Approved $2,835 ARPA grant to Merrill Lions Club for the Labor Day Car Show (6-2)
• Approved $3,000 of the $8,500 ARPA request from Sawmill Brewing Company for Race to the Taps (6-2)
• Approved $6,004.67 ARPA grants each to Merrill Wrestling Club (5-2, one abstention) and Merrill Football Booster Club (4-3, one abstention)
• Failed: $6,004.67 ARPA grant to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church (3-5)

Fairgrounds Committee

The Festival Grounds Committee is holding its regular August meeting to discuss updates on the rodeo and fair, review the calendar of events, and hear monthly reports from the grounds manager and a permanent vendor representative. The agenda is routine, with no specific action items or dollar amounts listed.

• Rodeo update
• Fair update
• Calendar of events
• Monthly report from Festival Grounds Manager Bjorklund
• Monthly report from Permanent Vendor Rep. Caylor

The Festival Grounds Committee met on August 5, 2021 and received updates rather than making substantive decisions. The 2022 rodeo was announced for June 10-12, 2022, and the Rodeo Association is finalizing 2021 financial reports. Fair Association Rep. Becker reported tractor pull preparations are nearly complete and 15 vendors signed up for the Sell Building, while noting frustration that he and the Fair Board were not informed about certain acts booked for the fair. The only formal action was a motion to adjourn, which carried.

• No substantive decisions recorded; meeting was informational
• 2022 rodeo dates announced: June 10-12, 2022
• Motion to adjourn carried (Rick/Caylor)
• Next meeting set for September 2, 2021 at 6:00 P.M.

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee will meet to consider changes to repair guidelines, receive an update on the Legion building, and set the next meeting date. The agenda includes routine procedural items such as approving previous minutes and public comment.

• Consider changes to Historic Preservation Repair Guidelines
• Update on Legion building

The Historic Preservation Committee approved its July 7, 2021 minutes and reviewed amendments the City Plan Commission made to the Historic Preservation Ordinance on August 3, 2021 after a public hearing. The amended ordinance, which drops the property-owner consent requirement for historic nominations and adds a $150 nomination fee with exemptions for owners nominating their own property and Common Council members, will go to the Common Council on August 10, 2021. The committee agreed to change "shall" to "may" in several places in the Historic Preservation Repair Guidelines to make them advisory, with Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator Pagel to bring revised language to the next meeting. No decision was made on designating the former American Legion building (Livingston Center) as historic; the City Attorney called that premature pending a new ordinance, and the City is awaiting a legal opinion on ownership.

• Approved July 7, 2021 minutes (Sabatke/Lebal), carried
• Reviewed Plan Commission amendments to Historic Preservation Ordinance: owner consent no longer required for nominations; $150 nomination fee, with exemptions for owners nominating their own property and Common Council members
• Amended ordinance forwarded to Common Council for August 10, 2021 meeting
• Agreed to change "shall" to "may" in several places in Historic Preservation Repair Guidelines to make them advisory; revised document to return at next meeting
• Granted floor privileges to Mark Bares and Jon Malm, without objection
• No action on designating former American Legion building (Livingston Center) as historic; City Attorney said it would be premature before a new ordinance is adopted
• Set next meeting: Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at 6:00 P.M., City Hall Common Council Chambers
• Adjourned at 6:18 P.M. (Sabatke/McCrank), carried

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet on August 4, 2021, at 4:15 p.m. in Merrill City Hall to review routine items like approving minutes and claims, but the meeting will focus on continued discussions about the Sumnicht property near the City Forest, potential capital projects, and a new park along West Highway 64. The commission will also review a request for a small memorial pergola near Cooper St.

• Continued discussion on Sumnicht property by the City Forest
• Begin discussion on Capital Projects and Capital Equipment
• Continued discussion on park along West Highway 64
• Review request for small memorial pergola from Malm family on River Bend Trail near Cooper St.
• Approve minutes from previous meeting and claims

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission approved July meeting minutes, claims, and the plans and location for the Malm Pergola. The Commission also discussed acquiring the Sumnicht property for the 2022 Capital Requests, reviewed the 2022 Capital Projects and Equipment list, and talked about naming the new park along West Highway 64.

• Approved July meeting minutes
• Approved claims
• Approved plans and location for the Malm Pergola

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority is meeting to review tax increment district (TID) finances, including equalized valuations and historical revenue/expense trends, and to consider a budget amendment for infrastructure improvements on E. 10th St. They will also discuss new home development on former HAVEN lots and may enter closed session to negotiate residential development incentives and a potential delinquent tax parcel purchase.

• Review of 1/1/2021 equalized valuations for Merrill TIDs
• Update on new home development on E. 10th St. (TID No. 7) – former HAVEN lots
• Consider 2021 TID No. 7 budget amendment for utility and street infrastructure on E. 10th St. (between Mill St. and Spruce St.)
• Closed session: review of RFP responses for residential development on Webster St. (between Alexander St. and Eugene St.) and negotiation terms for incentives (TID No. 8)
• Closed session: potential negotiation for purchase of delinquent tax parcel on S. Center Ave. (TID No. 9)

The Redevelopment Authority recommended a budget amendment for utility and street infrastructure on E. 10th St. In closed session, the board decided to continue development agreement discussions with S.C. Swiderski LLC for residential projects on Webster St.

• Recommended $175,000 TID No. 7 budget request for E. 10th St. infrastructure (Carried)
• Approved June 29th meeting minutes by consensus
• Approved motion to enter closed session (6-0)
• Approved continuing development agreement discussions with S.C. Swiderski LLC for rental duplexes and single-family homes (Motion carried)

City Plan Commission

The City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on an amendment to the Historic Preservation Ordinance (Sec. 105-314 to Sec. 105-322) and receive an oral report from the Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator on Certified Survey Maps. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes, public comment, and scheduling the next meeting.

• Public hearing on amendment to Historic Preservation Ordinance (Sec. 105-314 to Sec. 105-322)
• Oral report from Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator Pagel on Certified Survey Maps
• Approval of minutes from July 12, 2021
• Public comment period

The City Plan Commission held a public hearing and voted to recommend an amended Historic Preservation Ordinance to the Common Council. The amendment makes the Historic Preservation Committee advisory rather than regulatory, except for demolitions, and allows anyone to nominate potential historic structures. It also sets a $150 nomination fee, with exemptions for property owners nominating their own property and Common Council members. The commission also approved the July 12, 2021 minutes as amended and heard a report on one approved Certified Survey Map on Francis Drive for the Merrill Area Housing Authority.

• Approved July 12, 2021 minutes as amended (name typo corrected)
• Recommended approval of amended Historic Preservation Ordinance and sent it to Common Council
• Amended ordinance to allow anyone to nominate potential historic structures
• Amended ordinance to set $150 fee for historic structure nominations, exempting property owners nominating their own property and Common Council members
• Heard report that one Certified Survey Map was approved on Francis Drive for the Merrill Area Housing Authority

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will discuss water and sewer projects, including repairs and a sewer lining study, as well as bids for Fiber Phase 3. They will also consider a $10,000 request from the Merrill Historical Society regarding the Livingston Center and review appeals for lawn mowing charges at two properties.

• Discussion on Water Tower Repair/Funding
• Consider Fiber Phase 3 Bids (due July 27)
• Request from Merrill Historical Society for $10,000 to release reversionary clause on Livingston Center
• Appeal of lawn mowing charges at 101 N. Polk Street and 308 Cooper Street
• Discussion on vacating W. Riverside Ave. alley (301-311 W. Riverside Ave.)

The Board of Public Works approved a $111,280 quote for water tower repairs and a $159,277.35 bid for Fiber Phase 3, both of which were sent to the Council. The board also granted partial fee reductions for lawn mowing charges at two properties.

• Approved $111,280 quote from KLM Engineering Inc. for Taylor Street Water Tower repairs (sent to Council)
• Approved $159,277.35 bid from Underground Systems for Fiber Phase 3 (sent to Council)
• Approved 50% reduction of June and July lawn mowing fees for 101 N. Polk Street
• Approved 50% reduction of June and July lawn mowing fees for 308 Cooper Street
• Referred action regarding the former American Legion Building to legal counsel
• Approved Water & Sewer vouchers
• Approved Board of Public Works vouchers
• Placed monthly reports on file

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will review the 2020 tax settlement, mid-year status of 2021 city budgets, and preliminary 2022 budget development. They will consider 2022 budget requests to Lincoln County for the T.B. Scott Free Library and Merrill Ambulance/EMS, review the 2021 borrowing plan, and discuss complaint forms for non-union departments. The committee will also consider a request from Merrill Firefighters Local 847 to be the sole negotiator for their contract, and an initial budget proposal ordinance amendment from Mayor Woellner. A closed session is scheduled for union negotiations and legal advice.

• Review of 2020 Tax Settlement Overview
• Mid-Year fiscal status review of 2021 City budgets
• Consider 2022 budget requests to Lincoln County for T.B. Scott Free Library and Merrill Ambulance/EMS
• Review of 2021 borrowing plan with Finance Director proposed revisions
• Consider request from Merrill Firefighters Local 847 for committee-only contract negotiations

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved the 2022 budget requests for the T.B. Scott Free Library and the Merrill Ambulance/EMS department to be forwarded to Lincoln County. The committee also approved a new structure for upcoming Firefighters Local 847 contract negotiations, consisting of the committee members and legal counsel. Additionally, the committee approved revisions to the 2021 borrowing plan and placed various monthly departmental reports on file.

• Approved 2022 T.B. Scott Free Library budget
• Approved 2022 Merrill Ambulance/EMS budget
• Approved revisions to 2021 borrowing plan
• Set Firefighters Local 847 negotiation team to committee and legal counsel
• Placed monthly departmental reports on file
• Approved payment of vouchers

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will review COVID-19 reports, nuisance complaints, and liquor license applications for Bubba's Pub, Boxkar Rentals, and Trinity Lutheran Church. They will also consider an ordinance amendment to prohibit late-night liquor sales between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m.

• Liquor license applications for Bubba's Pub (405 Grand Avenue) and Boxkar Rentals (701 East Second Street)
• Temporary picnic license for Trinity Lutheran Church (107 N. State Street) for August 29 block party
• Ordinance amendment to ban Class A liquor sales from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug and Police Chief Bennett
• Public comment period at meeting adjournment

The Health and Safety Committee approved liquor license applications for Bubba's Pub and Trinity Lutheran Church. It also approved an ordinance amendment to prohibit Class A licensees from selling intoxicating liquor between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

• Approved liquor licenses for Bubba's Pub, LLC (Approved & Sent to Council)
• Referred Boxkar Rentals, LLC liquor license to Council with no recommendation
• Approved temporary picnic license for Trinity Lutheran Church (Approved & Sent to Council)
• Approved ordinance prohibiting Class A liquor sales from 9:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. (Approved & Sent to Council)
• Approved vouchers
• Approved June 28, 2021 meeting minutes

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee is meeting to discuss establishing a clear brand identity for the City of Merrill. A presentation will be given by Scott Steele, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Church Mutual Insurance Company. The meeting also includes a public comment period and scheduling the next meeting.

• Presentation on establishing a clear brand identity for the City of Merrill
• Presentation by Scott Steele, VP and CMO of Church Mutual Insurance Company

The Marketing & Communications Committee met on July 22, 2021 and received a "Marketing, Branding & Communications" presentation from Scott Steele, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Church Mutual Insurance Company. The minutes record that three objective options were presented — talent, business and tourism — and that after discussion there "seemed to be consensus" that the primary objective should be a focus on talent. No formal motion, vote, or approval on a brand identity or marketing plan is recorded; the only recorded action was a motion to adjourn, which carried. The next meeting was set for Wednesday, August 19, 2021 at 5:15 P.M. in the City Hall Common Council Chambers.

• No formal decisions on branding, marketing objectives, or a marketing plan are recorded; the talent focus is noted only as apparent consensus from discussion
• Set next meeting for Wednesday, August 19, 2021 at 5:15 P.M. in City Hall Common Council Chambers
• Motion (Van Lieshout/Weix) to adjourn — carried; adjourned at 6:55 P.M.

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will meet to review the status of the Runway 16/34 project, discuss and decide on the 2021 Young Eagles Flight event, and consider an ARPA grant from the Bank of America. The commission will also receive updates on entitlement projects, the EAA Race, and general maintenance tasks like lighting and signage.

• Runway 16/34 Project Status update
• Decision on Young Eagles Flight 2021
• ARPA Grant from Bank of America (BOA)
• Airport Lighting Outside maintenance
• Airport Signage maintenance

The Merrill Airport Commission approved the minutes from their June 16, 2021 meeting and authorized the payment of vouchers. The commission also discussed ongoing projects, including the status of Runway 16/34, an ARPA grant application, and upcoming maintenance plans.

• Approved June 16, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved payment of vouchers (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Police and Fire Commission

The Merrill Police and Fire Commission will meet to discuss recent hiring and promotion processes within the Police Department. They may take action on these matters during the meeting.

The Merrill Police and Fire Commission voted 4-4 to allow Police Chief Bennett to promote Officer Pete Borchardt, following the retirement of Greg Hartwig. Chief Bennett also reported that three recent hires are on staff in various stages of field training, and the department will be fully staffed once they complete training. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 4:51 p.m.

• Approved allowing Chief Bennett to promote Officer Pete Borchardt (4-4 vote)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole meets to continue considering applications for the American Rescue Fund grant program and receive an update on trucks and the future of the garbage and recycling program.

• Continue consideration of recently received applications for American Rescue Fund (City of Merrill) grant program
• Update on trucks and future of garbage/recycling program

The Committee of the Whole spent its July 13, 2021 meeting on American Rescue Fund grant applications, voting down several requests and approving others. It awarded $2,833 to the Lion's Club for the Labor Day Car Show (9-0) and $3,000 to Race to the Taps (7-2), and later approved $6,000 each to Football, Wrestling and St. Francis (5-3-1). Requests from the Wrestling Booster program, the VFW Food Stand, the Merrill Football Boosters and the balance of the Lion's Club request were denied in separate votes. The meeting also received an update on trucks and the future of the garbage/recycling program, and adjourned at 6:47 PM.

• Denied $6,000 to Wrestling Booster program (2-6-1)
• Denied $9,000 to Wrestling Booster program (4-4-1)
• Denied full amount for Wrestling Club (3-5-1)
• Denied full $17,762 to Wrestling Club (4-4-1)
• Approved $2,833 to Lion's Club for Labor Day Car Show (9-0)
• Denied VFW Food Stand request of $9,823 (6-3)
• Denied balance of Lion's Club request $12,165 (9-0)
• Denied Merrill Football Boosters $15,450 for uniforms (6-3)

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting, discussing an update on the COVID-19 building closure and curbside pickup, the 2022 preliminary budget worksheet, and the mid-year endowment fund report. The board will also review the June financial reports and consider consent items.

• Update on COVID-19 building closure, curbside pickup, and reopening
• 2021 mid-year endowment fund report
• 2022 preliminary budget worksheet
• Monthly Revenue & Expense Report for June and Invoice List
• Strategic Plan Progress Goal #5

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved minutes from June 16, 2021, and accepted the June Revenue and Expense Report. It approved the 2021 mid-year endowment fund report and a 2022 preliminary budget that is identical to 2021 except for an increase in personnel. The board also discussed COVID-19 reopening hours, with a decision on hours deferred to the August meeting and any change to be provisional.

• Approved minutes of the June 16, 2021 regular meeting
• Accepted the monthly Revenue and Expense Report for June
• Approved the 2021 mid-year endowment fund report
• Approved the 2022 preliminary budget worksheet, identical to 2021 apart from a personnel increase
• Adjourned the meeting at 4:52 p.m.

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is meeting to approve June minutes, hear the administrator's quarterly report and COVID-19 update, and review policies including Title VI, the training manual, and drug and alcohol rules. They will also discuss plans for a 100 years of motor buses celebration, including tokens, brochures, banners, and a nickel tour.

• Quarterly report and COVID-19 update from Transit Administrator Brad Brummond
• Policy review of Title VI, Training Manual, and Drug and Alcohol
• Discussion of 100 years of motor buses celebration with tokens, brochures, banners, and nickel tour by Tom Burg
• Next meeting set for August 16, 2021

The Merrill Transit Commission approved its June 2020 minutes, the 2nd quarter report, the Title VI policy, and changes to its Drug and Alcohol and Training Manuals, all by unanimous votes. The commission also discussed a rebounding quarterly report, a COVID-19 update noting masks are still required on buses per federal law until September 13, 2021, and planning for the 100 Year of Motorbus Anniversary. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved June 2020 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2nd quarter report (unanimous)
• Approved Title VI policy (unanimous)
• Approved changes to Drug and Alcohol and Training Manuals (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will discuss an administrative reorganization, review applications for the American Rescue Fund grant program, and receive an update on garbage/recycling trucks. No final decisions are listed; items are for discussion and consideration.

• Update on potential administrative reorganization
• Review of American Rescue Fund grant applications
• Update on garbage/recycling trucks and program future

The Committee of the Whole reviewed American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant applications and voted to forward several to the Common Council. It approved $13,151 for the Merrill Bluejay Baseball Tournament and amended the Eagle's Club request down to $10,000, both by roll call votes. It voted 9-0 to deny the St. John Church request for $11,000 and rejected a move to eliminate all fair food stand requests. A motion to resume the meeting after the Common Council meeting failed 4-5, and the meeting adjourned at 6:04 pm.

• Approved $13,151 ARPA grant for Merrill Bluejay Baseball Tournament (6-3 roll call); forwarded to Common Council
• Amended Eagle's Club ARPA request from $16,000 to $10,000 (5-4 roll call)
• Approved amended $10,000 ARPA grant for Eagle's Club (5-4 roll call)
• Denied $11,000 ARPA request from St. John Church (9-0 roll call)
• Failed to eliminate all fair food stand ARPA requests (Lions, VFW, St. John's) (4-5 roll call)
• Failed to revise baseball grant to $9,500 (4-5 roll call)
• Failed motion to resume meeting after Common Council meeting (4-5 roll call)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet on July 13, 2021, to discuss and vote on several key items, including a $200,000 loan for The Lofts at City Hall apartments, liquor license applications, and zoning changes. The council will also consider relocating veteran-related plaques and approve employee recognitions.

• $200,000 Economic Development loan for The Lofts at City Hall, 713 East Second Street, 20-year term at 2% interest
• Three liquor license applications: Dave's County Market (300 East First Street), Cobblestone Inn & Suites (3209 East Main Street), and Merrill Firefighters Charities (Ott's Park)
• Relocation of veteran-related plaques and pictures to the Northwoods Veteran's Center
• Consideration of zoning changes for parcels at Alexander/Eugene Streets and 100 N. Polk Street
• $12,417 proposal from Complete Control Inc. for APR valves at the Fire Station

The Common Council approved a $200,000 Economic Development loan for The Lofts at City Hall, 713 East Second Street, on a 7-0 roll call vote. It also approved a $12,417 purchase of APR valves for the Fire Station, $8,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds for a portable stage for the Merrill Community Theater, and a $200,000 TID No. 8 budget request for a Webster St. infrastructure extension. Two rezoning ordinances and several resolutions, including a development agreement with Nicolet Lumber Company, were approved.

• Approved $200,000 Economic Development loan for The Lofts at City Hall (7-0)
• Approved $12,417 purchase of APR valves for Fire Station (6-1)
• Approved $8,000 ARPA grant to Merrill Community Theater for portable stage (4-3)
• Approved $200,000 TID No. 8 budget request for Webster St. infrastructure extension
• Approved rezoning from Rural Development to R-4 for parcel between Alexander and Eugene Streets (7-0)
• Approved rezoning from Public to Business at 100 N. Polk Street (7-0)
• Approved development agreement with Nicolet Lumber Company for Phase 3 apartment project
• Approved resolution supporting Weinbrenner Shoe Company's WEDC grant application

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing at 6:00 PM to consider four land-use items: two rezoning requests, a conditional use permit for chickens at a nursing home, and a planned unit development for apartments. The meeting also includes a remote attendance option, approval of prior minutes, and a report from the Building Inspector on certified survey maps.

• Rezoning request (Rural Development to R-4 Residential) for parcel between Alexander Street and Eugene Street, north of Heldt Street
• Conditional Use Permit application from Pine Crest Nursing Home, 2100 East Sixth Street, to keep chickens
• Planned Unit Development application for apartment development west of Eugene Street
• Rezoning request (Public to Business) for 100 N. Polk Street by Christian Men's Discipleship Inc.

The City Plan Commission approved four items during public hearings, including two rezoning requests, a conditional use permit for chickens at a nursing home, and a planned unit development for apartments. All four recommendations were forwarded to the Common Council for final consideration.

• Approved May 4, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved rezoning parcel between Alexander and Eugene Streets to R-4 Residential
• Approved conditional use permit for chickens at 2100 East Sixth Street
• Approved planned unit development for apartments west of Eugene Street
• Approved rezoning 100 N. Polk Street to Business with stipulations

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to discuss potential land use and forestry regulations. The agenda includes evaluating a 70-acre land acquisition near the City Forest and the possible designation of space along West 64 as a park.

• Discuss designating area along West 64 as park or green space
• Discuss potential acquisition of 70 acres adjacent to City Forest
• Discussion on Forestry Ordinance changes and modifications
• Approve claims

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission approved designating the area along West 64 as a park. The commission also voted to explore the potential acquisition of 70 acres of land adjacent to the Merrill City Forest, and approved the May meeting minutes and claims from May and June.

• Approved May meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved claims from May and June (unanimous)
• Designated green space on West 64 as a park (unanimous)
• Voted to explore the potential purpose of 70 acres adjacent to City Forest (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:03 p.m. (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to consider changes to the Historic Preservation Ordinance and receive updates on the Scott Mansion Tower and Legion building. The agenda also includes approving minutes from the June 10, 2021 meeting and taking public comment.

• Consider changes to the Historic Preservation Ordinance
• Update on Scott Mansion Tower & Legion building

The committee approved a motion to refer a draft amendment to the Historic Preservation Ordinance to the City Plan Commission for a public hearing. The proposed amendment would make the committee primarily an advisory group, except regarding demolitions. No action was taken on the former Legion building.

• Approved June 10th, 2021 minutes (Carried)
• Referred Historic Preservation Ordinance amendment to City Plan Commission for public hearing (Carried)

Fairgrounds Committee

The Merrill Festival Grounds Committee meets to discuss festival grounds lighting, a rodeo update, a fair update, and the calendar of events. The committee will also receive monthly reports from Festival Grounds Manager Bjorklund and Permanent Vendor Representative Caylor.

• Lighting discussion
• Rodeo Update
• Fair Update
• Calendar of Events
• Monthly reports from Manager Bjorklund and Vendor Rep. Caylor

The Merrill Festival Grounds Committee met on July 1, 2021, to review updates on the rodeo, the fair, and festival grounds management. No formal votes or substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

• Adjourned the meeting at 6:34 P.M. (Caylor/Sabatke)

Joint Review Board

The Joint Review Board will review the project plan and development agreement for Rain Car Wash LLC. The board is scheduled to consider a resolution approving the creation of Tax Increment District No. 14. Additionally, the body will discuss the 2020 annual reports and fiscal analysis for existing Merrill Tax Increment Districts.

• Consideration of resolution approving Tax Incremental District No. 14 creation
• Review of development agreement with Rain Car Wash LLC
• Review of 2020 Annual PE-300 Reports for Merrill Tax Increment Districts
• Review of Ehlers & Associates TID Fiscal Analysis

The Joint Review Board approved the project plan for Tax Incremental District No. 14, following prior Redevelopment Authority and Common Council actions. The board also approved the May 25, 2021 meeting minutes and reviewed 2020 annual reports for the city's ten tax incremental districts. No public comment was offered, and the meeting adjourned at 5:42 P.M.

• Approved May 25, 2021 meeting minutes (Schwartzman/Lutgen) — carried
• Adopted Joint Review Board Resolution 2021-04 approving the TID No. 14 project plan (Schwartzman/Sample) — carried
• Adjourned at 5:42 P.M. (Lutgen/Sample) — carried

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will meet to approve minutes, hear public comment, and discuss residential incentive programs, tax-increment financing (TID) budgets, and annual reports. Key decisions include authorizing a grant application for Weinbrenner Shoe Company and a development agreement with Nicolet Lumber Company for apartment construction.

• Consider Residential Incentive Program Policy for privately-owned lots
• Authorize Idle Sites Grant submission to WEDC for Weinbrenner Shoe Company (TID No. 8)
• Authorize development agreement with Nicolet Lumber Company for TID8 - Nicolet Lumber Apartments
• Amend 2021 TID No. 8 budget for Webster St. utility and street infrastructure (Alexander St. to Eugene St.)
• Review 2020 PE-300 Annual Reports and TID fiscal status

The Redevelopment Authority recommended new residential incentive programs for both TID and non-TID areas to support community housing goals. The board also authorized a grant application for Weinbrenner Shoe Company's expansion and approved a development agreement with Nicolet Lumber Company. Additionally, the RDA recommended a $200,000 budget amendment for Webster Street infrastructure improvements.

• Approved May 25th meeting minutes
• Recommended TID New Residential Incentive Program
• Recommended non-TID residential incentive program
• Recommended resolution for Weinbrenner Shoe Company Idle Sites grant
• Recommended development agreement with Nicolet Lumber Company
• Recommended $200,000 budget amendment for Webster St. infrastructure

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will hear COVID-19 updates, review nuisance complaints, and consider three liquor license applications for Ott's Park and two local businesses. Monthly reports from the Fire Chief, Police Chief, and Lincoln County Humane Society will also be presented.

• Three liquor license applications: Merrill Firefighters Charities (temporary picnic licenses for Ott's Park, Aug 6–8), Hometown Grocers Inc. (Class A beer/liquor for Dave's County Market, 300 East First Street, effective July 30), Swami Bapa Hotels Inc. (Class B beer for Cobblestone Inn & Suites, 3209 East Main Street, effective July 14)
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and Lincoln County Humane Society

The Health and Safety Committee approved three alcohol license applications, all sent to the Common Council for its July 13, 2021 meeting: three temporary Class "B" picnic licenses for Merrill Firefighters Charities at Ott's Park, a Class "A" beer and Class "A" liquor license for Dave's County Market at 300 East First Street, and a Class "B" beer license for Cobblestone Inn & Suites at 3209 East Main Street. The committee also approved vouchers, approved the May 24, 2021 minutes, and placed monthly reports on file. No vote tallies were recorded; all motions passed. The next regular meeting is Monday, July 26, 2021 at 5:15 P.M.

• Approved vouchers (motion Weix/Blake)
• Approved three temporary Class "B" picnic licenses for Merrill Firefighters Charities at Ott's Park, Aug 6-8, 2021; sent to Council
• Approved Class "A" beer and Class "A" liquor license for Dave's County Market, 300 East First Street, effective July 30, 2021; sent to Council
• Approved Class "B" beer license for Cobblestone Inn & Suites, 3209 East Main Street, effective July 14, 2021; sent to Council
• Approved minutes of May 24, 2021 meeting
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Set next regular meeting for Monday, July 26, 2021 at 5:15 P.M. in City Hall Common Council Chambers
• Adjourned at 5:46 P.M.

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will consider a request from the Merrill Historical Society to remove a reversionary clause on the Livingston Center property. The board will also review infrastructure requests, including a hard-surfacing extension, a bike route designation, and a $12,417 proposal for fire station valve installations.

• Request to extinguish reversionary clause on the Livingston Center
• Hard-surfacing extension request for 2213 East Main Street (Zelich Customs LLC)
• Consideration of a 'No Mow May' policy
• Prairie Trails to River Bend Connector Trail bike route designation
• Proposal from Complete Control Inc. for $12,417 for fire station APR valves

The Board approved a bike route designation for the Prairie Trails to River Bend Connector and granted a hard-surfacing extension to Zelich Customs LLC until the end of September. The Board referred a request from the Merrill Historical Society regarding the Livingston Center to the next meeting and forwarded a fire station valve proposal to the Common Council without a recommendation. Other items, including a potential 'No Mow May' policy, were discussed but resulted in no action.

• Approved voucher payments
• Referred Historical Society building request to next meeting
• Approved hard-surfacing extension for Zelich Customs LLC
• Approved Prairie Trails to River Bend Connector bike route
• Referred fire station valve proposal to Common Council
• Approved plan for vacant District 7 properties
• Placed monthly reports on file

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will review outstanding vouchers and consider designating a contact person for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The meeting also includes a review of monthly reports from city departments and a discussion on disposing of outdated bus parts.

• Consideration of disposal of outdated bus parts
• Designation of Contact Person/Authorized Representative for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
• Review of monthly reports from Municipal Court, Finance, City Attorney, City Clerk, City Administrator, and Fire Department

The City of Merrill Personnel and Finance Committee met on June 22, 2021 and approved three items: the vouchers, the disposal (sale) of outdated bus parts as determined by Transit Director Brummond, and the designations of City Clerk Heideman as Contact Person and Finance Director Unertl as Authorized Representative for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. Monthly reports were placed on file. The next regular meeting was set for Tuesday, July 27, 2021 at 5:15 P.M. in the City Hall Common Council Chambers. No public comment was offered and the meeting adjourned at 5:22 P.M.

• Approved vouchers (Osness/Blake)
• Approved disposal (sale) of outdated bus parts, as determined by Transit Director Brummond (Osness/Blake)
• Approved City Clerk Heideman as Contact Person and Finance Director Unertl as Authorized Representative for ARPA funding (Osness/Blake)
• Placed monthly reports on file (Blake/Osness)
• Set next regular meeting for Tuesday, July 27, 2021 at 5:15 P.M. in the City Hall Common Council Chambers
• Adjourned at 5:22 P.M. (Osness/Blake)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will convene on June 21, 2021, at City Hall to receive the administrator’s report, review policies, hear a COVID-19 update, and discuss preparations for a 100-year bus anniversary celebration. The meeting is open to the public and accessible.

• Approve April 19, 2021 meeting minutes
• Policy review
• COVID-19 update
• 100 years of motor buses celebration: tokens, brochures, banners, and Nickel tour by Tom Burg

The Transit Commission approved the minutes from the May 2020 meeting. The commission reviewed policies and received updates on bus auctions and COVID-19 mask requirements.

• Approved May 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is holding a regular meeting to approve May minutes and vouchers, and to discuss operations including attendance, fund status, instructor fees, and scheduling during the fair. They will also receive updates from the ADRC and discuss marketing and fall event promotion. The meeting is largely routine administrative business.

• Approval of May meeting minutes
• Approval of May vouchers
• Discussion of attendance numbers and status of funds
• Discussion of instructor fees and schedule during Fair
• Marketing committee update and Fall Event Promotion

The committee approved the May 2021 minutes and vouchers. Members decided against increasing participant activity fees and established a limited access plan for the center during the upcoming fair to increase awareness.

• Approved May 2021 minutes
• Approved May 2021 vouchers
• Decided against increasing activity fees to $4
• Decided to keep South entry locked on Wednesday of the fair and open all entry doors on Thursday

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will meet to discuss airport operations and projects, including the Runway 16/34 project status, flight training, and the fuel system credit card reader. The commission will also review updates on entitlement projects, the EAA race, and the F-84 display and mounting.

• Runway 16/34 Project Status
• Update Fuel System Credit Card Reader
• Discussion F-84 Display and Mounting
• Update Entitlement Projects 2021
• Update EAA Race

The Airport Commission approved May 2021 minutes and payment of vouchers, and agreed to let a local farmer use 18 acres of tillable land in exchange for maintaining weed spraying on airport gravel road bases and taxiways. The commission also stated it disagrees with a letter from Gary Wilson of the Chicago ADO saying Merrill Airport has not met design manual criteria for the Runway 16/34 project, and will seek other means to resolve the issue. Other items were updates or discussions only, including flight training, a new fuel card reader, an F-84 display, 2021 entitlement pavement coating, and maintenance.

• Approved May 2021 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Approved payment of vouchers (all ayes)
• Agreed to procure other means to resolve disagreement over Runway 16/34 design manual criteria
• Approved letting a local farmer use 18 acres of tillable land in exchange for weed spraying on airport gravel road bases/taxiways (all ayes)
• Adjourned (all ayes)

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees meets to discuss COVID-19 reopening updates, strategic plan progress, and budget development. The board also reviews monthly financial reports and hears from Friends and WVLS representatives.

• Review of May 2021 minutes and monthly revenue/expense report
• Update on COVID-19 building closure, curbside pickup, and reopening plans
• Discussion of Strategic Plan Progress Goal #4
• Review of Wisconsin Trustee Essential #8: Developing the Library Budget

The Board modified the library's mask policy to no longer require masks for vaccinated patrons. The Board also approved the May meeting minutes and the May Revenue and Expense Report.

• Modified mask policy to remove requirement for vaccinated patrons (Carried)
• Approved May 19, 2021 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Accepted May Revenue and Expense Report (Carried)

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to consider changes to the Historic Preservation Ordinance. The committee will also approve the minutes from the May 13 meeting and set the date for the next meeting.

• Consider changes to the Historic Preservation Ordinance
• Approval of May 13, 2021 Minutes
• Public comment
• Set date, time of next meeting

The Historic Preservation Committee discussed a recommendation from the City Attorney to repeal the Historic Preservation Ordinance and considered shifting the committee toward an advisory role while maintaining regulation on demolitions. No formal vote was taken on the ordinance, though the committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting and scheduled their next meeting for July 7, 2021.

• Approved May 13th, 2021 meeting minutes with additions
• Scheduled next meeting for July 7th, 2021 at 5:30 P.M.
• Adjourned at 6:02 P.M.

Community Development Committee

The Merrill Community Development Committee will meet to discuss an economic development loan and grant request, identified as File#21001. The committee may enter a closed session to review personal financial data related to this request before potentially taking action in open session. Additionally, the committee will discuss a New Home Construction Incentive Program proposed by Mayor Woellner.

• Action on File#21001 Economic Development loan and grant request
• Discussion of New Home Construction Incentive Program

The Merrill Community Development Committee approved a $200,000 loan for The Lofts at City Hall and denied a separate $50,000 grant request from the same applicant. The committee also held a closed session regarding an economic development loan application and received information on a new home construction incentive program.

• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Convened in closed session for Economic Development loan application File#21001 (5-0 vote)
• Approved a loan up to $200,000 to The Lofts at City Hall (20 years at 2% interest, 1-year deferred payment, 2nd mortgage and Personal Guaranty)
• Denied $50,000 grant request from The Lofts at City Hall
• Adjourned meeting at 8:25 a.m.

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will review a water rate study and consider rate changes, and will also distribute new applications for American Rescue Plan grant funds. No formal decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Presentation on Water Rate Study and potential rate structuring alternatives
• Distribution of additional American Rescue Fund (City of Merrill) grant program applications

The Committee of the Whole voted to recommend water rate Alternative #3 — a hybrid that combines the first two rate blocks but keeps a lower rate for high-usage customers — and referred it to the Public Service Commission. It approved $8,000 in American Rescue Plan Act grant funds for the Merrill Community Theater to buy a portable stage, on a 5-4 roll call vote. It denied a $15,000 request from the Haunted Sawmill 8-1, and decided more information was needed before acting on the Sawmill Brewing Company (Race to the Taps) application.

• Recommended water rate Alternative #3 (hybrid rate blocks) and referred it to the Public Service Commission
• Approved $8,000 ARPA grant to Merrill Community Theater for a portable stage (5-4)
• Amendment to make the stage City property failed for lack of a second
• Denied $15,000 request from the Haunted Sawmill (8-1)
• Directed City Administrator Johnson to obtain more information on the Sawmill Brewing Company (Race to the Taps) application before a decision
• Adjourned at 6:58 P.M.

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will consider creating Tax Incremental District No. 14 and authorizing a development agreement with Rain Auto Wash LLC. The body will also decide on designating $70,000 in American Rescue Plan funds for local event grants and approving liquor licenses for the Lincoln County Free Fair. Additionally, the council will vote on ordinances to create a Marketing and Communications Committee and merge the Water and Sewage Disposal Committee into the Board of Public Works.

• Resolution to create Tax Incremental District No. 14 and approve its project plan
• Resolution authorizing a Development Agreement with Rain Auto Wash LLC
• Recommendation to designate $70,000 of ARP funds for local event grants
• Recommendation to approve $15,000 ARP grant for Merrill Youth Softball Association
• Ordinance to merge Water and Sewage Disposal Committee into Board of Public Works

The Common Council voted 6-2 to table a proposed COVID-19 vaccination lottery incentive, with Aldermen Blake and Weix voting no. The council approved creating Tax Incremental District No. 14 as a blighted area district effective January 1, 2021, and authorized a development agreement with Rain Auto Wash LLC that includes an incentive payment not to exceed $130,000 for a car wash and showroom at 2806-2808 East Main Street. It also approved $70,000 in American Rescue Plan funds for a local events grant program and a $15,000 ARP grant to the Merrill Youth Softball Association. Other actions included approving temporary picnic licenses for the Lincoln County Free Fair and a Merrill Fastpitch tournament, the 2021-2022 liquor license list, an in-house cross connection inspection program, and an ordinance creating a Marketing and Communications Committee with three voting alderpersons.

• Tabled COVID-19 vaccination lottery incentive (6-2; Blake and Weix voted no)
• Approved creating Tax Incremental District No. 14, a blighted area district effective January 1, 2021
• Approved development agreement with Rain Auto Wash LLC with incentive payment not to exceed $130,000
• Approved $70,000 of ARP funds for local events/programs grant program
• Approved $15,000 ARP grant to Merrill Youth Softball Association
• Approved five temporary Class 'B' picnic licenses for Lincoln County Fair Association, August 11-15, 2021
• Approved 2021-2022 liquor license applications
• Approved three temporary Class 'B' picnic licenses for Merrill Fastpitch and Merrill Youth Softball Association at MARC, July 23-25, 2021

Board of Review

The City of Merrill Board of Review is meeting to receive the assessment roll from the assessor and conduct hearings on property assessment appeals. The board will also verify training requirements and acknowledge policies for waiver and testimony requests. This is a regular meeting focused on the assessment review process.

• Receipt of the Assessment Roll from the Assessor
• Board of Review Hearings for property assessment appeals
• Acknowledge policy on waiver of hearing requests
• Acknowledge policy on sworn telephone and written testimony requests

The City of Merrill Board of Review met on June 3, 2021 and acted on two property assessment objections. For Arc Cafehld001 LLC (901 North Center Avenue, Pizza Hut), the board denied its request to testify by telephone; no one appeared for the owner, so no hearing was held and the assessment stayed at $231,700. For Wal-Mart Real Estate Business Trust (505 South Pine Ridge Avenue), the board denied a waiver of hearing, held a hearing, and voted 4-0 to retain the assessment at $9,956,700. The board also elected Alderman Van Lieshout as vice-chair and adjourned at 6:00 P.M.

• Elected Alderman Van Lieshout as Board of Review vice-chair (voice vote)
• Denied Arc Cafehld001 LLC's request to testify by telephone (motion carried)
• No hearing held on Arc Cafehld001 LLC's objection; assessment at 901 North Center Avenue remains $231,700
• Denied Wal-Mart's request for waiver of Board of Review hearing (4-0 roll call)
• Opened hearing on Wal-Mart's objection (motion carried)
• Retained Wal-Mart assessment at 505 South Pine Ridge Avenue at $9,956,700 (4-0 roll call)
• Adjourned sine die at 6:00 P.M. (motion carried)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Merrill Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to conduct a public hearing regarding a requested variance for lot coverage and setbacks at 105 Logan Street. The board will also review minutes from the May 13, 2021, meeting.

• Public hearing for variance request at 105 Logan Street (pin# 251-3106-114-0109)
• Approval of minutes from May 13, 2021

The Zoning Board of Appeals denied a variance request for a property owner who installed a storage shed, swimming pool, and deck without permits. The board ordered the removal of the sheds and pool deck within 30 days to bring the property into compliance.

• Approved May 13, 2021 minutes
• Denied variance for unpermitted structures; ordered removal of sheds and pool deck within 30 days (carried with one dissenting vote)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss American Rescue Plan grant applications, potential hazard pay for pandemic workers, and COVID-19 incentive programs. The committee will also review future street construction projects.

• Consider American Rescue Plan (ARP) grant fund applications and funding amount
• Discuss potential hazard pay for employees who worked through the pandemic
• Discuss future street projects including Grand Avenue, East Tenth Street, and N. State Street
• Discuss potential COVID-19 incentive programs

The Committee of the Whole designated $70,000 of American Rescue Plan (ARP) federal grant funds to create a grant program for local organizations holding events or programs. It approved a $15,000 request from the Merrill Youth Softball Association, but decided more information was needed before acting on the Merrill Community Theater request. A proposal for COVID-19 vaccination incentives was tabled 5-3, and no action was taken on potential hazard pay for employees who worked through the pandemic. The committee also referred the East Tenth Street and Grand Avenue projects to the 2022 budget process.

• Designated $70,000 of ARP federal grant funds for a grant program for local event/program organizations (motion carried)
• Approved $15,000 ARP grant request from Merrill Youth Softball Association (motion carried)
• Decided more information needed before deciding on Merrill Community Theater ARP request
• No action taken on potential hazard pay for employees who worked through the pandemic
• Referred East Tenth Street (Center Avenue to Lake Street) and Grand Avenue projects to 2022 budget process (motion carried)
• River Street project referral motion deemed unnecessary; all prospective projects to be considered in 2022 budget process
• Tabled COVID-19 vaccination incentive proposal 5-3 (No: Hass, Blake, Woellner; Absent: Russell)
• Adjourned at 6:14 P.M. (motion carried)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will review vouchers, consider implementing an in-house cross connection inspection program, and discuss funding for a potential Marketing & Communications Committee and new City Marketing position. Monthly reports from city departments will also be filed.

• Consider in-house cross connection inspections (referred from Water and Sewage Disposal Committee)
• Review city directory and website committee/board information
• Seek bids for outside legal services
• Explore funding for Marketing & Communications Committee and new City Marketing position

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved a recommendation to implement an in-house utility employee program for cross connection inspections. The committee also approved vouchers and placed monthly reports on file.

• Approved in-house option for cross connection inspections and sent to Council
• Approved vouchers
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Approved motion to convene in closed session (3-0)

Joint Review Board

The Joint Review Board is meeting to review the project plan for the creation of Tax Incremental District (TID) 14. The board will also consider a development agreement for a Rain Auto Wash, LLC project and handle administrative tasks including member appointments and officer elections.

• Review of TID 14 Draft Project Plan
• Review of TID 14 Rain Car Wash Development Agreement
• Appointment of public member Ryan Schwartzman
• Election of Chairperson

The board reviewed the creation of Tax Incremental District (TID) No. 14 and a related development agreement for the Rain Auto Wash. The board reconfirmed its public member and chairperson and approved previous meeting minutes.

• Reconfirmed Ryan Schwartzman as Public Member (Carried)
• Reconfirmed Mayor Derek Woellner as Chairperson (Carried)
• Approved February 23, 2021 meeting minutes (Carried)

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will consider approving a project plan and boundaries for Tax Incremental District No. 14 during a public hearing. The agenda also includes discussions on the assignment of a TID No. 3 development incentive payment for the Cobblestone Hotel, updates on TID No. 7 and TID No. 8 developments, and a potential housing study for the 2022 budget.

• Public Hearing regarding proposed project plan, boundaries and creation of Tax Incremental District No. 14
• Consider Resolution Designating Boundaries & Approving a Project Plan for Tax Incremental District No. 14
• Consider assignment of TID No. 3 Development Incentive Payment from Black Bears Merrill Inn LLC to Swami Bapa Inc. for Cobblestone Hotel
• Update on sale of HAVEN lots for residential development & E. 10th St right-of-way & utility planning in TID No. 7
• Status updates on TID No. 11 Single-Family Home Developments & TID No. 8 Development Agreement with Nicolet Lumber

The Redevelopment Authority held a public hearing on the proposed project plan and boundaries for Tax Incremental District No. 14, with no public comments, and voted to recommend the resolution creating the district. It also authorized assigning a $30,000 TID No. 3 development incentive payment from Black Bears Merrill Inn LLC to Swami Bapa, Inc. for the Cobblestone Hotel. Commissioners reached consensus on offering land and TID-funded utility and street infrastructure for future single-family and duplex development, and on a 5% cash incentive up to $10,000 for qualifying private lots. The June 2 meeting was cancelled; the next meeting is June 29.

• Approved May 5 meeting minutes, with a correction to be verified by staff (carried)
• Opened and closed public hearing on TID No. 14 plan and boundaries; no public comments (carried)
• Recommended resolution creating TID No. 14 (carried)
• Authorized assignment of $30,000 TID No. 3 development incentive payment from Black Bears Merrill Inn LLC to Swami Bapa, Inc. (carried)
• Consensus to offer land and TID-funded utility and street infrastructure for future single-family and duplex development (no vote recorded)
• Consensus to offer 5% of preliminary assessed valuation up to $10,000 as a TID cash development incentive on qualifying private lots (no vote recorded)
• Consensus to cancel the June 2 RDA meeting (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned at 7:15 p.m. (carried)

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will meet to discuss nuisance complaints, review temporary picnic and liquor licenses for the Lincoln County Free Fair, and consider ATV/UTV speed limits. Monthly reports from the Fire Chief, Police Chief, and Lincoln County Humane Society will also be filed.

• Five temporary Class 'B' picnic licenses for the Lincoln County Free Fair (August 11–15, 2021) at Alumni Tent, VFW stand, and Eagle's stand
• 2021–2022 liquor license applications (per list)
• Discussion on ATV/UTV speed limits
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug and Police Chief Bennett
• Monthly report from Lincoln County Humane Society (none submitted yet) to be placed on file

The Health and Safety Committee approved several liquor license applications and temporary picnic licenses for the Lincoln County Free Fair. The committee also approved vouchers and the previous meeting's minutes. No action was taken regarding a request to increase ATV/UTV speed limits.

• Approved temporary Class 'B' picnic licenses for Lincoln County Free Fair (Approved & Sent to Council)
• Approved 2021-2022 Liquor License Applications (Approved & Sent to Council)
• Approved vouchers (Approved)
• Approved April 26, 2021 meeting minutes (Approved)
• Placed monthly reports on file (Placed on File)
• Increasing ATV/UTV speed limits (No action taken)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee meets to discuss ongoing operations under COVID-19 guidelines, welcome new members, and review updates on marketing, a recent craft show, and upcoming fall events.

• Welcome new committee members Sharon Anderson and Josh Jaeger (terms ending 5-1-22)
• Approval of April meeting minutes and vouchers
• COVID-19 operations update regarding CDC and City of Merrill guidelines
• Updates from the ADRC and Marketing committee
• Recap of the May 1st Craft Show and discussion of an upcoming Fall Event

The committee appointed Laura Bertagnoli as Chair and approved the April minutes and vouchers. Members discussed updating COVID-19 masking guidance to align with the Mayor's directives for vaccinated individuals. The committee also reviewed a craft show that generated $1,500 in revenue.

• Appointed Laura Bertagnoli as Chair of the MEC Committee (Approved by all)
• Approved April minutes (Motion carried)
• Approved April 2021 vouchers (Motion carried)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will discuss the status of the Runway 16/34 project, updates to the T Hangar project, and maintenance items including airport lighting and signage. The meeting also includes routine approvals of meeting minutes and vouchers.

• Runway 16/34 Project Status
• Update T Hangar Project
• Airport Lighting Outside maintenance
• Airport Signage maintenance

The Commission approved a budget of up to $3,000 for Peterson Construction to push down wooden fence posts. Members also reviewed the status of the Runway 16/34 project and the T-Hangar project.

• Approved budget up to $3,000 for Peterson Construction to push down wooden fence posts (All ayes)
• Approved April 2021 meeting minutes (All ayes)
• Approved payment of vouchers (All ayes)

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees is meeting to discuss the library's COVID-19 building closure, curbside pickup, and reopening plans, along with a space needs study. The board will also review two policies: Copyright Compliance and Meeting Rooms/Public Use. Other agenda items include a strategic plan progress update and a report from the Friends/WVLS representative.

• Update on COVID-19 building closure, curbside pickup, and reopening
• Space needs study discussion
• Policy review: Copyright Compliance Policy
• Policy review: Meeting Rooms, Public Use of Policy
• Strategic Plan Progress Goal #3

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees voted to keep masks required for employees and patrons, following recent CDC guideline changes, and said it will revisit the policy at each regular meeting. The Board approved the Copyright Compliance Policy and the Meeting Rooms, Public Use of Policy as presented, and approved its April 21 minutes and April monthly Revenue and Expense Report. The space needs study by MSRDesign remains on hold, with public input to resume only when public health conditions allow and not before the next school year. The Board also agreed by consensus that the president and library director, with the Lincoln County Health Department, keep authority over COVID operating decisions.

• Kept mask requirement for library employees and patrons; no change made
• Approved Copyright Compliance Policy as presented
• Approved Meeting Rooms, Public Use of Policy as presented
• Approved minutes of the April 21, 2021 regular meeting
• Accepted April monthly Revenue and Expense Report
• By consensus, gave president and director power over COVID operating decisions in consultation with Lincoln County Health Department
• Space needs study by MSRDesign remains on hold; public input deferred until health conditions allow and not before next school year
• Adjourned at 4:30 p.m.

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is meeting to discuss routine transit operations, including an administrator's report on new buses, a COVID-19 update on capacity limitations, and plans for a 100-year motor buses celebration. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or contracts listed.

• New buses update
• COVID-19 capacity limitations review
• 100 years of motor buses celebration: tokens, brochures, banners
• Nickel tour by Tom Burg

The Merrill Transit Commission approved the April 2020 meeting minutes unanimously and adjourned. The administrator reported that buses 9 and 10 are on the road with all equipment working, and ridership is holding steady at 40 to 60 same-day rides. The commission discussed printing tokens, brochures, and banners for a 100-year motorbus anniversary and granted permission to place banners in city right of ways without obstructing views. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved April 2020 minutes (unanimous)
• Granted permission to place 100-year anniversary banners in city right of ways without obstructing views
• Adjourned (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee will discuss proposed ordinance revisions, new procedures for historic structure nominations, and preservation standards. An update on the TB Scott mansion tower will also be provided. The meeting is open to public comment and will set the date for the next session.

• Discussion and Recommendations on Ordinance Revisions
• Discussion on Procedure and Policies for new nominations for Historic Structures
• Discussion on Historic Preservation Standards
• Update on TB Scott mansion tower

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee discussed proposed ordinance revisions, including whether to require a real estate agent and architect on the committee and whether to allow non-Lincoln County residents as members. A motion to remove the non-resident limitation, keep the real estate broker, strike the three-term language and leave the architect language in was made and will be discussed at the next meeting. A separate motion to eliminate the revised ordinance carried. The committee also discussed historic structure nominations, plaques, and criteria, and heard a public comment on the inventory of historic properties.

• Approved April 8 minutes (motion carried)
• Motion to remove non-resident limitation, keep real estate broker, strike three-term language, leave architect language in — will be discussed at next meeting
• Motion to eliminate the revised ordinance — carried
• Adjourned at 6:36 pm (motion carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will discuss the city’s strategic plan and potential adjustments to its committee structure. No formal decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.

The Committee of the Whole met on May 11, 2021 and discussed the 2020-2024 Strategic Plan, focusing on how to increase citizen engagement in city government. Members also discussed possible changes to city committees, including combining the Water and Sewage Disposal Committee with the Board of Public Works. No action was necessary, requested or taken on either agenda item. The meeting adjourned at 5:59 P.M. after a motion by Russell and Rick.

• No action taken on review of the 2020-2024 Strategic Plan
• No action taken on possible changes to City committees
• Adjourned at 5:59 P.M. (motion Russell/Rick, carried)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet May 11, 2021 to consider several key items, including a $5,100 offer to sell city-owned property at 1405 Mathews Street, recommendations for allocating American Rescue Plan funds to local events, and multiple ordinances such as creating a Marketing and Communications Committee and prohibiting animal cruelty. The meeting also includes public comment, committee reports, and appointments to various boards.

• Consider $5,100 offer to sell city-owned property at 1405 Mathews Street
• Allocate American Rescue Plan funds to Lincoln County Fair Association and Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo
• Amend ordinance to create Marketing and Communications Committee
• Amend ordinance to prohibit cruelty to animals
• Approve final plat for single-family residential development at Grand Avenue, Edgewater Drive, and Rock Ridge Court

The Common Council approved four American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding allocations totaling $148,000, including $70,000 for city department PPE and supplies, $15,000 for the Lincoln County Fair Association, $7,500 for the Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo, and $55,500 for Strand Associates water tower design and a safe drinking water loan. It also approved a $173,554.55 low bid from Merrill Gravel and Construction Co. for the Parkview Drive project and a $33,150.00 low bid from American Asphalt for River Bend Trail paving. The council approved the $5,100 offer to purchase city-owned property at 1405 Mathews Street after a motion to refer it to a sealed bid process failed 3-5. Several ordinances and resolutions were also approved, including a final plat for the Rock Ridge Park subdivision and a resolution honoring retiring police officer Mark J. Heckendorf.

• Approved $70,000 ARP allocation for PPE and supplies for city departments
• Approved $15,000 ARP allocation for Lincoln County Fair Association
• Approved $7,500 ARP allocation for Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo
• Approved $55,500 ARP allocation for Strand Associates (water tower design & safe drinking water loan)
• Approved $173,554.55 low bid from Merrill Gravel and Construction Co. for Parkview Drive project
• Approved $33,150.00 low bid from American Asphalt for River Bend Trail paving
• Approved $5,100 offer to purchase city-owned property at 1405 Mathews Street (6-2 roll call vote)
• Approved Ordinance 2021-07 prohibiting cruelty to animals (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will review how to allocate American Rescue Plan funds, including requests from local groups, and consider an engineering proposal to repair the East Side Water Tower. No formal decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Discuss American Rescue Plan fund allocations for Lincoln County Fair Association and Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo
• Consider Strand engineering proposal for East Side Water Tower repairs

The Merrill Committee of the Whole recommended allocating American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to four purposes: $15,000 to the Lincoln County Fair Association, $7,500 to the Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo, $70,000 for personal protective equipment and supplies for City departments, and $55,500 to Strand Associates Inc. for East Side Water Tower design and Safe Drinking Water Loan assistance. The committee also decided to use a tweaked version of the Tourism Commission funding application form for future ARPA requests. All recommendations go to the May 11 Common Council meeting for consideration. The City expects to receive $445,000 in ARPA funds in 2021 and the same amount in 2022, totaling $890,000.

• Recommended allocating $15,000 in ARPA funds to Lincoln County Fair Association (7-2; Hass and Osness voted no)
• Recommended allocating $7,500 in ARPA funds to Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo (7-2; Hass and Osness voted no)
• Recommended allocating $70,000 in ARPA funds for PPE and supplies for City departments (9-0)
• Recommended allocating $55,500 in ARPA funds to Strand Associates Inc. for water tower design ($43,500) and Safe Drinking Water Loan assistance ($12,000) (carried)
• Decided to use the Tourism Commission funding application form, with tweaking, as the ARPA fund request application
• Adjourned at 6:28 P.M. (carried)

Fairgrounds Committee

The Festival Grounds Committee met to discuss naming for newly colored buildings and receive updates on the rodeo and fair. The agenda included a review of the Calendar of Events and monthly reports from the Festival Grounds Manager and Permanent Vendor Representative. No specific votes, contracts, or ordinances were listed in the provided text.

• Discussion of building names on newly colored buildings
• Rodeo update
• Fair update
• Calendar of Events review
• Monthly reports from Festival Grounds Manager Bjorklund and Permanent Vendor Rep. Caylor

The committee discussed building signage, rodeo preparations, and fair event scheduling. No formal actions were taken or voted upon during the meeting.

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet on May 5, 2021, to approve minutes, claims, and monthly reports, as well as discuss revisiting the T.B. Scott Tower location decision and continued talks on the Prairie Trails to River Bend connector trail. The meeting will also review designs from a partnership with MHS Graphic Design Class for potential park merchandise.

• Re-visit T.B. Scott Tower location decision
• Continued discussion on Prairie Trails to River Bend connector trail (request road portions as Bike Route Designations)
• Discuss designs from MHS Graphic Design Class for potential park merchandise sale

The Parks and Recreation Commission voted unanimously to place the T.B. Scott Tower at site location #2, moved east so the hill where the tower used to sit is visible. The commission also unanimously referred a designated bike route for the Prairie Trails to River Bend connector to the Board of Public Works for approval. It approved April minutes and April claims, both unanimously, and discussed park merchandise designs from an MHS Graphic Design class partnership without taking action. Public comment covered tower placement preferences and support for parks funding.

• Approved April meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved April claims (unanimous)
• Placed T.B. Scott Tower at site location #2, moved east to preserve view of the original hill (unanimous)
• Referred designated bike route for Prairie Trails to River Bend connector to Board of Public Works (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 5:07 p.m. (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will hold a regular meeting at City Hall Council Chambers to discuss city marketing and communications strategies. The meeting includes remote attendance options and public comment.

The Committee of the Whole discussed a marketing standards guide and the city's current identities. No formal decisions were made during the meeting, though members discussed the formation of a Marketing and Communications Committee currently under consideration by the Common Council.

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will review a resolution authorizing a development agreement with Rain Auto Wash LLC for Future TID No. 14. The body will also review the TIF Loan Program Policy adopted in July 2016 and receive updates on federal and state business grant programs funded by the American Rescue Plan Act. Closed session items include a TIF loan extension request and potential property purchases.

• Resolution authorizing development agreement with Rain Auto Wash LLC (Future TID No. 14)
• Review of TIF Loan Program Policy adopted July 2016
• Update on business grant programs funded by Federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
• Closed session: Request from Stephen & Linda Blake to extend TIF Loan (TID No. 9)
• Closed session: Potential purchase of adjacent tax delinquent properties (TID No. 7)

The Redevelopment Authority recommended a development agreement with Rain Auto Wash LLC for a new car wash and showroom in future TID No. 14, and approved meeting minutes. In closed session, it voted to extend a TID No. 9 loan for Stephen and Linda Blake by five years and gave policy direction on acquiring tax-delinquent properties in TID No. 7. It also received updates on a $184,775 land purchase for a 36-unit apartment project in TID No. 8, with a formal resolution expected May 25.

• Recommended development agreement with Rain Auto Wash LLC (Future TID No. 14) (motion carried)
• Approved April 7 Joint RDA-Committee of Whole meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Extended TID No. 9 loan for Stephen and Linda Blake by five years at same interest rate and monthly payment (motion carried)
• Gave policy direction for negotiation of potential tax-delinquent property acquisitions in TID No. 7 (consensus)
• Approved closed session minutes from April 7 Joint RDA-Committee of Whole meeting (consensus)
• Moved into closed session at 8:53 a.m. (6-0 roll call vote)
• Adjourned at 9:14 a.m. (motion carried)

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will hold a regular meeting to consider several items, including a recommendation on a partial alley vacation request and the final plat for Rock Ridge Park. They will also hear an oral report from the Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator on Certified Survey Maps and take public comment.

• Oral report from Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator Pagel on Certified Survey Maps
• Consider recommendation on Brent Scantlin's application for partial alley vacation in the 1400 block of West Main Street
• Final Plat of Rock Ridge Park

The City Plan Commission approved the final plat of Rock Ridge Park, contingent on final approval by the State of Wisconsin, and approved a partial alley vacation in the 1400 block of West Main Street requested by Brent Scantlin. Both items were sent to the Common Council. The Commission also received an oral report that one Certified Survey Map was approved in the past month for an extraterritorial survey in the Town of Merrill.

• Approved minutes of the March 11, 2021 meeting
• Approved partial alley vacation in the 1400 block of West Main Street (application by Brent Scantlin), sent to Council
• Approved final plat of Rock Ridge Park, contingent on final approval by the State of Wisconsin, sent to Council
• Adjourned at 5:34 P.M.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Merrill Zoning Board of Appeals will meet on May 4, 2021, to conduct two public hearings on variance requests. The board will also approve minutes from a prior meeting and address other business before adjourning.

• Variance request by Michael Van Der Geest for front yard setback at 2806-2808 E. Main Street
• Variance request by Tim Stevenson for front yard fence height and visibility at 1809 E 3rd Street

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance requested by Mike VanDerGeest and approved a solid 6-foot fence throughout the entire yard for Mary Stevenson. Both votes were unanimous. The board also approved its December 2, 2020 minutes and set its next meeting for Wednesday, June 2, 2021.

• Approved December 2, 2020 minutes (carried)
• Approved VanDerGeest variance (unanimous)
• Approved solid 6' fence throughout the entire yard (unanimous)
• Set next meeting for Wednesday, June 2, 2021
• Adjourned at 6:15 p.m. (carried)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council held a special meeting on April 28, 2021, with only procedural items, a public comment period, and a closed session for potential real estate negotiations. No ordinances, contracts, or public hearings were listed for action.

The Common Council held a special meeting and voted to enter a closed session to discuss the potential acquisition of real estate. The council opted not to reconvene in open session for any further action.

• Approved motion to convene in closed session to discuss potential acquisition of real estate (7-0)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will consider an offer to purchase city-owned property at 1405 Mathews Street, with details presented at the meeting. They will also review a partial alley vacation request and discuss potential changes to the brush pickup policy. Monthly reports from city staff will be presented and considered for filing.

• Offer to purchase city-owned property at 1405 Mathews Street
• Application from Brent Scantlin for partial alley vacation in 1400 block of West Main Street
• Review of and potential changes to brush pickup policy
• Monthly reports from Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator Pagel, Public Works Director/City Engineer Akey, Street Superintendent Bonack, and Street & Weed Commissioner Liberty

The Board of Public Works approved the sale of city-owned property at 1405 Mathews Street and updated the brush pickup policy to limit pile dimensions. The board also recommended approval for a partial alley vacation on West Main Street.

• Approved $5,100 sale of city property at 1405 Mathews Street (sent to Council)
• Recommended approval of partial alley vacation in 1400 block of West Main Street (referred to City Plan Commission)
• Approved brush pickup policy limiting piles to 4ft high, 6ft wide, and 10ft long
• Approved vouchers
• Placed monthly reports on file

Water & Sewage Disposal Committee

The Merrill Water & Sewage Disposal Committee will review and discuss the need for an additional water tower and possible funding sources, as well as a cross connection report, future plan, and certification pay. The committee will also consider March vouchers and receive an operations report.

• Discussion on need for additional water tower and funding sources
• Discussion on cross connection report, future plan, and certification pay
• Approval of March vouchers
• Operations report

The committee approved March vouchers and referred the need for a new water tower to the Committee of the Whole without a recommendation. It also recommended that utility operators become certified for in-house cross connection inspections, referring the matter to the Personnel and Finance Committee.

• Approved March vouchers
• Referred water tower need and funding to Committee of the Whole (no recommendation)
• Recommended approval of in-house cross connection certification and referred to Personnel and Finance Committee

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will discuss and potentially act on an animal cruelty ordinance, review liquor license applications including a temporary permit for the Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo, and receive monthly reports from city department heads. The meeting will also include COVID-19 updates and nuisance complaint reviews.

• Consider ordinance amending Code of Ordinances Chapter 6, Section 6-91 to prohibit cruelty to animals
• Review liquor license application from Lincoln County Rodeo Association Inc. for three temporary Class "B" (picnic) licenses at Merrill Festival Grounds for June 11-13, 2021
• Review existing liquor license for Allen Shidell at El Mariachi, 608 East Second Street
• Consider ordinance repealing milk license requirements in Code Ordinances Chapter 8, Article VII, Sections 8-164 and 8-165
• Receive Fire Department 2020 Annual Report

The Health and Safety Committee voted to commence license revocation procedures for Allen Shidell's liquor license for El Mariachi, 608 East Second Street, after police reported no observed activity at the site. The committee also recommended approval of an ordinance prohibiting cruelty to animals and an ordinance repealing antiquated milk license requirements, both sent to the Common Council for the May 11, 2021 meeting. It approved three temporary Class "B" picnic licenses for the Lincoln County Rodeo Association's Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo, June 11-13, 2021, and placed monthly reports on file.

• Approved vouchers (Blake/Weix)
• Approved three temporary Class "B" picnic licenses for Lincoln County Rodeo Association at Merrill Festival Grounds, June 11-13, 2021; sent to Council
• Approved commencing license revocation procedures for Allen Shidell's liquor license for El Mariachi, 608 East Second Street (Blake/Weix)
• Recommended approval of ordinance amending Chapter 6, Section 6-91 to prohibit cruelty to animals; sent to Council
• Recommended approval of ordinance repealing Chapter 8, Article VII, Sections 8-164 and 8-165 on milk licenses and requirements; sent to Council
• Approved minutes of March 22, 2021 meeting (Weix/Blake)
• Placed monthly reports on file (Blake/Weix)
• Adjourned at 6:18 P.M. (Blake/Weix)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Merrill Personnel and Finance Committee will meet to review policies on employee personnel file storage and accessibility, receive monthly reports from municipal departments, and discuss scheduling the next meeting. The agenda includes a public comment period and closed sessions for contract negotiations and personnel evaluations.

• Review policies for storage and accessibility of employee personnel files
• Consider placing monthly reports on file (Municipal Court, Finance Director, City Attorney, City Clerk, City Administrator, Fire Department)
• Closed session for Fire Department contracts and personnel evaluations (City Administrator and communication reports)

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved a motion to approve vouchers and voted to place monthly reports on file. It discussed new electronic personnel file policies but took no action. The committee convened in two closed sessions — one on Fire Department contracts with Lincoln County and rural entities, and one on City Administrator performance review and communication between City Officials and Elected Officials — with no action taken afterward in open session. The next meeting will be at the call of the Chairperson.

• Approved vouchers (Osness/Blake)
• Placed monthly reports on file (Osness/Blake)
• Convened in closed session on Fire Department contracts with Lincoln County and rural entities (3-0 roll call)
• Convened in closed session on City Administrator performance review and communication between City Officials and Elected Officials (3-0 roll call)
• Adjourned (Osness/Blake)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is meeting to discuss routine business and several ongoing projects. Key items include the status of the Runway 16/34 project, a discussion on a T-hangar project, and an update on the fuel system credit card reader. The meeting also covers airport maintenance, signage, and other reports.

• Runway 16/34 project status update
• Discussion of T-hangar project
• Update on fuel system credit card reader
• Discussion of F-84 display and mounting
• Discussion of scoping meeting for 2021 entitlement projects

The Merrill Airport Commission approved the March 2021 minutes and authorized payment of vouchers. The commission discussed a runway rebuild project where the FAA is re-writing policy to avoid funding it, with a response deadline of May 5, 2021. A T Hangar project is on hold until next year due to material costs, while a fuel system credit card reader installation is scheduled for May 12 with state funding covering 80% of the cost.

• Approved March 2021 minutes
• Approved payment of vouchers
• T Hangar project on hold until next year
• Fuel system credit card reader install scheduled for May 12
• FAA response deadline set for May 5, 2021 for runway 16/34 project

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to discuss and potentially act on several items, including an update on COVID-19 building closure and reopening, a request from After the Bell, building and grounds updates, standardized loan periods and a policy review on fines and fees, a contract review for John Greenwood, and progress on the strategic plan. The board will also consider consent items including the minutes from the March meeting and the monthly revenue and expense report.

• Update on COVID-19 building closure, curbside pickup, and reopening
• After the Bell request
• Standardized loan periods and policy review on fines and fees
• John Greenwood contract review
• Strategic plan progress goal #2

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved $4,000 from the Endowment Fund for the After the Bell Program, increased from an initial $3,000 proposal. The board also approved the revised Fines and Fees Policy and a transition to standardized loan periods set by the VCat Council, effective November 1st or later. Funds were approved for cleaning the Scott Mausoleum exterior and windows, and the board accepted the March revenue and expense report. No changes were made to COVID-19 building procedures, as Lincoln County's activity level remained High.

• Approved March 17 meeting minutes and March Monthly Revenue and Expense Report (consent)
• Approved $4,000 from Endowment Fund for After the Bell Program, amended up from $3,000
• Approved funds per proposal for Scott Mausoleum exterior and window cleaning from Endowment Fund
• Approved revised Fines and Fees Policy and transition to VCat Council standardized loan periods effective November 1st or later
• No change to current COVID-19 procedures for patrons and staff; requested Lincoln County Health Director report at next meeting
• Adjourned at 5:05 p.m.; next meeting May 19th at 4:00 p.m.

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee is holding a special meeting with a closed session to discuss a grievance filed by International Association of Firefighters Local 847. The committee may reconvene in open session for potential action on the issue. The agenda is otherwise limited to procedural items.

• Closed session to discuss grievance filed by International Association of Firefighters Local 847
• Potential action on closed session issue in open session

The Personnel and Finance Committee met in closed session to discuss a grievance filed by the International Association of Firefighters Local 847. The committee concurred with the grievance regarding the potential use of a part-time employee in the Community Paramedic Program.

• Concurred with Firefighter Local 847 grievance regarding Community Paramedic Program part-time employee use

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is meeting to approve March minutes, hear the administrator's report on a new bus build and 2021 first-quarter review, and discuss COVID-19 capacity limitations. They will also plan for the 100 years of motor buses celebration on November 17, 2021, including tokens, banners, brochures, and a nickel tour by Tom Burg.

• New bus build, inspection, and delivery
• 2021 1st Quarter review
• COVID-19 capacity limitations review
• 100 years of motor buses celebration planning (tokens, banners, brochures)
• Nickel tour by Tom Burg

The Transit Commission approved its March 2020 minutes and the Administrator's report, which noted that buses 9 and 10 have been delivered and that a Gillig PDI is set for April 20, 2021. It voted unanimously to remove capacity limits, with ridership reported steady at 40 to 60 same-day rides. For the 100 Years of Motorbus Anniversary, the commission decided the nickel tour will be held November 6; token, brochure and banner details were only discussed. The next meeting is May 17, 2021 at the Council Chambers in City Hall, 1004 E 1st St, Merrill, WI 54452.

• Approved March 2020 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Administrator's report (unanimous)
• Removed bus capacity limits (unanimous)
• Set 100 Years of Motorbus nickel tour for November 6
• Set next meeting for May 17, 2021 at Council Chambers, City Hall
• Adjourned (unanimous)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is holding a regular meeting to approve March minutes and vouchers, receive updates on COVID-19 operations, and discuss committee appointments, marketing, and program attendance. The agenda includes a mask declaration requiring face coverings in city facilities until May 26th, and the upcoming Craft Show on May 1st.

• Approval of March meeting minutes and vouchers
• COVID-19 update: face coverings required in city facilities until May 26th per Mayor Derek Woellner's declaration
• Craft Show on May 1st will require/recommend mask use while shopping
• Discussion of mayor's committee appointments (Bertagnoli, Bebel, Akey, Harvey term ends 5-1-22)
• Marketing committee update and programs/attendance discussion

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved its March minutes and April 2021 vouchers, both by motions that carried. The committee received updates on COVID-19 operations, including that the MEC is following the Mayor's Face Mask Declaration until May 26 unless otherwise determined, and on the May 1 craft show's mask and sanitizing plans. The ADRC reported it will open June 7 for scheduled appointments only and is creating four new part-time positions for vaccine registration and outreach. The committee also discussed Mayor's one-year appointments to the MEC and a proposed city marketing committee ordinance referred to the next Common Council meeting.

• Approved March minutes (motion by Bebel, second by Harvey; carried)
• Approved April 2021 vouchers (motion by Akey, second by Harvey; carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion by Bebel, second by Harvey)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will hear updates on moving public fire protection funding from property taxes to water rates and on a preliminary water-rate study. Members will also review preliminary finance recommendations for the American Rescue Plan and a proposal by Strand Associates to build an East Side water storage tank.

• Public Fire Protection funding transfer from property tax to water rates
• Preliminary Water Rate Study
• American Rescue Plan preliminary finance recommendations
• Strand Associates proposal for East Side Water Storage Tank

The committee reviewed information regarding a preliminary water rate study and recommendations for allocating $890,000 in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds. No formal actions were taken on these items, and a proposal for the East Side Water Storage Tank was deferred. The meeting was procedural in nature.

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet on April 13, 2021, to discuss and vote on several items, including a $125,000 budget amendment for the Redevelopment Authority to facilitate Parkview Drive construction. The council will also consider funding requests from local organizations, review financial reports, and vote on ordinances and resolutions.

• $279,356.55 contract for Superior Street Extension and St. Paul Street Surface Project awarded to Merrill Gravel & Construction Co.
• $125,000 TID No. 11 budget amendment for Parkview Drive construction
• $5,000 funding request from Lincoln County Fair Association
• $7,500 funding request from Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo
• Ordinance to create a Marketing and Communications Committee

The Common Council approved the low bid of $279,356.55 from Merrill Gravel & Construction Co. for the Superior Street Extension and St. Paul Street surface project. It also approved development agreements with Merrill Social & Sick Benefit Society (incentive up to $30,000) and JJ Premier LLC Phase 2 (up to $50,000 and transfer of five Parkview Drive lots, amended from four). A $125,000 TID No. 11 budget amendment for Parkview Drive construction passed unanimously, and the Merrill Safe Routes to School Plan was adopted. Funding requests from the Lincoln County Fair Association ($5,000) and Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo ($7,500) were referred to the next Committee of the Whole.

• Approved low bid of $279,356.55 from Merrill Gravel & Construction Co. for M-2021-02 Superior Street Extension and St. Paul Street Surface Project
• Approved $125,000 TID No. 11 budget amendment for Parkview Drive construction (unanimous roll call)
• Approved development agreement with Merrill Social & Sick Benefit Society, incentive not to exceed $30,000 (Resolution #2680)
• Approved as amended development agreement with JJ Premier LLC Phase 2, incentive not to exceed $50,000 and transfer of five Parkview Drive lots (Resolution #2681)
• Adopted Merrill Safe Routes to School Plan (Resolution #2682)
• Referred $5,000 Lincoln County Fair Association funding request to next Committee of the Whole
• Referred $7,500 Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo funding request to next Committee of the Whole
• Approved banner program contingent on State of Wisconsin allowing banners on City roads that are also state highways

Fairgrounds Committee

The Merrill Festival Grounds Committee will discuss updates on the Festival Grounds Manager contract, rodeo plans, fair preparations, and the calendar of events. Monthly reports from the Festival Grounds Manager and Permanent Vendor Rep will also be presented.

• Update on Festival Grounds Manager contract
• Rodeo update
• Fair update
• Calendar of Events review

The City of Merrill Festival Grounds Committee met on April 8, 2021 and took no substantive decisions. It received an update that the Personnel and Finance Committee had recommended reinstating full pay of $1,000 per month for the Festival Grounds Manager effective April 15, 2021, with the Common Council to consider that recommendation on April 13, 2021; the Festival Grounds Committee took no action on it. Members also heard updates on the 2021 Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo (June 11-13) and the 2021 Lincoln County Fair (August 11-15), and set the next meeting for Thursday, May 6, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. The only motion was to adjourn (Caylor/Rick), which carried.

• No action taken on Festival Grounds Manager pay; Personnel and Finance Committee recommendation for $1,000 per month effective April 15, 2021 goes to Common Council on April 13, 2021
• Next meeting set for Thursday, May 6, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. in City Hall Common Council Chambers
• Motion to adjourn (Caylor/Rick) carried; meeting adjourned at 6:14 P.M.

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to approve past minutes and discuss procedures for new historic structure nominations, alongside preservation standards. Members of the public may attend the meeting in person at City Hall Council Chambers or remotely by phone.

• Discussion on Procedure and Policies for new nominations for Historic Structures
• Discussion on Historic Preservation Standards
• Approval of February 17th, February 22nd, and March 11, 2021 Minutes

The committee discussed whether to designate historic structures without owner consent and the need to update a 1992 list of potential structures. No action was taken on these policy changes. Discussion on historic preservation standards was postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved February 17, February 22 (as amended), and March 11, 2021 minutes

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole and Redevelopment Authority will discuss updates on new residential developments, infrastructure improvements for TID No. 11, and potential development agreements with JJ Premier LLC. Closed session items include negotiations for cash incentives to facilitate redevelopment along E. Main St. and in TID No. 8, as well as updates on property purchases for new housing.

• Update on new residential developments (2009 through March)
• Review of Rock Ridge Park Plat and request for four additional lots for 2021 single-family construction
• Consider 2021 TID No. 11 budget amendment for Parkview Drive infrastructure
• Consider development agreement with JJ Premier LLC - Phase 2 (TID No. 11)
• Consider cash development incentives for redevelopment along E. Main St. and in TID No. 8

The joint Merrill Redevelopment Authority and Committee of the Whole recommended a $125,000 TID No. 11 budget amendment to build Parkview Drive through the Rock Ridge Park Plat, and recommended a Phase 2 development agreement with JJ Premier LLC. The group also reviewed residential development updates and a low construction bid of $279,356.55 for W. St. Paul St. and Superior Street work, which the Common Council will consider April 13. In closed session, the RDA finalized a $130,000 cash development incentive for an E. Main St. car wash and showroom project and set a final offer of land for $1.00 plus up to $200,000 for multi-family housing in TID No. 8.

• Recommended $125,000 TID No. 11 budget amendment for Parkview Dr. construction (Mindak/Polak, carried)
• Recommended development agreement with JJ Premier LLC – Phase 2 (TID No. 11) (Kusserow/Sabatke, carried)
• Approved March 10, 2021 RDA meeting minutes by consensus
• Moved into closed session at 5:55 p.m. (Sabatke/Mindak, carried 7-0 on roll call)
• Finalized $130,000 cash development incentive for E. Main St. car wash and showroom project, paid over three years after construction and occupancy (closed session)
• Set final offer of land for $1.00 and maximum $200,000 cash development incentive for multi-family housing in TID No. 8 (closed session)
• Adjourned at 7:25 p.m. (Mindak/Kusserow, carried)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to review monthly reports and approve claims. The commission will also discuss and make a recommendation regarding the River Bend Trail route through the MARC to connect with Council Grounds.

• Recommendation for River Bend Trail route through the MARC
• Approval of claims
• Approval of previous meeting minutes

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission approved the Blue Route option for the River Bend Trail extension through the MARC to connect with Council Grounds. It also approved the March meeting minutes and March claims, both unanimously. Public comment covered the River Bend Trail route, the TB Scott Tower location, and a suggestion to revisit the 10-year plan for a new playground at Stange Park. The commission adjourned at 5:00 p.m.

• Approved the Blue Route option for the River Bend Trail extension through the MARC to connect with Council Grounds (unanimous)
• Approved the minutes from the March meeting (unanimous)
• Approved the claims from March (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 5:00 p.m. (unanimous)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council is holding a special meeting to consider a single resolution supporting CMJ Investments, LLC, doing business as 'The Lofts at City Hall,' in its application for Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) funds for a renovation. The agenda includes public comment, but no other substantive items are listed.

• Resolution supporting CMJ Investments, LLC, D/B/A 'The Lofts at City Hall' application for WEDC funds for a renovation

The Common Council approved a resolution supporting a grant application to the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation for workforce housing renovations. The Council also approved a Development Agreement with CMJ Investments, LLC.

• Approved Resolution #2679 supporting WEDC grant application for The Lofts at City Hall
• Approved Development Agreement between the City and CMJ Investments, LLC

Water & Sewage Disposal Committee

The Water & Sewage Disposal Committee will consider merging with the Board of Public Works Committee. They will also discuss a service call bill at 1815 W Main St. The meeting includes routine voucher approvals and monthly operations reports.

• Discussion on merging City Water & Sewer Committee with Board of Public Works Committee
• Discussion on service call bill at 1815 W Main St

The Water & Sewage Disposal Committee approved a motion to merge with the Board of Public Works, though no information on the merger was included in the meeting packet. The committee also approved the January and February vouchers. On a service call bill question at 1815 W Main St, the utility operations manager reported no action was necessary, and no action was taken. The meeting adjourned at 5:10 P.M.; the next meeting is set for April 28, 2021 at 5:00 P.M.

• Approved January and February vouchers (Rick/Weix)
• Approved merger of Water and Sewage Disposal Committee with Board of Public Works (Rick/Weix)
• No action taken on service call bill at 1815 W Main St; staff reported no action necessary
• Set next meeting for Wednesday, April 28, 2021 at 5:00 P.M. in City Hall Common Council Chambers
• Adjourned at 5:10 P.M. (Rick/Weix)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss forming a new Marketing & Communications Committee and potentially increasing the size of standing committees from three to four alderpersons. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

The Committee of the Whole discussed three options for structuring a Marketing and Communications Committee and reached a consensus favoring a standing committee. A motion to approve a draft ordinance creating the committee carried 6-3 on a roll call vote, with City Attorney Hayden to prepare the ordinance for a future Common Council meeting. A separate agenda item on amending standing committee composition from three to four alderpersons was not discussed due to time constraints. No public comment was taken.

• Motion to approve draft ordinance creating a Marketing and Communications Committee carried 6-3 on roll call vote; City Attorney Hayden to prepare ordinance for a future Common Council meeting
• Consensus favored a standing committee structure over a citizen commission or local grant option
• Agenda item on amending standing committee composition from three to four alderpersons not discussed due to time constraints
• Motion to adjourn carried; meeting adjourned at 7:01 P.M.

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works is meeting to consider an alley vacation request, review bids for a street project, discuss the automated garbage and recycling start date, and continue discussion on District 7 properties. They will also receive monthly reports from city staff.

• Alley vacation request from Brent Scantlin for alley on north side of 1400 block of West Main Street
• Bids for M-2021-02 Superior Street Extension and St. Paul Street Surface Project
• Discussion and action on automated garbage and recycling start date
• Continue discussion on District 7 properties
• Monthly reports from Building Inspector, Public Works Director, Street Superintendent, and Street & Weed Commissioner

The Board of Public Works approved the low bid of $279,356.55 from Merrill Gravel & Construction Co. for the M-2021-02 Superior Street Extension and St. Paul Street Surface Project; the item was sent to the Common Council, with a next date of 4/13/2021. The Board also approved postponing the start date of the automated garbage/recycling program until spring 2022, and approved placing the monthly reports on file. No formal action was taken on an alley vacation request on the north side of the 1400 block of West Main Street or on continued discussion of District 7 properties.

• Approved vouchers (motion Rick/Van Lieshout)
• Approved low bid of $279,356.55 from Merrill Gravel & Construction Co. for M-2021-02 Superior Street Extension and St. Paul Street Surface Project; sent to Council, next 4/13/2021 (Sabatke abstained)
• Approved postponing automated garbage/recycling program start date until spring 2022 (motion Rick/Van Lieshout)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion Van Lieshout/Sabatke)
• No formal action taken on alley vacation request for alley on north side of 1400 block of West Main Street; City Attorney directed to start the process
• No action taken on continued discussion of District 7 properties
• Adjourned at 5:53 P.M. (motion Van Lieshout/Sabatke)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The committee will discuss city financial matters, including tax delinquent properties, TID repayment options, and a $26,945 transfer to the Landfill Fund. They will also consider personnel items, such as FFCRA leave benefits, the pay status of the Festival Grounds Manager, and performance evaluations for city staff.

• Consider $26,945 General Fund Transfer for 2021 Landfill Fund repayment
• Consider Fire Department request to increase swimming pool filling fees
• Consider reinstating full pay for Festival Grounds Manager Bjorklund
• Discussion on handling of city-owned tax delinquent properties
• Review 2021 Lincoln County Fair Grant request

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved ending the City's voluntary extension of Families First Coronavirus Response Act leave benefits effective April 1, 2021, and approved a Fire Department increase in fees for filling swimming pools. It also voted to reinstate full pay of $1,000 per month for the Festival Grounds Manager position effective April 15, 2021, sending that item to the Common Council. Several items — tax-delinquent property policy, TID matters, and a landfill fund transfer — saw no official action, and the committee met in closed session without returning to open session.

• Approved terminating the City's voluntary FFCRA leave extension effective April 1, 2021
• Approved Fire Department increase in swimming pool filling fees, including current water rate in the 'actual gallons used' calculation
• Motion to refer the pool fee increase to the Water and Sewage Disposal Committee failed for lack of a second
• Approved reinstating full pay ($1,000 per month) for the Festival Grounds Manager position effective April 15, 2021; sent to Council (next: 4/13/2021 6:00 PM)
• Directed City Attorney Hayden to draft a policy on handling tax-delinquent properties owned by the City; no action taken
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Voted 3-0 on roll call to convene in closed session; did not reconvene in open session
• Approved vouchers

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee meets to discuss COVID-19 reports, nuisance complaints, liquor license applications, and a resolution on the Merrill Safe Routes to School Plan. Monthly reports from the Fire Chief, Police Chief, and Lincoln County Humane Society will also be reviewed.

• Change of Agent application for Krist Food Mart #88 at 105 S. Center Avenue, naming Amy J. Sazalar as Agent
• Review of existing liquor license for Allen Shidell at El Mariachi, 608 East Second Street
• Consider resolution adopting the Merrill Safe Routes to School Plan (referred back from Common Council on March 9, 2021)
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug and Police Chief Bennett
• Monthly report from Lincoln County Humane Society (none submitted yet)

The Health and Safety Committee approved a resolution to adopt the Merrill Safe Routes to School Plan and a change of agent for a liquor license, both of which were sent to the City Council. The committee also approved vouchers and previous meeting minutes.

• Approved resolution adopting Merrill Safe Routes to School Plan (sent to Council)
• Approved change of agent for Krist Food Mart #88 liquor license (sent to Council)
• Approved vouchers
• Approved minutes for January 25, February 2, and February 22, 2021
• Placed monthly reports on file

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is holding a regular meeting to discuss updates on COVID-19 operations, including vaccinations and CDC recommendations, as well as ADRC updates and strategic issues. The committee will also consider consent items such as approval of February minutes and vouchers.

• Approval of February meeting minutes
• Approval of February vouchers
• COVID-19 operations update: vaccinations/testing, CDC recommendations, MEC operations relative to vaccinations
• Discussion of upcoming Committee member terms
• Discussion of Strategic Issues #3 & #4

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved its February minutes and February/March vouchers. Members discussed COVID-19 safety protocols, including whether to follow CDC guidance for vaccinated people and whether vaccination cards might ever be required, but reached no formal decision. The committee also discussed recruiting a new member and concerns about a proposed city marketing committee, with no votes taken on those items.

• Approved February minutes (motion by Bebel, second by Russell; carried)
• Approved February/March vouchers (motion by Bebel, second by Harvey; carried)
• Adjourned (motion by Bebel, second by Russell)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will meet to discuss the status of the Runway 16/34 project, review written policies for the Airport and T Hangar, and receive updates on maintenance and fuel system upgrades. The agenda includes routine approvals and public comment, with no major decisions scheduled.

• Runway 16/34 Project Status
• Airport and T Hangar written policies discussion
• Fuel System Credit Card Reader update

The Merrill Airport Commission approved paying monthly vouchers and installing a new point-of-sale fuel system from Walt's Petroleum at a cost of $17,751.00, with possible $3,500 rebate for old parts. The commission also reviewed a draft of airport and T-hangar policies, discussed the Runway 16/34 project with little FAA contact, and heard updates on the T-hangar project, an EAA Air Cup Race finish line, and a security system power failure. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved February 2021 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved paying vouchers (motion passed)
• Approved installing new Point of Sale fuel system from Walt's Petroleum at $17,751.00 (motion passed)
• Motion to adjourn passed

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees is meeting to discuss the library's COVID-19 building closure, curbside pickup, and reopening plans. The board will also review its donations policy, track progress on Strategic Plan Goal #1, and receive reports from the Friends group and WVLS representative.

• Update on COVID-19 building closure, curbside pickup, and reopening
• Policy review: donations
• Strategic Plan Progress Goal #1
• Wisconsin Trustee Essential #3-Bylaws—Organizing the Board for Effective Action
• Reports from Friends/WVLS Representative

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved minutes from its February and March special meetings, accepted the February revenue and expense report, and approved a revised donations policy. The board also reviewed an update on COVID-19 procedures: Lincoln County's activity level is Medium, capacity limits can increase, and masks will remain required for the foreseeable future. No other substantive decisions were recorded; remaining items were reports and discussion.

• Approved February 17 and March 11 meeting minutes as printed
• Accepted February monthly revenue and expense report
• Approved donations policy as presented
• Adjourned meeting at 4:30 p.m.; next meeting April 21 at 4:00 p.m.

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will convene on March 15, 2021, at 4:00 p.m. in City Hall chambers or by phone. The meeting covers routine approval of prior minutes, an administrator’s report including a COVID-19 update and new bus inspection and delivery, and planning for the 100-year motor bus anniversary event scheduled for November 17, 2021.

• Approve minutes from February 15 and 22, 2021 meetings
• Administrator’s report: COVID-19 update and new bus build, inspection, and delivery
• Plan tokens and banners for 100 years of motor buses event on November 17, 2021
• Nickel tour presentation by Tom Burg for 100 years of motor buses event

The Merrill Transit Commission met on March 15, 2021, and approved minutes from earlier meetings by unanimous vote. The administrator reported that ridership is holding steady at 40 to 60 same-day rides, that new bus production has started with about $2,100 in savings noted so far, and that planning continues for a 100 Years of Motorbus Anniversary. No new transit policies, contracts, or spending items were decided; the next meeting is April 19, 2021 at City Hall.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous) — minutes text references February 15 and 22, 2020, but the motion and second name a January 2020 meeting
• No public comment recorded
• Next meeting set for April 19, 2021 at Council Chambers, City Hall, 1004 E 1st St, Merrill, WI 54452
• Adjourned by unanimous vote

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing to consider designating the T.B. Scott Mansion as a City of Merrill Historic Structure. The meeting will also include an oral report from the Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator on Certified Survey Maps.

• Public hearing on designating T.B. Scott Mansion (501 S. Center Avenue) as a historic structure
• Oral report from Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator Pagel on Certified Survey Maps

The City Plan Commission held a public hearing on designating the T.B. Scott Mansion at 501 S. Center Avenue as a City of Merrill Historic Structure, then took no action after the City Attorney advised that a designation would change nothing because a demolition permit had already been issued and demolition was proceeding. The Commission approved the minutes of its February 2, 2021 meeting. The next meeting will be at the call of the Chairperson.

• Approved minutes of the February 2, 2021 meeting
• Opened and closed a public hearing on historic designation of the T.B. Scott Mansion, 501 S. Center Avenue
• Took no action on the historic designation after the City Attorney recommended no action by the Plan Commission and Common Council
• Set the next meeting at the call of the Chairperson
• Adjourned at 6:23 P.M.

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to receive an update on the T.B. Scott Mansion, discuss donations for tower preservation, and consider procedures for new historic structure nominations and building repair guidelines. The agenda includes public comment and setting the next meeting date.

• Update on T.B. Scott Mansion status
• Discussion on donations for tower preservation
• Discussion on procedures and policies for new nominations for Historic Structures
• Discussion on building repair guidelines

The committee discussed the status of the T.B. Scott Mansion and potential policies for future historic structure nominations. No formal votes were taken on preservation policies or funding. The committee chair announced that the group will now meet monthly.

• Established monthly meeting schedule
• Scheduled next meeting for April 8, 2021

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting to consider applications for the Library Director position in a closed session under Wisconsin State Statutes. The board will reconvene in open session to take action on closed session issues before adjourning.

• Closed session to consider Library Director applications under Wis. Stat. § 19.85(1)(c)
• Reconvene in open session to take action on closed session issues

The Board of Trustees held a special meeting to review applications for the Library Director position. Following a closed session, the Board reconvened in open session to appoint a new director.

• Approved Jessica Zellers as the new Library Director

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will meet to approve minutes from January, discuss a development agreement with the Merrill Social and Sick Benefit Society, and reallocate 2021 TID No. 7 funds for utility infrastructure along Poplar Street. The Authority may also consider closed-session negotiations for property purchases and cash incentives to support multi-family housing and redevelopment projects.

• Approve RDA meeting minutes from January 19th
• Authorize development agreement with Merrill Social and Sick Benefit Society (TID No. 8)
• Reallocate 2021 TID No. 7 budget for utility infrastructure extension north of E. 9th St. along Poplar St.
• Consider potential purchase of property and cash development incentives for multi-family homes along Alexander St. (TID No. 8)
• Consider redevelopment incentives and new Overlay Tax Increment District for E. Main St. (near TID No. 4) and TID No. 3 parcels

The Redevelopment Authority recommended a development agreement for the Merrill Social and Sick Benefit Society and approved a conditional funding reallocation for utility extensions on N. Poplar St.

• Recommended resolution for development agreement with Merrill Social and Sick Benefit Society (TID No. 8) (Carried)
• Approved reallocation of $35,000 TID No. 7 funding for N. Poplar St. utility extensions contingent upon actual housing construction plans (Carried)
• Approved January 19, 2021 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Entered closed session to discuss property purchases and incentives for Alexander Street and E. Main St. (7-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will discuss amending the city code to allow two non-residents on the Housing Authority board, review strategic plan goals, and consider creating a new Marketing & Communications committee and adjusting standing committee sizes.

• Consider ordinance amendment to allow two non-residents on Merrill Housing Authority board
• Review and discuss Strategic Plan issues and goals
• Discuss creation of new Standing Committee: Marketing & Communications
• Discuss amending composition of standing committees from three to four alderpersons

The Committee of the Whole discussed the city's Strategic Plan, including a proposed 'budget' ordinance and a possible garbage and recycling utility, but took no action. It voted to refer an ordinance allowing two non-residents on the Merrill Housing Authority to the March 9, 2021 Common Council meeting, and referred creation of a Marketing & Communications standing committee to its next meeting. A proposal to expand standing committees from three to four alderpersons was not discussed.

• Referred ordinance allowing two non-residents on the Merrill Housing Authority to the March 9, 2021 Common Council meeting (motion carried)
• Referred creation of a Marketing & Communications standing committee to the next Committee of the Whole meeting (motion carried)
• Took no action on Strategic Plan issues, including a proposed 'budget' ordinance and a possible garbage and recycling utility
• Did not discuss amending standing committee composition from three to four alderpersons; item moved to a future meeting
• Adjourned at 5:59 P.M. (motion carried)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will vote on several items, including approving a low bid for the Poplar Street & Court Street project, a $200,000 economic development loan for The Lofts at City Hall, and various ordinance amendments. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes, reports, and appointments.

• Approve low bid of $335,112.48 from Merrill Gravel & Construction Co. for M-2021-01 Project (Poplar Street & Court Street)
• Consider $200,000 Economic Development loan for The Lofts at City Hall, 713 East Second Street, 20 years at 2% annual rate, contingent on WHEDA grant
• Write off $626.77 over-collected Personal Property tax for former R-Store Merrill LLC (1001 N. Center Ave.)
• Ordinance amending alcohol beverage license fees for 2021-2022 license year
• Adopt Merrill Safe Routes to School Plan

The Common Council approved a low bid of $335,112.48 from Merrill Gravel & Construction Co. for the Poplar Street and Court Street project, and approved a $200,000 economic development loan for The Lofts at City Hall at 713 East Second Street. It also approved five ordinances, including one allowing two non-residents on the Merrill Area Housing Authority, and adopted a resolution petitioning for airport improvements. A resolution adopting the Safe Routes to School Plan was referred to the Health and Safety Committee.

• Approved low bid of $335,112.48 from Merrill Gravel & Construction Co. for Poplar Street & Court Street project
• Approved $200,000 economic development loan for The Lofts at City Hall, 713 East Second Street (20 years, 2% interest)
• Approved write-off of $626.77 over-collected 2020 Personal Property tax for former R-Store Merrill LLC
• Approved Ordinance #2021-02 amending alcohol beverage license fees for July 1, 2021–June 30, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance #2021-03 amending septic/holding tank and leachate rates (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance #2021-04 amending license and fee schedules for utilities (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance #2021-05 amending general water service unmetered rates (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance #2021-06 allowing two non-residents on Merrill Area Housing Authority, with amendment requiring Lincoln County residency and business ownership or employment in Merrill (7-1, Hass nay)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to approve minutes and claims, hear public comment, and discuss several park and recreation items. Key agenda items include considering the acceptance and placement of the T.B. Scott Mansion tower, discussing the Voyageur Heritage Waterways concept, reviewing a memorial idea for Charlie Phelps, and discussing a connector trail from River Bend Trail to Prairie Trails. The commission will also continue its discussion on Forestry Ordinance revisions.

• Consider acceptance and placement of T.B. Scott Mansion tower
• Discuss Voyageur Heritage Waterways concept
• Review and potentially approve memorial idea for the late Charlie Phelps
• Discuss connector trail from River Bend Trail to Prairie Trails
• Continued discussion on Forestry Ordinance revisions

The commission voted to accept the T.B. Scott Mansion Tower and designated its placement near the Agra Pavilion. Members also approved the Voyageur Heritage Waterways concept and renamed the ice arena area to honor Charlie Phelps.

• Accepted the T.B. Scott Mansion Tower (Unanimous)
• Placed T.B. Scott Mansion Tower by Riverbend Trail between the fishing pier and the overlook by the Agra Pavilion (Unanimous)
• Approved the Voyageur Heritage Waterways concept (Unanimous)
• Renamed the ice arena area the 'Charlie Phelps Memorial Ice Rink' (Unanimous)
• Approved February meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved February claims (Unanimous)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will review bids for the M-2021-01 project involving Poplar Street and Court Street. The board will also discuss lighting updates for Martin Street and East Tenth Street, as well as the city's ten-year capital plan and demolition policies.

• Bids for M-2021-01 Project (Poplar Street & Court Street)
• Martin Street lighting update
• East Tenth Street lighting
• Discussion of ten-year capital plan
• Discussion of demolition policies and procedures

The Board of Public Works approved a low bid for the Poplar Street and Court Street project and authorized new street lighting on Martin Street and East Tenth Street. Vouchers and monthly reports were also approved or placed on file.

• Approved $335,112.48 low bid from Merrill Gravel & Construction Co. for Poplar Street & Court Street project (Sent to Council)
• Approved installation of two lights on Martin Street and moving one light on O’Day Street
• Approved installation of three additional lights on East Tenth Street
• Approved vouchers
• Placed monthly reports on file

Joint Review Board

The Joint Review Board is meeting to review and consider approving amendments to Tax Incremental Districts No. 4 and No. 11, and the creation of Tax Incremental District No. 13. They will review planning documents, resolutions from the Redevelopment Authority and Common Council, and vote on resolutions for each action.

• Resolution approving TID No. 4 Project Plan Amendment
• Resolution approving TID No. 11 Project Plan Amendment
• Resolution approving TID No. 13 Creation
• Review of Ehlers Summary 2021 TID Actions
• Public comment period

The Joint Review Board approved three resolutions adopting project plans for Tax Incremental District No. 4, No. 11, and No. 13. The TID No. 4 amendment includes allowing tax increment sharing with TID No. 6, No. 7, No. 8, No. 9, and No. 10. The board also approved the January 19, 2021 meeting minutes and set a consensus to schedule the next annual meeting for July on Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. No public comment was offered.

• Approved January 19, 2021 meeting minutes (Weaver/Schwartzman, carried)
• Adopted Resolution 2021-01 approving TID No. 4 project plan amendment, including tax increment sharing with TID No. 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 (Schwartzman/Weaver, carried)
• Adopted Resolution 2021-02 approving TID No. 11 project plan amendment (Sample/Schwartzman, carried)
• Adopted Resolution 2021-03 approving creation of TID No. 13 (Schwartzman/Weaver, carried)
• Consensus to schedule next annual Joint Review Board meeting in July, Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m.; Unertl to coordinate via email in early June
• Adjourned at 4:40 P.M. (Schwartzman/Sample, carried)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider several items, including writing off a $626.77 over-collected personal property tax bill for former R-Store Merrill LLC, holding a surplus equipment auction, and lifting the hiring freeze to fill vacancies in the Street Department and a part-time City Hall custodian position. They will also review policies on after-hours call-in, sick time use, and discuss a city-wide audit.

• Write off $626.77 over-collected personal property tax for former R-Store Merrill LLC (1001 N. Center Ave.)
• Hold surplus equipment auction for Street Department equipment
• Lift hiring freeze to fill Street Department vacancy
• Lift hiring freeze to fill part-time City Hall custodian position
• Review Public Works after-hours call-in policy and sick time policy

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved lifting hiring freezes for the Street Department and a part-time City Hall custodian. The committee also amended the personnel manual to allow new employees to use accrued sick time before six months of service. A tax write-off for a former business was approved and sent to the City Council.

• Approved vouchers
• Approved $626.77 tax write-off for former R-Store Merrill LLC (sent to Council)
• Approved request to hold Surplus Equipment Auction for Street Department
• Approved lifting hiring freeze for Street Department vacancy
• Approved lifting hiring freeze for part-time City Hall custodian
• Approved amendment to Personnel Policies Manual (Section 12-3-2) allowing new employees to use accrued sick time before six months of service
• Placed monthly reports on file

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will receive COVID-19 reports, review nuisance complaints and vouchers, and consider a letter from Class B licensees requesting reduced beer/liquor license fees for 2021-2022 due to the pandemic's economic impact. Monthly reports from the fire chief, police chief, and humane society will also be presented and possibly filed.

• Consider letter from Class B licensees on beer/liquor license fees for 2021-2022
• COVID-19 reports
• Nuisance complaints and vouchers
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and Lincoln County Humane Society

The Health and Safety Committee approved a motion to decrease Class “B” and Class “B” license fees for the 2021-2022 year due to the economic impact of COVID-19. This recommendation was sent to the Common Council for final action. The committee also approved vouchers and placed monthly reports on file.

• Approved decreasing 2021-2022 Class “B” license fee from $100 to zero and Class “B” license fee from $500 to $50 (Sent to Council)
• Approved vouchers
• Placed monthly reports on file

Historic Preservation Committee

The Historic Preservation Committee will hold a preliminary hearing on nominating the T.B. Scott Mansion at 501 S. Center Avenue as a City of Merrill Historic Structure. The meeting includes public comment and scheduling the next meeting. This is a preliminary step in the designation process.

• Preliminary hearing on nomination of T.B. Scott Mansion, 501 S. Center Avenue, for City of Merrill Historic Structure designation
• Public comment period
• Set date, time, and location of next meeting

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee voted 3-2 to designate the T.B. Scott Mansion at 501 S. Center Avenue as a City of Merrill Historic Structure. The preliminary hearing drew extensive public comment regarding the property's history and active demolition status. The proposed designation moves next to the City Plan Commission for a public hearing on March 11, 2021.

• Approved designating the T.B. Scott Mansion at 501 S. Center Avenue as a City Historic Structure (3-2)
• Scheduled a joint sequence of meetings and a City Plan Commission public hearing for March 11, 2021

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is meeting to conduct a discussion regarding bus inspections. The agenda also includes a public comment period and the scheduling of the next meeting for March 15, 2021.

• Bus inspection discussion
• Public comment session

The Merrill Transit Commission met in a special session on February 22, 2021. Commissioners approved a motion to send Transit Administrator Brad Brummond to conduct a new bus inspection, a step recorded as saving $1,200.00 or more. The motion passed unanimously with no public comment. The next meeting was set for March 15 at the Transit Office in City Hall, 1004 E 1st St, Merrill, WI 54452.

• Approved sending Transit Administrator Brad Brummond for a new bus inspection, saving $1,200.00 or more (unanimous)
• Set next meeting for March 15 at the Transit Office in City Hall, 1004 E 1st St, Merrill, WI 54452
• Adjourned (unanimous)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will meet to discuss operations under COVID-19, including expo use and March offerings, alongside updates from the ADRC and the City Strategic Plan. The committee will also consider changing its regular meeting time.

• Discussion on changing time for MEC committee meetings
• Discussion on City Strategic Plan Issue #1 & #2 and MEC's role
• Update on COVID-19 operations, Expo use, and March offerings
• Approval of January meeting minutes and vouchers

The committee approved the January minutes and vouchers for December 2020 through January 2021. Members agreed to move the start time of future meetings to 2:15 p.m. beginning in March.

• Approved January minutes
• Approved Dec ‘20-Jan ‘21 vouchers
• Changed committee meeting start time to 2:15 p.m.

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is meeting to discuss airport operations, including the status of the Runway 16/34 project, T-hangar policies, and a fuel system credit card reader update. They will also consider alternatives to 100LL fuel and other maintenance items. The meeting includes approval of minutes, vouchers, and budget discussions.

• Runway 16/34 project status update
• Discussion of T-hangar written policies
• Update on fuel system credit card reader
• Discussion of alternative to 100LL fuel (Swift Fuel)
• Return of hangar deposit

The Merrill Airport Commission approved its January 2021 meeting minutes and voted to pay vouchers, both by unanimous voice votes. Most of the meeting was discussion: the Runway 16/34 project awaits an FAA meeting, a fuel credit card reader resolution will go to City Council in March, and T-hangar construction bidding will be arranged by the city engineer. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved January 2021 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Approved payment of vouchers (all ayes)
• Adjourned the meeting (all ayes)

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee will meet to elect a chairman and discuss local historic properties and structures. Key topics include considering the designation of the T.B. Scott Mansion as a historic structure and discussing the placement of plaques at 701 E. 1st Street and the city's oldest wood structure building. Members will also review updates on the cattle barn renovation at the festival grounds and the future of the American Legion building.

• Consider recommending the designation of T.B. Scott Mansion as a Historic Structure
• Consider purchase and placement of historic plaques at old fire station 701 E. 1st Street and the oldest wood structure building in the City
• Update on the renovation of the cattle barn at festival grounds
• Update on future of American Legion building by the Historical Society

The Historic Preservation Committee voted to hold a special meeting on February 19, 2021, with a public hearing, to consider designating the T.B. Scott Mansion as a historic site. The mansion's owner, Ascension, is involved in a hospital sale that could affect the building's future, and demolition is reportedly planned. The committee also elected Alderman Paul Russell as chairperson and approved amended minutes from its July 30, 2018 meeting. No decision was made on the designation itself; that will be considered at the February 19 hearing.

• Approved amended minutes of July 30, 2018 meeting (Russell/Sabatke, carried)
• Elected Alderman Paul Russell as Chairperson by voice vote
• Scheduled Historic Preservation Committee meeting for February 19 with public hearing on T.B. Scott Mansion historic designation (Sabatke/Thompson, carried)
• Set next regular meeting for February 22, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. (noted earlier motion set February 19)
• Adjourned at 7:02 P.M. (Thompson/Sabatke, carried)

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will meet to review the 2020 state and local annual reports. The board will also discuss library operations, including COVID-19 building closure updates and policies regarding patron records and after-hours facility use.

• 2020 State Annual Report
• 2020 Local Annual Report
• Policy review: Confidentiality of Patron Records
• Policy review: After Hours Use
• 3-5 Year Capital Plan Review

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved its 2020 State Annual Report, 2020 State Annual Report System Effectiveness Statement, and 2020 Local Annual Report (with a correction). It also approved paying $7,706.08 from the Endowment Fund for painting the grand staircase and skylight ceiling area, and approved two policies: Confidentiality of Patron Records (with one dissent) and After Hours Use. The board accepted January and updated December 2020 revenue and expense reports and approved the January Annual Meeting minutes.

• Approved January Annual Meeting minutes
• Accepted January Monthly Revenue and Expense Report
• Accepted updated December 2020 Monthly Revenue and Expense Report
• Approved 2020 State Annual Report System Effectiveness Statement
• Approved 2020 State Annual Report
• Approved 2020 Local Annual Report with correction of Board Vice-President on last page
• Approved Confidentiality of Patron Records policy (one dissent: Bebel)
• Approved After Hours Use policy

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is meeting to discuss routine administrative items including the January 2021 meeting minutes, a COVID-19 update, and the status of a new bus build, inspection, and delivery. The commission will also plan a celebration for 100 years of motor buses, scheduled for November 17, 2021, including potential advertisements, banners, and tokens.

• New bus build, inspection, and delivery update
• 100 years of motor buses celebration on November 17, 2021
• Discussion of celebration items: advertisements, banners, tokens
• Public comment period
• Approval of January 2021 meeting minutes

The Merrill Transit Commission approved January 2020 minutes and agreed to have First inspect new buses at a cost of $1,500 or less per bus. The administrator reported all transit employees who wanted the COVID-19 vaccine have had both shots, ridership is holding steady at 40 to 60 same-day rides, and new buses are scheduled for production March 12 and 15. The commission also discussed a 100-year motorbus anniversary and set the next meeting for March 15, 2021.

• Approved January 2020 minutes unanimously
• Approved having First inspect new buses at $1,500 or less per bus (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting unanimously
• Set next meeting for March 15, 2021 at Council Chambers, City Hall, 1004 E 1st St, Merrill, WI 54452

Fairgrounds Committee

The Merrill Festival Grounds Committee will review updates on the rodeo and fair, discuss the calendar of events, and hear reports from the Festival Grounds Manager and Permanent Vendor Representative. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

The City of Merrill Festival Grounds Committee voted to book all events listed on its calendar, with the motion carried. The Rodeo Association said it still hopes to hold a 2021 rodeo and would otherwise consider selling its equipment, while the Fair Association reported it is seeking more vendors and plans Monster Trucks on Sunday. City Administrator Johnson reported that additional Bierman Foundation funds were approved for remodeling the cattle barn. City Clerk Heideman said public comment should not be used to discuss items that belong on the agenda.

• Motion (Rick/Van Lieshout) to book all events listed on the calendar — Carried
• Motion (Caylor/Rick) to adjourn — Carried; adjourned at 6:41 P.M.
• Set next meeting: Thursday, April 8, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. in the Bierman Building

Community Development Committee

The Merrill Community Development Committee will meet to review April 23, 2020 meeting minutes and may take action on File#21001, an Economic Development loan request, following a closed session for personal financial data review.

• Consideration of File#21001 Economic Development loan request
• Closed session for personal financial data review under Wis. Statutes Sec. 19.85 (1) (f)

The Community Development Committee approved a loan for The Loft at City Hall. The funding is contingent upon the recipient receiving a WHEDA grant.

• Approved minutes of the previous meeting
• Approved loan up to $200,000 to The Loft at City Hall (File#21001) at 2% interest for 20 years, contingent on receipt of a WHEDA grant

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss strategic plan issues and goals, potential administrative changes, and committee structures. The agenda includes discussions on creating a new Marketing & Communications standing committee and changing the composition of standing committees from three to four alderpersons.

• Continue review and discussion of Strategic Plan issues and goals
• Discuss possible administrative changes
• Discuss creation of new Standing Committee: Marketing & Communications
• Discuss amending composition of standing committees from three alderpersons to four

The Committee of the Whole continued its review of Strategic Plan goals, focusing on housing and administrative changes. Members discussed creating affordable housing and agreed the Redevelopment Authority and committee should hold a joint meeting, with Council Chair Russell leading planning. A plan for possible administrative changes was included in the meeting packet, and members disagreed over whether the mayor should be able to fire administration. Two agenda items on new committees were not discussed due to time constraints, and no public comment was taken.

• No formal votes or approvals were recorded; the meeting was discussion-only
• Agreed RDA and Committee of the Whole should hold a joint meeting on affordable housing, led by Council Chair Russell
• Discussed possible administrative changes; Alderperson Hass disagreed with the mayor being able to fire administration
• Alderperson Sabatke suggested reviewing state statute on forms of government before deciding
• Creation of a Marketing & Communications standing committee not discussed due to time constraints
• Amending standing committee composition from three to four alderpersons not discussed due to time constraints
• No time taken for public comment
• Meeting adjourned without objection at 6:04 pm

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet to approve routine minutes, revenue reports, and employee recognitions. Key decisions include purchasing two side-loader trucks for $526,108, approving liquor licenses, and advancing housing and redevelopment ordinances and resolutions.

• Approve $526,108 purchase of two Envirotech side-loader trucks for Public Works
• Amend ordinance to allow two non-residents on Merrill Area Housing Authority
• Approve Class B liquor license for 2501 West Main Street (CR & KM Enterprise, LLC)
• Approve Preliminary Plat for Rock Ridge Park single-family development at Grand Avenue & Edgewater Drive
• Create new Tax Increment District No. 13 and approve Development Agreement with Denyon Homes Inc. and Ryan Ott Development

The Common Council approved a $526,108 purchase of two automated side loader trucks from Envirotech on a 7-1 vote. It also approved amendments to the project plans for Tax Increment Districts No. 4 and No. 11, and created Tax Increment District No. 13 as an industrial district; the TID 11 and TID 13 votes were 4-4 ties broken by Mayor Woellner. A development agreement with Denyon Homes Inc. and Ryan Ott Development and Construction, LLC for up to ten single-family homes was approved, along with a special assessment resolution for sidewalk and street projects. An ordinance allowing two non-residents on the Housing Authority was referred to the next Committee of the Whole meeting.

• Approved $526,108 Envirotech proposal for two New Way/Sidewinder trucks (7-1, Sabatke nay)
• Approved Resolution #2669 final intent to levy special assessments for sidewalk and street projects
• Approved Resolution #2670 amending TID No. 4 project plan (6-2, Osness and Sabatke nay)
• Approved Resolution #2671 amending TID No. 11 project plan (4-4 tie broken by Mayor Woellner)
• Approved Resolution #2672 creating industrial Tax Increment District No. 13 (4-4 tie broken by Mayor Woellner)
• Approved Resolution #2673 development agreement with Denyon Homes Inc. and Ryan Ott Development and Construction, LLC
• Approved Resolution #2674 releasing easement at Highland Drive and Edgewater Drive
• Approved Resolution #2675 preliminary plat for Rock Ridge Park single-family subdivision

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to approve minutes and claims, and discuss several items including a Safe Routes to School resolution, a 10-year capital plan, forestry ordinance revisions, ice time extension at Smith Center, and summer recreation plans. The meeting is open to the public with phone and online access.

• Review and approve Safe Routes to School Resolution
• Continued discussion on 10-year Capital Plan
• Begin discussion on review and revision of Forestry Ordinances
• Continued discussion on potential extension of ice time in Smith Center
• Discuss summer recreation plans

The commission approved the 10-year Capital Plan, which now includes the Curling Center and a new Skate Park. Members also approved the January meeting minutes and January claims.

• Approved 10 Year Capital Plan (unanimous)
• Approved January claims (unanimous)
• Approved January meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on a preliminary plat for a single-family residential development called Rock Ridge Park, located at the intersection of Grand Avenue, Edgewater Drive, and Rock Ridge Court. The commission will also receive an oral report from the Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator on Certified Survey Maps.

• Public hearing on preliminary plat for Rock Ridge Park single-family residential development
• Oral report from Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator Pagel on Certified Survey Maps

The City Plan Commission approved a preliminary plat for a single-family residential development at the intersection of Grand Avenue, Edgewater Drive, and Rock Ridge Court. The approved plat was sent to the City Council.

• Approved minutes from December 1, 2020 meeting
• Approved Preliminary Plat for Rock Ridge Park residential development and sent to Council

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee is holding a special meeting to consider recommendations to the Common Council on a Safe Routes to School Plan and on reopening City facilities. They will also discuss progress on transforming the committee into a Public Safety/Board of Public Health. A public comment period is included.

• Consider recommendation on Safe Routes to School Plan
• Consider recommendation on opening City facilities
• Discuss transformation into Public Safety/Board of Public Health

The Health and Safety Committee approved the Safe Routes to School plan as presented and referred its recommendation to the Common Council, where it would be considered as a resolution. The committee took no action on reopening City facilities, agreeing more information was needed; the Mayor holds ultimate authority on that matter. The committee also took no action on transforming itself into a Public Safety/Board of Public Health, with members saying further research is needed.

• Approved Safe Routes to School plan as presented and referred recommendation to Common Council (motion Blake/Weix)
• No action taken on opening City facilities; more information expected next week
• No action taken on transforming Health and Safety Committee into Public Safety/Board of Public Health
• Adjourned at 6:02 P.M. (motion Blake/Weix, carried)

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will meet remotely on January 27, 2021, to review vouchers, hear an appeal for a $316.50 lawn-mowing charge on N. Cleveland, and discuss automated garbage proposals, Martin Street lighting, and 2021 exterior maintenance. Public hearings will cover a city-wide sidewalk inspection program and reconstructions of N. Poplar and N. Court Streets.

• Appeal from Lukas Tallier for $316.50 lawn-mowing charges at 204 N. Cleveland
• Public Hearing on city-wide sidewalk inspection program
• Public Hearing on Reconstruction of N. Poplar Street from East Second to East Fourth Street
• Public Hearing on reconstruction of N. Court Street from East Second to East Fourth Street
• Consider merging City Water & Sewer Committee with Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works voted unanimously to forward the New Way/Sidewinder automated side loader truck bid to the Common Council with a recommendation to purchase. The board also approved installing two additional street lights on Martin Street per city recommendation, approved special assessments and forwarded them to the Common Council, and voted to merge the Board of Public Works and Water & Sewer Committees. The board approved vouchers after questions from Aldermen Sabatke and Rick, and confirmed that the Lukas Tallier assessment stands.

• Forwarded New Way/Sidewinder automated side loader truck bid to Common Council with recommendation to purchase (unanimous)
• Approved installing 2 additional street lights on Martin Street per city recommendation (carried)
• Approved special assessments and forwarded to Common Council (carried)
• Merged Board of Public Works and Water & Sewer Committees (unanimous)
• Approved vouchers (motion carried, none opposed)
• Tallier assessment stands (no vote recorded)
• Directed staff to pursue 6th and East property and survey gap at Harrison & Genesee (no vote recorded)

Water & Sewage Disposal Committee

The Water & Sewage Disposal Committee will discuss manganese levels, consider changing the grease trap ordinance due date, review a utility extension request at 9th & Poplar, and discuss waiving alternate parking on Pine Street north of Main St during winter. They will also review November and December vouchers and receive an operations report.

• Discussion on manganese
• Discussion & recommendation on changing the due date on the Grease Trap Ordinance
• Consider request for utility extension on 9th & Poplar
• Discussion on waiving alternate parking on Pine Street north of Main St during winter rules
• November and December vouchers

The committee extended the grease trap ordinance due date to August 1. It also referred a water and sewer extension request at 9th & Poplar to the RDA and sent a Pine St. parking matter to the Health and Safety committee.

• Approved vouchers (Rick/Weix)
• Grease trap ordinance due date changed from March 1 to August 1 (Rick/Weix)
• Forwarded 9th & Poplar water and sewer extension request to RDA (Weix/Rick)
• Referred Pine St. parking to Health and Safety committee (Rick/Weix)
• Accepted monthly report (Rick/Weix)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee is meeting virtually to discuss and potentially recommend action on hiring Limited Term Employees, a vehicle policy for the Facilities Maintenance Manager, preliminary 2020 fiscal reports, and a succession plan for city leadership. They will also consider establishing a marketing/communications committee, seniority in non-union departments, termination procedures, and ambulance transfers outside the service area. Monthly reports from city staff will be reviewed and possibly filed.

• Discussion and potential recommendation on hiring Limited Term Employees (referred from Dec 29, 2020)
• Review vehicle policy for Facilities Maintenance Manager (requested by Alderman Osness)
• Review Preliminary 2020 Fiscal Reports
• Discussion on succession plan for Merrill's leadership
• Discussion on establishing new committee for marketing and communication functions

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved city vouchers and confirmed existing policies regarding the hiring of Limited Term Employees. Several other items, including city vehicle audits, fiscal reports, and departmental seniority policies, were discussed but resulted in no formal action.

• Approved city vouchers
• Approved policies for Limited Term Employees
• Placed monthly reports on file

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will meet on January 25, 2021, to discuss COVID-19 reports, nuisance complaints, and the potential reopening of City Hall and other city facilities. The agenda also includes reviewing alcohol license applications, parking control on N. Pine Street, and ambulance transfer services.

• Change of Agent application for Express Lane #2328 at 702 North Center Avenue naming Sheri R. Myers
• Class "B" beer and "Class B" liquor license application for 1-900 at 2501 West Main Street by CR & KM Enterprise, LLC
• Review of existing liquor license for Allen Shidell for El Mariachi at 608 East Second Street
• Discussion on parking control in the 100 block of N. Pine Street
• Discussion on reopening City Hall and other City facilities

The Health and Safety Committee approved vouchers and forwarded two license applications to the Common Council. It voted to instruct Allen Shidell to open El Mariachi within 60 days or face revocation of his beer and liquor licenses. No action was taken on parking control on N. Pine Street, reopening City Hall, or ambulance transfers outside the service area.

• Approved Fire Department vouchers and corrected vouchers
• Approved change of agent naming Sheri R. Myers for Express Lane #2328, 702 North Center Avenue; sent to Council (next 2/9/2021)
• Approved Class "B" beer and "Class B" liquor license for CR & KM Enterprise, LLC, 2501 West Main Street, effective February 10, 2021; sent to Council (next 2/9/2021)
• Instructed Allen Shidell to open El Mariachi within 60 days or face revocation of his beer and liquor licenses
• No action on parking control in the 100 block of N. Pine Street
• No action on reopening City Hall and other City facilities
• No action on ambulance transfers outside the service area
• Approved December 28, 2020 minutes; placed monthly reports on file

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is meeting to review the final 2020 budget, discuss COVID-19 operations and a new opening plan, and receive updates from the ADRC. They will also recap holiday events, discuss outreach and event planning, and consider the center's contribution to the city's strategic plan.

• Final 2020 budget review
• COVID-19 operations update and new opening plan review
• ADRC updates
• Thanksgiving and Christmas Joy recap
• Lincoln County Cares Outreach discussion

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved its October minutes and November-December 2020 vouchers, both by unanimous voice votes with no tally recorded. The Director reported that the MEC returned $2,575.66 to the City General Fund for 2020, less than the original $11,766 request, which the committee and Director were concerned about; COVID-related payroll savings were cited as the reason. The committee reviewed the January 2021 reopening plan allowing small-scale fitness classes and activities, and discussed the May 1 Spring Craft Show, with member Bebel expressing concern it may be too soon. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved October minutes (motion by Bebel, second by Akey; carried)
• Approved Nov-Dec 2020 vouchers (motion by Akey, second by Harvey; carried)
• Adjourned (motion by Bebel, second by Harvey)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is meeting to approve minutes and vouchers, discuss the 2021 budget, and review the status of the Runway 16/34 project. They will also discuss airport and T-hangar policies, decide on a fuel system credit card reader, and consider a hangar deposit return.

• Discussion of 2021 budgets
• Runway 16/34 project status
• Decision on fuel system credit card reader
• Discussion of T-hangar project and policies
• Approve return of hangar deposit

The commission approved using an 80/20 state aid program to fund a new point-of-sale system for the fuel system. Members also approved the payment of vouchers and the return of a hangar deposit. Discussions were held regarding the Runway 16/34 project and T-hangar funding.

• Approved payment of vouchers
• Approved 80/20 state aid funding for POS fuel system credit card reader
• Approved $500.00 hangar deposit return to Doug Droust
• Approved December 2020 meeting minutes

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will meet to conduct its annual election of officers and review library operations. The board will discuss the 2020 Endowment Fund report, the library's strategic plan, and updates regarding COVID-19 building closures and services.

• Election of Board Officers
• 2020 Endowment Fund Report
• Review of December 16, 2020 meeting minutes
• Update on COVID-19 building closure and curbside pickup
• Strategic Plan progress review

The Board of Trustees re-elected its incumbent officers for 2021 and approved the December meeting minutes, the December Revenue & Expense Report, and the 2020 Endowment Fund Report. Members also discussed the library's ongoing closure and curbside-only service, advising leadership to evaluate a potential reopening before February 1st based on health department guidance.

• Re-elected Mike Geisler (President), Tim Meehean (VP), and Richard Mamer (Sec)
• Approved December meeting minutes
• Approved December Revenue & Expense Report
• Approved 2020 Endowment Fund Report
• Consensus reached to evaluate reopening before February 1st

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will hold public hearings on the proposed creation of Tax Incremental District No. 13 and amendments to the project plans for TIDs 4 and 11. Following the hearings, the board will consider resolutions to approve the new district's boundaries and plan, approve the amendments, and authorize a development agreement with Denyon Homes Inc. and Ryan Ott Development and Construction, LLC for TID 11.

• Public hearing on creation of Tax Incremental District No. 13
• Public hearings on amendments to Tax Incremental District No. 4 and No. 11 project plans
• Resolution to designate boundaries and approve project plan for TID 13
• Resolution to approve project plan amendments for TID 4 and TID 11
• Resolution authorizing development agreement with Denyon Homes Inc. and Ryan Ott Development and Construction, LLC (TID 11)

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority recommended creating Tax Incremental District No. 13 on a 4-2 roll call vote, and recommended plan amendments for TID No. 4 (6-0) and TID No. 11 (5-1). It also recommended a development agreement with Denyon Homes Inc. and Ryan Ott Development and Construction LLC for ten additional single-family homes in TID No. 11 (6-0). A motion to table creation of TID No. 13 failed 2-4. The recommendations now go to the Common Council; the RDA itself does not make the final decision.

• Recommended resolution creating TID No. 13 (4-2 roll call)
• Motion to table creation of TID No. 13 failed (2-4 roll call)
• Recommended TID No. 4 project plan amendment (6-0 roll call)
• Recommended TID No. 11 project plan amendment (5-1 roll call)
• Recommended development agreement with Denyon Homes Inc. and Ryan Ott Development and Construction LLC for TID No. 11 (6-0)
• Approved December 2, 2020 meeting minutes (carried)
• Opened and closed public hearings on the TID plans; no public comments (carried)
• Adjourned at 7:16 p.m. (carried)

Joint Review Board

The Joint Review Board is meeting to appoint or reaffirm its public member, elect a chairperson, and discuss its responsibilities. The main agenda items are reviewing project plans for the creation of TID 13 and amendments to TID 4 and TID 11. The meeting is virtual and open to the public.

• Appointment/reaffirmation of public member Ryan Schwartzman
• Election of chairperson
• Review of TID 13 creation project plan
• Review of TID 4 amendment project plan
• Review of TID 11 amendment project plan

The Joint Review Board reconfirmed Ryan Schwartzman as public member and elected Mayor Derek Woellner as chairperson. Brian Reilly of Ehlers & Associates presented an overview of Tax Increment District proposals, including changes to TID No. 4 and No. 11 and the creation of TID No. 13. No formal decisions on the TID plans were made; the board agreed to meet again on Tuesday, February 23rd at 4:30 p.m. The Redevelopment Authority was scheduled to hold a public hearing on the TID plans later that day, and the Common Council is set to act on RDA recommendations on February 9th.

• Reconfirmed Ryan Schwartzman as Public Member (motion carried)
• Elected Derek Woellner as Chairperson (motion carried)
• Consensus to hold next Joint Review Board meeting on Tuesday, February 23rd at 4:30 p.m.
• Adjourned at 5:03 p.m. (motion carried)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving prior meeting minutes and receiving the administrator's report. The report covers a COVID-19 update, plans for a 100-year motor bus celebration in November 2021, and a fourth-quarter review for 2020. No major decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Approve minutes of September 2020 meeting
• COVID-19 update for transit operations
• Discussion of 100 years of motor buses celebration on November 17, 2021, including possible advertisements, banners, and free rides
• Fourth Quarter Review for 2020

The Merrill Transit Commission approved the minutes of its December 14, 2020 meeting unanimously. The administrator reported that all Transit employees who wanted a COVID-19 vaccine received a first dose on January 11, 2021, with boosters scheduled for February 4, 2021, and that fourth-quarter 2020 ridership was down about 52%. The next meeting is set for February 15, 2021 at the Council Chambers in City Hall, 1004 E 1st St, Merrill, WI 54452.

• Approved December 14, 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole is meeting to review and discuss Strategic Plan Issue #1, which focuses on how the city can increase its tax base. This is a discussion item, not a final decision, and no other substantive business is on the agenda.

• Discussion on increasing the city's tax base (Strategic Plan Issue #1)

The committee reviewed the city's strategic plan, focusing on ways to increase the tax base. Discussions included 2021 events at the Festival Grounds, the future of the T.B. Scott Mansion, and status reports on annexations and business expansions.

• Adjourned meeting at 5:56 PM

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet to decide on several items, including approving a liquor license for West Side Bar, writing off $3,167.93 in over-collected taxes for the Merrill Area Housing Authority, and preparing a referendum on fluoride removal from city water. The council will also review committee recommendations on a hiring freeze, water utility rate assistance, and ordinance amendments.

• Approve Class B liquor license for West Side Bar at 2501 West Main Street
• Write off $3,167.93 in over-collected 2020 real estate taxes for Merrill Area Housing Authority
• Prepare referendum on fluoride removal from city water for next election
• Extend hiring freeze with exemptions for Police, Fire, and Library Departments
• Approve contracting with Trilogy, LLC for water utility rate assistance

The Common Council approved a resolution to shift public fire protection costs to direct customer charges and authorized a hiring freeze extension. Council members also approved a final plat for the Champagne Park subdivision and participation in the WIWARN mutual aid program. Several other items, including a proposed ordinance on committee legislation and a fluoride referendum, were tabled or failed to pass.

• Approved resolution to eliminate municipal fire protection charge (Res #2665)
• Approved final plat for Champagne Park subdivision (Res #2666)
• Authorized participation in WIWARN mutual aid program (Res #2667)
• Approved $3,167.93 tax bill write-off for Merrill Area Housing Authority
• Approved hiring freeze extension with specific department exemptions
• Approved contract with Trilogy, LLC for water utility rate assistance
• Approved Class B liquor license for West Side Bar
• Tabled ordinance regarding non-resident appointments to Housing Authority

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss community development and strategic planning, timetables for reopening City Hall and other facilities, proposals for city restructure, leadership succession, restructuring of committees and commissions, and garbage collection program issues. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Discussion of City leadership and communication
• Consider timetables for reopening City Hall and other City facilities
• Proposals for City Restructure
• Plan of succession for Merrill's leadership
• Garbage collection program kick-off issues

The Merrill Committee of the Whole held an orientation/training session on Jan. 8, 2021. The main action was a 5-4 roll call vote (Rick/Osness) to open all city facilities on Wednesday, January 13th. Members also discussed a strategic plan, city restructuring proposals, a leadership succession plan, and garbage/recycling program start-up issues; most items were discussion only, with the succession plan referred to Personnel and Finance. The minutes note no video was available to verify the meeting.

• Approved motion (Rick/Osness) to open all city facilities Wednesday, January 13th (5-4 roll call vote)
• Referred the leadership succession plan to Personnel and Finance
• Adjourned (Russell/Osness), motion carried; meeting adjourned at 2:00 PM

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss the 2021 budget, begin discussions on the 2022 and 10-year capital budget, and continue discussions regarding COVID-19. The commission will also consider potentially extending ice at the Smith Center by a few weeks in the spring.

• Summary of 2021 budget
• Begin discussion on 2022 and 10 year capital budget
• Discuss potentially extending Smith Center ice by a few weeks in spring
• Approve claims and previous meeting minutes

The commission approved the minutes from the November meeting and claims from December. Members discussed the 2021 budget, the 10-year capital budget, and the potential extension of ice at the Smith Center.

• Approved November meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved December claims (unanimous)