Merrill public meetings in 2024

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting to discuss airport operations and finances. Key items include a discussion on the Runway 16/34 project, a proposed refund to Dale Kanitz for an overpayment on a T-hangar, and updates on maintenance issues such as lightning damage and deer ramps. The commission will also review the November revenue and expense report and receive updates on the master plan and economic impact study.

• Discussion of Runway 16/34 project
• Refund to Dale Kanitz for T-hangar overpayment
• Jet A fuel truck repair or sale update
• Lightning damage update and deer ramp status
• November revenue/expense report review

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board will review and possibly approve an endowment fund request for an RFID system project, along with resolutions granting account access for the Endowment Fund and Zander Trust. The board will also discuss strategic goals and library director certification requirements. The meeting includes routine consent items such as minutes, vouchers, and monthly reports.

• Endowment Fund Request for RFID System Project
• Endowment Fund Board Resolution Granting Account Access Authority
• Zander Trust Board Resolution Granting Account Access Authority
• Strategic Goals & Action Steps #2 Review
• Wisconsin Trustee Essential #19: Library Director Certification

The Merrill Library Board approved an endowment-funded RFID system project to replace the outdated security and patron counter system, which will enable accurate annual reporting to the state and regular inventory. The board also approved resolutions granting account access authority for the Endowment Fund and Zander Trust, and discussed hiring temporary staff for the tagging process. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Endowment Fund Request for RFID System Project (unanimous)
• Approved Endowment Fund Board Resolution Granting Account Access Authority (unanimous)
• Approved Zander Trust Board Resolution Granting Account Access Authority (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 20, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved vouchers for November 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved Unaudited Monthly Income & Expense Report for November 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved Monthly Statistical Report for November 2024 (unanimous)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will hold its regular meeting to approve the minutes from the previous meeting and receive the administrator's report. The body will also consider setting the 2025 holiday schedule for transit services.

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet to discuss routine reports, personnel actions, and surplus property decisions. The Personnel & Finance Committee recommends lifting a hiring freeze for a Street Department mechanic and approving several asset sales through the Wisconsin Surplus Auction.

• Lift hiring freeze for Street Department mechanic
• Transfer duty weapons to officers via FFL dealer for up to $275
• Dispose of 2020 F150 through Wisconsin Surplus Auction
• Maintain Police Department Administrative Assistant/Evidence Manager position after retirement
• Allow 800-hour max sick leave payout for future non-union hires

The Common Council approved several personnel and finance items, including lifting the hiring freeze for a Street Department mechanic, transferring duty weapons to officers via an FFL dealer, disposing of a 2020 F150, maintaining the Administrative Assistant/Evidence Manager position, and changing sick leave payout rules for future non-union employees. All motions passed, with one no vote on the position maintenance.

• Approved lifting hiring freeze for Street Department mechanic
• Approved transferring duty weapons to officers via FFL dealer (max $275 each)
• Approved disposing of 2020 F150 via Wisconsin Surplus Auction
• Approved maintaining Administrative Assistant/Evidence Manager position (4-1, M. Caylor no)
• Approved max bankable sick leave 800 hours with PEP payout for future non-union employees

Joint Review Board

The Merrill Joint Review Board will meet to approve minutes from the November 12 meeting and consider four resolutions that amend project plans for Tax Incremental Districts 6, 7, 11, and 12. The board will also review public records and planning documents.

• Resolution Approving an Amended Project Plan for Tax Incremental District No. 6
• Resolution Approving an Amended Project Plan for Tax Incremental District No. 7
• Resolution Approving an Amended Project Plan for Tax Incremental District No. 11
• Resolution Approving an Amended Project Plan for Tax Incremental District No. 12

The Joint Review Board approved amended project plans for Tax Incremental Districts No. 6, 7, 11, and 12, each by unanimous vote. The board also placed the November 12 meeting minutes on file. No public comment was received, and the meeting adjourned at 5:35 pm.

• Approved minutes from November 12 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved amended project plan for TID No. 6 (unanimous)
• Approved amended project plan for TID No. 7 (unanimous)
• Approved amended project plan for TID No. 11 (unanimous)
• Approved amended project plan for TID No. 12 (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes and claims, receive a director's report, and discuss an update on a bridge project connecting Prairie Dells County Park to the City Forest. They will also review the commission's authority and responsibilities. The meeting is largely procedural, with the bridge project as the main substantive item.

• Update on bridge project connecting Prairie Dells County Park to City Forest
• Review of Commission authority and responsibilities
• Approval of November 2024 minutes
• Approval of November 2024 claims
• December 2024 Director's Report

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss heating issues at the Street Department, options for the City Attorney position after the current attorney's retirement, and a review of the city's Strategic Plan. The committee may also enter closed session to discuss potential real estate acquisition, with possible action afterward.

• Discuss heating issues at the Street Department
• Discuss options for City Attorney position after City Attorney Hayden's retirement
• Review and discuss Merrill's Strategic Plan
• Closed session for potential acquisition of real estate
• Place October meeting minutes on file

The Committee of the Whole held a discussion-only meeting with no substantive decisions. They approved placing October meeting minutes on file, discussed heating issues at the Street Department without action, and reviewed options for the City Attorney position after retirement, with an RFP to be drafted for future review. The committee also reviewed the Strategic Plan and will submit revisions. A closed session was held to discuss potential real estate acquisition, but no action was taken afterward.

• Approved placing October meeting minutes on file (motion passed)
• Discussed Street Department heating issues; no action taken
• Discussed City Attorney succession; RFP to be drafted for future review
• Reviewed Strategic Plan; revisions to be submitted by committee
• Held closed session for real estate acquisition discussion; no action taken

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Merrill Marketing & Communications Committee will meet to discuss and consider the September and October revenue and expense reports, review any marketing-related revisions to the strategic plan, and receive an update on the approved 2025 budget. Monthly reports from the Social Media Specialist and Midwest Communications will also be presented.

• Review September and October revenue and expense reports
• Consider strategic plan revisions related to marketing
• Receive update on approved 2025 budget
• Monthly reports from Social Media Specialist and Midwest Communications
• Place monthly reports on file

The Marketing & Communications Committee met and approved the October 17 minutes and placed monthly reports on file. No substantive policy decisions were made; items were informational updates only, including the Social Media Specialist role change effective January 1, 2025, and updates on the Tour of Lights and Chamber of Commerce events.

• Approved October 17 meeting minutes (motion by Rutkowski, second by Lass)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion by Rutkowski, second by Lass)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Enrichment Center Committee will meet to review year-to-date attendance and the budget. Members will discuss holiday outreach and new program offerings for 2025.

• Approval of September 2024 meeting minutes
• Approval of September 2024 - November 2024 vouchers
• Thanksgiving Outreach and Christmas Joy planning
• Parkinson’s group discussion
• Review of year-to-date attendance numbers

The committee heard that ADRC funding cuts will eliminate some programs and reduce Meals on Wheels by 40,000 meals, with the Marshfield ADRC closing its physical office around March 2025. They approved September minutes and vouchers, and discussed strategies to boost attendance and plan 2025 events. No formal votes were taken on policy items.

• Approved September 2024 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved September-November 2024 vouchers (motion carried)
• Discussed ADRC funding cuts and their impact on programs
• Planned Christmas Joy celebration for December 19
• Brainstormed ideas to increase attendance and new 2025 offerings

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will meet to approve vouchers for water/sewer and street departments, review monthly reports from city staff, and discuss an alley at 1814 River St. No formal decisions are listed beyond procedural approvals.

• Approve Water & Sewer Vouchers
• Approve Street Department Vouchers
• Discussion on alley at 1814 River St.
• Monthly reports from City Administrator, Building Inspector, and Street Superintendent
• Place monthly reports on file

The Board of Public Works approved the Water & Sewer and Street Department vouchers, and placed monthly reports on file. Discussion of the alley at 1814 River St. resulted in no action, with staff to work with the resident on drainage ideas. The meeting was procedural, with no other substantive decisions.

• Approved Water & Sewer vouchers (motion passed)
• Approved Street Department vouchers (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)
• No action taken on alley at 1814 River St.

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board will hold its regular meeting on November 20, 2024, to review and approve the General Objectives Policy, discuss strategic goals and actions, and examine Wisconsin Trustee Essential #18 regarding board appointments and composition. The meeting is procedural with no major decisions expected.

The Merrill Library Board approved the General Objectives Policy as revised to reflect the correct approval date of 11/20/24. All consent items, including the October meeting minutes, vouchers, and financial reports, were approved unanimously. No public comment was received, and no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved General Objectives Policy with corrected date (unanimous)
• Approved October 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October 2024 vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved October 2024 unaudited income & expense report (unanimous)
• Approved October 2024 monthly statistical report (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes and October vouchers, and discuss several operational items. Key topics include the Runway 16/34 project, the status of deer ramps, and the repair or sale of the Jet A fuel truck. The commission will also consider transferring a ground lease for hangar 18 from Hatz to Roth and ending a ground lease reservation for Bright Silver LLC.

• Discussion of Runway 16/34 project
• Jet A fuel truck repair/sale and transfer to the City
• Transfer of ground lease for hangar 18 from Hatz to Roth
• Ending ground lease reservation of Bright Silver LLC
• Approval of October vouchers

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider approving vouchers and discuss several administrative items, including disposing of surplus police equipment and a 2020 F150 squad car, replacing an Administrative Assistant/Evidence Manager pending retirement, and policies on future hires and sick/vacation buy-outs. They will also set the 2025 holiday schedule and receive monthly reports from city officials.

• Approval of vouchers
• Disposal of previous duty weapons and surplus ammunition
• Disposal of 2020 F150 squad
• Replacing Administrative Assistant/Evidence Manager position pending retirement
• Discussion on 2025 holiday schedule

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved several items to forward to the December Council, including transferring duty weapons to officers via an FFL dealer at no more than $275, disposing of a 2020 F150 squad through Wisconsin Surplus Auction, keeping the Administrative Assistant/Evidence Manager position after retirement, and setting future sick leave/PEP payout limits for non-union hires. The committee also approved closing city offices on December 26, 2025, and placed monthly reports on file. No public comment was made.

• Approved transfer of duty weapons to officers via FFL dealer at ≤$275, with surplus to Wisconsin Surplus Auction (forwarded to Council)
• Approved disposal of 2020 F150 squad via Wisconsin Surplus Auction (forwarded to Council)
• Approved keeping Administrative Assistant/Evidence Manager position in Police Department (forwarded to Council)
• Approved future non-union hires: max 800 hours bankable sick leave and 800 hours PEP payout (forwarded to Council)
• Approved city offices closed on December 26, 2025
• Approved placing monthly reports on file

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding a regular meeting with no substantive action items listed. The agenda includes public comment, approval of minutes, an administrator's report, and scheduling the next meeting for December 16, 2024. No specific decisions or proposals are detailed.

• Public comment period
• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Administrator's report
• Next meeting set for December 16, 2024 at 4:00 PM

The Merrill Transit Commission met and approved the previous meeting's minutes. The administrator reported 5,290 rides in October, with one part-time operator short and one in training, zero extended service area rides, and three free rides provided to voters. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion by Kunkel, second by Weber)

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will meet to discuss nuisance complaints and consider approving vouchers. The body will also receive monthly reports from the Fire Chief, Police Chief, and Lincoln County Humane Society.

• Review of nuisance complaints
• Approval of vouchers
• Monthly report from Fire Chief Klug
• Monthly report from Police Chief Bennett
• Monthly report from Lincoln County Humane Society

The Health and Safety Committee approved the vouchers as presented and placed the monthly reports from the Fire Chief, Police Chief, and Lincoln County Humane Society on file. No other substantive decisions were made; the October meeting minutes were deferred to the next packet.

• Approved vouchers (motion by Caylor, second by Weix)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion by Weix, second by Caylor)

Redevelopment Authority

The Redevelopment Authority is holding a special meeting to discuss amending project plans for four Tax Incremental Districts. The proposed amendments would allow these districts to share increment with other districts.

• Public hearing and possible action on Project Plan amendment for Tax Incremental District No. 6
• Public hearing and possible action on Project Plan amendment for Tax Incremental District No. 7
• Public hearing and possible action on Project Plan amendment for Tax Incremental District No. 11
• Public hearing and possible action on Project Plan amendment for Tax Incremental District No. 12
• Proposed sharing of increment with Tax Incremental Districts No. 8, 9, and 10

The Redevelopment Authority held a public hearing and approved amendments to the project plans for Tax Incremental Districts 6, 7, 11, and 12, which share increment with TIDs 8, 9, and 10. The resolutions were forwarded to the Common Council. The meeting was procedural and no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved project plan amendments for TIDs 6, 7, 11, 12 and forwarded to Common Council (motion passed)
• Opened and closed public hearing for TID 6 (motion passed)
• Opened and closed public hearing for TID 7 (motion passed)
• Opened and closed public hearing for TID 11 (motion passed)
• Opened and closed public hearing for TID 12 (motion passed)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed 2025 budget and vote on adopting it, along with setting the 2024 tax levy. Multiple tax-increment district project plans are also up for amendment approvals. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes, revenue reports, and committee recommendations.

• Adopt 2025 City of Merrill Budget and set 2024 tax levy
• Amend project plans for Tax Incremental Districts No. 6, 7, 11, and 12
• Approve October revenue and expense reports
• Consider bids for City-owned property (Board of Public Works recommendation)
• Combine Social Media Specialist and Fair Grounds Manager positions, effective January 1, 2025

General

The Merrill Joint Review Board will review annual reports and cash-flow analyses for multiple tax-increment districts (TIDs) and consider two resolutions that extend deadlines for paying project costs under 2013 Act 145. The board will also discuss draft project plans for four additional TIDs.

• Review annual PE-300 reports for TIDs No. 3–14
• Consider "TID 4 Technical College Extension Resolution" to extend payment deadline
• Consider "TID 9 Technical College Extension Resolution" to extend payment deadline
• Review draft project plans for TIDs No. 6, 7, 11, and 12
• Review cash-flow analyses for TIDs No. 4 and No. 9

General

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority is holding a regular meeting to review financial reports and discuss proposed 2025 Tax Incremental District (TID) budgets. The board will also consider entering closed session to negotiate potential development incentives for TID 7. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and public comment.

• Review of September Revenue and Expense Report
• Discussion of 2025 proposed TID budgets
• Closed session to consider TID 7 development concept and negotiation of development incentives
• Approval of minutes from October 2 and October 16 meetings

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to approve minutes, claims, and monthly reports. Members will discuss the 2025 budget and consider updates to Smith Center skate passes and birthday party packages.

• Update on 2025 Budget
• Consider Smith Center public skate punch passes
• Consider adjusting Smith Center birthday skate party packages

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved switching Smith Center skating from season passes to punch passes, mirroring the Aquatic Center's pricing ($85/25 visits, $37/10, $20/5). It also approved adjusting Smith Center birthday skate party packages to three tiered options (Ice Cream $90, Hot Dog $120, Pizza $150) with per-person charges beyond 10. The 2025 operating budget was reported as passed without alterations, with capital requests partially funded except for the pool heater (fully funded) and shelter key locks (not funded).

• Approved Smith Center public skate punch passes (motion passed)
• Approved adjusted Smith Center birthday skate party packages (motion passed)
• Approved October 2024 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved October 2024 claims (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:00 p.m. (motion passed)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes, vouchers, and monthly reports, and to consider bids for city property. The agenda is largely routine, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Consider bids for City Property
• Approve Water & Sewer Vouchers
• Approve Street Department Vouchers
• Receive monthly reports from Building Inspector, City Administrator, Street Superintendent, and Street & Weed Commissioner
• Discuss dates for November and December meetings

The Board of Public Works approved the high bids for city-owned property and forwarded them to the City Council for final action. The board also approved water, sewer, and street department vouchers, and placed monthly reports on file. No public comment was made, and the meeting adjourned at 5:25 pm.

• Approved high bids for city-owned property, forwarded to Council (unanimous)
• Approved Water & Sewer Vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved Street Department Vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 28th meeting (unanimous)
• Placed monthly reports on file (unanimous)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will review vacancy protocols during a hiring freeze. The body will consider lifting the freeze for a mechanic position and discuss the Fairgrounds Manager position.

• Review of vacancy protocol during hiring freeze
• Proposal to lift hiring freeze for a mechanic position
• Discussion regarding the Fairgrounds Manager position
• Approval of vouchers

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved lifting the hiring freeze for a mechanic position and voted to combine the Social Media Specialist and Fairgrounds Manager positions into one renamed role, recommending Hallie Savall for it and forwarding the change to the Council effective January 1, 2025. The committee also approved vouchers, prior meeting minutes, and monthly reports, and discussed a vacancy review protocol during the hiring freeze.

• Approved vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 27 meeting (unanimous)
• Lifted hiring freeze for mechanic position (unanimous)
• Combined Social Media Specialist and Fairgrounds Manager positions, renamed role, recommended Hallie Savall, forwarded to Council (unanimous)
• Placed monthly reports on file (unanimous)

General

The Common Council is holding a special meeting to discuss a resolution regarding city financing. The body will consider the issuance of General Obligation Promissory Notes and a Note Anticipation Note.

• Resolution authorizing the issuance of $4,719,000 General Obligation Promissory Notes
• Issuance and sale of a $4,719,000 Note Anticipation Note, Series 2024B

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to consider the 2025 City General Fund budget and proposed 2024 tax levy, along with budgets for other city funds, tax incremental districts, water and sewer utilities, and capital projects. This is a budget review session, with no final decisions expected at this stage.

• Consideration of City General Fund budget (Fund 10) and proposed 2024 tax levy
• Budgets for other funds: Landfill, Police School Resource Officer, Fair Grounds, Community Development, Aviation Fuel, Debt Service, Capital Projects, Marketing and Communications, Fire Inspection, MEC Transportation
• Tax Incremental Districts (TIDs) 2025 budget requests
• Water and Sewer Utility 2025 budget requests
• 2025 Capital Budget requests

The Committee of the Whole voted to include the Merrill Airport maintenance hangar in the 2025 budget (8-1) and reduced the Historical Society request from $8,000 to $5,000 (7-2). It forwarded the General Fund, other city funds, TIDs, utilities, and capital budgets to the November 12 meeting. A motion to cut City Band funding failed for lack of a second, and a motion to remove ZTV and Merrill Minute from Fund 26 failed on a 4-4 vote.

• Included airport maintenance hangar in 2025 budget (8-1)
• Reduced Historical Society budget from $8,000 to $5,000 (7-2)
• Forwarded 2025 General Fund with revisions to Nov 12 meeting (9-0)
• Forwarded Other City Funds as adjusted to Nov 12 meeting (9-0)
• Forwarded TID 2025 budget requests to Nov 12 meeting (9-0)
• Forwarded Water & Sewer 2025 budget requests to Nov 12 meeting (9-0)
• Forwarded Capital 2025 budget requests to Nov 12 meeting (9-0)
• Removed $12,000 for ZTV from Fund 26 budget (6-2)

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will meet to review nuisance complaints and approve vouchers. The body will also hold a discussion regarding the rural fire contract.

• Discussion on the rural fire contract
• Review of nuisance complaints
• Approval of vouchers
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and Lincoln County Humane Society

The Health and Safety Committee approved the July 22nd minutes, approved the vouchers after discussion, and placed monthly reports on file. They also discussed the rural fire contract, with the city attorney to follow up with town chairs. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved July 22nd minutes (motion passed)
• Approved vouchers (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)

General

The Merrill Tourism Commission is holding a regular meeting to discuss the 2025 budget and a 2025 grant application. They will also consider placing the minutes from the June 25th meeting on file and set the date for the next meeting. Public comment is invited.

• Review 2025 Budget
• 2025 Grant Application
• Minutes from June 25th meeting

The Tourism Commission approved the 2025 budget totaling $132,075, which includes $74,100 for expenses and $57,975 for grants. They also approved grant amounts for various events, with some reduced from requested amounts. The commission moved fireworks funding to Other Promotions, agreeing to reimburse the city $12,000 if the city matches it.

• Approved 2025 budget of $132,075 (motion by Sue, seconded by Sara)
• Moved fireworks to Other Promotions, reimbursing city $12,000 if matched (5-0)
• Approved $1,400 grant for Merrill Lions
• Approved $21,000 grant for Lincoln County Fair
• Approved $21,000 grant for Wisconsin Pro Rodeo
• Approved $425 grant for Merrill Concertina
• Approved $7,500 grant for Merrill Ice Drags
• Approved $1,000 grant for Carry the Cross (requested $1,500)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss and potentially act on the Drug and Alcohol Policy and AV Club student rides. The agenda also includes public comment, approval of September minutes, and the administrator's report.

• Drug and Alcohol Policy review
• AV Club student rides discussion

The Merrill Transit Commission approved the September meeting minutes, a drug and alcohol policy, and a request from the AV Club for student rides to and from events during business hours. The administrator reported 4,561 September rides and no extended service area rides. The next meeting is scheduled for November 18, 2024.

• Approved September meeting minutes
• Approved drug and alcohol policy
• Approved AV Club student rides

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will review the September Revenue & Expense Report and the marketing budget from the October 14 Committee on the Whole meeting. The body will also consider an ordinance amending Chapter 2 regarding standing committees.

• Ordinance Amending Chapter 2 regarding standing committees
• Marketing budget from the 10/14 COW
• September Revenue & Expense Report
• Recreational Economy for Rural Communities Grant Opportunity
• Holiday promotional marketing

The Marketing & Communications Committee voted to forward a revised ordinance amending Chapter 2 regarding standing committees to the November Common Council. The revision specifies three alderpersons appointed by the Mayor as voting members, plus non-voting advisors from the Chamber of Commerce, a citizen with communications background, and the Social Media Specialist. No action was taken on the marketing budget or Midwest Communications contract, and the September Revenue & Expense Report was deferred to the November packet.

• Approved minutes from September 19th meeting (unanimous)
• Forwarded revised standing-committee ordinance to November Common Council (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)
• No action taken on marketing budget or Midwest Communications contract revisions
• September Revenue & Expense Report deferred to November packet

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to discuss infrastructure projects and general maintenance. The body will review updates on the airport master plan and an economic impact study by Jviation.

• Discussion of Runway 16/34 Project
• Consideration of deer ramps
• Repair or sale of Jet A Fuel Truck
• Update on the F-84 Monument
• Planning for Antique Aircraft Show 2025/2026

The Merrill Airport Commission met and approved the previous meeting's minutes and vouchers. No formal decisions were made on agenda items; discussions included the ongoing FAA wait for the Runway 16/34 project, building deer ramps, potential use of the Jet A fuel truck by the city, and updates on the F-84 monument and maintenance issues. The next meeting is scheduled for November 20, 2024.

• Approved minutes from September 18th meeting (unanimous)
• Approved vouchers (unanimous)

Library Board

The Library Board will meet to vote on an endowment fund payment and two new policies. Members will also discuss strategic goals and library system membership.

• Endowment Fund Request for payment to MRWOODCHEK for Elm Tree Table Completion
• Notary Public Service Policy
• Service Recognition for Individual Library Staff or Board Member
• Strategic Goals & Action Steps #5 Review
• Wisconsin Trustee Essential #17: Membership in the Library System

The Library Board approved an Endowment Fund payment to MRWOODCHECK for the Elm Tree Table Completion, a new Notary Public Service Policy, and a Service Recognition policy. They also approved consent items including September minutes, vouchers, and financial/statistical reports. No public comment or correspondence was presented.

• Approved Endowment Fund payment to MRWOODCHECK for Elm Tree Table Completion
• Approved Notary Public Service Policy
• Approved Service Recognition for Individual Library Staff or Board Member
• Approved minutes of September 18, 2024 regular meeting
• Approved vouchers for September 2024
• Approved Unaudited Monthly Revenue & Expense Report for September 2024
• Approved Monthly Statistical Report for September 2024

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will hold a regular meeting to review September 2024 minutes and vouchers. The agenda also includes operational updates on a Halloween Party, budget meetings, a center closure for an all-day trip, and a Parkinson's flyer.

• Approval of Sept '24 meeting minutes
• Approval of Sept '24/Oct '24 vouchers
• Halloween Party operations
• Budget meetings update
• Center closure on the 24th for all day trip

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee approved the August minutes and August/September vouchers. They discussed a potential moms group, the success of the Parkinson's support group, and the upcoming Fall Craft & Market. No formal decisions were made on these topics; the director will decide on the moms group and staff will create flyers.

• Approved August 2024 minutes
• Approved August/September 2024 vouchers

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority is holding a special meeting to consider a letter of intent for a land purchase. The board will convene in closed session to deliberate or negotiate the purchase, then may reconvene in open session to discuss the item. No other business is listed.

• Closed session under Wis. Stats. Sec. 19.85(1)(e) to consider a letter of intent for a land purchase
• Possible reconvening in open session to discuss the closed session item

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority held a special meeting and entered closed session to consider a letter of intent for a land purchase. After reconvening in open session, the authority voted to accept the agreement as presented and move forward. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Entered closed session to consider land purchase letter of intent (6-0)
• Accepted land purchase agreement and moved forward (motion passed)

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will meet to consider the 2025 Capital Budget and General Fund Operating Budget, including specific allocations for the Marketing Budget, School Resource Officer, and Fairgrounds. The agenda also includes public comment and placing previous meeting minutes on file.

• 2025 Capital Budget
• General Fund Operating Budget 2025
• Marketing Budget - Fund 26
• School Resource Officer - SRO - Fund 21
• Fairgrounds - Fund 26

The Committee of the Whole voted 6-3 to keep the removal of Street Square basketball courts at $5,000 in the 2025 capital budget. The general fund operating budget and other funds (marketing, SRO, fairgrounds) were not finalized; they will be reviewed at the October 28th meeting. A motion to approve the marketing budget after reducing item C to $5,000 was withdrawn, so no action was taken.

• Approved minutes from September 23rd meeting (unanimous)
• Kept removal of Street Square basketball courts at $5,000 in 2025 capital budget (6-3, with Weix, Rutkowski, Lass voting no)
• Deferred review of general fund operating budget to October 28th
• Deferred review of SRO fund and fairgrounds fund to October 28th
• Withdrew motion to approve marketing budget at $88,500 after reducing item C to $5,000

General

The Merrill Board of Review is meeting to handle property assessment appeals. The board will review and file minutes, verify training requirements, acknowledge policies for hearing waivers and testimony, and receive the assessment roll from the assessor before opening hearings.

• Consider placing April 17, 2024 minutes on file
• Verify mandatory training requirements for board members
• Acknowledge waiver of hearing request procedures
• Acknowledge sworn telephone and written testimony procedures
• Receive Assessment Roll from the Assessor

The Board of Review met, received the assessment roll, and opened hearings. Walmart's attorney requested a waiver to proceed to circuit court, which the board granted unanimously (6-0). The board then closed hearings and adjourned sine die.

• Approved minutes from April 17, 2024 (motion passed)
• Opened Board of Review hearings (6-0)
• Granted Walmart waiver to proceed to circuit court (6-0)
• Closed Board of Review hearings (motion passed)
• Adjourned sine die (motion passed)

Common Council

The Common Council will review bids for the Spruce Street extension and a development agreement with Wendorf Construction, LLC. Members will also consider changes to employee vision insurance and a temporary liquor license for the Merrill Fairgrounds.

• Bids for the Spruce Street extension
• Development agreement between the City of Merrill and Wendorf Construction, LLC
• Temporary picnic license for fermented malt beverages for the Merrill Eagles Club on October 19, 2024
• Proposed group vision insurance benefit and amendment to Section 14 of the Employee Handbook
• Removal of trees on Memorial Drive for fence installation

Police and Fire Commission

The Commission will meet to review previous minutes and enter a closed session. The closed session will focus on a Police Officer candidate interview and a possible promotion to Captain.

• Interview and possible promotion to the position of Captain

The Police and Fire Commission approved the previous meeting's minutes and then entered closed session to interview a police officer candidate for promotion to Captain. After reconvening, the commission voted to recommend continuing the candidate process with Mr. Iribarren. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from June 24th meeting (unanimous)
• Entered closed session for candidate interview and possible promotion (unanimous)
• Reconvened in open session (unanimous)
• Recommended continuing candidate process with Mr. Iribarren (unanimous)

Fairgrounds Committee

The Merrill Fairgrounds Committee meets to discuss updates on the fair, rodeo, permanent vendors, events calendar, campgrounds, and trees on Memorial Drive alongside a fence installation. The committee will also review fairground rental fees, hear the Festival Grounds Manager's monthly report, and consider going into closed session regarding the Fairgrounds Manager position and contract terms.

• Review and discuss fees for fairground rentals
• Discuss and consider the trees on Memorial Drive and the fence installation
• Closed session to discuss the Fairgrounds Manager position, contract terms, and related matters

The Fairgrounds Committee approved the 2025 fairground rental rates and voted to remove red pine trees on Memorial Drive before fence installation. The tree removal motion passed on a 3/2 roll call vote and will be forwarded to the October 12th Common Council agenda. The committee also entered closed session to discuss the Fairgrounds Manager position and contract terms, but did not reconvene in open session.

• Approved minutes from September 5th meeting
• Accepted 2025 fairground rental rates
• Approved removal of red pine trees on Memorial Drive before fence installation (3/2 roll call)
• Forwarded tree removal item to October 12th Common Council agenda
• Placed Fairgrounds Manager monthly report on file
• Entered closed session to discuss Fairgrounds Manager position and contract terms (5/0)

Redevelopment Authority

The Redevelopment Authority will review financial reports and 2023 Tax Increment District (TID) annual reports. The body is also considering the approval of a development agreement with Wendorf Construction, LLC.

• Development agreement between the City of Merrill and Wendorf Construction, LLC
• August Revenue and Expense Reports
• 2024 Equalized Values
• Review of 2023 Tax Increment District (TID) Annual Reports

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will hold a regular meeting to approve the previous meeting's minutes and September claims, and to review and approve the 2025 operating budget. The meeting also includes a director's report and public comment, followed by a non-business park tour.

• Review & approve 2025 operating budget
• Approve September 2024 claims
• Approve September 2024 minutes
• October 2024 Director's report
• Post-meeting park tour (no business conducted)

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved the 2025 operating budget as presented, with adjustments primarily due to wages, step increases, insurance, and personnel costs. The commission also approved the September 2024 minutes and claims, and received the October Director's Report summarizing September activities. No public comment was made, and the meeting adjourned to a park tour.

• Approved 2025 Parks & Recreation operating budget
• Approved September 2024 minutes
• Approved September 2024 claims

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole meets to consider the city’s 2025 operating budget requests for water, wastewater, landfill, airport, and airport aviation fuel, as well as 2025 capital budget requests for utilities and city capital projects. No specific dollar amounts or decisions are listed on this agenda.

• 2025 Operating Budget Requests: Water, Wastewater, Landfill, Airport, Airport Aviation Fuel
• 2025 Capital Budget Requests: Utility, City Capital

The Committee of the Whole approved the 2025 water, wastewater, and landfill operating budgets as presented, and forwarded the airport and airport aviation fuel budgets to the final budget session. For capital requests, the committee approved utility capital projects, referred the airport maintenance hangar to the next meeting, and made several cuts and reductions to city capital requests, including removing the Fire Department command car, library carpet, IT voice gateways, and Streeter Square basketball court, and reducing several Parks & Recreation items. The next budget meeting is scheduled for October 14 at 6:30 pm.

• Approved 2025 water operating budget as presented
• Approved 2025 wastewater operating budget as presented
• Approved 2025 landfill operating budget as presented
• Forwarded airport budget to final budget session
• Forwarded airport aviation fuel budget to final budget session
• Approved Utility 2025 capital projects
• Referred Airport Fixed Base Operator Maintenance Hangar to next budget meeting
• Removed Fire Department Car 60 Command Car Replacement from capital budget

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will discuss routine items including the August revenue and expense report, a possible voice change on the City Hall phone tree, and updates on the Tour of Lights and other projects. The agenda is largely procedural with informational updates and no major decisions expected.

• August Revenue and Expense Report
• Voice change on City Hall phone tree
• Tour of Lights planning update
• 150th Lincoln County Celebration update (October 19th)
• 2025 Tourism Grant and JEM Grant update

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved re-recording the City Hall phone tree message with City Clerk Anderson-Malm as the voice, to be done after the November General Election. They also approved the August Revenue and Expense Report and the previous meeting's minutes. The Tour of Lights was discussed, with the contest limited to residential nominees only, and no action was required. Monthly reports were placed on file.

• Approved minutes from August 15th meeting
• Approved August Revenue and Expense Report
• Approved re-recording phone tree message with City Clerk Anderson-Malm as voice (after November election)
• Decided Tour of Lights contest will have residential nominees only (no businesses)
• Approved placing monthly reports on file

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee met to discuss routine operations, including August 2024 meeting minutes, vouchers, an ADRC update, a Parkinson’s group recap, the Fall Craft & Market, and the budget. The meeting was held at the MEC Conference Room.

• Approval of Aug '24 meeting minutes
• Approval of Aug '24/Sept '24 vouchers
• ADRC updates
• First Parkinson’s group recap
• Fall Craft & Market Sept 28th and budget discussion

The committee approved the August minutes and August/September vouchers. They discussed a potential moms group, the success of the first Parkinson's meeting, the upcoming Fall Craft & Market, and the budget, including a possible $10k giveback to the city. No final decisions were made on these discussion items.

• Approved August 2024 minutes
• Approved August/September 2024 vouchers

Airport Commission

The Airport Commission will meet to discuss the Runway 16/34 Project and the repair or sale of the Jet A Fuel truck. The body will also review general maintenance and provide updates on the airport master plan.

• Discussion of Runway 16/34 Project
• Consideration of Jet A Fuel truck repair and/or sale
• Discussion on deer ramps
• Update on F-84 Monument
• Planning for Antique Aircraft Show 2025/2026

The meeting was called to order but lacked a quorum, so no official action was taken. Items on the agenda, including runway project discussion, deer ramps, Jet A fuel truck repair sale, and the F-84 Monument update, were not formally acted upon. The next meeting is scheduled for October 16, 2024.

• No quorum, no action taken on any agenda items
• Minutes from August 21st meeting not approved due to lack of quorum
• Runway 16/34 project discussed, no action
• Deer ramps discussed, no action
• Jet A fuel truck repair sale discussed, no action
• F-84 Monument update provided, no action

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board will hold its regular September meeting, primarily discussing a potential merger with the Northern Wisconsin ILS Consortium (NICE), reviewing strategic plan goals, and covering trustee ethics. The agenda includes routine consent items like minutes and financial reports, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Discussion of NICE system merger update
• Review of Strategic Plan Goals & Actions Steps #4
• Trustee ethics and conflict of interest laws discussion
• Approval of August 2024 vouchers and financial reports

The Merrill Library Board approved the August 2024 meeting minutes, vouchers, and monthly financial and statistical reports. A proposed merger with the Northern Waters Library System failed to pass due to a lack of a two-thirds majority vote. The board also discussed strategic plan goals and trustee ethics, and heard the director's report on upcoming programs and services.

• Approved minutes of August 21, 2024 meeting
• Approved vouchers for August 2024
• Approved unaudited monthly revenue & expense report for August 2024
• Approved monthly statistical report for August 2024
• NICE system merger vote failed (50/50 split, required two-thirds majority)

Historic Preservation Committee

The Historic Preservation Committee will meet to receive updates on two specific projects. The body is discussing the placement of a sign and the status of historic street names.

• Update on the status and placement of the Normal Park sign
• Update and next steps for Historic Street Names

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding a regular meeting with public comment, approval of minutes, and an administrator's report. General agenda items include discussion of the Tour of Lights, the meeting time, and a Community Partners Meeting. The next meeting is scheduled for October 21, 2024.

• Discussion of Tour of Lights
• Discussion of meeting time
• Discussion of Community Partners Meeting

The Merrill Transit Commission met on September 16, 2024, and approved the previous meeting minutes. The administrator's report noted August looked good. The commission discussed adding another night to the Tour of Lights and having tour guides assist with judging, but no formal decision was made. The commission decided to keep the current meeting time.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion by Kunkel, second by Weber)
• Kept current meeting time as is (discussion only)

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will meet to consider several items including revisions to financing plans for Tax Incremental Districts (TIDs) 7, 8, 9, and 10, a land parcel exchange for trail and stormwater work, selling city-owned properties, and a subdivision and rezoning request for Tall Pines. The council will also discuss adding a second full-time School Resource Officer (SRO) and honor two long-serving city employees.

• Revisions to 2024 financing plan for TIDs 7, 8, 9, and 10
• Land parcel exchange with Fremarq for trail connection and stormwater discharge
• Wendorf Construction’s Tall Pines Subdivision preliminary plat approval (PIN #251-3106-122-0147)
• Rezoning Tall Pines Subdivision from Industrial to R-1 Residential (except lots 29-30 to Thoroughfare Commercial)
• Adding a second full-time School Resource Officer (SRO) funded by MAPS

The Common Council approved the preliminary plat for the Tall Pines Subdivision and rezoned the property from Industrial to R-1 Residential (with lots 29 and 30 to Thoroughfare Commercial) for single-family homes. The council also approved a land parcel exchange with Fremarq for trail connection and stormwater discharge, authorized selling city-owned properties, and approved adding a second full-time School Resource Officer contingent on 100% MAPS funding. The August revenue and expense report was approved, and the 2024 financing plan revisions for TIDs 7, 8, 9, and 10 were authorized.

• Approved preliminary plat of Tall Pines Subdivision (motion passed)
• Approved rezoning of Tall Pines Subdivision from Industrial to R-1 Residential, with lots 29-30 to Thoroughfare Commercial (motion passed)
• Approved land parcel exchange with Fremarq for trail connection and stormwater discharge (motion passed)
• Approved selling City-owned properties (motion passed)
• Approved second full-time School Resource Officer, contingent on 100% MAPS funding (motion passed)
• Approved August Revenue and Expense Report (motion passed)
• Authorized Finance Director and Ehlers to proceed with revised 2024 financing plan for TIDs 7, 8, 9, 10 (motion passed)
• Approved resolutions honoring Kathy Unertl and Terri R. Akey for their service (motions passed)

Fairgrounds Committee

The Fairgrounds Committee will discuss updates regarding the fair, rodeo, and permanent vendors. The body will review rental fees for the fairgrounds and consider accepting a donation of fencing from the Rodeo Association.

• Review and discussion of fairground rental fees
• Consideration of fencing donation from the Rodeo Association
• Discussion on the Lincoln County 150th year Celebration
• Updates on campgrounds, fair, and rodeo

The Fairgrounds Committee accepted a donation of fencing from the Rodeo Association and discussed fairground rental fees, deciding to revisit the fee discussion at the October meeting. Updates were given on the fair, rodeo, campgrounds, and the Lincoln County 150th celebration, with the mayor to provide contact information for county coordination. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Accepted donation of fencing from Rodeo Association (motion passed)
• Deferred fairground rental fee discussion to October agenda
• Approved minutes from June 13th meeting (motion passed)
• Placed monthly report on file (motion passed)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will consider approving August minutes and claims, continue discussing the Wall of Hope initiative, begin the 2025 operating budget discussion, consider a land parcel exchange with Fremarq for trail and storm water purposes, and start discussing special event permits. The meeting also includes the director's report and public comment.

• Continued discussion and potential action on Wall of Hope initiative
• Begin 2025 Operating Budget discussion
• Consider land parcel exchange with Fremarq for trail connection and storm water discharge
• Begin discussion on Special Event Permits
• Approval of August 2024 claims

The Parks and Recreation Commission approved the Wall of Hope initiative contingent on final design approval, and approved a land parcel exchange with Fremarq to facilitate trail connection and storm water discharge. They also began 2025 budget discussions and discussed creating a special event permit for park events.

• Approved Wall of Hope 7x7 structure contingent on final design approval
• Approved land parcel exchange with Fremarq for trail connection and storm water discharge
• Approved August 2024 minutes and claims

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposed subdivision and rezoning for the Tall Pines project. Wendorf Construction Inc. seeks approval of a Preliminary Plat and rezoning from Industrial to R-1 Residential for single-family homes, with two lots rezoned to Thoroughfare Commercial. The meeting will also consider placing previous meeting minutes on file.

• Consider approval of Preliminary Plat for Tall Pines Subdivision
• Rezone Tall Pines Subdivision from Industrial to R-1 Residential
• Rezone lots 29 and 30 to Thoroughfare Commercial
• Public hearing on Wendorf Construction Inc. requests
• Place May 6th meeting minutes on file

The City Plan Commission approved the preliminary plat for Tall Pines Subdivision and the rezoning of the property from Industrial to R-1 Residential, with lots 29 and 30 rezoned to Thoroughfare Commercial. The public hearing was opened and closed with no public comments. The minutes from the May 6th meeting were placed on file.

• Approved preliminary plat of Tall Pines Subdivision (motion passed)
• Approved rezoning of Tall Pines Subdivision from Industrial to R-1 Residential, with lots 29-30 to Thoroughfare Commercial (motion passed)
• Placed minutes from May 6th meeting on file (motion passed)

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will meet to approve minutes from the June 26 meeting, review utility and street department vouchers, and discuss 2025 capital requests for water, sewer, and streets. The board will also consider selling city-owned properties and a land parcel exchange with Fremarq to support a trail connection and stormwater discharge.

• Approve Water & Sewer Vouchers
• Review 2024 Sanitary Survey
• Discuss 2025 Capital Requests for Water & Sewer
• Discuss 2025 Capital Requests for Streets
• Consider selling City-owned properties (see attached list)

The Board of Public Works forwarded the 2025 Capital Utility Requests, Street Capital Requests, and Capital Projects to the Capital Budget Committee of the Whole. It also approved selling city-owned properties, including 1905 Jackson Street, and approved a land parcel exchange with Fremarq for trail and storm water purposes, with one dissenting vote. All other items were routine approvals of minutes, vouchers, and monthly reports.

• Approved minutes from June 26 meeting
• Approved Water & Sewer vouchers
• Forwarded 2025 Capital Utility Requests to Capital Budget Meeting
• Approved Street Department vouchers
• Forwarded 2025 Street Capital Requests to Capital Budget Meeting
• Forwarded 2025 Capital Projects to Capital Budget Committee of the Whole
• Approved selling city-owned properties including 1905 Jackson Street
• Approved land parcel exchange with Fremarq (3-1, Alderperson Rick voted no)

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider accepting a grant from the Bierman Family Foundation for portable radios for the police and fire departments, and adding a second full-time School Resource Officer (SRO) funded 100% by MAPS. They will also discuss the LTE (recruit) officer position, closed sessions, delinquent personal property tax from Grecian Delight, and the budget timeline. Monthly reports from city officials will be presented and considered for filing.

• Acceptance of Bierman Family Foundation grant for portable radios for police and fire
• Adding a second full-time School Resource Officer (SRO) - 100% MAPS funded
• Clarification of recently approved LTE (recruit) officer position
• Update on delinquent personal property tax - Grecian Delight
• Budget timeline and update

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved a grant from the Bierman Family Foundation for portable radios for the Merrill Police and Fire Departments. It also approved adding a second full-time School Resource Officer, fully funded by MAPS, to be sent to the September Council. The committee scheduled a Budget Committee of the Whole for September 23rd to discuss capital requests. No other substantive decisions were made; several items were informational only.

• Approved Bierman Family Foundation grant for portable radios (unanimous)
• Approved second full-time School Resource Officer, 100% MAPS funded, to send to September Council (unanimous)
• Scheduled Budget Committee of the Whole for September 23rd at 6:00 pm
• Approved vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from July 23rd meeting (unanimous)
• Placed monthly reports on file (unanimous)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is holding a regular meeting to consider minutes, approve vouchers, and discuss several airport projects and updates. Key items include the Runway 16/34 project, a decision on deer ramps, and follow-up on Hatz Hangar structural issues. The commission will also discuss the sale of the Jet A fuel truck and updates on the F-84 monument and antique aircraft shows.

• Discussion on Runway 16/34 Project
• Discussion/Decision on Deer Ramps
• Discussion, City to Follow Up on Hatz Hangar Structural Issues
• Jet A Fuel truck sale
• Update F-84 Monument

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to consider approving the July minutes and to discuss the status and placement of the Normal Park sign, as well as updates and next steps for historic street names. Public comment will be heard.

• Consider approving minutes from July 17th meeting
• Discuss status and placement of Normal Park sign
• Historic Street Names - update and next steps

The committee approved the July 17 meeting minutes and discussed updates on the Normal Park sign and historic street name signs. Sign reveal dates were set for Budda English on August 26 and Chuck Sommers on September 16, with other dates pending. The next meeting was moved to 6:30 pm starting in September.

• Approved minutes from July 17 meeting (unanimous)
• Set reveal date for Budda English sign: Aug 26 at 4:00 pm
• Set reveal date for Chuck Sommers sign: Sep 16 at 1:00 pm
• Changed meeting time to 6:30 pm starting September

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board is meeting to review and approve several action items, including endowment fund requests for an elevator upgrade and youth services book bins, a contract bid for a youth services room addition, and new policies for memorial books and school/teacher services. The board will also discuss updates on the Elm Tree project, a potential system merger, strategic plan goals, and hiring a library director. Consent items include approval of July minutes, vouchers, and financial/statistical reports.

• Endowment Fund Request for Required Elevator Upgrade
• Endowment Fund Request for Youth Services Renovation Project - Book Bins
• Contract Bid for Youth Services Room Addition Project
• Memorial Books Policy approval
• School & Teacher Services Policy approval

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission holds its regular meeting to receive the administrator’s report on July ridership (3,706 rides) and to discuss a free-ride program for Community Night Out. Commissioners also review data from the extended-service-area pilot, which tested three neighborhoods with varying ride counts.

• Free rides to and from Community Night Out confirmed
• Extended service pilot data summarized for Glen/Cresent, Rock Ridge/Edgewater/Highland, and Delmore/Nicklaus areas
• July ridership totaled 3,706 rides

The Merrill Transit Commission voted to extend the temporary extended service area until December 31, 2024. The commission also approved the previous meeting minutes. Public comments included requests for another Tour of Lights night, a question about 85.21 funding, and a suggestion to move meeting times to the evening.

• Extended temporary extended service area until Dec 31, 2024 (passed)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (passed)

Enrichment Center Committee

The Enrichment Center Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and vouchers. The body will discuss the Festival of Quilts recap and the September calendar.

• Approval of July/August vouchers
• Festival of Quilts recap
• September calendar review

The committee discussed the 2024 Festival of Quilts, noting attendance of 508 and a profit of $2,270.45. The director suggested considering a one-day show due to budget and payroll constraints, but no decision was made. The committee also discussed promoting the Endowment Fund and heard about upcoming programs.

• Approved July 2024 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved July/August 2024 vouchers (motion carried)
• Discussed Festival of Quilts results; no formal action taken
• Discussed potential one-day show format; no decision made
• Discussed promoting Endowment Fund; director to explore mailings and presentations

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Merrill Marketing & Communications Committee is meeting to discuss the July Revenue and Expense reports, the 2025 Preliminary Budget, and various marketing items. The agenda also includes updates on the shared photo library, grant applications, and website additions, alongside consideration of a 2025 Visitor's Guide ad and Standing Banner Design.

• Discuss and consider the July Revenue and Expense reports
• Consider the Standing Banner Design
• Consider the Visitor's Guide ads for 2025
• Discuss and consider an additional landing page to the City website
• Tourism Grant 2024 Funds received ($1,000) and 2025 deadline

The Marketing & Communications Committee forwarded the proposed 2025 budget to the Common Council with a review of the Midwest Communications proposal. They also approved ordering a standing banner from Vista Print for up to $170 plus tax and adding a landing page to the city website. The committee placed minutes and monthly reports on file, and no other substantive decisions were made.

• Forwarded proposed 2025 budget to Common Council with review of Midwest Communications proposal (passed)
• Approved ordering one standing banner from Vista Print not to exceed $170 plus tax (passed)
• Approved adding a landing page to the city website (passed)
• Placed minutes from July 18 meeting on file (passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (passed)

Common Council

The Common Council will consider authorizing the sale of general obligation promissory notes and the adoption of a city investment policy. The body will also review alcohol and picnic licenses and an ordinance regarding public streets and sidewalks.

• Resolution for General Obligation Promissory Notes, Series 2024A, not to exceed $3,350,000
• Alcohol beverage license application for True North Energy, LLC at 604 S Center Ave
• Adoption of a City of Merrill Investment Policy
• Ordinance amending Chapter 16, Section 16-1, 32-88(b)(1) regarding Streets, Sidewalks and Other Public Places
• Temporary picnic licenses for VFW Post 1638 for events on August 17 and September 2

The Common Council authorized the issuance of up to $3,350,000 in General Obligation Promissory Notes, Series 2024A, to fund street, park, IT, library, City Hall, fairground, and TID No. 11 improvements, and to refund a portion of the 2022A Note Anticipation Note. The resolution was amended to include the Mayor as a signer and passed 7-0. The council also adopted a City of Merrill Investment Policy, approved two temporary picnic licenses for VFW Post 1638, and approved an alcohol beverage license for True North Energy, LLC.

• Authorized up to $3,350,000 GO Promissory Notes, Series 2024A (7-0, amended to add Mayor as signer)
• Adopted City of Merrill Investment Policy
• Approved alcohol beverage license for True North Energy, LLC, 604 S Center Ave
• Approved temporary picnic license for VFW Post 1638 for Aug 17 NWDT event
• Approved temporary picnic license for VFW Post 1638 for Sept 2 Labor Day Car Show
• Adopted ordinance amending Chapter 16, Streets, Sidewalks and Other Public Places (6-1)
• Approved July Revenue and Expense Summary
• Approved appointments: Theresa Baker to Transit Commission, Alderperson Rutkowski to Marketing & Communications Committee

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss the revaluation for the City of Merrill. The discussion will feature Kitt Koski from Bowmar Appraisal.

• Discussion regarding the revaluation for the City of Merrill with Kitt Koski from Bowmar Appraisal

The Committee of the Whole received an update on the city's property revaluation from Kitt Koski of Bowmar Appraisal. No formal decisions were made; the item was for discussion only. Letters to property owners will be mailed around September 14, and an Open Book session is planned for early October.

• Heard revaluation update from Bowmar Appraisal (no vote)
• Scheduled property owner letters for around September 14
• Scheduled Open Book for early October

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to consider July 2024 minutes and claims, discuss 4th of July vendors, and receive updates on Lion's Park parking lot discussions. The commission will also hold a closed session to negotiate the Merrill Youth Hockey Association Concessions Contract.

• Discussion and potential action regarding 4th of July vendors
• Update on Lion's Park "teachers parking lot" discussions
• Closed session for negotiation of Merrill Youth Hockey Association Concessions Contract

The Parks and Recreation Commission voted not to allow portable vendors at the 4th of July event at MARC, approved a parking lot agreement with MAPS, and approved a concessions agreement with Merrill Youth Hockey Association in closed session. The meeting also included approval of minutes and claims.

• Approved July 2024 minutes (motion by Osness, seconded by Rutkowski)
• Approved July 2024 claims (motion by Osness, seconded by Tabor)
• Voted to not allow portable vendors at 4th of July event at MARC (motion by Rutkowski, seconded by Tabor)
• Approved Lion's Park 'teachers parking lot' agreement with MAPS (motion by Krueger, seconded by Rutkowski)
• Approved Concessions Agreement with Merrill Youth Hockey Association in closed session (motion by Rutkowski, seconded by Osness)

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will meet on August 7, 2024, to consider a residential incentive program application for 111 E Riverside Ave and discuss updates regarding a revised development agreement with Wendorf Construction LLC for Spruce St. The agenda also includes financial reports, housing updates, 2024 project statuses, a strategic plan update, and an update from the Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation.

• Residential Incentive Program Application for 111 E Riverside Ave (1/2 mile TID 8)
• Update on a revised development agreement between the City of Merrill and Wendorf Construction LLC for residential development on Spruce St (TID 7)
• June Revenue and Expense report and financial update from Finance Director Ley
• Strategic Plan update from City Administrator Akey

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority met on August 7, 2024, and approved the June 5 meeting minutes. No substantive decisions were made on agenda items; the committee received updates on finances, housing and development, a residential incentive application for 111 E Riverside Ave, a revised development agreement with Wendorf Construction for Spruce St, 2024 projects, the strategic plan, and LCEDC activities. The LCEDC update was set as a quarterly agenda item.

• Approved June 5 meeting minutes (motion by Koblitz, second by Fermanich)
• Set LCEDC update as quarterly agenda item

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee will hold its regular meeting on July 25, 2024, to approve past meeting minutes and vouchers, review June/July activities, and plan future events like the Festival of Quilts and Health Fair. The committee will also set the date for the next meeting.

• Approval of May meeting minutes
• Approval of May/June/July vouchers
• Festival of Quilts planning
• Health Fair date and planning
• Next meeting scheduled for August 15, 2024, at 2:15 PM

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Merrill Personnel and Finance Committee will discuss and consider the 2025 budgets for the Ambulance-EMS and the TB Scott Public Library. The committee will also review the 2025 budget timeline, a city investment policy, and consider writing off specific personal property taxes.

• Consider 2025 budgets for Ambulance - EMS and TB Scott Public Library for submission to Lincoln County
• Consider writing off 2023 personal property tax bills for Grecian Delight ($48.66) and Inked Horizons ($24.33)
• Discuss and consider adoption of a City of Merrill Investment Policy
• City of Merrill Flexible Facilities Program Application - TB Scott Library (information)
• Review and discuss 2024 YTD City of Merrill WPS charges

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will discuss fire department operating guidelines, an EMS Training Division Chief job description, and nuisance complaints. The agenda also includes consideration of temporary picnic licenses for alcohol sales at local events and monthly department reports.

• Discuss and consider Merrill Fire Department standard operating guideline(s)
• Discuss and consider the EMS Training Division Chief job description
• Picnic license for Merrill Baseball Association at 500 Logan St for July 26-28, 2024
• Temporary picnic licenses for VFW Post 1638 at Merrill Fairgrounds for August 17 and September 2, 2024
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and Lincoln County Humane Society

The Health and Safety Committee tabled the Merrill Fire Department standard operating guidelines on a 2/1 voice vote, with Alderperson Weix voting no. The committee also tabled the EMS Training Division Chief job description. Three temporary picnic licenses for fermented malt beverage sales were approved for the Merrill Baseball Association and VFW Post 1638 events. Monthly reports were placed on file, and the meeting adjourned at 5:24 pm.

• Tabled Merrill Fire Department standard operating guidelines (2/1, Weix no)
• Tabled EMS Training Division Chief job description
• Approved picnic license for Merrill Baseball Association, July 26-28, 500 Logan St
• Approved temporary picnic license for VFW Post 1638, Aug 17, Merrill Fairgrounds (NWDT event)
• Approved temporary picnic license for VFW Post 1638, Sept 2, Merrill Fairgrounds (Labor Day Car Show)
• Approved minutes from June 24 meeting
• Approved vouchers
• Placed monthly reports on file

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will review and approve revenue and expense reports, discuss standing banner designs, consider the 2025 Visitor's Guide, and receive updates on grants, Community Night Out, and contract renewals. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes and monthly reports.

• Food Truck-a-Palooza revenue/expense summary
• June revenue and expense report
• 2025 Visitor's Guide discussion
• JEM Grant application deadline August 1st
• 2025 Tourism Grant deadline September 20th

The Marketing & Communications Committee approved extending two contracts with Midwest Communications until 12/31/2024, with a review planned for the 2025 budget year. They also approved the June revenue and expense report, agreed on a 4-picture style for standing banners, and placed previous minutes and monthly reports on file. No other substantive decisions were made; several items were updates or will return in August.

• Extended Midwest Communications contracts to 12/31/2024 (motion passed)
• Approved June Revenue and Expense Report (motion passed)
• Agreed to 4-picture style for standing banner designs
• Placed June 27th meeting minutes on file (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission will meet to review June meeting minutes, approve vouchers, and discuss several operational items including the Runway 16/34 Project, airport taxiway policy, and the demolition of a hangar occupied by Lyman Hatz. The meeting will also include updates on fuel truck sales, maintenance, and future events like the Antique Aircraft Show.

• Discuss Runway 16/34 Project
• Consider demolition of hangar occupied by Lyman Hatz
• Review June vouchers for approval
• Discuss Airport Taxiway Policy
• Update on Jet A Fuel truck sale

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee will meet to approve past meeting minutes and discuss updates on historic street names, street sign videos, and storyboard sign locations including Normal Park and Legion Building signs.

• Consider approving June 19th meeting minutes
• Historic Street Names - update and next steps
• Update on videos for street signs
• Discuss storyboard sign locations for Normal Park and Legion Building

The committee approved the minutes from the June 19 meeting. They reviewed a sample sign for Normal Park and noted the Legion Building sign is being processed. No formal decisions were made on the storyboard signs; updates are scheduled for the August agenda.

• Approved June 19 minutes (motion passed)

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board will meet July 17 to act on routine minutes and vouchers, review the mid-year endowment report, and consider the 2025 budget and closure dates. Directors and trustees will also discuss renovation, consortium merger, and strategic planning items.

• Approve 2025 Library Budget
• Approve 2025 Library Closure Dates
• Approve Mid-Year Endowment Fund Report
• Approve Memorial Books Policy
• Northern Wisconsin ILS Consortium (NICE) System Merger

The Merrill Library Board approved the 2025 Library Budget, 2025 Library Closure Dates, and the Northern Wisconsin ILS Consortium Exploration (NICE) System Merger. The Memorial Books Policy was tabled to the August 21, 2024 meeting. All other items were routine approvals.

• Approved 2025 Library Budget
• Approved 2025 Library Closure Dates
• Approved Northern Wisconsin ILS Consortium Exploration (NICE) System Merger
• Tabled Memorial Books Policy to August 21, 2024 meeting
• Approved Mid-Year Endowment Fund Report
• Approved minutes of June 19, 2024 meeting
• Approved vouchers for June 2024
• Approved Unaudited Monthly Revenue & Expense Report for June 2024

Transit Commission

The Transit Commission will meet to review the Administrator's report and the Q2 report. The meeting includes time for public comment and approval of June minutes.

• Review of Administrator's Report
• Review of Q2 Report

The Merrill Transit Commission met on July 15, 2024, and approved the June meeting minutes. The administrator's report was presented, including a Q2 report, but no substantive decisions were made. The next meeting is scheduled for August 19, 2024.

• Approved June meeting minutes (motion by Blake, seconded by Kunkel)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission will consider approving the June 2024 minutes and claims, discuss and potentially approve 2025 capital requests, and receive an update on Lincoln County ARPA funding requests. The meeting also includes a monthly report and public comment.

• Approval of June 2024 minutes
• Approval of June 2024 claims
• Discussion and potential approval of 2025 capital requests
• Update on Lincoln County ARPA funding requests

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will vote on several routine items, including approving June financial reports, a denied damage claim, alcohol licenses, and two construction bids. They will also consider a resolution to vacate part of E 5th Street for a daycare expansion and honor three long-time city servants.

• Consider $45,600 bid from SD Ellenbecker for O'Day Street sidewalk project (M2024-03)
• Consider $86,520 bid from American Asphalt for parking lot paving (M2024-04) with budget amendment
• Resolution to vacate portion of E 5th Street for daycare expansion
• Deny claim by Michelle Lahr for windshield damage (no city liability)
• Approval of multiple temporary picnic licenses for beer sales at local events

The Common Council approved two public works projects: a $45,600 sidewalk project on O'Day Street and an $86,520 parking lot paving project, the latter with a budget amendment of $50,000 to $60,000. The council also approved several temporary alcohol licenses for local events, disallowed a damage claim, and passed resolutions to vacate a portion of E 5th Street for daycare expansion and honor retiring employees.

• Approved $45,600 sidewalk project bid from SD Ellenbecker (8-0)
• Approved $86,520 parking lot paving bid from American Asphalt with budget amendment (8-0)
• Approved vacation of portion of E 5th Street for daycare expansion
• Disallowed Michelle Lahr's windshield damage claim
• Approved Class B alcohol license renewal for Cobblestone Inn & Suites
• Approved temporary picnic licenses for Legion Baseball, Merrill Rangers, and Merrill Fastpitch events (7-1, Lass no)
• Approved extension of premise for Merrill Youth Hockey at MARC for car show
• Approved resolutions honoring Shari Wicke, Lori Kroening, and Thomas Teetzen

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee is meeting to discuss and consider several items, including a wrap-up of the Food Truck-a-Palooza event, May revenue and expense reports, a shared photo library, standing banners, 2025 Visitor's Guide ads, preliminary JEM grants, and the Community Night Out event in August. They will also receive monthly reports from staff and Midwest Communications. The meeting includes public comment and is scheduled for June 27, 2024.

• Food Truck-a-Palooza wrap-up discussion (final numbers not yet available)
• May 31st Revenue and Expense Reports
• Shared photo library proposal by Nathan Meyer
• Standing banners proposal by Social Media Specialist Savall
• 2025 Visitor's Guide ads and preliminary JEM grants

The Marketing & Communications Committee decided to purchase two additional standing banners and work with the Chamber of Commerce on their design. They also agreed to keep three full pages of 2025 Visitor's Guide ads at $2,500, with updated pictures to be finalized in July. Other items, including JEM grants and the shared photo library, were discussed but not finalized.

• Approved purchase of two additional standing banners (unanimous)
• Decided to keep 3 full pages of 2025 Visitor's Guide ads for $2,500, with new pictures
• Placed minutes from May 23rd meeting on file (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will review and approve routine vouchers and monthly reports, and consider bids for two public works projects: the M2024-03 O'Day Street sidewalk project and the M2024-04 parking lot paving project. Bid details will be provided at the meeting. The meeting also includes public comment and approval of previous minutes.

• Consider bids for M2024-03 O'Day Street sidewalk project
• Consider bids for M2024-04 Parking Lot paving project
• Approve Water & Sewer and Street Department vouchers
• Receive monthly reports from Building Inspector, City Administrator, Street Superintendent, and Street & Weed Commissioner

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will review the city's 2024 borrowing and its impact on future levies, along with an update on Bierman Foundation turnout gear and mattresses. They will also consider approving vouchers, prior meeting minutes, and monthly reports from city officials. The committee may enter closed session to discuss litigation and employee matters.

• Review of 2024 Borrowing and Future Levy Implications
• Bierman Foundation turnout gear and mattress summary update
• Approval of vouchers
• Approval of minutes from May 28 meeting
• Closed session for litigation and employee performance discussions

The Personnel and Finance Committee approved vouchers and placed minutes and monthly reports on file. It discussed borrowing and levy implications, received updates on the Bierman Foundation turnout gear and mattress summary, and determined which commissions can limit closed session participants. The committee then entered closed session to discuss litigation, union contracts, and compensation, and did not reconvene in open session.

• Approved vouchers (motion passed)
• Placed May 28 minutes on file (motion passed)
• Placed monthly reports on file (motion passed)
• Determined commissions can limit closed session participants (Library Board, Transit Commission, Parks & Recreation Commission, Police & Fire Commission, Airport Commission, City Plan Commission, Tourism Commission)
• Entered closed session (3-0 roll call vote)
• Placed previous closed session minutes on file (motion passed)
• Adjourned from closed session (motion passed)

General

The Merrill Tourism Commission is holding a regular meeting to review and approve prior meeting minutes, discuss the 2024 budget including an application from Carry the Cross, recap 2024 trade shows and discuss 2025 trade shows, and review 2025 grant application deadlines. Public comment is also on the agenda.

• Review/approve minutes from November meetings
• Review of 2024 Budget
• Application for Carry the Cross
• Discuss 2025 Tradeshows and recap 2024 Tradeshows
• Grant application deadlines for 2025

The Merrill Tourism Commission approved a $1,000 grant to Carry the Cross, a reduction from the $1,500 requested, consistent with a 25% cut applied to all applications reviewed in November. The commission also reviewed the 2024 budget, discussed 2025 tradeshow plans, and set the next meeting for October 22, 2024. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $1,000 grant to Carry the Cross (motion by Kunkel, seconded by Weix, carried)
• Approved minutes from November meetings as written (motion by Kunkel, seconded by Weix, carried)
• Set next meeting for October 22, 2024, at noon at Merrill Chamber office

Police and Fire Commission

The Merrill Police and Fire Commission will consider approving minutes from its February meeting and receive an update on limited-term employment for Police Recruit Academy Training, which was previously approved by the Personnel & Finance Committee. The Commission may also enter closed session to interview police officer candidates and could take action afterward.

• Approval of minutes from February 4, 2024 meeting
• Update on limited-term employment for Police Recruit Academy Training (passed by Personnel & Finance Committee on May 28, 2024)
• Closed session for police officer candidate interviews under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(b)
• Possible action on closed session item

The Police and Fire Commission approved the previous meeting's minutes and received an update on limited-term employment for police recruit academy training. In closed session, the commission interviewed police officer candidates, then reconvened in open session and voted to recommend continuing the candidate process with Mr. Dawson. The meeting adjourned without any other substantive decisions.

• Approved minutes from February 04, 2024 meeting
• Recommended continuing police candidate process with Mr. Dawson

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will review nuisance complaints, approve vouchers, and consider several alcohol beverage licenses, including a renewal for Cobblestone Inn & Suites and temporary picnic licenses for local sports events. They will also receive monthly reports from the fire and police chiefs and the humane society.

• Class B alcohol license renewal for Arbuda WI LLC dba Cobblestone Inn & Suites, 3209 E Main St
• Temporary picnic licenses for Legion Baseball, Merrill Rangers, and Merrill Fastpitch events
• Extension of premises for Merrill Youth Hockey at MARC for Aug 24 car show
• Approval of vouchers and nuisance complaints
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and Lincoln County Humane Society

The Health and Safety Committee approved all agenda items, including a Class B alcohol license renewal for Cobblestone Inn & Suites and multiple temporary picnic licenses for local sports and community events. Monthly reports from the fire chief, police chief, and humane society were placed on file. No public comment was received.

• Approved minutes from May 20th meeting
• Approved nuisance complaint vouchers
• Approved Class B alcohol license renewal for Arbuda WI LLC dba Cobblestone Inn & Suites, 3209 E Main St
• Approved temporary picnic license for Merrill Baseball Legion/Jr Legion, July 10, 16, 17
• Approved temporary picnic license for Merrill Rangers, July 14, 21, 31, Aug 9, 10, 11
• Approved temporary picnic license for Merrill Youth Softball Association (Fastpitch) at MARC, July 26-28
• Approved temporary picnic license for Merrill Youth Softball Association at MARC, Sept 21
• Approved temporary picnic license for Merrill Youth Softball Association at Normal Park, Jan 11, 2025

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is holding its regular June meeting. The agenda includes approval of May minutes and vouchers, plus discussion of new program offerings, bus trips, and planning for a health fair. The meeting is primarily administrative and planning-focused, with no major policy decisions or financial contracts listed.

• Approval of May meeting minutes
• Approval of May/June '24 vouchers
• New offerings: Mindset Mastery workshop and 'Straight Talk about the mystery of hearing aids'
• Bus trips discussion
• Health fair date and planning

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The commission will consider approving the May minutes and vouchers, and will discuss and potentially act on several items, including the Runway 16/34 project status, the Airport Taxiway Policy, the Jet-A fuel truck, and an Airport Movie Event. Updates will also be provided on the F-84 Monument, general maintenance, the Master Plan, and an economic impact study.

• Status update on Runway 16/34 Project
• Discuss and consider the Airport Taxiway Policy
• Update on the Jet-A fuel truck
• Discuss and consider the Airport Movie Event
• Update on the F-84 Monument

The Merrill Airport Commission approved a formal Airport Taxiway Policy to reduce vehicle traffic on runways and taxiways, with an exception for Taxiway Bravo. They also approved the May minutes and vouchers, and discussed updates on the Runway 16/34 project, a Jet-A fuel truck, an airport movie event, and the F-84 monument. No other formal decisions were made; most items were updates or discussions.

• Approved minutes from May 15 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved May vouchers and budget (unanimous)
• Approved Airport Taxiway Policy, with exception on Taxiway Bravo (motion by Mark W, second by Joe M, passed)

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to consider routine items including approving prior minutes and setting the next meeting date. The main business involves updates and continued discussions on several projects: a historic street name application, a virtual home/building tour, signage at Normal Park and the Legion building, videos for street signs, and the Ascension Chapel demolition.

• Update on James Severt's historic street name application
• Update on virtual historic home/building tour
• Update on Normal Park and Legion building signs and other sign locations
• Update on videos for street signs
• Update and discussion on Ascension Chapel demolition

The committee discussed James Severt's historic street sign application but took no action, as he is a Town of Merrill resident, not a City resident. Other items were updates only, with no substantive decisions made.

• Approved minutes from April 17th meeting (motion passed)
• No action taken on James Severt's historic street sign application
• No update on virtual historic home/building tour
• Signs for Normal Park and Legion building to be pursued with Finance Director
• Street sign videos deferred to July agenda
• No legal claim to Ascension Chapel; chair to work with mayor on documenting interior

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board will vote on several policies and appointments, including a new Library Account Creation & Loan Policy, an Access to Public Records policy, and the appointment of Darcy Dalsky as Board Financial Secretary. They will also discuss the Elm Tree Table Project and review strategic plan goals.

• Approval of Library Account Creation & Loan Policy
• Approval of Access to Public Records policy
• Appointment of Darcy Dalsky as Board Financial Secretary
• Resolution granting signing authority
• Discussion of Elm Tree Table Project status

The Merrill Library Board approved several policies and appointments, including a revised Library Account Creation & Loan Policy, an Access to Public Records Policy, and the appointment of Darcy Dalsky as Board Financial Secretary. The board also approved consent items including May minutes, vouchers, and financial reports. No substantive decisions were made on the Elm Tree Table project, which remains incomplete.

• Approved Library Account Creation & Loan Policy (unanimous)
• Approved Access to Public Records Policy (unanimous)
• Appointed Darcy Dalsky as Board Financial Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 15, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved vouchers for May 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved Unaudited Monthly Revenue & Expense Report for May 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved Monthly Statistical Report for May 2024 (unanimous)

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, covering public comment, approval of the May 2024 meeting minutes, and an administrator's report, with no specific action items listed for consideration.

• Approval of May 2024 meeting minutes
• Administrator's report
• Public comment period

Fairgrounds Committee

The Festival Grounds Committee will hold its regular meeting, primarily discussing updates on the fair, rodeo, and permanent vendors, as well as the calendar of events. They will also consider renaming the Festival Grounds to the Merrill Fair Grounds and setting fees for multiple uses of the grounds. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and monthly reports.

• Discuss and consider returning the name of Festival Grounds to Merrill Fair Grounds
• Discuss and consider fees for multiple uses, e.g., craft show in Expo Building and on grounds
• Fair Update
• Rodeo Update
• Permanent Vendor Update

The committee voted to return the name of the Festival Grounds to the Merrill Fair Grounds, with the city attorney to determine if final approval by the Common Council is needed. The rodeo drew 14,000-15,000 attendees over the weekend. No action was taken on fees for multiple uses.

• Approved minutes from May 9th meeting
• Approved renaming Festival Grounds to Merrill Fair Grounds
• Placed monthly reports on file

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will vote on several financial resolutions, including the sale of approximately $3,190,000 in general obligation promissory notes and multiple tax increment revenue bonds for TIDs 7, 8, and 10. They will also consider approving 2024/2025 liquor license applications, temporary beer licenses for local baseball and softball events, and an ordinance amending firearm and hunting regulations. The agenda includes routine items like minutes, reports, and employee recognition.

• Resolution to sell ~$3,190,000 General Obligation Promissory Notes
• Resolution to sell ~$1,453,000 TID No. 7 bond, ~$1,329,000 TID No. 8 bond, ~$780,000 TID No. 10 bond
• Approval of 2024/2025 liquor license applications (21 of 24 returned)
• Temporary Class B beer licenses for Merrill Rangers, Legion, and Youth Softball at Athletic Park and MARC
• Ordinance amending Chapter 26-21 on firearms, crossbows, bows, and explosives

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes and claims, discuss and potentially approve 2025 capital requests, and continue discussion on a citizen request for the 'Wall of Hope.' The agenda also includes monthly reports and public comment. Most items are routine approvals or ongoing discussions.

• Discuss and potentially approve 2025 Capital requests
• Continued discussion on 'Wall of Hope' citizen request
• Approve May 2024 minutes
• Approve May 2024 claims

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority is meeting to consider a revised development agreement with Wendorf Construction LLC for residential development on Spruce St in TID 7, along with updates on housing, city-owned property, and logging on Hwy G property. The agenda also includes approval of previous minutes and a financial report.

• Revised development agreement with Wendorf Construction LLC for residential development on Spruce St (TID 7)
• Financial report and update from Finance Director Ley
• Housing and development update from City Administrator Akey
• City-owned property update from City Administrator Akey
• Discussion and consideration of logging on Hwy G property

Community Development Committee

The Community Development Committee will hold a regular meeting, including public comment and approval of previous minutes. The main item is a closed session to consider personal financial data related to File #24001, an Economic Development Loan application, followed by possible action in open session.

• Closed session under Wis. Stat. § 19.85(1)(f) for File #24001 Economic Development Loan application
• Possible action on the loan application after reconvening in open session
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider approving vouchers, minutes, and several personnel actions, including limited-term employment for Police Recruit Academy Training and hiring a Library Assistant II at T.B. Scott Free Library due to an upcoming retirement. The committee will also receive monthly reports from city officials and may enter closed session to discuss employee matters.

• Approval of vouchers
• Limited-term employment for Police Recruit Academy Training
• Hire Library Assistant II at T.B. Scott Free Library
• Monthly reports from Mayor Hass, City Administrator Akey, Finance Director Ley, City Attorney Hayden, City Clerk Anderson-Malm, and Municipal Court
• Closed session for employee performance/status discussion

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee is meeting to review financial reports, discuss results from the Food Truck-a-Palooza event, and get updates on shared photos, banners, and Chamber of Commerce activities. They will also consider future marketing plans, including the 2025 Visitor's Guide ad deadline and contract renewals with Midwest Communications. The meeting includes monthly reports and public comment.

• Revenue and Expense Report review
• Food Truck-a-Palooza preliminary results
• 2025 Visitor's Guide ad deadline August 1st
• Midwest Communications contract renewals (9/1 and 11/1)
• JEM Grant application update

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will consider temporary Class "B" liquor licenses for the Merrill Baseball Association and Merrill Youth Softball Association, discuss amending the city's hunting ordinance to address the deer population, and review 2024-2025 liquor license applications. They will also handle nuisance complaints, approve vouchers, and receive monthly reports from the fire chief, police chief, and humane society.

• Temporary Class "B" license for Merrill Baseball Association, May 31-June 2, 2024, at MARC, Lions Park, and Athletic Park
• Temporary Class "B" license for Merrill Youth Softball Association, July 5, 2024, at MARC
• Amend Ordinance Chapter 26, Article 11, Section 26-21 (regulation of firearms, crossbows, bows, explosives; hunting) re deer population
• 2024-2025 Liquor License Applications (per list)
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and Lincoln County Humane Society

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding its regular May meeting. The agenda includes public comment, approval of April minutes, and the administrator's report covering the first quarter. No specific action items or proposals are listed for consideration.

• Approval of April meeting minutes
• Administrator's report
• First Quarter Report

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes and vouchers, hear public comment, and receive operational updates. Items include participant counts, a recap of intergenerational days with Washington School, the Parkinson's Support Group, and a Festival of Quilts update. No major decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of April 2024 meeting minutes
• Approval of April/May 2024 vouchers
• Participant count January–April update
• Recap of Intergenerational days with Washington School
• Festival of Quilts update

Historic Preservation Committee

The Historic Preservation Committee is holding its regular May meeting, primarily to consider approving the April minutes and to receive updates on several ongoing items. These include the status of James Severt's historic street name application, progress on a virtual historic home/building tour, and updates on signs at Normal Park and the Legion building. The meeting is largely informational with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Consider approving minutes from April 17th meeting
• Update on James Severt's historic street name application
• Update on virtual historic home/building tour
• Update on Normal Park and Legion building signs

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board is holding its regular May meeting. Action items include approving borrowing privileges for delinquent patrons and the 2024-2028 strategic plan, with discussion of strategic goals and library standards. The board will also enter closed session to discuss personnel matters related to staff social media use.

• Approval of Borrowing Privileges - Delinquent Patrons
• Approval of 2024-2028 T.B. Scott Free Library Strategic Plan
• Discussion of Strategic Plan Goals & Objectives #4
• Wisconsin Trustee Essential #12: Library Standards
• Closed session on personnel matters related to staff social media use

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting to approve minutes and April vouchers, and to discuss several operational items including the Runway 16/34 project status, fuel farm maintenance, a Jet A fuel truck, and general airport maintenance. The agenda also includes updates on the F-84 Monument, a Master Plan update, and an Economic Impact Study by Jviation. Public comment is scheduled.

• Runway 16/34 project status update
• Fuel farm maintenance and expenses
• Jet A fuel truck discussion
• Acquire used box snow blade for tractor
• AWOS-Lightning Detector

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear a presentation from Ehlers Public Finance Advisors and consider the 2024 borrowing process, including 2023 and 2024 city and Tax Increment District (TID) borrowing, and refinancing of the 2022A Note Anticipation Note. The meeting includes public comment and approval of previous minutes.

• Presentation by Ehlers Public Finance Advisors on 2024 borrowing process
• Discussion of 2023 and 2024 City & TID borrowing
• Refinancing of 2022A Note Anticipation Note

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will consider hiring a Facilities Maintenance Manager, approve street use permits for Golden Harvest Market and Gesundheit Saloon, and act on several ordinance amendments covering polling places, lawn length, garbage disposal, and snow removal. The council will also vote on a resolution approving the adjusted Merrill Urban Area Boundary and consider a Class B liquor license for The Creative Spirit LLC.

• Hiring a Facilities Maintenance Manager
• Street use permit for Golden Harvest Market to close Pearl Street from Main to Thielman on June 1, 7 am-8 pm
• Class B liquor license for The Creative Spirit LLC, 129 N Prospect Street
• Ordinance amending Chapter 14 on lawn and grass length
• Resolution approving adjusted Merrill Urban Area Boundary

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Merrill Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a regular meeting with a public hearing for Mark Scott regarding a property at 607 N Cleveland St. The board will also consider placing the minutes from the February 5, 2024 meeting on file. No other substantive items are listed.

• Public hearing for Mark Scott, 607 N Cleveland St.
• Consider placing February 5, 2024 minutes on file

Fairgrounds Committee

The Merrill Festival Grounds Committee is meeting to discuss updates on the fair, rodeo, vendors, and Food Truck-a-Palooza, and to consider several agreements and requests. These include renting all 20 campsites to Powerhouse for a steak cook-off, leasing the grounds to the Lincoln County Fair Association, and allowing Jeremy Lee to use a building for a non-profit bunk bed project. The committee will also consider approving prior meeting minutes and filing the manager's monthly report.

• Consider camping rental of all 20 sites to Powerhouse for Paws for a Cause steak cook-off on Aug 15-17
• Discuss and consider lease of Merrill Festival Grounds between City of Merrill and Lincoln County Fair Association
• Request from Jeremy Lee to use a Festival Grounds building for non-profit to build bunk beds for less fortunate children
• Approve minutes from March 7th meeting
• Monthly report from Festival Grounds Manager Bjorklund

City Plan Commission

The Merrill City Plan Commission will hold a regular meeting to consider a petition to vacate a 204-foot portion of E 5th Street near St. John Lutheran Church. The vacation is intended to allow expansion of a daycare facility, improve parking, and increase safety for school children. The Board of Public Works recommends approval. The meeting will also include approval of minutes from the December 5, 2023 meeting and public comment.

• Petition to vacate 204-foot portion of E 5th Street
• Vacation to support daycare expansion, parking, and school child safety
• Board of Public Works recommends approval
• Minutes from December 5, 2023 meeting to be placed on file

Common Council

This is an orientation session for the Common Council, not a regular decision-making meeting. New alderpersons will hear presentations from outside counsel on meeting etiquette, workplace harassment, open meetings laws, and cell phone use, followed by the finance director's overview of the budget, voucher sheets, and TIF/TID districts. The city clerk will explain meeting guidelines, committees vs. commissions, and the chain of command. No votes or formal actions are scheduled.

• Presentation from outside counsel Bob Burns on alderperson role, harassment, open meetings, quorums
• Finance Director Emily Ley to present budget, voucher sheets, and TIF/TID overview
• City Clerk Lori Anderson-Malm to cover meeting and agenda guidelines
• Discussion of projects in the works and interest in city facilities tours

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will consider approving routine vouchers and reports, and will discuss several street-related items. The most notable item is a petition to vacate a 204-foot portion of E 5th Street for St. John Lutheran Church's daycare expansion. The board will also discuss updates to city ordinances on lawn length, garbage disposal, and snow removal.

• Petition to vacate 204-foot portion of E 5th Street for St. John Lutheran Church daycare expansion
• Discussion on blue information signs for Merrill Historical Society
• Annual large item pickup for city residents
• Update to Chapter 14, Article II, Section 14-36 on lawn and grass length
• Update to Chapter 30, Article II, Section 30-37 on unauthorized garbage disposal

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes and claims, elect a chairperson, vice-chairperson, and a representative to the City Plan Commission, and discuss general items. The commission may enter closed session to negotiate terms for renewing the Merrill Youth Hockey Association Concessions Contract. Monthly reports and public comment are also on the agenda.

• Approval of April 2024 bills
• Election of Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson
• Election of representative to City Plan Commission
• Closed session to discuss renewal of Merrill Youth Hockey Association Concessions Contract

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider approving vouchers, minutes, and requests from the Parks & Recreation Commission, including a grant application for ballfield lights and use of leftover City Band funds for Normal Park improvements. Monthly reports from city officials will also be presented and considered for filing.

• Approve request from Merrill Youth Fastpitch to apply for a grant for lights on ballfields at the MARC
• Approve leftover City Band funding for improvements at Normal Park, including power stations
• Approval of vouchers
• Approval of minutes from March 26 meeting
• Place monthly reports on file

Health and Safety Committee

The Health and Safety Committee will consider nuisance complaints, approve vouchers, and discuss deer population control options including enforcement and higher fines for feeding deer. They will also act on a liquor license application, a change of agent for a pharmacy, and two street use permits for a local saloon. Monthly reports from the fire chief, police chief, and humane society will be filed.

• Discussion on deer population control, including enforcement and higher fines for feeding deer
• Change of agent application for Walgreens #10574, 101 N Center Avenue, to Jeffry C. Klapperich
• Class B liquor license for The Creative Spirit LLC, 129 N Prospect Street
• Street use permit for Gesundheit Saloon, 1300 E Main St, on May 18, 2024, 5-11 pm
• Street use permit for Gesundheit Saloon, 1300 E Main Street, on August 17, 2024, 11 am-11 pm, for 150th Anniversary celebration

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is meeting to approve minutes and vouchers, hear public comment, and discuss operations. They will finalize core values and continue planning for the health fair. The agenda also includes updates on upcoming programs and events.

• Approval of March '24 meeting minutes and March/April '24 vouchers
• All of Us Research at MEC on April 29th, 9:30-11:30am
• Farm to Table 6-part series begins May 8th
• May workshop series: Medicare, Estate Planning, Write your own Obituary (Waid Funeral Home)
• Finalize Core Values and continue Health Fair Planning

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee is meeting to discuss updates on the Food Truck-a-palooza event, including revenue/expense reports and potential ARPA funding from the Common Council. They will also consider approving a shared photo library with the Chamber of Commerce and the purchase of two standing banners for the city. Monthly reports from staff and Midwest Communications will be reviewed and possibly placed on file.

• Food Truck-a-palooza revenue/expense report and progress update
• Discussion of ARPA funding from the Common Council for Food Truck-a-palooza
• Consider approving shared photo library with the Chamber of Commerce
• Consider approving purchase of two standing banners for the City of Merrill
• Future event: Midwest Communications Brand Kamp on May 2nd

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to consider approving minutes from its February 21 meeting and to discuss several general agenda items. These include historic street name applications for 2024, an update on a virtual historic home/building tour, and an update on Normal Park and Legion building signs presented by Elizabeth McCrank. The meeting is a regular business session with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Consider approving minutes from February 21 meeting
• Historic Street Name Applications for 2024
• Update on virtual historic home/building tour
• Update on Normal Park and Legion building signs by Elizabeth McCrank

General

The City of Merrill Board of Review is holding a special meeting to address the assessment roll, which is not completed due to the city's revaluation. The board will adjourn this meeting until October 2024, with possible dates of October 14, 15, or 24, and meeting times of 3:00, 4:00, or 5:00 pm. No other substantive business is scheduled.

• Board of Review adjourned to October 2024 due to incomplete assessment roll from revaluation
• Possible October dates: Monday, October 14; Tuesday, October 15; Thursday, October 24
• Meeting time options: 3:00 pm, 4:00 pm, or 5:00 pm (3-hour minimum)

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting to discuss airport operations and maintenance. Agenda items include approving minutes and vouchers, reviewing the Runway 16/34 project status, fuel farm maintenance, and acquiring a used snow blade. The commission will also hear reports on the master plan, economic impact study, and other administrative matters.

• Runway 16/34 Project Status update
• Fuel Farm Maintenance discussion
• Jet A fuel truck consideration
• Acquire used box snow blade for tractor
• F-84 Monument update

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board will review a cost estimate for the Youth Services Department Activity Room and decide whether to move forward with the capital project funding process. They will also discuss preliminary 2024-2028 strategic plan goals and objectives, and consider the re-appointment of Katie Breitenmoser as a county-appointed board member. The meeting includes routine consent items such as minutes, vouchers, and monthly reports.

• Action item: Review YS Department Activity Room cost estimate and approval to move forward with Capital Project Funding Process
• Discussion: Preliminary 2024-2028 Strategic Plan Goals & Objectives
• Discussion: Re-appointment of Katie Breitenmoser as County-appointed Board of Trustees member
• Consent items: Minutes of March 27, 2024; Vouchers for March 2024; Unaudited Monthly Revenue & Expense Reports; Monthly Statistical Report

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council is holding its reorganization meeting, including administering the oath of office to newly elected alderpersons and electing a council president and a Plan Commission member. The council will also consider changing its meeting time to 6:00 pm and vote on resolutions designating the official newspaper and depositories, plus honoring three outgoing alderpersons.

• Discussion on changing Common Council meeting time to 6:00 pm
• Election of Common Council President
• Election of Alderperson to City Plan Commission
• Resolution designating official newspaper for City of Merrill
• Resolutions honoring Paul Russell, Dick Lupton, and Steve Sabatke

Transit Commission

This is a routine procedural meeting of the Merrill Transit Commission. The agenda includes call to order, public comment, approval of minutes, an administrator's report, and scheduling of the next meeting, with no specific action items or discussion topics listed.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Administrator's report
• Next meeting scheduled for May 20, 2024 at 4:00pm at Merrill City Hall Council Chambers

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will consider several significant items, including the 2024-2025 police union contract, a proposed hiring freeze, and the allocation of remaining ARPA funds. The council will also review bids for a paving project and several liquor license applications.

• Consider 2024-2025 Merrill Police Union contract
• Consider hiring freeze except Police and Fire line positions
• Consider $517,380.50 paving bid for S Center Avenue and N Sales St
• Consider $9,999.76 in unallocated ARPA funds
• Consider elimination of Community Development Program Director position

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will discuss and consider how to allocate the remaining $9,999.76 in unallocated ARPA funds. They will also discuss and consider EV charging station placement at three proposed locations (Bierman Building, Agra Pavilion, MARC) and a possible funding source of $10,500, which is to be determined.

• Consider remaining unallocated ARPA funds of $9,999.76
• Discuss EV Charging Station placement at Bierman Building, Agra Pavilion, and MARC
• Possible funding source of $10,500 for EV charging stations, to be determined

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will hold its regular meeting, including approving minutes and claims, and discussing the 'Wall of Hope' proposal and potential Normal Park improvements. The commission may also enter closed session to negotiate the renewal of the Merrill Youth Hockey Association Concessions Contract.

• Continued discussion on 'Wall of Hope' proposal by citizen
• Discuss potential Normal Park improvements
• Closed session to negotiate renewal of Merrill Youth Hockey Association Concessions Contract
• Approval of claims: Bills April 2024

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works is meeting to approve routine vouchers and monthly reports, and to discuss several street and utility items. Key actions include considering bids for the M2024-02 Paving Project on S Center Ave and N Sales Street, discussing an updated 2024 Street Opening Permit and Fees, and discussing paving an alley near Our Savior's Church.

• Consider bids for M2024-02 Paving Project (S Center Ave and N Sales Street)
• Discuss and consider updated 2024 Street Opening Permit and Fees
• Discuss paving alley along north side of Our Savior's Church
• Approve Water & Sewer and Street Department vouchers
• Receive monthly reports from Building Inspector, City Administrator, Street Superintendent, and Street & Weed Commissioner

Library Board

The Merrill Library Board will consider and vote on several policies and purchases, including a new Animals in the Library Policy, a revised Loan Policy, and two endowment-funded purchases: a family computer workstation and a lawn mower. They will also review the 2023 annual report and discuss a youth services project update.

• Review and approval of Animals in the Library Policy
• Review and approval of Loan Policy
• Endowment Fund Request to Purchase Family Computer Workstation
• Endowment Fund Request to Purchase Lawn Mower for Library Property
• Approval of Jane Zander Trust Account Report

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider lifting or modifying a hiring freeze from a 2022 Committee of the Whole meeting and decide whether to fill two vacant or soon-to-be-vacant budgeted positions: Facility Maintenance Manager and Community Development Program Director. The committee will also approve vouchers, previous meeting minutes, and monthly reports from city officials.

• Hiring freeze motion from 2022 Committee of the Whole
• Facility Maintenance Manager position
• Community Development Program Director position
• Approval of vouchers
• Monthly reports from Mayor Hass, City Administrator Akey, Finance Director Ley, City Attorney Hayden, City Clerk Anderson-Malm, and Municipal Court

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will consider amending the city's tobacco purchase ordinance, approve several temporary picnic and liquor licenses, and review monthly reports from the fire and police chiefs. The meeting also includes routine items like approving previous minutes and vouchers.

• Amend Chapter 26, Article V, Section 26-136 on tobacco product purchase or possession
• Temporary Class B picnic license for Merrill Historical Society, April 27, 2024, at The Cosmo Hall, 401 E 3rd Street
• Temporary Class B picnic license for Lincoln County Fair Association, Aug 7-11, 2024, at Merrill Festival Grounds
• Class A liquor licenses for Makalu Real Estate LLC (1201 Grand Ave), Merrill Petroleum LLC (3350 E Main St), and Express Lane (702 N Center Ave)
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug and Police Chief Bennett, including 2023 annual reports

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will review minutes, financial vouchers, and monthly reports, and discuss several marketing initiatives including the Food Truck-a-palooza event, advertising at the Cosmo Theater, and EV charging station locations. The meeting is a regular session with no final votes expected on major items.

• Food Truck-a-palooza update and discussion, including JEM Grants, Foto News ads, and poster costs
• Discussion on advertising at the Cosmo Theater
• EV charging station locations discussion from Committee of the Whole
• Chamber Trade Show update and LCEDC Summit review
• Future event: Midwest Communications Brand Kamp on May 2nd

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes and vouchers, hear public comment, and discuss operations. The main items for consideration are continued discussion of the Mission & Vision Statement, including possible changes to Core Values, and a decision on the Health Fair. The meeting is open to the public, with remote attendance available.

• Approval of Feb 2024 meeting minutes
• Approval of February/March 2024 vouchers
• Continued discussion of Mission & Vision Statement for approval
• Core Values - review and consider changes
• Health Fair Discussion and Decision

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting to approve minutes and vouchers, and to discuss several operational items including the Runway 16/34 project status, fuel farm maintenance, and the Jet A fuel truck. The agenda also includes updates on the STOL competition, the F-84 Monument, and general maintenance items such as a used snow blade, AWOS, and the beacon. The chairman will report on the Master Plan, Economic Impact Study, Maintenance Hangar, RRL Fuels P&L, and telephone service.

• Approval of February vouchers and budget discussion
• Runway 16/34 Project Status update
• Fuel Farm Maintenance and Jet A fuel truck discussion
• Update on acquiring a used box snow blade for tractor
• Chairman's report on Master Plan and Economic Impact Study

General

The Merrill Transit Commission is meeting in a special closed session to conduct an exit interview with an outgoing transit employee and discuss application of employment policies. The commission may reconvene in open session to take action on matters discussed in closed session. The agenda contains no other business items.

• Closed session under Wis. Stat 19.85(1)(c) for performance evaluation data of a public employee
• Exit interview with outgoing Transit employee
• Possible reconvene in open session for action

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approving prior meeting minutes, receiving an administrator's report on ridership, employee status and recruiting, and the expanded service area, and discussing general agenda items. No specific action items or dollar amounts are listed.

• Approve minutes from previous meeting
• Ridership report
• Employee status and recruiting update
• Expanded service area discussion

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will consider approving a $503,253.37 bid for the O'Day Street Project, along with several temporary alcohol licenses for local events. The council will also take action on EV charging stations and approve routine financial reports and minutes.

• Bid for M2024-01 O'Day Street Project to Merrill Gravel & Construction for $503,253.37
• Temporary Class 'B' picnic license for Lincoln County Rodeo Association (June 7-9, 2024, Festival Grounds)
• Temporary Class 'B'/'B' picnic license for Merrill Chamber of Commerce (May 18, 2024, Festival Grounds)
• Temporary Class 'B' license for Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation (March 15, 2024, Expo Center/Bierman Building)
• Action on EV charging stations from previous Committee of the Whole

Committee of the Whole

The Merrill Committee of the Whole will hear a presentation from Mary Jo Wheeler of Wheelers Chevrolet about EV charging station placement and a program offered through GM. Following the presentation, the committee will discuss and consider the proposal. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Presentation from Mary Jo Wheeler of Wheelers Chevrolet on EV charging station placement and GM program

Fairgrounds Committee

The Merrill Festival Grounds Committee is holding its regular monthly meeting. Members will consider approving the February minutes, receive updates on the fair, rodeo, permanent vendors, and the events calendar, and continue discussions on offering discounts to organizations and on the campgrounds at the Festival Grounds. The meeting also includes the Festival Grounds Manager's monthly report and public comment.

• Continued discussion on offering discounts to organizations to use the Festival Grounds
• Continued discussion and update on campgrounds at the Festival Grounds
• Fair update
• Rodeo update
• Permanent Vendor update

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Merrill Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to handle routine approvals and several discussion items. The commission will consider approving February claims and minutes, and will discuss the connector trail name, an updated 5-year capital plan, and 2024 aquatic center hours. They will also review a request from Merrill Fastpitch to pursue a grant for lights and playground upgrades at the MARC.

• Continued discussion and potential decision on connector trail name
• Updated 5-year capital plan discussion
• Review/approve 2024 Bierman Family Aquatic Center operating hours (request to change slightly)
• Review/potentially approve request from Merrill Fastpitch to write a grant for lights on fields and playground upgrades at the MARC
• Approve February claims

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority will discuss and consider several development items, including a residential project along Spruce St extension, drainage improvements on Polk St, and a residential incentive application for 205 N Cleveland St. The meeting also includes a review of 2023 building permits and an update from the Lincoln County Economic Development Corp.

• Status update on potential residential development along Spruce St extension (TID No 7)
• Consider proposed Polk St. drainage improvements (TID No. 12)
• Review of updated 2023 Building Permit and Development Summary Information
• Continued review of Residential Incentive Program Application - 205 N Cleveland St (TID No. 6)
• Update from Lincoln County Economic Development Corp. (LCEDC)

Board of Public Works

The Merrill Board of Public Works will review and approve routine vouchers and monthly reports, and will consider bids for the O'Day Street project (M2024-01) and options for a sidewalk on O'Day Street from Center Avenue to the Golf Course. The board will also discuss a T-Mobile lease renewal. The meeting is a regular session with public comment.

• Consider bids for M2024-01 O'Day Street Project
• Options for sidewalk on O'Day Street from Center Avenue to Golf Course
• Discuss T-Mobile Lease Renewal
• Approve Water & Sewer and Street Department vouchers
• Monthly reports from utility, building, and street officials

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider approving January vouchers, minutes from the January 23rd meeting, and writing off personal property tax bills for Ascent Medical Group totaling $27,867.75 due to a terminated lease. The committee will also receive monthly reports from city officials and may enter closed session to discuss a city employee's unpaid leave request and personnel matters.

• Write off Ascent Medical Group personal property tax bills: 2022 $14,844.72 and 2023 $13,023.03, total $27,867.75
• Approve January vouchers
• Approve minutes from January 23rd meeting
• Receive monthly reports from Mayor Hass, City Administrator Akey, Finance Directors Ley and Unertl, City Attorney Hayden, City Clerk Anderson-Malm, and Municipal Court
• Closed session to consider employee unpaid leave request and personnel data

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee will consider approving three temporary alcohol licenses for local events, discuss a sidewalk safety issue on O'Day Street, and review monthly reports from the fire chief, police chief, and humane society. The meeting also includes routine items like approving minutes and vouchers.

• Temporary Class B picnic license for Lincoln County Rodeo Association to sell beer June 7-9 at Merrill Festival Grounds
• Temporary Class B wine license for Knights of Columbus on April 6 at Expo Center
• Temporary Class B picnic license for Merrill Chamber of Commerce to sell beer and wine on May 18 at Festival Grounds
• Discussion on sidewalk from Martin Street to Tee Lane on north side of O'Day Street due to safety concerns
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and Lincoln County Humane Society

Board of Canvass

The Board of Canvass is meeting to canvass the official results of the February 20, 2024 Spring Primary, specifically for the Aldermanic District 8 race. The agenda includes call to order, public comment, the canvass itself, and adjournment.

• Canvass of Aldermanic District 8 Primary results from February 20, 2024

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting to discuss airport operations and maintenance. Key items include the status of the Runway 16/34 project, a decision on fuel farm maintenance, and the potential purchase of a Jet A fuel truck. The commission will also consider approving the previous meeting's minutes and vouchers as part of budget discussions.

• Runway 16/34 Project Status
• Discussion/Decision on Fuel Farm Maintenance
• Jet A Fuel Truck
• Acquire used box snow blade for tractor
• Update F-84 Monument

Historic Preservation Committee

The Merrill Historic Preservation Committee is meeting to approve minutes, continue discussions on sign placement and future nominations, and consider approving a sign for Normal Park. They will also receive an update on the virtual historic home/building tour from Hallie Savall and Merrill Community Media. The meeting includes public comment and scheduling the next meeting for March 20th.

• Consider approving minutes from October 18, 2023 meeting
• Continued discussion on sign placement schedule and future nominations
• Consider and approve the sign for Normal Park
• Update on virtual historic home/building tour with Hallie Savall and Merrill Community Media

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting on February 21, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. in the Community Room. The board will vote on approving the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction 2023 Annual Report and will discuss the Jane Zander Trust Account, the MSR Design Youth Services Renovation, and board member recommendations. The agenda also includes a review of Strategic Plan Goals & Objectives #1 and a discussion on developing essential library policies.

• Action item: Approval of Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction 2023 Annual Report
• Discussion: Jane Zander Trust Account Report
• Discussion: MSR Design Youth Services Renovation Update
• Discussion: Library Board of Trustees Member Recommendations
• Discussion: Strategic Plan Goals & Objectives #1 Review

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission is holding a regular meeting to discuss transit operations. The agenda includes approving previous meeting minutes, an administrator's report on ridership and employee recruiting, and a general agenda item on the service area. No specific decisions or proposals are detailed in the agenda.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Ridership report
• Employee status and recruiting update
• Discussion of service area

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will consider approving January minutes and discuss updates on Food Truck-a-Palooza, including live radio broadcast proposals from WJMT and Midwest Communications, plus bounce house plans. They will also review spring marketing focuses on housing/relocation, sports, and events, and receive monthly reports from staff and Midwest Communications.

• Food Truck-a-Palooza live radio broadcast proposals from WJMT and Midwest Communications
• Bounce House update for Food Truck-a-Palooza
• Spring marketing focus on housing/relocation, sports, and events
• Chamber trade shows update
• LCEDC Summit on March 14-15

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council is holding its regular February 13, 2024 meeting. The main items are a proposed parking ordinance amendment, a temporary picnic license for St. Francis Xavier fish fries, and two mayor's appointments to city boards. The council will also approve prior meeting minutes, revenue and expense reports, and file committee reports.

• Consider a Temporary Class B picnic license for St. Francis Xavier, 1708 E 10th Street, for fish fry dates Feb 9, 16, 23, Mar 1, 8, 15, 22, 2024
• An Ordinance Amending Chapter 36, Article II, Division 4, Section 36-122 & 123 Parking; Health & Safety recommends approval
• A Resolution honoring Melissa J. Porath for long-time service to the City of Merrill
• Appoint Ian Cohrs to the Housing Authority, replacing Nicole Johnson, term to expire Nov 10, 2026
• Appoint George Henrichs to replace Bryan Bloch as Rodeo Association Rep on the Festival Grounds Committee

Redevelopment Authority

The Merrill Redevelopment Authority is meeting to consider a development agreement with Wendorf Construction LLC for residential development in TID No. 7, review the 2023 building permit and development summary, and act on a Residential Incentive Program application for 205 N Cleveland St in TID No. 6. The board will also hear an update from the Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and public comment.

• Resolution authorizing development agreement with Wendorf Construction LLC for residential development (TID No. 7)
• Review of 2023 Building Permit and Development Summary
• Residential Incentive Program Application for 205 N Cleveland St (TID No. 6)
• Update from Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation (LCEDC)

Police and Fire Commission

The Merrill Police and Fire Commission will hold a regular meeting to approve prior minutes, take public comment, and conduct closed-session interviews for firefighter/paramedic candidates, with possible action afterward. The agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Approval of minutes from October 23, 2023 meeting
• Closed session for firefighter/paramedic candidate interviews (Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(c))
• Possible action on candidate interviews in open session

Fairgrounds Committee

The Merrill Festival Grounds Committee is meeting to discuss updates on the fair, rodeo, permanent vendors, and the calendar of events. They will also consider promoting the grounds, including Food-Truck-a-Palooza and camping, and discuss offering discounts to organizations. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and a monthly report from the manager.

• Discussion on Food-Truck-a-Palooza on May 18, 2024
• Continued discussion on camping at Festival Grounds
• Discussion on offering discounts to organizations
• Monthly report from Festival Grounds Manager Bjorklund
• Approval of minutes from November 2nd meeting

Transit Commission

The Merrill Transit Commission will meet to approve minutes, hear the administrator's report on ridership, employee status, recruitment, and the 2023 Q4 report, and discuss a service area request from the mayor. The meeting is scheduled for January 29, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. at Merrill City Hall.

• Approve minutes of December 2023 regular meeting
• Administrator's report on ridership, employee status, recruitment, and 2023 Q4 report
• Discussion of mayor's request regarding service area
• Next meeting set for February 19, 2024

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will consider routine approvals including meeting minutes and vouchers, and receive monthly reports from city staff. They will also discuss a sewer backup expense for 605 S Foster Street and the 2024 projects list. The meeting is a regular session with public comment.

• Approve Water & Sewer Vouchers for November & December
• Discuss sewer backup expenses for 605 S Foster Street
• Discuss 2024 projects list
• Review delinquent property process update
• Receive monthly reports from Building Inspector, Public Works Director, Street Superintendent, and Street & Weed Commissioner

Personnel and Finance Committee

The Personnel and Finance Committee will consider several personnel matters, including a residency requirement exception for a new fire department hire and FMLA leave for a possible new hire. They will also discuss selling surplus street department equipment, writing off unpaid personal property taxes for two closed businesses, and reviewing WPS charges for city facilities.

• New hire residency requirement exception (Fire Department)
• New hire FMLA consideration for expected leave in first year
• Write off personal property tax: The 710 ($48.66, 2023)
• Write off personal property tax: Anderson & Associates ($104.13 total for 2022 and 2023)
• WPS charges for City Facilities, Jan–Dec 2023

Health and Safety Committee

The Merrill Health and Safety Committee is meeting to consider routine items including approving previous minutes, nuisance complaints, and monthly reports from the fire chief, police chief, and humane society. They will also discuss a proposed ordinance amending parking regulations and consider two temporary Class B liquor licenses for local events.

• Temporary Class B license for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church for fish fries on Fridays from Feb 9 to Mar 22, 2024 at 1708 E 10th Street
• Temporary Class B license for Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation for March 15, 2024 at Expo Center/Bierman Building, 303 N Sales Street
• Ordinance amending Chapter 36, Article II, Division 4, Sections 36-122 & 36-123 regarding parking
• Approval of vouchers and nuisance complaints
• Monthly reports from Fire Chief Klug, Police Chief Bennett, and Lincoln County Humane Society

Enrichment Center Committee

The Merrill Enrichment Center Committee is meeting to handle routine approvals and discuss operations. They will review the Christmas Joy recap, Strong Bodies program, and a user fees report with brainstorming ideas. The committee will also discuss the Health Fair and begin strategic planning to examine the mission statement and create a vision statement.

• Approval of Nov '23 meeting minutes
• Approval of Dec '23/Jan '24 vouchers
• User fees report and brainstorm ideas
• Health Fair discussion
• Strategic planning: examine mission statement, create vision statement

Marketing & Communications Committee

The Marketing & Communications Committee will consider approving prior meeting minutes and discuss updates on the Food Truck-a-Palooza event, including its overall plan, budget, and funding. They will also review marketing focuses for winter sports and spring housing/relocation, a street banner update, and information on the Broadband Act of 2023. Monthly reports from the social media specialist and contracted advertising will be presented and considered for filing.

• Food Truck-a-Palooza updates: plan, budget, funding summary
• Live on-site radio broadcasting options for Food Truck-a-Palooza
• Street Banner Update
• Broadband Act of 2023 (information only)
• Monthly reports: Social Media Specialist Savall (Dec/Jan), Social Media Analytics (Nov/Dec), Midwest Communications Baseline Report

Airport Commission

The Merrill Airport Commission is meeting to approve minutes and vouchers, and to discuss or decide on several operational items. Key topics include the status of the Runway 16/34 project, a recap and possible decision on fuel farm maintenance, a decision on a Jet A fuel truck, and a STOL competition at Merrill. The agenda also includes updates on the F-84 Monument, general maintenance (snow blade, AWOS, beacon), and the chairman's report on the master plan, economic impact study, Jviation, and maintenance hangar.

• Runway 16/34 Project Status
• Discussion/Decision: Fuel Farm Maintenance
• Discussion/Decision: Jet A fuel truck
• STOL Competition at Merrill
• Update: F-84 Monument

Library Board

The T.B. Scott Free Library Board of Trustees will meet to consider action items including a request to the Endowment Fund for a state-required fire alarm system upgrade and a request to dissolve the Book Fund Account into the Endowment Fund. They will also discuss the Youth Services Renovation update, the 2024-2028 Long Range Plan survey, and a solar bond impact update. The meeting includes routine consent items such as minutes and financial reports.

• Action item: Request to Endowment Fund for PerMar Fire Alarm System Upgrade required by State of Wisconsin
• Action item: Request to dissolve Book Fund Account into Endowment Fund Account
• Discussion: MSR Design Youth Services Renovation Update
• Discussion: 2024-2028 Long Range Plan Survey Report
• Discussion: Solar Bond Impact Update

Common Council

The Merrill Common Council will vote on several resolutions, including one opposing the federal American Broadband Act of 2023, one ratifying a two-year contract with the local firefighters union, and one thanking outgoing Co-City Administrator Corey Bennett. The meeting also includes routine items like approving previous minutes and placing committee reports on file.

• Resolution opposing H.R. 3557, the 'American Broadband Act of 2023'
• Resolution ratifying Jan 1, 2024–Dec 31, 2025 contract with International Association of Firefighters Local 847
• Resolution thanking Corey Bennett for service as Co-City Administrator
• Minutes from Dec 12, 2023 Common Council meeting
• Committee reports from TB Scott Library Board, Marketing & Communications, Parks and Recreation, and Tourism Commission