Committee of the Whole Meeting Packets

COLUMBUS COMMON COUNCIL – COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2021 – 6:45 PM COLUMBUS CITY HALL Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85021046512?pwd=cWEwNmw5WXZTdndvWld3d1lYUXo2QT09 Meeting ID: 850 2104 6512 Passcode: 226961 Dial: 312 626 6799 Due to the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic, the City continues to make efforts to minimize risk, including limiting in- person attendance at meetings. The Tuesday, December 7 meeting will be held remotely, with only essential personnel in City Hall. Members of the public wishing to view the meeting can do so on Zoom, on the City of Columbus Cable Channel 980, City Hall courtyard, or by streaming the meeting live from the Columbus website. We are working to implement additional technology measures to ensure the public has the opportunity to monitor the meetings. Citizens wishing to make public comment at the meeting via Zoom, please email Pat Goebel at pgoebel@columbuswi.us by noon on Tuesday, December 7. In your email, please include your name, address, and the Zoom profile name or phone number you will be calling from. 1. Roll Call 2. Notice of Open Meeting 3. Approve Agenda 4. Citizen Comments 5. Committee/Commission Minutes: o Cable Commission 10/13/21, Library 09/28/21, PFC 9/22/21, 11/9/21, Recreation 9/8/21,10/13/21 6. Review Knowles Nelson Stewardship (TAP) Grant Appraiser process 7. Review "Class B" Liquor & Fermented Malt Beverage License – Tea Time, LLC 8. Review Ordinance To Repeal & Recreate Section 34-1 Establishing Aldermanic Districts for City of Columbus 9. Storm Water Utility Ordinance/Information Update 10. Discuss establishing ethics committee 11. Review summary of Organizational Study 12. Convene to closed session per § 19.85(1)(g) to confer with legal counsel for the governmental body who is rendering oral or written advice concerning strategy to be adopted by the body with respect to litigation in which it is or is likely to become involved 13. Reconvene to open session 14. Adjourn  Minutes Columbus Cable Commission Wednesday, October 13, 2021 Council Chambers, City Hall, 6:00 pm Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8675089480?pwd=cTU5cDFwYXJXS2tQU0k4dGV2OQnhLZz09 Meeting ID: 867 6508 9480 Passcode: 147829 (312) 626-6799 (Chicago) (929) 205-6099 (New York) 1. Call to order  Called to order at 6:00 p.m. 2. Roll call - Determination of quorum  Andy Traxler, Adam Pulver & Michael Clark were present  Staff members David Bennett and Kyle Ellefson were present 3. Notice of public meeting 4. Approval of Minutes for June 21, 2021  Minutes were approved. 5. Approve agenda  Agenda was approved. 6. Comments of citizens present  No citizens were present for comments.  City Administrator, Kyle Ellefson presented the vaccine mandate information to the Commission. Bennett will work with Traxler to word and implement how meetings will take place until the mandate is lifted. 7. Old Business a. None 8. New Business a. Introduction of the Communications and Multimedia Coordinator  David Bennett introduced himself to the Commission. Bennett shared his background and is glad to be a part of the City. b. Update on the current state of Columbus Cable  Bennett presented his observations over the past month since his hire. He initially proceeded to get things back up and running as  the cable channels were virtually inactive for four and a half months. Bennett reconnected with the public library and some local churches and has been utilizing the Columbus School District’s production of short videos to help re-populate the channels.  Bennett brought up a failing modulator and possible projection system upgrade to the Commission. Traxler recommended as a future action item for Bennett to seek a quote / bid on possible upgrades. c. Current projects  Bennett has searched out local producers and has connected with the Daily Dodge to broadcast Columbus-related content. Bennett has also received episodes of the Speaking of Horses program that occasionally covers our area. Additionally, the former Media Coordinator is interested in helping out with programs.  Bennett has been working with local events to either promote and/or cover the event. Bennett has covered and promoted the Art and Author Fair – along with Oddtoberfest and will be working with the Columbus Area Historical Society to promote and cover their Shadows on the Hillside tours.  The A/V rack is being re-wired to alleviate interference issues to cable channels 980 and 981. Bennett is also working on a solution to update the projector system in the Council Chamber. d. Future projects  Bennett plans to keep fostering community involvement with the cable channels by actively searching for and working with local individuals and organizations that either want to learn to create content or are already able to.  Bennett will be looking to reach out to the Columbus School District to assess and determine the future of the “school’s” channel 981.  Bennett will be developing an equipment loan program. This will be done by identifying potential need, users and it can benefit the cable channels and greater community.  Ongoing equipment assessment and upgrades along with eventually filling the vacant part-time Production Specialist are also future projects. 9. Establish next meeting date   The Commission has decided on meeting on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 5:00 p.m. The Commission may move the meeting to 5:30 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. if members need to be accommodated. 10. Adjournment  Adjourned at 6:30 p.m. Columbus Public Library Library Board Meeting Tuesday, September 28,2021 Phyllis Luchsinger Callahan Meeting Room Pete Kaland called the rescheduled meeting to order at 5:10 p.m. Present remotely: Lindsey Ganz, Pete Kaland, Deb Haeffner, Sue Salter, Nora Vieau, Merry Anderson Adoption of the Agenda: Deb moved and Sue seconded a motion to approve the agenda. Motion carried. Disposition of Minutes: Deb moved and Sue seconded a motion to approve the minutes as corrected. Motion carried. Financial Report: Report submitted; discussion and approval tabled to October. Approval of Bills: Bills of $6,437.65 reported. Sue moved and Nora seconded a motion to approve bills. Motion carried. Director’s Report: Baker & Taylor did not bill in 2020 so 2021 invoice expenses include two $5,000 payments. See New Business for remaining budget report. Improvement project ongoing. CPL was not selected for NASA grant but was selected to receive a $3,000 grant to support “Racism and Anti-Racism in 21st Century American” event. Thirty-six people attended story time with local author Amber Sawyer and her professional harness racehorse, Derek. Since December 2019 the Virtual Project has presented 14 programs with 362 participants. Wausau Paranormal Society will present its findings on Friday, October 29. Lindsey continues to coordinate with Bright Futures and the Columbus School transition program to provide volunteer opportunities for adults at the library. Orientation began September 20. Ladies’ restroom toilets not working properly; work order submitted. President’s Report: None Friends of the Library: No report Correspondence: None Committee Reports: Personnel Committee did not meet in September Unfinished Business: City asking board members to turn in their vaccination cards for copying at City Hall by 10/6/21. OK to email them. New Business: The 2022 budget for the South Central Library System was passed by the Administrative Council. Lindsey attended the Columbia County Library Board meeting at which a reimbursement rate of 72.09% was approved for 2022. Dodge County has proposed a 100% reimbursement. The estimated county reimbursement is $138,000, up from 2021. Board discussed staff raises of 2 % relative to and consistent with the city budget request. Important to stress that the CPL budget request from the city will be modest because the county reimbursement is higher, but this may not be the case in the future. CPL Board will vote on budget draft in October. Adjournment: Deb moved and Merry seconded a motion to adjourn. Motion carried. Next scheduled board meeting October 19, 2021. Respectfully submitted. Merry Anderson, Secretary  MINUTES of COLUMBUS POLICE AND FIRE COMMISSION September 22, 2021 City of Columbus, City Council Chamber Columbus, WI 53925 1) Meeting called to order at 6:00 p.m. by PFC Chair Olson. 2) Roll Call: PFC Members present: L. Olson, Z. Kianovsky, R. Rule. PFC Members Absent: L. O’Donnell, T. Sumnicht. (City Counsel Liaison Trina Reid, and CFD Chief Hazeltine also in attendance) 3) Notice of compliance with Open Meeting law—Notice of Meeting and Posted Agenda by Olson. 4) Motion by Kianovsky to approve agenda. Seconded by Rule. Motion carried unanimously. 5) Motion to approve minutes of meeting of 06/24/2021 with an amendment to correct spelling of name of Ryan Rostad by Rule. Seconded by Olson. Motion carried unanimously. 6) Motion to approve minutes of meeting of 08/16/2021 byRule. Seconded by Olson. Motion carried unanimously. 7) Public Comments: None. 8) New Business. Motion by Kianovsky to convene in Closed Session per State Statute 19.85(1)(c) to consider employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data of any public employee over which the PFC has jurisdiction or exercises responsibility, specifically, to consider applications and conduct interviews for CFD Fire Captain 2 position. Seconded by Rule. Motion carried unanimously. PFC then convened in Closed Session at 6: 06 p.m. Motion to reconvene in open session by Kianovsky. Seconded by Olson. Motion carried unanimously. PFC then reconvened in Open Session at 8:15 p.m. Motion by Olson to place applicant Ryan Rostad on eligibility list for CFD Fire Captain 2 position. Seconded by Rule. Motion carried unanimously. Motion by Kianovsky to place applicant Jerrod Fox on eligibility list for CFD Fire Captain 2 position. Seconded by Rule. Motion carried unanimously.  MINUTES of COLUMBUS POLICE AND FIRE COMMISSION September 22, 2021 City of Columbus, City Council Chamber Columbus, WI 53925 Motion by Olson to place applicant Tim Delaney on eligibility list for position of CFD Fire Captain 2 position. Motion failed for lack of a second. Motion by Olson to place applicant Jacob Bisbee on eligibility list for CFD Fire Captain 2 position. Seconded by Kianovsky. Motion carried unanimously. Motion by Rule to place applicant Darrin Miller on eligibility list for CFD Fire Captain 2 position. Seconded by Kianovsky. Motion carried unanimously. 8) Motion by Kianovsky to adjourn. Second by ule. Motion carried unanimously. PFC adjourned at 8:25 p.m. The next regular meeting of the City of Columbus Police and Fire Commission is tentatively scheduled for Monday, November 9, 2021 at the Columbus Fire Station or Columbus Council Chambers. Special meetings may be called in the interim as needed. Minutes submitted by Zev Kianovsky, Secretary, Columbus Police and Fire Commission City of Columbus, Wisconsin. Minutes are drafted for approval. Minutes approved by PFC on 11/9/2021  MINUTES of COLUMBUS POLICE AND FIRE COMMISSION November 9, 2021 City of Columbus, City Council Chamber Columbus, WI 53925 1) Meeting called to order at 5:35 p.m. by PFC Chair Olson. 2) Roll Call: PFC Members present: L. Olson, Z. Kianovsky, L O’Donnell, T. Sumnicht. PFC Member Absent: R. Rule. (City Counsel Liaison Trina Reid, and CFD Chief Hazeltine and CPD Chief Weiner also in attendance) 3) Notice of compliance with Open Meeting law—Notice of Meeting and Posted Agenda by Olson. 4) Motion by Sumnicht to approve agenda. Seconded by O’Donnell. Motion carried unanimously. 5) Motion to approve minutes of meeting of 09/22/2021 by Olson. Seconded by Kianovsky. Motion carried unanimously. 6) Public Comments: None. 7) New Business. Written report and oral summary given by CPD Chief Weiner. Oral report given by CFD Chief Hazeltine. Motion by Kianovsky to convene in Closed Session per State Statute 19.85(1)(c) to consider employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data of any public employee over which the PFC has jurisdiction or exercises responsibility, specifically, to consider applications and conduct interviews for CFD Lieutenant Position. Seconded by O’Donnell. Motion carried unanimously. PFC then convened in Closed Session at 6: 04 p.m. Motion to reconvene in open session by Kianovsky. Seconded by Sumnicht. Motion carried unanimously. PFC then reconvened in Open Session at 7:43 p.m. Motion by Kianovsky to approve applicants Dan Retzlaff, Tim Delaney, Matt Ehrke and Ryan Rostad for placement on CFD eligibility list for CFD Lieutenant position. Seconded by Sumnicht. Motion carried unanimously. 8) Motion by O’Donnell to adjourn. Second by Sumnicht. Motion carried unanimously. PFC adjourned at 7:45 p.m. Minutes submitted by Zev Kianovsky, Secretary, Columbus Police and Fire Commission City of Columbus, Wisconsin. Minutes are drafted for approval. Minutes approved by PFC on 11/22/2021  Recreation Advisory Committee Wednesday September 8, 2021 Community Center, 161 N. Dickason Blvd. 6:30pm 1. Roll Call – Morschauser, Carthew, Hoppe, Meyers, Agnew, Albright, Hart, Voss. a. Absent - Schwoerer 2. Determination of Quorum - met 3. Notice of an Open and Posted Meeting – posted 4. Approve Agenda – Motion Hoppe, 2nd Hart 5. Approve Minutes of August 9, 2021 meeting – Motion Morschauser, 2nd Carthew 6. Citizen Comments & Communications – Carmen Bruss – Interested in baseball contract and communication. Copies of agreement, amendment, communication shared. Old Business 1. Recreation software – Two considerations, recommendation will be shared with Council. 2. Father and Son event date – Thirty-three enrolled for Battle Darts as of meeting time. Discussion to have future events more inclusive. 3. Freak Week events a. Pet Costume Contest b. Halloween Home Decorating Contest – Community vote c. Pumpkin Hunt – Kiwanis Park on 29th. Need to register. Community bonfire and DJ. d. Drive In Movie – “Goosebumps” – in car 4. Fitness Challenge Kids – Twenty-seven enrolled. 5. Discussion of CBO, CSA, CAYSO contract renewal restructure – Information shared on fees, agreement details for other cities and other Wisconsin Park and Rec. Board requested costs for fields. Director requested input on agreement details to recommend for next year. Still waiting on payment from CBO for fall season. 6. Discussion of MOU Scout Cabin – Old MOU shared. City is owner of Cabin and has not been receiving in kind payment per participant. Would like to rent out to other groups as City does own. New Business 1. Budget – Shared proposal. There will be no assistant. Director Report 1. Masks required. Volunteers also need to produce proof of vaccination or use Zoom. Adjourn- 8:20 – Motion Agnew, 2nd Hart Next meeting October 13, 2021  Recreation Advisory Committee Wednesday October 13, 2021 Community Center, 161 N. Dickason Blvd. 6:30pm 1. Roll Call – 6:30 – Albright, Voss, Agnew, Morschauser, Hart, Meyers, Schwoerer (remote). Excused – Carthew, Wallace 2. Determination of Quorum – Quorum met 3. Notice of an Open and Posted Meeting - Posted 4. Approve Agenda – Motion Hart, 2nd Schwoerer 5. Approve Minutes of September 8, 2021 meeting – Motion Morschauser, 2nd Agnew 6. Citizen Comments & Communications - None Old Business 1. Recreation Software update – Submitted. Council to review 19 October 2. Father and Son event recap – 68 participated. Future events inclusive. 3. Freak Week events – Tuesday, Thursday crafts at Senior Center a. Pet Costume Contest – Submit entries. Gift cards from Columbus Countryside Vet for 2 winners. b. Halloween Home Decorating Contest – 1st and 2nd place by district. Community vote for overall. c. Pumpkin Hunt – 36 currently enrolled. At Kiwanis with DJ and bonfire. d. Drive In Movie – Register. In cars by Pavilion. Popcorn, water, goody bag. 4. Fitness Challenge Kids – draw winning names – K-5 – Jacob Marquardt, 6-8 – Kaleb Marquardt, 9- 12 – No entry so drawn from all entries – Aliya Vanderwerff 5. Discussion of CBO, CSA, CAYSO contract renewal restructure – Small committee (Meyers/Morschauser/Albright) met with CBO reps (Schulz, Bruss) and discussed mowing, resident/non-resident fees, 2 seasons, financials. Will be meeting with CAYSO, CSA, and CBO again. Recommend explore contract for CFO tailored to agreement. 6. Discussion of MOU Scout Cabin – Preliminary meeting about to revisit old MOU. Include Boy and Girl Scout organizations for all ages, participant fee, availability for rentals, use of shared calendar. New Business - None Director Report – Working on budgets on 19 October Adjourn – 8:04 – Motion Agnew, 2nd Hart Next meeting November 10, 2021  2021 AGENDA ITEM Committee of the Whole Meeting date: December 7 _____________________ Council Meeting date: ______________________________ ITEM: Review and discuss appraisal services for Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant. SUBMITTED BY: Matt Schreiber__________________________________ DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER: The city of Columbus was previously awarded $403,468 for a TAP grant to build bike and pedestrian trails in Columbus. Because the TAP grant does not cover real estate costs the city also applied to the DNR for funding to acquire Permanent Limited Easements (PLE) for nine (9) parcels along the proposed trail. The DNR has tentatively approved a Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant to assist with the purchase of PLEs to complete the project as proposed. The first step in the acquisition process is to complete a Narrative Appraisal Report as identified by the DNR. The DNR provides a list of qualified appraisers and city staff has contacted several appraisers to get an estimate for services to complete an appraisal for the nine (9) parcels. The DNR is requiring that an appraiser be selected before the end of the year so the appraisals can be completed in early 2022. To date staff has received one estimate and one firm declined to bid due to availability. Staff will have an evaluation of bids at the 12-21-21 meeting but is requesting that this move forward to the council to meet the DNR timeline. LIST ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED: Request for Estimates ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Move the consideration of bids forward to the next meeting for final action.  Estimate for Appraisal Services The City of Columbus was tentatively awarded a Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Grant to assist with the purchase of several Permanent Limited Easements within the City of Columbus. The city of Columbus is looking to acquire a 20 foot wide Permanent Limited Easement to in order to complete recreational trails throughout the city. Your firm was identified from a list of appraisers from the Wisconsin DNR. The city is requesting an estimate for your services to complete a Narrative Appraisal report for the following properties: Parcel Owner Name Lineal Number Feet 1124 Carriage Apartments LLC 279 1124.4 WHPC-NIBP Portfolio LLC 480 1051.01 Lange-Ostrander-Hurd Post #62 American Legion 454 1032 Klinger, Melanie 55 1034 Gillman, Carol J; Gillman, Christopher R 64 1033 Flannigan, Ryan 47 1035 Martinson, John F 50 1036 Senn, Gregory Paul 59 1024.A Senn, Greg 55 The estimates should reflect an appraisal as required by DNR, further details can be found here: https://dnr.wi.gov/files/pdf/pubs/lf/lf0048.pdf Please provide an estimate for your services and provide a project timeline by December 3rd at 2:00 PM. For any questions please contact Matt Schreiber with the City of Columbus at (920) 623-5900 or mschreiber@columbuswi.us. Enclosed are some GIS maps that show the location of the properties within Columbus.  Property Acquisition Map City of Columbus 105 N Dickason Blvd Columbus, WI 53925 DISCLAIMER: 920-623-5900 This map is not a survey of the actual boundary of any property this map depicts. The City of Columbus does not guarantee the accuracy of the material contained here 4,800.00 in and is not responsible for any misuse or misrepresentation of this information or its SCALE: 1 = 400' Print Date: 4/30/2021 derivatives.  Property Acquisition Map City of Columbus 105 N Dickason Blvd Columbus, WI 53925 DISCLAIMER: 920-623-5900 This map is not a survey of the actual boundary of any property this map depicts. The City of Columbus does not guarantee the accuracy of the material contained here 9,812.50 in and is not responsible for any misuse or misrepresentation of this information or its SCALE: 1 = 818' Print Date: 4/30/2021 derivatives.  2021 AGENDA ITEM Committee of the Whole Meeting date: December 7, 2021 __________________________ December 21, 2021 Council Meeting date: ______________________________ ITEM: "Class B" Liquor & Fermented Malt Beverage License Application ______________________________________________________ SUBMITTED BY: __Pat Goebel, Clerk________________ ______________ DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER: A new "Class B" Liquor & Fermented Malt Beverage alcohol license application is before the Council for review. The applicant, Tea Time, LLC d/b/a Tea Time, is located at 150 & 158 E James Street. Background checks have been completed with no issues, and there are no delinquent taxes, assessments, fees, or utilities. She will be meeting with the building inspector & Fire Chief on Friday, December 3. The building inspector set up a re-inspection appointment on Monday, December 6. A report will be available at Tuesday's meeting. The applicant will be available via Zoom to answer any questions the Council may have. LIST ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED: Liquor License Application Review ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Review & forward to December 21 Regular meeting  Liquor License New / Renewal Application Review For the meeting of: COW: December 7, 2021, REG: December 21, 2021 Corporate/LLC Name: Tea Time, LLC Trade Name of Applicant: Tea Time License Type Requested: "Class B" Beer & Liquor Agent: Helen E Klock All Officers, Directors, and Members/Managers: Helen E Klock Address of Premises: 150 & 158 E James Street, Columbus WI 53925 Last year's Licensed Premises Description: New application Stored: N/A Sold: N/A Consumed: N/A Current year's Licensed Premises Description: Stored: Kitchen, display in bar & dining room Sold: All sales take place at the bar Consumed: Bar, dining room Was a complete application submitted to the City Clerk’s office? YES NO If no, missing item(s) include Is the license holder known to be in violation of any City Ordinances? YES NO If yes, see below. Reviewing Office Violations or Claims? Notes Police Department None Building Inspector Reinspection 12/6 - report on Tuesday Fire Chief None Water & Light Utility None Treasurer’s Office None Liquor Distributors None  2021 AGENDA ITEM December 7, 2021 Committee of the Whole Meeting date: __________________________ December 21, 2021 Council Meeting date: ______________________________ Update ordinance showing block numbers in each ward ITEM: ______________________________________________________ SUBMITTED BY: Pat Goebel, Clerk ________________________________ DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER: Due to Census 2020, the US Census Bureau have updated the block numbers located in each ward in the City of Columbus. This ordinance would update the block numbers in each ward. LIST ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED: Ordinance to Repeal & Recreate Section 34-1 Establishing the Aldermanic Districts for the City of Columbus. ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Review & forward to December 21 Regular meeting for approval.  ORDINANCE NO. ______________ AN ORDINANCE TO REPEAL AND RECREATE SECTION 34-1 ESTABLISHING THE ALDERMANIC DISTRICTS FOR THE CITY OF COLUMBUS The Common Council of the City of Columbus, Columbia County, Wisconsin does hereby ordain as follows: 1. Section 34-1 of the City Code of Ordinances is repealed in its entirety and recreated to now read as follows: Section 34-1 Aldermanic Districts. The City shall be divided into three aldermanic districts known as the first, second, and third aldermanic districts. The boundaries of each aldermanic district shall be as follows: (1) First aldermanic district. The first aldermanic district shall encompass wards 1, 2, 8 of the City. A. Ward 1. The first ward shall consist of the following blocks as numbered and identified by the 2020 US Census Bureau: 12001003, 12001004, 12001005, 12001006, 12001018, 12001019, 12001020, 12001021, 12002029, 12002059, 12002060, 12002061, 12002062, 12002063, 12002064, 12002066, 12002071, 12002077, 12002078, 12004000, 12004001, 12004002, 12004003, 12004004, 12004006, 12004007, 12004008, 12004009, 12004010, 12004011, 12004012, 12004018, 12004019, 12004022 B. Ward 2. The second ward shall consist of the following blocks as numbered and identified by the 2020 US Census Bureau: 12002018, 12002019, 12002020, 12002030, 12002031, 12002033, 12002034, 12002035, 12002036, 12002067, 12002068, 12002069, 12002070, 12002072, 12002073, 12002074, 12002079, 12002080, 12002081, 12002082, 12002083, 12002085, 12002086, 12004005, 12004021, 12004024, 12004025, 12004026 C. Ward 8. The eighth ward shall consist of the following blocks as numbered and identified by the 2020 US Census Bureau: 11001101, 11001105, 11001106, 11001107, 12001000, 12001001, 12001002, 12001026, 12001027, 12001028, 12001029, 12002005, 12002006, 12002010, 12002012, 12002013, 12002014, 12002015, 12002017, 12002023, 12002024, 12002025, 12002026, 12002037, 12002038, 12002039, 12002040, 12002042, 12002044, 12002045, 12002047, 12002050, 12002051, 12002053, 12002058  (2) Second aldermanic district. The second aldermanic district shall encompass wards 5, 6, 7 of the City. A. Ward 5. The fifth ward shall consist of the following blocks as numbered and identified by the 2020 US Census Bureau: 12001025, 12003000, 12003001, 12003002, 12003003 B. Ward 6. The sixth ward shall consist of the following blocks as numbered and identified by the 2020 US Census Bureau: 12003012, 12003013, 12003014, 12003015, 12003016, 12003018, 12003022, 12003023, 12003033 C. Ward 7. The seventh ward shall consist of the following blocks as numbered and identified by the 2020 US Census Bureau: 12001007, 12001008, 12001009, 12001010, 12001011, 12001012, 12001013, 12001014, 12001015, 12001016, 12001024, 12002021, 12002022, 12002027, 12002028, 12002065, 12002084 (3) Third aldermanic district. The third aldermanic district shall encompass wards 3, 4, 10 of the City. A. Ward 3. The third ward shall consist of the following blocks as numbered and identified by the 2020 US Census Bureau: 12004013, 12004014, 12004015, 12004016, 12004017, 12004023, 12004027, 12004028, 12004032, 12004043, 12004044 B. Ward 4. The fourth ward shall consist of the following blocks as numbered and identified by the 2020 US Census Bureau: 12001017, 12001022, 12001023, 12003005, 12003006, 12003007, 12003017, 12003019, 12004020 C. Ward 10. The tenth ward shall consist of the following blocks as numbered and identified by the 2020 US Census Bureau: 12002032, 12002054, 12002056, 12002057, 12002075, 12002087, 12004029, 12004030, 12004031, 12004033, 12004034, 12004035, 12004036, 12004040, 12004041 2. Severability. If any portion of this Ordinance or its application on any person or circumstances is held invalid, the validity of this Ordinance as a whole or any other provision herein or its application shall not be affected. 2 3. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon its passage and posting as required by law. Adopted this ___ day of _____________, 2021. CITY OF COLUMBUS By: __________________________ Mary Arnold, Mayor By: __________________________ Patricia Goebel, Clerk 3  2021 AGENDA ITEM Committee of the Whole Meeting date: ____December 7, 2021_______ Council Meeting date: ____________ ITEM:_Storm Water Utility Update _ DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER: As we near the first listening session for the Storm Water Utility on December 14th, we wanted to present the most current draft of the Ordinance for discussion and questions. A copy of the draft information flyer is included as well for Council review. LIST ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED:  Draft Ordinance  Draft Information Flyer ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Advise if there are any questions or comments regarding the draft documents.  CHAPTER 104 Stormwater Utility 104-1 Establishment 104-2 Authority 104-3 Definitions 104-4 Rate Charges 104-5 Customer Classification 104-6 New Construction 104-7 City Credit Policy 104-8 Method of Appeal 104-9 Special Assessment Authority 104-10 Budget Excess Revenues 1 SEC. 104-1. – Establishment. The City of Columbus finds that the management of stormwater and other surface water discharge within and beyond the Crawfish River, Columbus Mill Pond, Robbins Creek, Meadow Creek and Second Ward Creek (the “City’s Waterways”) is a matter that affects the health, safety and welfare of the City, its citizens and businesses, and others in the surrounding area. Failure to effectively manage stormwater affects the wastewater utility operations of the City by, among other things, increasing the likelihood of infiltration and inflow in the sanitary sewer or providing a more restrictive phosphorus effluent limit for the wastewater treatment plant’s discharge into the Crawfish River. In addition, surface water runoff may create erosion of lands, threaten businesses and residences with water damage, and create sedimentation and other environmental damage in the City’s Waterways. Those elements of the City surface and stormwater management system (“the System”) that provide for the collection of and dispose of stormwater, reduction of sediment and nutrients in the City’s Waterways, and regulation of groundwater are of benefit and provide services to all properties within the City of Columbus, including property not presently served by the storm elements of the System. The cost of operating and maintaining the System and financing necessary repairs, replacements, improvements, and extensions thereof should, to the extent practicable, be allocated in relationship to the benefits enjoyed and services received therefrom. There is hereby established a City of Columbus Stormwater Utility. The operation of the Stormwater Utility shall be under the supervision of the Common Council. The City Administrator, or his/her designee, shall be the Director of the Stormwater Utility. SEC. 104-2. – Authority. The City, through the Stormwater Utility, may acquire, construct, lease, own, operate, maintain, extend, expand, replace, clean, dredge, repair, conduct, manage and finance such real estate and facilities as are deemed by the City to be proper and reasonably necessary for the creation and maintenance of a system of storm and surface water management. These facilities may include, without limitation by enumeration, surface and underground drainage facilities, storm sewers, ditching, water courses, retaining walls and berms and ponds, best management practices, and such other facilities as will support the System. SEC. 104-3. – Definitions. For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply: Words used in the singular shall include the plural, and the plural, the singular; words used in the present tense shall include the future tense; the word “shall” is mandatory and not discretionary; the word “may” is permissive. Terms not specifically defined herein shall have the meaning defined in Wis. Admin. Code § NR 216.003 and as the same may be amended from time to time, if defined therein; or if not therein defined, shall be construed to have the meaning given by common and ordinary use, as defined in the latest edition of Webster’s Dictionary. (a) Director. The term “Director” means the City Administrator, or his/her designee. (b) Developed Property. The term “developed property” means the real property that has been altered from its natural state by the addition of any improvements that may include a building, structure, impervious surface, and change in grade or landscaping. (c) Equivalent Runoff Unit (ERU). The term “ERU” means the statistical average horizontal impervious area of “single family homes” within the City of Columbus on the date of adoption of this ordinance. The horizontal impervious area includes, but is not limited to, all areas covered by structures (including axuillary), roof extensions, patios, porches, concrete pavement, asphalt pavement, gravel areas, driveways and sidewalks. (d) Impervious Area or Impervious Surface. The term “impervious area or impervious surface” means areas that have been paved, covered or compacted to inhibit the natural infiltration of water into the soil or cause water to run off the area in greater quantities or at an increased rate of flow from the present under natural conditions as undeveloped property. Such areas may include, but are not limited to, roofs, roof extensions, patios, porches, driveways, sidewalks, pavement, gravel or storage areas, athletic courts and compacted surfaces. Excluded from this definition are undisturbed land, lawn and fields. (e) Two-Family Residential Unit. A building designed for two separate dwelling units in which one dwelling unit may have a roof, wall, or floor in common with another dwelling unit. For purposes of this Chapter, duplex, twin-house, and two-flat dwellings are considered to be two-family residential. A single-family dwelling with an attached accessory dwelling unit is not a two-family dwelling. (f) Dwelling Unit. The term “dwelling unit” is defined as a room or group of rooms providing or intended to provide permanent living quarters for not more than one family. (g) Residential Property. The term “residential property” means any lot or parcel developed exclusively for residential purposes including, but not limited to, single-family homes, manufactured homes, duplexes, multi-family apartments, residential condominiums and townhouse living units. (h) Non-Residential Property. The term “non-residential property” means any developed lot or parcel not exclusively residential as defined herein, but not limited to, transient rentals (such as hotels and motels), the owner of a mobile home park or parcel, commercial, industrial, institutional, governmental property and parking lots. 3 (i) Runoff. The term “runoff” means the surface water, including all types of precipitation to include but not limited to rain and snow melt, which is inhibited by impervious surfaces from naturally infiltrating into soil. (j) Stormwater Facilities. The term “stormwater facilities” means all constructed facilities or natural features used for collecting, including infiltration or bioretention areas, storage and conducting stormwater to, through and from drainage areas to the point of final outlet. Stormwater facilities collectively constitute a stormwater system. (k) Undeveloped Property. The term “undeveloped property” means that which has not been altered from its natural state by the addition of any improvements, such as a building, structure, impervious surface, change of grade or landscaping. Agriculture cropland is classified as undeveloped property. For new building construction, a property shall be considered developed pursuant to this ordinance at the time of installation of the first roof on a structure (l) Operations and Maintenance. The term “operations and maintenance” means labor, materials and chemicals used regularly, and work activities or procedures that are established, commonplace, or repetitious, and are performed or should be performed frequently or on a schedule to sustain the functional integrity and efficiency of existing facilities and to provide upkeep for prevention of early decline or failure, or are performed as needed in response to minor emergencies, such as equipment and infrastructure repair or replacement, and includes the following performed on a recurring basis throughout the year to meet routine, daily functional needs. including any of the following: (1) Operational maintenance activities related to continuing normal performance of the functions for which an infrastructure item, assets or item of equipment is intended, including activities to keep building systems such as HVAC, lighting, and electrical utilities working properly. Includes purchase of capital (2) Custodial maintenance activities, such as housekeeping duties, rodent and pest control, and lawn mowing, snow removal, and trash and recycling removal associated with general day-to-day care and cleaning necessary to maintain constructed assets. (3) Capital equipment and vehicle expenditures necessary to accomplish the tasks, duties, and procedures of the utility. (4) Capital project expenditures necessary to establish, repair or replace stormwater assets and infrastructure. (5) Office activities related to billing, collections, customer communications, personnel, and other types of work activities that support the administration of the assets and infrastructure. 4  (6) Routine walk-through and other surveillance activities associated with identifying operational anomalies and ensuring all infrastructure and assets are working as intended. (7) Preventive maintenance, including scheduled service, repair, inspection, adjustment, or replacement of parts, to keep equipment or facilities in satisfactory operating condition, to avoid frequent breakdowns and premature replacements, and to achieve the expected life of constructed assets and installed building equipment, conducted with a frequency of one year or less. (8) Corrective maintenance, including unscheduled maintenance repairs to correct deficiencies during the year in which they occur. (9) Mobile equipment maintenance, including all corrective, preventive, emergency, or replacement maintenance work done on mobile equipment assets, except when performed at time of purchase of used equipment to bring the purchased equipment to a fully functional or improved condition, or both. (10) Recurring maintenance, including preventive maintenance activities that recur on a periodic and scheduled cycle of greater than 1 year, but less than 10 years. (11) Emergency maintenance, including unscheduled activities and repairs, such as repairing pipe breaks or blockages, or mechanical malfunctions in aged or damaged infrastructure, typically initiated within a very short amount of time from when a need is identified, to correct an emergency need to prevent injury, loss of property, or human health impacts, or to quickly return an asset to service, excepting emergency repairs or replacement needed due to damage caused by severe weather, cyber attacks, or other unforeseen serious emergency situations over which the municipality has no control. SEC. 104-4. – Rate Charges. (a) By this ordinance, the Common Council is establishing the rate charge upon each parcel within the City of Columbus for the Stormwater Utility. The actual charges to be imposed, the establishment of formulas for calculations of the charges, the establishment of specific customer classifications and any future changes in those rates, formulas, rate charges and customer classifications, may be made by resolution of the Common Council. All rates established pursuant to this ordinance will be fair and reasonable in accordance with the decision and judgment of the Common Council. The current rates will be on file with the City Clerk. (b) Rate charges shall be used to share the costs of the Stormwater Utility. The rate charges may include: 5  (1) Base Charge (BC). The Base Charge will be imposed on all parcels in the City. The Base Charge will be designed to reflect the fact that all properties benefit from the stormwater management activities of the City and that all property contribute in some way to the stormwater discharge that must be managed by the City. The BC will be designed to collect the administrative costs of the stormwater utility. The BC collected pursuant to this Chapter is not intended to replace any special assessments made for stormwater facility construction or improvements as part of a city project. (2) The ERU Charge. This charge shall be imposed on all parcels that has any developed impervious area. The ERU Charge will be designed on the basis of a typical residential unit of property. Other non residential units of parcels will be charged multiples of the ERU Charge, based upon the impervious area contributing to surface water runoff. (3) Special Charge (SC). This charge may be imposed on parcels that is in an area specially benefited by a particular stormwater management facility. The SC area will be defined and developed to reflect the benefits/services in a particular area that may not be appropriate to spread to parcels throughout the City. The SC will be calculated on an ERU basis. (c) The Common Council may make such other updates and revisions to customer classifications as will be likely to provide reasonable and fair distribution of the costs of the Stormwater Utility. In so doing, the Council may provide credits against certain portions of the charges set forth above for facilities installed and maintained by the property owner for the purpose of lessening the stormwater flow or pollutant load from that given property. The maximum amount of credit will not exceed 50% of the ERU charge. (d) Columbus Water & Light is hereby appointed as the collection agency for the City of Columbus Stormwater Utility for all property owners and Public Authorities. For purposes of this section, the term “Public Authorities” is defined as schools, churches, hospitals, city buildings, county buildings, state and federal buildings and any other parcel of land that is tax exempt for real estate tax purposes. Bills shall be prepared monthly by the City or its agent and sent to the owner of each property served. The City shall allocate among the properties served the actual cost of billing and collecting. (e) The bills for Stormwater Utility charges for public authorities shall be mailed to the designated utility bill recipient, but this mailing shall not relieve the owner of the property from liability for rental property in the event payment is not made as required in this chapter. The owner of any property served which is 6  occupied by tenants shall have the right to examine collection records of the City for the purpose of determining whether such rates and charges have been paid for such tenants, provided that such examination shall be made at the office at which the records are kept and during the hours that such office is open for business. (f) Stormwater Utility charges for Public Authorities shall not be payable in installments. If Stormwater Utility charges remain unpaid after a period of twenty (20) days from the date of the monthly utility bill, such bill shall become delinquent and shall incur late payment charges. Late payment charges shall be applied consistent with current Columbus Water & Light policy. Unpaid charges shall be assessed the same as the water utility bills (g) For all fees that are unpaid for parcels not owned by Public Authorities, the fee for the stormwater utility shall be placed on each parcel’s tax bill annually. SEC. 104-5. – Customer Classification. (a) For purposes of imposing the stormwater charges, all lots and parcels within the City are classified into the following five (5) customer classes: (1) Residential – Single-Family. (2) Residential –Two-Family (3) Residential – Multi-Family. (4) Non-Residential. (5) Undeveloped. (b) The Director or his designee shall prepare a list of parcels within the City of Columbus, and assign a classification of residential, non-residential, or undeveloped to each lot or parcel. (c) The average square footage of impervious area of the ERU is established to be equivalent to 3,600 square feet. (d) The charges imposed for single-family residential properties shall be the rate for one (1) ERU. (e) The charges imposed for duplex residential properties or two unit residential town houses shall be the rate for six-tenths (0.6) of one (1) ERU per each individual dwelling unit existing on the property (ERU rate multiplied by the number of dwelling units). (f) The charges imposed for residential condominium plats with a maximum of two dwelling units shall be the rate for six-tenths (0.6) of one (1) ERU per each 7  individual dwelling unit. (g) The charges imposed for multi-family apartment, condominium and townhouse residential properties that exceed two units per plat shall be the same as non- residential properties. (h) The charges imposed for non-residential properties shall be the rate for one (1) ERU, multiplied by the numerical factor obtained by dividing the total impervious area of a non-residential property by the square footage of one (1) ERU. The numerical factor shall be rounded to the nearest whole number, with a minimum factor of one (1). The formula is as follows: ERU rate multiplied by rounded whole number of impervious surface area in square feet divided by 3,600 square feet (i) No charge is imposed for undeveloped properties. (j) If for a non residential, multi-family apartment, condominium or town house residential property exceeding two units, the charges imposed by calculating one (1) ERU multiplied by the numerical factor obtained by dividing the total impervious area for the property by the square footage of one ERU results in something other than a whole number, the numerical factor should be rounded down to the nearest whole number if the numerical factor is less than 0.5. The numerical factor should be rounded up to the nearest whole number if the numerical factor is 0.5 or greater. The minimum ERU factor is one (1). (k) The Director shall be responsible for determining the impervious area, based upon the best available information, including but not limited to aerial photography, zoning administrator, and building inspector records, site plans, building permit records, the property owner, tenant, or developer. The Director may require additional information, as necessary, to make the determination. Upon property owner’s written notification and request for alterations to parcels, the Director shall review impervious area for possible additions or deductions to be applied to the fee. SEC. 104-6. – New Construction. The owner shall also be liable for stormwater charges, under this ordinance, for the improvement from the date of water meter installation or upon review of the actual impervious area is constructed. Sec. 104-7. – City Credit Policy. The City of Columbus Common Council shall adopt a credit policy by resolution of the Common Council to grant reductions to the ERU charge on a case-by-case basis. 8 SEC. 104-8. – Method of Appeal. (a) The Stormwater Utility charge may be appealed, as follows: (1) A written appeal shall be filed with the Director. (2) Within thirty (30) days of payment, a written challenge to the stormwater charge must be filed with the Director on behalf of the customer, specifying all basis for the challenge, any supporting documentation, and the amount of the stormwater charge the customer asserts is appropriate. Failure to file a challenge within thirty (30) days of payment waives all right to later challenge the charge. (b) A property owner not satisfied with the Director’s decision can appeal to the City Council for their review and action within thirty (30) days from the date of the Director’s written decision. Both the property owner and Director may supply additional written information to the Council. The Council may affirm, reverse or modify the Director’s decision. The Council’s written decision shall be provided to the Director and property owner. The Council’s determination is final. Within thirty (30) days of the date of the Council’s written decision, the property owner may appeal the decision to circuit court through a certiorari action. (c) If a refund is due to a customer, the refund can only be paid for amounts incurred during the current calendar year. SEC. 104-9. – Special Charge Authority. In addition to any other method for collection of the charges established pursuant to this ordinance for stormwater utility costs, the Common Council finds that these charges may be levied on property owned by public authorities as a special charge pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 66.0627. The charges established hereunder reasonably reflect the benefits conferred on property and may be assessed as special charges. The mailing of the bill for such charges to the owner will serve as notice to the owner that failure to pay the charges when due may result in them being charged pursuant to the authority of Wis. Stat. § 66.0627. In addition, the City may provide notice each October of any unpaid charges to the Stormwater Utility, which charges, if not paid by November 15, may be placed on the tax roll under Wis. Stat. § 66.0627. SEC. 104-10. – Budget Excess Revenues. The Stormwater Utility finances shall be accounted for in a separate Stormwater Management Fund by the City. The Utility shall prepare an annual budget, which is to include all operation and maintenance costs, administrative costs, depreciation costs, debt service and other costs related to the operation of the Stormwater Utility. The budget is subject to approval by the Common Council. The costs shall be spread over the rate classifications as determined 9 by the Council. Any excess of revenues over expenditures in a year will be retained by the Stormwater Management Fund for subsequent years’ needs. \\msnfs2\share\docs\WD\53481\107\A3937487.DOCX 10  CITY OF COLUMBUS Proposed STORMWATER UTILITY INFORMATION Recognizing these budgetary limitations while also understanding the public’s desire to see real, lasting improvements, the City of Columbus is considering the adoption of a stormwater utility fee. Establishing a utility would provide a dependable, dedicated funding mechanism for the City to maintain or improve stormwater management resources throughout the City. The City of Columbus has a history of flooding and other stormwater concerns. While nothing we do can flood-proof the City, there are In 2013, the State of Wisconsin passed Act 20, projects and improvements that could improve which required municipalities to reduce the tax conditions and mitigate some effects during levy by the amount of fees collected by high water events. Additionally, the stormwater Stormwater Utilities. That law created a path to infrastructure found throughout the City needs avoid the levy reduction, allowing local voters routine service and maintenance to ensure to approve a referendum authorizing the City proper operation when we need it most. to collect these fees and not reduce the levy by the amount of fees collected. The City has drafted ordinances to establish a Unfortunately, making lasting stormwater stormwater utility. We need you, the residents improvements can be a costly proposition. of the City to pass the proposed referendum in Because they are funded with tax dollars, in April of 2022 that will allow the collection of stormwater projects must compete with other fees without reducing the levy. The referendum projects and services like street and road question proposed is: maintenance or public safety commitments like police, fire, and emergency medical services. “Shall the City of Columbus Stormwater Utility Further complicating the issue are State be permitted to charge its customers for regulations that limit the amount of taxes we maintenance and operation of stormwater can collect to fund these projects and other management facilities and infrastructure programs that limit new expenditures by without reducing the levy limit for fees withholding State revenues in future years. collected?” https://www.cityofcolumbuswi.com/  WHO ELSE HAS A STORMWATER UTILITY? WHY NOT JUST USE TAXES? Currently, more than 120 communities in Currently, the City of Columbus funds stormwater Wisconsin have a stormwater utility in place to improvements with property tax revenue. Using collect fees for stormwater management and this traditional method of funding stormwater maintenance. Among these utilities, annual expenses, homeowners are responsible for more fees for residential properties range from $10 than 2/3 of the cost, while they only contribute to $175, with an average annual charge of just slightly more than 1/3 of the impervious area in over $63. the City. This creates a substantial disconnect Other communities with stormwater utilities in between the stormwater being generated and the region include: the cost of managing the stormwater. Aside from charging fees that fairly distribute the • Beaver Dam • Cambridge cost of stormwater management, there are several benefits to establishing a stormwater • De Forest • Jefferson utility: • Poynette • Stoughton • Revenue generated by the utility can only be used for stormwater expenses, and • Watertown • Waupun accumulates over time • Revenues are consistent, promoting long- term planning and improvements. • Property owners that take actions to reduce stormwater runoff can receive a credit to lower fees. BREAKDOWN OF REVENUES COLLECTED VIA: WHERE CAN I FIND MORE INFORMATION? The City has a variety of resources available on our website, including copies of the proposed Ordinance, related policies, and rate information. Please visit https://www.cityofcolumbuswi.com/ to learn more.  2021 AGENDA ITEM Committee of the Whole Meeting date: ____12/07/2021_______ Council Meeting date: ____________ ITEM:_Ethics Committee_ DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER: A discussion regarding an ethics committee was requested by elected officials. There is a State ethics code for local officials, but several municipalities have additional language in their Ordinance that establishes a local body to evaluate ethics questions or concerns. The Statutes allow municipalities to establish rules that are at least as stringent as the State Statute, and gives latitude for local governments to establish requirements that are more stringent. City Attorney Paul Johnson has a similar Ordinance from another community that could be used to design an Ordinance for the City of Columbus if the Council is interested. LIST ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED: ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Determine if there is a consensus to continue this discussion or give direction to staff regarding further actions.  2021 AGENDA ITEM Committee of the Whole Meeting date: __December 7, 2021_________ Council Meeting date: ____________ ITEM:_Organizational Study_ DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER: Below is a summary of 16 recommendations Public Administration Associates made regarding the Public Works Organization, Operations, and processes. Some of these items are in progress, while others could be pursued if the Council identifies them as goals or priorities.  Roadway Data Maintenance. Noted that in the future the Public Works Director should have the capability to enter appropriate data into the State WISLR system and generate a variety of useful reports. This recommendation has been a discussion even prior to the study being conducted. Prior to the next rating cycle, the goal is to have DPW staff learn the rating criteria and develop a system for staff to conduct ratings versus hiring our engineering firm to conduct the ratings.  Capital Improvement Planning. Recommendation to improve long-range capital planning, incorporating a full evaluation of all infrastructure in road maintenance decisions, a minimum five or ten year plan period, and potentially plans dedicated to capital facilities and the development of a ten year equipment replacement and maintenance program. Currently, staff are developing a capital equipment plan for non-utility operations, which should be ready for review by April, 2022.  Street Maintenance Planning. Recommendation to consider adopting by Ordinance the PASER standard for roadway conditions. The authors suggest this would avoid budgetary fluctuations when roadway systems fail. It is worth noting that this may also be addressed through a comprehensive capital improvement plan for roads and other infrastructure, which is already a priority for staff.  Public Works Facility. Recommendation to begin the process of making modifications to the office area of the existing DPW facility to create a more  productive atmosphere, and to begin the process of planning for a new facility and location, since the current campus is within the floodplain.  Recalibration of Responsibilities. Due to recurring vacancies, recommendation to ensure organizational practices and responsibilities are clearly identified, position- appropriate, with an emphasis on maximizing staff availability to work directly in the field. Additional recommendations identified a concept to split the staff into two teams or crews, and to reconsider the number and level of positions. Staff are reviewing some position descriptions for revision in the short term, and are considering how the remaining recommendations could be incorporated into our specific circumstances.  Lack of Direction on Public Works Priorities. Recommendation to establish a detailed maintenance operation standard for streets, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, street trees, buildings and equipment. The study identified some improvement in this area has already occurred, but recommended the development of a comprehensive plan including priorities, timelines and financial resources that the Council can approve.  Defined Priorities. Recommendation to utilize the priorities identified in the previous bullet point in order to provide guidance on what tasks DPW staff should perform. The bottom line is that the authors suggest shifting some tasks currently performed by Public Works to other staff, so tasks like cleaning park bathrooms, watering downtown flowers, and removing snow from sidewalks could be shifted to seasonal or non-DPW staff. Alternatively, instead of hiring additional staff or enhancing current positions, some tasks could be reduced in frequency, or eliminated altogether.  Team Building. Recommendation to improve low morale by engaging in formal and informal opportunities to develop teamwork and improve camaraderie. Suggestion to include the City Administrator and possibly the Mayor together with DPW staff to develop a strong sense of teamwork and joint purpose. The authors also suggested that implementing several of the study recommendations might improve morale.  Mission Statement. Identified that there is not a specific vetted and agreed upon mission statement, and made a recommendation to have the crew assist in creating a mission statement during a team building session.  Overtime Policy. Recommendation to review the overtime policy to determine if additional flexibility should be incorporated. The authors suggest some staff dislike the current policy, while others do not mind the current flexibility. A re-write of the Personnel Policy Manual is already underway, and this policy can be reviewed as part of the overall manual.  Evaluation of Contracted Versus In-House Performance of Services. Recommendation to consider which services should be contracted out, and which should be performed by in house staff. At any given time, there are multiple competing work demands for in-house DPW staff, but limited time to accomplish all of them. The DPW Director should make this determination as part of the daily work assignments, but must also consider the availability of budgeted funds.  Training. Recommendation to follow the training recommendations of the insurance carrier and current training provider regarding safety procedures and equipment. Additionally, with winter approaching, there was a recommendation to train specifically on snowplow operations, as well as specialized public works tasks. The City currently has a contract for safety training with MEUW, and supplements those trainings with others as time and resources are available.  Personnel Manual Implementation. Recommendation to update the personnel manual, which has not been reviewed in its entirety since 2013. Personnel Policy manual revision is already underway, and is expected to be submitted to the Council for review in early spring 2022.  Comprehensive Wage and Compensation Study. Recommendation to conduct a compensation study to compare our DPW to comparable communities. The authors indicated our wages are below average in the group they selected, and suggested the City consider a methodical approach that adjusts wages over several years to reduce the impact on State levy limits and expenditure restraint restrictions. The study indicated the wage evaluation could be conducted in-house, or by engaging a firm that specializes in this type of analysis.  Partnerships with Columbus Water and Electric Utility. Recommendation to review the relationship with the Columbus Water and Electric Utility. The authors noted that the current setup is different from many Wisconsin municipalities, and suggested that  this relationship should be reviewed, as there may be great potential for efficiencies and sharing of resources to improve both operations. Joint resources could include labor, equipment, engineering, planning and professional services.  Use of Geographic Information System (GIS). Recommendation to review our use of GIS, and explore additional opportunities to use the information to store and retrieve infrastructure information, including aspects of a maintenance management program. The authors recommended the City and Utility both review their use of GIS and develop plans to utilize the full capabilities. LIST ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED: ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Review the Organizational Study recommendations and provide feedback or direction to staff on additional actions.