Buffalo County public meetings in 2021

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Committee will consider the approval of a job description for the Sheriff's Office Administrative Assistant. The committee may also enter a closed session to discuss 2022 employee wage scales and salary rates for the Personnel Advisor and Land Information Officer.

• Approval of Sheriff’s Office Administrative Assistant job description
• Discussion of 2022 employee wage scales
• Establishment of salary rates for Land Information Officer
• Establishment of salary rates for Personnel Advisor

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee approved the Sheriff's Office Administrative Assistant job description with added duties, set 2022 wages for two positions, and discussed a potential courthouse mask mandate. The committee also entered closed session to discuss wage scales before returning to open session to set the specific salaries.

• Approved Sheriff's Office Administrative Assistant job description with added duties (carried)
• Set Land Information Officer wage at Step 4 Class F effective Jan 2, 2022 (carried)
• Set Personnel Advisor wage at Step 4 (carried)
• Moved to closed session to discuss 2022 wage scales (3-0)
• Returned to open session (4-0)

Law Enforcement & Emergency Management Committee

The Law Enforcement & Emergency Management Committee will review the job description and approval for an Administrative Assistant to the Sheriff. The committee will also consider hiring a Corrections Communications Officer.

• Approval of Administrative Assistant to the Sheriff job description
• Approval of hiring for an Administrative Assistant to the Sheriff
• Approval of hiring for a Corrections Communications Officer

The committee approved a revised job description for the Administrative Assistant to the Sheriff, following HR Committee changes, and approved filling the position after a resignation. It also approved filling a vacant Communications Corrections Officer position. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved minutes of November 8, 2021 meeting
• Approved revised Administrative Assistant job description
• Approved filling Administrative Assistant to the Sheriff position
• Approved filling Communications Corrections Officer position

Buffalo County Ordinances

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering an ordinance to rezone two parcels in the Town of Buffalo from Residential to Commercial zoning. The proposal follows a petition by property owner Joe Duellman, public notice, and a public hearing held by the Land Use Committee. The ordinance was adopted by a 12-0 vote on December 20, 2021.

• Rezone of parcels #006-00910-0000 and #006-00901-0010, totaling 1.44 acres, from Residential to Commercial
• Public hearing held October 15, 2021, at Buffalo County Courthouse
• Notice published in Buffalo County Journal on October 7 and 14, 2021
• Town of Buffalo Board acknowledged and supported the rezone

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to enter into settlement agreements with several pharmaceutical companies. The resolution also addresses the allocation of settlement proceeds and the establishment of dedicated accounts for opioid abatement and attorney fees.

• Authorization to enter settlement agreements with McKesson Corporation, Cardinal Health, Inc., AmerisourceBergen Corporation, Johnson & Johnson, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
• Establishment of a separate 'Opioid Abatement Account' for settlement proceeds
• Establishment of an 'Attorney Fees Account' to pay law firms up to 20% of proceeds
• Anticipated award amount of $354,625.52
• Anticipated amount for eligible expenditures of $283,700.42 after attorney fees

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to support and fund the re-monumentation of Public Land Survey System corners in the Town of Milton. The project is estimated to cost $226,000, with the Town contributing $60,000 and the County using state grant funding. If approved, the County Administrative Coordinator would be authorized to enter agreements with the Town and Auth Consulting & Associates.

• Resolution to fund Town of Milton re-monumentation project, estimated cost $226,000
• Town of Milton to contribute $60,000, including $10,000 credit already paid
• County to use Wisconsin Land Information Grant funds totaling $200,000 over 2022-2025
• Project must be completed by December 31, 2025, or County reimburses Town contributions
• Authorizes County Administrative Coordinator to contract with Auth Consulting & Associates

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is voting on a resolution to approve the Buffalo County Land Records Modernization Plan for 2022-2024. The plan updates the previous 2019-2021 plan and has been reviewed by the Land Information Council and Land Use Committee. Approval authorizes its publication, subject to state approval by the Wisconsin Department of Administration. The resolution has no anticipated fiscal impact as it is grant-funded.

• Approval of the Buffalo County Land Information Plan 2022-2024
• Plan updates the 2019-2021 Land Records Modernization Plan
• Plan reviewed by Land Information Council and Land Use Committee
• Subject to approval by Wisconsin Department of Administration
• No fiscal impact; grant-funded

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to appoint Auth Consulting & Associates as the County Surveyor for a two-year term ending December 31, 2022. The appointment, recommended by the Land Use Committee, would continue the current arrangement and has a budgeted personnel cost of $17,725 for 2022.

• Appointment of Auth Consulting & Associates as County Surveyor until December 31, 2022
• Resolution #20-12-01 previously appointed Auth Consulting through December 31, 2020
• Ron Jasperson continues as Deputy County Surveyor
• 2022 budgeted personnel costs: $17,725.00

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Economic Development/Finance Committee is reviewing a resolution to modify how broadband expansion is funded. The proposal seeks to use ARPA funds for projects in the Towns of Mondovi and Cross to preserve CAPX2020 dollars for future projects.

• Reallocating $200,000 from CAPX2020 to ARPA funds for Towns of Mondovi and Cross
• Authorizing $100,000 in ARPA funding for the Town of Naples for 2022
• Proposing a maximum of $1,200,000 in additional ARPA funding for future broadband projects
• Total potential ARPA funding for broadband expansion not to exceed $4,500,000

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to increase the per-call compensation for the Coroner, Chief Deputy Coroner, and Deputy Coroners from $125 to $150, plus mileage, effective January 2, 2022. The increase was recommended by the Human Resources and Finance Committees to aid recruitment and retention. The resolution is on the agenda for adoption at the December 20, 2021 meeting.

• Increase in per diem for coroner positions from $125 to $150 per death call
• Effective date: January 2, 2022
• Anticipated financial impact: $11,250 included in 2022 budget
• Committees involved: Human Resources and Finance

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to amend Policy 111 of the Employee Handbook. The amendment aims to clarify rules regarding salary administration, step increases, new hires, and employment separation.

• Resolution # QJ - 12-09: Amendment to Policy 111 (Salary Classification & Compensation System)
• Proposed effective date for amended policy: January 1, 2022
• Policy update covers new hire placement, step increases, and demotion procedures

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to amend Policy 301 of the Employee Handbook. The amendment aims to clarify eligibility, effective dates, health insurance incentives, and health reimbursement arrangements.

• Amendment of Policy 301 regarding Health Insurance and COBRA
• Proposed effective date for policy changes: January 1, 2022
• Clarification of eligibility for full-time and part-time non-temporary employees

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is reviewing a resolution to approve medical insurance plans with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield for 2022. The plan includes the Wisconsin Preferred Network and Minnesota Access Network, following a recommendation from the Human Resources Committee.

• Approval of Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield medical plans effective January 1, 2022
• Total budgeted impact for 2022 premiums estimated at $1,317,820.00
• Employer contribution to premiums set at $1,156,740.00
• Employee contribution to premiums set at $326,260.00

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Human Resources Committee submitted a resolution to recognize the retirement of Sonya J. Hansen. The resolution acknowledges her 22 years of service to Buffalo County, including roles in Health and Human Services and Administration.

• Resolution to honor Sonya J. Hansen for 22 years of service

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee will review and potentially act on three resolutions: appointing Auth Consulting & Associates as County Surveyor, approving the 2022-2024 Land Information Plan, and funding a re-monumentation project in the Town of Milton. The meeting is open to the public, with time for comments on agenda items.

• Resolution to appoint Auth Consulting & Associates as County Surveyor through Dec 31, 2022 ($17,725 budgeted)
• Resolution approving Buffalo County Land Information Plan 2022-2024 (grant funded)
• Resolution to support and fund Buffalo County Re-monumentation Project – Town of Milton

The Finance Committee approved three resolutions: appointing a county surveyor, authorizing the Buffalo County Land Information Plan 2022-2024, and supporting/funding the Buffalo County Re-Monumentation Project for the Town of Milton. All motions carried unanimously. No public comments or other reports were given.

• Approved resolution to appoint county surveyor (unanimous)
• Approved resolution authorizing Buffalo County Land Information Plan 2022-2024 (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to support and fund Re-Monumentation Project for Town of Milton (unanimous)

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to recognize and honor Randy Johnson, who is retiring in January 2022 after 30 years of service as a full-time Recycling Supervisor and Truck Driver. The resolution commends his service and extends best wishes for retirement. The agenda contains only this single recognition item.

• Resolution honoring Randy Johnson for 30 years of service
• Retirement effective January 2022
• Served as Recycling Supervisor and Truck Driver since April 16, 1991

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to recognize and honor Diane Mikelson upon her retirement from the Sheriff's Office on December 31, 2021. The resolution commends her for 32 years of service, including roles as Dispatch Officer, Communication & Corrections Officer, and Jail Lieutenant Administrator. The agenda contains only this single recognition item and no other business.

• Resolution honoring Diane Mikelson's retirement after 32 years of service
• Mikelson served in the Sheriff's Office since January 1, 1990
• Most recent role: Jail Lieutenant Administrator since March 24, 2002

County Board

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors will consider and act on a range of resolutions, including adopting the 2022 budget and tax levy, a new salary classification system for non-represented employees, health insurance plans, and entering into opioid settlement agreements. The agenda also includes zoning map amendments, retirement recognitions, and appointments. The meeting is open to the public.

• Resolution to approve 2022 budget and tax levy of $6,218,719.00 (with bond, bridges, and library funding, total levy $7,109,440.54)
• Resolution to adopt salary classification and compensation system for non-represented employees (total wages $6,392,307.00)
• Resolution to approve health insurance benefit plan for 2022 with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (total premiums $1,483,000.00)
• Resolution to authorize settlement agreements with opioid manufacturers (estimated $300,000.00 for Buffalo County)
• Ordinance to amend the Official Buffalo County Zoning Districts Map, Town of Buffalo

The Buffalo County Board approved a series of resolutions, including amending broadband funding to allow up to $1.3 million in ARPA funds, accepting a $354,625.52 opioid settlement, and adopting the 2022 salary and health insurance plans. All votes were unanimous with no opposition recorded. The board also approved several retirements, the Outdoor Recreation Plan, and appointments.

• Approved Ordinance #21-12-01 rezoning property in Town of Buffalo to commercial (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-12-04 adopting the 2021-2025 Outdoor Recreation Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-12-05 accepting $7,486.83 donation for K9 program (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-12-06 adopting salary classification for non-represented employees (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-12-11 amending broadband funding to max $1.3M ARPA (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-12-15 accepting opioid settlement of $354,625.52 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-12-10 increasing coroner per diem from $125 to $150 (unanimous)
• Appointed Nels Anderson as Land Information Officer effective Jan 2, 2022 (unanimous)

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors has adopted a modified salary classification and compensation system for non-represented employees. The changes, which include updated pay steps for various job titles, are scheduled for implementation on January 2, 2022.

• Adoption of new salary classification and compensation system for non-represented employees
• Implementation of updated pay grades effective January 2, 2022
• Total 2022 budget impact includes $7,362,429.00 for wages, social security, and employer retirement
• Pay scale updates for roles including Administrative Coordinator, DHHS Director, and Highway Foreman

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to accept a cash donation of $7,486.83 from Ye Old SchoolHouse Shoppe for the Sheriff's Office K-9 program. The funds would be deposited into the designated K9 Account and used for K-9 specific equipment. The resolution notes no tax levy impact.

• Accept $7,486.83 donation from Ye Old SchoolHouse Shoppe for K-9 program
• Funds to be deposited into designated K9 Account, audited annually
• Donation covers K-9 specific equipment for squad upfit
• Resolution cites Wis. Stat. sec. 59.52(19) for accepting donations

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to officially adopt the Buffalo County Outdoor Recreation Plan. This plan was developed through a planning program with the Mississippi River Regional Planning Commission and includes input from public surveys and meetings.

• Adoption of the Buffalo County Outdoor Recreation Plan (2021-2025)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider resolutions to modify broadband funding sources and to authorize entering into opioid settlement agreements with major pharmaceutical companies, which would establish an opioid abatement account. They will also discuss CAPX2020 fund allocation for repairs, review the 2022 finance calendar, and address an unpaid invoice for the Phase 1 Flyway Trail.

• Resolution to modify broadband funding sources
• Resolution to enter opioid settlement agreements with McKesson, Cardinal Health, AmerisourceBergen, Johnson & Johnson, and others
• Discussion on CAPX2020 allocation of funds for repairs and maintenance
• Review of 2022 proposed finance calendar
• Unpaid invoice for Phase 1 Flyway Trail Burlington Northern

The Finance Committee initially rejected a resolution to fund broadband with $200,000 from CAPX2020 and $1.5 million from ARPA funds, but then approved an amended version capping broadband funding at $1.3 million. The committee also approved resolutions on opioid settlement agreements, CAPX2020 repairs, the 2022 finance calendar, and payment of an unpaid Flyway Trail invoice.

• Approved amended broadband resolution with $1.3M cap (all in favor)
• Rejected original broadband resolution with $1.5M ARPA allocation (2-2)
• Approved opioid settlement agreements and authorized Administrative Coordinator to sign documents
• Approved CAPX2020 funds for repairs and maintenance
• Approved 2022 Finance Calendar
• Approved payment of Phase 1 Flyway Trail unpaid invoice
• Approved monthly vendor invoices, vouchers, payroll, and investment report

Buffalo/Pepin Community Justice Collaborating Council

The Buffalo/Pepin Criminal Justice Collaborating Council will meet via Zoom on December 15, 2021, to review and discuss routine items including minutes, financial updates, community work service reports, jail inmate status, the Moving Forward reentry program, and updates to the council's vision and mission statements. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major new proposals or public hearings listed.

• Financial update: CJCC balance $34,440.35 as of Nov. 1, 2021
• Community Work Service report: 386 hours completed in 2021
• Inmate status reports for Buffalo and Pepin county jails
• Moving Forward reentry program report
• Review of CJCC vision and mission statements

The Criminal Justice Collaborating Council (CJCC) for Buffalo and Pepin Counties met on December 15, 2021, and approved the November 16, 2021 minutes, the CJCC financial report showing a balance of $34,340.35, and the Community Work Service (CWS) report. The council discussed the Jail Reentry Program, teleconference classes in Pepin County Jail, and the upcoming Motivational Interviewing Training. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Approved minutes of November 16, 2021 meeting
• Accepted CJCC financial report with balance of $34,340.35
• Accepted Community Work Service (CWS) report
• Adjourned meeting at 12:33 p.m.

Committee of the Board

The Committee of the Board will review department presentations and discuss the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. The committee may also enter a closed session to discuss administrative office structure and goals.

• Presentations by departments for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding
• Allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding
• Closed session regarding administrative office structure and goals

The committee recommended allocating $1.3 million from ARPA funds for economic development, which could be used for broadband or tourism. All other funding requests, including premium pay, radio tower upgrades, and various program funds, were tabled until the next meeting. The committee also entered closed session to discuss administrative office structure and goals.

• Recommended $1.3M ARPA allocation for economic development (unanimous)
• Tabled remaining ARPA funding requests until next meeting
• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Entered closed session to discuss administrative office structure and goals
• Returned to open session after closed discussion
• Set next meeting for January 6, 2022, at 8:30 a.m.

Highway Committee

The committee is reviewing several personnel replacements and potential equipment purchases including a tandem axle cab/chassis and semi tractor. The agenda also includes discussions regarding building maintenance, road projects, and property acquisitions.

• Replacement of Parts & Inventory Specialist position
• Purchase of Tandem Axle Cab/Chassis
• Potential purchase of neighboring property
• Review of 2022/2023 LRIP Projects
• Discussion of Digital Communications Project and fuel system upgrades

The Buffalo County Highway Committee approved the WisDOT Routine Maintenance Agreement for $1,118,800 and the Traffic Maintenance Agreement for $23,880. They also approved monthly vouchers totaling $482,160.39, started the process to refill two positions, and approved equipment purchases. The Ducks Unlimited MOU was tabled.

• Approved monthly vouchers #28112-#28185 totaling $482,160.39
• Approved WisDOT Routine Maintenance Agreement for $1,118,800
• Approved WisDOT Traffic Maintenance Agreement for $23,880
• Tabled Buffalo County/Ducks Unlimited MOU
• Approved moving forward with Mid-States Truck for tandem axle cab/chassis purchase
• Approved raising semi-tractor price cap to $50,000 and mileage to 500,000
• Started process to refill Recycling/Highway Split Position
• Started process to refill Administrative Support Specialist position

Human Resources Committee

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee will meet to discuss and potentially approve job descriptions for the Community Justice Services Director/Manager and Diversion Specialist. The committee may also enter a closed session to address a voluntary PSLB/PTO transfer of hours request.

• Approval of Community Justice Services Director/Manager job description
• Approval of Community Justice Services Diversion Specialist job description
• Closed session regarding Buffalo County Voluntary PSLB/PTO Transfer of Hours Request
• Updates on the HR Personnel Advisor position

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee approved updated position descriptions for the Community Justice Services Director/Manager and Diversion Specialist, and approved a voluntary PSLB/PTO transfer of hours request in closed session. The committee also agreed to honor higher HRA amounts of $3,000 single and $6,000 family for 2022, as presented by Cottingham and Butler, instead of the previously approved lower amounts.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)
• Approved updated Community Justice Services Director/Manager position description (unanimous)
• Approved updated Community Justice Services Diversion Specialist position description (unanimous)
• Approved voluntary PSLB/PTO transfer of hours request (unanimous)
• Agreed to honor $3,000 single and $6,000 family HRA amounts for 2022

Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee

The Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee will hold a public hearing and take action on the 2022-2032 Land and Water Resource Management Plan, along with other items such as appointments, updates on Buffalo White Sands, and PL-566 watershed repairs. The agenda includes several review/discussion/action items, but no specific dollar amounts or contracts are listed.

• Public hearing on 2022-2032 Land and Water Resource Management Plan
• Recommendation of appointment to District Drainage Board
• Update on Buffalo White Sands
• Update on Resolution to Reallocate CAPX2020 Funding to PL-566 Repairs and Maintenance Fund
• South Nelson PL-566 Watershed Repairs/Maintenance

The committee unanimously recommended Barry Auer to the Judge for appointment to the District Drainage Board, filling the vacancy left by Tom Bollinger's passing. They also voted to instruct the Land Conservationist to request a one-year waiver from DATCP for the Land and Water Resource Management Plan, extending it to a nine-year plan. The meeting included updates on Buffalo White Sands, CCC structures, and PL-566 repairs, but no other formal actions were taken.

• Recommended Barry Auer for District Drainage Board appointment (unanimous)
• Instructed Land Conservationist to request one-year DATCP waiver for Land and Water Resource Management Plan (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 9, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee

The Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee will meet to discuss the proposed 2022-2032 Land and Water Resource Management Plan. Following the public hearing, the committee will make a recommendation to the Buffalo County Board of Supervisors for adoption.

• Public hearing for the 2022-2032 Land and Water Resource Management Plan
• Proposed plan adoption by the Buffalo County Board of Supervisors on December 20, 2021

The committee unanimously recommended Barry Auer to the Judge to fill the District Drainage Board vacancy caused by Tom Bollinger's passing. It also instructed the Land Conservationist to request a one-year waiver from DATCP for the Land and Water Resource Management Plan, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. No public comments were made at the hearing or meeting.

• Recommended Barry Auer for District Drainage Board appointment (unanimous)
• Instructed Land Conservationist to request one-year DATCP waiver for Land and Water Resource Management Plan (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 9, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Land Information Council

The Buffalo County Land Use Committee and Land Information Council will meet jointly to review and act on several items, including a proposed ordinance to rezone two parcels in the Town of Buffalo from residential to commercial for Joe Duellman's car sales use, a comprehensive revision of the Shoreland Protection Ordinance, and resolutions approving the 2022-2024 Land Information Plan, appointing a county surveyor, and funding a re-monumentation project. The meeting also includes discussion of electronic filing of POWTS, WLIP 2022 grants, and possible closed sessions to evaluate the Zoning Administrator and GIS Technician.

• Ordinance #12-20-01 to rezone parcels #006-00910-0000 and #006-00901-0010 (1.44 acres) in Town of Buffalo from Residential to Commercial for car sales
• Review of comprehensive revision of Buffalo County Shoreland Protection Ordinance (Ordinance no. 22-01-01)
• Resolution approving Buffalo County Land Information Plan 2022-2024
• Resolution to support and fund Buffalo County Re-monumentation Project – Town of Milton
• Approval of WLIP 2022 Grants

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee will review and act on several resolutions, including approving the 2022 health insurance plan with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, adopting a new salary classification system for non-represented employees, increasing coroner per diem rates, and setting the 2022 mileage reimbursement rate. They will also consider a lease amendment for COVID-19 safety protocols and review monthly financial reports.

• Resolution to approve 2022 health insurance plan with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, total premiums $1,483,000
• Resolution to adopt salary classification and compensation system for non-represented employees, total wages $6,392,307
• Resolution to increase coroner per diem from $125 to $150 per call, effective January 2, 2022
• Lease amendment to comply with COVID-19 safety protocols for federal contractors
• Establish county mileage reimbursement rate for 2022

The Buffalo County Finance Committee approved resolutions for the 2022 health insurance benefit plan, a salary classification and compensation system for non-represented employees (with mileage set at the IRS rate), and increased per diem for the coroner, chief deputy coroner, and deputy coroner effective January. The committee tabled a lease amendment request from the Farm Service Agency regarding COVID-19 safety protocols for federal contractors, pending legal clarification. It also approved monthly vendor invoices and vouchers.

• Approved previous meeting minutes.
• Approved resolution for 2022 health insurance benefit plan.
• Approved salary classification and compensation system for non-represented employees, with mileage at IRS rate.
• Approved resolution to increase coroner, chief deputy coroner, and deputy coroner per diem, effective January.
• Tabled lease amendment to comply with COVID-19 safety protocols for federal contractors.
• Approved monthly vendor invoices and vouchers.

ADRC Committee

The committee will consider transferring Congregate funding to Home Delivered funding for Buffalo and Pepin Counties. The meeting also includes reviews of 2022 transportation grant applications and updates on the Regional Aging Plan.

• Transfer of Congregate funding to Home Delivered funding in Buffalo County
• Transfer of Congregate funding to Home Delivered funding in Pepin County
• Approval of 2022 85.21 Buffalo County Transportation Grant Application
• Approval of 2022 85.21 Pepin County Transportation Grant Application
• Review of FoodShare Benefits for Senior Meals procedure

Economic Development Committee

The committee will review broadband expansion project updates and consider a resolution to modify funding sources. The meeting also includes a discussion on a tourism and marketing project and a potential closed session for an employee evaluation.

• Resolution to modify broadband funding sources to use ARPA dollars instead of CAPX2020 funds
• Authorization of a minimum of $200,000 in additional ARPA dollars for 2022 broadband projects
• Update on broadband expansion projects
• Review of Tourism and Marketing Project brochure and updates
• Potential closed session for employee evaluation

The committee approved a resolution to move 2021 broadband funding from CAPX to ARPA and to allocate up to $1.5 million in ARPA funds for 2022 broadband expansion. An earlier motion to approve the resolution as written failed for lack of a second. The committee also approved earmarking $50,000 in ARPA funds for tourism advertising and marketing.

• Approved amended resolution to use up to $1.5M ARPA funds for broadband expansion (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to move 2021 broadband funding from CAPX to ARPA (unanimous)
• Approved request to earmark $50K in ARPA funds for tourism advertising and marketing (unanimous)
• Motion to approve original broadband resolution as written failed (no second)

Highway Committee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee will meet to review and act on routine items like minutes and vouchers, and discuss or decide on several operational matters. Key items include a possible loader sale/trade, a parts/inventory position, a fuel system upgrade, and restructuring of the Recycling Department. The agenda also includes a presentation on Mississippi River Parkway signage and a request for a parking lot on CTH A.

• Resolution for MRT (Mississippi River Parkway) signing
• Loader sale/trade consideration
• Fuel system upgrade discussion
• Request for parking lot on CTH A
• 2022 election to use composite rates for winter maintenance equipment

The Buffalo County Highway Committee approved the low bids for a tri-axle truck and attachments totaling $226,409.92. They also approved monthly vouchers of $479,088.04 and the use of composite rates for winter maintenance equipment in 2022. The committee discussed but took no action on several items, including a bike route signage presentation, a property purchase, and a fuel system upgrade.

• Approved monthly vouchers #28032-#28111 totaling $479,088.04
• Approved low bids for tri-axle truck ($102,477.92) and attachments ($123,932.00) totaling $226,409.92
• Approved use of composite rates for winter maintenance equipment for 2022
• Approved minutes of previous meeting

Buffalo/Pepin Community Justice Collaborating Council

The Buffalo/Pepin Criminal Justice Collaborating Council will meet via Zoom to review and act on routine reports including finances, community work service, jail inmate status, the Moving Forward reentry program, and a veterans training update. They will also discuss the CJCC vision and mission statements, revised job descriptions, and 2022 meeting dates. The agenda is largely procedural, with most items being review/discussion/action on existing programs.

• Financial update: CJCC balance $34,440.35 as of Nov 1, 2021
• Community Work Service report: 386 hours in 2021, 14 participants
• Moving Forward reentry program: teleconference classes in Pepin County Jail, Spanish-speaking educational request
• Veterans training 'The Veteran Experience' for law enforcement, grant extended to July 1, 2022
• TAD 2022 funding & application update, revised CJS job descriptions

The Criminal Justice Collaborating Council approved updated job descriptions for the CJS Coordinator and Case Manager positions, realigning them with actual duties. The council also approved the October meeting minutes, the financial report showing a balance of $34,440.35, and the Community Work Service report. The Moving Forward reentry program resumed meetings after a hiatus, and the council discussed reviewing its mission and vision statements.

• Approved October 20, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved CJCC financial report with balance of $34,440.35
• Approved Community Work Service report
• Approved revised CJS Coordinator and Case Manager job descriptions
• No opposition to 2022 CJCC meeting dates

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Committee is meeting to discuss and act upon the 2022 health insurance benefit plan and the salary classification system for non-represented employees. The body will also consider amendments to the employee handbook and per diem increases for the coroner's office.

• Resolution to approve 2022 Health Insurance Benefit Plan with estimated total premiums of $1,483,000
• Resolution to adopt Salary Classification and Compensation System for non-represented employees
• Resolution to increase per diem for Buffalo County Coroner, Chief Deputy Coroner, and Deputy Coroner
• Approval of insurance providers including Delta Dental, Sun Life, BPA, and Optum Financial
• Discussion of OSHA ruling on COVID-19 testing and mandatory vaccination requirements

The committee approved the 2022 health insurance benefit plan, a salary classification system for non-represented employees with IRS mileage rates, and amendments to employee handbook policies. It also set employer medical insurance contributions (78% for full-time non-represented, 62% for part-time, 85%/80% for WPPA deputies), approved a $2,250/$4,500 HRA contribution, and approved non-medical insurance providers with a $100 opt-out incentive. Coroner per diem was increased by $25, and three retirement resolutions were approved.

• Approved 2022 health insurance benefit plan (unanimous)
• Approved salary classification system with IRS mileage rate and step placement rules (unanimous)
• Amended Policy 111 to change Step 9 to Step 6 in hiring sections (unanimous)
• Approved Policy 301 amendments on health insurance and COBRA (unanimous)
• Increased coroner per diem by $25 (unanimous)
• Approved employer medical insurance contributions: 78% county for full-time non-represented, 62% for part-time, 85%/80% for WPPA (unanimous)
• Approved HRA contribution of $2,250 single / $4,500 family (unanimous)
• Approved non-medical insurance providers and $100 opt-out incentive (unanimous)

Miscellaneous Agendas

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on the tentative County Supervisory District Plan and Map, as required by state statute. Following the hearing, the board may discuss and adopt the plan at its regular meeting immediately after.

• Public hearing on County Supervisory District Plan and Map
• Plan available for inspection at Buffalo County Clerk's Office
• Possible adoption of the plan at the regular board meeting

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution urging the Wisconsin Legislature to change the Managed Forest Law (MFL) Program. The proposed changes would require enrolled property to be the owner's homestead, cap enrollment at 160 acres per single entity (excluding trusts, LLCs, or corporations), and enforce program rules with higher fees or taxes. The resolution also asks that property taxes be kept current each year or the property would be disqualified. If adopted, the county treasurer would send the resolution to the governor, the Wisconsin Counties Association, and state legislators.

• Resolution supporting MFL Program changes: homestead-only enrollment, 160-acre cap, no trusts/LLCs/corporations
• Calls for increased MFL fees or taxes to cover inspections
• Requests automatic disqualification if real estate taxes are not kept current
• Directs county treasurer to forward resolution to governor, Wisconsin Counties Association, and state Legislature

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is adopting a final supervisory redistricting plan for elections beginning in 2022, following a public hearing held November 9, 2021. The resolution establishes 14 supervisory districts with specific ward and municipal boundaries, effective April 2022. This is a formal adoption of a plan previously approved in August 2021.

• Adopts final County Supervisory Redistricting Plan with 14 districts
• District 4, 5, 6: City of Mondovi Wards 1, 2, 3
• District 8: City of Alma Wards 1 and 2
• District 12: City of Buffalo City Wards 1 and 2
• District 13: City of Fountain City Wards 1 and 2

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is deciding whether to approve the 2022 tax levy and budget, totaling $7,109,440.54. The budget was reviewed by the Finance Committee in September and October 2021, published for public review, and a public hearing was held as required by Wisconsin law. The proposed tax mill rate would decrease from $5.713728 in 2021 to $5.554280 in 2022.

• County Operating Levy of $6,218,719.00
• Debt Service of $655,225.00
• County Library levy of $122,974.66
• County Aid Bridges levy of $112,521.88
• 2022 tax mill rate of $5.554280, down from $5.713728 in 2021

County Board

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing and vote on the 2022 financial budget and property tax levy, along with several related resolutions. The board will also consider an ordinance amending general rules of government, reappoint a commission member, and set supervisor compensation and boundaries. The meeting includes public comment on the budget and tax levy proposal.

• Resolution #21-11-01 to approve and adopt the 2022 budget and levy
• Ordinance #21-11-01 to amend the General Rules of Government
• Resolution #21-11-02 to establish compensation and per diem for county board supervisors
• Resolution #21-11-03 establishing 2022 county supervisor boundaries
• Reappointment of Allen Carothers to the Veteran Service Commission

The Buffalo County Board held a public hearing on the 2022 budget, which was balanced with General Fund dollars, and then approved the budget resolution and tax levy of $6,218,719.00 by unanimous roll call vote. The board also reappointed Allen Carothers to the Veteran Service Commission, tabled an ordinance amending the General Rules of Government until April, left supervisor compensation and per diem unchanged, approved the 2022 supervisory boundaries with no changes, and supported a resolution to change the Managed Forest Law program. Committee reports noted ongoing items such as a possible vaccination requirement, broadband expansion, and an estimated $300,000 from opioid litigation.

• Approved 2022 budget and tax levy of $6,218,719.00 (unanimous roll call)
• Reappointed Allen Carothers to Veteran Service Commission (carried)
• Tabled ordinance amending General Rules of Government until April (carried)
• Left supervisor compensation and per diem unchanged (unanimous roll call)
• Approved 2022 County Supervisory Boundaries with no changes (carried)
• Approved resolution supporting changes to Managed Forest Law program (carried)

Law Enforcement & Emergency Management Committee

The Law Enforcement & Emergency Management Committee will review a $7,486.83 donation for the K9 program and discuss filling the Jail Administrator position following a retirement. The meeting also includes discussions on law enforcement staffing updates and 2022 contracted dietician services.

• Resolution to accept a $7,486.83 donation from Ye Old Schoolhouse Shoppe for the K9 program
• Discussion of filling the Jail Administrator position due to retirement
• Review of 2022 contracted jail registered dietician services
• Review of law enforcement vouchers and expenditures
• Review of the Jail Administrator job description

The committee approved accepting a $7,486.83 K9 donation from Ye Old SchoolHouse Shoppe and forwarded a resolution to the Board of Supervisors. It also approved filling the Jail Administrator position after Lt. Diane Mikelson's retirement, with a revised job description, and contracted with WIC Trempealeau/Buffalo County for 2022 jail dietitian services. All reports were accepted, and no public comments were made.

• Approved September minutes as presented
• Accepted law enforcement vouchers as presented
• Approved K9 donation of $7,486.83 and forwarded resolution to Board of Supervisors
• Approved filling Jail Administrator position and backfill if necessary
• Approved revised Jail Administrator job description for Human Resources
• Approved 2022 contract with WIC Trempealeau/Buffalo County for dietitian services

Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee

The Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee will review and potentially act on several items, including approving an Outdoor Recreational Plan, filling a vacant Resource Management Specialist position, and hearing updates on local projects. The meeting is open to the public, with remote access available.

• Resolution to approve Outdoor Recreational Plan
• Fill vacant Resource Management Specialist position
• Update on Tell Farms, Inc. repayment agreement
• Update on Buffalo White Sands footprint compliance
• UW-Madison Extension Agriculture Institute staffing plan presentation

The committee approved the Buffalo County Outdoor Recreational Plan for 2021-2025, filling the vacant Resource Management Specialist position, and approving the unchanged position description. They also received updates on staffing changes, grant awards, and ongoing projects.

• Approved Buffalo County Outdoor Recreational Plan 2021-2025
• Approved filling vacant Resource Management Specialist position
• Approved unchanged Resource Management Specialist position description
• Approved minutes of previous meeting

Local Emergency Planning Committee

The Local Emergency Planning Committee is holding a public hearing to receive input on the updated 2021-2025 All-Hazards Mitigation Plan. The plan is required for eligibility for FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant programs. A brief presentation will precede public comments, and written comments were accepted until October 25, 2021.

• Public hearing on 2021-2025 All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
• Plan update per Federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000
• Eligibility for FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant programs
• Presentation on hazard risk assessment and mitigation projects
• Written comments due by October 25, 2021, to Lucas Teska, Emergency Management Director

County Board

The Buffalo County Board approved the appointments of Ryan VanDeWalle as Interim Administrative Coordinator effective January 1, 2022, and Cale Severson as County Land Conservationist starting November 8. The board also approved several resolutions, including modifying insurance policy, extending limited-term health positions, and authorizing a repayment agreement with Tell Farms. The redistricting resolution was tabled to November 9, and a resolution on CAPX2020 funding was also tabled.

• Approved appointment of Ryan VanDeWalle as Interim Administrative Coordinator (carried)
• Approved appointment of Cale Severson as County Land Conservationist (carried)
• Approved Resolution #21-10-02 modifying Policy 302 for WRS income continuation insurance (carried)
• Approved Resolution #21-10-03 extending three limited-term health positions through 2024 (carried, Bruegger no)
• Approved Resolution #21-10-04 extending limited-term public health worker position through 2024 (carried, Bruegger no)
• Approved Resolution #21-10-05 authorizing repayment agreement with Tell Farms Inc. for $6,021.39 (carried)
• Tabled Resolution #21-10-06 on CAPX2020 funding reallocation (carried)
• Tabled redistricting resolution #21-10-01 to November 9 (carried)

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Committee will meet to review health insurance renewal options and proposed wage classifications for the 2022 budget. The body will also consider several staffing changes, including converting limited-term health positions to permanent status.

• Proposed wage classification and scales for 2022 Budget
• Resolution to change three limited term health positions to permanent status through 2024
• Resolution to extend one limited term part-time health specialist through 2024
• Proposal to change Social Services Lead Worker to Social Services Manager effective January 1, 2022
• Filling the vacant Personnel Advisor position

The Human Resources Committee approved Anthem Blue Cross Preferred Plus and Blue Access health insurance plans, which come with a 17.3% decrease in premiums from current rates. The committee also approved several personnel actions, including converting three limited-term health positions to permanent status (amended to remove the word 'permanent'), extending a public health worker position through 2024, and changing a Social Services Lead Worker to a Manager position. Additionally, the committee raised the health insurance incentive to $200 per month for employees not taking the plan and approved various position descriptions and filling the vacant Personnel Advisor position.

• Approved Anthem Blue Cross Preferred Plus and Blue Access plans (unanimous)
• Approved goals and expectations for Administrative Coordinator
• Approved resolution to change three limited-term health positions to permanent status, amended to remove 'permanent'
• Approved resolution to extend limited-term Public Health Worker position through 2024
• Approved change of Social Services Lead Worker to Social Services Manager position
• Approved revised Social Services Manager position description and retitled Lead Worker description
• Approved transfer of PSLB/PTO in closed session
• Raised health insurance incentive to $200 per month for employees not taking the plan

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is voting on a resolution to authorize a repayment agreement with Tell Farms, Inc. The farm owes the county $6,021.39 for unreimbursed grant expenditures. If approved, the county would lend that amount from CAPX2020 funds at 1% interest, repayable within six months.

• Authorizes $6,021.39 loan to Tell Farms, Inc. from CAPX2020 funds
• Sets 1% interest rate with six-month repayment term
• Related to $646,713.00 in grants awarded in May 2019
• Land Conservationist authorized to execute documents

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to fund three full-time limited-term health positions. These roles, which include Public Health Nurses or Educators, would provide COVID-19 and communicable disease services using grant funding.

• Resolution to fund three full-time limited-term public health positions through December 31, 2024
• Projected net expenditure of $530,452.78 applied to grants for 2022-2024
• Estimated 2022-2024 salary and benefits cost of $604,422.96
• Use of ARPA, Immunization/Vaccine, and PHEP Workforce grant funding

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to extend a limited-term, part-time Public Health Worker position through December 31, 2024, to support COVID-19 vaccination clinics and related response activities. The position, funded by federal ELC funds and vaccination revenue, would otherwise end December 31, 2021. The resolution also allows for early termination if funding runs out or the need diminishes.

• Extends 600-hour limited-term Public Health Worker position from Jan 1, 2022 to Dec 31, 2024
• Position supports COVID-19 vaccination clinics, outreach, and registration
• Funding: approximately $740,000 in ELC funds and vaccination revenue available through 2024
• Projected expense: $10,638 per year, total $31,914 for 2022-2024
• Position can be terminated early if non-county funding is insufficient or need reduces

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to levy a special tax to fund the county's share of ten town bridge and culvert projects under state statute 82.08. The total cost of all projects is $225,043.77, with the county and towns each paying half. The resolution was approved by the Highway and Finance Committees and is presented for adoption by the full board.

• Resolution 26-6-07 levies tax for county aid to town bridges and culverts
• Total project cost: $225,043.77, county share: $112,521.89
• Projects include Palkowski Rd bridge in Montana ($100,000 total) and Siding Rd bridge in Buffalo Bluff ($30,000 total)
• Ten projects across townships: Buffalo, Buffalo Bluff, Canton, Dover, Modena, Montana, Naples, Waumandee
• Tax levy authorized under Wis. Stat. 82.08, exempting cities and villages that maintain their own bridges

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to amend Policy 302 of the Employee Handbook to add a voluntary Income Continuation Insurance (ICI) benefit for eligible employees through the Wisconsin Retirement System. The benefit would be paid entirely by participating employees via payroll deduction, with no current fiscal impact due to a premium holiday. The resolution also authorizes the Personnel Advisor to execute enrollment documents.

• Amendment to Policy 302 to add Section 5: Income Continuation Insurance Plan
• Voluntary benefit with employee-paid premiums via payroll deduction
• Effective date January 1, 2022
• 2022 fiscal impact: $0.00 (premium holiday)
• Requires resolution submission to Wisconsin Department of Employee Trust Funds

Highway Safety Commission

The Buffalo County Highway Safety Commission is meeting to receive updates from the Sheriff's Office, Highway Department, WisDOT, State Patrol, and other representatives. A key discussion item is the Hwy 35/25 intersection. The agenda also includes introducing a new medical representative and hearing citizen concerns.

• Discussion of Hwy 35/25 intersection
• Introduction of newly appointed Medical position member Beth Sass
• Sheriff's Office Update
• Highway Department Update
• Law Enforcement Liaison-WisDOT Bureau of Transportation Safety Update

The Buffalo County Highway Safety Commission met on October 21, 2021, and approved the July minutes. Members discussed safety concerns at the Hwy 35/25 intersection, where multiple crashes have occurred, and agreed to explore potential improvements such as rumble strips or a flashing stop light, with DOT follow-up. No formal decisions were made on this or other agenda items; the meeting was primarily informational and discussion-based.

• Approved July 2021 minutes (motion carried)
• Discussed Hwy 35/25 intersection safety; DOT to investigate improvements
• Discussed chevron placement on Hwy 88; DOT to follow up
• Discussed stoplight issues near Hwy 35/37 construction; DOT to look into it

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee approved moving forward with a new financial and payroll system from Tyler Technologies, with a final proposal to be brought back. It also approved resolutions to extend a limited-term public health worker position through 2024 and to change three limited-term health positions to permanent status. A resolution to reallocate unspent CAPX2020 funds for PL-566 repairs was tabled pending more information. The committee also approved the 2022 proposed budget direction, using part of health insurance savings for wages.

• Approved moving forward with Tyler Technologies financial system (unanimous)
• Approved resolution authorizing repayment agreement with Tell Farms, Inc. (3-0, 2 abstentions)
• Tabled resolution to reallocate CAPX2020 funds to PL-566 repairs
• Approved extension of limited-term public health worker position through 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved changing three limited-term health positions to permanent status (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for county aid for town bridges and culverts (unanimous)
• Approved monthly invoices and vouchers (unanimous)

Buffalo/Pepin Community Justice Collaborating Council

The Buffalo/Pepin Criminal Justice Collaborating Council will meet via Zoom to review and discuss routine reports on finances, community work service, jail inmate status, the Moving Forward reentry program, and a veterans special project. The agenda is largely procedural, consisting of standard updates and reports from staff.

• Review of financial update and Community Work Service report
• Inmate status and jail updates for Buffalo and Pepin counties
• Moving Forward Reentry Program report
• Veterans Special Project update
• TAD 2022 funding and application update

The Criminal Justice Collaborating Council approved the September 2, 2021 minutes (with corrections), the financial report showing a balance of $34,440.35, and the Community Work Service report. The council also discussed updates on jail reentry programs, including new teleconference classes and a planned law enforcement training on veterans, and noted a grant extension through July 1, 2022. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Approved September 2, 2021 minutes with corrections (motion carried)
• Approved CJCC financial report with balance of $34,440.35 (motion carried)
• Approved Community Work Service report (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 12:31 p.m. (motion carried)

Highway Committee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee will meet to review and act on several items including staffing positions, equipment bids, property purchases/sales, a fuel system upgrade, road and bridge projects, a town bridge aid resolution, and an adjusted budget. The meeting may also go into closed session for an employee evaluation.

• Consider bids on a ½ ton crew cab pickup
• Review status of neighboring property purchase and county-owned property sale
• Discuss fuel system upgrade
• Consider town bridge aid resolution (joint 50/50)
• Review adjusted budget

The Buffalo County Highway Committee approved monthly vouchers totaling $888,850.65, accepted a bid for a ½ ton crew cab pickup, and approved a town bridge aid resolution with a county share of $112,521.88. They also decided not to sell county-owned property, and authorized contacting Ducks Unlimited and the DNR about a parking lot on county property. A step increase for an employee was approved in closed session.

• Approved monthly vouchers #27902-#28031 totaling $888,850.65
• Accepted Fountain City Ford bid of $40,385 for ½ ton crew cab pickup
• Motion to not sell county-owned property (for potential wetland mitigation) carried
• Motion to contact Ducks Unlimited and DNR about parking lot on county property carried
• Accepted Town Bridge Aid Resolution with county share of $112,521.88
• Adjusted budget for bridge resolution and reduced GTAs by $3,500
• Approved step increase for Mr. Platteter effective 10/18/21

Land Information Council

The meeting includes a public hearing and discussion regarding a rezoning application for two parcels in the Town of Buffalo. The committee will also review the 2022 Surveyor budget, the draft Land Information Plan for 2022-2024, and various departmental reports.

• Duellman Rezone Application for two parcels in the Town of Buffalo
• Review of 2022 Surveyor Budget request
• Review of Draft Land Information Plan 2022-2024
• Review of WLIP 2022 Grant Applications
• Town of Milton Re-monumentation Agreement Revision

The Land Use Committee approved Joe Duellman's rezone application from residential to commercial for car sales, with conditions limiting sales to automobiles and a maximum of four vehicles. The committee also approved the 2022 surveyor budget, a re-monumentation agreement with the Town of Milton, and discussed the draft Land Information Plan and grant applications for further review.

• Approved Duellman rezone from residential to commercial for car sales (motion by McMillan Urell, seconded by Danzinger)
• Approved 2022 surveyor budget (motion by McMillan Urell, seconded by Nelson)
• Approved re-monumentation agreement revision with Town of Milton, including deadline and repayment clause (motion by McMillan Urell, seconded by Danzinger)
• Directed changes to draft Land Information Plan 2022-2024 for next meeting (motion by McMillan Urell, seconded by Danzinger)

Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee

The Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee is meeting to review, discuss, and potentially act on candidates for the County Land Conservationist position. The committee may enter closed session under Wisconsin statute to discuss employee performance related to the candidates, then return to open session. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with public comment and adjournment.

• Closed session discussion of candidates for County Land Conservationist
• Public comment period for agenda items
• Return to open session after closed discussion

The Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee met to interview candidates for the vacant County Land Conservationist position, but because only two of seven members were present, no quorum existed and no action was taken. The meeting was adjourned without any decisions.

• No action taken due to lack of quorum

Committee of the Board

The committee will discuss goals and expectations for the Administrative Coordinator position. The meeting includes a planned closed session to interview candidates for this role.

• Review of Administrative Coordinator goals and expectations
• Closed session to interview candidates for Administrative Coordinator

The Buffalo County Committee of the Board approved updated expectations and goals for the Administrative Coordinator position after discussion, and reviewed interview questions before entering closed session to interview candidates. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes and adjourned after a public comment on ARPA fund calculations.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting
• Approved updated expectations and goals for Administrative Coordinator position
• Moved into closed session to interview candidates (unanimous)
• Returned to open session (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 10:32 a.m.

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee will meet to review previous meeting minutes and potentially enter a closed session. The primary focus of the meeting is the discussion of candidates for the Administrative Coordinator position.

• Discussion of candidates for Administrative Coordinator position

The Buffalo County Executive Committee met and voted unanimously to enter closed session to discuss candidates for the Administrative Coordinator position, then returned to open session and adjourned. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Entered closed session to discuss Administrative Coordinator candidates (3-0)
• Returned to open session (3-0)
• Adjourned at 10:50 a.m. (3-0)

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Committee will discuss health insurance options and renewals following a proposed 10.9% increase from WEA Trust. The body is also considering a resolution to modify Policy 302 regarding the Wisconsin Retirement System's income continuation insurance and the wage scale for the Administrative Coordinator.

• Review of health insurance renewals with an initial WEA Trust increase of 10.9%
• Resolution to modify Policy 302 to include the WRS Income Continuation Insurance Plan
• Action on the wage scale for the Administrative Coordinator
• Review of paid holidays
• Update on the Human Resources SubCommittee

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee approved a resolution to modify Policy 302 to include voluntary income continuation insurance through the Wisconsin Retirement System at no cost to employees. They also approved a wage scale for the Administrative Coordinator position, adding it to the previously approved Group A scales. Health insurance renewal rates and other items were discussed but no final decisions were made.

• Approved resolution to modify Policy 302 for WRS income continuation insurance (unanimous)
• Approved wage scale for Administrative Coordinator (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Buffalo County Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to consider Jim Devlin's application (VAR 2021-1) for a variance to allow five dwellings on a private drive, exceeding the four-dwelling maximum in the county zoning ordinance. The property is in Section 25, Town of Alma. The board will take public comments, question the applicant, and may conduct a site investigation before acting on the application. They will also review and act on the minutes from the June 15, 2021 meeting.

• Variance application VAR 2021-1 by Jim Devlin for five dwellings on a private drive (maximum allowed is four) per Chapter 8, Section 4, A of the Buffalo County Zoning Ordinance
• Property located in NW ¼, SE ¼, Section 25, Town of Alma
• Public hearing with testimony, public comments, and board questions
• Possible site investigation at board's discretion
• Review and action on June 15, 2021 meeting minutes

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Sub-Committee will meet to review, discuss, and potentially act upon a proposed wage and classification structure. This follows previous discussions regarding salary scales based on job responsibilities and competitive wages from surrounding counties.

• Review/Discussion/Action on Wage and Classification Proposed Structure

The Human Resources Subcommittee reviewed the proposed wage and classification structure and reached consensus that it meets goals to raise positions at least 10% behind county averages without decreasing any employee's current scale, while reducing the number of classifications. No changes were made to the proposal, and it will be presented to the Human Resources Committee. The subcommittee also approved the minutes of previous meetings.

• Approved minutes of previous meetings
• Reached consensus that the proposed wage/classification structure meets objectives to increase positions 10%+ behind averages and avoid decreases
• Made no changes to proposed classifications despite requests from CJS Coordinator and Treasurer
• Decided to present the classification proposal to the Human Resources Committee

Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee

The Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee will review and take action on the 2022 county budget and financial plan for the Wildlife Abatement Program, consider participation in the Voluntary Venison Donation Program, and discuss updates on the Wildlife Abatement Program and the Buffalo White Sands site. The agenda also includes several grant-related items, including acceptance of a Hazelnut Grant Award and authorization to apply for a Surface Water Grant, as well as a resolution to reallocate unspent CAPX2020 funds to PL-566 maintenance.

• Review/Discussion/Action on 2022 County Budget/Financial Plan for Wildlife Abatement Program
• Resolution to reallocate unspent CAPX2020 funding to PL-566 Operation and Maintenance
• Acceptance of Hazelnut Grant Award ($57,000)
• Authorization to apply for Surface Water Grant
• Review/Discussion/Action on 2022 contract with UW Madison Division of Extension

The committee unanimously approved the 2022 county budget and financial plan for the wildlife damage abatement program, and also approved the 2022 136 Contract with UW-Madison Division of Extension. It set an October 15 deadline for Buffalo White Sands to provide an updated footprint or face a $100/day forfeiture, and accepted a $2,500 bid from J & J Diggers for PL-566 maintenance. Several other items were tabled or approved, including a hazelnut grant and a surface water grant application.

• Approved 2022 wildlife abatement budget and financial plan (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 136 Contract with UW-Madison Division of Extension (unanimous)
• Set Oct 15 deadline for Buffalo White Sands footprint, with $100/day forfeiture if missed
• Accepted $2,500 bid from J & J Diggers for PL-566 maintenance
• Approved resolution to reallocate unspent CAPX2020 funds to PL-566 maintenance (5-0)
• Approved repayment agreement with Tell Farms, Inc. as a six-month note (5-0)
• Tabled South Nelson watershed repairs pending cost estimates
• Accepted $50,000 Hazelnut Grant award with no county cost-share

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee will meet to consider interviewing candidates for the Administrative Coordinator position. The committee may enter a closed session to discuss employee performance.

• Interviews for Administrative Coordinator position
• Discussion of employee performance in closed session

The Buffalo County Executive Committee met on September 27, 2021, and unanimously voted to enter closed session to interview candidates for the Administrative Coordinator position. The committee returned to open session with no decisions requiring a vote from the closed session. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Entered closed session to interview candidates for Administrative Coordinator (3-0)
• Returned to open session (3-0)

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Finance Committee is considering a resolution to update fees for the Wisconsin Statewide Voter Registration System (WisVote). The proposal changes the fee to $1.00 per person based on 2020 Census population numbers, effective January 1, 2022.

• Resolution to adjust WisVote fees to $1.00 per person based on 2020 Census data
• Proposed fee change for Town of Buffalo from $420.00 to $746.00
• Proposed fee change for City of Mondovi to $2,845.00 if provided by County
• Proposed fee change for City of Buffalo from $640.00 to $1,007.00

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to authorize the County Clerk to acquire a tax deed on a delinquent 2018 real estate tax parcel in the City of Mondovi. The property is identified as Assessors Plat Lot 62, owned by Jonathan N & Samantha M Gore. The resolution was drafted by the Treasurer's Office and has been reviewed by the Finance Committee.

• Authorization to acquire tax deed for delinquent 2018 real estate taxes
• Property: 1940 Assessors Plat of City of Mondovi, Lot 62, 11-24N-11W
• Delinquent tax amount: $1,805.34
• Owners: Jonathan N & Samantha M Gore

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors voted to expand the qualifications for a full-time public health position created in May 2021. Originally restricted to Public Health Nurses, the role can now be filled by a Public Health Educator, Social Worker, or someone with a four-year degree related to Social Work. The change aims to fill the vacancy after unsuccessful recruitment efforts to ensure continuity of Children’s Long Term Services and other public health functions.

• Resolution Q1-QQ-02 expands eligibility for the full-time Public Health Nurse position created in May 2021.
• The position may now be filled by a Public Health Nurse, Public Health Educator, Social Worker, or holder of a four-year degree related to Social Work.
• The role provides Children’s Long Term Services (CLTS-W), reproductive health services, and disease investigation and control.
• The resolution cites unsuccessful recruitment efforts for the original nurse-specific position as the reason for the change.

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to amend the salary classification and compensation system for non-represented employees. The changes include adding a Parts and Inventory Specialist position, removing the Parts/Safety Training Coordinator and Public Health Dietician/WIC Director positions, and renaming the HHSD Child Support Financial Specialist to HHSD Child Support Specialist. The resolution states there is no financial impact.

• Adds Parts and Inventory Specialist to wage scale
• Removes Parts/Safety Training Coordinator position
• Removes Public Health Dietician/WIC Director position
• Renames HHSD Child Support Financial Specialist to HHSD Child Support Specialist
• Revises effective date of pay grade to September 27, 2021

County Board

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors will consider several resolutions, including the 2022 draft budget, a collective bargaining agreement with law enforcement officers, and updates to fees and positions. The board will also discuss the COVID-19 status and appoint a member to the Highway Safety Commission.

• 2022 Draft Budget review
• Resolution #21-09-01: Ratify 2022-2023 WPPA/LEER collective bargaining agreement
• Resolution #21-09-02: Change public health position to allow social worker or related degree
• Resolution #21-09-04: Identify delinquent 2018 real estate taxes
• Resolution #21-09-06: Approve recycling agreement with BBC&M municipalities

The Buffalo County Board approved several resolutions, including the 2022-2023 WPPA/LEER collective bargaining agreement for law enforcement officers, a change to allow non-nurse professionals to fill a public health position, and updates to salary classifications. The board also reviewed the 2022 draft budget, which still has a deficit of $1,309,395.92, and discussed COVID-19 case updates in local schools.

• Approved Resolution #21-09-01 ratifying 2022-2023 WPPA/LEER collective bargaining agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-09-02 expanding Children's Long Term Services position to include public health educator or social worker (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-09-03 amending salary classification and compensation system for non-represented employees (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-09-04 identifying delinquent 2018 real estate taxes (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-09-05 updating WisVote voter registration fees to $1.00 per capita based on 2020 Census (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-09-06 approving county recycling agreement with BBC&M (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Beth Sass to Highway Safety Commission (unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to update the job classification and pay grade system for non-represented employees. The changes include adding new positions, removing certain roles, and updating job titles to align with current descriptions.

• Establishment of Parts and Inventory Specialist position on wage scales
• Removal of Parts/Safety Training Coordinator position from wage scales
• Title change for HHSD Child Support Financial Specialist to HHSD Child Support Specialist
• Removal of Public Health Dietician / WIC Director following WIC program merger with Trempealeau County
• Update to the effective date of the Job Classification Pay Grade to September 27, 2021

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee will meet to interview candidates for the Administrative Coordinator position. The committee may enter a closed session to discuss employee performance.

• Interviews for Administrative Coordinator position

The Buffalo County Executive Committee met and unanimously voted to enter closed session to interview candidates for the Administrative Coordinator position. After returning to open session, no decisions were made from the closed session, and the meeting adjourned. No substantive actions were taken.

• Approved motion to enter closed session to interview candidates (3-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (3-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn at 2:50 p.m. (3-0)

Economic Development Committee

The committee will review updates on the Great River State Trail Winona Connector Phase II, including engineering proposals and maintenance agreements. Members will also discuss a partnership with Ducks Unlimited and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regarding a parking area for the Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge.

• Great River State Trail – Winona Connector PH-II engineering proposal and maintenance agreement
• Ducks Unlimited and USFWS memorandum for a parking area adjacent to Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge
• Financial update and review of the Economic Development expenditure ledger
• Discussion of the Basic Economic Development Course

The Economic Development Committee approved the Great River State Trail maintenance agreement, adding language that the Friends of The Flyway Trail (FFT) will be billed at the county highway rate for any maintenance performed by Buffalo County if FFT fails to complete minor maintenance in a timely fashion. The committee also voted to forward the Ducks Unlimited project in the Town of Buffalo along County Road P to the Highway Committee with recommendations for action. A budget adjustment of $1,000.00 for a Wisconsin Economic Development Association course in the second quarter of 2022 was discussed but not formally acted upon.

• Approved minutes of July 15, 2021 meeting
• Approved Great River State Trail maintenance agreement with added billing language for FFT (motion by Schmidtknecht, seconded by Danzinger)
• Forwarded Ducks Unlimited project to Highway Committee with recommendations (motion by Taylor, seconded by Schmidtknecht)

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee will review and potentially act on several resolutions, including changing a position to allow for a Public Health Educator or Social Worker, approving a recycling agreement with multiple municipalities, updating WisVote fees, ratifying a law enforcement collective bargaining agreement, identifying delinquent 2018 real estate taxes, and discussing the 2022 county budget. The meeting also includes routine items like approving minutes, vendor invoices, and reports.

• Resolution to change Children's Long-Term Services and Public Health Services position to allow for a Public Health Educator or Social Worker
• Resolution to approve County Recycling Agreement with City of Buffalo City, Town of Belvidere, Village of Cochrane, and Town of Milton
• Resolution to ratify 2022-2023 Buffalo County Law Enforcement Officers WPPA/LEER Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Resolution to identify delinquent 2018 real estate taxes
• 2022 County Budget review

The Finance Committee approved several resolutions, including the 2022-2023 WPPA/LEER collective bargaining agreement with a roll call vote, and a resolution to change a position to allow a public health educator or social worker. They also approved a recycling agreement with BBC&M, updated WisVote fees, and allowed a tax payment extension for one delinquent property. The 2022 budget remains over by $1.3 million, with recommendations to use general fund transfers.

• Approved 2022-2023 WPPA/LEER collective bargaining agreement (all in favor)
• Approved resolution to expand public health position eligibility (carried)
• Approved recycling agreement with BBC&M (carried)
• Approved WisVote fee update effective Jan 1, 2022 (carried)
• Approved extension for delinquent 2018 property tax payment until Jan 2 (carried)
• Approved 2020 overbudget general fund transfer of $5,792.90 (carried)
• Approved monthly vendor invoices and payroll (carried)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (carried)

Buffalo/Pepin Community Justice Collaborating Council

The Buffalo/Pepin Criminal Justice Collaborating Council meets to review routine reports on finances, community service, jail populations, and the Moving Forward reentry program. Members will also discuss the 2022-2026 TAD grant application for pre- and post-charge diversion programs, plus a veterans special project update. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major public votes or new policy decisions listed.

• Financial update: CJCC balance $34,440.35 as of Sept 1, 2021
• Community Work Service report: 299 hours in 2021, 13 participants
• Jail status reports for Buffalo and Pepin counties
• Moving Forward Reentry Program update, including new classes and Literacy Link
• TAD 2022 funding application for pre-charge and post-charge programs

The Criminal Justice Collaborating Council (CJCC) for Buffalo and Pepin Counties met on September 21, 2021, and approved the July 20, 2021 minutes (with corrections to be sent later), the financial report showing a balance of $34,440.35, and the Community Work Service (CWS) report. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included informational updates on jail reentry programs, veterans training, and the TAD grant application.

• Approved July 20, 2021 minutes with corrections (motion carried)
• Approved CJCC financial report with balance of $34,440.35 (motion carried)
• Approved Community Work Service report as drafted (motion carried)

Human Resources Committee

The committee is meeting to review, discuss, and take action on a proposed wage and classification structure. This follows a previous review of draft scales intended to align job duties with compensation and education.

• Review and action on Wage and Classification Proposed Structure

The Buffalo County Human Resources Sub-Committee reviewed a draft wage and classification structure, making modifications based on recruitment needs and surrounding county wages. No formal action was taken; a revised proposal will be presented at the next meeting on October 5, 2021. The meeting was adjourned at 10:15 a.m.

• Reviewed proposed wage and classification structure and made modifications
• Scheduled next subcommittee meeting for October 5, 2021 at 8:30 a.m.
• Adjourned meeting at 10:15 a.m.

Recycling Committee

The Buffalo County Recycling Committee will consider approving a new recycling agreement with the City of Buffalo City, Town of Belvidere, Village of Cochrane, and Town of Milton (BBC&M), along with a resolution. The committee will also review and act on the proposed 2022 Recycling Budget and an accompanying resolution. The meeting is open to the public, with options for in-person or remote attendance.

• Approval of County Recycling Agreement with BBC&M and accompanying resolution
• 2022 Recycling Budget and accompanying resolution
• Approve minutes of August 12, 2021 meeting
• Public comment on agenda items
• Next meeting date and agenda items

The Recycling Committee recommended approval of the County Recycling Agreement with BBC & M (City of Buffalo City, Town of Belvidere, Village of Cochrane, Town of Milton) to the County Board. The Committee also approved recommending the 2022 recycling program budget with no per capita increase, along with an accompanying resolution. Both motions passed without opposition. No next meeting date was set, pending approvals of the agreement.

• Approved minutes of July 8, 2021 meeting
• Recommended approval of County Recycling Agreement with BBC & M to County Board
• Approved 2022 recycling budget with no per capita increase and accompanying resolution
• No next meeting date set, pending County Board and BBC & M approvals

Highway Committee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee will meet to discuss and act on routine items including minutes, vouchers, staffing, equipment, buildings and grounds, roads and bridges, and the 2022 budget. The agenda includes consideration of a patrolman position, parts/inventory position, winter schedule, semi tractor purchase, and updates on property purchases and sales. The meeting is open to the public.

• Consideration of staffing for Patrolman and Parts/Inventory positions
• Discussion of winter schedule
• Action on semi tractor purchase
• Status updates on Waumandee office, neighboring property purchase, and county property sale
• Review of 2022 budget

The Buffalo County Highway Committee approved monthly vouchers totaling $631,007.42 and authorized the purchase of a semi-tractor at auction if within budget. They also discussed staffing, equipment, and the 2022 budget, suggesting reductions in machinery purchases to balance the budget. No other substantive decisions were made; several items were deferred for further review.

• Approved previous meeting minutes as sent
• Approved monthly vouchers #27831-#27901 totaling $631,007.42
• Authorized Sonya to approve semi-tractor purchase if found at auction within budget
• Deferred winter schedule start-time decision pending employee survey
• Deferred fuel system upgrade decision pending cost options review
• Deferred 2022 budget finalization; suggested reducing machinery list and adding CTH O project
• Deferred zoning vehicle replacement; bids to be brought back in October

Law Enforcement & Emergency Management Committee

The Law Enforcement/Emergency Management Committee will review and potentially act on the 2022 patrol and jail budgets, consider purchases under American Rescue Act funds, discuss radio tower site changes at Dairyland Power-Alma, and address backfilling law enforcement personnel due to resignations. They will also review monthly reports and expenditures for law enforcement and emergency management.

• 2022 Patrol Budget request totals $1,329,363.55 for jail and $819,880.91 for patrol salaries
• Consider purchases under ARA Funds (#998 and #316) for 2022 patrol budget
• Dairyland Power-Alma radio tower site changes
• Backfill law enforcement personnel due to resignations
• Law enforcement vouchers totaling $29,657.62 for August

The committee approved a request to the Allocation Committee for up to $75,000 in ARPA funds to cover identified law enforcement expenses, including radio tower equipment, ballistic shields, spike strips, and other items. They also approved the 2022 patrol and jail budgets as presented, the emergency management budget, and the backfill of two resigned communications/corrections officer positions. Vouchers and a radio equipment transfer were also approved.

• Approved July minutes (motion carried)
• Approved law enforcement vouchers (motion carried)
• Approved 2022 patrol/jail budget as presented (motion carried)
• Approved request to Allocation Committee for up to $75,000 in ARPA funds (motion carried)
• Approved Ancom transfer of radio equipment from old Dairyland Power site to new site (motion carried)
• Approved backfill of two budgeted communications/corrections officer positions (motion carried)
• Approved 2022 emergency management budget of $77,289 (motion carried)

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Sub-Committee will meet to review a proposed wage and classification structure. The committee will also determine next steps regarding this structure.

• Review and discussion of Wage and Classification Proposed Structure
• Determination of next steps for wage and classification

The Human Resources Sub-Committee reviewed a proposed draft of new class structures and wage scales, with the goal of grouping similar job duties and ensuring employees do not lose compensation. No formal action was taken on the proposal. Members will review the scales and comparable county classes before the next meeting to create a final classification list. The committee approved the previous meeting's minutes and scheduled the next meeting for September 20th.

• Approved minutes of the previous meeting (motion carried)
• Reviewed proposed wage and classification structure (no action taken)
• Set next meeting for September 20 at 8:30 a.m.

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Committee will discuss a 2022-2023 contract for law enforcement employees and insurance renewal options from Cottingham & Butler. The body will also consider resolutions regarding non-represented wage scales and staffing qualifications for public health services.

• 2022-2023 contract with Buffalo County Law Enforcement Employees (WPPA)
• Insurance renewal options and a medical plan RFP following a proposed 10.9% increase
• Resolution to update 2021 Non-Represented Wage Scales
• Resolution to allow Public Health Educators or Social Workers to fill CLTS-W/PH positions
• Review of Policy 201 – Paid Holidays

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee approved several resolutions, including modifying a position to allow broader hiring qualifications, updating wage scales, and approving a 2022-2023 contract with the law enforcement union. They tabled the health insurance renewal discussion to allow for RFP responses and further exploration. The committee also approved temporary office coverage for the Deputy Clerk of Court during FMLA leave and amended position descriptions for Account Clerk Supervisor and Veterans Services roles.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting (motion carried)
• Tabled insurance renewal discussion to next meeting (motion carried)
• Approved resolution to broaden Children's Long-Term Services position qualifications (motion carried)
• Approved resolution updating 2021 Non-Represented Wage Scales (motion carried)
• Approved 2022-2023 contract with Buffalo County Law Enforcement Employees (motion carried)
• Amended Account Clerk Supervisor position description to require Bachelor's or Associate Degree in Accounting (roll call: 4-0, Taylor excused)
• Approved amended Account Clerk Supervisor position description (motion carried)
• Approved temporary office coverage for Deputy Clerk of Court for up to 12 weeks during FMLA (motion carried)

ADRC Committee

The Aging and Disability Resource Center Governing Board will meet to approve minutes and consent agenda items, and discuss business items including a request to increase Aging Program Assistant hours, the 2022 budget, filling a Dementia Care Specialist position, and the 2022-2024 Aging Plan.

• Request to increase Aging Program Assistant hours effective January 1, 2022
• 2022 ADRC budget review
• Request to fill Dementia Care Specialist position effective January 1, 2022
• Approval of consent agenda including P-434 Transportation Sanitization & Screening Policy, A-07 Medical Statement, P-445 Dining Site Volunteer Duties, P-446 Volunteer Meal Delivery Driver Duties, and ADRC-005 Confidentiality Policy
• 2022-2024 Buffalo and Pepin Counties Aging Plan

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee is meeting to review, discuss, and potentially act on department budgets for 2022. The agenda also includes reports from the chairperson and administrative coordinator, and setting the next regular meeting date.

• Review/discussion/action on 2022 department budgets
• Chairperson report
• Administrative coordinator report on county updates
• Next regular meeting date set for September 23, 2021 at 8:30 a.m.

The Finance Committee reviewed the 2022 departmental budgets and directed staff to make several adjustments, including replacing a leased car, using self-insurance funds for health costs, increasing the Emergency Management position to 70%, and removing certain expenses. They also discussed potential fee schedule changes and ARPA funding for various items. No formal votes were taken; the changes will be compiled for the next meeting.

• Directed replacing one leased car in Administration Office with newer lease to save money
• Agreed to use $92,733 self-insurance fund balance for HRA or health insurance premiums
• Increased Emergency Management position to 70% funded by grant
• Removed new phone system and computers from budget, possibly using ARPA funds
• Removed chairs for hearing room and carpet extractor from budget
• Reduced Historical Society contribution to $5,000 and added $2,000 for Veteran Memorial wall
• Set sales tax revenue at $875,000
• Directed Land Conservation budget to show $81,000 transfer from fund balance

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee will review and discuss 2022 budget presentations from all county departments, including Highway, DHHS, Sheriff, and others. The meeting is open to the public, with time for public comment on agenda items and unrelated matters. The committee will also set the next regular meeting date.

• 2022 budget presentations for 20 departments, including Highway, DHHS, Sheriff's Department, and Zoning
• Public comment periods for agenda items and unrelated topics
• Next regular meeting scheduled for September 23, 2021 at 8:30 a.m.

The Finance Committee held a review and discussion session for the 2022 departmental budgets, with presentations from various departments including Highway, DHHS, Sheriff, and others. No formal decisions were made; the committee discussed potential changes such as reducing the Historical Society donation from $7,000 to $5,000 and allocating $2,000 to the Veteran Memorial, but no votes were taken. The clerk will compile a budget summary for the next meeting on September 7th.

• No formal approvals or denials were made during the meeting.
• Discussed reducing Historical Society donation from $7,000 to $5,000 and giving $2,000 to Veteran Memorial (not voted).
• Noted Highway budget levy increase of $1 million over previous year.
• Noted Treasurer's tax program conversion cost of $25,000 and $30,000 annual maintenance.
• Noted Register of Deeds scanning cost of $2,665 for DD214 documents.
• Noted Coroner's proposed per diem increase from $125 to $150 (not voted).
• Noted potential reduction of leased vehicles from four to three (discussed).
• Next meeting scheduled for September 7, 2021 at 8:00 a.m.

Local Emergency Planning Committee

The Buffalo County Local Emergency Planning Committee is meeting to review and take action on its financial report, 2021 budget proposal, hazard mitigation plan update, and a spill report. The committee will also introduce a new Emergency Management Director and hear member and chair reports. This is a routine business meeting with no public hearings or major policy changes listed.

• Review/action on LEPC financial report
• Review/action on 2021 budget proposal
• Review/action on hazard mitigation plan update
• Review/action on spill report
• Introduction of new Emergency Management Director

The Buffalo County Local Emergency Planning Committee approved the 2022 budget proposal, recommending funding the Emergency Management position at a 70/30 split with Risk Management duties. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes, introduced new Emergency Management Director Lucas Teska, and discussed the Hazard Mitigation Plan update, which is expected to be completed in October.

• Approved the previous meeting's minutes via roll call vote
• Approved the 2022 budget with a recommendation to fund the Emergency Management position at a 70/30 split
• Introduced Lucas Teska as the new Emergency Management Director
• Noted two ash wastewater spills by Dairyland Power have been cleaned up
• Set the next meeting for January 27th at 2:00 p.m.
• Adjourned the meeting at 2:45 p.m.

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is reviewing a resolution to provide up to $1,823.00 from CAPX2020 funds to the Buffalo County Trail Riders. The funds are intended to purchase signs, poles, and hardware for approved ATV/UTV routes.

• Donation of up to $1,823.00 from CAPX2020 funds to Buffalo County Trail Riders
• Funding for signs, poles, and hardware for ATV/UTV route signage

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to rescind Resolution #16-06-05. This action follows notification that a land acquisition near the Tiffany Wildlife area was not approved. The Finance Committee recommends withdrawing the $1,000 CAPX2020 contribution to reallocate it to other projects.

• Rescinding Resolution #16-06-05 regarding North American Wetlands Conservation Grant
• Withdrawal of $1,000 in CAPX2020 funding

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors has authorized a tentative plan for redistricting the County Supervisory Districts. The plan maintains the current level of fourteen districts following a review of recent federal census information.

• Adoption of the 2022 Buffalo County Supervisory Redistricting Boundaries Plan
• Maintenance of the current fourteen (14) supervisory districts

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors authorized the Highway Department to create and fill a new Parts and Inventory Specialist position. The resolution notes that previous consolidation of staff and the expansion of the Shop Foreman's duties necessitate dedicated inventory management to ensure timely repairs and cost-effectiveness. The board also authorized filling any position vacated if a current employee is hired for the new role.

• Creation of a Parts and Inventory Specialist position in the Highway Department
• Year 1 estimated cost of $23,121.00 (wages, benefits, and other costs)
• Year 2 estimated cost of $67,835.90 (wages and benefits)
• Authorization to backfill positions if current staff are promoted into the new role

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to create a new director position for emergency management, risk management, and safety. This follows the resignation of the previous Emergency Management Director/Recycling Manager. The plan involves restructuring recycling manager duties and using state aid and contingency funding to fill the new role.

• Creation of an Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director position
• Estimated first-year expenses of $30,717.00 for wages and benefits
• Estimated second-year expenses of $77,088.21 for wages and benefits

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to rescind Resolution #21-04-01. This action would cancel the previously authorized creation and filling of a Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position within the Highway Department.

• Rescinding Resolution #21-04-01 regarding the Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution to amend Policy 108 of the Employee Handbook regarding travel, meals, and lodging. The amendment increases the maximum daily meal reimbursement rates for employees to align with State of Wisconsin employee rates. The new rates take effect on January 1, 2022, and are intended for use in the 2022 budgeting process. The resolution notes no anticipated financial impact on the 2021 or 2022 budgets.

• Breakfast reimbursement limit increased to $8.00
• Lunch reimbursement limit increased to $10.00
• Dinner reimbursement limit remains at $20.00
• Policy 108 amendment effective January 1, 2022

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to update the Employee Handbook with Policy 605. The policy establishes a new photo identification and key card badge system for courthouse access.

• Addition of Policy 605 (Identification and Key Cards) to the Employee Handbook
• Implementation of a keyless entrance system for designated courthouse areas
• A $10.00 fee for employees replacing a second lost or damaged card within one calendar year
• Requirement for all regular employees and certain courthouse tenants to use ID/key cards

County Board

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing and vote on the tentative 2022 redistricting plan, which proposes reducing supervisory districts from 14 to 12. The board will also consider resolutions supporting an agricultural enterprise area in the Town of Montana, paying dog license funds to the Humane Association, and creating new staff positions. Several other administrative items, including policy updates and appointments, are on the agenda.

• Resolution #21-08-08: 2022 Buffalo County Supervisory Redistricting Boundaries Plan (reduces districts from 14 to 12)
• Resolution #21-08-01: Support Town of Montana to establish an Agricultural Enterprise Area
• Resolution #21-08-02: Pay remaining dog license fund money to Buffalo County Humane Association
• Resolution #21-08-06: Create and fill Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director position
• Resolution #21-08-10: Support Buffalo County Trail Riders with donation from CAPX2020 funding for signs

The Buffalo County Board held a public hearing on redistricting and then voted unanimously to keep the county at 14 supervisory districts for the 2022 plan, rejecting a reduction to 12. The board also approved several resolutions, including supporting an Agricultural Enterprise Area for the Town of Montana, creating an Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director position, and approving a three-year contract with the Buffalo County Humane Association. All votes were carried, with a few individual 'no' votes on specific resolutions.

• Approved 2022 redistricting plan keeping 14 districts (unanimous roll call)
• Approved Resolution #21-08-01 supporting Town of Montana Agricultural Enterprise Area (1 no vote)
• Approved Resolution #21-08-06 creating Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director (unanimous roll call)
• Appointed Lucas Teska as Emergency Management & Risk Management/Safety Director
• Approved Resolution #21-08-02 paying dog license funds to Humane Association under new 3-year contract (unanimous roll call)
• Approved Resolution #21-08-03 Identification & Key Card Policy
• Approved Resolution #21-08-04 updating travel reimbursement policy, effective Jan 1, 2022
• Approved Resolution #21-08-10 donating $1,823 from CAPX2020 to Buffalo County Trail Riders for signs (3 no votes)

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors approved a three-year contract designating the Buffalo County Humane Association as the official county Humane Society. Under the agreement, the association will receive all dog license fund money, excluding a statutory $1,000 retention and any county-incurred licensure expenses. The resolution clarifies that the association remains a non-profit entity not affiliated with county government.

• Approval of a three-year contract with the Buffalo County Humane Association
• Transfer of dog license fund revenue to the association, minus $1,000 and county expenses
• Authorization for the Finance Committee to review and renew the contract

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors voted to support the Town of Montana's request to establish an Agricultural Enterprise Area (AEA). This designation is submitted to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) to protect agricultural land and enhance the local agricultural economy. The resolution aligns with the county's farmland preservation plan but explicitly excludes the Buffalo County Zoning Ordinance from the AEA designation.

• Resolution 2-OX-6 supports the Town of Montana's petition for an Agricultural Enterprise Area (AEA).
• The AEA designation is submitted to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).
• The resolution states the AEA will protect agricultural land and enhance the local agricultural economy.
• The designation is consistent with the county farmland preservation plan but excludes the Buffalo County Zoning Ordinance.
• The item has no anticipated fiscal impact.

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee will review and potentially act on a three-year contract with the Buffalo County Humane Association for animal control services, a resolution to pay remaining dog license fund money to the association, and a resolution to create and fill an Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director position. The committee will also discuss a 2022 supervisory redistricting plan, a resolution to rescind a prior wetlands grant support, and a request from Buffalo County Trail Riders for CAPX2020 funding for signs.

• Contract with Buffalo County Humane Association for animal control services, Sept 1, 2021 to Sept 1, 2024
• Resolution to pay remaining dog license fund money to the Humane Association, except $1,000 required by statute
• Resolution to create and fill an Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director
• Resolution for 2022 Buffalo County Supervisory Redistricting Boundaries Plan and review of proposed maps
• Request of Buffalo County Trail Riders for CAPX2020 funding for signs

The Finance Committee approved a resolution to reduce the number of Buffalo County supervisory districts from 14 to 12 for the 2022 redistricting plan, with all members voting in favor. The committee also approved an amended three-year contract with the Buffalo County Humane Association, a resolution to pay remaining dog license funds to the association, a resolution to create and fill an Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director position, a resolution to rescind a $1,000 pledge for a wetlands grant, and a $1,822.47 funding request from the Buffalo County Trail Riders for ATV/UTV signs (3-2).

• Approved resolution to reduce supervisory districts from 14 to 12 (unanimous roll call)
• Approved amended 3-year contract with Buffalo County Humane Association (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to pay remaining dog license funds to Humane Association (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to create and fill Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to rescind $1,000 pledge for North American Wetlands Conservation Grant (unanimous)
• Approved $1,822.47 request from Buffalo County Trail Riders for CAPX2020 signs (3-2 roll call)
• Approved monthly vendor invoices, vouchers, payroll, and investment report (unanimous)

Human Resources Committee

The Buffalo County Human Resources Sub-Committee will meet to discuss the guidelines and process for reviewing wage scales. The committee will also determine the date and time for its next meeting.

• Review and discussion of Wage Scale Review Process & Guidelines

The Human Resources Sub-Committee reviewed a draft wage scale spreadsheet with salary classifications based on current wages, surrounding counties, and job responsibilities. No formal decisions were made; the committee requested an expense cost analysis for budget impact, to be compiled by Brenda Creighton for the next meeting. The next meeting was scheduled for September 14, 2021, at 8:30 a.m., preceding the full HR Committee meeting at 9:30 a.m.

• Reviewed draft wage scale classifications (no vote)
• Requested expense cost analysis for budget impact (no vote)
• Scheduled next subcommittee meeting for September 14, 2021, at 8:30 a.m.

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Committee is meeting to discuss health insurance renewals and a new identification and key card policy for courthouse access. The body will also consider several position descriptions and the creation of an Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director role.

• Presentation by Cottingham & Butler on health insurance options and renewal
• Resolution to approve Identification & Key Card Policy (Policy 605)
• Resolution to create and fill an Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director
• Resolution to update Employee Handbook Policy 108 regarding Travel, Meals and Lodging
• Resolution to rescind Resolution #21-04-01 regarding a Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee approved a resolution updating the employee handbook's travel, meals, and lodging policy, setting breakfast at $10, lunch at $12, and dinner at $20. It also approved a new identification and key card policy, rescinded a prior resolution for a Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position, and created/filled several positions including an Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director and a Parts and Inventory Specialist. The committee also approved a telecommuting request for the 911 Coordinator with a 6-month review, and sent some position descriptions back to their home committees for further review.

• Approved resolution updating Employee Handbook Policy 108 with meal rates: breakfast $10, lunch $12, dinner $20 (carried)
• Approved resolution for Identification & Key Card Policy (carried)
• Approved key card design using first name and last initial, except full names for law enforcement (carried)
• Approved resolution to rescind Resolution #21-04-01 for Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position (carried)
• Approved Parts and Inventory Specialist position description (carried)
• Approved resolution to create and fill Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director position (carried)
• Approved resolution to fill Parts and Inventory Specialist position (carried)
• Approved 911 Coordinator telecommute request with 6-month review and requirement to work with GIS staff (carried)

Recycling Committee

The Buffalo County Recycling Committee will meet to review and potentially approve an updated recycling agreement. The agreement involves the City of Buffalo City, Town of Belvidere, Village of Cochrane, and Town of Milton.

• Approval of July 8, 2021 meeting minutes
• Update of County Recycling Agreement with BBC &M

The Recycling Committee approved the general language of a new recycling agreement between Buffalo County and the cities/towns of Buffalo City, Belvidere, Cochrane, and Milton, replacing the old agreement from the mid-1990s. The director was instructed to draft a resolution for a specific contract. The next meeting was set for September 15, 2021, with the 2022 budget to be presented with options of no per-capita increase or a $1 increase.

• Approved general language of new recycling agreement with BBC&M (motion carried)
• Instructed Recycling Director to draft resolution for BBC&M contract
• Set next meeting for September 15, 2021, at 6:30 p.m.
• Directed director to bring 2022 recycling budget with no per-capita increase or $1 increase option

Highway Committee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee will review the draft 2022 budget and a proposal to restructure the recycling program. The agenda includes status updates on staffing, equipment disposal, and shop improvements in Urne and Waumandee. The committee will also discuss the 2021 construction schedule, including work on CTH K, CTH F, and CTH J, as well as the Palkowski Road Creek Crossing project.

• Review of Draft 2022 Budget
• Recycling Program Restructure Proposal
• Status of Shop Improvements in Urne & Waumandee
• 2021 Construction Schedule updates for CTH K, CTH F, and CTH J
• Palkowski Road Creek Crossing bridge installation

The Buffalo County Highway Committee approved a motion to return office staff to four 10-hour workdays starting the next pay period, with a review in September. They also approved monthly vouchers totaling $511,752.12 and approved sending foremen, superintendents, and Ms. Semling to the WCHA-LDG Road School. The committee discussed staffing, equipment, and budget items but took no final action on the recycling program restructure or the 2022 draft budget.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)
• Approved monthly vouchers #27753-#27830 totaling $511,752.12 (unanimous)
• Approved return to four 10-hour days for office staff, effective next pay period, review in September (motion by Ruff, second Danzinger)
• Approved sending Foremen, Superintendents, and Ms. Semling to WCHA-LDG Road School Sept 14-16 (motion by Ruff, second Danzinger)

Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee

The Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee will review and discuss the LCRMD revised 2020 annual report, financials, and 2022 preliminary proposed budgets for the Division of Extension, Land Conservation, and Non-Metallic Mining. They will also consider a resolution to support the Town of Montana establishing an Agricultural Enterprise Area and receive updates on the Buffalo White Sands project and Lower Trempealeau Watershed Grant.

• Review/Discussion/Action: Division of Extension 2022 Budget Proposal
• Review/Discussion/Action: 2022 Preliminary Proposed Budget – Land Conservation
• Review/Discussion/Action: 2022 Preliminary Proposed Budget – Non-Metallic Mining
• Review/Discussion/Action: Resolution to Support Town of Montana to Establish an Agricultural Enterprise Area
• Review/Discussion: LCRMD Revised 2020 Annual Report and Financials

The Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee approved the 2022 Division of Extension budget, the 2022 Land Conservation budget, and the 2022 Non-Metallic Mining budget. The committee also approved a resolution supporting the Town of Montana's Agricultural Enterprise Area, with a clarification excluding the Buffalo County Zoning Ordinance. No public comments were made, and the meeting was adjourned after routine reports and updates.

• Approved July 12, 2021 committee meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved 2022 Division of Extension budget as presented (motion carried)
• Approved 2022 Land Conservation budget as presented (motion carried)
• Approved 2022 Non-Metallic Mining budget (motion carried)
• Approved resolution to support Town of Montana Agricultural Enterprise Area, with clarification excluding Buffalo County Zoning Ordinance (motion carried)

Committee of the Board

The Committee of the Board is reviewing the use of American Recovery Fund allocations, including proposed one-time premium pay for essential workers. The body is also discussing the creation of an Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director position and the restructure of the Land Information Department.

• Proposed COVID-19 premium pay for low-risk workers of $250.00
• Resolution to create and fill an Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director position
• Review of American Recovery Fund Allocations
• Administrative Coordinator recruitment plan and approval to fill vacant position
• Review of CAPX2020 funding

The Committee of the Board supported the Agricultural Enterprise Area (AEA) petition for the Town of Montana, which will be sent to the full County Board for approval. They also formed an Allocation Subcommittee for ARPA funds, recommended hazard pay for employees, approved a new Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director position, and approved the Administrative Coordinator position description and recruitment plan. Several other items were discussed, including redistricting, CAPX2020 funding, and rules of government updates.

• Supported AEA petition for Town of Montana, sent to County Board (roll call, Bork abstaining)
• Formed Allocation Subcommittee to prioritize ARPA fund requests
• Recommended hazard pay for employees, forwarded to Allocation Subcommittee
• Approved resolution to create and fill Emergency Management and Risk Management/Safety Director position
• Approved updated Administrative Coordinator position description
• Approved filling Administrative Coordinator vacancy and recruitment timeline
• Set Executive Committee as voting members of interview committee, Committee of the Board as participants
• Approved moving Garden Valley funds to PL566 repairs and unallocating other unspent designated funds

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee will review and discuss the job description for the Deputy Clerk of Court position and the current vacancy. The meeting also includes a report from the Chairperson.

• Review/Discussion/Action regarding Deputy Clerk of Court position description
• Review/Discussion/Action regarding vacant Deputy Clerk of Court position
• Chairperson Report

The Executive Committee approved filling the vacant Deputy Clerk of Court position, with discussion about temporary help and sharing staff with the Judge's Office. The committee also approved the minutes from the previous meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved filling the vacant Deputy Clerk of Court position (2-0)
• Approved minutes from the previous meeting (2-0)

Buffalo/Pepin Community Justice Collaborating Council

The Buffalo/Pepin Criminal Justice Collaborating Council will meet via Zoom to review routine reports on finances, jail populations, community work service, reentry programs, and a veterans special project. They will also discuss the 2022 Treatment Alternatives and Diversion (TAD) grant application and system mapping updates. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Review of June 2021 financial statement and CJCC fund balance of $34,440.35
• Discussion of TAD 2022 funding and application update, including grant writing team
• Jail population updates: Buffalo County 15 inmates, Pepin County 11 inmates as of mid-June
• Moving Forward Reentry Program report: two classes offered via teleconference with Dunn County Jail
• Veterans Special Project update: surveys closed, training development underway

The Criminal Justice Collaborating Council approved the June 16, 2021 minutes as presented. The CJS Program will immediately begin monitoring all Deferred Prosecution Agreements, eliminating the bail bond condition. The council also discussed the 2022-2026 TAD Grant Application, which will seek funding for pre-charge and post-charge diversion programs, and noted that TAD funds cannot be used for the Bail Bond Program.

• Approved the June 16, 2021 meeting minutes as presented.
• Effective immediately, the CJS Program will monitor all Deferred Prosecution Agreements, eliminating the bail bond condition.
• CJS will apply for two tracks (pre-charge and post-charge) in the 2022-2026 TAD Grant Application.
• Noted that TAD funding cannot be used for the Bail Bond Program; only for Diversion/Treatment Programs.
• Received the final system mapping from Ms. Prom, to be submitted with the 2022-2026 TAD Application.
• Acknowledged the resignation of TAD Manager Ms. Lushaj; Mike Derr will take over her duties.
• Set the next meeting for Wednesday, August 18, 2021, via Zoom.

Miscellaneous Agendas

This is a routine county unit meeting for town officials, including a potluck picnic. The agenda includes standard items like minutes, financial report, and reports from the highway commissioner, WTA director, and legislators, plus selection of an LRIP committee.

• Facilitate selection of LRIP (Local Road Improvement Program) committee
• Highway Commissioner Bob Platteter to speak
• Legislator's report on issues and budget
• Potluck picnic with meat provided by Rural Mutual Insurance

Law Enforcement & Emergency Management Committee

The Buffalo County Law Enforcement and Emergency Management Committee will review and potentially act on law enforcement vouchers, current expenditures, and a telecommuting request. They will also discuss updates to law enforcement personnel, the Lexipol Policy award, and ATV/UTV concerns. The meeting includes public comment periods and may go into closed session.

• Review/action on law enforcement vouchers totaling $44,266.30
• Discussion on telecommuting request
• Update on law enforcement personnel
• Discussion on ATV/UTV concerns
• Review of Sheriff, Chief Deputy, and Jail Administrator monthly reports

The Law Enforcement and Emergency Management Committee approved the May meeting minutes as corrected, accepted law enforcement vouchers and expenditure reports, and forwarded a telecommuting request from Tammy Huber to the Human Resources Committee, recommending a one-year trial. The committee also accepted monthly reports from the Sheriff, Chief Deputy, and Jail Administrator, and discussed various updates including an award, ATV/UTV concerns, and the next meeting date.

• Approved May meeting minutes as corrected (item #8 changed to '40' hours per week).
• Accepted law enforcement vouchers.
• Accepted current law enforcement expenditure reports.
• Moved Tammy Huber's telecommuting request to the Human Resources Committee with a recommendation for a one-year trial.
• Accepted monthly reports from Sheriff, Chief Deputy, and Jail Administrator.
• Accepted the Emergency Management written report.
• Set next meeting for September 14, 2021 at 11:00am.
• Adjourned at 9:54am.

Highway Safety Commission

The Buffalo County Highway Safety Commission is meeting to discuss the April 5 log truck crash in Fountain City, consider filling a vacant medical representative position, and receive updates from local and state agencies. The agenda also includes recognition of good Samaritans from the crash and approval of prior minutes.

• Recognition of good Samaritans in April 5 Fountain City log truck accident
• Discussion of R/D/A-Medical Representative position (currently vacant)
• Updates from Sheriff, Emergency Management, Highway Department, WisDOT, and State Patrol
• Approval of April 2021 meeting minutes

The Buffalo County Highway Safety Commission voted to recommend Beth Sass to the county board to fill the vacant medical representative position, following Norita Willadsen's resignation. The commission also approved the April minutes and discussed updates on ATV/UTV signage, a fatal accident investigation, and grant changes.

• Approved the April meeting minutes.
• Recommended Beth Sass to the county board for the medical representative position.
• Discussed ATV/UTV signage requirements, noting signs will be posted only after official notice in the paper.
• Noted the denial of mobile squad radio grant funding for law enforcement, requiring grant modification for emergency management only.
• Heard updates on a fatal three-vehicle accident near Fountain City, still under investigation.
• Acknowledged good Samaritans for their actions during an April 5 accident in Fountain City.

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee will review and potentially act on resolutions to rescind the Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position and create a Parts & Inventory Specialist for the Highway Department. They will also discuss bond projects, the Flyway Trail maintenance agreement, and set 2022 budget meeting dates. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes, invoices, and payroll.

• Resolution to rescind Resolution #21-04-01 for Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position
• Resolution to create and fill a Parts & Inventory Specialist (estimated $23,121 for 2021, $67,835.90 for 2022)
• Discussion on Flyway Trail Maintenance Agreement
• Approval of non-lapsing accounts
• Update on recycling program

The Finance Committee approved a resolution to rescind Resolution #21-04-01, which had created and filled a Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position, and approved a new resolution to create and fill a Parts & Inventory Specialist in the Highway Department. The committee also approved the 2021 non-lapsing accounts and the monthly vendor vouchers. They set August 27th for 2022 budget meetings with departments and discussed, but did not decide on, the Flyway Trail maintenance agreement and a potential recycling subcontract.

• Approved resolution to rescind Resolution #21-04-01 (Parts/Safety Training Coordinator position)
• Approved resolution to create and fill a Parts & Inventory Specialist in the Highway Department
• Approved the 2021 non-lapsing accounts
• Approved the monthly vendor vouchers as submitted
• Set August 27, 2021 for 2022 budget meetings with departments

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will meet to discuss the selection process for the Great River State Trail – Winona Connector PH-II. The body will also review the 2022 budget and plans for Farm Technology Days.

• Great River State Trail – Winona Connector PH-II Request for Proposal and selection process
• Budget 2022
• Farm Technology Days
• Brochure review

The committee approved the 2022 line-item budget as presented, covering salaries, benefits, and operational costs. It also approved the minutes from May 5, 2021. Updates were given on the Great River State Trail connector, including selection of SEH for survey work and a loss of $90k in state TAP funding. No public comments were made.

• Approved the minutes of May 5, 2021
• Approved the 2022 budget as presented
• Selected SEH for survey and engineering on the trail connector
• Discussed, but took no action on, the Flyway loan request and brochure vendor search

Highway Committee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee will consider staffing changes, including rescinding a prior resolution and creating a Parts/Inventory Specialist position, and will review and award bids for a new track skidsteer and equipment trailer. The committee will also discuss road construction schedules, state mowing operations, and may enter closed session for an employee evaluation.

• Resolution to rescind Resolution #21-04-01 (Parts/Safety Training Coordinator) and add Parts/Inventory Specialist position
• Review and award bid for new Track Skidsteer
• Review quotes and award purchase of Equipment Trailer
• LFA - $4,999 for Traffic Control operation
• Shop Improvements in Urne & Waumandee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee approved the purchase of a John Deere 325G Skid Steer for $17,789.93 and a Felling 7,000# trailer for $5,470.00, along with monthly vouchers totaling $279,570.03. They also approved moving a job description for Parts/Inventory Specialists to HR, rescinded a resolution for a Parts/Safety Training Coordinator position, and approved a new resolution to fill the Parts/Inventory Specialists position. Additionally, they approved investigating the potential sale of county property, including locating utility lines and determining a price.

• Approved the minutes of the previous meeting as sent.
• Approved the low bid from Tractor Central for a John Deere 325G Skid Steer for $17,789.93.
• Approved the lowest quote from Roland Machinery for a Felling 7,000# trailer for $5,470.00.
• Approved monthly vouchers #27727 through #27751 totaling $279,570.03.
• Approved moving the Parts/Inventory Specialists job description to HR for approval.
• Rescinded Resolution #21-04-01 to fill the Parts/Safety Training Coordinator position.
• Approved a new resolution to fill the Parts/Inventory Specialists position.
• Approved investigating the sale of county property, including locating utility lines and determining a price.

Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee

The Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee will review and act on several items, including drainage commission recommendations, annual reports, and a proposed staffing transition plan. The committee may enter closed session to discuss the staffing transition. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes approval and educator reports.

• Review/Discussion/Action: Cochrane Drainage Commission Member Recommendations
• Review/Discussion/Action: 2020 Annual Report (Extension and LCRMD)
• Review/Discussion/Action: PL-566 and CCC Watershed Structures Proposed Maintenance
• Review/Discussion/Action: AEA Petition – Town of Montana
• Closed session possible for staffing transition plan

The committee voted to recommend extending the terms of Carson Lentz and Tom Bollinginer on the Cochrane Drainage Commission. It also approved a motion to support the Town of Montana's petition to become an Agricultural Enterprise Area, pending full County Board approval. The committee requested a cost estimate for watershed structure repairs before deciding on funding. In closed session, it approved refilling the Land Conservationist position and appointing Nels Anderson as interim, following Kristin Foehringer's resignation.

• Approved minutes of the May 11, 2021 meeting.
• Recommended extending terms of Carson Lentz and Tom Bollinginer on the Cochrane Drainage Commission.
• Accepted the 2020 Extension Annual Report and forwarded it to the County Board.
• Accepted the LCRMD 2020 Annual Report and forwarded it to the County Board.
• Requested a cost estimate for PL-566 and CCC watershed structure repairs at the August meeting.
• Supported the Town of Montana's AEA petition, pending County Board approval.
• Approved refilling the Land Conservationist position and appointing Nels Anderson as interim.
• Moved to closed session and back to open session with unanimous roll call votes.

Recycling Committee

The Buffalo County Recycling Committee will review and potentially approve a recycling agreement with several local municipalities, consider restructuring the Recycling Department, and review financial reports and statistics. The meeting is open to the public, with options to attend in person or remotely.

• Approval of recycling agreement with Village of Cochrane, City of Buffalo City, Town of Belvidere, and Town of Milton (BBC&M)
• Discussion of Recycling Department oversight restructuring
• Review of Recycling Program Financial Report
• Update on Recycling Statistics
• Approval of February 18, 2021 meeting minutes

The Recycling Committee reviewed a proposed updated county recycling agreement with BBC & M, replacing agreements in place since the early 1990s. The committee made several recommendations to modify verbiage and directed Recycling Director Bruce Fuerbringer to bring back a revised draft at the next meeting. No formal approval was granted for the agreement at this meeting. The committee also received informational updates on the budget, recycling statistics, and potential restructuring of the Recycling Director's position.

• Accepted minutes of the July 8, 2021 meeting (passed without opposition)
• Reviewed proposed county recycling agreement with BBC & M; directed revisions and return at next meeting
• Acknowledged YTD budget report; no approval required
• Noted YTD recycling tonnages slightly higher than same period last year
• Set next meeting for August 12, 2021 at 6:30 p.m.
• Adjourned at 8:00 p.m.

Economic Development Committee

The Flyway Trail Survey and Engineering Subcommittee will meet to discuss the project's scope of work and bids. The committee may enter a closed session to deliberate or negotiate these items.

• Review and negotiation of Flyway Trail engineering scope of work and bids

The Flyway Trail Survey and Engineering Subcommittee reviewed the scope of work for the Great River State Trail – Winona Connector PH-II with the DOT and SEH. All parties agreed to push project completion to 2014, citing the number of parties involved. The next step is a financial proposal from SEH, which the DOT will present to the County in about 3 weeks for a decision.

• Agreed to push project completion to 2014
• Reviewed scope of work for Great River State Trail – Winona Connector PH-II
• Discussed next phase of selection process; financial proposal to be sent by SEH to DOT

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Committee will meet to discuss contract negotiation strategies and bargaining for the Wisconsin Professional Police Association (WPPA)/LEER. The body will also consider updates to identification, scheduling, and reimbursement policies.

• WPPA/LEER Union negotiations and legal strategy
• Resolution to approve Identification & Key Card Policy
• Flexible schedule for County Treasurer’s Office
• Hazardous pay consideration for essential workers using American Recovery Funding
• Review of Policy 108 (Travel, Meals and Lodging) and Policy 201 (Holidays)

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee approved a one-year alternate work schedule for the County Treasurer's Office, making permanent a schedule tested over the past year. The committee tabled a resolution to approve an identification and key card policy until the next meeting. It also recommended placing hazard pay consideration for essential workers on the Committee of the Board agenda and discussed several other items without action.

• Approved alternate work schedule for Treasurer's Office for one year (unanimous)
• Tabled identification and key card policy resolution to next meeting (unanimous)
• Recommended hazard pay consideration for essential workers be placed on Committee of the Board agenda
• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Entered closed session for WPPA/LEER contract negotiation strategy (unanimous)
• Entered closed session for bargaining union negotiations (unanimous)

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Sub-Committee is meeting to finish reviewing position descriptions and an evaluation tool. The committee will also discuss and determine next steps for these items.

• Review of position descriptions and evaluation tool

The Human Resources Sub-Committee approved the minutes of the previous meeting, with a notation that the next meeting date was changed to coincide with the HR Committee meeting. Members divided into workgroups to finish reviewing position descriptions and evaluation tools. Sonya Hansen will compile results into a spreadsheet and prepare a draft of proposed classification changes, including potential costs, for review at the next meeting. The next meeting date will be set after the HR Committee schedules its August meeting.

• Approved the minutes of the previous meeting, with the next meeting date changed to coincide with the HR Committee meeting.
• Divided into workgroups to complete the position description review process.
• Directed Sonya Hansen to compile results and prepare a draft of proposed classification changes with potential costs for the next meeting.
• Scheduled the next meeting date after the HR Committee determines its August meeting date.

County Board

The Buffalo County Board will consider several resolutions, including amending overtime and salary policies, authorizing propane purchase, and approving American Rescue Act funding for a broadband project in the Town of Naples. They will also review annual reports from various departments and discuss American Rescue Act funding allocations.

• Resolution #21-06-01 to amend Policy 103 on overtime compensatory time
• Resolution #21-06-02 to amend salary classification and compensation for non-represented employees
• Resolution #21-06-03 to authorize purchase of liquid propane for 2021-2022 heating season
• Resolution #21-06-04 to approve American Rescue Act funding for broadband project in Town of Naples
• Review of 2020 annual reports from Circuit Court, Community Justice Services, Register of Deeds, and Health and Human Services

The Buffalo County Board approved Resolution #21-06-04, authorizing $100,000 in American Rescue Act funding for a broadband project in the Town of Naples, contingent on project completion. The board also approved resolutions amending overtime/comp time policy, adding two positions to the salary classification system, and purchasing liquid propane for the 2021-2022 heating season. All other agenda items were either discussed or approved as noted in the minutes.

• Approved Resolution #21-06-04: $100,000 for broadband project in Town of Naples (roll call, all in favor).
• Approved previous meeting minutes.
• Approved Resolution #21-06-01: Amended Policy 103 on overtime compensatory time.
• Approved Resolution #21-06-02: Amended salary classification to add two positions.
• Approved Resolution #21-06-03: Authorized purchase of liquid propane at $1.28/gallon for 45,000 gallons (roll call, all in favor).
• Discussed American Rescue Act funding, with estimated revenue loss of $150,140.51 to be further reviewed.
• Discussed annual reports from Circuit Court, Community Justice Services, Register of Deeds, and Health and Human Services.
• Adjourned at 8:37 p.m.

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors will consider a resolution amending Employee Handbook Policy 103 on overtime and compensatory time. The key change would require employees to use earned compensatory time before any other paid leave, aiming to reduce the county's unbudgeted liability. The resolution is recommended by the Human Resources Committee and would take effect August 1, 2021.

• Amends Policy 103 to require use of compensatory time before other paid leave
• Compensatory time cap remains at 60 hours for most employees, 40 for Highway Department
• Highway Department comp time must be paid out by payroll following June 30
• Communications/Corrections employees cannot accumulate comp time; overtime paid at 1.5x
• On-call pay for Health and Human Services employees set through budget process

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is voting on a resolution to allocate $100,000 of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to support a broadband expansion project in the Town of Naples. The project must meet the criteria in Resolution #17-12-06. This is the main substantive item on the agenda.

• Approve $100,000 ARPA funding for Town of Naples broadband project
• Project must meet requirements of Resolution #17-12-06
• County has received $1,265,559.40 of approximately $2.5 million ARPA award
• Prior commitments to Town of Cross and Town of Mondovi depleted 2021 broadband funds

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to amend the 2021 salary classification and compensation system for non-represented employees. The changes add the combined Emergency Management Director and Safety/Risk Manager position and a Public Health Specialist position to the wage scale, effective upon filling the positions. The resolution also includes a budget transfer from the General Fund to cover the Safety/Risk Manager part-time costs.

• Adds Emergency Management Director and Safety/Risk Manager to Directors/Managers wage classification
• Adds Public Health Specialist to Case Manager II wage classification
• Budget transfer from General Fund to Emergency Management Department for Safety/Risk Manager part-time position
• Anticipated financial impact: $37,991.13 total for Safety/Risk Manager (wages $25,400.52, benefits $12,590.61)

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to accept a bid from Countryside Cooperative of Durand, Wisconsin for 45,000 gallons of liquid propane at $1.28 per gallon, totaling $57,600, for the 2021-2022 heating season. The purchase covers the courthouse, recycling facilities, and highway shops, and funds are already included in the budget. The Finance Committee recommends approval.

• Resolution to authorize purchase of 45,000 gallons of liquid propane for $57,600 at $1.28 per gallon
• Bid from Countryside Cooperative of Durand, Wisconsin recommended by Finance Committee
• Propane to supply courthouse, recycling facilities, and highway shops
• Funds included in 2021-2022 budget; fiscal impact listed as $57,600

Executive Committee

The Buffalo County Executive Committee will review reports from several county offices and discuss the restructure of the Land Information Office. The committee is also scheduled to act on the position description and recruitment plan for the Administrative Coordinator.

• Land Information Office restructure
• Administrative Coordinator position description and recruitment plan
• Second Amendment Sanctuary County Resolution
• Review of 2020 County Clerk Annual Report
• Review of County Treasurer/Real Property Lister's Office report

The Buffalo County Executive Committee met on June 17, 2021, and took several actions. The most notable decision was tabling a resolution to make the county a Second Amendment sanctuary, with a motion to table carried. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes and discussed various departmental reports, including the Clerk of Court's debt collection program and the County Clerk's annual report. No other formal votes were taken on substantive matters.

• Approved minutes from previous meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled Second Amendment sanctuary county resolution (motion carried)

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee will discuss and potentially act on the 2022 budget strategy, including a sub-committee review of wages and scales, and consider resolutions to amend the salary classification system and authorize liquid propane purchases. The agenda also includes updates on broadband funding, DHHS general relief policy, and highway and courthouse finances.

• Town of Mondovi Broadband Award Selection
• 2022 Budget Strategy and Discussion with Sub-Committee of Human Resources on Wages and Scales
• DHHS General Relief Policy
• Resolution to Amend Salary Classification and Compensation System for Non-Represented Employees
• Resolution to Authorize Purchase of Liquid Propane for 2021-2022 Heating Season

The Finance Committee approved a $100,000 award towards the Town of Mondovi broadband project, which had prior approval from the Broadband Subcommittee and Economic Development Committee. The committee also approved spending $61,000 from CAPX funds for courthouse building updates, and approved a bid from Lakeside Countryside Coop for liquid propane at $1.28 per gallon for 45,000 gallons. The 2020 budget was closed with only $47,000 needed to balance, far less than the planned $900,000.

• Approved $100,000 award for Town of Mondovi broadband project
• Approved $61,000 from CAPX funds for courthouse building updates
• Approved liquid propane bid from Lakeside Countryside Coop at $1.28/gallon for 45,000 gallons
• Approved monthly vendor invoices, vouchers, employee payroll, and funds investment report
• Approved minutes of the previous meeting
• Instructed HR Committee to continue work on wage and scales for 2022 budget
• Discussed but did not vote on Emergency Management & Risk Management Safety Director position
• Discussed but did not vote on resolution to amend salary classification for non-represented employees

Buffalo/Pepin Community Justice Collaborating Council

The Buffalo/Pepin Criminal Justice Collaborating Council will meet via Zoom to review routine reports on finances, community work service, jail populations, court programs, and the Moving Forward reentry program. They will also discuss the 2022 Treatment Alternatives and Diversion (TAD) funding application and system mapping updates. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Review of financial update and community work service report
• Jail status reports for Buffalo and Pepin counties
• Moving Forward Reentry Program report and Veterans Special Project update
• TAD 2022 funding and application update
• System mapping flow chart update

The Criminal Justice Collaborating Council (CJCC) for Buffalo and Pepin Counties met on June 16, 2021, and approved the minutes from the May 18, 2021 meeting, the financial report showing a balance of $34,440.35, and the Community Work Service (CWS) report. The council also discussed updates on jail populations, the Moving Forward reentry program, and the Veterans and Justice Systems project. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 12:40 p.m.

• Approved the minutes of the May 18, 2021 meeting as presented.
• Approved the CJCC financial report with a balance of $34,440.35.
• Approved the Community Work Service (CWS) report.
• Discussed the TAD 2022 funding application, with a grant writing team formed and a webinar scheduled for June 23, 2021.
• Noted the resignation of Jon Weaver from the Veterans and Justice Systems project and welcomed Cory Kavanaugh as a new team member.
• Discussed the lack of referrals to the CJS Program for OWI cases and agreed to coordinate with the District Attorney.
• Noted the absence of a probation agent in Buffalo County, with new agents starting in July 2021.
• Scheduled the next meeting for July 20, 2021, via Zoom.

Board of Adjustments

The Buffalo County Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit request by Thomas and Sue Roskos for a farm-based business in the Agriculture/Natural Resource-40 zoning district, on property in Sections 2 & 36, Town of Glencoe. The board will take testimony, public comments, and may conduct a site investigation before acting on the application. They will also review and act on the minutes from the February 23, 2021 hearing.

• CUP #2021-2: Thomas and Sue Roskos request for a Conditional Use Permit for a 'Farm Based Business' in the Agriculture/Natural Resource-40 Zoning District, per Chapter 7, Section A, 1, b, 13 of the Buffalo County Zoning Ordinance
• Property located in Sections 2 & 36, Town of Glencoe
• Public hearing with application presentation, public comments, and board questions
• Possible site investigation at board discretion
• Review and action on February 23, 2021 meeting minutes

The Buffalo County Zoning Board of Adjustments approved Conditional Use Permit #2021-2 for Thomas and Sue Roskos to operate a farm-based business, allowing them to host vendor events like a farmers' market on their property. The approval is subject to six conditions, including liability insurance, portable toilets, parking restrictions, and sign limits. The board also approved the minutes from the February 23, 2021 meeting with one spelling change.

• Approved CUP #2021-2 for a farm-based business, subject to zoning department conditions
• Required liability insurance and evidence of coverage for the applicant
• Mandated portable toilets, minimum one per 50 guests
• Prohibited guest parking on public roads
• Limited advertising signs to one on-premise sign, max 24 square feet
• Required Health Department licensing for any commercial kitchen operation
• Approved minutes from February 23, 2021, with one spelling change

Highway Committee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee will meet to review and act on several items, including staffing changes, equipment purchases, building and grounds projects, and road and bridge updates. The committee may enter closed session to discuss personnel matters. The agenda includes both routine approvals and specific action items.

• Modify Safety/Parts Coordinator position to Parts/Inventory Specialist
• Consider bids for one new crew cab pickup and quotes for a zero-turn lawnmower
• Discuss shop improvements in Urne and Waumandee, neighboring property lease/purchase, possible property sale to Dave & Sandra Ebert, and tire cleanup
• Review construction schedule, state and town projects, ATV/UTV route status, Palkowski Road crossing, and asphaltic pavement bid results
• Discuss wild parsnip with Krisin Foehringer LCD

The Buffalo County Highway Committee approved monthly vouchers totaling $594,769.55, accepted a bid for a new crew cab pickup, and approved a quote for a zero-turn lawnmower. They also set an August 1st deadline for ATV/UTV route decisions and approved asphaltic pavement bids. Several items were discussed but not finalized, including a property purchase and tire cleanup options.

• Approved monthly vouchers #27626-#27726 totaling $594,769.55 (unanimous)
• Approved $0.71/hr. increase for promotion to foreman or re-opening applications (unanimous)
• Accepted bid from Northtown Ford for 2021 Ford F-150 XL at $31,305.00 (unanimous)
• Accepted quote from Lindstrom Equipment for Ferris Zero-Turn mower (unanimous)
• Set August 1, 2021 deadline for ATV/UTV route decisions (unanimous)
• Approved asphaltic pavement bids from Mathy Const. (unanimous)

Economic Development Committee

The Flyway Trail Survey and Engineering Sub Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on engineering bids. The committee may enter a closed session for deliberations and negotiations regarding these bids.

• Review, discussion, and action on Flyway Trail engineering bids

The Flyway Trail Survey and Engineering Subcommittee interviewed two firms for engineering services and selected SEH as the best candidate. The selection followed the qualification-based process required for Transportation Alternatives Program grant funds. The subcommittee will file paperwork with WIDOT before negotiating scope and costs. The next meeting is tentatively set for July 8, 2021.

• Selected SEH as the best candidate for Flyway Trail engineering services
• Directed staff to file paperwork with WIDOT before scope and cost negotiations
• Adjourned the meeting at 2:50 p.m.

Human Resources Committee

The committee is reviewing various job descriptions and wage scales for county positions. Discussion includes telecommuting requests for the Land Conservation Department and UW-Extension Office, as well as union contract negotiations.

• WPPA/LEER union contract negotiation strategy
• County Conservationist position description
• Conservation Technician position description
• Resource Management Specialist position description
• Public Health Specialist wage scale

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee approved several position descriptions, wage scales, and policy amendments, including changes to overtime/comp time policy effective August 1st. They also approved two telecommuting requests and continued with Cottingham and Butler as employee benefit agent. The committee entered closed sessions for union contract negotiations and reviewed initial proposals with the WPPA/LEER union.

• Approved amended County Conservationist position description with Master's degree recommended but not required
• Approved Conservation Technician position description
• Approved Resource Management Specialist position description
• Approved telecommuting request for Land Conservation Department manager through Dec 31, 2021
• Approved telecommuting request for UW-Extension support staff until UW resumes full office work
• Approved Public Health Specialist position description and wage scale (Case Manager II classification)
• Approved Emergency Management Director/Risk Manager position description and wage scale
• Approved resolution to amend Policy 103 on overtime and compensatory time, effective Aug 1

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Sub-Committee will meet to review and discuss the wage scale review process and guidelines. The committee may also take action regarding the date and time of its next meeting.

• Review/Discussion: Wage Scale Review Process & Guidelines
• Review/Discussion/Action: Next Meeting Date and Time

The committee approved the minutes of the previous meeting. They reviewed costs to bring 17 positions within county averages, with estimates ranging from $21,300 to $41,100 depending on the percentage. They began reviewing a position description rating system but did not finish, planning to continue at the next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of the previous meeting (motion by Creighton, second by Burmeister)
• Set next meeting for July 12, 2021, at 8:00 a.m.
• Adjourned at 9:30 a.m. (motion by Creighton, second by Burmeister)

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Committee will meet to discuss and take action on the starting wage scales for two positions. These roles include a GIS Technician candidate and a Highway Foreman.

• Starting wage scale for GIS Technician candidate
• Starting wage scale for Highway Foreman

The committee approved offering a starting wage at step 8 to the leading GIS Technician candidate, despite policy allowing up to step 3. A motion to send the Highway Foreman wage placement decision back to the Highway Committee for further review was also carried.

• Approved offering step 8 wage to GIS Technician candidate (carried)
• Sent Highway Foreman wage placement back to Highway Committee for review (carried)

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to approve the Highway Department's purchase of two electronic message boards from Sherwin Industries, Inc. for up to $38,000, using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The boards are intended to direct traffic and improve safety at public health vaccination clinics. The county expects to receive a total of $2,527,282 in ARPA funds over two years.

• Purchase of two Wanco WTMMB Message Boards, warranty, and accessories from Sherwin Industries, Inc.
• Amount not to exceed $38,000.00
• Funding source: American Recovery Plan Funds (ARPA)
• Total ARPA award to county: $2,527,282 ($1,263,641 in May 2021 and $1,263,641 in May 2022)

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to add Policy 512, the Remote Work (Telecommuting) Policy, to the county employee handbook. The policy outlines eligibility, procedures, expectations, and security guidelines for employees working from home. The resolution is recommended by the Human Resources Committee and would take effect June 1, 2021. No additional costs are anticipated.

• Resolution to add Policy 512 Remote Work (Telecommuting) Policy to Buffalo County Employee Handbook
• Policy effective June 1, 2021
• Formal telecommuting requires approval from Home Committee and Human Resources Committee
• Informal telecommuting requires supervisor approval at least 48 hours in advance
• Employees must provide internet access at their own expense

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to create a full-time public health nurse position effective June 1, 2021. The position would support Children's Long-Term Support (CLTS-W) services, reproductive health services, and disease investigation. The county currently has one public health nurse, and the new role aims to prevent service interruptions and meet increased demand.

• Creates one full-time Public Health Nurse position effective June 1, 2021
• Position to provide CLTS-W services, reproductive health services, and disease control
• Estimated 2021 salary, benefits, and equipment: $59,361.07
• Estimated 2021 revenues: $59,874.30; tax levy: $0
• CLTS-W caseload grew from 14 children in 2017 to 37 currently

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to formally establish the Economic Development Committee, retroactive to January 27, 2016, as a subcommittee of the Finance Committee. The resolution defines the committee's duties and responsibilities, including overseeing the Office of Economic Development, and has no anticipated financial impact.

• Resolution QI-GS-92a establishes Economic Development Committee retroactively to Jan. 27, 2016
• Committee to be a subcommittee of Finance Committee
• Duties include creating a budget, bylaws, and economic development objectives
• Committee to oversee economic development functions including broadband expansion and Community Development Block Grant
• Anticipated financial impact: $0.00

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to add fees for reviewing certified survey maps (CSMs) to the county's official fee schedule. The fees range from $220 for a one-lot CSM to $340 for a four-lot CSM. The resolution was reviewed by the Land Use and Finance Committees.

• Establishes CSM review fees: $220 (1 lot), $260 (2 lots), $300 (3 lots), $340 (4 lots)
• Adds fees to the Buffalo County Zoning Department's official fee schedule
• Resolution reviewed by Land Use Committee at meetings from July to December 2020

County Board

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors will consider and potentially act on several items, including adopting a new Land Division Ordinance, establishing a Certified Survey Map review fee, creating an Economic Development Committee, adding a full-time Public Health Nurse, opposing changes to a wildlife damage program, adding a remote work policy, and purchasing electronic message boards with American Rescue Plan funds. The board will also review annual reports from the Treasurer, Zoning, and Law Enforcement departments. The agenda includes both action items and discussion items.

• Ordinance #21-05-01: Adopt the Buffalo County Land Division Ordinance
• Resolution #21-05-01: Establish Certified Survey Map (CSM) Review and Application Fee
• Resolution #21-05-03: Add a full-time Public Health Nurse in 2021
• Resolution #21-05-06: Purchase electronic message boards using American Recovery Plan funds
• Resolution #21-05-04: Oppose changes to Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims Program

The Buffalo County Board approved Ordinance #21-05-01 adopting the Land Division Ordinance, which affects divisions of 1-4 lots of 20 acres or less, with municipalities not yet remonumented exempt until they are. The board also approved Resolution #21-05-01 establishing a fee for Certified Survey Map reviews, and several other resolutions including adding a full-time public health nurse, a remote work policy, and purchasing electronic message boards. All votes were unanimous except for the return-to-workplace guidelines, which passed with one dissenting vote, and the motion to open all courthouse entrances, which passed 2-1.

• Approved Ordinance #21-05-01 adopting the Buffalo County Land Division Ordinance (roll call vote, carried)
• Approved Resolution #21-05-01 establishing the Certified Survey Map (CSM) Review and Application Fee (roll call vote, carried)
• Approved Resolution #21-05-02 establishing the Economic Development Committee retroactively as a subcommittee of Finance (carried)
• Approved Resolution #21-05-03 adding a full-time Public Health Nurse in 2021 (roll call vote, carried)
• Approved Resolution #21-05-04 opposing changes to Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims Programs (carried)
• Approved Resolution #21-05-05 adding Policy 512 Remote Work to the employee handbook (roll call vote, carried)
• Approved Resolution #21-05-06 purchasing electronic message boards using American Recovery Plan funds (carried)
• Approved amended Return to Workplace Guidelines (carried, with one no vote) and motion to open all courthouse entrances (carried, 2 no votes)

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution opposing Senate Bill 63 and Assembly Bill 49, which would move the Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims program from local Ag and Extension Committees to the DNR. The resolution argues this change would remove local control and force landowners to travel to Madison for appeals. The board will vote on adopting the resolution and sending it to state officials.

• Resolution opposing Senate Bill 63 and Assembly Bill 49
• Program currently administered by Ag and Extension Committee since 1983
• Funded by hunting license surcharge
• Directs County Clerk to send resolution to Governor, Legislature, and counties association

Buffalo County Ordinances

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance 21-05-01, the Buffalo County Land Division Ordinance, on May 24, 2021. This ordinance sets rules for dividing or combining land parcels in unincorporated areas, including requirements for Certified Survey Maps (CSMs), fees, and enforcement. It applies only to towns that have completed remonumentation.

• Requires a Certified Survey Map for land divisions creating parcels of 20 acres or less, including property line dispute resolutions
• CSM must be approved by County Surveyor, Register of Deeds, and Zoning Department before recording
• CSM review fee required as per Zoning Department Fee Schedule
• Appeals of Zoning Department decisions go to Land Use Committee within 30 days
• Penalties for violations as provided in Buffalo County Zoning Ordinance

Economic Development Committee

The Buffalo County Economic Development Committee will review and potentially act on the Great River State Trail – Winona Connector Phase II request for proposal, discuss Farm Technology Days, and consider other routine items. The agenda includes public comment periods and reports from the department manager and committee chair.

• Review/Discussion/Action: Great River State Trail – Winona Connector PH-II, Request for Proposal, Initial Selection Process
• Review/Discussion/Action: Farm Technology Days
• Review/Discussion: Department Manager Report
• Review/Discussion: Committee Chair Report
• Review/Discussion/Action: Next Meeting Date and Time

The committee reviewed and ranked four firms for the Great River State Trail – Winona Connector Phase II survey and engineering work, selecting SEH and MSA for interviews. A subcommittee was appointed to handle negotiations, with interviews set for June 15, 2021. The committee also approved the previous meeting minutes and discussed upcoming Farm Technology Day and the department manager's training schedule.

• Approved minutes of May 5, 2021 meeting
• Selected SEH and MSA for GRST-WC Phase II interviews
• Appointed subcommittee for negotiations (Weiss, Danzinger, Highway Commissioner Platteter tentative)

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee will review and potentially act on several items, including a resolution to establish the Economic Development Committee retroactively, broadband funding requests from the Towns of Cross and Mondovi, adding a full-time public health nurse, adopting a remote work policy, setting a fee for certified survey map review, and allocating American Rescue Plan Act funds. The committee will also review monthly invoices, payroll, and a financial update.

• Resolution to establish Economic Development Committee retroactively to Jan. 27, 2016
• Broadband request from Town of Cross: $100,000 county commitment toward $3,000,000 fiber-to-the-home project
• Resolution to add full-time public health nurse for children's long-term services
• Resolution to add Policy 512 Remote Work (Telecommuting) to employee handbook
• Resolution to purchase message boards from American Rescue Plan Act funding

The Finance Committee approved a resolution to formally establish the Economic Development Committee as a subcommittee of Finance, retroactively. They also approved a letter of commitment for $100,000 in broadband funding for the Town of Cross, a resolution to add a full-time public health nurse, a resolution setting fees for certified survey map review, and a resolution to purchase message boards using American Rescue Act funds. The committee tabled discussion on a remote work policy, noting it was inadvertently on the agenda and had already been approved by the HR Committee.

• Approved resolution to establish Economic Development Committee (all in favor)
• Approved letter of commitment for $100,000 broadband funding for Town of Cross (all in favor)
• Approved resolution to add full-time public health nurse (all in favor)
• Approved resolution to set Certified Survey Map Review and Application Fee (all in favor)
• Approved resolution to purchase message boards from American Rescue Funding (all in favor)
• Approved monthly vendor invoices, payroll, and investment report (all in favor)
• Tabled remote work policy (not discussed, inadvertently on agenda)

ADRC Committee

The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Buffalo and Pepin Counties is meeting to consider reopening congregate meal sites on June 1, 2021, and to set 2021 transportation rates. The board will also approve a large consent agenda of nutrition program procedures and discuss meeting frequency. Public comments are limited to listed agenda items.

• June 1 reopening of congregate meal sites for Buffalo and Pepin Counties
• 2021 transportation rates for Buffalo and Pepin Counties
• Approval of 24 nutrition program procedures (P-401 through P-444)
• Approval of April 15, 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussion on meeting frequency

Buffalo/Pepin Community Justice Collaborating Council

The Buffalo/Pepin Criminal Justice Collaborating Council will meet via Zoom to review and discuss routine reports on finances, community service, jail populations, and reentry programs. The agenda includes updates on the Moving Forward Reentry Program, a Veterans Special Project, and a possible letter of support for a DOJ program. Most items are informational updates and routine approvals.

• Review of CJCC financial report with balance of $34,440.35
• Discussion of DOJ budget request and letter of support for TAD program
• Updates on jail inmate status for Buffalo and Pepin counties
• Report on Community Work Service program with 165 total hours in 2021
• Update on Buffalo Pepin Literacy Alliance COVID-19 vaccination outreach

The Criminal Justice Collaborating Council (CJCC) for Buffalo and Pepin Counties met on May 18, 2021, and approved the March 16, 2021 minutes, the financial report showing a balance of $34,344.35, and the Community Work Service report. The council also discussed the Moving Forward jail reentry program, a DOJ budget request, and updates on jail populations and vaccination efforts. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.

• Approved March 16, 2021 minutes as presented
• Approved CJCC financial report with balance of $34,344.35
• Approved Community Work Service report

Law Enforcement & Emergency Management Committee

The Buffalo County Law Enforcement and Emergency Management Committee will review law enforcement expenditures, monthly reports, and consider a resolution to hire a limited-term deputy sheriff for patrol. They will also discuss filling the vacant Emergency Management Director position and review the CJCC annual report and programs. The meeting may go into closed session for personnel matters.

• Resolution to hire a Limited Term Employee as Deputy Sheriff for Patrol at $22.30/hr for up to 80 hrs per 2-week period
• Discussion/action on filling vacant Emergency Management Director position
• Review of law enforcement vouchers totaling $52,980.46 for April 2021
• Discussion of CJCC 2020 Annual Report and programs (Literacy Link, MOVING FORWARD, Veterans & Justice Systems)
• Closed session possible under WI Stat. 19.85(1)(f) for financial/medical info

The committee approved filling the vacant Emergency Management Director position, with revisions to the job description to be considered. They also approved a permanent part-time deputy position for 6 months, denied an unpaid leave request, and filled a vacant communications/corrections position. The meeting included routine approvals of minutes and vouchers.

• Approved filling Emergency Management Director position (motion carried)
• Approved permanent part-time deputy for 6 months, first 3 months at 40 hours/week for training (motion carried)
• Denied unpaid leave request for communications/corrections employee (motion carried)
• Approved filling vacant communications/corrections position (motion carried)
• Approved April minutes (motion carried)
• Approved law enforcement vouchers (motion carried)

Highway Committee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee will meet to review and act on routine items including minutes, vouchers, and financial updates, as well as discuss staffing, equipment purchases, building improvements, and road and bridge projects. The committee may enter closed session to discuss employee evaluations. The agenda includes several action items, such as approving equipment purchases and bids for chip seal and culverts.

• Consideration of new loader with tool carrier
• Revisions to 2021 equipment purchases
• Bids on chip seal oil and aggregate
• Bids on culverts
• Shop improvements in Urne and Waumandee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee approved several purchases and contracts, including an adjusted 2021 equipment list, shop improvements at the Waumandee and Ume shops, purchase of a neighboring parcel, and bids for chip seal oil and aggregate. They also decided to backfill a patrolman position and delay bidding on a new crew cab pickup until 2022 pricing is available. All decisions were made unanimously or by voice vote as recorded.

• Approved monthly vouchers totaling $78,028.40 (unanimous)
• Approved backfilling Patrolman position (motion carried)
• Approved adjusted 2021 equipment list (motion carried)
• Approved shop improvements at Waumandee and Ume shops for $18,368.00 to Buck Country Construction (motion carried)
• Approved purchase of neighboring parcel for $3,400.00 plus closing costs (motion carried)
• Accepted low bid from Flint Hills for chip seal oil (motion carried)
• Accepted low bid from Wabasha Sand/Gravel for chip seal aggregate with sampling and monitoring conditions (motion carried)
• Approved motion to purchase culverts at lowest price including inventory (motion carried)

Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee

The Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee will consider a resolution opposing Wisconsin Senate Bill 63 and Assembly Bill 49, which would shift administration of the Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims Program from local Ag and Extension committees to the DNR. The committee will also review and potentially approve a FoodWIse county agreement for federal fiscal year 2022, which requires the county to provide office space and shared resources. Other agenda items include updates on NRCS programs, non-metallic mining, a drone presentation, and the Driftless Area Conservation Plan, plus approval of prior meeting minutes and telecommuting plans.

• Resolution opposing Senate Bill 63 and Assembly Bill 49 on wildlife damage program changes
• FoodWIse County Agreement for federal fiscal year 2022 (October 1, 2021 – September 30, 2022)
• Proposed telecommuting plans for support staff and conservationist
• NRCS Programs Update by Dennis Reimers, District Conservationist
• Non-Metallic Mining Update – Milestone Materials

The Land Conservation Committee voted to send a resolution to the full board opposing proposed changes to the Wisconsin Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims Program, which would shift control to the DNR. The committee also approved the annual FoodWIse agreement, two telecommuting plans, and heard updates on various programs.

• Approved sending resolution to full board opposing DNR takeover of Wildlife Damage Abatement program (carried)
• Approved continued county support of FoodWIse program (carried)
• Approved telecommuting plan for Roxane Weisenbeck (carried)
• Approved telecommuting plan for Kristin Foehringer (carried)

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Committee is meeting to review employee return-to-work guidelines and a new remote work policy. The body will also consider adding a full-time public health nurse to provide children's long-term and public health services.

• Resolution to add Policy 512 Remote Work (Telecommuting) Policy to Employee Handbook
• Resolution to add a full-time Public Health Nurse in 2021
• Review of Buffalo County Employee Return to Work Place Guidelines
• Formal telecommuting plans for Department of Health and Human Services
• Closed session to review Buffalo County Highway investigation report

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee approved a new Remote Work (Telecommuting) Policy for the employee handbook, with amendments requiring a set work schedule and a childcare/dependent care plan, for a one-year trial period. They also approved formal telecommuting plans for ten Department of Health and Human Services positions, also for a one-year trial. Additionally, the committee approved a resolution to add a full-time Public Health Nurse position in 2021.

• Approved Remote Work (Telecommuting) Policy with amendments (5-1, roll call)
• Approved telecommuting for 7 full-time and 3 limited-term HHS positions (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to add full-time Public Health Nurse (unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Entered closed session to review Highway Investigation Report (unanimous)

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Sub-Committee is meeting to discuss the wage scale review and determine next steps. This follows a previous effort to compare Buffalo County wages and classifications with other Wisconsin counties.

• Review and discussion of wage scale review and next steps

The committee reviewed wage data showing some positions are 10-41% below the five-county average, with Highway wages not yet entered. They discussed reducing job classifications and developing a scoring tool, and Brenda Creighton will prepare cost analysis for the next meeting. The next meeting was set for June 7, 2021. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting (motion carried)
• Set next meeting for June 7, 2021 at 8:00 a.m. (motion carried)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee approved a resolution to formalize its establishment and duties, with an amendment adding agriculture and manufacturing to its responsibilities. It also voted to support $100,000 financial requests from the Town of Cross and the Town of Mondovi under the Buffalo County Broadband Award Policy, with the Cross motion passing 4-1 (Mr. Taylor voting no). The committee decided not to order the 2020 brochure and deferred further work on bylaws and the Great River State Trail maintenance agreement to future meetings.

• Approved minutes of March 11, 2021
• Approved resolution establishing the Economic Development Committee retroactively, with amendment adding agriculture and manufacturing to responsibilities
• Decided not to order the 2020 Buffalo County brochure
• Approved support for Town of Cross broadband request for $100K (4-1, Taylor no)
• Approved support for Town of Mondovi broadband request for $100K
• Tabled further action on committee bylaws pending revisions
• Scheduled next meeting for May 20, 2021

Broadband Committee

The Buffalo County Broadband Committee is meeting to review and discuss broadband updates from the Towns of Cross and Mondovi, as well as future funding from the Public Services Commission. The committee will also hear an update on Starlink and other broadband industry developments. The meeting is open to the public.

• Review/Discussion/Action: Town of Cross broadband update
• Review/Discussion/Action: Town of Mondovi broadband update
• Review/Discussion/Action: Future funding from Public Services Commission
• Review/Discussion/Action: Broadband industry update, including Starlink
• Review/Discussion/Action: Minutes of previous meeting

The Buffalo County Broadband Subcommittee voted to bring support for the Town of Mondovi broadband project to the economic development committee. Members also discussed updates on the Town of Cross project, PSC funding, and a TDS Fiber project in the Town of Alma. No final funding or contracts were approved.

• Approved minutes of March 11, 2021 meeting
• Moved to bring support for Mondovi broadband project to economic development committee
• Discussed Town of Cross broadband project update
• Discussed PSC funding and American Rescue Plan funds for broadband
• Discussed TDS Fiber project in Town of Alma

Human Resources Committee

The Buffalo County Human Resources Sub-Committee is meeting to review and discuss the wage scale review process and guidelines, and to set the next meeting date and time. The meeting is open to the public, with time for public comment on agenda items and other matters. No final decisions on wages are listed on the agenda; the items are for review and discussion only.

• Review/discussion of wage scale review process and guidelines
• Setting next meeting date and time
• Public comment on agenda items and non-agenda matters
• Meeting at 9:30 a.m. in the 3rd Floor County Board Room, Buffalo County Courthouse

The Human Resources Sub-Committee reviewed the wage scale review process and guidelines, deciding to use Step 1 of comparison counties' scales as a starting point. Members were assigned departments to review, and the next meeting was set for May 10, 2021. No formal decisions were made; the process is ongoing.

• Decided to use Step 1 of comparison counties' scales as starting point
• Assigned committee members to review specific departments/classifications
• Set next meeting for May 10, 2021 at 8:00 a.m.

Buffalo/Pepin Community Justice Collaborating Council

The Buffalo/Pepin Criminal Justice Collaborating Council will meet via Zoom to review and discuss updates on jail populations, court operations, reentry programs, and financial reports. The meeting is open to the public, and no final decisions are expected beyond routine approvals.

• Review of March 2021 financial statement and CJS 2020 annual report
• Status update on pretrial pilot program in Wisconsin
• Discussion of DOJ budget request and letter of support for TAD program
• Updates on Moving Forward Reentry Program and Veterans Special Project
• Report on community work service and inmate status for Buffalo and Pepin counties

The Criminal Justice Collaborating Council approved the March 16, 2021 minutes, the financial report with a balance of $34,525.61, and the Community Work Service report. The council also granted permission to report on the Moving Forward Reentry Program, Veterans and Justice Systems Special Project, and The Literacy Link Program to Buffalo County Law Enforcement Committees. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.

• Approved March 16, 2021 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved CJCC financial report with balance of $34,525.61 (motion carried)
• Approved Community Work Service report (motion carried)
• Granted permission to report on reentry, veterans, and literacy programs to Buffalo County Law Enforcement Committees (motion carried)

Highway Committee

The committee will meet to consider and act upon a tour of county roads regarding 2021 construction. The agenda also includes reports from the Commissioner and committee members.

• Consideration/Action – Tour County Roads – Construction 2021

County Board

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors will consider several resolutions, including creating and filling a Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position in the Highway Department, modifying wage scales for that role, the County Patrol Superintendent, and the Materials Recovery Facility Supervisor/Truck Driver, and providing county aid for a bridge/culvert project in the Town of Canton on Owen Valley Road. The board will also discuss an ATV/UTV project update, appoint a Public Health Supervisor/Health Officer, and review modifications to employee return-to-workplace guidelines regarding air travel and the wellness center.

• Resolution #21-04-01 to create and fill a Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position in the Highway Department
• Resolution #21-04-02 to modify wage scales for County Patrol Superintendent, Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator, and Materials Recovery Facility Supervisor/Truck Driver
• Resolution #21-04-03 for county aid for bridges and culverts under Section 82.08 for the Town of Canton Owen Valley Road
• Appointment of Josie Knauber as Public Health Supervisor/Health Officer
• Modification to Employee Return to Workplace Guidelines on air travel based on CDC guidance and Wellness Workout Center

The Buffalo County Board approved several resolutions and appointments, including creating and filling a Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position in the Highway Department, modifying wage scales to include new positions, and providing county aid for a town bridge. The board also approved updated employee return-to-work guidelines, including CDC travel guidance, wellness center usage limits, and a June 1st change to make facemasks strongly encouraged rather than required. All votes were unanimous except the facemask/timeline portion, which passed with three no votes.

• Approved appointment of Josie Knauber as Public Health Supervisor/Health Officer (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-04-01 creating and filling Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-04-02 modifying wage scales for new positions and Materials Recovery Facility Supervisor/Truck Driver (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution #21-04-03 county aid for Town of Canton Owen Valley Road bridge (unanimous)
• Approved CDC travel guidelines for employees (unanimous)
• Approved wellness center usage with two-person limit and no guests (unanimous)
• Approved return-to-work timeline and facemask regulations change to strongly encouraged effective June 1 (3 no votes: Weiss, Bruegger, Bork)

County Board

This is a procedural meeting of the Buffalo County Board of Supervisors, with the sole substantive item being training on Surface Go tablets. No policy decisions, ordinances, or contracts are on the agenda.

• Training on Surface Go Tablets for County Board Supervisors

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to levy a special tax for the county's share of an emergency town bridge and culvert project. The project, under state statute 82.08, covers Owen Valley Road in the Town of Canton, with the county and town each contributing $9,500. The resolution was approved by the Highway and Finance Committees and is scheduled for board adoption on April 26, 2021.

• Resolution #21-04: County aid for town bridges and culverts under Section 82.08
• $19,000 total project cost for Owen Valley Road, Town of Canton
• County share: $9,500; Town share: $9,500
• Special tax levy authorized for county's share
• Approved by Highway Committee (Apr 13) and Finance Committee (Apr 15)

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors will consider a resolution to amend the 2021 salary classification and compensation system for non-represented employees. The changes include reclassifying the Materials Recovery Facility Supervisor and Truck Driver, adding a County Patrol Superintendent, and creating a new Parts/Safety Training Coordinator position. The resolution also authorizes budget transfers to cover the associated salary costs.

• Reclassify Materials Recovery Facility Supervisor and Truck Driver to Class IV, effective March 13, 2021
• Add County Patrol Superintendent to wage scale, effective April 11, 2021
• Add new Parts/Safety Training Coordinator position to Class III, effective upon filling
• Transfer funds from General Fund to Highway Fund for new positions
• Transfer funds from Recycling Fund to cover reclassification adjustment

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to create and fill a Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position in the Highway Department. The position would manage parts inventories and expand safety training. The resolution also allows filling the position vacated if a current employee is hired. The estimated cost is $47,723.93 for the first year and $67,835.90 for the second year.

• Create and fill Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position
• Estimated first-year cost: $47,723.93
• Estimated second-year cost: $67,835.90
• Authorization to fill vacated position if current employee is hired

Law Enforcement & Emergency Management Committee

The committee is reviewing law enforcement vouchers, squad leases, and financial updates for both law enforcement and emergency management. The agenda also includes reviewing monthly reports from the Sheriff, Chief Deputy, and Jail Administrator.

• Review/Action of Law Enforcement vouchers
• Review/Action of Squad Leases
• Review/Action of Law Enforcement Financial Update
• Review/Discussion of 2020 Law Enforcement/Jail Financials
• Review/Discussion of Emergency Management Financial Update

The committee approved exchanging three leased Dodge Durangos for two Ford Explorers, citing mechanical issues and a net gain of $217.13 after costs. They also approved law enforcement vouchers and the January minutes. The sheriff reported being under budget for 2020 and current year, with final 2020 numbers showing $2,507,471 spent against a $2,593,284 budget.

• Approved January minutes (motion by Grisen, second by Sendelbach)
• Approved law enforcement vouchers as presented (motion by Grisen, second by Sendelbach)
• Approved exchange of three Durangos for two Ford Explorers (motion by Sendelbach, second by Grisen)

Miscellaneous Agendas

This is a routine monthly meeting of the Buffalo County Unit of the Wisconsin Towns Association for town officials. The agenda includes standard items like minutes, financial report, and officer elections, plus a presentation from the Highway Commissioner on highway projects. No specific decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Election of officers
• Presentation by Highway Commissioner Robert Platteter on highway projects
• Legislator reports
• WTA Director's report by Steve Dickinsen and Sharon Folcey
• In-person meeting with CDC guidelines and face covering requirement

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee will consider resolutions to create a Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position in the Highway Department, modify wage scales to include the new position and County Patrol Superintendent, and reclassify the Materials Recovery Facility Supervisor/Truck Driver. They will also review a resolution for county aid for a bridge/culvert project on Owen Valley Road in the Town of Canton, plus routine financial items like vendor invoices and payroll.

• Resolution to create and fill Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position (Highway Department)
• Resolution to modify wage scales: add County Patrol Superintendent and Parts/Safety Training Coordinator, reclassify Materials Recovery Facility Supervisor/Truck Driver to Class IV
• Resolution for County Aid for Towns Bridges and Culverts (Section 82.08) – Town of Canton Owen Valley Road
• Review of monthly vendor invoices/vouchers/employee payroll/funds investment report
• Review of grant procedures

The Buffalo County Finance Committee approved a resolution to create and fill a Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position in the Highway Department, which had been vacant. They also approved a resolution to modify wage scales for that position and for the County Patrol Superintendent and Materials Recovery Facility Supervisor/Truck Driver roles. Additionally, they approved county aid for an emergency bridge replacement in the Town of Canton and approved monthly invoices and vouchers.

• Approved resolution to create and fill Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to modify wage scales for County Patrol Superintendent and Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator, and change Materials Recovery Facility Supervisor/Truck Driver scales (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for county aid for Town of Canton Owen Valley Road emergency bridge replacement (unanimous)
• Approved monthly vendor invoices, vouchers, and payroll (unanimous)

ADRC Committee

The Aging and Disability Resource Center Governing Board will meet to approve the agenda and prior minutes, review financial and manager reports, and discuss the 2022-2024 Aging Plan with community survey feedback. A Winona State intern will present a capstone project. The meeting is open to the public with options to attend in person or via Zoom.

• Review of ADRC Financial Report
• Discussion of 2022-2024 Aging Plan and community survey feedback
• Capstone project presentation by Cassidy Kaempf, Winona State intern
• Approval of minutes from February 18, 2021 meeting
• Public comments on listed agenda items

Highway Safety Commission

The Buffalo County Highway Safety Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear citizen concerns, and receive updates from the Sheriff, Emergency Management, Highway Department, WisDOT, State Patrol, and other representatives. A key discussion item is a log truck versus car crash on Hwy 35/95. The meeting is open to the public, with virtual attendance available.

• Discussion of Hwy 35/95 log truck versus car crash
• Sheriff's Office update by Sheriff Schmidtknecht
• Emergency Management update by Bruce Fuerbringer
• Highway Department update by Bob Platetter
• WisDOT updates from Dan Kontos, Rick Tumaniec, and State Patrol

The Buffalo County Highway Safety Commission met on April 15, 2021, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. Members discussed the 5th Street intersection parking, a significant crash in Fountain City, and upcoming safety campaigns. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the minutes.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion by Schmidtknecht, second by Fuerbringer)
• Discussed 5th Street intersection parking and township street signs
• Discussed truck runoff at Highway 95/35 intersection in Fountain City
• Noted upcoming train derailment exercise in Fountain City
• Reported 41 crashes year-to-date in Buffalo County, no fatalities
• Acknowledged Dennis Semling's work and commitment

Miscellaneous Agendas

The Buffalo County Veterans Memorial Committee is meeting to review and discuss the maintenance of the Veterans Memorial, including damage repair, and the Dave Ebert Brick Team. The meeting is open to the public, with face coverings required for in-person attendance.

• Review/Discussion/Action on Dave Ebert Brick Team
• Review/Discussion/Action on Maintenance of Veterans Memorial (Damage Repair)
• Review/Discussion/Action on Minutes of the Previous Meeting

Highway Committee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee will meet to review and act on staffing requests, equipment purchases, and road and bridge projects. Items include filling a foreman position, take-home vehicles, new shop truck, loader, electronic message boards, and technology automation. The committee will also discuss the 2021 construction list, chip sealing on CTH NN, CTH H bridge deck, and other road items.

• Request to fill foreman position
• Purchase of one new shop truck, cab, chassis & service body
• Purchase of one new loader with tool carrier
• Purchase of two electronic message boards
• 2021 construction list and chip seal on CTH NN

The Buffalo County Highway Committee approved filling the foreman position, allowing take-home vehicles during construction season, purchasing a new shop truck and loader/tool carrier, and forwarding an electronic message board purchase to the Finance Committee. They also approved an emergency petition for the Owen Valley bridge and a lease offer for a parcel. No public comments were made.

• Approved filling the open foreman position
• Approved foreman take-home vehicles during construction season (April-November)
• Approved purchase of new shop truck and service body for $89,614.00
• Approved purchase of new loader/tool carrier up to $150,650.00
• Approved forwarding electronic message board purchase to Finance Committee and County Board
• Approved emergency petition for Owen Valley bridge with county cost of $9,500.00
• Approved offer of $3,400.00 for leased parcel or continue lease

Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee

The Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee will review and take action on several items, including 2021 cost-share contracts, an update on the Segerstrom/Buffalo White Sands project, and revisions to the LCRMD position description. They will also discuss the Land and Water Resource Management Plan update and Outdoor Recreation Plan survey results. The meeting includes a financial update and agency reports.

• 2021 Cost-Share Contracts
• Segerstrom/Buffalo White Sands, LLC update
• CapX Bluff Prairie Operation and Maintenance
• Land and Water Resource Management Plan update
• LCRMD Position Description revisions

The Land Conservation Committee approved the proposed 2021 cost-share agreement contracts for DATCP SWRM and SEG grant programs, and approved revisions to departmental position descriptions. The committee also discussed the Segerstrom/Buffalo White Sands site, noting reclamation needs exceed the bonded amount, and expressed interest in having landowners retroactively sign operation and maintenance plans.

• Approved February 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved 2021 cost-share projects list
• Approved LCRMD position description revisions

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Committee will discuss the creation and wage scales for a Parts/Safety Training Coordinator and a County Patrol Superintendent. The body will also consider updates to telecommuting and return-to-work guidelines related to COVID-19.

• Position description and wage scale for County Patrol Superintendent
• Creation and wage scale for Parts/Safety Training Coordinator
• Update to Telecommuting Policy and elimination of COVID-19 temporary schedules
• Modification to Employee Return to Work Place Guidelines regarding air travel and wellness centers
• Appointment of a Wage Sub-Committee

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee approved the creation of a County Patrol Superintendent position as part of succession planning, with pay equal to the State Superintendent and placement at step 2 (a $1.88/hour increase). It also approved the Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position description, resolution to create and fill the role, and wage scale (Class 3 Patrolman, step 1 at $21.06, step 8 at $24.00). The committee tabled the telecommuting policy pending review with department managers and forwarded updated return-to-workplace guidelines to the County Board for approval.

• Approved County Patrol Superintendent position description (unanimous)
• Approved County Patrol Superintendent wage scale at State Superintendent level, step 2 (unanimous)
• Amended and approved Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position description (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to create and fill Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator position (unanimous)
• Approved Parts/Safety & Training Coordinator wage scale (Class 3 Patrolman, $21.06–$24.00) (unanimous)
• Tabled telecommuting policy pending review with department managers (unanimous)
• Forwarded return-to-workplace guidelines to County Board for approval (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to modify wage scales to include new positions and change Materials Recovery Facility Supervisor/Truck Driver (unanimous)

Miscellaneous Agendas

The Buffalo County Board of Canvassers is meeting to canvass and certify the results of the April 6, 2021 Spring Election. This is a procedural meeting to officially verify election outcomes.

• Canvass of April 6, 2021 Spring Election results

County Board

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing and meeting on March 22, 2021. The main item is a proposed ordinance designating ATV/UTV routes on county highways, with public testimony. The board will also vote on several resolutions, including budget amendments, employee handbook changes, and support for the Great River State Trail connector.

• Ordinance #21-03-01: Designates ATV/UTV routes on all county trunk highways except Highway Y, with conditions like speed limits and seasonal use.
• Resolution #21-03-02: Adds Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer position to salary classification.
• Resolution #21-03-04: Amends county budget for Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer expenditures.
• Resolution #21-03-08: Merges Buffalo County WIC program with Trempealeau County WIC program.
• Resolution #21-03-10: Supports Great River State Trail – Winona Connector Phase II.

The Buffalo County Board enacted Ordinance #21-03-01 designating all-terrain vehicle routes and regulating their operation, after amending it to change the end time of operation to one hour after sunset and to follow state statutes as amended. The ordinance passed by roll call vote with three members voting no. The board also approved multiple resolutions, including adding an Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer position to the wage scale and budget, supporting increased adult protective services, and merging the WIC program with Trempealeau County.

• Enacted Ordinance #21-03-01 (ATV/UTV routes) after amendments; roll call vote: 3 no (Sendelbach, Bruegger, Bork).
• Approved Resolution #21-03-01 honoring retirement of Pauline Glentz.
• Approved Resolution #21-03-02 adding Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer to wage scales.
• Approved Resolution #21-03-03 adding coronavirus response leave policy to employee handbook.
• Approved Resolution #21-03-04 amending budget for Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer.
• Approved Resolution #21-03-05 supporting increased adult protective services funding.
• Approved Resolution #21-03-06 funding unbudgeted intercom system for Sheriff's Department.
• Approved Resolution #21-03-10 supporting Great River State Trail – Winona Connector Phase II engineering study.

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution recognizing the retirement of Pauline (Polly) Glentz. Ms. Glentz served as a Communication/Corrections Officer in the Sheriff’s Office for 20 full-time years. The resolution was submitted by the Human Resources Committee and carries no financial impact.

• Resolution recognizing the retirement of Pauline (Polly) Glentz
• Acknowledges 20 years of full-time service in the Sheriff’s Office
• No financial impact associated with the resolution

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to add an addendum to Policy 206 of the Employee Handbook, creating a temporary emergency paid health leave benefit for employees affected by COVID-19. The federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act paid leave expired December 31, 2020, and this county policy would fill that gap from January 1 to June 30, 2021. The resolution is recommended by the Human Resources Committee and has an unknown fiscal impact for the 2021 budget.

• Resolution to add addendum to Policy 206 (Leaves: Family, Medical, Military and Emergency Health Leave) for coronavirus response
• Emergency paid health leave: up to 80 hours for full-time employees, prorated for part-time
• Leave available for quarantine, isolation, or COVID-19 symptoms; no requirement to use other paid leave first
• Unused emergency leave does not carry into 2022 and is forfeited upon separation
• Policy effective January 1 to June 30, 2021

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to amend the 2021 budget to add up to $25,000 from the general fund for administrative office expenditures and Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) contributions and interest related to the Economic Development Coordinator and Grant Writer positions. The amendment addresses costs not included when the budget was created, including repayment for contributions and interest due to military leave. The resolution also authorizes the County Administration Office to make the necessary budget entries.

• Amends 2021 budget with up to $25,000 from general fund
• Covers administrative expenditures and WRS contributions/interest
• Relates to Economic Development Coordinator and Grant Writer positions
• Positions approved in March 2017 and December 2019, respectively
• Authorizes County Administration Office to make budget entries

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to request more state funding for adult protection. The measure asks the state legislature and health agencies to address rising costs and service gaps for seniors and adults with disabilities.

• Resolution to urge WCHSA, WCA, and State legislature to review adult protection funding
• Request for Wisconsin DHS to develop a plan for increasing residential service capacity

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to merge the county's WIC program with Trempealeau County's WIC program. The merger would make Trempealeau County the administrator and financial manager, with all program staff employed by Trempealeau County. The resolution cites declining caseloads and state encouragement for regional consortiums. No additional county levy is required at this time.

• Merger of Buffalo County WIC with Trempealeau County WIC
• Trempealeau County to administer combined program and manage grants
• All program staff to be employed by Trempealeau County
• No additional county levy required at this time
• Costs shared proportionally if future grant shortfall requires levy

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to approve a 3% wage increase for Administrative Coordinator Sonya J. Hansen, bringing her annualized salary to $87,517, retroactive to January 1, 2021. The increase is based on a February 22, 2021 performance review and is accounted for in the 2021 budget. The resolution was drafted by the Administration department and reviewed by the Committee of the Board, Human Resources, and Finance committees.

• 3% wage increase for Administrative Coordinator, annualized salary $87,517
• Retroactive to January 1, 2021
• Performance review conducted February 22, 2021
• No fiscal impact to 2021 budget

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to authorize a Phase II engineering study for the Great River State Trail-Winona Connector, completing the final 2.8 miles. The study would be funded by existing grants and donations, with no use of levied tax dollars. The resolution also authorizes the County Administrative Coordinator to sign contracts for the study.

• Resolution to support Great River State Trail-Winona Connector Phase II
• FLAP Grant of $1,200,000 with $240,000 cost share
• TAP Grant balance of approximately $90,000 for design costs
• Flyway Trail donations pledged at $403,000
• Preliminary engineering cost $150,000, with no county fiscal impact

Buffalo County Ordinances

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering an ordinance to designate all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and utility-terrain vehicle (UTV) routes on county trunk highways, with specific operating rules and penalties. The ordinance would open most county highways to ATV/UTV use, except County Trunk Highway Y unless Trempealeau County approves. It includes conditions such as speed limits, curfews, insurance, and safety requirements, with a maximum forfeiture of $500 for violations.

• Designates all County Trunk Highways as potential ATV/UTV routes except County Trunk Highway Y
• Speed limit of 35 MPH or posted limit, whichever is lower
• Routes open from April 1 through December 1
• Nighttime curfew: no operation from 1 hour before sunrise to 1 hour after sunset
• Penalty: forfeiture up to $500 plus costs

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to amend the salary classification and compensation system for non-represented employees to include the Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer position, which was vacant when the current pay grades were adopted. The resolution would approve the amended pay grade as shown in Exhibit A and authorize the Financial Advisor to adjust the Contingency Fund and budget to cover any additional wage and benefit costs.

• Resolution 31-62-Q2 amends salary classification to add Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer
• New position pay grade: Step 1 $24.33/hr to Step 8 $28.11/hr
• 2021 budgeted wages and benefits for the position: $53,048.00
• Resolution authorizes Contingency Fund and budget adjustment for additional costs
• Amended wage scales effective 3/23/2021

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to transfer up to $26,000 from the general fund to replace the courthouse's aging intercom system, which is no longer serviceable. The proposal, reviewed by the Finance Committee, would install a new AiPhone system from Ultra AVS, LLC, including an optional paging module. The resolution also amends the 2021 budget to cover the expenditure.

• Transfer of up to $26,000 from general fund for intercom upgrade
• Vendor: Ultra AVS, LLC (Rollingstone, MN) — estimate #1433
• Installation at Buffalo County Jail, 407 S 2nd Street, Alma, WI
• Includes 17 door locations rewired with CAT5e, IP audio door stations, and PC master station software
• Optional paging module to retain hallway speakers (+$699.99)

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to add a limited-term Public Health Worker position to support COVID-19 vaccination clinics. The position would be funded by federal CDC Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity (ELC) funds allocated to the county, with a total fiscal impact of $10,638 for 2021. The resolution was drafted by the Department of Health and Human Services and reviewed by the DHHS & Veterans Services, Human Resources, and Finance committees.

• Adds limited-term Public Health Worker position for COVID-19 response
• Position supports vaccination clinics: outreach, registration, volunteer recruitment, billing consultation
• Funded by $432,000 Buffalo County portion of CDC ELC supplemental funds
• 2021 cost: $9,246 salary plus $1,392 benefits, total $10,638
• ELC funds available until November 15, 2022

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee will review and potentially act on several resolutions, including supporting the Great River State Trail–Winona Connector Phase II, approving a limited-term public health care worker position for COVID-19 response, merging the county WIC program with Trempealeau County, and approving a 2021 wage increase for the administrative coordinator. The committee will also review zoning permits and revenues, monthly invoices, and financial updates. The agenda includes both action items and discussion-only items.

• Resolution to support Great River State Trail–Winona Connector Phase II (FLAP grant $1,200,000, cost share $240,000)
• Resolution to approve limited-term public health care worker position for COVID-19 response
• Resolution to merge Buffalo County WIC program with Trempealeau County WIC program
• Resolution to approve 2021 wage increase for administrative coordinator
• Review of zoning department permits and revenues

The Finance Committee approved a resolution supporting Phase II of the Great River State Trail – Winona Connector, contingent on a memorandum of understanding for escrow funds. It also approved a limited-term public health worker position for COVID-19 response, a merger of Buffalo County WIC with Trempealeau County's program, a 3% wage increase for the Administrative Coordinator, and monthly vouchers and invoices. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved resolution supporting Great River State Trail Phase II, pending MOU for escrow funds
• Approved limited-term Public Health Care Worker position for COVID-19 response (up to 600 hours through Dec 31, 2021)
• Approved merger of Buffalo County WIC with Trempealeau County WIC program
• Approved 3% wage increase for Administrative Coordinator for 2021
• Approved monthly vendor invoices, vouchers, and payroll
• Approved financial update for 2020
• Approved minutes of previous meeting

Buffalo/Pepin Community Justice Collaborating Council

The Buffalo/Pepin Criminal Justice Collaborating Council meets to review routine reports on finances, community work service, jail populations, and program updates. They will also discuss the 2020 end-of-year financial statement and the Treatment Alternatives and Diversion (TAD) program data. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• CJCC financial report balance of $34,525.61 as of March 1, 2021
• Community Work Service report shows 1 participant in 2021, 78 total hours
• Buffalo County jail lists 12 inmates; Pepin County jail lists 9 inmates
• BPLA update on literacy program and $5,000 Cenex Hometown Pride Grant
• Moving Forward Reentry Program update on peer specialist services

The Criminal Justice Collaborating Council approved the March 16, 2021 minutes, the financial report showing a balance of $34,525.61, and the Community Work Service report. The council also approved reporting on three programs to Buffalo County Law Enforcement Committees. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting consisted of updates and reports.

• Approved the March 16, 2021 meeting minutes as presented.
• Approved the CJCC financial report with a balance of $34,525.61.
• Approved the Community Work Service (CWS) report.
• Approved requesting permission to report on Moving Forward Reentry Program, Veterans and Justice Systems Special Project, and The Literacy Link Program to Buffalo County Law Enforcement Committees.

Law Enforcement & Emergency Management Committee

The Law Enforcement/Emergency Management Committee will review and take action on several items, including a patrol deputy resignation and backfill, an AVTEC upgrade cost, law enforcement vouchers, and financial updates. They will also discuss the 2020 annual report, jail inspection report, and county ordinances. The meeting is open to the public.

• Review/discussion/action on patrol deputy resignation and backfill of position
• Review/discussion/action on AVTEC upgrade cost
• Review/discussion/action on law enforcement vouchers
• Review/discussion of 2020 Law Enforcement Annual Report
• Review/discussion of 2020 Jail Inspection Report

The Law Enforcement and Emergency Management Committee approved an additional $600 for the Avtec console upgrade, bringing the total to $22,008, with the radio vendor covering half the cost increase. The committee also accepted a patrol deputy's resignation and approved backfilling the position. Minutes from January were approved, and law enforcement vouchers and financial reports were accepted as presented.

• Approved January meeting minutes.
• Accepted law enforcement vouchers as presented.
• Approved an additional $600 for the Avtec console upgrade, funded from staff salary savings.
• Accepted a patrol deputy's resignation and approved backfilling the position.
• Set next meeting for April 19, 2021 at 9:00 a.m.
• Adjourned at 10:07 a.m.

Economic Development Committee

The Buffalo County Economic Development Committee will review and possibly act on a resolution supporting Phase II of the Great River State Trail-Winona Connector, which would authorize an engineering study and pledge up to $240,000 in CAPX2020 funds as matching money. The committee will also review minutes, a financial update, hear from the Seven Rivers Alliance, and possibly a Starlink presentation. The agenda includes routine items like public comment and reports.

• Resolution to support Great River State Trail-Winona Connector Phase II, with $1.2M FLAP grant and $240,000 cost share
• Authorization to pledge up to $240,000 of CAPX2020 funding for matching grants, to be repaid by capital campaign
• Financial update: Economic Development budget $63,048, with $10,111.37 spent as of March 4, 2021
• Presentation by Chris Hardie of Seven Rivers Alliance
• Tentative presentation on Starlink

The Economic Development Committee tabled a resolution supporting funding for the Great River State Trail – Winona Connector Phase II until its May 5 meeting, after discussion over cost figure discrepancies. The committee approved the minutes from January 21, 2021. It also received updates on the 2021 budget, an economic development organization presentation, and a department manager's report.

• Approved the minutes of the January 21, 2021 meeting by roll call vote.
• Tabled the resolution to support funding for the Great River State Trail – Winona Connector Phase II until the May meeting; motion carried 3-2.
• Scheduled the next meeting for May 5, 2021 at 6:30 p.m.

Broadband Committee

The Buffalo County Broadband Committee, a sub-committee of Economic Development, is meeting to discuss and potentially act on broadband-related items. The agenda includes reviewing minutes, the Town of Cross broadband project, and industry updates from Starlink, the Eau Claire County Pilot Project, and the Bug Tussle Infrastructure Project. The meeting is open to the public with remote access available.

• Review/Discussion/Action: Town of Cross Broadband
• Update: Starlink and Eau Claire County Pilot Project
• Update: Bug Tussle Infrastructure Project
• Public comment on agenda items
• Next meeting date and time

The Buffalo County Broadband Subcommittee voted unanimously to recommend issuing a letter of support for $100,000 to the Town of Cross for its broadband project, forwarding the recommendation to the Economic Development Committee. The committee also approved the minutes of the January 21, 2021 meeting with a correction, and discussed broadband industry updates and new business.

• Approved minutes of January 21, 2021 with correction (motion by Weiss, second by Jost)
• Approved motion to forward backing for $100K letter of support to Town of Cross to Economic Development Committee (unanimous roll call)

Highway Committee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee will review and take action on several items, including staffing requests, equipment purchases, building and grounds needs, and road and bridge projects. The agenda includes a closed session for personnel matters, followed by open session actions on staffing, equipment, buildings, and roads. The committee will also consider the 2021 construction list, road bans, and bids for oiling and paving CTH E.

• Consideration of medical leaves, temporary foreman, patrolman backfill, and job descriptions for superintendent and parts/safety training coordinator
• Bids for one new crew cab pickup and one new skid steer trailer
• Office air testing and shop/office needs for Urne and Waumandee facilities
• 2021 construction list, culverts on Palkowski Rd., road bans, and bridge replacements
• Bids for oiling and paving 1.3 miles of CTH E

The Buffalo County Highway Committee approved several staffing actions, including filling a temporary foreman position, backfilling a patrolman position, and creating new positions for a County Patrol Superintendent and a Parts/Safety Training Coordinator. They also approved the purchase of a used paver, a new pickup truck, and a skid steer trailer, and tabled a decision on purchasing leased property until they can view the site.

• Approved minutes of the previous meeting.
• Approved vouchers.
• Approved filling the Foreman position on a temporary basis.
• Approved filling the Patrolman position with a new hire.
• Approved the position description for County Patrol Superintendent.
• Approved the amended position description for Parts/Safety Training Coordinator, adding an OSHA Safety Training requirement.
• Approved the resolution to fill the Parts/Safety Training Coordinator position.
• Tabled the leased property purchase until the committee can view the site.

Human Resources Committee

The Human Resources Committee will review position descriptions for public health and recycling roles. The body is considering resolutions to merge the county WIC program with Trempealeau County and approve a limited-term public health worker for COVID-19 response.

• Resolution to merge Buffalo County WIC Program with Trempealeau County WIC Program
• Resolution to approve limited term Public Health Care Worker position for COVID-19 response
• Resolution to approve 2021 wage increase for Administrative Coordinator
• Review of Materials Recovery Facility Supervisor & Truck Driver position description
• Discussion on Courthouse public access and employee return to work guidelines due to COVID-19

The committee approved reopening the courthouse on March 15 with mask requirements and appointments, approved a 3% wage increase for the Administrative Coordinator, and approved merging the WIC program with Trempealeau County. It also approved a limited-term Public Health Worker position funded by COVID funds, reinstated a step increase for an employee, and reclassified Recycling MRF Supervisors to a higher pay scale. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved courthouse reopening March 15 with south entrance only, masks required, appointments suggested (unanimous)
• Approved 3% wage increase for Administrative Coordinator retroactive to Jan 1 (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to merge Buffalo County WIC program with Trempealeau County (unanimous)
• Approved limited-term Public Health Worker position for 600 hours, funded by COVID funds (unanimous)
• Approved modifications to Return to Workplace Guidelines including temperature kiosks and vaccinated travel info (unanimous)
• Approved reclassification of Recycling MRF Supervisors to Sign Man/Experience Mechanic Class 4 scale (unanimous)
• Approved reinstating step increase for an employee with improvement plan (unanimous)
• Approved updated Materials Recovery Facility Supervisor & Truck Driver position description (unanimous)

Miscellaneous Agendas

The Flyway Trail Phase II committee is holding a public meeting to discuss the project's progress, including a Phase I update on the LAWCON grant, an overview of Phase II, and the way forward for engineering and construction. Funding options such as the FLAP grant, other government programs, and capital campaign funding will be reviewed, along with the project timeline. The meeting is open to the public, and no final decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Phase I update on LAWCON grant
• Phase II overview and engineering/construction discussion
• Funding review: FLAP grant, other government programs, capital campaign
• Timeline discussion

The Flyway Trail Board held a public meeting to discuss Phase II of the trail, which would extend it from the Town of Buffalo Park to the Great River Trail at an estimated cost of $1,975,000. No formal decisions were made; the board discussed funding options, including grants and fundraising, to cover a projected shortfall of about $445,000. Phase I funding issues, including a $419,000 shortfall, were noted as needing resolution before moving forward, and the matter was referred to the Finance Committee meeting on March 18.

• Referred Phase I funding shortfall resolution to Finance Committee meeting on March 18 (no vote recorded)
• Discussed Phase II trail extension with estimated cost of $1,975,000 (no formal action)
• Identified potential funding sources: FLAP grant, TAP grant, LAWCON, LTP program, capital campaign (no formal action)

Board of Adjustments

The Buffalo County Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to review and act on a conditional use permit application (CUP 2021-1) from Bug Tussel Wireless, with Lee Larson as agent, to construct a communication tower over 100 feet tall with ancillary equipment in the Agriculture/Natural Resource-5 Zoning District. The board will also review minutes from the October 28, 2020 meeting. The agenda includes application presentation, public comments, and board questions.

• Conditional Use Permit (CUP 2021-1) for communication tower over 100 feet in height
• Location: NW 1/4, SE 1/4, Section 33, Town of Buffalo, Buffalo County, WI
• Zoning district: Agriculture/Natural Resource-5
• Public hearing and comments on the application
• Review of October 28, 2020 meeting minutes

The Buffalo County Zoning Board of Adjustment approved conditional use permit CUP 2021-1 for a Bugtussel wireless tower on a marshland site, subject to conditions in the zoning report. The motion carried unanimously. The board also approved the minutes from the October 28, 2020 meeting with a minor change.

• Approved CUP 2021-1 for Bugtussel wireless tower with zoning conditions (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from October 28, 2020 meeting with minor change

Committee of the Board

The Committee of the Board will meet to discuss 2022 financial and capital improvement planning, redistricting, and the restructure of the Land Information Department. The agenda also includes a review of the Administrative Coordinator position and a potential closed session to evaluate that employee.

• Restructure of Land Information Department
• Redistricting
• CAPX2020 Funding & Future Projects/Requests
• 2022 Financial Planning and Capital Improvement Planning
• Administrative Coordinator position description and evaluation

The Committee of the Board approved a 3% wage increase for the county administrative coordinator, with a recommendation to take time off. They also approved a motion requiring committee chairs to review Rule 24 and collect cell phone numbers for agenda change notifications, and approved updates to Rules 23A and 27 to reflect tablet packet distribution and the county's single newspaper. Other items were discussed but not decided, including committee meeting times, land information restructuring, redistricting, CAPX2020 funding, and capital improvement planning.

• Approved 3% wage increase for administrative coordinator (unanimous)
• Approved motion for committee chairs to review Rule 24 and collect cell numbers for agenda change notifications (unanimous)
• Approved updates to Rules 23A and 27 for tablet packets and single newspaper (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)
• Approved closed session to evaluate county administrative coordinator (unanimous)
• Approved return to open session (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee will review and vote on several resolutions, including establishing a wage scale for the new Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer position, modifying sick leave policy for COVID-19 quarantine, supporting increased Adult Protective Services funding, and approving unbudgeted purchases like a courthouse intercom system. They will also discuss the 2020 financial update and approve waste hauler permits.

• Resolution to amend salary classification to add Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer (2021 budgeted wages $53,048)
• Resolution to modify Policy 206 to allow Personal Sick Leave Bank use for COVID-19 quarantine/isolation
• Resolution in support of increased Adult Protective Services funding
• Approval of waste hauler permits for Waste Transport, LLC, Waste Management, and Wabasha Rubbish Removal, LLC
• Discussion of unbudgeted ESRI software, license, and computer purchase

The Finance Committee approved a resolution to amend the salary classification and compensation system to add an Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer position, and approved a resolution to amend the 2021 budget to include expenditures for this new department. The committee also approved an unbudgeted courthouse intercom system, increasing the amount to $26,000 to include an optional paging system. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved resolution to amend salary classification for Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to add addendum to Policy 206 for Coronavirus Response (unanimous)
• Approved resolution in support of increased Adult Protection Services funding (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 budget amendment for Economic Development/Grant Writer Department (5-0)
• Approved unbudgeted courthouse intercom system, amended to $26,000 for AiPhone system with paging (5-0)
• Approved 2021 waste hauler permits for Waste Transport, LLC, Waste Management, and Wabasha Rubbish Removal (unanimous)
• Tabled Quality Air Test for Alma Highway Shop (5-0)
• Approved monthly vendor invoices/vouchers/payroll/funds investment report (5-0)

ADRC Committee

The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) Governing Board will discuss future planning for the Modena meal site and consider reinvestment resolutions for Buffalo and Pepin counties. The board will also review and possibly act on re-appointments of consumer members, potentially entering closed session for personnel matters. Reports on finances and operations will be presented.

• Modena Meal Site future planning
• ADRC Reinvestment Resolution for Buffalo County
• ADRC Reinvestment Resolution for Pepin County
• Re-appointment of Terri Vettrus (Buffalo County Elder Representative)
• Re-appointment of Robert Shutes (Pepin County Elder Representative)

Recycling Committee

The Buffalo County Recycling Committee will meet to review and potentially approve the 2021 proposed budget and per capita fees, discuss a skid steer trade-in arrangement with Lindstrom Equipment, and evaluate single-stream recycling costs. The agenda also includes discussion of interest from non-participant municipalities and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Approval of 2021 proposed budget
• 2021 per capita fee discussion
• Increase of annual skid steer trade-in/purchase with Lindstrom Equipment
• Evaluation of single-stream recycling costs
• Interest from non-participant municipalities

The Buffalo County Recycling Committee approved listing the old broken compactor on the Wisconsin Surplus Auction, with minimum bid set by the director and manager. It tabled updates to the county recycling ordinance and program recycling agreement until the next meeting. The committee also recommended an updated Recycling Program Manager job description, adding a high school diploma requirement, for county review. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved listing old compactor on Wisconsin Surplus Auction (motion carried)
• Tabled county recycling ordinance update to next meeting (motion passed)
• Tabled program recycling agreement update to next meeting (motion passed)
• Recommended updated Recycling Program Manager job description with high school diploma requirement (motion carried)

Miscellaneous Agendas

The Buffalo County Board of Canvassers will meet to canvass the results of the February 16, 2021 Spring Primary Election. The meeting is a procedural step to review and certify the election outcome before adjournment.

• Canvass of February 16, 2021 Spring Primary Election results
• Meeting called to order by County Clerk Roxann M. Halverson
• South entrance is the only courthouse access after 4:30 p.m.

Buffalo/Pepin Community Justice Collaborating Council

The Buffalo/Pepin Criminal Justice Collaborating Council will hold a remote meeting via Zoom on February 17, 2021. The agenda includes public comment, review of minutes and financial reports, updates on reentry and veterans programs, and introduction of a new certified reentry peer specialist. The council will also discuss setting the next meeting date for March 16, 2021.

• Review of January 19, 2020 meeting minutes
• CJCC Financial Report and Community Work Service Report by Ms. Rieck
• MOVING FORWARD Reentry Program and Veterans Special Project updates by Ms. Wood
• Introduction of Jacki Bremer, Certified Reentry Peer Specialist and Recovery Coach/Trainer
• Discussion of next meeting date: Tuesday, March 16, 2021 via Zoom

The Criminal Justice Collaborating Council approved the December 2020 minutes and the financial report showing a balance of $34,525.61. They also accepted the Community Work Service report. The council introduced Jacki Bremer as a Certified Reentry Peer Specialist, funded by a grant ending June 30, 2021, to serve Pepin County jail and CJS participants. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were informational updates.

• Approved December 16, 2020 minutes (motion carried)
• Accepted CJCC financial report with $34,525.61 balance (motion carried)
• Accepted Community Work Service report (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 12:37 p.m. (motion carried)

Miscellaneous Agendas

The Buffalo County Veterans Memorial Committee is meeting publicly on February 11, 2021, at the County Courthouse in Alma. The agenda includes routine items: approving previous minutes, hearing secretary's and treasurer's reports, and discussing upkeep and maintenance of the Veterans Memorial. The meeting is open to the public, with face coverings required for in-person attendance.

• Review/discussion/action on minutes of the previous meeting
• Review/discussion/action on secretary's report
• Review/discussion/action on treasurer's report
• Review/discussion/action on upkeep and maintenance of Veterans Memorial
• Next meeting scheduled for Thursday, February 10, 2022

The Veterans Memorial Committee approved a motion to obtain estimates from a landscaping firm to repair issues at the memorial, including brick deterioration, drainage problems, and cracking. Brick installation is paused until wall repairs are resolved, and the committee will notify those awaiting brick installation. The next meeting is set for April 15, 2021.

• Approved motion to obtain estimates from a landscaping firm for memorial repairs (carried)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting (carried)
• Paused brick installation pending wall repair resolution
• Scheduled next meeting for April 15, 2021 at 2:00 p.m.

Highway Committee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee will meet to consider and act on staffing, equipment, buildings and grounds, roads and bridges, an ATV/UTV ordinance, the 2022 fuel contract, and financial reports. Key decisions include the 2021 construction list, the CTH F bridge replacement, and paver recommendations. The committee may enter closed session to discuss personnel.

• Consideration of 2021 construction list
• CTH F Bridge replacement, 0.7 miles south of CTH D
• Paver recommendations (refurbish vs. replace)
• ATV/UTV ordinance consideration
• 2022 fuel contract

Human Resources Committee

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee will consider several personnel actions, including establishing a wage classification for the newly filled Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer position, recognizing a retiring employee, and modifying sick leave policy for COVID-19 quarantine. The committee will also discuss courthouse public access during the pandemic and may enter closed session for a compensatory time appeal.

• Resolution to amend wage classification to add Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer (2021 budgeted wages & benefits $53,048)
• Resolution recognizing retirement of Pauline (Polly) Glentz, Sheriff's Office Communication/Corrections Officer, after 20 full-time years
• Resolution to add addendum to Policy 206 for COVID-19 emergency paid health leave (up to 80 hours for full-time employees, effective Jan 1–Jun 30, 2021)
• Discussion on comparable counties for union negotiations
• Possible closed session to discuss compensatory time off appeal

Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee

The Buffalo County Land Conservation & Ag and Extension Committee will meet to review and act on several items, including approving 2020 Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims Program crop prices and a damage claim, discussing a perpetual CREP easement with potential conservation cover damage, and considering a letter to the Natural Resources Board regarding a proposed land acquisition. The meeting is open to the public and will be held via Zoom.

• Approve 2020 WDACP crop price for alfalfa hay at $174/ton
• Approve 2020 WDACP damage claim for David Olson (bear damage, $2,545 recommended)
• Discuss perpetual CREP easement (Rud) with potential conservation cover damage during cleanout
• Review letter to Natural Resources Board supporting Xcel Energy land acquisition near Tiffany Wildlife Area
• Review/discuss extension summer intern positions and 4-H program assistant introduction

The committee approved a $174 per ton price for alfalfa lost to bear damage and a $2,545 damage claim (after $500 deductible) for a complete loss of bales. They also approved the summer ag intern, an advisory committee for the land and water resource management plan, a conservation cover replacement plan in a perpetual CREP easement, a $25/day fine for a mining permit violation, and support for DNR acquisition of a railroad bed in Tiffany Bottoms.

• Approved $174/ton price for alfalfa loss (motion carried)
• Approved $2,545 damage claim for complete loss of bales (motion carried)
• Approved summer ag intern (motion carried)
• Approved core group of nominees for Land and Water Resource Management Plan Advisory Committee (motion carried)
• Approved conservation cover replacement plan in perpetual CREP easement (motion carried)
• Approved $25/day fine for non-metallic mining permit violation, increasing to $100/day after 30 days no response (motion carried)
• Approved support for DNR acquisition of railroad bed in Tiffany Bottoms Wildlife Refuge (motion carried)

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to place an advisory referendum on the April 6, 2021 ballot asking whether the Wisconsin legislature should create a nonpartisan procedure for drawing legislative and congressional districts. The resolution directs the Corporation Counsel to prepare a notice and the County Clerk to publish it and send results to state officials. The board will vote on this resolution at its meeting.

• Advisory referendum on nonpartisan redistricting on April 6, 2021 ballot
• Resolution directs Corporation Counsel to prepare notice of referendum
• County Clerk to publish notice and file resolution at least 70 days before election
• Results to be sent to Governor, state legislature, and county associations
• Minimal fiscal impact depending on ballot size

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to authorize the Highway Committee to spend up to $1,110,000 from Highway Department Retained Earnings for equipment purchases approved in the 2021 budget. The resolution was drafted by the Administration Department and reviewed by the Highway and Finance Committees. It requires adherence to the county purchasing policy and competitive bidding, and any changes to the approved purchases would need board approval.

• Authorizes up to $1,110,000 for 2021 highway equipment
• Funds from Highway Department Retained Earnings
• No tax levy impact
• Requires competitive bid process and federal aid compliance
• Changes to budgeted purchases require board approval

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to designate up to $200,000 in CAPX2020 funding for broadband expansion in underserved and unserved areas of the county for calendar year 2021. The resolution also amends the 2021 budget to include this expenditure. The funding is subject to approval by the Public Service Commission and follows a 2020 allocation of $200,000, of which $6,000 was contributed to one approved project.

• Designates up to $200,000.00 for broadband expansion in 2021
• Amends the 2021 budget to include the funding
• Funding subject to Public Service Commission approval
• Follows 2020 allocation of $200,000.00; one project received $6,000.00 county contribution
• Resolution supported by Economic Development and Finance Committees

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution to recognize and honor Janice Priefert upon her retirement after 28 years of full-time service in the Department of Human Services. The resolution commends her service and has no financial impact.

• Resolution recognizing retirement of Janice Priefert
• 28 years of full-time service in Department of Human Services
• No financial impact

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors is considering a resolution requesting that the state increase funding for county child support agencies by $4 million in each year of the 2021-23 Wisconsin budget. The resolution cites rising costs, declining performance, and lost federal funds, and notes that the additional state money would leverage roughly $7.7 million in federal matching funds annually. The board will vote on adopting the resolution and forwarding it to state officials.

• Requests $4 million GPR per year in 2021-23 state budget for child support
• Cites $935 million collected statewide in 2019 and 98,405 health insurance orders
• Notes loss of $4.2 million in federal birth cost recovery funds due to June 2019 rule change
• Mentions Wisconsin's child support ranking fell from 2nd to 5th nationally
• Resolution to be sent to Governor, state legislators, and Wisconsin Counties Association

Buffalo County Resolutions

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors will consider a resolution to amend Policy 503 of the Employee Handbook, which covers disciplinary actions. The changes add language for addressing unsatisfactory work performance and adverse employment actions due to non-performance. The resolution was recommended by the Human Resources Committee and has no anticipated fiscal impact.

• Amends Policy 503 (Disciplinary Actions) to include language on unsatisfactory work performance and adverse employment action due to non-performance
• Adds a new section on Adverse Employment Action Due to Nonperformance, including Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs)
• Resolution has no anticipated financial impact on the 2021 budget

County Board

The Buffalo County Board of Supervisors will consider several resolutions, including designating $200,000 for broadband expansion, supporting increased child support funding, and conducting an advisory referendum on nonpartisan redistricting. The board will also vote on equipment purchases for the Highway Department, confirm appointments for the Economic Development Coordinator and Emergency Management Director, and may enter closed session to discuss broadband plans. A presentation on the Winona Connector Trail and an update on CARES funding are also scheduled.

• Resolution #21-01-05: Designate $200,000 in CAPX2020 funding for broadband expansion
• Resolution #21-01-06: Place advisory referendum on nonpartisan redistricting on April 6, 2021 ballot
• Resolution #21-01-04: Purchase 2021 equipment for Buffalo County Highway Department
• Confirm Steven Schiffli as Economic Development Coordinator & Grant Writer
• Confirm Bruce Fuerbringer as Emergency Management Director/Recycling Director

The Buffalo County Board approved a resolution to place an advisory referendum on the April ballot asking voters whether legislative and congressional redistricting should be done by a nonpartisan procedure. The board also approved resolutions supporting increased child support funding, extending broadband expansion funding, and purchasing highway equipment. Several appointments were confirmed, including Stephen Schiffli as Economic Development Coordinator and Bruce Fuerbringer as Emergency Management Director.

• Approved Resolution #21-01-06 for countywide advisory referendum on nonpartisan redistricting (all in favor)
• Approved Resolution #21-01-02 supporting increased county child support funding (carried)
• Approved Resolution #21-01-05 extending $200,000 broadband expansion funding through 2021 (all in favor)
• Approved Resolution #21-01-04 for 2021 highway equipment purchases within budget (all in favor)
• Approved Resolution #21-01-03 amending employee handbook on disciplinary action (carried)
• Approved Resolution #21-01-01 honoring retirement of Janice Priefert (carried)
• Confirmed appointment of Stephen Schiffli as Economic Development Coordinator & Grant Writer (carried)
• Confirmed appointment of Bruce Fuerbringer as Emergency Management Director and Recycling Director (carried)

Finance Committee

The Buffalo County Finance Committee will review and potentially act on several items, including a resolution supporting increased county child support funding, CARES Act funding for public health, a resolution designating funds for broadband expansion, and approval of solid waste hauler applications. The meeting also includes updates on vaccination plans and election reform, along with routine approval of minutes, invoices, and payroll.

• Resolution in Support of Increased County Child Support Funding
• CARES Act Funding for Public Health
• Resolution to Designate Funding for Buffalo County Broadband Expansion
• Approval of Solid Waste Hauler Applications (2021 permits)
• Monthly Vendor Invoices/Vouchers/Employee Payroll/Funds Investment Report

The Buffalo County Finance Committee approved several resolutions, including one supporting increased state child support funding, a CARES Act funding increase for public health ($431,000), and a resolution to designate funding for broadband expansion. They also approved solid waste hauler permits and monthly invoices. The committee agreed to reimburse departments for COVID-related technology purchases from CARES funds.

• Approved resolution supporting increased county child support funding (unanimous)
• Approved CARES Act funding increase for Public Health to $431,000 (unanimous)
• Approved solid waste hauler permits (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to designate funding for broadband expansion (unanimous)
• Approved monthly vendor invoices, vouchers, payroll, and investment report (unanimous)
• Agreed to reimburse departments for COVID-related technology purchases from CARES funds

Economic Development Committee

The Buffalo County Economic Development Committee will meet to review and potentially act on its 2021 budget, first-quarter objectives, and meeting dates. Members will also discuss updates on the Flyway Trail phases, a resolution supporting funding for the Great River State Trail – Winona Connector, a resolution designating 2021 funding for county broadband expansion, and a CDBG grant for a Mondovi municipal project. Public comments are invited on agenda items.

• 2021 Budget Update
• Update on Phase I and Phase II of the Flyway Trail
• Resolution to Support Funding for the Great River State Trail – Winona Connector (Phase II)
• Resolution to Designate 2021 funding for Buffalo County Broadband Expansion
• CDBG Grant, Mondovi Municipal Project

Local Emergency Planning Committee

The Buffalo County Local Emergency Planning Committee is meeting to review routine reports and take action on items including its financial report, designation of the state as compliance inspector, and strategic plan elements. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major new proposals or public hearings listed.

• Review/action on LEPC financial report
• Designation of state as LEPC compliance inspector
• Review of strategic plan required elements
• Spill report and emergency management director's report
• Citizen comments on posted agenda items

The Buffalo County Local Emergency Planning Committee approved the State as the LEPC Compliance Inspector and approved the Strategic Plan Required Elements, with contact info to be added after the new Emergency Management Director is appointed. The committee also reviewed the financial report, noted no spills, and heard updates on COVID vaccine rollout and member reports.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting
• Approved State as LEPC Compliance Inspector
• Approved Strategic Plan Required Elements (with contact info to be added later)

Buffalo/Pepin Community Justice Collaborating Council

The Buffalo/Pepin Criminal Justice Collaborating Council is meeting remotely to review routine reports and updates, including financials, community work service, the Moving Forward Reentry Program, and a veterans special project. They will also discuss the 2021 TAD grant award and system mapping, and set future meeting dates. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or public hearings.

• Review of December 2020 meeting minutes
• CJCC Financial Report and Community Work Service Report by Ms. Rieck
• Moving Forward Reentry Program update by Ms. Wood
• Veterans Special Project update by Ms. Wood
• TAD Grant Award 2021 discussion

The Criminal Justice Collaborating Council approved a $5,000 payment to the CJS Department from Pepin County's 2021 budget, and accepted the financial report as presented. The council also approved the Community Work Service report and amended the December 2020 minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were reports and discussions.

• Approved $5,000 payment to CJS Department (motion carried)
• Accepted financial report as presented (motion carried)
• Approved Community Work Service report as presented (motion carried)
• Amended December 16, 2020 minutes (motion carried)

Miscellaneous Agendas

The Buffalo County Unit of the Wisconsin Towns Association will hold an in-person meeting on Monday, January 18, 2021, at 7:00 pm in the Buffalo County Courthouse County Board Room in Alma. The agenda includes reports from legislators and WTA directors, a presentation on a UTV/ATV referendum, and discussion of a land division ordinance. Attendees are asked to follow CDC guidelines and wear face coverings.

• Presentation by County Representative Sonya Hansen on UTV and ATV referendum update
• Discussion of final draft of Land Division Ordinance
• Reports from WTA Directors Steve Dickinsen and Sharon Folcey
• In-person meeting with COVID-19 precautions

Highway Safety Commission

The Buffalo County Highway Safety Commission will meet to approve minutes, hear updates from the Sheriff, Highway Department, and other representatives, and discuss a no-parking sign at Highway 35/Great River Road. The meeting also includes updates from WisDOT and a solicitation for the Highway Safety Plan.

• Discussion of no parking sign at Highway 35/Great River Road
• Sheriff's Office update by Sheriff Schmidtknecht
• Highway Department update by Kelly Johnston
• WisDOT updates and Highway Safety Plan solicitation
• Approval of October 2020 minutes

The Buffalo County Highway Safety Commission met on January 14, 2021, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. Members discussed 2020 crash statistics (248 total crashes, 4 fatalities, 61 injury crashes), an increase in OWIs, and a doubling of 100+ MPH speeding contacts by the State Patrol. No formal decisions were made beyond approving minutes and adjourning.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion by Haigh, second by Fuerbringer)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:43pm (motion by Schmidtknecht, second by Tumaniec)

Highway Committee

The Buffalo County Highway Committee will meet to consider staffing matters, including medical leave and state backups, and equipment purchases such as a paver, 2021 truck order, and excavator quotations. They will also review construction plans, discuss an ATV/UTV ordinance, and act on fuel contracts and the financial report. The agenda includes public comments and approval of vouchers.

• Consideration of medical leave for two staff members and two state backups
• Decision on purchasing a new vs. old paver and 2021 truck order
• Review of excavator quotations
• Discussion of ATV/UTV ad hoc committee ordinance
• Action on fuel contracts

The Buffalo County Highway Committee approved the purchase of a 2021 Kobelco Track Excavator with attachments from Miller-Bradford & Risberg for $132,050, subject to approval of the 2021 equipment resolution by the County Board. The committee tabled a decision on whether to refurbish or replace the 22-year-old paver for an additional month to gather more information. Other actions included approving previous meeting minutes and monthly vouchers, and discussing staffing, fuel bids, and ATV/UTV sign plans.

• Approved $132,050 purchase of 2021 Kobelco Track Excavator from Miller-Bradford & Risberg (5-0)
• Tabled paver refurbishment/replacement decision for one month to gather more information
• Approved minutes of previous meeting including December 2020 minutes (5-0)
• Approved monthly vouchers as presented (5-0)
• Consensus to move forward with getting fuel bids for 2022
• Consensus to include facility tours in spring road tour, time permitting

Law Enforcement & Emergency Management Committee

The Law Enforcement/Emergency Management Committee will review and vote on extending 80 hours of FFCRA COVID leave for Sheriff's Office staff, approve December bills paid in January totaling $47,063.21, and consider a contract with the Mississippi River Regional Planning Commission to update the County's Multi-Hazards Mitigation Plan for 2021-2025. The committee will also review year-end financials and monthly reports.

• Extend 80 hours FFCRA COVID leave for Sheriff's Office staff
• Approve December bills paid in January totaling $47,063.21
• Contract with Mississippi River Regional Planning Commission for Multi-Hazards Mitigation Plan update
• Review preliminary 2020 year-end financials for Law Enforcement/Jail
• Staff retirement discussion

The committee voted to request the HR Committee consider reinstating 80 hours of paid COVID-19 leave for sheriff's office personnel who cannot work from home, effective January 1, 2021, similar to expired FFCRA guidelines. It also approved backfilling a retiring communications/corrections officer position, accepted December bills and preliminary 2020 financials, and approved a contract with the Mississippi River Regional Planning Commission for the Multi-Hazards Mitigation Plan update. No public comments were made, and one member was excused.

• Approved motion to request HR Committee reinstate 80 hours COVID leave for sheriff's staff (4-0, Nelson excused)
• Approved backfilling budgeted communications/corrections officer position (3-0, Nelson excused)
• Accepted December law enforcement bills as presented
• Accepted preliminary 2020 year-end financials for law enforcement/jail
• Approved contract with MRRPC for Multi-Hazards Mitigation Plan 2021-2025 (4-0, Nelson excused)

Human Resources Committee

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee will review and possibly act on amendments to Policy 503 (Disciplinary Actions), updates on the Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer position, and a revised return-to-work plan for reopening the courthouse. It will also consider allowing use of the Personal Sick Leave Bank for COVID-19 quarantine or isolation. The meeting is open to the public, though portions may be closed.

• Resolution to amend Policy 503 – Disciplinary Actions
• Update on Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer position
• Review of return-to-work plan and courthouse reopening
• Review of Policy 208 – sick leave for COVID-19 quarantine/isolation
• Committee meeting calendar dates

The Buffalo County Human Resources Committee approved several actions, including recommending to the County Board the confirmation of Stephen Schiffli as Economic Development Coordinator/Grant Writer and Bruce Fuerbringer as Emergency Management/Recycling Director/Solid Waste Manager. The committee also approved amending Employee Handbook Policy 503 on disciplinary actions, adopted the 2021 meeting calendar with an October 4 change, and voted to keep the courthouse open by appointment only, with the committee as the decision-making authority for reopening. A motion to extend temporary telecommuting agreements due to COVID-19 to April 12, 2021 was approved, and a review of Policy 208 on sick leave for COVID-19 quarantine was tabled pending further guidance.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting as sent
• Approved resolution to amend Policy 503 (Disciplinary Actions) to include adverse employment action due to nonperformance
• Approved 2021 meeting calendar with October meeting changed to October 4
• Recommended to County Board confirmation of Stephen Schiffli and Bruce Fuerbringer for positions
• Approved no changes to current employee return-to-work plan
• Recommended to County Board to continue services by appointment only and authorize committee to decide courthouse reopening
• Approved extension of temporary telecommuting agreements to April 12, 2021
• Tabled review of Policy 208 (PSLB for COVID-19 quarantine) pending further direction