Merrill public meetings in 2023

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several operational items, including the status of the Runway 16/34 project, fuel farm maintenance issues, and the acquisition of a Jet A fuel truck. They will also consider signing an updated Airport Manager/FBO contract and discuss a potential STOL competition. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes and vouchers.

• Runway 16/34 project status update
• Discussion/decision on fuel farm maintenance and parts
• Discussion/decision on Jet A fuel truck acquisition
• Sign updated Airport Manager/FBO contract
• Acquire used box snow blade for tractor

The Merrill Airport Commission approved replacing fuel farm hoses and related equipment, to be billed in the 2023 fiscal year budget at under the estimated cost of $8,000. The commission also signed the Airport Manager/FBO contract, approved meeting minutes and vouchers, and gave approval to continue investigating a potential STOL competition in July 2025. No other substantive decisions were made; several items were discussed or deferred for more information.

• Approved fuel farm hose and equipment replacement under $8,000 (all ayes)
• Signed Airport Manager/FBO contract (all members)
• Approved November 15, 2023 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Approved payment of vouchers (all ayes)
• Approved continued investigation of STOL competition (all members)

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting, taking action on two social media policies and discussing updates on the youth services renovation, long-range plan survey, and possible closure for flooring replacement.

• Action on Social Media Policy
• Action on Customer-Facing Social Media Policy
• Discussion: MSR Design Youth Services Renovation Update
• Discussion: Circulation Area Flooring Replacement/Possible Library Closure
• Discussion: 2024-2028 Long Range Plan Survey Update

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved two social media policies at its December 20, 2023 meeting. The board also accepted the November financial and statistical reports and approved the prior meeting's minutes. No other formal decisions were made; other items were updates or discussions.

• Approved minutes of November 15, 2023 meeting
• Accepted November 2023 Unaudited Revenue and Expense Report
• Accepted November 2023 Monthly Statistical Report
• Approved Social Media Policy
• Approved Customer-Facing Social Media Policy

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is meeting to approve November minutes, hear the administrator's report on ridership, employee status, the Tour of Lights, and recruitment, and set future agenda items. The next meeting is scheduled for January 29, 2023.

• Approve minutes of November 2023 regular meeting
• Administrator's report on ridership, employee status, Tour of Lights, and recruitment
• Next meeting date set for January 29, 2023 at 4:00 p.m.

The Transit Commission met and approved the November 2023 minutes and the administrator's report, both unanimously. The report noted steady ridership, a retirement, a passed budget, and a successful Tour of Lights. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Approved November 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved administrator's report (unanimous)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will consider the city administrator's employment agreement and approve adjustments to 2024 utility service fees. The council will also vote on several alcohol beverage licenses, a temporary picnic license, and ordinances amending septic/holding tank rates and election procedures. Resolutions supporting a building renovation at 419 W Main Street and a development agreement with Winds and Paradox, Inc. are on the agenda.

• Employment agreement for City Administrator/Public Works Director/City Engineer
• 2024 Utility Service Fee adjustments
• Alcohol license for Nimrods LLC, 2501 W Main St
• Alcohol license for Clark All Aboard, LLC, 315 E 2nd St
• Resolution supporting WEDC funds for renovation at 419 W Main Street

The Common Council approved two resolutions supporting Winds & Paradox, Inc.'s renovation of 419 West Main Street, including a development agreement with an $80,000 TID No. 8 cash incentive. The council also adopted ordinances amending septic/holding tank rates and election procedures, and approved the City Administrator's employment agreement with a zoning/building inspector addition.

• Approved development agreement with Winds & Paradox for $80,000 TID No. 8 incentive (Fermanich recused)
• Adopted ordinance amending septic/holding tank and leachate rate (7-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending Chapter 2, Article III, Section 2-56 Elections (7-0)
• Approved City Administrator/Public Works Director/City Engineer employment agreement with zoning/building inspector addition
• Approved 2024 Utility Service Fees
• Approved alcohol beverage licenses for Nimrods LLC and Clark All Aboard, LLC
• Approved temporary picnic license for Merrill Youth Softball Association (Jan 13, 2024 at MARC)
• Approved Mayor's appointments including Gary Schwartz to Tourism Commission

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Commission will discuss the final 2024 budget update and receive updates on Lincoln County ARPA requests. Members will also consider names for a connector trail linking Prairie Trails to River Bend Trail.

• Final 2024 budget update
• Lincoln County ARPA requests updates
• Naming of connector trail between Prairie Trails and River Bend Trail

The commission approved the minutes from the November meeting and the November claims. Staff provided updates on the 2024 budget and pending Lincoln County ARPA requests.

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

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will consider approving a development agreement with Wendorf Construction LLC for residential development in TID No. 7. The board will also receive updates on grant efforts for the Mathias Building rehabilitation at 419 W Main St, 2023 tax increment generation, and approved 2024 TID budgets. A closed session is scheduled to discuss potential development incentives for the Mathias Building at 410 W Main St.

• Resolution authorizing development agreement with Wendorf Construction LLC for residential development (TID No. 7)
• Update on potential grants for Mathias Building rehabilitation (419 W Main St, TID No. 8)
• Update on 2023 Tax Increment generation and historical trends
• Review of approved 2024 TID budgets
• Closed session to negotiate potential TID development incentives for 410 W Main St (Mathias Building, TID No. 8)

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority recommended a development agreement with Winds and Paradox, Inc. for the Mathias Building (419 W. Main St.) with a total cash incentive of $80,000, split into two $40,000 payments. It also recommended submitting a $200,000 WEDC Community Development Investment grant application and authorized a letter of support for a HUD grant application. A development agreement with Wendorf Construction LLC was discussed but not approved, pending revisions.

• Recommended development agreement with Winds and Paradox, Inc. with $80,000 cash incentive (carried)
• Recommended resolution for WEDC Community Development Investment grant submission (carried)
• Authorized City letter of support for Federal HUD grant application (carried)
• Approved minutes from November 1, 2023 (carried)
• Moved into closed session to negotiate TID incentives (6-0)
• Reconvened in open session (carried)

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on a request by Brian Lee to rezone 100 N Polk Street from Public to Business under M.M.C. Sec. 113.428. The commission will also consider placing the minutes from the November 7, 2023 meeting on file. Public comment will be accepted.

• Public hearing on rezoning 100 N Polk Street from Public to Business
• Request by Brian Lee, 100 N Polk Street, PIN 251-3106-141-0050
• Consider placing November 7, 2023 meeting minutes on file

The City Plan Commission tabled a rezoning request for a proposed museum after it was revealed that construction had occurred without a permit. The commission ordered all activity to cease until a permit is granted. The request can be resubmitted with more information.

• Approved minutes from November 7th meeting
• Opened and closed public hearing on rezoning request
• Tabled rezoning request for proposed museum
• Ordered all activity to cease until rezoning permit granted

Health and Safety Committee

The committee will consider several alcohol beverage license applications and a temporary picnic license. Members will also review nuisance complaints, vouchers, and monthly reports from city safety officials.

• Alcohol beverage license application for Nimrods LLC, 2501 W Main St
• Alcohol beverage license application for Clark All Aboard LLC, 315 E 2nd St
• Temporary picnic license for Merrill Youth Softball Association for January 13, 2024
• Change of agent for Krist Oil Co. (Krist Food Mart #88), 105 S Center Avenue
• Review of nuisance complaints and vouchers

The committee approved two alcohol beverage license applications and one temporary picnic license. A change of agent for Krist Oil Co was also approved. Vouchers were not included in the packet and were deferred to January 2024.

• Approved change of agent for Krist Oil Co to Dana Wojciechowski
• Approved alcohol beverage license for Nimrods LLC, 2501 W Main St
• Approved alcohol beverage license for Clark All Aboard LLC, 315 E 2nd St
• Approved temporary picnic license for Merrill Youth Softball Association
• Placed October 23, 2023 meeting minutes on file
• Placed monthly reports from Fire Chief, Police Chief, and Lincoln County Humane Society on file

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is meeting to approve October minutes and hear the administrator's report on ridership, employee status, budget, the Tour of Lights, and recruitment. No votes on specific policies or contracts are listed; the agenda is largely routine oversight.

• Approve minutes of October 2023 regular meeting
• Administrator's report on ridership, employee status, budget, Tour of Lights, recruitment
• Next meeting set for December 18, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. at City Hall

The Transit Commission met on November 20, 2023, and unanimously approved the minutes of the September 2023 regular meeting and the administrator's report. The report noted steady ridership, ongoing staffing shortages, a passed budget that includes a fourth full-time position if needed, and the Tour of Lights event scheduled for December 13, 2023. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved September 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved administrator's report (unanimous)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is meeting to discuss operational updates and upcoming holiday events. The body will review policies for the Fall Craft & Market Event and follow up on budget and public service charges.

• Fall Craft & Market Event Policy/Registration review
• Budget and Public Service Charges follow-up
• First Endowment Donation
• Thanksgiving Meal and Christmas Joy planning
• Health Fair discussion

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved the October minutes and Oct/Nov vouchers, and discussed a revised vendor policy for the Fall Craft & Market, adding language allowing the MEC to decline items deemed unacceptable. The committee also discussed fee structures and potential revenue needs, with the Finance Director estimating a need for $9,000 annually in additional contributions over the next three years. No formal action was taken on fees or the Angel Fund, which was not pursued.

• Approved October 2023 minutes (motion by Bebel, second by Meyer)
• Approved Oct/Nov 2023 vouchers (motion by Meyer, second by Bebel)
• Discussed revised vendor policy for Fall Craft & Market, adding language: 'The MEC can decline to accept or allow any items if such display are deemed unacceptable in the best interest of the Center.'
• No action taken on fee increases or Angel Fund; Angel Fund not pursued

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will discuss the acquisition of fuel farm maintenance parts and a Jet A fuel truck. The body is also scheduled to sign an updated Airport Manager/FBO contract.

• Decision on acquisition of fuel farm maintenance parts
• Signing of updated Airport Manager/FBO contract
• Decision on Jet A fuel truck
• Purchase of used box snow blade for tractor
• Status update on Runway 16/34 Project

The Merrill Airport Commission met on November 15, 2023, and approved vouchers. They discussed the FAA's justification process for crosswind runways, noting that 15 Wisconsin airports may lose funding. The commission also reviewed several projects, including grass planting delayed to spring, a fuel farm repair rebid, and a potential state grant for airport improvements.

• Approved vouchers (motion by Malsack, seconded by Wiex, passed)
• Discussed FAA crosswind runway justification; 15 Wisconsin airports at risk of losing funding
• Grass planting for entitlement projects delayed to spring; final payment after completion
• Fuel farm repairs to be rebid by M&M; awaiting estimate
• Airport Manager/FBO contract status uncertain; no one confirmed signed
• Jet A fuel truck discussion deferred due to Rich's absence
• F-84 Monument update deferred due to Rich's absence and Allen Haus's deployment
• Reviewed garage door quotes; moving garage estimated $8,000, concrete $7,000; offset by $15,000 reimbursement

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting, covering consent items like October minutes and financial reports. Action items include adopting board bylaws, purging dormant accounts with fees over $5, and a Youth Services Endowment Fund request, followed by discussion on a youth services renovation and long-range planning.

• Action: Library Board Bylaws
• Action: Purge Dormant Accounts with Fees Over $5
• Action: Youth Services Endowment Fund Request
• Discussion: MSR Design Youth Services Renovation Update
• Discussion: 2024-2028 Long Range Plan Survey Update

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved the Library Board Bylaws, a request to purge dormant accounts with fines over $5, and a Youth Services Endowment Fund request of up to $1,000 per year for the Little Bluebirds early literacy program. The board also received updates on the youth services design, community survey, and adjacent church property. No public comment was made.

• Approved Library Board Bylaws (unanimous)
• Approved purge of dormant accounts with fines over $5 (unanimous)
• Approved Youth Services Endowment Fund request up to $1,000/year for Little Bluebirds (unanimous)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Merrill Marketing & Communications Committee will review and likely approve the final draft of a wedding planner advertisement and discuss options for the city’s Visitor’s Guide. Updates on winter and spring events, including the Tour of Lights and Food Truck-a-palooza, will also be presented.

• Approve final draft of wedding planner ad
• Consider Visitor’s Guide options with Foto News
• Update on Tour of Lights (December 13, 2023)
• Update on Food Truck-a-palooza (May 18, 2024)
• Monthly report from Social Media Specialist Savall

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved the final draft of a wedding planner ad and selected Visitor's Guide options. The committee also reviewed updates for the Tour of Lights and Food Truck-a-palooza.

• Approved final draft of wedding planner ad with added URL
• Approved Visitor's Guide options
• Approved October 19th meeting minutes
• Placed Social Media Specialist reports on file

Common Council

The Common Council will conduct a public hearing and consider an ordinance to adopt the 2024 budget and establish the 2023 tax levy. The body will also review various utility budgets and a change to sewer service charges.

• Public hearing and adoption of the 2024 City Budget and 2023 Tax Levy
• Midwest Communications marketing agreement of $29,808
• Conditional Use Permit for Wisconsin Public Service at N1936 Sunset Drive
• Ordinance amending Chapter 38, Division 2, Section 38-149 Sewer Service Charges
• Proposal to lift the hiring freeze for a Street Department administrative assistant

The Common Council adopted the 2024 City of Merrill Budget and established the tax levy for 2023 on a 7-0 roll call vote. The council also approved a sewer service charge ordinance amendment, lifted the hiring freeze for a Street Department administrative assistant, and approved a new Finance Director. Two motions to cut budget items (parking lot repaving and a Fire Department administrative assistant) died for lack of a second.

• Adopted 2024 budget and tax levy ordinance (7-0)
• Amended sewer service charges ordinance (7-0)
• Lifted hiring freeze to replace Street Department administrative assistant (6-1)
• Approved candidate for Finance Director (voice vote)
• Approved high bids for city-owned property (voice vote)
• Approved Midwest Communications marketing agreement of $29,808 (6-1)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Wisconsin Public Service (voice vote)
• Changed agent for S&S Bar to James Helman (voice vote)

Tourism Commission

The Merrill Tourism Commission will meet to review its 2024 budget and discuss grant applications. The meeting is open to public comment and will set the date for the next session.

• Review 2024 Budget
• 2024 grant application discussion

The Tourism Commission approved the 2024 Tourism Budget of $103,750.00 and decided to keep the Lincoln County Fair grant at $16,000. No public comment was made, and the meeting adjourned at 3:43 PM.

• Approved 2024 Tourism Budget of $103,750.00
• Kept Lincoln County Fair grant at $16,000

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a conditional use request from Wisconsin Public Service Corporation for a telecommunications tower at N1936 Sunset Drive. The meeting will also approve minutes from the August 1, 2023 meeting and allow public comment.

• Public hearing on telecommunications tower at N1936 Sunset Drive (Conditional Use per M.M.C. Sec. 113-290)
• Consider approval of minutes from August 1, 2023 meeting

The City Plan Commission approved a request from Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) for a tower lease, with the condition that Common Council approval is required before WPS can enter into a lease agreement with any third party for space on the tower. The request will be forwarded to the November 14th Common Council meeting. The meeting also included approval of the previous meeting's minutes and no public comment.

• Approved minutes from August 1st meeting
• Opened and closed public hearing for WPS tower request
• Approved WPS tower lease request with condition requiring Common Council approval for third-party subleases
• Forwarded request to November 14th Common Council meeting

Tourism Commission

The Merrill Tourism Commission will meet to review and vote on the 2024 budget, discuss a 2024 grant application, and set the date for the next meeting. The meeting is open to the public at the Merrill Area Chamber of Commerce.

• Review and approval of 2024 budget
• Discussion of 2024 grant application
• Set date/time for next meeting

The Tourism Commission reviewed the 2024 budget and grant applications but could not vote on them because two members recused themselves due to involvement with the Lincoln County Fair, leaving insufficient voting members. The commission tabled the budget and grants until a future meeting, to be held no later than November 15, 2024. They discussed several grant requests, suggesting amounts for some, but no final approvals were made.

• Tabled 2024 budget and grant approvals until next meeting (motion carried)
• Approved minutes from last meeting as written (motion carried)
• Discussed grant requests: Sled Dogs ($400 suggested), Lion's Car Show ($1200 suggested), Lincoln County Fair (amount TBD), Wisconsin Pro Rodeo ($16,000 suggested), Merrill Concertina ($450), Underdown Trail Ride ($850), Black Squirrel Scurry ($1,000), Underdown Fat Bike Races ($250), Ice Drags ($4,000)
• Denied Carry the Cross grant due to lack of plan and late application
• Adjourned at 1:38pm (motion carried)

Fairgrounds Committee

The Festival Grounds Committee is holding a regular meeting to consider minutes, receive updates on the fair, rodeo, and permanent vendors, and discuss promoting the grounds, including a food truck event scheduled for May 18, 2024. The agenda is largely routine, with no major decisions or financial actions listed.

• Consider placing September 7, 2023 minutes on file
• Fair update
• Rodeo update
• Permanent vendor update
• Discussion on promoting Festival Grounds, including Food Truck event May 18, 2024

The committee approved the September minutes and filed the Festival Grounds Manager's monthly report. No substantive policy decisions were made; the main discussion was an update on the May 18, 2024 food truck event, including 20 vendors contacted and a cornhole tournament promoter secured.

• Approved minutes from September 7 meeting (unanimous)
• Filed Festival Grounds Manager monthly report (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to discuss the 2024 budget and a specific trail extension. The body will also review claims and monthly reports.

• Discussion of River Bend trail extension from Wastewater Treatment Plant to Bluebird Lane
• Update on 2024 budget
• Approval of claims

The Parks and Recreation Commission unanimously approved the October meeting minutes and October claims, noting expected savings of $10,000-$12,000 from removing park dumpsters. They discussed the 2024 budget, which is expected to pass unchanged, and the River Bend trail extension, which may use crushed gravel instead of paving due to flood plain concerns. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 4:45 p.m.

• Approved October meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October claims (unanimous)

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will consider approving a development agreement with Wendorf Construction LLC for residential development in TID No. 7, and will receive updates on several redevelopment projects, including the Mathias Building, the Hwy G industrial park, and Cedar Corp. site grants. The board will also review 2024 TID budget requests and may enter closed session to negotiate incentives and land sale terms.

• Resolution authorizing development agreement with Wendorf Construction LLC for residential development (E 10th St & Spruce St, TID No. 7)
• Update on redevelopment plans for Mathias Building (419 W Main St, TID No. 8)
• Update on real estate listing for Lincoln County Hwy G industrial/business park (TID No. 13)
• Update on Cedar Corp. site development grant opportunities (401 Keyes St, TID No. 9)
• Review of 2024 Tax Increment District (TID) budget requests

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority approved a motion to authorize the City of Merrill as a pass-through agent for potential federal and state grant funding for the redevelopment of the Mathias Building at 419 W. Main St. The board also accepted an offer to purchase for a city-owned vacant site at Pine Ridge Plaza with a six-month due diligence period. A development agreement with Wendorf Construction for residential development in TID No. 7 was deferred to the December meeting. The board reviewed preliminary 2024 TID budgets, noting corrections and planned infrastructure improvements.

• Approved minutes from October 4, 2023
• Authorized City as pass-through for federal/state grants for Mathias Building redevelopment (carried)
• Accepted offer to purchase for Pine Ridge Plaza vacant site with six-month due diligence period (carried)
• Deferred Wendorf Construction development agreement to December meeting
• Moved into closed session to discuss TID incentives and land sale (7-0)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will meet to review monthly reports and approve vouchers for water, sewer, and street departments. Members will discuss infrastructure plans and property bids.

• Asphalt plans for the storage facility at 1601 S Hwy K
• Bids for city owned property
• Snow removal from 101 N Polk St from January 2023
• Water & Sewer vouchers
• Street Department vouchers

The Board of Public Works approved vouchers for water, sewer, and street departments. It accepted high bids for city-owned properties to be forwarded to the Common Council and denied a request to reduce a snow removal fee.

• Approved Water and Sewer vouchers
• Approved Street Department vouchers
• Extended asphalt plans request for 1601 S Hwy K until June 15, 2024
• Accepted high bids for city owned properties and forwarded to Common Council
• Denied reduction of $300.00 shoveling fee for 101 N Polk Street

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to review the overall 2024 budget and the proposed 2023 tax levy, and will consider operational budget requests for the General Fund and Tax Incremental Districts (TIDs). Public comment is scheduled. No final decisions are made at this meeting; it is a discussion and consideration session.

• Update on overall 2024 Budget and proposed 2023 Tax Levy
• Consideration of General Fund – Tax Levy 2024 Operational Budget requests
• Consideration of Tax Incremental Districts (TIDs) 2024 Budget requests

The Committee of the Whole reviewed the 2024 operational budget and made several adjustments. They approved cuts to economic development funding, reduced Historical Society support, and shifted funds between marketing categories. A proposal to reduce Humane Society funding failed. The committee also discussed delaying 2023 borrowing until early 2024 and anticipated a 2.5% tax rate increase.

• Increased Mayor's office supply budget to $300 and reduced mileage to $100 (7-0)
• Removed $3,200 from Merrill Area Development Corporation (MADC) (7-0)
• Removed $12,500 from Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation (LCEDC) marketing request (7-0)
• Increased Social Media contractor budget by $6,500 and decreased Marketing contractor budget by $6,500 (7-0)
• Reduced Historical Society funding from $7,000 to $5,000 (6-1, Weix no)
• Failed to reduce Humane Society funding from $15,000 to $9,000 (2-5)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider approving September vouchers, receive updates on the 2024 budget and EMS flex grant purchases, and review monthly reports from city officials. The committee may also enter closed session to discuss a Finance Director candidate and collective bargaining with fire and police unions, with potential action afterward.

• Consider approving September vouchers
• Update on 2024 Budget
• Update on EMS flex Grant purchases
• Closed session to discuss Finance Director candidate
• Closed session on fire and police union collective bargaining

The Personnel & Finance Committee approved the September vouchers and placed monthly reports on file. In closed session, the committee voted to forward a candidate for the Finance Director position to the November Common Council meeting with a start date of January 2, 2024. The committee also received updates on fire and police union collective bargaining status but took no action. The meeting adjourned from closed session without reconvening in open.

• Approved minutes from September 26th meeting
• Approved September vouchers
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Forwarded Finance Director candidate to November Common Council meeting with start date of January 2, 2024 (2-0 roll call)
• Entered closed session for Finance Director candidate discussion and union bargaining updates (2-0 roll call)

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will meet to approve minutes from the previous meeting, discuss nuisance complaints and vouchers, and hear updates from the Fire and Police Chiefs. The committee will also consider a change of agent for a local bar and receive a tornado siren update from the Police Chief.

• Approve minutes from September 25th meeting
• Discuss and approve nuisance complaints and vouchers
• Update and discussion on tornado sirens led by Police Chief Bennett
• Consider change of agent for S&S Bar (1603 E 1st Street, Merrill) to James Helman
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug and Police Chief Bennett

The Health and Safety Committee approved a change of agent for S&S Bar to James Helman, with the address corrected to 418 Grand Avenue. They also approved vouchers and placed minutes and monthly reports on file. A discussion on tornado sirens suggested a radio trigger upgrade costing $2,000-$3,000, but no action was taken.

• Approved change of agent for S&S Bar to James Helman (unanimous)
• Approved vouchers (unanimous)
• Placed September 25, 2023 minutes on file (unanimous)
• Placed monthly reports from Fire and Police Chiefs on file (unanimous)

Police and Fire Commission

The Merrill Police and Fire Commission will discuss current staffing levels and hiring processes for police and review the 2023 Battalion Chief promotional list for the fire department. The meeting includes public comment and a closed session for police officer candidate interviews.

• Approve 2023 Battalion Chief promotional list (Fire Chief Klug)
• Discussion on current employment levels and hiring process (Police Chief Bennett)
• Closed session for Police Officer candidate interviews (Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 19.85(1)(b))

The Commission approved an updated fire department promotional candidate list valid until 10/24/2025 (3-3 vote, with Chairman Hanson absent). It also approved two police officer candidates for hiring eligibility at the discretion of Chief Bennett (4-4 vote) after closed-session interviews. The police department is currently short one officer, and the application period was extended three times.

• Approved updated fire promotional candidate list, valid until 10/24/2025 (3-3)
• Approved two police candidates for hiring eligibility at Chief Bennett's discretion (4-4)
• Approved minutes from October 12, 2022
• Convened closed session for police candidate interviews
• Reconvened in open session to recommend applicant approvals

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will discuss and decide on several marketing proposals, including an extended proposal from Midwest Communications, a rental ad draft for the Expo Center, and a final street banner design. The committee will also review monthly reports and updates on social media and online marketing dashboards.

• Review extended Midwest Communications marketing proposal
• Approve final street banner design
• Discuss 2024 Visitor's Guide ad concept
• Consider LCEDC Marketing Merrill funding request
• Review Social Media Specialist Savall's monthly report

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved a $29,803 extended marketing proposal from Midwest Communications, forwarding it to the Common Council for final approval. They also approved the final street banner design and denied a funding request from the Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation (LCEDC), with a possible review in one year. Other items, such as the wedding planner ad and 2024 Visitor's Guide concept, were discussed without action.

• Approved $29,803 extended Midwest Communications proposal (motion carried)
• Approved final street banner design (motion carried)
• Denied LCEDC marketing funding request, possible review in one year (motion carried)
• Approved September 21 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion carried)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will meet to discuss operational updates and budget. The body will also review recaps of the Open House and Fall Craft & Market Event.

• Approval of Sept/Oct ‘23 vouchers
• Newsletter ad costs
• Budget review
• Thanksgiving Meal planning
• Open House and Fall Craft & Market Event recaps

The committee approved the September minutes and vouchers, and discussed plans for a health fair in early 2024. They also reviewed the success of the Fall Craft & Market, noted concerns about vulgar items, and agreed to explore stricter vendor policies. No formal votes were taken on these discussions.

• Approved September 2023 minutes (motion by Bebel, second by Meyer)
• Approved Sept/Oct 2023 vouchers (motion by Meyer, second by Bebel)
• Agreed to pursue a health fair at MEC in Q1 2024, pending partner availability
• Discussed revising vendor application to enforce policy against vulgar items

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will meet on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at 6:00 PM at the Merrill Airport Terminal. Voting members will review project updates, consider a fuel farm maintenance decision, and sign an updated Airport Manager/FBO contract. The agenda also includes discussions on a Jet A fuel truck, snow blade acquisition, and T-Hangar lease rates.

• Discussion and decision on fuel farm maintenance, issues, and parts
• Signing of updated Airport Manager/FBO contract
• Discussion and decision on a Jet A fuel truck
• Acquisition of a used box snow blade for the tractor
• Discussion regarding T-Hangar lease rates

Historic Preservation Committee

The Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to discuss updates on historic home and building preservation efforts, including a storyboard update for the Legion Building and a virtual tour. They will also discuss and potentially approve the application form and process for 2024 historic street naming, along with sign placement and media coverage.

• Legion Building storyboard update
• Virtual historic home/building tour update with Hallie Savall and Merrill Community Media
• Coordination with AAC member Mike Ravn
• Discussion and approval of application form for 2024 historic street naming

The committee approved the application form and process for 2024 historic street nominations, with applications due by March 31, 2024, and review in April. They also discussed updates on the Legion Building storyboard, virtual home tour, and sign dedications, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved September 20, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved 2024 historic street nomination application form and process
• Set application deadline for March 31, 2024
• Scheduled application review for April 2024 meeting

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will consider updates to the Standard of Conduct for Library Patrons policy and the Public Use of Meeting Rooms policy. They will also discuss the youth services renovation, the 2024-2028 long range plan survey, endowment fund donations, and strategic plan goals.

• Action item: Standard of Conduct for Library Patrons policy review
• Action item: Public Use of Meeting Rooms policy
• Discussion: MSR Design Youth Services Renovation update
• Discussion: 2024-2028 Long Range Plan survey update
• Discussion: Endowment Fund donations and updated brochure

The Board approved revisions to the Standard of Conduct for Library Patrons and the Public Use of Meeting Rooms policy. Members reviewed a schematic design for the Youth Services Activity/Meeting Room and received an update on the 2024-2028 Long Range Plan Community Survey.

• Approved Standard of Conduct for Library Patrons Policy (Carried)
• Approved Public Use of Meeting Rooms policy revisions (Carried)
• Approved September 20, 2023 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Accepted September 2023 Unaudited Revenue and Expense Report (Carried)
• Accepted September 2023 Monthly Statistical Report (Carried)

Committee of the Whole

The committee is meeting for a budget session to review 2024 requests for city funds and utilities. Members will discuss tax levy operations and capital investments.

• Potential 2.5% Sewer Rate adjustments for 2024 through 2028
• 2024 Budget Request for Sewer Utility
• 2024 Budget Request for Water Utility
• 2024 Budget Request for Landfill Remediation
• 2024 Capital Budget Requests for Utility, Infrastructure, and City Capital

The Committee of the Whole approved a 2.5% annual sewer rate adjustment for 2024-2028 and increased the police vehicle capital request by $8,000 to $48,000 for a truck instead of an SUV. Several 2024 budget requests were discussed without additional action, and the next budget meeting was set for October 24.

• Approved 2.5% sewer rate adjustment for 2024-2028
• Increased police vehicle request by $8,000 to $48,000 for a truck (7-1, Sabatke no)
• Approved minutes from September 26 meeting
• Set next budget meeting for October 24 at 6:30 PM

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is scheduled to meet on October 16, 2023, to discuss transit operations. The agenda includes the administrator's report on ridership, employee status, and the third-quarter report. Commissioners will also discuss employee restructuring for coverage plans, the budget, and Tomahawk Bus Service.

• Administrator's Report on Ridership, Employee Status, and 3rd Quarter report
• Restructure Employee to maintain coverage Plans
• Budget
• Tomahawk Bus Service

The Transit Commission unanimously approved the September 2023 minutes and the administrator's report, which noted steady ridership averaging 185 per day and ongoing staffing shortages. Discussions were held on restructuring employees to maintain coverage and on the fiscal impact of adding a fourth full-time driver, but no decisions were made on these items.

• Approved September 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved administrator's report (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet on October 11, 2023, to discuss and vote on the 2024 Bierman Family Aquatic Center budget, receive a 2024 budget update, and continue discussions on potential approval of Lincoln County ARPA projects. The meeting will also include routine approvals, public comment, and a park tour.

• Review and approve 2024 Bierman Family Aquatic Center Budget
• 2024 budget update
• Continued discussion and potential approval of Lincoln County ARPA projects
• Approve claims
• Approve minutes from previous meeting

The Parks and Recreation Commission unanimously approved the 2024 Bierman Family Aquatic Center budget and the September minutes and claims. They also voted to submit a list of ARPA-funded projects (items 2-5 plus Nicklaus Bridge repairs) to the County Administrator with a rough total value of $402,000. The 2024 general budget was discussed but not voted on, with only 4 of 8 requested items advancing.

• Approved September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September claims (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 Bierman Family Aquatic Center budget (unanimous)
• Approved submitting ARPA projects 2-5 plus Nicklaus Bridge repairs to County Administrator, rough total $402,000 (unanimous)

Common Council

The Common Council will review funding for the Spruce Street extension for the 2024 budget. The body is also considering several temporary and permanent alcohol licenses and a stormwater coalition agreement.

• Spruce Street extension funding for the 2024 budget
• Alcohol beverage license for Gesundheit Saloon, LLC at 1300 E Main Street
• Temporary picnic license for Merrill Chamber of Commerce at 303 N Sales St
• Temporary picnic license for Merrill Historical Society at 100 E 3rd St
• Northcentral Wisconsin Stormwater Coalition Cooperative Agreement

The Common Council approved a resolution authorizing the city to join the Northcentral Wisconsin Stormwater Coalition cooperative agreement, and approved Spruce Street extension funding for the 2024 budget. Several licenses were approved, including a picnic license for the Chamber of Commerce, a temporary picnic license for the Merrill Historical Society, and an alcohol beverage license for Gesundheit Saloon. The council also re-appointed Lyle Banser to the Airport Commission and Nancy Kwiesielewicz to the Merrill Housing Authority.

• Approved resolution for Northcentral Wisconsin Stormwater Coalition cooperative agreement
• Approved Spruce Street extension funding for 2024 budget
• Approved Class B picnic license for Merrill Chamber of Commerce (Oct 12, 2023)
• Approved temporary Class B picnic license for Merrill Historical Society (Nov 4, 2023)
• Approved alcohol beverage license for Gesundheit Saloon, LLC, 1300 E Main Street
• Re-appointed Lyle Banser to Airport Commission
• Re-appointed Nancy Kwiesielewicz to Merrill Housing Authority
• Approved September 2023 revenue and expense reports

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority (RDA) holds its regular meeting to review 2023 property valuations, discuss residential development updates, and continue planning for the redevelopment of the corner of W Main St and S Prospect St (TID No. 8). The RDA also introduces new commissioners and reviews preliminary 2024 TID budget requests.

• Review of 2023 Equalized Valuations for the City of Merrill
• Continued discussion on redevelopment of 403 W Main St and S Prospect St (TID No. 8)
• Introduction of new RDA Commissioner Gary Hartwig and LCEDC Executive Director Elsa Duranceau
• Review of preliminary 2024 Tax Increment District (TID) budget requests
• Potential closed session to discuss TID No. 7 (N. Center Ave. area) development incentives

The Redevelopment Authority recommended funding for a new public parking lot in TID No. 8 and a street extension in TID No. 7. A request for marketing funds was referred to the Marketing & Communications Committee.

• Approved August 2, 2023 meeting minutes
• Recommended $60,000 for new City Public Parking Lot in 2024 TID No. 8 budget
• Referred $40,000 marketing funding request to Marketing & Communications Committee
• Recommended $600,000 in 2024 TID No. 7 budget for Spruce St. extension, contingent on a development agreement

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will review vouchers for the Street Department and Water & Sewer departments. Members will also discuss a request from Northcentral Technical College regarding access to Taylor Street from Champagne Drive for its CDL program.

• Request from Northcentral Technical College for access to Taylor Street from Champagne Drive for the CDL program
• Approval of Water & Sewer vouchers
• Approval of Street Department vouchers

The Board of Public Works approved a 6-month permit allowing NTC to use Taylor Street from Champagne Street for truck traffic for training and occasional use, with signage stating 'for training purposes only'. The board also approved routine vouchers for water/sewer and street departments, and placed monthly reports on file.

• Approved August 30, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved water and sewer vouchers
• Approved street department vouchers
• Approved NTC truck access to Taylor St from Champagne St for 6 months (training only)
• Placed monthly reports on file

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will hold a budget session to receive the 2022 audit report, hear a TID borrowing update, and discuss 2024 capital budget requests across utility, infrastructure, and city capital categories.

• Consider approving July 11 meeting minutes
• Presentation of 2022 Audit Reports by Jon Trautman (CLA)
• TID report and borrowing update by Brian Reilly (Ehlers)
• 2024 Capital budget requests: Utility, Infrastructure Investments, City Capital

The Committee of the Whole reviewed the 2024 capital budget and made several cuts. They removed the Gebert Park Roads project, the public address system, and the power project north of the grand stand at the Festival Grounds. The library carpet request was reduced from $125,000 to $5,350, and most other capital requests were eliminated except for specific items like Ott's Park boat landing and dock. IT requests were approved except for voice gateways.

• Removed Gebert Park Roads project from 2024 budget (8-1)
• Removed public address system from capital budget (8-1)
• Removed power project north of grand stand at Festival Grounds (4-4, mayor's no vote broke tie)
• Reduced library carpet request from $125,000 to $5,350
• Kept Ott's Park boat landing/dock, Riverside Park dock, Nicholas Bridge, Smith Center and AGRA Pavilion table/chairs; eliminated rest
• Approved IT requests except voice gateways (5-4)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider approving August vouchers, discuss winter on-call rotation for the Street Department, and consider email marketing for recruiting a Finance Director. They will also receive updates on WPS utilities and monthly reports from city officials.

• Consider approving August vouchers
• Winter on-call rotation in the Street Department
• Email marketing for Finance Director recruitment
• WPS Electric and Natural Gas 60-day update
• Monthly reports from Mayor, Finance Director, City Attorney, City Clerk, and Municipal Court

The Personnel & Finance Committee approved August vouchers and the previous meeting's minutes. It forwarded a proposal for winter on-call rotation in the Street Department to the next budget meeting for consideration, and referred a discussion on email marketing for Finance Director recruitment to the October meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved August vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved August 30th meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Forwarded winter on-call rotation proposal to next budget meeting (unanimous)
• Referred email marketing for Finance Director recruitment to October meeting (unanimous)

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will review the Administrative Battalion Chief position with Fire Chief Klug, consider temporary picnic licenses for two events, and discuss an alcohol beverage license for a local business. They will also handle nuisance complaints, vouchers, and monthly reports from the fire chief, police chief, and humane society.

• Discussion and review of Administrative Battalion Chief position
• Temporary Class B picnic license for Merrill Chamber of Commerce, Oct 12, at Expo Center, 303 N Sales St
• Temporary Class B picnic license for Merrill Historical Society, Nov 4, at 100 E 3rd St
• Alcohol beverage license for Gesundheit Saloon LLC, 1300 E Main Street
• Consider placing minutes and monthly reports on file

The Health and Safety Committee tabled discussion of the Administrative Battalion Chief position on a 2/1 vote, with Chair Weix voting no. It approved temporary picnic licenses for the Merrill Chamber of Commerce and Merrill Historical Society, an alcohol beverage license for Gesundheit Saloon LLC, and vouchers. Minutes from August 28 were revised to remove a sentence about volunteer pay.

• Tabled Administrative Battalion Chief position discussion (2-1)
• Approved temporary Class B picnic license for Merrill Chamber of Commerce (Oct 12, 2023)
• Approved temporary Class B picnic license for Merrill Historical Society (Nov 4, 2023)
• Approved alcohol beverage license for Gesundheit Saloon LLC
• Approved vouchers
• Approved revised August 28 minutes

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will review costs and content for the 2024 Visitor's Guide. Members will also consider marketing options and pricing from Midwest Communications and discuss WEDC Talent Marketing Grant applications.

• 2024 Visitor's Guide costs and deadlines
• Midwest Communications radio, OTT, YouTube, and email marketing options
• WEDC Talent Marketing Grant applications
• Social Media Specialist monthly report

The Marketing & Communications Committee discussed the 2024 Visitor's Guide, deciding to have a draft ready for the October meeting. They also reviewed additional Midwest Communications marketing options but deferred a decision until October, and discussed the WEDC Talent Marketing Grant without further action. Monthly reports were filed.

• Approved August 24th meeting minutes
• Decided to have a draft of the 2024 Visitor's Guide at the October meeting
• Deferred decision on additional Midwest Communications marketing options until October
• Placed monthly reports on file

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will hold a regular meeting to approve prior meeting minutes and vouchers, discuss operations including new offerings and an endowment policy review, and receive updates from the ADRC. The meeting is procedural with no major decisions expected.

• Approval of August 2023 meeting minutes
• Approval of August/September 2023 vouchers
• Review of endowment policy
• Discussion of October offerings and budget

The committee approved the Endowment Fund Policy with suggested changes, including adding 'MEC' before 'Endowment' for consistency. The director will report on funds as they come in, with official reporting at year-end. The committee also discussed the initial budget draft, expressing concerns about the amount requested to give back to the city, which could deplete the account within four years if it continues to exceed income.

• Approved August '23 minutes (motion by Bebel, second by Meyer)
• Approved Aug/Sept '23 vouchers (motion by Meyer, second by Harvey)
• Approved Endowment Fund Policy with suggested changes (motion by Bebel, second by Tlusty)

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission is meeting to discuss the acquisition of a garage for airport residence and updates to the Airport Manager/FBO contract. The body will also consider a land lease for a 100x100 hangar south of the terminal.

• Acquisition of garage for airport residence
• Airport Manager/FBO contract update
• Land lease for 100x100 hangar south of terminal
• Runway 16/34 project status
• Status of house sewer replacement

The Merrill Airport Commission approved a preconstruction agreement for a 100x100 hangar south of the Terminal, accepted the Airport Manager/FBO contract with seven-day-a-week self-serve fuel services, and approved moving a city garage to the airport residence for $7,000. All motions passed unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were informational updates.

• Approved minutes from August 16, 2023 (all ayes)
• Approved vouchers (all ayes)
• Approved moving city garage to airport residence for $7,000 (all ayes)
• Accepted Airport Manager/FBO contract with seven-day-a-week self-serve fuel (all ayes)
• Approved preconstruction of 100x100 hangar south of Terminal (all ayes)

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee will review the August 9th meeting minutes and discuss historic homes and buildings, including the Legion Building. They will also consider signage for Normal Park and coordinate with the AAC on a virtual historic tour and next steps.

• Discussion on Legion Building
• Update on virtual historic home/building tour
• Consider signage for Normal Park
• Coordination with AAC member Mike Ravn
• Discussion on sign placement schedule and media coverage

The Historic Preservation Committee approved a motion to nominate Don Litzer to form a committee of one and return in spring 2024 with a sign/storyboard draft for Normal Park. They also approved the August minutes, laid over an AAC coordination item to October, and discussed updates on historic home tours and sign dedications.

• Approved August 9, 2023 minutes (motion carried)
• Laid over AAC coordination discussion to October meeting (motion carried)
• Approved nominating Don Litzer to form a committee of one for Normal Park sign/storyboard draft (motion carried)

Library Board

The T. B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will meet to vote on authorized users for the Endowment Fund and a funding request for a mural. The board will also discuss a collaboration with the Merrill Historical Society and the 2024-2028 Long Range Plan.

• Action item: Endowment Fund Financial Account Authorized Users
• Action item: Endowment Fund request for Post Card Mural by Tom Lambrecht Art & Design, LLC
• Discussion item: Merrill Historical Society Collaboration
• Discussion item: 2024-2028 Long Range Plan Library Visit Report

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved a $1,565 endowment-funded post card mural for the library entrance and authorized Richard A. Mamer or Michael V. Geisler as signers on all financial accounts. They also accepted the minutes, financial and statistical reports, and discussed collaboration with the Merrill Historical Society on digitizing materials. No public comment was made.

• Approved authorization for Richard A. Mamer or Michael V. Geisler as signers on all financial accounts (unanimous)
• Approved $1,565 Endowment Fund request for post card mural at library entrance (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 16, 2023 regular meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted monthly Unaudited Revenue and Expense Report for August 2023 (unanimous)
• Accepted Monthly Statistical Report for August 2023 (unanimous)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will meet to approve August minutes, hear the administrator's report on ridership and employee status, and discuss restructuring an employee to maintain coverage plans. The budget will also be reviewed. This is a routine administrative meeting with no major public decisions expected.

• Approve minutes of August 2023 regular and special meetings
• Administrator's report on ridership and employee status
• Discussion of employee restructuring to maintain coverage
• Budget review

The Merrill Transit Commission approved the August 2023 meeting minutes and the Transit Administrator's report by unanimous vote. The commission discussed options for restructuring employee coverage and adding a fourth full-time driver to the budget, but no decisions were made on these items. The meeting also included introductions for new member Jill Weber and set the next meeting date.

• Approved August 2023 regular and special meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Transit Administrator's report (unanimous)
• Discussed restructuring employees to maintain coverage (no action taken)
• Discussed adding 4th full-time driver to budget (no action taken)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Common Council

The Common Council will consider the rebidding of 503 Wisconsin St. and review changes to the Parks & Recreation Department fee schedule. The body will also vote on several liquor licenses and a DNR grant application.

• Rebidding of 503 Wisconsin St. including rehabilitation plans
• Parks & Recreation Department fee schedule and proposed changes
• Class B liquor license for SmokeHouse TX BBQ LLC at 722 E 2nd Street
• Temporary class B picnic license for Merrill Historical Society at 303 N Sales Street
• Resolution for Wisconsin DNR Wisconsin Assessment Monies (WAM) Program application

The Common Council approved a resolution authorizing the City to apply for Wisconsin DNR Wisconsin Assessment Monies (WAM) program funding for the brownfield property at 401 Kyes St. The council also approved a temporary picnic license for the Merrill Historical Society, a change of agent for Kwik Trip, a Class B beer license for SmokeHouse TX BBQ, a parks fee schedule, and the rebidding of 503 Wisconsin St. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved resolution to apply for DNR WAM program for 401 Kyes St. (unanimous)
• Approved temporary Class B picnic license for Merrill Historical Society on Sept 23 (unanimous)
• Approved rebidding 503 Wisconsin St with no minimum bid (unanimous)
• Approved change of agent for Kwik Trip Store #386 to Holly Hilgart (unanimous)
• Approved Class B beer license for SmokeHouse TX BBQ LLC, 722 E 2nd St (unanimous)
• Approved Parks & Recreation fee schedule and proposed changes (unanimous)
• Approved appointments of Gary Hartwig to RDA and Jill Weber to Transit Commission (unanimous)

Fairgrounds Committee

The Merrill Festival Grounds Committee will discuss updates on the fair, rodeo, and permanent vendors, review the calendar of events, and consider capital improvements for the grounds to forward to the budget. Monthly reports from the Festival Grounds Manager will also be placed on file.

• Review Fair Update
• Review Rodeo Update
• Review Permanent Vendor Update
• Discuss capital improvements for Festival Grounds

The committee identified electrical updates as the top priority for capital improvements, followed by fans. Mayor Hass and PWDCE Akey will create a formal list of improvements for the budget. The committee also received updates on the fair, rodeo, and permanent vendors.

• Approved August 3rd meeting minutes
• Prioritized electrical updates as the first capital improvement
• Prioritized fans as the second capital improvement
• Placed Festival Grounds Manager's monthly report on file

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to review and approve the 2024 fees, capital requests, and operating budget, and to continue discussing potential camping at a park location. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes, claims, and monthly reports.

• Review & approve 2024 fees
• Review & approve 2024 capital requests
• Review & approve 2024 operating budget
• Continued discussion on potential camping at a park location
• Approve claims

The commission unanimously approved the 2024 fees, capital requests with a priority list, and the 2024 operating budget with two adjustments. They also discussed potential camping at park locations, requesting cost estimates for the October meeting. No public comments were made.

• Approved August meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved August claims (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 fees as presented (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 capital requests and priority list (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 operating budget with $1,000 added to education/conference and $500 to advertisement (unanimous)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works is meeting to approve minutes and vouchers, discuss a 2025 capital project for a sewer vac truck, and review monthly reports. They will also consider a Natural Lawn Permit for Golden Harvest and snow removal at 710 Pier Street.

• Discussion and approval of Water & Sewer vouchers
• 2025 Capital Project: Sewer Vac Truck
• Natural Lawn Permit for Golden Harvest
• Snow removal at 710 Pier Street
• Monthly reports from Building Inspector, Public Works Director, Street Superintendent, and Street & Weed Commissioner

The Board of Public Works approved forwarding the 2025 capital request for a sewer vac truck to the budget meeting, with funding from the replacement fund and the current truck to be traded or sold. They also reduced the snow removal fee for 710 Pier Street to $150 and added it to property taxes. The Natural Lawn Permit for Golden Harvest was discussed but no action was taken pending more information.

• Approved July 26, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved water and sewer vouchers
• Approved 2025 sewer vac truck capital request, forwarded to budget meeting
• Approved street department vouchers
• Reduced 710 Pier Street snow removal fee to $150, added to property taxes
• Placed monthly reports on file

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will meet to approve July vouchers and minutes from the previous meeting. They will also discuss and consider several items, including a revised Finance Director job description, 2024 budget status, accumulated sick leave payable at retirement, and an employee volunteer day. Additionally, they will consider writing off a $312.66 personal property tax bill for Tara Inn Inc due to a change in ownership.

• Approve July vouchers
• Write off $312.66 personal property tax bill for Tara Inn Inc
• Review revised Finance Director job description
• Discuss 2024 budget status
• Consider employee volunteer day

The Personnel & Finance Committee approved July vouchers and the previous meeting's minutes. It also approved writing off a $312.66 personal property tax bill for Tara Inn Inc. and tabled a proposal for an employee volunteer day. Budget discussions continued with future meeting dates set.

• Approved July vouchers
• Approved July 25th meeting minutes
• Approved writing off $312.66 personal property tax for Tara Inn Inc.
• Tabled employee volunteer day request
• Placed monthly reports on file

Transit Commission

The meeting agenda consists primarily of procedural boilerplate. The commission will review the Administrator's report on employee status and may enter a closed session to discuss personnel issues.

• Administrator's report on employee status
• Potential closed session regarding Transit Department personnel issues

The Transit Commission held a special meeting on August 30, 2023, and unanimously approved a motion to refer the rest of the agenda to the October meeting and go into closed session. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned after the closed session.

• Referred remaining agenda to October meeting and entered closed session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will review nuisance complaints and vouchers. Members will consider a liquor license application and an agent change for a local business. The committee will also discuss a strategic planning proposal for the Merrill Fire Department.

• Class 'B' (beer only) liquor license for Casa Amigo's at 722 E 2nd St
• Agent change for Kwik Trip store #386 at 2311 E Main St to Holly Hilgart
• Strategic Planning proposal for Merrill Fire Department
• Review of nuisance complaints and vouchers

The Health and Safety Committee approved a Class 'B' beer-only liquor license for Casa Amigo's at 722 E 2nd St. and forwarded it to the Common Council. It also approved an agent change for Kwik Trip Store #386 and approved routine vouchers and monthly reports. A strategic planning proposal for the Fire Department was discussed but no action was taken.

• Approved Class 'B' liquor license for Casa Amigo's, forwarded to Common Council
• Approved agent change for Kwik Trip Store #386
• Approved vouchers
• Approved minutes from July 24 and August 8 meetings
• Placed monthly reports on file

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee is meeting to discuss and approve its 2024 budget proposal, along with several marketing initiatives. They will consider online ads from Midwest Communications, possible uses of a WEDC Talent Marketing Grant, and costs for the 2024 Visitors Guide. The committee will also continue discussing marketing consultant options and receive monthly reports from the Social Media Specialist.

• Consider and approve Midwest Communications ads for online marketing
• Discuss and consider WEDC Talent Marketing Grant: possible uses, budgeting, administration
• Update on potential costs for the 2024 Visitors Guide
• Consider and approve the Budget Proposal for 2024
• Survey results from Community Night Out and future Facebook posts

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved online ads with Midwest Communications starting in September and voted to forward the 2024 budget proposal to the Common Council. The committee also decided to have Midwest Communications handle marketing for the City of Merrill, with quarterly events mapped out. The WEDC Talent Marketing Grant and 2024 Visitors Guide costs were tabled for future discussion.

• Approved Midwest Communications online ads starting in September (motion carried)
• Approved forwarding 2024 budget proposal to Common Council (motion carried)
• Approved contacting Midwest Communications to market the City of Merrill (motion carried)
• Approved July 20 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion carried)
• Tabled WEDC Talent Marketing Grant discussion to September meeting
• Tabled 2024 Visitors Guide cost discussion to future agenda

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is meeting to handle routine approvals and discuss operations. They will review an endowment flyer revision, plan September offerings and an open house, and discuss confusion over using the Enrichment Center name for Expo rentals. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no major decisions or financial items listed.

• Approval of July 2023 meeting minutes
• Approval of July/August 2023 vouchers
• Endowment flyer revision review
• Discussion on confusion with Enrichment Center name for Expo rentals
• September offerings and open house planning

The committee approved the July minutes and July/August vouchers. Members decided to implement a mandatory endowment report every December and tasked the Director with drafting a donor thank-you letter and an oversight policy.

• Approved July '23 minutes (Motion carried)
• Approved July/Aug '23 vouchers (Motion carried)
• Approved motion to conduct an endowment report every December (Motion carried)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will meet on August 21, 2023, to approve the minutes of the June 2023 meeting, receive the administrator’s report on ridership and employee status, and discuss restructuring to maintain coverage. The meeting is open to public comment and will be held in the Merrill City Hall chambers or by phone.

• Approve minutes of June 2023 meeting
• Review ridership and employee status report
• Discuss employee restructuring to maintain coverage

The Merrill Transit Commission met on August 21, 2023, and unanimously approved the June 2023 meeting minutes and the administrator's report. The report noted steady ridership and the hiring of one part-time driver, with one part-time position still open. The commission discussed options for restructuring employee schedules to maintain coverage and planned to develop future plans. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved June 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved administrator's report (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will meet to discuss and vote on acquiring a garage for the airport residence, updating the airport manager and FBO contract, and reviewing the T-hangar use policy. The agenda also includes updates on the Runway 16/34 project, 2022/23 entitlement projects, and general airport maintenance.

• Discussion/Decision Acquisition of Garage for Airport Residence
• Discussion/Decision Airport Manager/FBO Contract Update
• Discussion/Decision T-Hangar Use Policy
• Status house sewer service replacement

The Merrill Airport Commission approved the acquisition and moving of a two-car garage for the airport manager's residence, and approved the minutes with corrections and payment of vouchers. The runway 16/34 project had no updates, while hangar resealing is behind schedule due to weather. The T-Hangar use policy discussion was postponed to next month.

• Approved minutes with corrections (motion by Mark W., seconded by Gary Schulz)
• Approved payment of vouchers (motion by Mark W., seconded by Gary Schulz)
• Approved acquisition of garage for airport residence (motion by Gary Schulz, seconded by Mark W.)

Library Board

The T. B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will meet to vote on a design project and estimate for the Youth Services Meeting/Activity Room. The board will also consider the renewal of a solar service and lease agreement.

• Approval of MSR Design Project Phase 1 and project estimate for Youth Services Meeting/Activity Room
• Solar Service & Lease Agreement Renewal approval
• Discussion of Board Committee Appointments
• Discussion of Endowment Fund Treasurer
• Discussion of Church Status

The Board approved the MSR Design Project Phase 1 and a $9,864 payment from the Endowment Fund, and renewed the Solar Service & Lease Agreement with TBS Solar, LLC. Committee appointments were finalized, and the Board discussed seeking a new Endowment Fund Treasurer. No public comment was made.

• Approved MSR Design Project Phase 1 and $9,864 payment from Endowment Fund
• Approved renewal of Solar Service & Lease Agreement with TBS Solar, LLC
• Accepted committee appointments: M. Caylor to Buildings and Grounds, R. Martinovici to Personnel & Finance
• Approved minutes of July 19, 2023 meeting
• Accepted Unaudited Revenue and Expense Report for July 2023
• Accepted Monthly Statistical Report for July 2023

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is holding a regular meeting to discuss several items, including the Legion Building and a response from the Parks and Recreation Director, historic homes and buildings with media coverage, and an update on sign placement. The committee will also consider approving the July 19th meeting minutes. No formal votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion on Legion Building and response from Parks and Recreation Director Wendorf
• Discussion regarding historic homes and buildings including media coverage
• Discussion and update on sign placement schedule, media coverage and next steps
• Consider approving July 19th meeting minutes

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting. No new ordinances or permits were decided. Members discussed using the Legion Building, sending letters to historic homeowners for media interviews, and collaborating with AAC members on historic buildings. These topics were deferred to the September agenda for further discussion.

• Approved July 19, 2023 meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Legion Building story board update deferred to September agenda
• Letter to six historic homeowners for media interviews discussed
• Collaboration with AAC members on historic buildings deferred to September agenda
• Sign placement schedule update noted as recurring item
• Meeting adjourned at 6:19 PM

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will vote on a rezoning request, several permits, property bids, and other routine items. The most consequential item is a proposed rezoning of a vacant property behind 1003 S Center Avenue from R-1 to Thoroughfare Commercial, which the Plan Commission recommends approving. The council will also consider temporary picnic licenses for the Lincoln County Fair, an amusement arcade permit, sanitary waste connections, delinquent property bids, and a 10-year street use permit for the Haunted Sawmill.

• Rezoning of vacant property behind 1003 S Center Avenue from R-1 to Thoroughfare Commercial, with 30-foot buffer on Pine Bluff Avenue
• Temporary Class B picnic licenses for Lincoln County Fair, Aug 16-20, 2023 at Merrill Festival Grounds
• Amusement Arcade Permit for Funtime Action Center, 1307 E Main Street
• Delinquent property bid of $5,500 for 503 Wisconsin Street and $25,695 for 1704 E Second Street
• Resolution granting Haunted Sawmill a 10-year street use permit for Hendricks Street

The Common Council approved a rezoning request for a vacant property behind 1003 S Center Avenue from R-1 to Thoroughfare Commercial, without a 30-foot buffer. They also approved a concept for Geiss Meats/Little Florida Trailer Court to connect to the city's sanitary waste system, two delinquent property bids, and a 10-year street use permit for The Haunted Sawmill. All motions carried, with one abstention on the picnic licenses.

• Approved rezoning of vacant property behind 1003 S Center Avenue from R-1 to Thoroughfare Commercial, without buffer
• Approved temporary Class 'B' picnic licenses for Lincoln County Fair Association (7-0, Meyer abstained)
• Approved amusement arcade permit for Funtime Action Center
• Approved concept for Geiss Meats/Little Florida Trailer Court to connect to sanitary waste system
• Approved delinquent property bid of $5,500 for 503 Wisconsin Street
• Approved delinquent property bid of $25,695 for 1704 E Second St
• Approved listing Lincoln County Highway G Industrial/Business Park with real estate broker Tony T.J. Morice
• Approved 10-year street use permit for The Haunted Sawmill (2024-2033)

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee is meeting to review a permit application for an amusement arcade. The committee will consider the request for the business located at 1307 E Main St.

• Amusement Arcade Permit application for Funtime Action Center at 1307 E Main St

The committee approved an amusement arcade permit for Funtime Action Center at 1307 E Main St. The permit covers six machines in the former Van’s Meat Market building and was forwarded to the Common Council.

• Approved amusement arcade permit for Funtime Action Center and forwarded to Common Council

Fairgrounds Committee

The Festival Grounds Committee will meet to discuss updates regarding the fair, rodeo, and permanent vendors. The body will also review the calendar of events and discuss ways to promote the grounds.

• Fair update
• Rodeo update
• Permanent vendor update
• Calendar of events
• Discussion on promoting the Festival Grounds

The committee heard updates on the fair, rodeo, and permanent vendors, and discussed promoting the grounds. No formal decisions were made beyond approving minutes and filing the manager's report. The committee agreed to prepare a capital improvements list for the September meeting.

• Approved minutes from July 6th meeting
• Filed Festival Grounds Manager's monthly report
• Agreed to prepare capital improvements list for September meeting

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss potential funding for kayak facilities and camping options. The body will also begin planning for 2024 equipment and capital improvements.

• Potential Lincoln County funding for kayak lift/dock at Ott’s Park or Riverside Park
• Potential camping at Riverside Park
• 2024 Capital Improvements & Equipment planning
• Park shelter refund policy
• Summer Playground Program

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved installing a kayak lift/dock at Ott's Park using Lincoln County's 85/21 grant, and adopted a new tiered cancellation policy for park rentals. They also discussed potential camping at Riverside Park, directing staff to study costs and locations, and reviewed the 2024 capital improvements list. No final decisions were made on camping or capital improvements.

• Approved kayak lift/dock at Ott's Park via Lincoln County 85/21 grant
• Adopted park rental cancellation policy: full refund 30+ days, 50% 14-29 days, no refund under 14 days
• Approved June 2023 claims unanimously
• Approved July 2023 claims unanimously
• Approved June meeting minutes unanimously
• Directed staff to research camping costs and property audit for potential campground

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority is meeting to discuss several redevelopment projects, including a potential real estate broker listing for the Hwy G Industrial/Business Park (TID 13), future redevelopment of 403 W Main St (TID 8), and a possible extension of Spruce St north of E 10th St (TID 7). They will also review housing incentive applications for 811 N State St and 1002 Cotey Dr, and review preliminary 2023 equalized valuations from the WI Department of Revenue. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and public comment.

• Potential real estate broker listing for Hwy G Industrial/Business Park (TID 13)
• Future redevelopment of 403 W Main St (corner with S. Prospect St) (TID 8)
• Potential extension of Spruce St north of E 10th St (TID 7)
• Housing incentive applications: 811 N State St and 1002 Cotey Dr
• Review of preliminary 2023 equalized valuations

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority approved a real estate listing agreement with NAIPfefferle for the Lincoln County Highway G Industrial/Business Park (TID No. 13), despite the site not being shovel-ready. The board also directed staff to prepare a cost estimate for a municipal parking lot at 403 W Main St for the 2024 budget and reviewed housing incentive applications.

• Approved listing agreement with NAIPfefferle for Highway G park (carried)
• Directed cost estimate for municipal parking lot at 403 W Main St (carried)
• Approved minutes from July 5, 2023 (carried)

City Plan Commission

The City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on a request by Holly Stoerzer to rezone a vacant property behind 1003 S Center Avenue from R-1 to Thoroughfare Commercial. The commission will also consider placing the minutes from the July 10, 2023 meeting on file.

• Public hearing on rezoning from R-1 to Thoroughfare Commercial for property behind 1003 S Center Avenue (PIN 251-3106-132-0232)
• Consideration of minutes from July 10, 2023 meeting

The City Plan Commission approved a rezoning request from Plant Garden Center, adding a 30-foot buffer on Pine Bluff Avenue to address neighbor concerns. The request will be forwarded to the Common Council for final consideration. The meeting also approved the previous meeting's minutes and adjourned without other substantive actions.

• Approved minutes from July 10th meeting (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning request for Plant Garden Center with 30-foot buffer on Pine Bluff Avenue (motion carried)
• Forwarded rezoning request to August 8th Common Council meeting

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will discuss water and sewer capital projects and street department budget updates. Members will consider a street closure request for a haunted house event and bids for delinquent properties.

• Sewer connection request for Geiss Meat/Little Florida Trailer Court
• Street closure request for Hendricks Street (E 7th to E 8th) for The Haunted Sawmill
• Delinquent property bids for 503 Wisconsin Street ($5,500.00) and 1704 E Second Street (up to $25,695.00)
• Proposed sidewalk removal at 1309 and 1311 E Tenth Street
• Capital project discussions for Well 3 Rehab and Cottage Street sewer lining

The Board of Public Works approved a motion allowing Geiss Meats/Little Florida Trailer Court to connect to the city's sanitary waste system, with the potential for water service. The motion passed on a 3/1 voice vote, with Alderperson Rick voting no. The board also approved street use permits, delinquent property bids, and forwarded capital requests to the budget.

• Approved Geiss Meats/Little Florida Trailer Court sewer connection with potential water (3-1)
• Approved street use permit for The Haunted Sawmill with 10-year grandfather clause
• Approved $5,500 bid for delinquent property at 503 Wisconsin Street
• Approved $25,695.00 bid for delinquent property at 1704 E 2nd Street
• Approved removal of existing sidewalk at 1309 and 1311 E 10th St
• Forwarded water/sewer capital requests to budget
• Forwarded street department capital equipment requests to budget with favorable replacement
• Approved June 28 meeting minutes

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider 2024 budget submissions for the public library and ambulance services. Members will also discuss job descriptions for a Finance Director and a Communications Specialist contractor.

• Proposed write-off of $186.88 for JW Perry, Inc. 2022 personal property tax bill
• 2024 budget consideration for Ambulance - EMS
• 2024 budget consideration for T.B. Scott Public Library
• Discussion of Finance Director job description
• Review of City of Merrill WPS Electric & Natural Gas charges

The Personnel & Finance Committee approved the 2024 budgets for Ambulance-EMS and T.B. Scott Library to forward to Lincoln County. It also approved writing off a $186.88 personal property tax bill for JW Perry, Inc., and gave interim administrators Akey and Bennett an additional two weeks of vacation for 2023. Several items were discussed without action, including utility charges, tax settlement, and sick leave policy, with sick leave to be revisited in September.

• Approved June vouchers
• Approved June 27 meeting minutes
• Approved write-off of 2022 personal property tax bill for JW Perry, Inc. for $186.88
• Approved 2024 budgets for Ambulance-EMS and T.B. Scott Library to forward to Lincoln County
• Approved monthly reports placed on file
• Approved closed session entry (3-0 roll call)
• Approved additional two weeks of vacation for Interim Administrators Akey and Bennett for 2023

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will meet to review nuisance complaints and vouchers. Members will discuss the city's deer population and a temporary liquor license for the Lincoln County Fair.

• Temporary Class "B" picnic license for Lincoln County Fair Association (August 16-20, 2023)
• Discussion on city deer population and possible solutions
• Review of nuisance complaints
• Approval of vouchers
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug and Police Chief Bennett

The Health and Safety Committee approved a temporary Class 'B' picnic license for the Lincoln County Fair Association. They also approved vouchers and placed monthly reports from the Fire and Police Chiefs on file. Discussion on deer population took place but no action was taken.

• Approved temporary Class 'B' picnic license for Lincoln County Fair Association
• Approved vouchers
• Placed June 26, 2023 minutes on file
• Placed Fire Chief monthly report on file
• Placed Police Chief monthly report on file

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Merrill Marketing & Communications Committee will review hiring plans for a new specialist, consider online advertising proposals, and discuss promotions for local events. The meeting includes updates from the social media specialist and a public comment period.

• Discussion of hiring new Marketing Communications Specialist
• Consideration of Midwest Marketing online advertising proposal
• Consideration of Wedding Planner ad for Expo Center rentals
• Discussion of street banners
• Promotion of Community Night Out on August 1

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved the Midwest Marketing online advertising proposal and a Wedding Planner ad for Expo Center rentals. They also decided to have Church Mutual redo its street banner while other banners wait until 2024, and directed interim administrators and the mayor to bring a recommendation on hiring a marketing specialist to the next meeting.

• Approved Midwest Marketing online advertising proposal (motion by Weix, second by Meyer)
• Approved Wedding Planner ad for Expo Center rentals, 2 full-page editions for $1,260 from Marketing Account (motion by Weix, second by Meyer)
• Decided Church Mutual will redo its street banner; other banners postponed to 2024 (motion by Weix, second by Meyer)
• Directed Interim CAs Akey and Bennett and Mayor Hass to bring hiring recommendation for Marketing Communications Specialist to next meeting
• Approved May 18 meeting minutes (motion by Weix, second by Meyer)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion by Meyer, second by Weix)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is holding a regular meeting to approve June meeting minutes and vouchers, and to discuss operations including the endowment, August activities and fair, and a fall open house. The ADRC will provide updates. The agenda is routine with no major decisions or public hearings.

• Approval of June 2023 meeting minutes
• Approval of June/July 2023 vouchers
• Discussion of endowment
• August activities/offerings/fair
• Fall open house planning

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved the June 2023 minutes and June/July vouchers. The director will manage endowment donations with separate tracking spreadsheets. The committee discussed the endowment flyer, including tax-deductibility wording and placement, and planned an open house for late September or mid-October.

• Approved June '23 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved June/July '23 vouchers (motion carried)

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will review the status of the Runway 16/34 project and entitlement projects from 2022/23. Members will discuss a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the current FBO hangar. The body may enter a closed session to consider an offer and potential sale/purchase agreement of airport property.

• Discussion/Decision on RFP for Current FBO Hangar
• Runway 16/34 Project status update
• Status of house sewer service improvement
• Update on F-84 Monument and airport signage
• Potential closed session regarding airport property sale/purchase agreement

The Merrill Airport Commission met on July 19, 2023, and approved the June meeting minutes and vouchers. They discussed the Runway 16/34 project, entitlement projects, signage, and maintenance, but took no major decisions. The meeting ended with a closed session.

• Approved June 21, 2023 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Approved vouchers (all ayes)
• Removed FBO hangar RFP from agenda (no action)
• Entered closed session via roll call vote (all ayes)

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will convene a regular meeting to receive the 2023 mid-year endowment fund report, discuss the 2024 library budget proposal, and consider a coffee truck’s use on library grounds. The board will also review unaudited June 2023 revenue and expense reports and recognize 20- and 15-year service milestones.

• 2023 Mid-year Endowment Fund Report
• 2024 Library Budget Proposal
• Ana Blair’s Coffee on the Go Coffee Truck discussion
• Unaudited Monthly Revenue & Expense Reports for June 2023
• Service recognition: Kay Andrews – 20 years & Andrea Bennett – 15 years

The Board approved the 2024 Library Budget Proposal, which includes a substantial increase in fixed expenses due to rising utility and material costs. They also approved the 2023 Mid-year Endowment Fund Report and a $400 invoice for accounting services, and allowed a coffee truck to set up at the library. No public comment was made.

• Approved 2023 Mid-year Endowment Fund Report and $400 accounting invoice
• Approved 2024 Library Budget Proposal
• Approved Ana Blair's Coffee on the Go Coffee Truck setup at the Library
• Appointed M. Caylor to Buildings and Grounds Committee
• Approved minutes of June 21, 2023 meeting
• Accepted June 2023 Unaudited Revenue and Expense Report

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to continue discussions on the Legion Building, including a story board and information from Park and Recreation, and to review a list of contractors for historic homes and buildings. They will also discuss media coverage and sign placement. The meeting includes public comment and approval of previous minutes.

• Continued discussion on Legion Building story board
• Information from Park and Recreation regarding Legion Building
• Discussion on list of contractors for historic homes and buildings
• Media coverage discussion with Social Media Specialist Savall
• Update on sign placement schedule and media coverage

The committee approved the minutes from the June 21, 2023, meeting with one revision. Members discussed updates to the Legion Building storyboard and researched contractors for historic buildings. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved June 21, 2023, meeting minutes

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will meet to approve June minutes, hear the administrator's report on ridership, employee status, and second quarter performance, and discuss restructuring an employee to maintain coverage. The meeting is routine oversight with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approve minutes of June 2023 meeting
• Administrator's report on ridership, employee status, and second quarter report
• Discussion of restructuring employee to maintain coverage
• Next meeting set for August 21, 2023 at 4:00 p.m.

The Transit Commission approved the June 2023 meeting minutes and the Administrator's second quarter report. The commission discussed employee staffing shortages and options for restructuring employees to maintain coverage.

• Approved June 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Administrator's report (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss the city's 2023 borrowing process with a representative from Ehlers, consider election machines for the 2024 election, and interview a candidate for the District 3 seat. The agenda also includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and public comment.

• Discussion of 2023 City of Merrill borrowing process with Brian Reilly from Ehlers
• Discussion and consideration of election machines for 2024, led by City Clerk Anderson-Malm
• Candidate interview for District 3 with Nathan Meyer
• Consider approving June 13th meeting minutes

The Committee of the Whole approved the purchase of election machines for 2024, with $28,380 available in the election budget to cover most of the cost. The council also approved Nathan Meyer to fill the vacant District 3 alderperson seat for the remainder of the current term. Minutes from the June 13 meeting were approved. No public comment was made.

• Approved 2024 election machines purchase (motion by Mayor Hass, seconded by Caylor)
• Approved Nathan Meyer as District 3 Alderperson to finish current term (motion by Rick, seconded by Russell)
• Approved minutes from June 13 meeting (motion by Russell, seconded by Weix)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will consider filling the vacant District 3 aldermanic seat with Nathan Meyer, including a recommendation from the Committee of the Whole and an oath of office. The council will also discuss the sale of the Knights of Columbus building at the Festival Grounds to the 4-H Leaders Association, approve routine reports and minutes, and act on several licenses and resolutions.

• Appoint Nathan Meyer to fill vacant District 3 aldermanic seat
• Sale of Knights of Columbus building at Festival Grounds to 4-H Leaders Association
• Class B Combo License for Sunset Hollow Wine Bistro & Gifts at 813 E 1st Street
• Change of agent for Krist Oil Company (Krist Food Mart #88) to Christina Jaeger
• Resolution honoring Rick Blake for service to the city

The Common Council approved the appointment of Nathan Meyer to fill the vacant District 3 aldermanic seat, with a term lasting until April 2024. The council also approved the sale of the Knights of Columbus building to the 4-H Leaders Association, approved election machines for 2024, and approved a Class B Combo license for Sunset Hollow Ranch. All votes were unanimous.

• Appointed Nathan Meyer to vacant District 3 aldermanic seat (unanimous)
• Approved sale of Knights of Columbus building to 4-H Leaders Association (unanimous)
• Approved election machines for 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved change of agent for Krist Oil Company to Christina Jaeger (unanimous)
• Approved Class B Combo license for Sunset Hollow Ranch (unanimous)
• Approved resolution honoring retiring Alderperson Rick Blake (unanimous)
• Approved mayor's appointments to committees and boards (unanimous)

City Plan Commission

The City Plan Commission is meeting to continue discussions regarding a conditional use request for a data mining center. The item was referred from a previous meeting pending additional information from the Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator.

• Conditional Use request for Data Mining Center at 400 S Kyes Street by Frank Romano and Best Share Mining LLC

The applicant for a conditional use permit for a data mining center at 400 S Kyes Street withdrew the application. The Building Inspector/Zoning Administrator will set a date for the equipment to be removed from the premises.

• Approved June 6th meeting minutes
• Conditional use application for data mining center at 400 S Kyes Street withdrawn

Fairgrounds Committee

The Festival Grounds Committee will meet to receive updates on the fair, rodeo, and permanent vendors. The body will also discuss the calendar of events and ways to promote the grounds.

• Fair and Rodeo updates
• Permanent Vendor update
• Calendar of Events
• 2024 Fireworks update from Mayor Hass
• Discussion regarding campgrounds

The committee heard updates on the fair and rodeo, and discussed 2024 fireworks and campground fencing, but took no substantive votes. The only formal actions were approving the previous minutes and filing the manager's report.

• Approved minutes from June 1 meeting (motion carried)
• Filed Festival Grounds Manager's monthly report (motion carried)

Redevelopment Authority

The Redevelopment Authority will consider a real estate broker listing agreement for TID 4. The body will also receive updates on 2023 infrastructure investments and residential developments.

• Follow-up consideration of potential TID 4 real estate broker listing agreement
• Update on 2023 utility and street infrastructure investments
• Update on new residential developments
• Closed session to negotiate potential property purchases and TID development incentives

The Redevelopment Authority approved a real estate listing agreement for TID No. 4 based on a fixed percentage of the sales price. The board also received updates on street infrastructure and residential apartment occupancy.

• Approved TID No. 4 real estate broker agreement with fixed % of sales price (Carried)
• Approved June 7, 2023 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Entered closed session to discuss property purchases and TID incentives (7-0)

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will hold its regular meeting on June 28, 2023, at 5:15 PM. The board will consider approving minutes from the May 24 meeting and review monthly reports from utility, street, and building departments. No substantive decisions are scheduled beyond procedural approvals.

The Board of Public Works approved the May 24 meeting minutes, placed water and sewer vouchers on file, accepted the 2022 Water Utility PSC Annual Report, and approved street department vouchers. All motions were carried unanimously. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned at 5:23 PM.

• Approved May 24, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Placed water and sewer vouchers on file (unanimous)
• Accepted 2022 Water Utility PSC Annual Report (unanimous)
• Approved street department vouchers (unanimous)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will hold a regular meeting that includes a closed session for personnel matters, a reclassification request, and negotiations with Lincoln County on the emergency services dispatch contract. In open session, they will consider approving vouchers and minutes, discuss internal fraud controls, and review the draft 2024 budget time frames and criteria. The agenda is largely procedural, with the substantive items being the fraud controls discussion and budget planning.

• Closed session to review personnel files and status of a City employee
• Closed session to discuss reclassification request by a Transit employee
• Closed session to negotiate emergency services dispatch contract with Lincoln County
• Discuss internal fraud controls per auditors
• Review 2024 budget time frames and criteria draft

The Personnel & Finance Committee approved May vouchers and minutes from previous meetings, and entered closed session to discuss personnel, reclassification, dispatch contract negotiations, and union bargaining strategy. No actions from closed session were reported in open session. The committee also discussed internal fraud controls and 2024 budget timelines, preferring shorter budget meetings, but took no formal action on those items.

• Approved May vouchers (3-0)
• Approved minutes from May 23 meeting (3-0)
• Approved closed-session minutes from March 28, April 13, May 23 (3-0)
• Entered closed session for personnel, reclassification, dispatch contract, union strategy (3-0)

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will review liquor and tobacco license applications and discuss a proposal to lower a speed limit. The body will also review nuisance complaints and monthly reports from the fire and police chiefs.

• Proposed speed limit reduction on CTH G from 45 to 35 mph
• Class B Combo license application for Sunset Hollow Wine Bistro & Gifts at 813 E 1st Street
• Change of Applicant for Krist Food Mart #88 at 105 S Center Avenue
• Tobacco license renewal for Northwoods Maple & More
• Review of nuisance complaints and vouchers

The Health and Safety Committee approved a Class B Combo liquor license for Sunset Hollow Ranch to operate Sunset Hollow Wine Bistro & Gifts at 813 E 1st Street. They also approved a change of agent for Krist Oil Company and voted to keep the speed limit on CTH G at 45 mph. The committee approved routine vouchers and placed monthly reports on file.

• Approved Class B Combo license for Sunset Hollow Ranch (unanimous)
• Approved change of agent for Krist Oil Company to Christina Jaeger (unanimous)
• Denied lowering speed limit on CTH G from 45 to 35 (unanimous)
• Approved vouchers (unanimous)
• Placed monthly reports on file (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to discuss the status of the Runway 16/34 project and entitlement projects for 2022/23. The body will also make a decision regarding a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the current FBO hangar.

• Decision on RFP for current FBO hangar
• Status update on Runway 16/34 Project
• Update on 2022/23 Entitlement Projects
• Status of house sewer service improvement
• Discussion regarding EAA Cup Race

The Airport Commission approved the May 24 meeting minutes and vouchers, both unanimously. The runway 16/34 project status was discussed, noting increased federal funding for general aviation and ongoing efforts to restore the runway. The T-hangar drainage/blacktop project is nearly complete, and the fuel price will be lowered to $4.99 for the Oshkosh event.

• Approved May 24, 2023 meeting minutes (all ayes)
• Approved vouchers (all ayes)
• Adjourned meeting (all ayes)

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees meets on June 21, 2023, to discuss and vote on several policy updates, including patron privacy, gifts, collection development, and programming. The board will also consider a recommendation to proceed with a room addition and review the status of the church property.

• Action Item: Protection of Library Patron Privacy Policy
• Action Item: Gift Policy
• Action Item: Collection Development Policy
• Action Item: Programming Policy
• Action Item: Room Addition Recommendation Request to Proceed

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved a request to proceed with a room addition for a Youth Services Department Activity/Meeting Room, and will now seek project management estimates from MSR Design, Inc. The board also approved several policies, including patron privacy, gifts, collection development, and programming. A property owner's rezoning request was dismissed due to lack of communication, requiring a refile.

• Approved minutes of May 17, 2023 regular meeting
• Accepted monthly Unaudited Revenue and Expense Report for May 2023
• Approved Protection of Library Patron Privacy Policy
• Approved Gift Policy
• Approved Collection Development Policy
• Approved Programming Policy
• Approved Room Addition Recommendation Request to Proceed
• Adjourned at 4:33 p.m.

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is holding a regular meeting to approve previous minutes and discuss several ongoing items. Key topics include updates on the Legion Building, a possible list of contractors for historic homes and buildings, and sign placement and media coverage. The meeting is open to the public with remote attendance options.

• Approval of May 17th meeting minutes
• Update and continued discussion on Legion Building, including story board and Park and Recreation information
• Discussion on possible list of contractors for historic homes and buildings
• Continued discussion on sign placement schedule and media coverage, including update on placed street signs

The committee approved the May 17, 2023 meeting minutes and discussed several items, but made no final decisions. The Legion Building story board and Park and Recreation information were both deferred to the July agenda for further discussion. A list of contractors for historic homes and buildings was reviewed and also placed on the July agenda, with Media Specialist Savall invited to the next meeting. The committee also discussed the schedule for placing honorary street signs and set a $20 non-refundable fee for citizen requests for new signs.

• Approved May 17, 2023 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Deferred Legion Building story board discussion to July agenda
• Deferred Legion Building Park and Recreation information to July agenda
• Placed contractor list discussion on July agenda, inviting Media Specialist Savall
• Set $20 non-refundable fee for honorary street sign requests

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will meet on June 19, 2023, to approve May minutes, hear the administrator's report on ridership and employee status, and discuss a parent signature form for the next school year. They will also consider allowing groups to use 107 Bait, with permission already obtained to pull in and turn around. The meeting is routine with no major budget or policy changes.

• Approve minutes of May 2023 meeting
• Administrator's report on ridership and employee status
• Parent signature form for next school year
• Consider 107 Bait for groups (permission to pull in and turn around)

The Transit Commission approved a motion to provide service to 107 Bait Shop for groups, following public comment from Mayor Haas. The commission also unanimously approved the May 2023 minutes and the administrator's report, which noted steady ridership and a shortage of two part-time employees. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved service to 107 Bait Shop for groups (unanimous)
• Approved May 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved administrator's report (unanimous)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will meet to discuss operational updates and upcoming events. The body will review a draft endowment flyer and plan a Fall Open House.

• Check in system status update
• Review of first draft of Endowment Flyer
• Planning for Fall Open House and Foto News newsletters
• Approval of May/June 2023 vouchers

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved the May minutes and May/June vouchers. They decided to structure the endowment under budget #26 for more control, and directed the director to work with the City Attorney and Finance Director to draft a document protecting the Memorial and future Endowment funds from being used by the City. The committee also approved expanding the September newsletter to the Athens zip code and discussed plans for a fall open house.

• Approved May '23 minutes (motion by Blake, second by Bebel)
• Approved May/June '23 vouchers (motion by Harvey, second by Anderson)
• Decided endowment to be under budget #26 for more control over funds
• Directed director to draft document with City Attorney and Finance Director to protect funds from City use
• Approved Athens zip code as second newsletter reach for September
• Accepted Rick Blake's resignation; recommended he attend as community member

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss and possibly recommend actions on electric vehicle charging stations and the overall make-up of city committees and commissions. No decisions are listed on the agenda; only discussions and possible recommendations are noted.

The Committee of the Whole postponed discussions regarding the installation of electric vehicle charging stations and the composition of city committees. The committee also entered a closed session to discuss a Communications Specialist employment contract.

• Forwarded EV charging station discussion to a future meeting (8-0)
• Tabled discussion on committee and commission makeup
• Entered closed session to discuss Communications Specialist agreement (8-0)
• Approved previous closed session minutes

Common Council

The Common Council will consider several temporary liquor licenses for local sports and community events. The body will also receive an update on a rezoning request for 100 N Polk Street and approve the 2022 wastewater treatment plant compliance report.

• Rezoning request update for 100 N Polk Street from Public to Business
• Class 'B' picnic licenses for Athletic Park Baseball Boosters
• Class 'B' picnic licenses for Merrill Youth Fastpitch Association (July 21-23)
• Class 'B' picnic license for VFW/Post 1638 (July 29)
• 2022 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report for the Wastewater Treatment Plant

The Common Council approved a motion to terminate the contract of the Communications Specialist, as recommended from a closed session. Several temporary picnic and liquor licenses were approved for local events. A rezoning request for 100 N Polk Street was discussed but no action was taken.

• Terminated Communications Specialist contract (motion carried)
• Approved Class B picnic licenses for Athletic Park Baseball Boosters (motion carried)
• Approved three temporary picnic licenses for Merrill Youth Fastpitch Association (motion carried)
• Approved temporary picnic license for VFW/Post 1638 (motion carried)
• Approved 2023/2024 liquor license applications (motion carried)
• Approved resolution for 2022 Wastewater Treatment Plant Compliance Maintenance Annual Report (motion carried)
• Approved resolution honoring Joy Ellen Annis for 24 years of service (motion carried)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to discuss park maintenance and facility updates. The body will address rules regarding unleashed dogs and pet waste, as well as potential changes to shelter reservation fees.

• Discussion on unleashed dogs and pet waste removal in all parks
• Update on connector bridge from Prairie Dells County Park to the City Forest
• Proposed adjustment of cancellation fees for Park Shelter Reservations
• Update on Bierman Family Aquatic Center repairs

The Parks and Recreation Commission held a discussion-only meeting with no formal decisions. They discussed updating city ordinances on unleashed dogs and pet waste, reviewing cancellation fees for park shelter reservations, and received updates on the Prairie Dells connector bridge and the Bierman Family Aquatic Center. All actions were limited to approving the previous meeting's minutes and May 2023 claims.

• Approved May meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved May 2023 claims (unanimous)

Redevelopment Authority

The Redevelopment Authority will review three new housing incentive applications and discuss the marketing of city-owned vacant land. The body will also review the 2022 Tax Increment District Annual Reports.

• Housing incentive applications for 602 Eugene Street, 1509 Nicklaus Drive, and 1605 Nicklaus Drive
• Marketing of City-owned vacant land at Pine Ridge Plaza (TID 4)
• Review of 2022 Tax Increment District (TID) Annual Reports
• Closed session regarding sale terms for City-owned vacant land at the southeast corner of Pine Ridge Plaza (TID No. 4)

The Redevelopment Authority approved a motion to authorize the Mayor and Co-Interim City Administrators to list City-owned vacant land at Pine Ridge Plaza (TID No. 4) for sale, following a presentation by real estate broker T.J. Morice. The board also approved the May 3, 2023 meeting minutes. Updates were provided on residential development, including completion of two homes on Johnson St. and construction of two more, and on 2022 TID annual reports showing about $5 million in expenditures.

• Authorized listing City-owned Pine Ridge Plaza property for sale (motion carried)
• Approved May 3, 2023 RDA meeting minutes (motion carried)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The City of Merrill Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding two requests for variances to residential fencing regulations. The board will also review minutes from September 6, 2022.

• Variance request for fencing at 908 West Street (Tara Gryskiewicz)
• Variance request for fencing at 700 Wisconsin Street (Paul Lindstrom)

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved two fence variance requests, both unanimously, with conditions. The first, for Tara Gryskiewicz, allows a 6-foot vinyl fence with a CSM and a minimum 1-foot setback from the front property line. The second, for Paul Lindstrom, allows a fence with a CSM, a 6-foot maximum height, and location per the site plan. The board also discussed swimming pool requirements, reaching a consensus that pools removable in the off-season are exempt from code 113-321.

• Approved variance for Tara Gryskiewicz for a 6' vinyl fence with conditions (CSM, 1' front setback) (unanimous)
• Approved variance for Paul Lindstrom for a fence with conditions (CSM, 6' max height, location per site plan) (unanimous)
• Consensus that off-season removable pools are exempt from 113-321 requirements

City Plan Commission

The City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use request for a data mining center. The body will also continue discussions on a revised Conditional Use Application form.

• Public hearing for Best Share Mining LLC requesting a Conditional Use for a Data Mining Center at 400 S Kyes Street

The City Plan Commission held a public hearing on Frank Romano's request for a conditional use permit for a data mining center at 400 S Kyes Street. After discussion about equipment already moved in and noise concerns, the commission referred the matter to the next meeting, requiring an inspection by the zoning administrator and additional information. The revised Conditional Use Application form was discussed with no concerns raised.

• Approved minutes from May 2nd meeting (unanimous)
• Opened and closed public hearing for data mining center conditional use
• Referred data mining center conditional use to next meeting pending inspection and more info
• Discussed revised Conditional Use Application form, no changes requested

Fairgrounds Committee

The Festival Grounds Committee is holding a regular meeting to consider approval of the May 4 minutes and discuss updates on the fair, rodeo, and calendar of events. They will also continue discussions on promoting the Festival Grounds, including fireworks and campgrounds. The meeting includes public comment and scheduling of the next meeting.

• Approval of minutes from May 4, 2023 meeting
• Fair update
• Rodeo update
• Fireworks at Festival Grounds update
• Campgrounds update

The committee received updates on the Fair and Rodeo associations and reviewed a calendar of events. Discussions were held regarding the 2024 fireworks location and campground investments, but no formal actions were taken on these items.

• Approved minutes from May 4th meeting

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will meet to review monthly reports and approve vouchers for the Street Department and water and sewer services. The board will consider a resolution to approve the 2022 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report for forwarding to the Common Council.

• Review and approval of 2022 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report
• Approval of Water and sewer vouchers
• Approval of Street Department vouchers

The Board of Public Works approved the 2022 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report (CMAR) with no violations and forwarded a resolution to the Common Council. The board also approved routine items including water/sewer and street department vouchers, placed monthly reports on file, and set the next meeting for June 28, 2023. No public comment was made.

• Approved April 26, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Placed water and sewer vouchers on file (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 CMAR and forwarded resolution to Common Council (unanimous)
• Approved street department vouchers (unanimous)
• Placed monthly reports on file (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will hear updates on the Runway 16/34 project and 2022/23 entitlement projects, discuss or decide on a current Request for Proposals for the Fixed Base Operator (FBO) hangar, and review airport signage and general maintenance including house sewer service improvements.

• Runway 16/34 Project Status update
• Discussion/Decision on RFP for current FBO Hangar
• Status of house sewer service improvement
• Update on Airport Signage
• Update on F-84 Monument

The Airport Commission approved the purchase of a sign for the intersection of Airport Rd. and Taylor St. at an approximate cost of $3,000 including cement. The commission also approved the minutes and vouchers, and discussed the status of the Runway 16/34 project, which remains under federal review. No other substantive decisions were made; several items were discussed but deferred.

• Approved purchase of sign for Airport Rd. and Taylor St. (approx. $3,000) (motion passed)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting (motion passed)
• Approved payment of vouchers (motion passed)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Merrill Personnel and Finance Committee will meet to discuss the 2023 WPS expense for city facilities, approve April vouchers, and place monthly reports on file. The meeting will also include routine approval of prior minutes and public comment.

• Approve April vouchers
• Review and discuss 2023 WPS expense for City facilities
• Place monthly reports (Mayor, Finance Director, City Attorney, City Clerk, Municipal Court) on file

The Personnel & Finance Committee approved April vouchers and filed monthly reports. It discussed the 2023 WPS utility expenses for city facilities, with a request for updates every 60 days. The committee entered closed session to discuss a fire union grievance, where action was taken, and did not reconvene in open session.

• Approved April vouchers (motion carried)
• Approved April 25 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Filed monthly reports (motion carried)
• Requested 60-day updates on WPS expenses (discussion)
• Entered closed session for fire union grievance (3-0 roll call)
• Adjourned from closed session (motion carried)

Health and Safety Committee

The committee will consider temporary picnic licenses for the VFW/Post 1638 and the Merrill Youth Fastpitch Association. Members will also review 2023-2024 liquor license applications and nuisance complaints.

• Temporary 'Class B' picnic license for VFW/Post 1638 for July 29, 2023
• Three temporary 'Class B' picnic licenses for Merrill Youth Fastpitch Association for July 21, 22, and 23
• 2023-2024 Liquor License Applications
• Nuisance complaints and vouchers
• Annual Report from the Merrill Fire Department

The Health and Safety Committee approved the 2023-2024 liquor license list except for Pine Ridge Mobile Convenience Store's request for a class change, which was denied on a 2/1 voice vote. The committee also approved temporary picnic licenses for VFW/Post 1638 and Merrill Youth Fastpitch Association, and placed monthly reports on file.

• Approved temporary Class B picnic license for VFW/Post 1638 for July 29, 2023
• Approved three temporary Class B picnic licenses for Merrill Youth Fastpitch Association for July 21-23 at the MARC
• Approved 2023-2024 liquor license list except Pine Ridge Mobile Convenience Store class change (2/1 voice vote, Chair Weix voted no)
• Approved vouchers
• Placed April 24, 2023 minutes on file
• Placed monthly reports from Fire Chief and Police Chief on file

Marketing & Communications Committee

The committee will review a presentation of the city's new website. Members will also discuss the design of city street banners and a naming contest for garbage and recycling trucks.

• Design and communications for City street banners
• Contest to name City garbage and recycling trucks
• Presentation of new website
• Monthly reports from Marketing & Communications Specialist Kuczmarski and Social Media Specialist Savall

The committee approved the minutes from the April 20 meeting and placed monthly reports on file. Members discussed city street banner designs and the new city website, but no formal actions were taken on those items.

• Approved April 20 meeting minutes
• Placed monthly reports on file

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is meeting to discuss center operations and ADRC updates. The body will review the status of the myseniorcenter check-in system and plan summer offerings.

• Recap of May 6th spring craft show and Quilt Raffle
• Status of myseniorcenter check-in system
• Review of summer offerings
• Approval of April/May 2023 vouchers

The committee approved the April minutes and April/May vouchers, and discussed upcoming events and programs. The spring craft show raised $2,670, and the new check-in system is expected to be operational by mid-June. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on operational updates and future planning.

• Approved April '23 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved April/May '23 vouchers (motion carried)
• Discussed spring craft show results: $2,670 total revenue
• Planned to explore new spring offerings (art show, Taste of Merrill)
• New check-in system to be operational by mid-June
• Scheduled next meeting for June 15, 2023

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee will review the April 2023 meeting minutes and hold information-only discussions on the Legion Building, contractor lists for historic homes, and sign placement schedules. No formal decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.

• Consider approval of April 19, 2023 meeting minutes
• Legion Building storyboard and Park & Rec update
• Discussion on possible contractor list for historic homes and buildings
• Continued discussion on sign placement schedule and media coverage

The committee met to discuss the Legion Building, contractor lists for historic homes, and sign placement schedules. No substantive actions were taken on these agenda items. The committee approved the minutes from the April 19, 2023 meeting.

• Approved April 19, 2023 meeting minutes

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve minutes and financial reports, discuss a youth services endowment fund request, and begin planning for the 2024-2028 strategic plan. No policy updates or ordinance changes are scheduled.

• Action Item: Endowment Fund Request from Youth Services
• Discussion Item: Process for 2024-2028 Strategic/Long Range Plan
• Discussion Item: Church Property Status
• Strategic Plan Goals & Objectives #4
• Wisconsin Trustee Essential #1: The Trustee Job Description

The Board approved a request for new furnishings for the Youth Services Department to complete an interactive literacy center. Members also discussed a preliminary outline for the 2024-2028 Long-Range Planning Process and received an update on a pending rezoning request for adjacent church property.

• Approved April 19, 2023 meeting minutes
• Accepted April 2023 Unaudited Revenue and Expense Report
• Approved Endowment Fund Request for Youth Services furnishings

Transit Commission

The Transit Commission will meet to review student bus behavior policies and discuss a request for service to Hillside Church. The body will also introduce a new member and review the Administrator's report.

• Review of disruptive behavior policy regarding student bus behavior
• Consideration of service to Hillside Church at 1501 Pier Street
• Introduction of new member Sara Doerr

The Merrill Transit Commission approved a new student behavior policy and the administrator's report, and unanimously approved the April 2023 meeting minutes. A proposal to add service to Hillside Church was discussed but no motion was made. The next meeting is scheduled for June 19, 2023.

• Approved April 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved administrator's report (unanimous)
• Approved new student behavior policy (unanimous)
• Discussed service to Hillside Church; no motion made

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet to decide on a street closure for a local business event, lift a police hiring freeze, and approve zoning changes for a property on N Polk Street. The council will also consider temporary liquor licenses for rodeo events and receive the 2022 tourism report.

• Street use permit for Golden Harvest Market to close Pearl Street (Main to Thielman) on June 3, 7 AM–7 PM
• Lifting the hiring freeze for the Police Department
• Rezoning 100 N Polk Street from Public to Business
• Approval of final plat for CM's First Addition (Johnson Street)
• Amending habitual truancy ordinance (Chapter 26, Article V, Section 26-134)

The Common Council approved several routine items, including a street use permit for Golden Harvest, lifting the police hiring freeze, three temporary picnic licenses for the Lincoln County Rodeo Association, and the final plat for a single-family residential development on Johnson Street. A request to rezone 100 N Polk Street from Public to Business was referred to the June meeting. The council also approved an amended habitual truancy ordinance and two Library Board appointments.

• Approved street use permit for Golden Harvest Market to close Pearl Street on June 3 (motion carried)
• Lifted hiring freeze for Police Department due to senior officer resignation (motion carried)
• Approved three temporary Class B picnic licenses for Lincoln County Rodeo Association for June 9-11 (motion carried)
• Referred rezoning of 100 N Polk Street to June meeting (motion carried)
• Approved final plat for CM's First Addition (Johnson Street) (motion carried)
• Approved amended habitual truancy ordinance (8-0 roll call)
• Approved resolution approving final plat for Johnson Street development (motion carried)
• Approved Library Board appointments: Chris Gruenenwald and Darcy Dalsky (motion carried)

Fairgrounds Committee

The committee is meeting to review updates on the Fair, Rodeo, and Loyalty Day Celebration. Members will discuss potential recommendations for stage rental fees and facility rental incentives for the Expo Center and Parks & Recreation.

• Recommendation on stage rental fees per event
• Facility rental incentive policies for Parks & Recreation and Expo Center
• Promotion of Festival Grounds fireworks and campgrounds
• Calendar of Events review

The committee approved a $250 per-event stage rental fee and a multi-rental incentive (three rentals at $450, fourth at $350, retroactive to Jan 1, 2023, sunset Dec 31, 2025). It also approved $3,100 for stage accessories. Fireworks and campground discussions were deferred to the June agenda.

• Approved $250 per-event stage rental fee (motion carried)
• Approved rental incentive: 3 rentals at $450, 4th at $350, retroactive to Jan 1, 2023, sunset Dec 31, 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved $3,100 for stage accessories (motion carried)
• Deferred fireworks and campground discussions to June agenda

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and claims, and electing a member to the City Plan Commission and a vice chairperson. They will also discuss and revisit a plan for houses between Lion's Park and 3rd St., noting a house there is currently for sale. The meeting includes public comment periods and setting the next meeting date.

• Elect member to City Plan Commission
• Elect Vice Chairperson
• Discuss and revisit plan for houses between Lion's Park and 3rd St.
• Approve claims
• Public comment

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved the April minutes and claims, and elected Kyle Gulke to the City Plan Commission and Chad Krueger as Vice Chairperson, all unanimously. They also discussed a plan to potentially purchase homes near Lion's Park for parking or green space, directing staff to consult with the City Attorney and school district. No public comment was made.

• Approved April meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved April 2023 claims (unanimous)
• Elected Kyle Gulke to City Plan Commission (unanimous)
• Elected Chad Krueger as Vice Chairperson (unanimous)
• Directed staff to discuss home purchase plan with City Attorney and school district

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will review meeting minutes, hear a status update on residential developments, and discuss a new $10,000 housing incentive program. They will also consider a potential sale of City-owned vacant land at Pine Ridge Plaza to facilitate new commercial development.

• Approval of March 1 RDA meeting minutes
• Review of March 28 joint meeting minutes with Common Council
• Continued review of $10,000 new housing incentive program
• Update on housing incentive application for 1804 E 12th St
• Potential sale of City-owned vacant land at Pine Ridge Plaza (TID No 4) for commercial development

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority approved minutes from March 1, 2023, and reviewed the $10,000 new housing incentive program, noting a completed application for a new home at 1804 E. 12th St. The RDA also moved into closed session to negotiate the sale of City-owned vacant land at TID No. 4 near Pine Ridge Plaza, with further discussion planned for the next meeting. No formal decisions were made on the incentive program or land sale.

• Approved RDA meeting minutes from March 1, 2023 (motion carried)
• Moved to closed session to negotiate sale of City-owned land at TID No. 4 (5-0 roll call)

City Plan Commission

The City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a rezoning request for a property on N Polk St. The body will also review a conditional use application form and a final plat for CM's First Addition.

• Rezoning request for 100 N Polk St from Public to Business
• Approval of Final Plat for CM's First Addition (Johnson Street)
• Discussion of Conditional Use Application Form

The commission approved a request to rezone 100 N Polk St from public to business, provided a plan and parking lot agreement are presented within six months. The commission also forwarded a final plat for CM’s First Additional to the Common Council.

• Approved rezoning of 100 N Polk St from public to business with 6-month deadline for plan and parking agreement (6-1)
• Forwarded final plat for CM’s First Additional (Johnson Street) to Common Council for final approval
• Approved February 7th meeting minutes

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will meet to approve vouchers for water and sewer services, review monthly reports from utility and street departments, and consider a lease renewal for space on Water Tower A (East Street). The board will also discuss proposed minimum bids for city-owned tax delinquent properties and place monthly reports on file.

• Approve Water and Sewer vouchers
• Approve Street Department vouchers
• Consider T-Mobile lease renewal for Water Tower A (East Street)
• Consider proposed minimum bids for tax delinquent properties
• Place monthly reports on file

The Board of Public Works approved the minimum bids for City-owned tax delinquent properties as stated in the packet, with a 3/1 voice vote. A proposed amendment to change minimum bids for two specific properties failed for lack of a second. The board also approved routine vouchers and monthly reports, and discussed a T-Mobile lease renewal for Water Tower A.

• Approved minimum bids for City-owned tax delinquent properties as stated in packet (3/1 voice vote)
• Motion to change minimum bid for Wisconsin St property to $15,000 and 2nd St property to $10,000 died for lack of second
• Approved March 29, 2023 meeting minutes
• Placed Water and Sewer vouchers on file
• Approved Street Department vouchers
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Discussed T-Mobile lease renewal for Water Tower A; no objections to renegotiation

Board of Review

The Board of Review will meet to receive the assessment roll from the assessor. The body will also review the annual assessment report provided by Bowmar Appraisal.

• Annual Assessment Report from Bowmar Appraisal
• Receipt of the Assessment Roll from the Assessor

The Board of Review heard an objection from Walmart Real Estate Business Trust regarding the assessment of its property at 505 South Pine Ridge Avenue. The Board voted to maintain the current assessment despite the owner's request for a reduction.

• Retained assessment of 505 South Pine Ridge Avenue at $9,956,700 (5-0)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Merrill Personnel and Finance Committee will discuss and consider approving March vouchers and minutes from previous meetings. The committee is also scheduled to evaluate pool filling programs and potential service fee increases, transit employee time off carryover limits for 2023 and 2024, and city cell phone provisions for outside contractors.

• Discuss and consider March vouchers
• Evaluate and consider the program of filling pools and potential fee increases
• Discuss and consider Transit employees time off carryover limits for 2023 and 2024 with Transit Director Brummond
• Discuss and consider city cell phone provisions to outside contractors

The Personnel & Finance Committee voted 2-1 to stop the pool-filling program for the City of Merrill and townships, citing staffing concerns. The committee also approved March vouchers, previous meeting minutes, and a motion to require future contracts to detail any city-owned equipment provided to contractors. No action was taken on transit employee time-off carryover limits, but the committee decided to post the transit job opening and monitor the situation monthly.

• Approved March vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved March 28 and April 13 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Stopped pool-filling program for city and townships (2-1, Russell no)
• Directed City Attorney to ensure future contracts detail city-owned equipment (unanimous)
• Placed monthly reports on file (unanimous)

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will meet on April 24, 2023, to discuss nuisance complaints, vouchers, and monthly reports from the police and fire chiefs. Key agenda items include temporary liquor licenses for the Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo, an ordinance amendment on habitual truancy, city deer population solutions, and pool fill rate increases.

• Three temporary Class "B" picnic licenses for the Lincoln County Rodeo Association for the Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo on June 9, 10, and 11, 2023
• Ordinance amending Chapter 26, Article V, Section 26-134 Habitual Truancy
• Discussion on deer population within the city and possible solutions with Chief Bennett and the DNR
• Continued discussion regarding pool fills and potential rate increases requested by P&F Chair Russell and Chair Weix

The Health and Safety Committee approved three temporary Class B picnic licenses for the Lincoln County Rodeo Association and an ordinance amendment to Chapter 26, Article V, Section 26-134 on habitual truancy, both to be forwarded to the May Common Council. The committee also discussed deer population control and pool fill rate increases but took no action on these items.

• Approved three temporary Class B picnic licenses for Lincoln County Rodeo Association (June 9-11, 2023) (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance amendment to Chapter 26, Article V, Section 26-134 on habitual truancy (unanimous)
• Placed monthly police and fire reports on file (unanimous)
• Approved vouchers (unanimous)
• Placed March 27, 2023 minutes on file (unanimous)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will review the March Cable Franchise revenue and expense report. Members will discuss promotional plans for the Festival Grounds, city street banners, and a WEDC marketing grant opportunity.

• Promotion plan for camping and events at the Festival Grounds
• Design and business contacts for City street banners
• WEDC (Wisconsin Economic Development) marketing grant opportunity
• Signage for Merrill Municipal Airport
• Presentation on street naming signage from the Historic Preservation Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee met and approved the previous meeting's minutes, placed the Cable Franchise fund revenue/expense report on file, and filed monthly reports. Discussions covered promoting the Festival Grounds, Loyalty Day, airport signage, street banners, a truck-naming contest, a WEDC grant, and other items, but no substantive decisions were made on these topics.

• Approved March 16 meeting minutes
• Placed Cable Franchise fund revenue/expense report on file
• Placed monthly reports on file

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is meeting to review operations and set center goals. The body will discuss upcoming events and administrative systems.

• May 6th spring craft show
• Newsletter distribution
• Endowment
• myseniorcenter check in system status
• MEC Goals

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee met on April 20, 2023, and approved the March minutes and March/April vouchers. The committee discussed the upcoming spring craft show, newsletter distribution, endowment fund research, and a new check-in system. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on operational updates and 2023 goals.

• Approved March 2023 minutes (motion by Blake, second by Anderson)
• Approved March/April 2023 vouchers (motion by Akey, second by Harvey)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Harvey, second by Baker)

Historic Preservation Committee

The Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to review a request for an honorary street name and discuss the status of historical signage. The body will also coordinate a schedule for sign placement and media coverage.

• Request from Holy Cross Sisters for honorary street name for Mother Aniceta Regli
• Status of Legion Building story board
• Update on status of remaining street signs
• Discussion of sign placement schedule and media coverage

The Historic Preservation Committee approved an honorary street name for Mother Aniceta Regli, to be placed on a portion of O'day Street. The committee also discussed the Legion Building story board, street sign status, and installation plans. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved honorary street name 'Mother Aniceta Way' on a portion of O'day Street (motion carried)
• Approved minutes from March 15, 2023 (motion carried)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will meet to review project statuses including the Runway 16/34 project and 2022/23 entitlement projects. Commissioners will also discuss and potentially decide on an RFP for the current FBO hangar, along with updates on airport signage, the F-84 monument, and general maintenance.

• Discussion and decision regarding RFP for current FBO hangar
• Runway 16/34 Project Status update
• Update on Entitlement Projects 2022/23
• Status update on house sewer service improvement under general maintenance

The Merrill Airport Commission approved the March 15, 2023 meeting minutes and vouchers, both by unanimous vote. No new information was reported on the Runway 16/34 project or FBO hangar RFP. The commission discussed airport signage, with a sample displayed and proceeds from a plane sale ($800) earmarked for the project. It was decided to contact the Air Force about options for the F-84 monument due to prohibitive costs.

• Approved March 15, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved payment of vouchers (unanimous)
• Decided to contact Air Force about F-84 monument options

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting on April 19, 2023, to consider several policy updates, including patron records confidentiality, library account creation and loans, internet use, and conflict of interest. They will also discuss a space needs study update and a board member recommendation. The meeting includes consent items for minutes and financial reports, plus a director's report and president's remarks.

• Action on Confidentiality of Patron Records Policy
• Action on Library Account Creation & Loan Policy
• Action on Internet Use Policy
• Action on Conflict of Interest Statement
• Discussion on MSR Space Needs Study Update

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved three policy revisions: the Confidentiality of Patron Records Policy, the Library Account Creation & Loan Policy, and the Internet Use Policy. The board also discussed the Space Needs Study, recommended a new trustee to the mayor, and received updates on strategic goals and upcoming events.

• Approved Confidentiality of Patron Records Policy (unanimous)
• Approved Library Account Creation & Loan Policy (unanimous)
• Approved Internet Use Policy (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of March 15, 2023 (unanimous)
• Accepted March 2023 Unaudited Revenue and Expense Report (unanimous)
• Accepted December 2022 Unaudited Revenue and Expense Report (unanimous)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will meet on April 17, 2023, to discuss transit operations, including a review of the disruptive student bus behavior policy. The meeting will also cover ridership updates, a quarterly report, and approve previous meeting minutes.

• Review disruptive student bus behavior policy
• Approve minutes of February 2022 meeting
• Administrator’s report on ridership and quarterly updates

The Transit Commission approved the March 2023 minutes and the administrator's report, both unanimously. The commission also reviewed an updated student behavior policy and discussed a form for parents to sign, but no formal action was taken on the policy.

• Approved March 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved administrator's report (unanimous)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss employee performance, compensation, or disciplinary data in a closed session. The body may reconvene in open session for possible action related to those subjects.

• Closed session to review employee performance records, personnel files, and status

The Personnel and Finance Committee convened in closed session to discuss a city employee's performance and personnel file. The committee took no action during the closed session and adjourned without reconvening in open session. No public comment was received.

• Approved closed session (3-0)
• No action taken in closed session
• Adjourned from closed session

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss and possibly recommend an ordinance limiting citizen service on appointed committees or commissions to ten years or three terms, whichever comes first. They will also discuss sharing services with the county, based on a list of suggestions from alderpersons, with County Board Chair Friske. The meeting is a discussion session; no final votes are expected.

• Discussion on ordinance limiting citizen appointees to 10 years or 3 terms on committees/commissions
• Discussion with County Board Chair Friske on sharing services: HR, legal, marketing, payroll, IT, finance, and other suggestions

The Committee of the Whole met on April 11, 2023, and discussed two topics but took no formal action. A proposed ordinance to limit citizen committee members to ten years or three terms was discussed and set aside, with the mayor retaining authority over committee changes. The council also discussed potential service sharing with the county, but no decisions were made.

• No action taken on ordinance limiting committee terms; process remains with Mayor
• No action taken on county service sharing; County Board Chair to discuss specifics with County Board

Common Council

The Common Council will discuss using ARPA and General Fund money to cover a 2022 budget deficit. The body is also considering a business loan for a dance school and an alcohol license for a hotel.

• Proposed use of ARPA funds and $50,509 from the General Fund for the 2022 budget deficit
• Proposed $75,000 Economic Development loan for Brooke's School of Dance at 501 W. Main Street
• Alcohol beverage retail license for Abuda WI, LLC dba/Cobblestone Inn & Suites at 3209 E Main St
• Ordinance amending Chapter 2, Article VI, Section 2-148 regarding the Transit Commission
• Appointments to various city commissions including Police and Fire, Zoning Board of Appeals, and City Plan Commission

The Common Council approved using ARPA funds plus $49,509 from the General Fund to cover the 2022 budget deficit, with $77,000 of ARPA funds retained for the 2024 revaluation. The motion passed 6-2. The council also approved an alcohol license for Cobblestone Inn & Suites, a $75,000 economic development loan for Brooke's School of Dance, a policy restricting remote attendance during closed sessions, and an ordinance amendment regarding the Transit Commission.

• Approved using ARPA funds and $49,509 from General Fund for 2022 budget deficit (6-2)
• Approved alcohol beverage retail license for Abuda WI, LLC dba/Cobblestone Inn & Suites
• Approved $75,000 economic development loan for Brooke's School of Dance
• Approved policy excluding remote access for committee members during closed sessions (7-1)
• Approved amended ordinance amending Chapter 2, Article VI, Section 2-148 Transit Commission (8-0)
• Approved Mayor's Appointments with substitution of Kathy Lezotte to Tourism Commission

Community Development Committee

The Community Development Committee will meet to approve minutes, hear public comment, and discuss items. The main action is a possible closed session to review personal financial data for an economic development loan application (File#23001), followed by possible action in open session.

• Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(f) for File#23001 Economic Development Loan application
• Possible open session action on the loan application
• Approval of February 14, 2023 meeting minutes
• Public comment period

The Community Development Committee approved a $75,000 economic development loan to Brooke's School of Dance (File#23001) with a 15-year term at 2% interest, secured by a second position on the property at 501 W. Main Street and limited personal guarantees. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes and held a closed session to review personal financial data related to the loan application before reconvening in open session.

• Approved $75,000 loan to Brooke's School of Dance (File#23001) with 15-year term at 2% interest
• Approved minutes of previous meeting
• Convened closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(f) for personal financial data review (4-0 roll vote)
• Reconvened in open session

Fairgrounds Committee

The Merrill Festival Grounds Committee will meet on April 6, 2023, to discuss updates on the Loyalty Day Celebration, the fair, and the rodeo. The committee will also consider recommendations on facility rental incentives, promoting the grounds, stage accessories, and coordination with the Enrichment Center.

• Discussion and recommendation on facility rental incentive
• Discussion and recommendation of stage accessories
• Consider approval of the minutes from the October 6, 2022 meeting
• Monthly Report from Festival Grounds Manager Bjorklund for April 2023 and November 2022

The committee approved funding for stage steps and rails to allow the city's stage to be rented safely. Discussions regarding facility rental incentives and grounds promotion were tabled for the May agenda.

• Approved $3,100 for stage accessories (carried)
• Approved meeting minutes from October 6, 2022 (carried)
• Tabled facility rental incentive discussion to May agenda
• Tabled promotion of Festival Grounds and facilities to May agenda

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet on April 5, 2023, at 4:15 p.m. in City Hall to approve minutes, claims, and monthly reports, and to discuss a potential bridge connecting Prairie Dells County Park to City Forest and the Emerald Ash Borer Readiness Plan.

• Request permission to dispose of Gravely Trekker UTV
• Discuss and potentially approve concept of connecting bridge from Prairie Dells County Park to City Forest
• Review Emerald Ash Borer Readiness Plan

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved the concept of a pedestrian bridge connecting Prairie Dells County Park to the City Forest, with no cost to the city if the county funds it with ARPA money. They also approved selling the Gravely Trekker UTV on the Wisconsin Surplus site due to high repair costs, and approved the March meeting minutes and claims. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved March meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved March 2023 claims (unanimous)
• Approved placing Gravely Trekker UTV on Wisconsin Surplus site (unanimous)
• Approved concept of connector bridge from Prairie Dells County Park to City Forest (unanimous)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will review monthly reports and vouchers for water, sewer, and street departments. Members will discuss updates to the Street Opening Permit and a request regarding a bank installation.

• Request from BMO Bank to install a pneumatic tube across the alley right-of-way at 900 E Main St.
• Continued discussion and consideration of the West Side Bus Stop.
• Discussion and consideration of an update to the Street Opening Permit.

The Board of Public Works approved an updated street opening permit and granted BMO bank's request to install a pneumatic tube across the alley right-of-way at 900 E Main St, either underground or overhead with 17 feet clearance. The board also placed various vouchers and reports on file, and discussed but took no action on a West Side bus stop concern.

• Approved updated Street Opening permit (unanimous)
• Approved BMO bank pneumatic tube installation at 900 E Main St, underground or overhead at 17 feet (unanimous)
• Placed Water and Sewer vouchers on file (unanimous)
• Placed Water and Sewer monthly report on file (unanimous)
• Approved Street Department vouchers (unanimous)
• Placed monthly reports on file (unanimous)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council and Redevelopment Authority are holding a joint meeting. The main item is a closed session to discuss a potential development concept and incentives for Tax Incremental District (TID) No. 8. They may reconvene in open session to take action on the matter.

• Closed session per Wis. Stats. Sec. 19.85(1)(3) to discuss TID No. 8 development concept and potential incentives
• Possible open session action following closed session

The Common Council and RDA held a joint meeting, entering closed session to discuss TID 8 development and potential incentives. After reconvening, the council approved a $35,000 development incentive for Brooke's Dance Studio to relocate and renovate a vacant building on the west side. The motion passed on an 8/0 roll call vote.

• Approved $35,000 development incentive for Brooke's Dance Studio (8-0)
• Entered closed session to discuss TID 8 development and incentives (12-0)
• Reconvened in open session after closed discussion

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will review a proposal to balance the 2022 budget and update fund transfers. The body will also discuss potential rate increases for pool fills and the write-off of specific unpaid property bills.

• Proposal to balance 2022 budget and update Fund Transfers
• Potential rate increases for pool fills
• Write-off of 2022 personal property bills for John & Kim's Investments ($47.01), Shear Essentials ($47.01), 7 Oaks Bodyworks ($47.01), and Grecian Delight ($47.01)
• Approval of February vouchers

The Personnel & Finance Committee voted 2-1 to use remaining ARPA funds plus $50,509 from the General Fund to address the 2022 budget deficit, while retaining $77,000 of ARPA funds for the 2024 revaluation. The item will be sent to the April 11 Common Council meeting for approval. The committee also referred pool fill rate increases to the April meeting for further evaluation, and approved writing off four 2022 personal property tax bills for out-of-business businesses.

• Approved using remaining ARPA funds and $50,509 from General Fund for 2022 deficit, retaining $77,000 for 2024 revaluation (2-1)
• Referred pool fill rate increase discussion to April Personnel and Finance meeting
• Approved writing off 2022 personal property tax bills for John & Kim's Investments, Shear Essentials, 7 Oaks Bodyworks, and Grecian Delight ($47.01 each)
• Approved February vouchers
• Approved February 28 meeting minutes
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Approved additional 8 weeks of unpaid leave for a city employee (closed session)

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will meet to review nuisance complaints and monthly reports from the fire and police chiefs. Members will discuss potential rate increases for pool fills and the use of a retired ambulance from Tomahawk.

• Discussion of pool fills and potential rate increases
• Discussion on using a retired Tomahawk ambulance as a spare
• Review of the 2022 Annual Report for the Merrill Police Department
• Approval of vouchers
• Review of nuisance complaints

The Health and Safety Committee forwarded the discussion on pool fills and potential rate increases to the Personnel and Finance committee without a recommendation, on a 2/1 voice vote. The committee also approved vouchers and placed monthly reports on file. No action was taken on the retired ambulance from Tomahawk or EMS for Lincoln County.

• Forwarded pool fills and rate increase discussion to Personnel & Finance committee without recommendation (2/1)
• Approved vouchers
• Placed February 27, 2022 minutes on file
• Placed monthly reports on file

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes, hear the administrator's ridership report, discuss partnering with MAPS on student bus discipline, and review a passed grant policy decision. The agenda is mostly routine oversight with one policy discussion item.

• Approve minutes of February 2022 meeting
• Administrator's report on ridership
• Student bus behavior – partner with MAPS for discipline
• P&F Committee Grant Policy Review decision – passed
• Next meeting set for April 17, 2023 at 4:00 p.m.

The Transit Commission approved the February 2023 meeting minutes and the Administrator's report. Members discussed student behavior on buses and the potential combination of student and disruptive behavior policies.

• Approved February 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Administrator's report (unanimous)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is meeting to discuss routine operations, including a survey status update, endowment matters, and its partnership with the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). They will also consider new workshop offerings, a check-in system, and open house ideas. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of February 2023 meeting minutes
• Approval of Feb/March 2023 vouchers
• Survey status update
• Partnership with ADRC: Stockbox/Hunger Task Force reach and new workshop offerings
• Discussion of open house ideas and date

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved spending approximately $1,200 to distribute newsletters via the Foto News to neighboring zip codes, aiming to reach rural residents. The committee also approved February minutes and Feb/March vouchers, and discussed survey distribution, an endowment fund, and an open house. No other formal decisions were made; goals were deferred to April.

• Approved February 2023 minutes (motion by Harvey, second by Bebel)
• Approved Feb/March 2023 vouchers (motion by Akey, second by Baker)
• Approved expense for newsletter distribution via Foto News, approx. $1,200 (motion by Bebel, second by Blake)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will discuss the treatment of the city's logo and tagline, as well as email signatures for officials and departments. The body will also review Town Hall videos and the Merrill Profile Book.

• Logo and tagline treatment
• Email signature examples for departments and elected officials
• Review of Town Hall videos
• Revised Social Media Guidelines
• Proposal to place monthly reports on file

The Marketing & Communications Committee selected a specific font option for the city's logo and tagline. The committee also approved standardized email signatures for elected officials and departments and authorized the public release of Town Hall videos.

• Approved Option B for logo and tagline treatment
• Approved email signatures for departments and elected officials with suggested changes
• Approved making Town Hall videos public for feedback and comments
• Approved placing monthly reports on file
• Approved February 16 meeting minutes

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission is meeting to review the status of the Runway 16/34 project and 2022/23 entitlement projects. Members will discuss and decide on a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the current FBO hangar. The meeting also includes updates on airport signage and the F-84 monument.

• Decision on RFP for Current FBO Hangar
• Status update on Runway 16/34 Project
• Update on Entitlement Projects 2022/23
• Discussion on house sewer service maintenance
• Update on F-84 Monument

The commission approved meeting minutes and vouchers, and moved an office radio to the plow truck. No FAA action on the runway project, and no new bids for the FBO hangar. They agreed to sell model planes for signage and discussed F-84 restoration estimates.

• Approved minutes from Jan 18 and Feb 15, 2023 (all ayes)
• Approved payment of vouchers (all ayes)
• Approved moving office radio to plow truck and installing new antenna (all ayes)
• Agreed to sell Friends of the Airport model planes to fund signage

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee will hold a regular meeting to approve the minutes from its September 21, 2022 session and discuss the schedule for upcoming street sign installations as part of its 2023 projects. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of September 21, 2022 meeting minutes
• Discussion of 2023 street sign installation schedule

The committee approved the minutes from September 21, 2022, and discussed the schedule for honorary street sign installation. Two of eight signs are finished, and families of nominees have been notified. No formal decisions were made on the street signs; the next meeting is set for April 19.

• Approved minutes from September 21, 2022 (motion carried)

Library Board

The T. B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will meet to vote on policies regarding public use of meeting rooms and copying and printing services. The board will also review financial reports and discuss a space needs study.

• Action item: Public Use of Meeting Rooms
• Action item: Reference and Other Copying/Printing
• Action item: Endowment Fund Request for Youth Services
• Action item: 2022 Local Library Report
• Discussion item: MSR Space Needs Study Update

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved several action items, including removing user fees for public meeting rooms to encourage community use, and approved the Reference and Copying/Printing policy. The board also approved an endowment fund request for youth services and the 2022 Local Library Report. No votes were recorded; all approvals were by consensus.

• Approved Public Use of Meeting Rooms action item, removing user fees
• Approved Reference and other Copying/Printing action item
• Approved Endowment Fund Request for Youth Services
• Approved 2022 Local Library Report
• Deferred December 2022 Unaudited Revenue and Expense Report to April 15, 2023

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will vote on several infrastructure contracts, including micro surfacing and paving/reconstruction bids for Webster Street, E. 10th Street, and O'day Street, and will consider an ordinance amending solid waste and recycling regulations. The agenda also includes a temporary picnic license for a Humane Society fundraiser and a policy discussion on remote access to closed sessions.

• Struck & Irwin micro surfacing bid for 2023
• Webster Street paving bid - Northeast Asphalt
• E. 10th Street reconstruction bid - Merrill Gravel and Construction
• O'day Street reconstruction bid - Merrill Gravel and Construction
• Ordinance amending Chapter 16, Section 16-1, 30-31 through 30-32, Solid Waste and Recycling

The Common Council approved several street construction bids, including Webster Street paving to Northeast Asphalt and E. 10th Street reconstruction to Merrill Gravel and Construction (6-1). The O'day Street reconstruction bid to Merrill Gravel and Construction was approved on a narrow 4-3 roll call vote. The council also approved a temporary picnic license for the Lincoln County Humane Society and adopted an amended solid waste and recycling ordinance.

• Approved Webster Street paving bid to Northeast Asphalt
• Approved E. 10th Street reconstruction bid to Merrill Gravel and Construction (6-1)
• Approved O'day Street reconstruction bid to Merrill Gravel and Construction (4-3)
• Approved temporary Class B picnic license for Lincoln County Humane Society
• Adopted amended solid waste and recycling ordinance (7-0)
• Approved policy to exclude remote access for closed sessions
• Approved February 2023 Revenue and Expense reports
• Approved resolution honoring Steve P. Willis

Parks and Recreation Commission

The commission will meet to review and approve bids for pickleball courts at Ott’s Park. Members will also consider a proposal for waste collection at athletic fields and park shelters.

• Bids for Ott’s Park Pickleball Courts
• Proposal for waste collection/removal for park shelters and athletic fields

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved bids for pickleball court construction at Ott's Park and a plan to use 96-gallon garbage carts for park waste collection. Both motions passed unanimously. The commission also approved February claims and meeting minutes.

• Approved American Asphalt of Wisconsin bid for $97,500 for pickleball court surfacing (unanimous)
• Approved American Fence Company bid for $40,000 including netting for pickleball courts (unanimous)
• Approved plan to use 96-gallon garbage carts for park waste collection where feasible (unanimous)
• Approved February 2023 claims (unanimous)
• Approved February meeting minutes (unanimous)

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will review procedures and marketing for its $10,000 new housing incentive program, discuss applications, and consider costs for redeveloping the former Anson-Gilkey property at 401 S. Kyes St. The meeting also includes a closed session to discuss a potential TID No. 8 development concept and incentives.

• Review of $10,000 new housing incentive program procedure and marketing
• Update on new housing incentive applications
• Discussion of wetland delineation and market analysis for 401 S. Kyes St property (TID No. 9)
• Closed session on potential TID No. 8 development concept and incentives
• Approval of February 1st RDA minutes

The Redevelopment Authority approved funding for a wetland delineation to facilitate the redevelopment of the former Anson-Gilkey property. The board also reviewed the status of current residential developments and the $10,000 new housing incentive program.

• Approved wetland delineation for 401 S. Kyes Street property
• Approved February 1, 2023 meeting minutes
• Moved to closed session to discuss TID No. 8 development (6-0)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will vote on routine vouchers and reports, and discuss a proposed cart fee update and a concern about the West Side Bus Stop. They will also consider bids for micro surfacing and for the Webster Street paving, E 10th Street reconstruction, and O'Day Street reconstruction projects.

• Consider 2023 Micro Surfacing Bids
• Discuss and consider bids for Webster Street paving, E 10th Street reconstruction, O'Day Street reconstruction
• Discussion and consideration on proposed cart fee update
• Discussion and consideration on West Side Bus Stop concern
• Approve minutes from January 25, 2023

The Board of Public Works approved bids for the E 10th Street and O’day Street reconstructions, as well as Webster Street paving and micro surfacing. A proposed update to recycling and garbage cart fees was accepted and sent to the Common Council.

• Approved micro surfacing bid for Struck and Irwin Paving, Inc.
• Approved Webster Street paving bid from Northeast Asphalt, Inc. (3-1)
• Approved E 10th Street reconstruction bid from Merrill Gravel Construction for $685,326.75 (3-1)
• Approved O’day Street reconstruction bid from Merrill Gravel Construction for $506,039.13 (3-1)
• Accepted proposed cart fee update and sent to Common Council
• Approved Water and Sewer and Street Department vouchers
• Tabled West Side bus stop concern until April meeting

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Merrill Personnel and Finance Committee will review and vote on writing off unpaid personal property taxes from 2021 and 2011 for Kozy Korner LLC and 2022 for Wit's End Day Spa. They will also discuss selling a pool car, remote participation in closed sessions, and updates on the 2022 budget and revenue reports.

• Write off 2021 & 2011 personal property taxes for Kozy Korner LLC
• Write off 2022 personal property tax bill for Wit's End Day Spa (out of business)
• Discuss sale of one pool car to Wisconsin Surplus Auction
• Consider Finance Director proposal to balance 2022 budget and fund transfers
• Review December 2022 Revenue & Expense Reports (Revised) from February 14th Common Council

The Personnel & Finance Committee approved January vouchers, a tax write-off for Wit's End Day Spa, and the sale of a 2015 Ford Fusion pool car on the Wisconsin Surplus Auction. It also directed the City Attorney to draft a closed session policy excluding remote access. No action was taken on the 2022 budget balancing proposal or revenue/expense reports, which were tabled for further discussion.

• Approved January vouchers (motion carried)
• Approved writing off 2022 personal property tax for Wit's End Day Spa (motion carried)
• Approved sale of 2015 Ford Fusion pool car on Wisconsin Surplus Auction (motion carried)
• Directed City Attorney to create closed session policy excluding remote access (motion carried)

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will review temporary Class "B" license applications and monthly reports from city services. The body may enter a closed session to negotiate EMS contract language and equipment purchases.

• Temporary Class "B" license application for Merrill Historical Society (March 11, 2023) at 303 N Sales St
• Temporary Class "B" license application for Lincoln County Humane Society (March 18) at 404 S. Park St
• Closed session for Lincoln County/City of Merrill Emergency Medical Services contract language
• Closed session for potential EMS service equipment purchases
• Review of nuisance complaints and vouchers

The Health and Safety Committee approved temporary Class "B" alcohol licenses for the Merrill Historical Society and the Lincoln County Humane Society. The committee also approved vouchers and placed monthly reports from the Fire Chief, Police Chief, and Humane Society on file. A closed session was held to discuss Emergency Medical Services contracts and equipment, but no formal decisions were made during that private meeting.

• Approved temporary Class "B" license for Merrill Historical Society (voice vote)
• Approved temporary Class "B" license for Lincoln County Humane Society (voice vote)
• Approved vouchers (voice vote)
• Placed January 23, 2022 minutes on file (voice vote)
• Placed monthly reports on file (voice vote)
• Entered closed session to discuss EMS contracts and equipment (3-0 vote)

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will review brand guidelines, consider tagline options presented by Scott Steele, and hear updates from the marketing and social media specialists. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and public comment.

• Review of Brand Guidelines
• Presentation of Tagline Options by Scott Steele
• Presentation by Sarah Sturm on SHRPA
• Monthly reports from Marketing Specialist Kuczmarski and Social Media Specialist Savall
• Consideration of placing monthly reports on file

The Marketing & Communications Committee chose tagline Option A with increased letter spacing for the city's branding, directing staff to make corrections and present the final version in March. The committee also approved the January 26 meeting minutes and placed monthly reports on file. Other items, including a travel platform presentation and social media updates, were discussed without formal action.

• Approved January 26 meeting minutes
• Selected tagline Option A with more letter spacing
• Placed monthly reports on file

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will review January 2023 meeting minutes and vouchers, discuss survey drafts, and hear updates on the Strong Bodies program, upcoming classes, and ADRC operations.

• Approval of January 2023 meeting minutes
• Approval of January and February 2023 vouchers
• Final draft of survey and response from MHA
• Strong Bodies update and upcoming classes/workshops
• Setting a date for the open house

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved the January 2023 minutes and Jan/Feb vouchers, and discussed the next Festival of Quilts scheduled for August 2024. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on operational updates, including a survey draft, Strong Bodies program, and community outreach.

• Approved January 2023 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Jan/Feb 2023 vouchers (motion carried)

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission is meeting to discuss the status of the Runway 16/34 project and entitlement projects for 2022/23. The body will also make a decision regarding a large hangar south of the terminal.

• Decision on large hangar south of terminal
• Runway 16/34 Project status
• Update on 2022/23 Entitlement Projects
• Update to Airport Signage
• Discussion on house sewer service maintenance

The commission approved the construction of a large hangar south of the terminal. Members also approved the January meeting minutes and payment of vouchers.

• Approved construction of 80' x 100' hangar on the lot by public entrance (All ayes)
• Approved January 18, 2023 meeting minutes (All ayes)
• Approved payment of presented vouchers (All ayes)

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to approve past meeting minutes, review monthly financial reports, and discuss library operations including the annual report to the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, endowment fund status, and space needs. No major decisions are scheduled.

• Approval of December 2022 and January 2023 monthly revenue and expense reports
• Action Item: WI DPI Public Library Annual Report
• Action Item: Endowment Fund Report
• Action Item: Short-Term Investments
• Space Needs Study Update

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees approved the WI DPI Public Library Annual Report, a Statement Concerning Public Library System, and the Endowment Fund Report. They also discussed a space needs study and potential investment changes, but took no action on those items. The board noted a typo in the January minutes and deferred the December 2022 revenue and expense report to March.

• Approved minutes of January 18, 2023, with date correction (unanimous)
• Accepted monthly Revenue and Expense Report for January 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved WI DPI Public Library Annual Report (unanimous)
• Approved Statement Concerning Public Library System (unanimous)
• Approved Endowment Fund Report (unanimous)
• Deferred December 2022 Revenue and Expense Report to March 16, 2023

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will discuss future budgeting strategies for the City Administrator role and how to proceed with the position. A closed session will evaluate interim administrators Rod Akey and Corey Bennett before reconvening in open session.

• Discussion on future City Administrator budgeting strategies
• Discussion on how to proceed with the City Administrator position
• Closed session to evaluate interim administrators Rod Akey and Corey Bennett

The Committee of the Whole discussed the City Administrator position and its financing, with concerns about tight budgets and funding through TIDs and water/sewer funds. No decision was made; the topic will be revisited in May after the February Personnel & Finance meeting. The council entered closed session to discuss interim administrators' performance but took no action and did not reconvene in open session.

• Discussed City Administrator position funding; no action taken
• Agreed to revisit City Administrator discussion at next Committee of the Whole
• Moved to closed session to discuss interim administrators' performance (9-0)
• Adjourned from closed session without reconvening in open session

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will vote on disallowing three claims against the city, approve a conditional use permit for a storage facility, and authorize a development agreement with JJ Premier LLC. It will also discuss the City Administrator position and review the 2015 Grant Policy.

• Claims by Barbara Doering, Steven Anderson, and Matthew Davis recommended for disallowance
• Conditional Use Permit for Maria Zoa, storage facility at 300 E 2nd Street
• Development agreement with JJ Premier LLC (Phase 3)
• Temporary alcohol license for St. Francis Xavier fish fries
• Alcohol license for D's Dogs at 608 E 2nd Street #B

The Common Council approved a development agreement with JJ Premier LLC for Phase 3 of a single-family home project, including transfer of five lots on Parkview Drive and an incentive payment up to $50,000. Claims by Barbara Doering and Matthew Davis were denied, while Steven Anderson's claim was also denied. A vending machine in City Hall Lobby was approved, along with alcohol licenses for St. Francis Xavier and D's Dogs.

• Approved development agreement with JJ Premier LLC (Phase 3) for up to 15 new homes (motion carried)
• Denied claim filed by Barbara Doering (no motion made)
• Denied claim filed by Steven Anderson per insurance carrier recommendation (motion carried)
• Denied claim filed by Matthew Davis (motion carried)
• Approved placing a vending machine in City Hall Lobby (motion carried)
• Approved 2015 Grant Policy with revisions (motion carried)
• Approved temporary Class B retailer's license for St. Francis Xavier (motion carried)
• Approved Alcohol Beverage Retail license for D's Dogs (motion carried)

Community Development Committee

The Community Development Committee will review the 2022 community development growth report, hear updates on the Community Development Block Grant housing and economic development programs, and review proposed changes to the Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund Procedure Manual. The committee may also enter closed session to discuss delinquent business loans and collection procedures, then possibly act on those items in open session.

• Review of Community Development Growth in 2022 report
• Update on Community Development Block Grant housing and Economic Development Program
• Distribution of agreement between City of Merrill and Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation
• Proposed changes to Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund Procedure Manual
• Possible closed session to discuss delinquent business loans and collection procedures

The Community Development Committee approved all redlined proposed changes to the City of Merrill Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund Manual. The committee also received updates on 2022 growth, housing and economic development activities, and an agreement with Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation, but took no action on these items. One delinquent Emergency Covid Business Loan was noted, with future review and possible legal action planned.

• Approved all redlined changes to the Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund Manual (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting (motion carried)
• No action on 2022 Community Development Growth report
• No action on housing and economic development activities update
• No action on agreement with Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation
• No action on delinquent Emergency Covid Business Loan; future review planned

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will meet on February 13, 2023, to discuss items including student bus behavior with MAPS discipline partnership and a P&F Committee Grant Policy Review. The commission will also review the administrator's report on ridership, the tour of lights, and the 2022 fourth quarter report.

• Student bus behavior and partnership with MAPS for discipline
• P&F Committee Grant Policy Review
• Administrator's report including ridership, tour of lights review, and 2022 4th Quarter Report

The Merrill Transit Commission met on February 13, 2023, and unanimously approved the December 2022 minutes and the administrator's report. The report noted ridership up 4% year-to-date and strong fourth-quarter numbers. No other formal decisions were made; discussions covered student behavior and a grant policy review.

• Approved December 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved administrator's report (unanimous)

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will meet to consider placing the January 3, 2023 meeting minutes on file and will reconsider a conditional use permit for a storage facility requested by Maria Zoa at 300 E 2nd Street.

• Reconsider conditional use for a storage facility by Maria Zoa at 300 E 2nd Street (former Park City Credit Union)

The City Plan Commission voted 4-2 to approve a conditional use permit for a storage facility at 300 E 2nd Street, with conditions including a 60' x 120' building, a 48' x 36' maintenance shop, removal of the drive-thru overhang, brick/wood materials, earth-tone colors, landscaping, and construction start by June 2023 and completion by June 2024. The permit will be forwarded to the Common Council. The motion was made by Alderperson Sabatke and seconded by Ryan Schwartzman; Mayor Hass and Kyle Gulke voted no.

• Approved conditional use permit for storage facility at 300 E 2nd St (4-2)
• Set conditions: 60' x 120' building, 48' x 36' maintenance shop, no drive-thru overhang
• Required brick/wood materials, earth-tone colors, 4' brick, landscaping
• Mandated construction start by June 2023 and completion by June 2024
• Required renderings with 4 elevations and image of east side fence
• Forwarded permit to Common Council

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to approve minutes, claims, and bids for a new front mower, discuss 2023-2024 budget challenges, and review operating hours for the Bierman Family Aquatic Center. The commission will also discuss waste removal options for park shelters, approve a trail route, and potentially approve property acquisition along the River Bend Trail.

• Review and approve bids for new front mower
• Discuss 2023-2024 budgetary challenges and potential solutions
• Review and approve Bierman Family Aquatic Center operating hours for 2023 season
• Review and potentially approve property acquisition from MADC along the River Bend Trail
• Review route for River Bend to Prairie Trails Connector Trail

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved a $62,209.98 bid from Riesterer & Schnell for a new front mower, and voted 6-1 to close the Bierman Aquatic Center on Mondays in 2023 due to budget constraints. They also accepted an 8.56-acre property donation from MADC along the River Bend Trail. No decision was made on waste removal options or the connector trail route, which were tabled for further discussion.

• Approved $62,209.98 front mower bid from Riesterer & Schnell (unanimous)
• Closed Bierman Aquatic Center on Mondays in 2023 (6-1, Ravn no)
• Accepted 8.56-acre property donation from MADC along River Bend Trail (unanimous)
• Approved December 2022 and January 2023 claims (unanimous)
• Tabled waste removal options for park shelters
• Tabled River Bend to Prairie Trails Connector Trail route approval

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will meet to consider approving meeting minutes from December 2022, a development agreement with JJ Premier LLC for Phase 3 of a project in Tax Increment District No. 11, and updates on 2023 tax increment funds and 2022 developments. The Authority will also review procedures for a $10,000 new housing incentive program.

• Development agreement with JJ Premier LLC (Phase 3) in TID No. 11
• Tax increment update for 2023 budgets
• 2022 developments review
• $10,000 new housing incentive program procedures

The Redevelopment Authority recommended a resolution authorizing a development agreement with JJ Premier, LLC for Phase 3 of new home construction on Parkview Drive, including five remaining lots and a $10,000 housing incentive per home. The motion carried. The RDA also received updates on tax increment funds and 2022 developments, and deferred a marketing discussion for the housing incentive program to the next meeting.

• Approved minutes from December 7, 2022 meeting
• Recommended resolution for development agreement with JJ Premier, LLC (Phase 3) - TID No. 11
• Deferred housing incentive marketing discussion to March 1, 2023 meeting

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Merrill Marketing & Communications Committee will discuss and decide on 2023 digital marketing spending, a new city logo and tagline rollout, and review the redesigned city homepage. The meeting also includes updates on social media policy, monthly reports, and a Town Hall video recap.

• Consider approval of December 19th meeting minutes
• Discuss 2023 digital marketing spending with The Digital Ring and Spectrum Marketing Strategy
• Review Merrill Logo/Tagline Rollout 2023 plan
• Presentation and discussion of the City's redesigned homepage
• Consider placing monthly reports on file

The Marketing & Communications Committee met on January 26, 2023, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. They discussed the social media policy, agreeing to rename it to 'social media guidelines' for further work. The committee recommended deferring all three digital marketing proposals to a future meeting, possibly in May. No other substantive decisions were made; other items were informational or for discussion.

• Approved December 19, 2022 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Renamed social media policy to social media guidelines (discussion)
• Referred all three digital marketing proposals to a future meeting, possibly May (recommendation)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion carried)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will meet to discuss operational reports and vouchers for water, sewer, and street departments. Key discussions include PFAS testing plans and special assessment procedures for sidewalk maintenance.

• Plans for testing for PFAS
• Special Assessment procedures for the sidewalk maintenance program
• Discussion on recycling
• Discussion on City owned lots
• Proposal to place a vending machine in the City Hall lobby

The Board of Public Works approved routine vouchers and monthly reports, and forwarded a proposal for a vending machine in City Hall lobby to the Council with the Board's approval. Discussions were held on recycling options, special assessment procedures for sidewalk maintenance, PFAS testing, and city-owned lots, but no final decisions were made on these topics.

• Approved November 30, 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved Street Department vouchers
• Approved Water and Sewer vouchers
• Placed monthly reports on file
• Forwarded vending machine proposal to Council with Board approval

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will meet to approve past meeting minutes and vouchers, discuss 2022 outreach outcomes and financial results, and review a draft survey. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of November 2022 meeting minutes
• Approval of December 2022/January 2023 vouchers
• Review of 2022 year-end financial numbers
• Review of first draft survey questions

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved the November 2022 minutes and December 2022/January 2023 vouchers. The director reported holiday meal numbers and a $442 donation to Lincoln County Christmas Spirit. The committee discussed a draft survey to understand why some residents don't attend activities and brainstormed outreach ideas, including nursing home cards and an open house. No major policy decisions were made.

• Approved November 2022 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved December 2022/January 2023 vouchers (motion carried)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will meet to approve vouchers, discuss a 2015 grant policy, consider writing off a duplicate 2022 tax bill, and review plans to sell three squad cars via state surplus auctions. Monthly reports from city departments will also be filed.

• Review and discuss the 2015 Grant Policy
• Write off duplicate 2022 personal property tax bill - Merrill FotoNews
• Request to sell and dispose of 3 squad cars in 2023 via Wisconsin Surplus Auctions
• Consider accumulated sick leave payable at retirement
• Place monthly reports on file

The Personnel & Finance Committee approved a revised grant policy requiring committee approval for non-annual grants and final reports for grants over $50,000, to be referred to the February Common Council meeting. It also approved writing off a duplicate 2022 personal property tax bill for Merrill FotoNews, selling three squad cars via Wisconsin Surplus Auctions, and placing monthly reports on file. The committee discussed accumulated sick leave payable at retirement but took no action, deciding to revisit it in July for budget discussions.

• Approved revised grant policy (motion carried)
• Approved writing off duplicate 2022 personal property tax bill for Merrill FotoNews (motion carried)
• Approved selling 3 squad cars via Wisconsin Surplus Auctions (motion carried)
• Approved November and December vouchers (motion carried)
• Approved November 29th Regular and Closed meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion carried)
• Tabled sick leave discussion until July budget talks (no vote)

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will consider an alcohol beverage retail license for D's Dogs & Pizza and a Temporary Class B license for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church fish fries. The committee will also review nuisance complaints, vouchers, and monthly reports from the police chief, fire chief, and Humane Society.

• Consider alcohol beverage retail license for D's Dogs & Pizza (Systemetic Solutions LLC) at 608 E 2nd Street #B
• Consider Temporary "Class B" license for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church for fish fries at 1708 E 10th Street on select dates in February and March 2023
• Review nuisance complaints for October and November
• Review vouchers for November and December 2022
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and the Humane Society

The Health and Safety Committee approved an alcohol beverage retail license for D's Dogs & Pizza (Systemetic Solutions LLC) at 68 E 2nd Street #B, and a temporary Class B license for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church for their February and March fish fries. The committee also approved vouchers, placed minutes and monthly reports on file, and set the next meeting for February 27 at 5:15 p.m.

• Approved alcohol beverage retail license for D's Dogs & Pizza (unanimous)
• Approved temporary Class B license for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church fish fries (unanimous)
• Approved vouchers (unanimous)
• Placed November 28, 2022 minutes on file (unanimous)
• Placed monthly reports on file (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will meet to approve meeting minutes, vouchers, and receive updates on the Runway 16/34 project, entitlement projects from 2022, signage, and the F-84 monument. General maintenance and reports from the chairman and aviation updates will also be discussed.

• Runway 16/34 Project Status update
• Update on Entitlement Projects from 2022
• Update on Airport Signage
• Update on F-84 Monument
• Airport General Maintenance discussion

The Merrill Airport Commission met on January 18, 2023, and approved the December 2023 minutes. No substantive decisions were made; most agenda items had no report. The sale of the RRL/FBO Hangar is under review, and a future hangar construction request by Jim Berg was noted for approval at a later meeting.

• Approved December 2023 minutes (motion by Schulz, second by Banser)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Schulz, second by Weix)

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting on January 18, 2023, at 4:00 p.m. in the Library Community Room. The board will take action on several policies, including an inclement weather policy and a fines/fees policy, and will consider two endowment fund requests for electronic announcement and library name signs. Other items include a request to close the library for staff development, a disclaimer of interest in the Nathan Kloske Estate, and updates on the space needs study and long-range planning.

• Action on Inclement Weather Policy
• Action on Fines/Fees Policy
• Endowment Fund Request for Electronic Announcement Sign
• Endowment Fund Request for Library Name Sign
• Disclaimer of Entire Interest in the Nathan Kloske Estate

The Board approved new Inclement Weather and Fines/Fees policies, as well as funding requests for electronic and name signs. The Board also authorized the disclaimer of interest in the Nathan Kloske Estate and approved staff development closures.

• Approved Inclement Weather Policy
• Approved Fines/Fees Policy
• Approved Amended Fund Request for Electronic Announcement Sign
• Approved Endowment Fund Request for Library Name Sign
• Approved Library Closure Request for Annual Staff Development
• Approved Disclaimer of Entire Interest in the Nathan Kloske Estate
• Approved December 21, 2022 meeting minutes
• Deferred December 2022 Revenue and Expense Report to February 16, 2023

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss and review the Social Media Specialist agreement, hear public comment, and may enter closed session to consider an offer and potential sale/purchase agreement of airport property. They may reconvene in open session for action or consideration from the closed session.

• Discussion and review of Social Media Specialist agreement
• Closed session to consider offer and potential sale/purchase agreement of airport property
• Public comment period

The Committee of the Whole approved a Social Media Specialist agreement and forwarded it to the Common Council. The committee also approved a Request for Proposal (RFP) concept for the sale of a city building, forwarding it to the Council. Both actions were taken during the meeting, with the RFP concept approved twice (once in closed session and again in open session).

• Approved Social Media Specialist agreement, forwarded to Common Council (8-1)
• Approved RFP concept for sale of a city building, forwarded to Council (9-0, closed session)
• Approved RFP concept for sale of a city building, forwarded to Council (9-0, open session)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet to approve minutes from the December 13 meeting and consider a revised city tagline. They will also discuss potential actions on airport property and a social media specialist agreement, along with committee reports.

• Approve minutes from December 13, 2022 Common Council meeting
• Consider revised city tagline: "Experience more to life"
• Potential action on Committee of the Whole matter relating to Airport property
• Potential action on Committee of the Whole matter relating to Social Media Specialist agreement
• Place committee reports on file: TB Scott Library Board, Merrill Enrichment Center, Transit Commission, Marketing & Communications Committee

The Common Council voted 6-2 to refer a conditional use permit back to the City Plan Commission, overriding an initial motion to deny it. The council also approved an RFP concept for selling a city-owned airport building, a Social Media Specialist agreement, and a revised city tagline.

• Referred conditional use permit back to City Plan Commission (6-2)
• Approved RFP concept for sale of city-owned airport building
• Approved Social Media Specialist agreement (7-1)
• Approved revised tagline 'Experience more to life' (7-1)
• Placed committee reports on file

City Plan Commission

The City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use request for a storage facility. The body will also consider placing previous meeting minutes on file.

• Public hearing for interior and exterior storage facility at 300 E 2nd Street (former Park City Credit Union)

The City Plan Commission denied a conditional use permit for the development of interior and exterior storage facilities at the former Park City Credit Union. The decision followed a public hearing featuring testimony from residents and the potential buyer.

• Approved November 1st meeting minutes
• Denied conditional use permit for storage facility at 300 E 2nd Street (4-3)