Sawyer County public meetings in 2022

Board of Supervisors

The Sawyer County Board of Supervisors will consider ratifying an emergency disaster declaration for a winter storm that began December 14, 2022, causing downed trees and powerlines. The board will also discuss and possibly approve the 2023 personnel plan with wage adjustments, a county investment policy, and a contract signing authority resolution. A closed session is scheduled to discuss Namekagon Transit.

• Ratification of emergency disaster declaration for winter storm of December 14-15, 2022
• 2023 Personnel Plan with pay grid and wage adjustments
• Resolution to establish a County Investment Policy
• Resolution to approve Tribal Law Enforcement Grant
• Appointment of John Froemel as Ambulance Director/Medical Examiner

The Board of Supervisors approved a disaster declaration to recover storm cleanup costs and established a new county investment policy. They also appointed a new Ambulance Director/Medical Examiner and approved a 2% to 3% wage increase for non-represented employees for 2023.

• Approved Disaster Declaration Resolution for storm cleanup costs (10-0)
• Appointed John Froemel as Ambulance Director/Medical Examiner (10-0)
• Approved $38,000 Tribal Law Enforcement Grant Resolution for animal control (10-0)
• Approved resolution for county signatory authority (10-0)
• Approved Resolution Establishing a County Investment Policy and related amendment (10-0)
• Approved 2023 Employee Wages and Personnel for non-represented employees (10-0)
• Approved Municode ordinance (10-0)
• Approved minutes of the November 15th meeting (carried without negative vote)

Zoning Committee

The Sawyer County Zoning Committee is holding public hearings and discussions on several conditional use permit applications, including an accessory structure in Radisson, a marina with convenience store and bait sales in Edgewater, and a non-metallic mineral extraction site in Round Lake. The committee will also discuss a possible ordinance amendment for multi-dwelling development and resort definitions.

• CUP #22-033: Mason & Laura Hurd request a 14' x 40' accessory structure on vacant agricultural land in the Town of Radisson.
• CUP #22-005 (amended): Joshua O'Rouke & Joseph O'Rourke request a recreational sales and marina building (max 1,200 sq ft) with convenience store and bait sales in the Town of Edgewater.
• CUP #22-026 (amended): Travis Butterfield requests a non-metallic mineral extraction site including rock crusher on 10.57 acres of Forestry One (F-1) zoned land in the Town of Round Lake.
• CUP #22-026 Reclamation Plan: Travis Butterfield requests a reclamation plan for the non-metallic mineral open pit in the Town of Round Lake.
• Discussion of an ordinance amendment for multi-dwelling development and definition of a resort, with possible action to send to towns.

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

The Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council will discuss and possibly act on a by-laws update to increase membership from 13-15 members. They will also receive a jail report update and hear updates on truancy, youth justice, mental health, medication-assisted therapy, possible housing funding, and health and human services.

• Discussion and possible action on by-laws update to increase membership from 13-15 members
• Jail report update with current incarceration statistics
• Truancy update
• Possible housing funding update from Katie Belinger
• Medication-assisted therapy at the LCO Recovery Clinic update

The council accepted the minutes from the November 9, 2022 meeting. Members received reports on jail capacity, TAD funding for a treatment court, and truancy procedures. No other substantive votes were taken.

• Approved November 9, 2022 meeting minutes

Administration Committee

The Sawyer County Administration Committee will discuss and possibly take action on implementing a paid time off (PTO) benefit, replacing the current vacation/sick leave policy. The committee will also consider adopting an updated Municode ordinance, a tribal law enforcement assistance grant application, and new investment and contract signing policies. A closed session is scheduled for union contract negotiations and wages.

• Consider implementing paid time off (PTO) benefit (discussion and possible action)
• Tribal Law Enforcement Assistance Grant application (discussion and possible action)
• Investment Policy (discussion and possible action)
• Contract Signing and Review policy (discussion and possible action)
• Closed session for union contract negotiations and wages

The committee approved an ordinance enacting a new county code and a resolution regarding signatory authority for contracts. Members also approved a 2% pay increase for staff effective January 1 and a 1% increase in July. A proposal to implement a Paid Time Off (PTO) benefit was postponed.

• Approved ordinance enacting a new county code and forwarded to County Board (5-0)
• Approved Tribal Law Enforcement Assistance Grant application (5-0)
• Approved addendum naming Finance Committee as the Investment Committee (5-0)
• Approved Resolution Approving County Signatory Authority and forwarded to County Board (5-0)
• Postponed implementation of PTO benefit (5-0)
• Approved recommended 2% staff pay increase Jan 1 and 1% in July for County Board (5-0)
• Approved November 10, 2022 meeting minutes

Finance Committee

The Sawyer County Finance Committee will meet to discuss and possibly act on the 2022 budget update, a second courtroom expense, banking services for 2023-2025, the county investment policy, and a Native American property taxation update. The committee will also enter closed session to deliberate 2023 wages and collective bargaining strategy.

• Closed session for 2023 wages and collective bargaining strategy discussion
• Second courtroom expense discussion and possible action
• 2023-2025 banking services request for information update
• Consideration of county investment policy
• Native American property taxation update from US Court of Appeals decision

The committee approved a new bank for county services and a resolution to establish a County Investment Policy. It also recommended a phased staff pay increase for the full Board to consider.

• Approved Frandsen Bank for 2023-2025 banking services (carried without negative vote)
• Approved Resolution Establishing a County Investment Policy and forwarded to County Board (5-0)
• Approved 2% staff raise in January and 1% in July and forwarded to full Board (5-0)
• Approved minutes of the November 10, 2022, meeting (carried without negative vote)

Public Works Committee

The Sawyer County Public Works Committee will discuss and possibly take action on extending the speed zone on CTH CC and updating the ATV/UTV ordinance. The committee will also receive reports on the airport, highway, and courtroom remodeling projects. A closed session is scheduled to discuss the Highway Commissioner's employment.

• CTH CC Speed Zone Extension (discussion and possible action)
• ATV/UTV Ordinance Update (discussion and possible action)
• 2023 Airport Fee Update (discussion and possible action)
• Highway Commissioner Closed Session (employment, promotion, compensation or performance evaluation)
• Courtroom Remodeling Update from Miron Construction

The committee approved the minutes from the November 9, 2022, meeting. Members discussed airport fee updates and proposed changes to the ATV/UTV ordinance, but no formal actions were taken on these items. The committee entered a closed session to discuss public employee personnel matters.

• Approved November 9, 2022, meeting minutes (carried without negative vote)
• Entered closed session for personnel matters (5-0)
• Returned to open session (passed without negative vote)

Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee

The Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee will receive updates from the Forestry, Zoning/Conservation, and Land Records departments. No major decisions or public hearings are scheduled; the agenda consists primarily of routine reports and discussion items.

• Recreational trails report (motorized and non-motorized)
• County forestry report with November timber revenue of $1,460,318.84
• Conservation department update including tree sale, poster contest, and Price Dam repair
• USDA and LCO tribal reports

Health & Human Services Board

The Sawyer County Health and Human Services Board will receive updates and reports on adult long-term care, behavioral health, child protective services, youth justice, economic support, public health, and fiscal performance. The board will also consider approval of minutes from the previous meeting and hear public comments.

• Budget Performance Report through October 31, 2022
• Behavioral Health Department Programs Report
• Child Protective Services Report for December 2022
• Town of Round Lake Ground Water Study summary
• Purchased Services Recap through October 2022

The board approved the minutes from the October 11, 2022, meeting. The remainder of the meeting consisted of written reports from various departments and updates on public health and groundwater studies.

• Approved October 11, 2022 meeting minutes (carried without negative vote)

Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee

The Sawyer County Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee is meeting to receive updates from county departments and affiliated organizations. Items include reports from the Agricultural Fair Association, UW-Extension, Hayward Lakes VCB, Northwest Regional Planning Commission, Economic Development Corporation, libraries, and trail committees. No binding votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is primarily informational.

• Hayward Lakes VCB report details ATV promotion spending of $5,200 annually and distribution of over 3,000 maps
• Winter Public Library reports Book Giving Tree program provided books to 126 youth in 2021
• Sherman & Ruth Weiss Community Library applying for grants including up to $1,000 for StoryWalk books and $3,000 for summer reading
• Library Foundation reducing annual gift to library by approximately $5,000 in 2023 due to market conditions
• Agricultural Fair Association reports 2023 fair dates set for August 17-20

The committee approved the minutes from the September 6, 2022, meeting. The remainder of the meeting consisted of reports regarding 4-H services, tourism marketing, library grants, and trail usage.

• Approved minutes of the September 6, 2022, meeting

Public Safety Committee

The Sawyer County Public Safety Committee will discuss and possibly act on adjusting department and position duties for Emergency Management, Ambulance, and Medical Examiner services in 2023. Options include establishing an Emergency Management/Communications position within the Sheriff's Department and creating a separate Emergency Services Department for Ambulance and Medical Examiner. The committee will also consider appointments for Ambulance Director, Medical Examiner, and Emergency Management Director.

• Discussion and possible action on establishing an Emergency Management/Communications position within the Sheriff's Department
• Discussion and possible action on establishing a separate Emergency Services Department for Ambulance and Medical Examiner
• Discussion and possible action on appointments for Ambulance Director, Medical Examiner, and Emergency Management Director
• Discussion and possible action on a Child Support MOU with DCF & LCO
• Discussion and possible action on a Tribal Law Enforcement Grant update

The committee approved a resolution to sponsor a Tribal Animal Control program application and an MOU with DCF & LCO. It also appointed John Froemel as the Ambulance Director and Medical Examiner. The Sheriff's Department reported plans to establish a new detective and dispatcher position.

• Approved resolution to sponsor Tribal Animal Control program application (4-0)
• Approved MOU with DCF & LCO regarding payments and collections (4-0)
• Appointed John Froemel as Ambulance Director and Medical Examiner (4-0)
• Approved minutes from November 3 meeting

Zoning Committee

The Zoning Committee will hold a public hearing and vote on a conditional use permit for Kubarek Auction & Estate Services to operate an online auction preview and pickup site on agricultural land in the Town of Lenroot. It will also discuss and possibly vote on a postponed rezone and conditional use applications for a non-metallic mineral extraction site on 39.85 acres in the Town of Round Lake. Additionally, the committee will discuss a proposed ordinance amendment for multi-dwelling development and the definition of a resort, and vote on a motion from the previous meeting regarding CUP #22-005.

• Public hearing and action on CUP #22-032 for Kubarek Auction & Estate Services in the Town of Lenroot for an online auction item preview and pickup site
• Postponed public hearing and action on RZN #22-012 and CUP #22-026 for Travis Butterfield in the Town of Round Lake for non-metallic mineral extraction on 39.85 acres
• Discussion and possible action on a proposed ordinance amendment for multi-dwelling development and resort definition
• Vote on a motion from the October 21, 2022 meeting regarding CUP #22-005
• Closed session to confer with legal counsel regarding the Pank Road Property litigation

The committee approved a conditional use permit for an auction business in the Town of Lenroot and voted to move forward with ordinance amendments regarding multi-dwelling developments. Several other applications were postponed or scheduled for re-hearing in December.

• Approved CUP #22-032 for Kubarek Auction & Estate Services LLC (4-0)
• Approved ordinance amendments for multi-dwelling development and resort definitions (4-0)
• Postponed RZN #22-012 and CUP #22-026 for Travis Butterfield until December (All in favor)
• Approved wiping previous conditions for CUP #22-005 (O’Rouke) to be re-heard in December (4-0)
• Approved keeping the Zoning Ordinance in the Municode appendix (4-0)
• Approved October 21, 2022 minutes (All in favor)

Board of Supervisors

The Sawyer County Board of Supervisors will discuss and possibly adopt the 2023 county budget, including the 2022 property tax levy to be collected in 2023, the 2023 compensation plan, authorized employee count, fee schedule, and capital improvement plan. The board will also consider two zone district map amendments, a cooperative tribal law enforcement grant, a carbon marketing and development agreement, and a $320,000 state trust fund loan application.

• Resolution to adopt the 2023 Sawyer County Budget and 2022 Property Tax Levy to be collected in 2023
• Zone District Map Amendment RZN #22-014 and RZN #22-015
• Cooperative Tribal Law Enforcement Grant - Resolution and Agreement
• Carbon Marketing and Development Agreement (discussion and possible action)
• Resolution authorizing State Trust Fund Loan application for $320,000

The Board approved the 2023 budget and a resolution for a $320,000 State Trust Fund loan application. Members also approved a Carbon Marketing and Development Grant and two zoning rezone requests.

• Approved 2023 budget as presented (12-1)
• Denied budget amendment to fund Hayward Library and Namekegon transit (5-8)
• Approved rezone request #22-014 for Seth and Ashley Zesiger (voice vote)
• Approved rezone request #22-015 for Knapmiller Family LLC (voice vote)
• Approved Resolution Approving Carbon Marketing and Development Grant (13-0)
• Accepted Resolution 2022 Approving Carbon Marketing and Development Grant (11-1)
• Approved Resolution Authorizing State Trust Fund Loan Application for $320,000 (12-1)
• Approved October 20th meeting minutes (voice vote)

Administration Committee

The Sawyer County Administration Committee will discuss and possibly adopt a Municode ordinance update, consider implementing paid time off for employees, and review 2023 budget updates. The committee will also go into closed session for union contract negotiations and wages.

• Discussion and possible action on Municode ordinance update (pages 12-694)
• Consideration of implementing paid time off for employees
• Closed session for union contract negotiations and wages under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e)
• 2023 budget updates including courthouse fees payments draft
• Veterans Service Department report noting $540,126.57 in retroactive payments

The committee approved the minutes from the October 13, 2022, meeting. No action was taken regarding the Municode version or the proposed shift to a Paid Time Off (PTO) policy. The committee entered and exited a closed session regarding union contract negotiations with no action taken.

• Approved October 13, 2022, meeting minutes (carried without negative vote)
• Tabled Municode version approval to December agenda
• Entered closed session for union contract negotiations (4-0)
• Exited closed session with no action taken

Finance Committee

The Sawyer County Finance Committee will discuss and possibly adopt the 2023 county budget, including a proposed property tax levy of $14,000,698 and a tax rate of $3.09 per $1,000 of assessed value. The committee will also consider a resolution to adopt the 2023 compensation plan, authorized employees, fee schedule, and capital improvement plan. Other agenda items include an update on the 2021 audit, a request from Waldo, analysis of ambulance billings, courtroom construction update, and American Rescue Plan Act funding update.

• Resolution to adopt 2023 budget with $14,000,698 tax levy and $3.09 tax rate
• Discussion and possible action on State Trust Fund loan and resolution
• Update on 2021 audit presentation
• Analysis of ambulance billings
• Update on courtroom construction

The committee adopted the 2023 Sawyer County Budget and approved a resolution to apply for a $320,000 State Trust Fund Loan for forest land purchase. A funding request from WALDO was denied. The committee also reviewed the 2021 audit and courtroom construction progress.

• Adopted 2023 Sawyer County Budget (5-0)
• Approved resolution for $320,000 State Trust Fund Loan (5-0)
• Denied WALDO request for $22,800 (carried without negative vote)
• Approved minutes of October 13, 2022 meeting (carried without negative vote)

Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee

The Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee will consider approval of November 2022 timber sale bids, discuss a carbon credit update in closed session, and review a 2023 courthouse fees proposal. The agenda also includes discussion of two special events and a preference-to-previous-owner item.

• Timber sale bid approval for November 2022 (discussion and possible action)
• Carbon credit update with closed session for negotiating public property or investment matters
• 2023 courthouse fees update for budget (pages 30-57)
• CAMBA Global Fat Bike Day Celebration – December 3, 2022 (discussion and possible action)
• Preference to previous owner (discussion and possible action, pages 6-14)

The Committee approved a carbon tax proposal to be reviewed by legal counsel and the County Board. It also approved a resolution to apply for a grant to control aquatic invasive species and accepted timber sale bids. Two event requests and a property tax payment offer were also approved.

• Approved carbon tax proposal and forwarded to legal counsel and County Board (5-0)
• Approved resolution to apply for Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Program
• Accepted timber sale bids and forwarded to County Board
• Approved CAMBA Global Fat Bike Day Celebration request
• Approved Hayward Lions Pre-Birkie request
• Accepted offer of payment for Venturella property back taxes
• Approved September 7, 2022 meeting minutes

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

The Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council will elect a vice chair, review and possibly update its bylaws, and receive a housing possibilities update from Katie B. The council will also hear community services updates and consider approval of minutes from the previous meeting.

• Election of Vice Chair (discussion and possible action)
• Bylaws review and update, including proposed amendments from October 2022
• Housing possibilities update from Katie B
• Community services updates
• Approval of draft minutes from October 12, 2022 meeting

The council elected a new Vice Chair and approved the minutes from the October 12, 2022 meeting. No action was taken on proposed by-law changes to increase membership because a three-fourths majority was not present.

• Approved October 12, 2022 meeting minutes (carried without negative vote)
• Elected Elaine Smith as Vice Chair (unanimous vote)
• Tabled by-laws change to increase membership from 13 to 15 (insufficient quorum)

Public Works Committee

The Sawyer County Public Works Committee will discuss and possibly act on the 2023 budget, ATV/UTV highway speed limits, and an ATV/UTV ordinance update. They will also receive reports on maintenance, the airport, and the courtroom remodeling project. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and public comment.

• Discussion and possible action on 2023 budget update (attachments include draft fee schedule)
• Discussion and possible action on highway speed limits for ATV/UTV
• Discussion and possible action on ATV/UTV Ordinance Update
• Courtroom remodeling update with October 2022 owner monthly report
• Maintenance Department report noting staffing challenges and courthouse fleet vehicle delays

The committee updated the ATV/UTV ordinance renewal and request dates and reduced a specific highway speed limit. The board also approved the minutes from the October 12, 2022, meeting.

• Approved minutes of October 12, 2022, meeting
• Changed ATV/UTV renewal and request date to April and request date to August
• Reduced speed limit from 55 to 45 mph from Badger Bay to Chappel Road

Health & Human Services Board

The Sawyer County Health and Human Services Board will consider approval of previous meeting minutes, receive committee and department reports, and discuss the 2023 budget and courthouse fee updates. A possible action item is the 161 Agreement with the Lac Courte Oreilles tribe regarding child protective services.

• Discussion and possible action on the 161 Agreement with LCO for child protective services
• Courthouse fees update for the 2023 budget
• Budget performance report through September 30, 2022
• Children's Long-Term Support (CLTS) Program overview
• Behavioral Health Department programs report

Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee

The Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee will consider a 2023 budget update that includes a recommended $10,000 cut to the Sherman & Ruth Weiss Community Library's county funding, reducing it from $210,000 to $200,000. The library director reports that the cut, combined with the loss of a $15,000 annual donation and a one-time $10,000 matching gift, would create a $15,000 deficit despite a recent $20,000 donation. The committee will also receive reports from the Agricultural Fair Association, UW-Extension, the Hayward Lakes VCB, the Northwest Regional Planning Commission, the Economic Development Corporation, and trail committees.

• Courthouse fees update for 2023 budget (pages 14-41)
• Hayward Lakes VCB reports $89,833 state grant for silent sport promotion and $15,712 Destination Market Development Grant
• LCO Placemaking workshop scheduled for Nov. 12 at Big Fish Golf Club
• Library director reports 130 attendees at Halloween Party & Stuffie Sleepover
• Motorized and non-motorized trail reports, including ATV master plan update

The committee approved the minutes from the September 6, 2022, meeting. The remainder of the meeting consisted of reports regarding 4-H services, tourism publications, business grants, library funding, the county fair, and trail usage.

• Approved September 6, 2022, meeting minutes (carried without negative vote)

Public Safety Committee

The Sawyer County Public Safety Committee will receive reports from the Circuit Court, Clerk of Court, District Attorney, Sheriff, Child Support, Coroner, and Emergency Management departments. They will discuss and possibly take action on a Tribal Law Enforcement Grant, a Child Support MOU with DCF and LCO, and the appointment of an Emergency Management/Ambulance Director. The committee will also review a courthouse fees update for the 2023 budget.

• Tribal Law Enforcement Grant (discussion and possible action)
• Child Support MOU with DCF & LCO (discussion and possible action)
• Appointment of Emergency Management/Ambulance Director (discussion and possible action)
• Courthouse fees update for 2023 budget
• Update on use of electronic bracelets

The committee approved the appointment of John Froemel to the position of Emergency Management/Ambulance Director and forwarded the decision to the County Board. Other items, including a Child Support MOU, were deferred to the December meeting.

• Approved appointment of John Froemel as Emergency Management/Ambulance Director (passed without negative vote)
• Approved October 6, 2022, meeting minutes (passed without negative vote)

Zoning Committee

The committee will consider several land-use requests including property rezoning, a seasonal RV park development, and kayak rentals. The meeting also includes discussions regarding sawmill operations and multi-dwelling developments.

• Rezoning 80 acres from Forestry One to Agricultural One in the Town of Meteor
• Rezoning 4.85 acres for recreational vehicle storage in the Town of Edgewater
• Conditional use permit for a camper deck up to 240 square feet in the Town of Couderay
• Conditional use permit for kayak rentals and a private park in the Town of Edgewater
• Conditional use permit for an 84-site seasonal RV Park/Campground in the Town of Lenroot

The Sawyer County Zoning Committee denied a conditional use permit for a seasonal RV park and campground with 84 sites in Lenroot Township, citing significant damage to property values, ecology, traffic, and incompatibility with the comprehensive plan. The vote was 4-1. The committee also approved three other applications: a rezone for pasture land in Meteor, a rezone for RV storage in Edgewater, and a conditional use permit for a deck in Couderay, all unanimously.

• Denied CUP #22-028 for 84-site RV park/campground in Lenroot Township (4-1)
• Approved RZN #22-014 rezone of 80 acres from Forestry to Agricultural in Meteor (5-0)
• Approved CUP #22-015 rezone of 4.85 acres to Commercial for RV storage in Edgewater (5-0)
• Approved CUP #22-030 for a 240 sq ft deck for camper in Couderay with conditions (5-0)
• Approved CUP #22-031 for kayak rental and private park in Edgewater with conditions (5-0)
• Discussed potential ordinance amendment for sawmill operations in RR-2 zone
• Discussed ordinance amendment for multiple primary dwellings on one lot
• Tabled discussion of CUP #22-005 O'Rourke to December

Board of Supervisors

The Sawyer County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on the proposed 2023 budget, followed by discussion and possible action. The agenda also includes several committee reports and potential decisions on a forest land purchase, jail staffing compensation, and zoning map amendments.

• Public hearing on 2023 budget with total General Fund expenditures of $18,195,531
• Consider forest land purchase from Richard & Denise Cooper: 40.00 acres and 44.16 acres in Town of Hayward
• Discussion and possible action on jail staffing and compensation
• Zone district map amendments RZN #22-011 and RZN #22-013
• Appointments to NWREDF Board and Ethics Committee

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on three variance applications. Two requests seek reduced road and property line setbacks for new dwellings and a garage. A third request asks to build a garage closer to a lake and private road, plus to construct a primary dwelling on an outlot that was not originally designated as a building site. The board will also approve prior meeting minutes and set 2023 meeting dates.

• VAR #22-005: Request to build a 20'x20' primary dwelling 55' from Chippewa Flowage Road centerline (requires 63') and to build on an outlot without stated building intent (Joe Salter & James Scheffler, Town of Ojibwa)
• VAR #22-006: Request to build a primary dwelling 40' from Brecke Lane centerline (requires 63') and 10' from rear property line (requires 40'), plus a detached garage 55' from centerline and 10' from rear line (Thomas & Carolyn Ogle, Town of Radisson)
• VAR #22-007: Request to build a detached garage 27.5' from Windigo Lake's ordinary high-water mark (requires 75') and 10' from a private road easement centerline (requires 30') (Frank & Diane Dowell, Town of Bass Lake)
• Approval of July 19, 2022 meeting minutes
• Approval of 2023 meeting dates

Administration Committee

The Sawyer County Administration Committee will discuss and possibly act on an advisory referendum to prohibit private funding for election administration, consider a quote for a Meridia electronic voting system, and review a jail compensation and staffing update. The meeting also includes updates on the 2023 budget, IT, HR, and veterans services.

• Advisory referendum on prohibiting outside funding sources for elections
• Meridia electronic voting system quote for $1,595
• Jail compensation and staffing update
• Municode ordinance update
• 2023 budget update

Finance Committee

The committee will discuss and possibly act on jail staffing and compensation, a closed-session forest land purchase proposal, and a 2023 budget update. The proposed 2023 budget totals $42.8 million with a property tax levy of $14 million, a 7.34% increase from 2022. The budget includes two new Sheriff's Department positions and a 3% salary increase for deputies.

• Discussion and possible action on jail staffing and compensation
• Closed session to consider forest land purchase proposal: Richard & Denise Cooper, 40.00 acres (NESW Section 18 T41N R8W) and 44.16 acres (FRAC NWSW Section 18 T41N R8W), Town of Hayward
• 2023 budget update: proposed total expenditures $42,827,685, property tax levy $14,000,698 (7.34% increase), levy rate $3.09 per $1,000 valuation (down from $3.26)
• Proposed 2023 General Fund expenditures $18,195,531 (9.04% increase from 2022), including $6,358,770 for Sheriff and $3,104,282 for Ambulance Service
• Net new construction at 1.169% ($120,000), highest in 13 years; sales tax revenue on strong upward trajectory

The committee approved a proposal to increase jail wages for 2023 to attract applicants, effective immediately for advertising. It also approved a $316,500 land purchase from Richard and Denise Cooper, surrounded by county land, and forwarded it to the County Board for financing. The 2023 budget update showed a proposed levy of $14,000,698 and a -3.61% rate adjustment.

• Approved jail wage increase for 2023 to address staffing shortages (unanimous)
• Approved $316,500 forest land purchase from Richard and Denise Cooper, forwarded to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 8, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Public Works Committee

The committee will discuss the 2023 budgets for Highways and Public Works, including a capital summary. Members will also consider ATV/UTV route requests and an update to the related ordinance.

• ATV/UTV route requests for Cty Rd G (Pydo), Cty Rd F (Alliance), and Buresh route
• Discussion and possible action on the ATV/UTV Ordinance update
• 2023 Budget updates for Highway and Public Works
• Lease renewal consideration for Northwest Counseling & Guidance Clinic
• Courtroom remodeling update based on September 2022 owner report

The Public Works Committee approved three ATV/UTV route requests, including a two-mile stretch on County Rd G connecting the Towns of Ojibwa and Winter, a section on Hwy F (Buresh route), and a route from Little Sissabagama Rd to Chapel Rd. The committee also approved a one-year lease renewal for Northwest Journey Counseling with a 5% rent increase. The ATV/UTV ordinance update remains under legal review with comments requested from municipalities and the Tribal Governing Board.

• Approved ATV/UTV route on County Rd G (two-mile connection) (unanimous)
• Approved Buresh ATV/UTV route on Hwy F (unanimous)
• Approved ATV/UTV route from Little Sissabagama Rd to Chapel Rd (unanimous)
• Approved one-year lease renewal for Northwest Journey Counseling with 5% increase (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 7, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee

The Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee will discuss the 2023 budget and 2022 crop prices. The body is also scheduled to hold closed sessions regarding trail rights-of-way, carbon credits, and specific forest land purchase proposals.

• Proposed purchase of 40.00 acres from Richard & Denise Cooper and 44.16 acres from FRAC in the Town of Hayward
• Discussion and possible action on the 2023 Land Water Forest Resources budget
• Review of 2022 Crop Prices and 2022 Damage Assessment Deadline
• Discussion of 2023 Wildlife Damage budget
• Closed session regarding carbon credit updates

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

The Criminal Justice Coordinating Council will review its bylaws regarding membership and sub-committees. The meeting also includes a presentation on community needs and opioid funds from Public Health.

• By laws review & update (Membership & Sub-Committees)
• Presentation by Public Health regarding community needs and opioid funds
• 2023 budget update discussion

Health & Human Services Board

The Health and Human Services Board will discuss the 2023 budget for the Senior Resource Center and a DOT grant application. The meeting also includes reports on behavioral health, child protective services, and public health.

• Resolution authorizing a DOT grant application for specialized transportation services
• $15,978 minimum local match required for the 2023 DOT grant
• $226,000 requested for the 2023 Senior Resource Center budget
• Discussion of the 2023 HHS Senior Resource Center budget

The Sawyer County Health and Human Services Committee approved a resolution for the 2022 85.21 grant for the Senior Resource Center after a public hearing, and forwarded it to the County Board. The board also received updates on budgets, staffing, and the 161 Agreement with the LCO Tribe. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were informational reports.

• Approved resolution for 2022 85.21 grant for Senior Resource Center, forwarded to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 6, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Moved agenda item #17 after item 12b (unanimous)

Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee

The Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee will review reports from various local agencies and the 2023 budget. The meeting includes updates on the agricultural fair, libraries, and trail reports.

• Discussion and possible action on the 2023 Budget for Economic Development and UW Extension
• Review of the Final-SCLCO EDC Annual Report 2021-2022
• Reports from the Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau and Northwest Regional Planning Commission
• Updates from the Weiss Community Library and Winter Director
• Motorized and non-motorized trail reports

The committee approved the minutes from the September 6, 2022 meeting without opposition. Members received updates on the UW-Extension, Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau, Northwest Regional Planning Commission, and Economic Development Corporation, including a $10,000 Main Street Bounce Back grant and a Safer Streets grant application. No substantive decisions were made beyond approving the prior minutes.

• Approved minutes of September 6, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee discussed various departmental reports including jail staffing shortages and dispatch vacancies. The committee reviewed a resolution to eliminate the elected Coroner position in favor of a Medical Examiner role under the authority of the Sheriff.

• Resolution to transition from Coroner to Medical Examiner
• Jail staffing and compensation discussion
• Tribal Law Enforcement Grant discussion
• Child Support MOU with DCF & LCO discussion
• 2023 Budget Update discussion

The committee approved a short-term temporary stipend plan to address jail staffing shortages and forwarded it to the Finance Committee. The plan aims to incentivize existing staff to fill open shifts. Other reports were received, and a tribal law enforcement grant discussion was deferred to November.

• Approved jail staffing and compensation plan, forwarded to Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 1, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Deferred tribal law enforcement grant response to November meeting

Zoning Committee

The Zoning Committee will hold public hearings and take action on several rezoning requests and conditional use permits. These include proposals for residential lots, a modular dwelling, a taxidermy studio, an RV park, and non-metallic mining operations.

• RZN #22-011: Request to rezone 17 acres in Town of Sand Lake from Forestry One to Residential/Recreational One for 2-3 lots
• RZN #22-013: Request to rezone 40 acres in Town of Meadowbrook from Forestry One to Agricultural Two for a modular dwelling
• CUP #22-027: Permit for a taxidermy studio in an existing accessory building in the Town of Hayward
• CUP #22-028: Permit for an 84-site seasonal RV park, campground, and rental business in the Town of Lenroot
• CUP #22-029: Renewal and combination of non-metallic mining permits in the Town of Edgewater

The committee approved a rezoning for Futurewood Corp. in Couderay (F-1 to RR-1), a rezoning for Daniel Dean in Meadowbrook (F-1 to A-2) contingent on town approval, a conditional use permit for a taxidermy studio in Hayward, and a conditional use permit for a non-metallic mining operation in Edgewater. Several items were postponed because towns had not yet acted on them.

• Approved RZN #22-011 (Futurewood Corp., Town of Couderay) to rezone 28 acres from Forestry One to Residential/Recreational One for future lot division.
• Approved RZN #22-013 (Daniel Dean, Town of Meadowbrook) to rezone 40 acres from Forestry One to Agricultural Two, contingent on town approval, for a modular dwelling.
• Approved CUP #22-027 (Zachary & Samantha Stuhr, Town of Hayward) for a taxidermy studio in an accessory building with conditions on hours, signage, and waste disposal.
• Approved CUP #22-029 (DDS Real Estate LLC, Town of Edgewater) for renewal and combination of non-metallic mining permits with conditions on operation and reclamation.
• Postponed items 4c, 4d, and agenda 5 (including CUP #22-028 and RZN #22-012) to future meetings pending town action.
• Approved August 19, 2022, minutes.
• Set 2023 meeting dates, moving November 15 to a Wednesday.

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will discuss eliminating the Office of Coroner to establish a Medical Examiner position, including compensation. The meeting also includes a preliminary 2023 budget update and a proposal to establish a Municode code of ordinances.

• Resolution to eliminate the Office of Coroner and create a Medical Examiner position
• Zone District Map Amendment RZN #22-010 for 2.4 acres on Keehn Road
• Preliminary 2023 Budget update
• Resolution to establish a Municode code of ordinances
• Resolution designating an Intoxicated Driver Assessment Facility

The board approved a resolution eliminating the elected coroner position and establishing an appointed medical examiner position, with a roll-call vote of 14-1. They also approved several appointments, a rezone case, and an intoxicated driver assessment facility resolution. The final Municode revision was postponed to October, and an amendment to retain deleted language in the board's policy manual failed 6-9.

• Approved resolution to eliminate coroner and establish medical examiner (14-1)
• Re-appointed Laura Rusk and Gordon Christians to Board of Appeals (unanimous)
• Appointed Roberto Escamilla II to Housing Authority (unanimous)
• Approved rezone Case #22-020 for Terrence Petit (unanimous)
• Approved resolution designating Sawyer County as Intoxicated Driver Assessment Facility (unanimous)
• Postponed final Municode revision approval to October meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Ethics Code procedure (unanimous)
• Approved updated Board Plans and Policies manual after failed amendment (6-9) and typo corrections

Administration Committee

The committee will discuss a proposed advisory referendum asking if the State of Wisconsin should prohibit election officials from using private funds or services. The meeting also includes reports from the Veterans Service, IT, and Human Resources departments.

• Advisory referendum prohibiting outside funding sources for elections
• Resolution designating an intoxicated driver assessment facility
• Review of Municode documents
• County Board plans and policy revisions regarding Ethics
• Closed session regarding litigation: Pinewood Properties v Sawyer County

The Administration Committee approved several policy updates including the final Municode document, an updated Ethics Code, and a resolution designating Health & Human Services as the county's advisory agency for the Intoxicated Driver Program. A resolution prohibiting outside funding for elections was postponed to the October meeting. The committee also entered closed session to discuss litigation related to Pinewood Properties.

• Approved minutes of August 10 meeting (unanimous)
• Postponed advisory referendum on prohibiting outside election funding to October meeting (4-1)
• Approved final Municode package to forward to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved resolution designating Health & Human Services as Intoxicated Driver Program Assessment Facility (unanimous)
• Approved updated Ethics Policy to forward to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved amended Board Plans & Policies to forward to County Board (unanimous)
• Entered closed session to discuss litigation strategy for Pinewood Properties v Sawyer County (5-0)

Finance Committee

The committee reviewed the preliminary 2023 budget, noting projected increases in insurance costs for departments. Discussions also included updates on opioid settlement payments, ambulance billing, and courthouse renovation costs.

• Opioid settlement: $20,134 first payment received with $21,161 anticipated by year-end
• Preliminary 2023 Budget: includes projected increases in department insurance costs
• Courthouse expansion/renovation: review of items currently being ordered
• Approval of Committee Roles & Responsibilities

The Sawyer County Finance Committee reviewed the preliminary 2023 budget, including a 3% salary increase and the Sheriff's request for four additional positions. The committee also discussed ambulance revenues, carbon credit updates, and delinquent tax auctions. No final votes were taken on the budget or other substantive items.

• Approved minutes of August 10, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed preliminary 2023 budget with 3% salary increase and Sheriff's request for 4 new positions
• Noted Housing Authority ARPA funds disbursed; no other ARPA updates
• Tabled carbon credit public hearing to October
• Received ambulance billing update; net payments $103,000+

Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee

The committee will discuss land sales and a potential land purchase proposal in the Town of Hayward. The agenda also includes reports from the Forestry and Zoning/Conservation departments.

• 2021 Sawyer County Land Sale List
• OTC Land Sale Tax ID 26299 - Town of Round Lake
• Land Purchase Proposal: Richard & Denise Cooper NESW Section 18T41N - R8W (40.00 acres)
• Land Purchase Proposal: FRAC NWSW Section 18 T41N - R8W (44.16 acres), Town of Hayward

The committee approved the 2021 Sawyer County land sale list for minimum bid amounts, sending it to the Wisconsin online auction. A property application 33% under minimum bid was denied; it will remain on the list. No action was taken on a trail right-of-way after closed session. The next meeting is October 12.

• Approved 2021 county land sale list for online auction (unanimous)
• Denied application to purchase property Tax ID 26299 at 33% under minimum bid; property stays on list
• No action taken on trail right-of-way after closed session

Public Works Committee

The committee will discuss and potentially act on a request to open a 2-mile ATV/UTV route on County Road F in the Town of Edgewater. The meeting also includes reports on airport operations, maintenance projects, and courtroom remodeling.

• Proposed 2-mile ATV route on County Road F from Badger Bay Lane to Chapel Rd
• Courtroom remodeling update (Owner Monthly Report - August 2022)
• Highway Commissioner report on County Road K paving (5-mile project)
• Airport Runway Rehabilitation design update
• Discussion of a Local Road Safety Plan grant with Northwest Regional Planning Commission

The committee discussed a request for an ATV/UTV route on Buresh Hwy F in the Town of Edgewater, which had been approved by the town. A survey of 24 nearby residents showed 22 in favor and 2 opposed. No action was taken; the item will be on the October agenda.

• Approved minutes of August 10, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled ATV/UTV route request on Buresh Hwy F to October agenda

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

The council will review updates on the establishment of a drug court and the timeline for opioid settlement funds. Members will also discuss potential updates to the council's by-laws.

• Establishment of drug court update
• Timeline for opioid settlement funds recommended to County Board
• Public health opioid research update
• Review and possible update of CJCC by-laws
• Presentation on the Northwoods Tech Literacy Link

The Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council approved applying for a Criminal Justice/TAD grant under priority 3, contingent on Tribal Council approval for Judge Elaine Smith to temporarily sit on the drug court from January 1 to August 1, 2023. The council also received an opioid settlement payment of $20,134.97 and noted a scheduled additional payment of $21,161 before year-end. Minutes from the July 13 meeting were approved unanimously.

• Approved minutes of July 13 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved applying for TAD grant priority 3 contingent on Tribal Council allowing Judge Smith to serve on drug court temporarily (unanimous)

Health & Human Services Board

The board will review performance and program reports for behavioral health, child protective services, youth justice, and public health. The meeting includes a review of the budget performance report through July 31, 2022, and a purchased service recap.

• Budget Performance Report through 07.31.22
• Behavioral Health Report on department programs dated 08.23.22
• Mental Health Cost by Client Report for September 2022
• CPS and Substitute Care Reports for September 2022
• Purchased Service Recap through July 2022

The committee approved the August 9 meeting minutes without dissent. Reports covered LCO's purchase of Norwood Haven for short-term sobriety support, a $226,000 budget request from the Senior Resource Center, and a behavioral health crisis with a request for LCO to re-establish assistance. No formal votes on policy or funding were taken.

• Approved minutes of August 9, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee

The committee reviewed reports from various local organizations including the Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau and the Northwest Regional Planning Commission. Discussion included updates on library projects, trail activity, and broadband coverage efforts.

• Review of Board Policy & Procedure Manual regarding Economic Development and UWEX roles
• Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau report noting a 17% increase in business sales
• Discussion of proposed ATV/UTV ordinance and impact on the local community
• Library update regarding potential donation of 13 paintings valued at $1,000 and up
• Destination Marketing Development Grant application for up to $39,500

The committee approved minor clerical revisions to the Board Policy & Procedure Manual. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted largely of reports and updates.

• Approved minutes of August 8, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved revisions to Board Policy & Procedure Manual (unanimous)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee reviewed reports from various county departments including the Sheriff, Clerk of Court, and Child Support. A primary discussion involved a proposal to eliminate the Office of Coroner and establish a Medical Examiner position.

• Proposal to switch from Coroner to Medical Examiner position
• Active shooter training scheduled for August 16 at Hayward Community School
• Emergency Management received a $28,000+ grant from DHS
• Sheriff's Department reported 1,160 calls for service in August 2022
• Courthouse remodel update regarding furniture and AV equipment

The Public Safety Committee voted to eliminate the elected Coroner position and transition to a Medical Examiner appointed under the Sheriff. The resolution will be forwarded to the County Board for final action. Other reports covered staffing shortages in dispatch and jail, a successful Cops & Bobbers event, and ongoing review of a Child Support MOU with the tribe.

• Approved minutes of August 4 meeting (unanimous)
• Voted to eliminate Coroner position and create Medical Examiner position (motion by Savitski, second by Weaver; forwarded to County Board)

Zoning Committee

The committee will consider several land-use applications, including a residential rezoning in the Town of Winter and various building permits. Discussion includes accessory buildings, multi-family dwellings, and a pole building for storage.

• Rezoning request by Terrance Petit in the Town of Winter to change 2.4 acres from Agricultural One to Residential/Recreational One
• Conditional use permit for an accessory building (38’ x 18’6”) in the Town of Bass Lake
• Conditional use permit for a 60’x84’x12’ pole building for a storage unit warehouse in the Town of Hayward
• Conditional use permit for four multi-family dwelling units and a community recreation area in the Town of Sand Lake
• Postponed applications regarding non-metallic mineral extraction in the Town of Round Lake

The Sawyer County Zoning Committee approved a rezone (RZN #22-010) for a 2.4-acre parcel in the Town of Winter, denied a conditional use permit (CUP #22-023) for an accessory building in the Town of Bass Lake, and approved two conditional use permits (CUP #22-024 and #22-025) in the Towns of Hayward and Sand Lake. Three applications (RZN #22-012 and CUP #22-026 a-c) were postponed to the September meeting. The meeting was held on August 19, 2022.

• Approved rezone RZN #22-010 from A-1 to RR-1 for 2.4 acres in Town of Winter (5-0)
• Denied CUP #22-023 for accessory building in Town of Bass Lake (4-1)
• Approved CUP #22-024 for 60'x84'x12' pole building in Town of Hayward with conditions (5-0)
• Approved CUP #22-025 for multi-family dwelling and semi-public use in Town of Sand Lake with conditions (5-0)
• Postponed RZN #22-012 and CUP #22-026 a-c to September meeting

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will discuss the final approval of the Sawyer County Forest Comprehensive Land Use Plan and a petition for annexation by the City of Hayward. The body is also considering an advisory referendum to prohibit outside funding sources for elections.

• Final approval of the 2021-2035 Sawyer County Forest Comprehensive Land Use Plan
• Land purchase proposal for 84.16 total acres in the Town of Hayward from Richard & Denise Cooper
• Petition for annexation from the City of Hayward regarding 15553 Hwy 77
• Advisory referendum prohibiting outside funding sources for elections
• Appointments for Joe Beran (Board of Appeals) and Brandon Blicharz (Humane Officer)

The board voted 8-5 against discussing a resolution for an advisory referendum prohibiting outside funding sources for elections, effectively killing the proposal. The board approved the 2021-2035 County Forest Comprehensive Land Use Plan, appointed a new Humane Officer, and adjusted supervisory district boundaries due to a City of Hayward annexation.

• Advisory referendum on prohibiting outside election funding failed to advance (8-5 vote against discussion)
• Approved 2021-2035 Sawyer County Comprehensive Land Use Plan
• Appointed Brandon Blicharz as Humane Officer
• Approved resolution changing supervisory district boundaries due to City of Hayward annexation
• Approved minutes of July 21 County Board meeting
• Appointed Joe Beran as 2nd Alternate to Board of Appeals

Administration Committee

The committee is reviewing a petition for annexation involving the City of Hayward and potential changes to supervisory district boundaries. Members are also discussing updates to the Ethics Complaint Process and the Board Policy & Procedures Manual.

• Petition for Annexation - City of Hayward
• Proposed change to Supervisory District Boundaries
• Ethics Complaint Process policy draft
• Sawyer County Board Plans & Policies Manual review
• Veterans Service Department budget and report

The Sawyer County Administration Committee approved a resolution supporting the petition for annexation by the City of Hayward and forwarded it to the full County Board. The committee also approved a draft Ethics Complaint Process policy for final County Board approval. Other reports were received, and a policy manual update was discussed with edits to be made.

• Approved resolution for City of Hayward annexation petition, forwarded to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved draft Ethics Complaint Process policy, forwarded to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 14, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The committee approved using $40,000 in ARPA funds for a helipad request and passed a resolution to increase ambulance personnel wages. Other actions included approving updated meal and mileage reimbursement rates and authorizing an investigation into opioid settlement securitization.

• $40,000 of ARPA funds allocated for Town of Draper Helipad request
• Resolution to adjust ambulance personnel wages with a $210,000 fiscal impact
• Resolution to adjust employee meal and mileage reimbursement rates
• Investigation of securitization option for $579,668 in opioid settlement funds
• $1,432,417 in unallocated ARPA funds remaining

The Sawyer County Finance Committee approved the proposed roles and responsibilities for the committee as provided, with no negative votes. The committee also received updates on opioid settlement payments, ambulance billing, courthouse expansion, and the 2023 budget, but took no other formal actions.

• Approved proposed roles and responsibilities for the Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 14, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Public Works Committee

The committee will review updates to the Board Policy & Procedure Manual regarding roles and responsibilities. Members will also receive reports on the courtroom remodeling project, airport operations, and highway maintenance.

• Discussion and possible action on Public Works Roles & Responsibilities in the Board Policy & Procedure Manual
• Courtroom remodeling update including July 2022 Owner Monthly Report
• Highway Commissioner report on paving for County Road C and CTH K
• Possible hangar name change for Vecchie New Lease
• Roundabout update from the Highway Commissioner

The committee approved the Public Works Roles & Responsibilities policy as presented, with no amendments. They also approved the minutes from the July 13 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports on maintenance, airport, and highway matters, but no votes on those items.

• Approved Public Works Roles & Responsibilities policy (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 13, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

The Criminal Justice Coordinating Council discussed updates regarding TAD grants, diversion services, and potential locations for a new treatment center. The council also reviewed the status of the Pathways Home Program and current jail population statistics.

• TAD Grant: Pre-application due August 19th
• Criminal Justice Coordinator update: 113 pre-trial cases and 10 active diversions reported
• Jail status: 20 individuals currently housed outside of Sawyer County
• By-Laws review: Discussion regarding committee roles and responsibilities

Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee

The Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee is reviewing the final approval of the 2021-2035 Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The body is also discussing a proposal to allow Class 1 e-bikes on county trails and a land purchase proposal in the Town of Hayward.

• Final approval of the 2021-2035 Sawyer County Forest Comprehensive Land Use Plan
• Proposal to permit Class 1 e-bikes on Sawyer County Trails
• Land purchase proposal for 40.00 and 44.16 acres in the Town of Hayward from Richard & Denise Cooper
• Nelson Lake Drawdown 2022 proposal
• Review of Board Policy & Procedure Manual updates

The committee approved a one-year trial allowing Class I e-bikes on county trails, and approved the 2021-2035 Comprehensive Land Use Plan to forward to the County Board. It also approved a five-year, every-other-year drawdown proposal for Nelson Lake Dam. Several closed sessions were held with no action taken, and a carbon tax update was postponed to September.

• Approved one-year trial for Class I e-bikes on trails (unanimous)
• Approved 2021-2035 Comprehensive Land Use Plan resolution, forwarded to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved Nelson Lake Dam drawdown proposal for five years, every other year (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 13, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Health & Human Services Board

The Health and Human Services Board will conduct a public hearing regarding the 2023 HHS budget. The meeting also includes reviews of behavioral health, child protective services, and public health reports.

• Public hearing on HHS 2023 Budget
• Review of SCHHS 2023 Budget Draft
• Budget Performance Report through 06.30.22
• Purchased Service Recap through June 2022
• Behavioral Health Report dated 07.29.22

The Health and Human Services Board voted unanimously to forward the 2023 draft budget to the County Board for approval. The board also approved the minutes of the July 12 meeting and held a public hearing on the budget. No other substantive decisions were made; most reports were informational only.

• Approved minutes of July 12, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Entered and exited public hearing on HHS 2023 budget (unanimous)
• Sent 2023 budget to County Board for approval (unanimous)

Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee

The committee reviewed reports regarding local libraries, visitor spending, and trail ordinances. Discussion included broadband grant awards and the review of board policy and procedure manuals.

• Broadband grants awarded totaling approximately $20 million
• Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau report on $95.9 million in 2021 visitor spending
• Proposed ATV/UTV ordinance update
• Winter Library basement repair project

The Sawyer County Economic Development and UW-Extension Committee met on August 8, 2022, and approved the minutes from the July 11 meeting. The meeting was primarily informational, with reports from the UW-Extension, Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau, Northwest Regional Planning Commission, libraries, and trail committees. No substantive policy decisions were made; the committee discussed upcoming events and programs, including a Clean Sweep event, ATV/UTV ordinance input, and broadband mapping.

• Approved minutes of July 11, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Public Safety Committee

The committee will review a proposal and resolution to eliminate the Office of Coroner and establish a Medical Examiner position. The meeting also includes reports from the Sheriff's Department, Circuit Court, and Emergency Management.

• Resolution to eliminate the Office of Coroner and create a Medical Examiner position
• Courthouse remodel update including $40,000 in utility relocation fees
• Review of 2022 FAP funding for Emergency Management/Ambulance
• Reports on 911 phone system issues and recording system updates
• Clerk of Court report showing $20,313.12 collected via state debt collection and tax intercept

The Sawyer County Public Safety Committee met on August 4, 2022, and approved the previous meeting's minutes with corrections. No substantive decisions were made; the committee reviewed reports from various departments and discussed the potential switch to a medical examiner position, but took no action on it.

• Approved minutes of July 7, 2022, with corrections (unanimous)
• No action taken on switch to medical examiner position

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will review several zoning district map amendments and a proposed ordinance change regarding storage sheds. Additional discussions include ambulance personnel compensation, airport hangar lease templates, and the allocation of ARPA funds for a helipad and courthouse remodeling.

• Zoning District Map Amendments: RZN #22-001 (Spider Lake), RZN #22-002, RZN #22-008, and RZN #22-009
• Proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment for storage sheds and shipping containers
• Ambulance personnel wage adjustment resolution
• Airport hangar lease templates and ground lease requests for Walters/Schull Properties and Vecchie
• ARPA fund allocations for Town of Draper Helipad and Courthouse expansion

The Sawyer County Board approved three rezones and denied one, and approved a zoning ordinance amendment for storage sheds and shipping containers. A rezone in Edgewater failed due to a protest petition requiring 11 votes, receiving only 10. The board also approved an EMS wage increase with a $210,000 fiscal impact.

• Approved Resolution #2022-040 for rezone case #22-001 in Spider Lake (unanimous)
• Denied rezone case #22-009 for Travis & Kelly Butterfield (unanimous)
• Approved rezone case #22-008 for Terrence Petit (unanimous)
• Rezone case #22-002 in Edgewater failed 10-4 (needed 11 votes due to protest petition)
• Approved zoning ordinance amendment for storage sheds and shipping containers (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to write off uncollectible debts and contract with debt collectors (unanimous)
• Approved EMS personnel wage increase with $210,000 fiscal impact (unanimous)
• Approved three OTC land sales in Town of Bass Lake (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review a variance request for a cabin addition in the Town of Winter. The application seeks to reduce the required shoreland setback to allow for indoor plumbing.

• Variance VAR #22-004: 8’ x 14’ cabin addition in the Town of Winter
• Shoreland setback reduction from 75’ to 60’ from the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM)
• Proposed removal of existing outhouse for indoor plumbing via a holding tank

The Sawyer County Board of Appeals approved a variance for Margaret and Gary Hall to build an 8' x 14' addition to their cabin in the Town of Winter, allowing a 60-foot setback from the ordinary high-water mark instead of the required 75 feet. The addition will provide indoor plumbing and a covered entryway, eliminating the outhouse. The motion passed unanimously 4-0. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved variance VAR #22-004 for Hall property, allowing 60-foot shoreland setback (4-0)
• Approved June 21, 2022 minutes (all in favor)

Zoning Committee

The committee will consider two conditional use applications regarding a garage in the Town of Hunter and a yurt deck platform in the Town of Lenroot. Additionally, members will discuss a draft amendment to the Zoning Committee By-Laws.

• CUP #22-021: Garage permit request for John & Lisa Knur in the Town of Hunter
• CUP #22-022: Yurt deck platform permit request for Iris & Nicholas Giagnoni in the Town of Lenroot
• Zoning Committee By-Law Amendment draft discussion

The Sawyer County Zoning Committee approved two conditional use permits: one for a garage in the Town of Hunter and one for a yurt deck platform in the Town of Lenroot. Both approvals included conditions requiring land use permits and timelines for principal structures. The committee also approved a by-law amendment regarding notice of hearings.

• Approved CUP #22-021 for a 24' x 32' garage in Town of Hunter (5-0) with condition of land use permit for principal structure within 3 years
• Approved CUP #22-022 for a 452 sq ft deck platform for a yurt in Town of Lenroot (5-0) with conditions including land use permits and size limit
• Approved draft by-law amendment 6.7, Notice of Hearing and Meeting (5-0)

Administration Committee

The committee will consider elected officials' wages and potential allocations of American Rescue Plan Act funds for a courthouse remodel. The agenda also includes a helipad proposal for the Town of Draper and updates on various departmental reports.

• Discussion of compensation and adjustments for elected officials
• Possible allocation of ARPA funds for Courthouse Remodel
• Town of Draper Helipad Request and Resolution #3-2022
• Veterans Service Department budget performance report
• Review of Board policy and procedure manual

The Sawyer County Administration Committee approved the minutes from the June 9 meeting and discussed several reports. The committee reviewed the Finance Committee's decision to allocate $40,000 in ARPA funds for the helipad project, pending full Board approval. Draft policies for an ethics complaint process and committee roles were presented for comment, with revised drafts to be considered in August. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved June 9, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Endorsed $40,000 ARPA allocation for helipad project, pending full Board approval
• Tabled ethics complaint policy draft for comments, new draft in August
• Tabled committee role/responsibilities draft for comments, new draft in August

Finance Committee

The committee reviewed various funding updates including ARPA allocations for the courthouse expansion and a helipad request from the Town of Draper. Members also considered resolutions regarding wage adjustments and retention pay for employees.

• Reservation of ARPA funds for the courthouse expansion/building project
• Approval of $5,000 from airport STATE ARPA funds for Civil Air Patrol
• Resolution to adjust ambulance personnel wages
• Proposed $121,000 retention pay resolution and $143,000 wage adjustment resolution
• Town of Draper request for ARPA funds for a Flight for Life helipad

The Finance Committee voted 4-1 to allocate $40,000 of remaining ARPA funds to the Town of Draper Helipad request and the remainder to the courthouse remodel project, forwarding the recommendation to the County Board. The committee also approved a resolution to adjust ambulance personnel wages with a $210,000 fiscal impact, and approved a resolution to adjust meal and mileage reimbursement rates. Additionally, the committee authorized the finance director to investigate securitization of opioid settlement funds.

• Approved $40,000 ARPA funds for Town of Draper Helipad, remainder to courthouse (4-1)
• Approved Resolution to Adjust Ambulance Personnel Wages ($210,000 impact)
• Approved Resolution to Adjust Meal and Mileage Reimbursement Rates
• Authorized investigation of opioid settlement securitization option

Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee

The committee reviewed upcoming OTC land sales and discussed potential authority for the Treasurer to conduct direct sales. Members also addressed an updated bid for the Upper Brunet River Dam project.

• Upper Brunet River Dam bid exceeding original estimates by $300,000+
• OTC Land Sale - Town of Bass Lake #002-136-10-2100 ID#1039
• OTC Land Sale - Town of Bass Lake #002-136-09-3500 ID #1035
• OTC Land Sale - Town of Bass Lake #002-109-10-1900 ID #420

The committee approved the sale of three over-the-counter (OTC) parcels in the Town of Bass Lake, with no negative votes. They also discussed a proposed new process for county land sales under ACT 216, but no formal action was taken on that proposal. The committee entered closed session twice for property negotiations but took no action in either session.

• Approved sale of three OTC parcels in Town of Bass Lake (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from June 8, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Entered closed session to discuss property purchases (6-0)
• Entered closed session to discuss carbon tax credit (6-0)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will discuss airport hangar lease templates and specific lease requests for Vecchie and Walters/Schull Properties. The body will also review a proposed ATV/UTV route request ordinance and a potential moratorium on such requests.

• Updated Hangar Lease Templates for the Sawyer County Airport
• Hangar Lease Sale Request for Walters/Schull Properties
• Hangar Ground Lease for Vecchie
• ATV/UTV Route Request Ordinance and potential moratorium
• Courtroom remodeling update from Miron Construction

The Sawyer County Public Works Committee approved revised hangar lease templates, a hangar ground lease sale to Walters/Schull, and a new lease for Vecchie with minor revisions. No action was taken on a proposed ATV/UTV ordinance moratorium. The committee also discussed airport runway grooving, courtroom remodeling, and other updates.

• Approved revised hangar lease templates (unanimous)
• Approved hangar ground lease sale to Walters/Schull (unanimous)
• Approved Vecchie airport hangar ground lease with minor revisions (unanimous)
• Approved June 8, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Changed agenda order to move item 10 after item 7 (unanimous)

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

The council reviewed updates on pre-trial numbers, the TAD grant, and community services. Members discussed potential uses for opioid settlement funds, including mental health counseling in the jail.

• Report of 94 individuals currently on pre-trial
• Discussion of $65 per hour cost for additional mental health counseling
• Update on TAD grant funding and diversion program focus
• Review of potential opioid settlement payment arriving in August

The Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council met on July 13, 2022, and approved the minutes from the June 8 meeting. The council received updates on pretrial services, jail population, and grant opportunities, but took no substantive policy actions.

• Approved minutes of June 8, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Health & Human Services Board

The Board will discuss the Board Policy & Procedure Manual regarding committee roles and responsibilities. The meeting includes reviews of budget performance through May 31, 2022, and reports from behavioral health, child protective services, and public health.

• Discussion and possible action on Board Policy & Procedure Manual committee roles
• Budget Performance Report through May 31, 2022
• Purchased Service Recap through May 2022
• Behavioral health report noting a new individual placement exceeding $279,000
• Public Health update on Community Health Improvement Plan 2023-2025

The Sawyer County Health and Human Services Board met on July 12, 2022, and approved the minutes from the June 8 meeting. The board also voted to include a reference to its by-laws in the County Board policy manual instead of creating a separate HHS section. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted primarily of reports and updates.

• Approved minutes of June 8, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved adding by-laws reference to policy manual in lieu of separate HHS section

Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee

The Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee reviewed reports on local housing projects, broadband initiatives, and regional planning. Discussions included the use of ARPA funds for housing and updates regarding library programming and trail usage.

• Town of Hayward $50,000 ARPA fund contribution for a housing project
• NWRPC Bounce Back program extension through December 31, 2022, with $1.5M remaining
• Sawyer County Housing Authority report on veteran housing vouchers and building rehabs
• Broadband Forward update regarding county point of contact
• Motorized and non-motorized trail usage data and ATV registration trends

The committee approved the June 6, 2022 minutes and received reports from county departments and affiliated organizations. Andy Albarado reported that most Sawyer County broadband grants have been awarded, totaling approximately $20 million. The committee also discussed its roles and responsibilities, with further discussion deferred to the next meeting.

• Approved minutes of June 6, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Deferred policy manual review to next month's agenda

Public Safety Committee

The committee is reviewing several departmental updates including the Sheriff's Department, Clerk of Court, and Emergency Management. Key discussions include potential changes to the Coroner position and ambulance personnel compensation.

• Town of Draper ARPA request for $40,000 helipad proposal
• Resolution to authorize Clerk of Circuit Court to write off small or uncollectible debts
• Discussion regarding switching from the Office of Coroner to a Medical Examiner position
• Consideration of ambulance personnel wage adjustments and contract rates
• Appointment of Brandon Blicharz as County Humane Officer

The Sawyer County Public Safety Committee approved a resolution to adjust ambulance personnel wages, with an estimated annual impact of $210,000, and forwarded it to the Finance Committee and County Board. The committee also approved several other items, including a resolution to write off small uncollectible debts, the appointment of Brandon Blicharz as County Humane Officer, renewal of the NIXLE contract, and a resolution for PSAP grant funding. A proposal to move from a Coroner to a Medical Examiner system was directed to be prepared. The Town of Draper's ARPA request was forwarded to Finance.

• Approved resolution to adjust ambulance personnel wages (unanimous)
• Approved resolution authorizing Clerk of Court to write off small debts and contract with debt collector (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Brandon Blicharz as County Humane Officer (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of NIXLE contract (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for PSAP grant funding (unanimous)
• Directed County Administrator to prepare proposal to move from Coroner to Medical Examiner (unanimous)
• Forwarded Town of Draper ARPA request to Finance Committee (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Sawyer County Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on two variance applications regarding building setbacks and accessory structures. The board will also discuss the Department of Natural Resources' request for comments on shoreline zoning variances.

• VAR #20-002: Request for a reduced Town Road setback for a 24’ x 24’ attached garage and foyer at Woodland Park, Lot 6 in the Town of Edgewater
• VAR #22-003: Request for a second accessory structure (30’ x 40’ pole building with a 12’ x 60’ lean to/greenhouse) in the Town of Hayward
• Discussion on DNR comments regarding shoreline zoning variance requests

The Sawyer County Board of Appeals approved two variance applications. The first allows construction of an attached garage and foyer closer to a town road than normally permitted in Edgewater. The second permits a second accessory building across a town road from the principal dwelling in Hayward, with conditions. The board also signed a letter regarding DNR comments on shoreline zoning variances.

• Approved variance VAR #20-002 for attached garage and foyer in Edgewater (5-0)
• Approved variance VAR #22-003 for 30'x40' pole building with lean-to/greenhouse in Hayward (all in favor)
• Attached conditions to VAR #22-003: deed restriction against subdividing, max 2 outbuildings across town road
• Signed letter to DNR regarding shoreline zoning variance comments
• Approved April 26, 2022 minutes (all in favor)

Zoning Committee

The committee will review several rezoning requests for property splits and lot divisions in the Towns of Winter, Round Lake, and Edgewater. Additionally, a conditional use permit for an event barn is scheduled for discussion, alongside proposed ordinance amendments regarding storage sheds and shipping containers.

• Rezoning request (RZN #22-008) in Town of Winter to change 6.55 acres from Agricultural One to Residential/Recreational Two
• Rezoning request (RZN #22-009) in Town of Round Lake to rezone ~8.9 acres from Agricultural Two to Residential/Recreational One
• Reconsideration of rezoning request (RZN #22-002) in Town of Edgewater for Hathaway Lodge LLC to change F-1 zoning to RR-1
• Conditional use permit (CUP #22-020) in Town of Round Lake for an event barn at White Stag Real Estate LLC property
• Proposed ordinance amendment regarding Storage Sheds and Shipping Containers

The Sawyer County Zoning Committee approved a rezoning request for Hathaway Lodge LLC (RZN #22-002) in the Town of Edgewater by a 3-2 vote, sending it to the County Board. The committee also approved a rezoning in the Town of Winter (RZN #22-008) and denied one in the Town of Round Lake (RZN #22-009). A conditional use permit for an event barn was approved, and an ordinance amendment on storage sheds was passed.

• Approved rezoning RZN #22-008 (Town of Winter) to RR-2 (5-0)
• Denied rezoning RZN #22-009 (Town of Round Lake) to RR-1 (5-0)
• Approved rezoning RZN #22-002 (Hathaway Lodge LLC) to RR-1 (3-2), sent to County Board
• Approved CUP #22-020 (White Stag Real Estate LLC) for event barn with conditions (vote not recorded)
• Approved ordinance amendment on storage sheds and shipping containers (5-0)
• Set November 1, 2022 deadline for CUP #22-005 engineering info (vote not recorded)
• Denied waiver of 1-year filing rule for Pinewood Properties (3-2)
• Interpreted resort as 3 or more units (vote not recorded)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will discuss funding and budget increases for the Upper Brunet River Dam project. Members will also consider resolutions for employee wage adjustments and retention pay, as well as a zoning amendment for Riverside Golf & Recreation LLC.

• Zone District Map Amendment RZN #22-007 for Riverside Golf & Recreation LLC
• Upper Brunet River Dam Project rehabilitation bid proposal and budget increase
• Resolutions for employee wage adjustments and retention pay
• ATV/UTV route request for CTH C from Deer Lake Road
• Appointment adjustment for Sawyer County Housing Authority: reappoint Dale Schleeter, remove Michael Maestri

The Sawyer County Board approved several resolutions, including one-time retention pay of $300-$1,000 per employee, permanent wage adjustments for about 20 positions, and additional funding for the Upper Brunet River Dam removal project. They also re-appointed Dale Schleeter to the Housing Authority Board, approved a rezoning request, and passed a resolution seeking state support for out-of-county placements.

• Re-appointed Dale Schleeter to Housing Authority Board (unanimous)
• Approved rezone 22-007 for Riverside Golf & Recreation (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for out-of-county placement funding (15-0)
• Approved Resolution to Designate Fund Balance for Retention Pay (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution to Designate Wage Adjustments (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution for Upper Brunet Project Funds (unanimous)
• Appointed Andy Albarado as Broadband Point person (unanimous)

Administration Committee

The Administration Committee is meeting to consider wage adjustments and retention pay for staff. The body will also discuss a request from the Town of Draper for helipad support and review updates to Board policies and procedures.

• Town of Draper request for helipad support
• Resolution to consider wage adjustments and retention pay
• Updates to Board policies and procedures
• Veteran Service Office report showing $171,231.62 in retroactive payments for claims

The Sawyer County Administration Committee met on June 9, 2022, and approved the minutes from the May 12, 2022 meeting. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of departmental reports and updates, including a draft of board plans and policies to be sent to board members for input, with a final revision expected on the July agenda.

• Approved minutes of May 12, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The committee met to discuss various financial updates, including carbon tax credits and grant writing options. Members also reviewed a resolution regarding general fund balances and discussed upcoming budget guidelines.

• $1,300,000 designation for HHS budget shortage
• $300,000 re-establishment of Resource Development Fund Dam Projects
• Discussion of $5,000 for Civil Air Patrol via airport funds
• Update on national opioid settlement distribution process
• Review of 2023 budget guidelines and labor negotiations

The Finance Committee approved motions to bring final wage adjustment and retention pay resolutions to the full County Board, with amounts of $143K and $121K respectively. It also approved a $5,000 grant from airport ARPA funds to the Civil Air Patrol and reserved remaining ARPA funds for the courthouse expansion project. The committee discussed the Upper Brunet Dam project's $400K budget overrun and recommended approving the bid, but no formal action was taken on that item.

• Approved motion to bring wage adjustment and retention pay resolutions to full board (unanimous)
• Approved $5,000 from airport ARPA funds for Civil Air Patrol (unanimous)
• Approved motion to reserve ARPA funds for courthouse expansion/building project (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 12, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Public Works Committee

The committee will discuss a request for a new 1.54-mile ATV route on County Road C and a $5,000 funding request for the Civil Air Patrol. Members will also review internet service options for the airport and highway department.

• Proposed ATV/UTV route on CTH C from Deer Lake Road north 1.5 miles
• Discussion of $5,000 in airport funds for Civil Air Patrol
• Review of internet service options for the airport and highway department
• Update on courtroom remodeling by Miron Construction
• Oasis Building update

The Sawyer County Public Works Committee approved an ATV/UTV route from Fire #13116 eastward then south to the existing route on Deer Lake Road, about 1.5 miles. The committee also approved using airport State ARPA funds for a $5,000 Civil Air Patrol request, avoiding impact on the County's ARPA budget. Both motions passed without negative votes. Other items were informational, including reports on highway culvert replacement, airport activities, and courtroom remodeling.

• Approved ATV/UTV route from Fire #13116 to Deer Lake Road (unanimous)
• Approved use of airport State ARPA funds for $5,000 Civil Air Patrol request (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 11, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee

The Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee will discuss forestry reports and trail right-of-way issues. The body is also considering the approval of a contractor bid for the Upper Brunet River Dam.

• Potential approval of Upper Brunet River Dam contractor bid
• Closed session regarding Trail Right-of-Way
• Carbon Tax Credit update
• Recreational Trails Report (Motorized and Non-motorized)
• DNR Forestry and USDA reports

The committee voted to accept the Upper Brunet River Dam bid, contingent on amendments to line items 2 and 4 (including stainless steel gates) and securing additional funding, and forwarded it to the County Board for approval. The bid is over $300K above original estimates, with the county obligated for approximately $600K after DNR grant funds. The motion carried without negative vote.

• Approved minutes of May 11, 2022, meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted Upper Brunet River Dam bid contingent on amendments and funding, forwarded to County Board (unanimous)

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

The Criminal Justice Coordinating Council is meeting to review updates on the TAD grant and drug court. The body will discuss options for opioid settlement funds and potential expansions to local recovery housing and jail counseling.

• Opioid settlement options update
• Proposed increase in mental health counseling hours at the jail
• Possible expansion of the Men's Greater Hayward Area House of Hope
• TAD grant and drug court progress update
• Healing to Wellness Court local conference update

The Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee met and accepted the previous meeting's minutes. They received updates on the criminal justice coordinator's caseload, the TAD grant for diversion, and opioid settlement options. No formal decisions were made; the committee discussed next steps for data benchmarks and potential treatment court.

• Accepted May 11, 2022 meeting minutes (motion carried without negative vote)

Health & Human Services Board

The Health and Human Services Board met to elect a new Chair and Vice Chair. The board also reviewed reports regarding the Senior Resource Center, Adult Long Term Care, and fiscal budget performance.

• Election of Dale Schleeter as Chair
• Election of Jesse Boettcher as Vice Chair
• Approval of AFCSP Grant Resolution designating Senior Resource Center as Agent
• Approval of April 12, 2022 meeting minutes

The Sawyer County Health and Human Services Committee approved the minutes from the May 10, 2022 meeting. They noted the resignation of Ms. Perlick effective June 23, 2022, and discussed a new mental health placement costing over $279,000 for the remainder of the year. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational.

• Approved minutes of May 10, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee

The Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee is meeting to discuss designating a county point of contact for Broadband Forward. The body will also receive updates on housing authority ARPA funds and reports from local economic and tourism organizations.

• Designation of County Point of Contact for Broadband Forward
• Sawyer County Housing Authority update on ARPA funds use
• Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau request for $50,000 appropriation
• Destination Marketing Development Grant application (max award $39,550)
• Reports from the Economic Development Corporation and Northwest Regional Planning Commission

The Sawyer County Public Safety Committee met on June 2, 2022, and approved the minutes from the May 5 meeting. The committee received updates on the courthouse remodel, sheriff's staffing shortages, jail population, and emergency management. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational.

• Approved minutes of May 5, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Public Safety Committee

The committee reviewed updates regarding the courthouse remodel, sheriff's department staffing, and communication systems. Discussions included dispatch shortages, jail vacancies, and upcoming emergency management training.

• Courthouse remodel update: work to commence May 16th
• Communication Center reports two full-time dispatcher vacancies
• Sheriff's Department reports vacancies in the jail
• Animal Control: new officer begins work on May 23rd
• Clerk of Court revenue collected through SDC and TRIP/DOR: $33,671.04

The committee approved the minutes from the May 5, 2022 meeting. Reports were given on courthouse remodeling, sheriff's staffing shortages, jail population, and emergency management. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational.

• Approved minutes of May 5, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

CJCC Work Group

The Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) Work Group is meeting virtually to discuss and review options for the opioid settlement fund. The agenda includes public comments and future agenda items, but no formal decisions are listed.

• Review of opioid settlement fund options
• Public comments
• Future agenda items

Zoning Committee

The committee will consider several land-use requests, including property rezoning in Couderay and Radisson. Discussion includes conditional use permits for multi-dwelling development, mineral extraction renewal, and accessory buildings.

• Rezoning of 2.24 acres from Commercial One to Agricultural One in Town of Couderay (RZN#22-007)
• Rezoning of 0.52 acres from Agricultural One to Commercial One in Town of Radisson (RZN#22-007)
• Conditional use permit for multi-dwelling development in Town of Round Lake (CUP #22-015)
• Five-year renewal of mineral extraction and asphalt plant permit in Town of Meadowbrook (CUP #22-016)
• Conditional use permit for a 36’x52’ post frame accessory building in Town of Radisson (CUP #22-017)

The Sawyer County Zoning Committee held a public hearing on May 20, 2022, and took action on several zoning applications. It approved a rezone for Riverside Golf & Recreation LLC, denied a conditional use permit for a multi-dwelling development in Round Lake, approved a five-year renewal for a non-metallic mineral extraction operation, approved an accessory building in Radisson, and denied a woodworking shop in Bass Lake. The committee also discussed a draft ordinance amendment on storage sheds and shipping containers.

• Approved rezone RZN#22-007 for Riverside Golf & Recreation LLC (all in favor)
• Denied CUP #22-015 for multi-dwelling development in Round Lake (3-1)
• Approved CUP #22-016 five-year renewal for non-metallic mineral extraction (3-0)
• Approved CUP #22-017 for accessory building in Radisson (all in favor)
• Denied CUP #22-018 for woodworking shop in Bass Lake (2-1)
• Sent draft storage shed/shipping container ordinance amendment to towns and legal counsel (all in favor)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will discuss two zone district map amendments and the appointment of a member to the Labor Negotiations Board. The meeting includes a proposal to conduct elections for Board Chair and Vice Chair.

• Rezoning application RZN #22-002 for Hathaway Lodge, LLC to build lakeshore cottages
• Zone District Map Amendment RZN #22-006
• Transfer of highway right of way title to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation
• Approval of 2022 Spring Timber Sale bids
• Transfer of AFCSP Grant to the Senior Resource Center

The Sawyer County Board of Supervisors denied a rezoning request for Roger and Renee Sievers (case #22-006) and remanded the Hathaway Lodge LLC rezone (case #22-002) back to the Zoning Committee for reconsideration with a new public hearing. The board also approved several resolutions, including conveying highway right-of-way to the state, designating fund balances, and accepting spring timber sale bids. A resolution to conduct a chair and vice chair election failed on an 8-7 roll call vote.

• Approved minutes of April 21 meeting (unanimous)
• Appointed Ron Kinsley to Labor Negotiations Board (unanimous)
• Remanded Hathaway Lodge rezone #22-002 to Zoning for new hearing (unanimous)
• Denied Sievers rezone #22-006 (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to convey Hwy 27 right-of-way to state (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 spring timber sale bids (unanimous)
• Approved resolution designating Senior Resource Center as AFCSPP agent (unanimous)
• Approved fund balance resolution: $1.3M to HHS, $300K to Dam Projects (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to discuss 2023 budget guidelines and the designation of general fund balances. The body is also reviewing ARPA fund allocations and providing updates on opioid settlements and carbon tax credits.

• Proposed designation of $1,300,000 for Health & Human Services Out Of County Placements
• Proposed designation of $300,000 for Resource Development Fund Dam Projects
• Resolution to approve $5,000 in ARPA funds for the Civil Air Patrol
• 2023 Budget Guidelines including a 10% health insurance rate increase in October
• Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair

The Sawyer County Finance Committee approved a resolution to designate $1,300,000 from the general fund balance to cover the Health and Human Services budget shortage and re-establish $300,000 for Resource Development Fund Dam Projects. The resolution will be forwarded to the County Board. A request for ARPA funds for the Civil Air Patrol failed due to lack of a second. The committee also elected Ron Kinsley as Chair and John Righeimer as Vice Chair.

• Approved resolution to designate $1.3M for HHS shortage and $300K for dam projects (unanimous)
• Elected Ron Kinsley as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected John Righeimer as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 14, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• ARPA funds request for Civil Air Patrol failed (no second)

Administration Committee

The committee will consider electing a Chair and Vice Chair. Discussion items include updates from the Veterans Service, Information Technology, and Human Resources departments.

• Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
• Veterans Service Department report including $134,586.13 in retroactive payments for disability claims
• Human Resources exit interview process update
• ARPA fund priorities update

The Sawyer County Administration Committee elected Tweed Shuman as Chair and Ron Buckholtz as Vice Chair by unanimous voice votes. The committee approved the minutes from the April 14, 2022 meeting. Reports were received from Veterans Service, IT, Human Resources, and the County Administrator, with no other formal decisions made.

• Elected Tweed Shuman as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Ron Buckholtz as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 14, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Public Works Committee

The committee will review asphalt and centerline striping bids for the 2022 season. Members will also consider a resolution to transfer highway lands in the City of Hayward to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

• Discussion and possible action on Asphalt Centerline Pulverizing Bids
• Proposed transfer of highway lands along Highway 27 in the City of Hayward to the State
• Review of asphalt bids from Monarch Paving
• Review of centerline striping bids from Century Fence and Sir Lines A Lot
• Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair

The Sawyer County Public Works Committee elected Ron Kinsley as Chair and Ed Peters as Vice Chair, approved the April 13 meeting minutes, and approved a hot mix asphalt bid from Monarch Paving for County Roads C and K. They also approved a resolution to transfer highway lands to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation for disposal near Riverside Motel. No other substantive decisions were made; reports were received on maintenance, airport, and highway projects.

• Elected Ron Kinsley as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Ed Peters as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved April 13, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved hot mix asphalt bid from Monarch Paving: $57.40 Type LT, $61.50 Type MT (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to transfer highway lands to Wisconsin DOT (unanimous)

Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee

The committee met to discuss forestry reports, timber sale bids, and upcoming events. Key actions included approving land sales in the Town of Bass Lake and soliciting bids for Upper Brunet River Dam repairs.

• Approval of three over-the-counter land sales in the Town of Bass Lake
• Solicitation of bids and approval of plans for Upper Brunet River Dam repair
• Approval of Tag Alder Beach development proposal near Nelson Lake
• Review of 2022 Spring Timber Sale bid results
• Discussion of upcoming Chequamegon events

The committee unanimously elected Jesse Boettcher as Chair and Marc Helwig as Vice Chair. It approved the April 13 meeting minutes, a request for the Chequamegon 100 event on June 18, and a timber sale bid. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were informational updates.

• Elected Jesse Boettcher as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Marc Helwig as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved April 13, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Chequamegon 100 event request for June 18 (unanimous)
• Approved timber sale high bid (unanimous)

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

The council will meet to elect a Chair and Vice Chair and review updates on the opioid settlement and kiosk operations. The body will also receive reports from the Criminal Justice Coordinator and community services.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Opioid settlement and work group update
• Kiosk update
• Criminal Justice Coordinator update
• Community Services updates

The Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council elected Kathy McCoy as Chair and Lt. Johnson as Vice Chair by voice vote. The council also approved minutes from previous meetings and received updates on opioid settlement funds, jail mental health services, and community programs.

• Elected Kathy McCoy as Chair (unanimous voice vote)
• Elected Lt. Johnson as Vice Chair (7-3 voice vote)
• Approved minutes of April 6, 2022 meeting (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of April 25 work group meeting (motion carried)

Health & Human Services Board

The Health and Human Services Board is meeting to elect new officers and review committee reports. Discussions include the closure of the Winter meal site due to staffing shortages and high costs, as well as updates on public health and behavioral health.

• Election of Board Chair and Vice Chair
• Resolution authorizing transfer of AFCSP Grant to Senior Resource Center
• Closure of the WALDO Senior Dining location in Winter effective July 1, 2022
• Report on monthly meal counts for Hayward, Stone Lake, Winter, and Exeland sites
• Budget performance report through March 31, 2022

The Sawyer County Health and Human Services Committee elected Dale Schleeter as Chair and Jesse Boettcher as Vice Chair, both unanimously. The board approved the meeting agenda, the minutes from the April 12 meeting, and a resolution designating the Senior Resource Center as agent for the AFCSP grant. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were informational reports.

• Elected Dale Schleeter as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Jesse Boettcher as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 12, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved AFCSP Grant Resolution designating Senior Resource Center as agent (unanimous)

Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee

The committee will meet to elect a Chair and Vice Chair. The agenda includes reports from the Economic Development Corporation, the University of Wisconsin-Extension, and the Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Review of 2021 Sawyer County Revolving Loan Snapshot showing $310,000 in proceeds for 5 businesses
• Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau SWOT analysis
• Economic Development Corporation 2022 Strategic Goals
• Reports from Hayward and Winter libraries

The Sawyer County Economic Development and UW-Extension Committee elected Tom Duffy as Chair and John Righeimer as Vice Chair by unanimous votes. The committee approved the minutes from the April 11, 2022 meeting. Reports were presented on the UW-Extension, Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau, Economic Development, libraries, trails, and the Historical Society, but no formal decisions were made on these items.

• Elected Tom Duffy as Committee Chair (unanimous)
• Elected John Righeimer as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 11, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Public Safety Committee

The committee met to review updates from the Circuit Court, Sheriff's Department, and Emergency Management. Discussions included courthouse remodel progress, jail population increases, and emergency management requests for state funding.

• Courthouse remodel update: $8M in bond sales is complete
• Emergency Management: Requesting approximately $95,000 from the State following an ice storm
• Sheriff's Department: Jail report indicates increasing numbers with 16 residents currently housed in Barron County
• Clerk of Court: Revenue collected through SDC and TRIP/DOR was $37,028.81 between March 28 and April 26, 2022

The Sawyer County Public Safety Committee unanimously re-elected Ron Buckholtz as chair and Marc Helwig as vice chair, and approved the minutes of the April 6, 2022 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted primarily of departmental reports and updates.

• Re-elected Ron Buckholtz as Committee Chair (unanimous)
• Re-elected Marc Helwig as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 6, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider an administrative appeal regarding whether a property's use qualifies as a 'resort.' The board will also reconsider a variance request for shoreline setbacks in the Town of Bass Lake.

• Appeal #22-001: Douglas Kurtzweil regarding the classification of Old Arrow Resort in the Town of Hunter
• Variance #22-001: Reconsideration of after-the-fact variance for patio, walkway, and retaining wall expansions for Dean & Heide Miller in the Town of Bass Lake
• Shoreline setback variance request for a 1-foot encroachment to the ordinary highwater mark of Lac Courte Oreilles

The Sawyer County Board of Appeals denied an appeal by Douglas Kurtzweil against the Zoning Administrator's decision that the Old Arrow Resort property in the Town of Hunter does not qualify as a resort under the county ordinance. The board also approved an after-the-fact variance for Dean and Heide Miller for shoreline setback expansions on Lac Courte Oreilles. The meeting included procedural items and discussion of a future DNR letter request.

• Denied appeal APP #22-001 regarding Old Arrow Resort use (4-1)
• Approved after-the-fact variance VAR #22-001 for Dean & Heide Miller (4-1)
• Approved December 14, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

The Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Work Group is meeting to discuss partner options and the need for treatment facilities. The group will also review goals, defined steps, and future agenda items.

• Discussion of treatment facility need and available options
• Review of partner options
• Establishment of goals and defined steps

The Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee met to discuss recommendations for using opioid settlement money. No formal decisions were made; members explored potential uses such as a residential treatment center and jail mental health services. The county expects approximately $726,000 over 18 annual payments.

• No formal decisions made; meeting focused on discussion and exploration of opioid settlement fund uses

Zoning Committee

The committee will review several rezoning requests, including land conversions for residential dwellings and lakeshore cottages. It will also consider conditional use permits for accessory buildings, solar arrays, a self-storage facility, and mineral extraction renewals.

• Rezoning of 8.7 acres in Lenroot to Residential/Recreational One (RR-1) for three dwellings
• Rezoning of 18.9 acres in Edgewater to Residential/Re-creational One (RR-1) for lakeshore cottages
• Conditional use permit for a 48-unit self-storage facility in Sand Lake
• Five-year renewal of mineral extraction permits in Meteor and Winter
• Special event application for tri-annual customer appreciation days in Bass Lake

The Sawyer County Zoning Committee held a public hearing and made several decisions. It denied a rezoning request in the Town of Lenroot (RZN #22-006) by a 3-1 vote, and a second rezoning request in the Town of Edgewater (RZN #22-002) failed on a 2-2 tie, resulting in no recommendation. The committee approved several conditional use permits, including a solar array in Bass Lake, a self-storage facility in Sand Lake, a garage in Winter, and renewals for mineral extraction operations in Meteor and Winter. It also approved a special event permit in Bass Lake and withdrew a conditional use application in Couderay.

• Denied rezoning RZN #22-006 in Town of Lenroot (3-1)
• Rezoning RZN #22-002 in Town of Edgewater failed on 2-2 tie, no recommendation
• Approved CUP #22-010 for solar array in Bass Lake with conditions (3-1)
• Approved CUP #22-011 for 48-unit self-storage in Sand Lake (4-0)
• Approved CUP #22-012 for 30'x30' garage in Winter (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved CUP #22-013 for mineral extraction renewal in Meteor (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved CUP #22-014 for mineral extraction renewal in Winter (voice vote, all in favor)
• Approved SUP #22-001 for special events in Bass Lake (voice vote, all in favor)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will consider zone district map amendments and the sale of three OTC land parcels in the Town of Bass Lake. The meeting also includes discussions on personnel policy updates and the use of ARPA funds for the Civil Air Patrol.

• Zone District Map Amendments RZN #22-003 and RZN #22-004
• OTC Land Sales for three parcels in the Town of Bass Lake (Tax IDs 1282, 1278, and 171)
• Xcel Energy Electrical Overhead Distribution Easement at 4th and Main
• Resolution to carryover funds from the 2021 Sheriff Dept Budget to 2022
• ARPA funds request for the Civil Air Patrol

The Sawyer County Board of Supervisors voted on a rezone request for the old Hayward National Golf Course to allow an RV park, but the motion failed 8-7. The board approved several other items, including appointments, an airport boundary map resolution, an Xcel Energy easement, land sales, a budget carryover resolution, and personnel policy changes. A $5,000 ARPA request from the Civil Air Patrol was postponed to the May meeting.

• Rezone #22-003 and #22-004 for RV park denied (8-7)
• Approved committee appointments and Jim Tiffany to Zoning Board of Appeals
• Approved airport boundary map resolution
• Approved Xcel Energy easement on 4 and Main
• Approved three land sales in Town of Bass Lake
• Approved Sheriff Department budget carryover resolution
• Postponed $5,000 ARPA request from Civil Air Patrol to May
• Approved personnel policy changes

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors held an organizational meeting to elect officers and approve various resolutions. Key actions included authorizing a large bond sale for courthouse construction and approving several fee and compensation adjustments.

• $8,000,000 General Obligation Building Bonds, Series 2022 sale
• Election of Board Chair and Vice Chair
• Approval of water testing fee increase
• Approval of Senior Resource Center bus purchase
• Employment contract for County Coordinator Andy Albarado

The Sawyer County Board of Supervisors held its organizational meeting, re-electing Tweed Shuman as chair by a 7-6 vote over Ron Kinsley. Ron Buckholtz was elected vice chair after a run-off. The board also approved minutes from previous meetings and set the next meeting for April 21.

• Re-elected Tweed Shuman as chair (7-6)
• Elected Ron Buckholtz as vice chair (7-6 over Dale Schleeter)
• Approved March 17, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved March 31, 2022 special board meeting minutes (unanimous)

Administration Committee

The Administration Committee will receive reports from the Veterans Service, Information Technology, and Human Resources departments. The meeting also includes a report from the County Administrator.

• Veterans Service Department report
• Information Technology Department report
• Human Resources report
• County Administrator's report

Finance Committee

The committee is reviewing several financial matters including a request to carry over unspent funds for the Sheriff Department. They are also discussing ARPA fund requests and updates regarding courthouse construction funding.

• Resolution to carryover $13,922 from 2021 to 2022 Sheriff Department budget
• Resolution authorizing General Obligation Bonds not to exceed $2,071,395 for courthouse facilities
• Amended ARPA request of $100,000 for Norvado Broadband Expansion
• Discussion regarding a new bank account for opioid settlement funds
• Review of 2021 preliminary financial status for the General Fund and HHS

Public Works Committee

The committee reviewed reports regarding the Sawyer County Airport, highway projects, and maintenance. Discussions included an airport property map resolution and a courthouse electrical easement.

• Airport Boundary Survey Exhibit A Property Map discussion
• Sawyer County Airport Master Plan consultant selection process
• Courthouse Electrical Overhead Distribution Easement discussion
• Oasis Building remodeling update
• Roundabout proposal for Hwy. B and K

The Sawyer County Public Works Committee approved an easement request from Xcel Energy to move utilities at Main and Fourth Street, forwarding it to the County Board, and approved a $500 compensation worksheet. The committee also approved an airport property map resolution for County Board approval. No action was taken on a Tower Alliance proposal.

• Approved Xcel Energy easement request for utility move at Main and Fourth Street, forwarded to County Board
• Approved $500 compensation worksheet for Xcel easement
• Approved Resolution Exhibit A – Airport Property Map, forwarded to County Board (Olson abstained)
• Approved minutes of March 9, 2022 meeting
• Moved agenda items #9 and #11 to follow #6

Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee

The committee will discuss several county-owned land sales and a beach proposal for Nelson Lake. Additionally, the agenda includes discussions regarding Upper Brunet River Dam repair plans and various mountain bike clinic events.

• OTC Land Sale - Tax ID 1282 (Town of Bass Lake) minimum bid $300
• OTC Land Sale - Tax ID 1278 (Town of Bass Lake) minimum bid $900
• OTC Land Sale - Tax ID 171 (Town of Bass Lake) minimum bid $600
• Nelson Lake Tag Alder Landing Beach Proposal
• Upper Brunet River Dam plan approvals and contractor bids

Health & Human Services Board

The Health and Human Services Board reviewed various departmental updates including public health, behavioral health, and adult long-term care. The board recommended a revised schedule of water testing fees to the County Board for approval.

• Recommended revised water testing fee schedule to the County Board
• Report on potential relocation of ADRC of the North and Adult Protective Services to the former Oasis site
• Update on Senior Resource Center bus replacement and ARPA fund considerations
• Discussion of COVID-19 status and vaccination rates in LCO

The Sawyer County Health and Human Services Committee met on April 12, 2022, and approved the minutes from the February 8 and March 12 meetings. The meeting consisted primarily of committee reports and updates; no substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of February 8 and March 12, 2022 meetings (unanimous)

Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee

The committee reviewed reports regarding agricultural fairs, university extension programming, and local libraries. Discussion included updates on trail maintenance following an ice storm and library facility needs.

• Historical Society fundraising total of $20,575
• Library search for contractors to replace ceiling tiles
• Library grant request for internet hotspots and laptops through Northern Waters
• UW-Extension FoodWIse 'Walk With Ease' program development
• Pesticide applicator training at the Spooner Ag Station

The Sawyer County Economic Development and UW-Extension Committee met on April 7, 2022, and approved the minutes from the March 7, 2022 meeting. The meeting consisted primarily of informational reports from various departments and organizations, with no substantive policy decisions made.

• Approved minutes of March 7, 2022 meeting (motion by Boettcher, second by Hessel, carried without negative vote)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee is reviewing operational reports from the Sheriff's Department, Circuit Court, and other public safety offices. The body is also considering rate changes for county ambulance services.

• Proposed increase in County Ambulance Service rates based on a LifeQuest survey
• Courthouse remodel update and bid process discussion
• Report of one full-time vacancy in the Communications Center
• Update on delayed shipping for patrol body cameras
• Discussion on using opioid settlement funds for diversion programs

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

The Criminal Justice Coordinating Council is discussing the formulation of fund use for the Opioid Settlement to provide to the County Board. The meeting also includes updates on kiosk activity, criminal justice coordinator reports, and community services.

• Discussion of Opioid Settlement remediation uses
• Kiosk service costs of approximately $122 per month
• JusticePoint report of 56 individuals on pre-trial supervision
• JusticePoint report of 216 individuals on wait-list

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will review reports from the airport, highway, and maintenance departments. The body will consider action on airport boundary surveys and a courthouse anchor easement.

• Discussion and possible action on Airport Boundary Survey Exhibit A
• Discussion and possible action on Courthouse Anchor Easement
• Tower Alliance proposal
• Roundabout update
• Oasis Building update

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is discussing the authorization of additional general obligation bonds to cover rising costs for courthouse facilities. The body is also reviewing a proposal to allocate ARPA funds for broadband expansion.

• Proposed general obligation bonds not to exceed $2,071,395 for courthouse facilities
• Proposed $100,000 in ARPA funds for Norvado broadband expansion in Clam Lake and Winter Township areas
• GMP Amendment for Miron Construction

The Sawyer County Finance Committee approved a resolution authorizing general obligation bonds not to exceed $2,071,395 for courthouse facilities, forwarding it to the County Board. The committee also approved an amended resolution authorizing $100,000 in ARPA funds for Norvado broadband expansion, covering additional areas. Both items were forwarded to the County Board for final approval.

• Approved resolution authorizing $2,071,395 in general obligation bonds for courthouse facilities (3-1, Petit nay)
• Approved amended resolution authorizing $100,000 ARPA funds for Norvado broadband expansion (unanimous)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will discuss and possibly approve a guaranteed maximum price amendment for the Sawyer Courthouse addition and remodeling project. The meeting also includes a proposal for general obligation bonds to fund courthouse facilities and a request for ARPA funds for broadband expansion.

• Guaranteed Maximum Price amendment for Miron Construction Co., Inc. not to exceed $8,618,746
• Resolution for General Obligation Bonds not to exceed $2,071,395 for courthouse facilities
• Resolution authorizing $100,000 in ARPA funds for Norvado broadband expansion
• Courthouse project substantial completion date set for July 29, 2023

The Sawyer County Board approved an amendment to Miron Construction's contract setting a guaranteed maximum price for the courthouse remodeling project, with a total project cost of $10,071,395. They also passed a resolution authorizing general obligation bonds not to exceed $2,071,395 to fund the funding gap. Both votes were 12-1, with Supervisor Petit voting against. Additionally, the board approved an amended broadband expansion resolution, removing the Town of Draper and adding Moose Lake and Clam Lake areas, adding 248 rooftops to the project scope.

• Approved amendment to Miron Construction contract with guaranteed maximum price for courthouse project (12-1)
• Approved resolution authorizing general obligation bonds up to $2,071,395 for courthouse facilities (12-1)
• Approved amended broadband expansion resolution, removing Draper and adding Moose Lake/Clam Lake areas (unanimous)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee is reviewing updates for the Sawyer Courthouse addition and remodeling project. Discussion includes a contract amendment with Miron Construction and a resolution for general obligation bonds.

• Guaranteed Maximum Price Amendment to Miron Construction's contract for $8,618,746
• Resolution authorizing General Obligation Bonds not to exceed $2,071,395 for courthouse facilities
• Airport Master Plan Project Consultant Selection Process resolution
• Norvado PSC Grant Application - ARPA Request

The Public Works Committee approved a Guaranteed Maximum Price amendment to Miron Construction's contract for the courtroom remodeling, bringing the total project cost to $2,071,395, and forwarded it to the County Board. They also approved a resolution authorizing general obligation bonds not to exceed $2,071,95 (likely $2,071,950) for courthouse facilities, also forwarded to the County Board. An amended Norvado grant request, changing service locations from Draper to Clam Lake, was forwarded to the Finance Committee.

• Approved Guaranteed Maximum Price amendment to Miron Construction contract for courtroom remodeling (unanimous)
• Approved resolution authorizing general obligation bonds not to exceed $2,071,95 for courthouse facilities (unanimous)
• Forwarded amended Norvado PSC grant request to Finance Committee (unanimous)

Zoning Committee

The Zoning Committee will hold public hearings and take action on several rezone and conditional use applications. Key items include a proposal for a large RV park and requests for commercial developments in the Towns of Sand Lake, Winter, and Edgewater.

• Proposed 197-site RV park by Pinewood Properties LLC in the Towns of Bass Lake and Hayward
• Rezone request for 10.09 acres to Commercial One (C-1) for mini storage units (James & Rosemary Rhea)
• Conditional use request for a U-Haul dealership in the Town of Winter (Shaun & Stephanie Melarvie)
• Conditional use request for a 1,000 square foot commercial building for recreational sales and marina in the Town of Edgewater (Beverly Skar)
• Review of Brodie Lane Estates County Subdivision preliminary and final plats

The Sawyer County Zoning Committee approved rezoning and conditional use permits for a 197-site RV park in the Towns of Bass Lake and Hayward, with a 3-2 vote on the rezoning and a 3-2 vote on the conditional use permit. The committee also approved a U-Haul dealership conditional use permit in the Town of Winter (4-1), adjourned a marina/recreational sales case pending additional information, and accepted withdrawals of several applications. All actions were recorded as motions with roll call votes.

• Approved rezoning of Pinewood Properties parcels to RR-2 for 197-site RV park (3-2)
• Approved conditional use permit for 197-site RV park with conditions (3-2)
• Approved U-Haul dealership conditional use permit in Town of Winter (4-1)
• Adjourned CUP #22-005 (Skar/O'Rourke) pending engineered driveway and grading info (4-1)
• Accepted withdrawal of RZN #22-005 (James & Rosemary Rhea)
• Accepted withdrawal of CUP #22-008 (Delta23 Outfitters LLC)
• Postponed RZN #22-002 (Hathaway Lodge LLC) until April 22nd
• Approved Bernard & Gerri Bara Certified Survey Map and Brodie Lane Estates preliminary and final plats

Board of Supervisors

The Sawyer County Board approved the sale of $8,000,000 in General Obligation Building Bonds for courthouse construction, passed a resolution to purchase a new Senior Resource Center bus using ARPA funds, and approved a contract to hire Andy Albarado as the new county administrator. A motion to create an ad hoc committee for ARPA fund priorities failed. Several other resolutions were approved, including water testing fee increases and salary/compensation resolutions.

• Approved $8M General Obligation Building Bonds, Series 2022 (15-0)
• Approved Senior Resource Center bus purchase resolution (14-1)
• Approved contract and employment offer to Andy Albarado as County Administrator (unanimous)
• Approved water testing fee increase resolution (14-1)
• Approved Airport Master Plan resolution (unanimous)
• Approved Xcel Energy overhead distribution easement resolution (unanimous)
• Approved Annual Trail Aids renewal resolution (unanimous)
• Defeated motion to create ad hoc committee for ARPA fund priorities (6-9)

Administration Committee

The Sawyer County Ad Hoc Recruitment Committee is meeting to discuss and possibly take action on the county administrator contract. The discussion will occur in closed session under Wisconsin Statutes, with a return to open session afterward. The agenda is otherwise procedural, including roll call and public comments.

• County administrator contract update (discussion and possible action)
• Closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(c) for employment/compensation data
• Public comments and future agenda items

Administration Committee

The committee will review applicants for the County Administrator position during a closed session. The meeting will then move to an open session for the discussion and possible selection of a candidate.

• Review of County Administrator applicants
• Selection of candidate for County Administrator

The committee reviewed applicants for the County Administrator position and interviewed two candidates, Scott Johnson and Andy Albarado. They entered closed session to discuss employment data, then returned to open session and adjourned. No final decision on the appointment was made.

• Entered closed session to consider employment data (5-0)
• Returned to open session (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 1:51 pm

Administration Committee

The Sawyer County Board of Supervisors will meet to question final candidates for the County Administrator position. The interviews will take place in a closed session. The agenda states that no action will be taken at this event.

• Closed session to consider employment and compensation for County Administrator candidates

Administration Committee

The committee is reviewing elected official salaries for the Sheriff, Clerk of Courts, and Coroner. Members are also discussing updates regarding courthouse construction bids and the appointment of an interim county administrator.

• Salary and health insurance discussion for Sheriff and Clerk of Courts
• Compensation authorization for the Coroner
• Courthouse construction bid update and potential closed session
• Appointment of Mike Keefe as Interim County Administrator
• Veterans Service Department budget and activity report

Finance Committee

The committee reviewed several broadband proposals for ARPA funding and discussed bond issuance for courthouse construction. Members also addressed a proposed increase to ambulance service rates.

• Approval of $100,000 ARPA request for Norvado broadband project
• Approval of $100,000 ARPA request for Bevcomm broadband project
• Approval of $400,000 ARPA request for Mosaic Technologies broadband extension
• Discussion of $8,000,000 General Obligation Building Bonds for courthouse facilities
• Resolution to authorize ambulance service rate increases

The Sawyer County Finance Committee approved a resolution to sell $8,000,000 in General Obligation Building Bonds, Series 2022, to fund courthouse construction, and forwarded it to the County Board. The committee also approved a recommended ambulance service fee structure from LifeQuest and forwarded it to the County Board. No action was taken on a separate resolution authorizing up to $1,500,000 in bonds for courthouse facilities.

• Approved $8,000,000 General Obligation Building Bonds, Series 2022 resolution, forwarded to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved LifeQuest ambulance service fee structure, forwarded to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of February 10, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Moved to closed session for property purchase deliberation (4-0)
• No action taken on $1,500,000 bond authorization for courthouse facilities

Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee

The Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee met to discuss forestry reports, zoning updates, and land trade proposals. The committee reviewed 2021 wildlife damage claims and considered a land trade involving a 40-acre parcel near Hatchery Creek Park.

• Approval of a 40-acre land trade proposal next to Hatchery Creek Park
• Review of 2021 Wildlife Damage Claims totaling $126,950.47 in appraised damage
• Approval of the annual emergency fire wardens list
• Discussion of the Upper Brunet River dam project fish restocking options
• Approval of the February 12, 2022 Hayward Lions Pre-Birkie event

The committee approved a motion to authorize Forestry Director Greg Peterson to work with the Interim Administrator to hire an attorney to develop a carbon credit contract for review next month. They also approved the 2022 Outdoor Recreational Trail Aids Resolution and a wildlife damage claims report. No other substantive decisions were made; the rest of the meeting consisted of reports and updates.

• Approved motion to authorize hiring attorney for carbon credit contract (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Outdoor Recreational Trail Aids Resolution (unanimous)
• Approved wildlife damage claims report (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of February 9, 2022, with correction (unanimous)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee is reviewing a proposal for an Airport Master Plan project and discussing a potential roundabout at the intersection of Highway B and K. The committee also received updates on courthouse construction, maintenance projects, and snow removal operations.

• Airport Master Plan project with an estimated cost of $350,000
• Proposed roundabout at the intersection of Highway B and K
• Annual renewal of existing ATV/UTV routes on County Highways
• Intergovernmental Agreement Between NW Wisconsin Counties for Mutual Aid
• Oasis Building renovation to house ADRC and Veterans services

Health & Human Services Board

The Health and Human Services Board will review departmental reports and consider a resolution to increase water testing fees. The meeting also includes updates on COVID-19 and budget performance through January 2022.

• Discussion and possible action on Water Testing Fee Increase (Res 2022)
• Review of Budget Performance Report through 01.31.22
• HHS Board Appointments
• Report on termination of contract between Sawyer County and AdvancedMD
• Public Health COVID-19 update

The Sawyer County Health and Human Services Committee recommended a revised schedule of water testing fees to the County Board for approval. The motion carried without a negative vote. No other substantive decisions were made; most agenda items were informational reports or updates.

• Recommended revised water testing fee schedule to County Board (motion carried, no negative vote)

Administration Committee

The committee will meet to review final candidates in a closed session. The body will then return to an open session for discussion and possible action regarding candidate selection.

• Review of final candidates in closed session
• Candidate selection discussion and possible action
• Approval of February 3, 2022, Ad Hoc Recruitment minutes

The Sawyer County Ad Hoc Recruitment Committee met and approved the minutes from February 3, 2022. The committee entered closed session to discuss employee performance data, then returned to open session and approved allowing PAA to contact candidates for interviews. The meeting adjourned at 7:28 pm.

• Approved minutes of February 3, 2022 meeting
• Entered closed session under Wis. Stat. § 19.85(1)(c) for employee performance data
• Approved PAA to contact candidates for interview process

Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee

The committee is meeting to receive reports from various county partners, including the library, historical society, and tourism bureau. The body is also tasked with appointing a representative to the Northwest Wisconsin International Trade Business & Economic Council.

• Appointment of a representative to the Northwest Wisconsin International Trade Business & Economic Council
• Winter Library Director's Report and Hayward Library 2021 Annual Report
• Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau marketing report
• Northwest Regional Planning Commission report on Bounce Back program funding
• Historical Society update regarding a youth project that raised $4,000

The committee approved the minutes from the February 7, 2022 meeting without opposition. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting consisted of informational reports from county departments and affiliated organizations.

• Approved minutes of February 7, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Public Safety Committee

The committee will review reports from the Sheriff's Department, Circuit Court, and other public safety offices. A key item for discussion and possible action is the County Ambulance Service Rate Survey.

• Discussion and possible action on County Ambulance Service Rate Survey
• Courthouse remodel update with bonds to be issued in March
• Sheriff's report on jail overcrowding and inmates being sent to Barron County
• Installation of Lumen Command Post system via NG911 Grant
• Selection of LifeQuest as the new ambulance billing service

The Sawyer County Public Safety Committee approved an increase in ambulance service rates proposed by LifeQuest and voted to send the request to the Finance Committee and County Board. The motion carried without a negative vote. Other reports were received, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved ambulance rate increase and referral to Finance and County Board (unanimous)

Courthouse Construction Ad Hoc Committee

The Courthouse Construction Ad Hoc Committee will meet to receive an update on courthouse construction. A portion of the meeting will be held in a closed session to discuss and possibly take action on construction bids.

• Closed session regarding courthouse construction bid update

Zoning Committee

The committee will review several rezoning requests and conditional use applications. All public hearings for these action items have been postponed until the March 18, 2022 meeting.

• Rezoning request by Hathaway Lodge LLC in Edgewater to build lakeshore cottages
• Rezoning request by James & Rosemary Rhea in Sand Lake for mini storage units
• Conditional use request by Shaun & Stephanie Melarvie in Winter for a U-Haul dealership
• Conditional use request by Beverly Skar in Edgewater for a recreational sales and marina building
• Conditional use and rezoning requests by Pinewood Properties LLC for a 197 site RV Park

The Sawyer County Zoning Committee met on February 18, 2022, and voted unanimously to postpone the public hearing portion of the meeting to March 18, 2022, because the hearing notice was not published per Wisconsin State Statutes 985. The committee approved the January 21, 2022 minutes. No rezone or conditional use applications were considered. Discussions were held on county plat provisions, temporary shipping containers for construction, and permit extensions, but no decisions were made on these topics.

• Postponed the public hearing portion of the meeting to March 18, 2022, by unanimous vote
• Approved the January 21, 2022 meeting minutes by unanimous vote
• Held discussion on county plat provisions, with no action taken
• Held discussion on allowing temporary shipping containers for construction, with no action taken
• Held discussion on extending permits by another 6 months, with no action taken

Administration Committee

The committee will discuss appointing an interim County Administrator and reviewing construction bids for the second courtroom. The meeting also includes reports from the Veterans Service, Information Technology, and Human Resources departments.

• Appoint Interim County Administrator (discussion and possible action)
• Courthouse Construction Update: Awarding of Construction Bids (discussion and possible action)
• Ambulance Billing Provider: Credit Card Merchant Account Application - Lifequest Deposits
• Ambulance Billing Provider: New Bank Account Authorization - Lifequest Deposits

The Sawyer County Administration Committee voted to appoint Mike Keefe as Interim County Administrator effective March 11, 2022, at the same salary as the current administrator, and will forward the recommendation to the February 17th County Board meeting for approval. The committee also approved a request for a new merchant credit card and bank account for the ambulance billing service LifeQuest, to be forwarded to the County Board. Construction bids for the courtroom update were tabled to the March meeting because bids were not received on all components.

• Approved minutes of the January 20, 2022 meeting
• Approved new merchant credit card and bank account for LifeQuest ambulance billing, forwarded to County Board
• Tabled awarding of courtroom construction bids to March meeting
• Appointed Mike Keefe as Interim County Administrator effective March 11, 2022, at current administrator's salary, forwarded to County Board

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors is meeting to discuss broadband funding requests and a land trade proposal. The body will also consider awarding construction bids and appointing an interim county administrator.

• Proposed $400,000 ARPA funds for Mosaic broadband expansion
• Proposed $100,000 ARPA funds for Norvado broadband expansion
• Proposed $100,000 ARPA funds for Bevcomm broadband expansion
• Zone District Map Amendment RZN #22-001
• Cooper Land Trade Proposal

The Sawyer County Board approved three broadband expansion proposals funded by ARPA: $400,000 for Mosaic (11-2), $100,000 for Norvado (12-1), and $100,000 for Bevcomm (12-1). The board also approved a land trade with the Coopers, renewed the 2022 emergency fire warden list, and appointed Mike Keefe as Interim County Administrator.

• Approved $400,000 ARPA grant to Mosaic for broadband expansion (11-2)
• Approved $100,000 ARPA grant to Norvado for broadband expansion (12-1)
• Approved $100,000 ARPA grant to Bevcomm for broadband expansion (12-1)
• Approved Cooper land trade and resolution for county forest land exchange (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 emergency fire warden list (unanimous)
• Approved rezone of 5.40 acres from RR-1 to C-1 for commercial storage (unanimous)
• Appointed Mike Keefe as Interim County Administrator starting March 11 (unanimous)
• Approved LifeQuest credit card application and bank account for ambulance billing (unanimous)

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

The council will meet to review updates regarding the Precision Kiosk and reports from the Criminal Justice Coordinator and Community Services. The body will also consider the approval of minutes from the January 19, 2022, meeting.

• Precision Kiosk update
• Criminal Justice Coordinator update
• Community Services updates
• Approval of January 19, 2022, meeting minutes

The Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee approved the January meeting minutes with a correction to the next meeting date. Members discussed the future of the county's testing kiosk, deciding that Lt. Johnson, Judge Yackel, and JusticePoint will meet to discuss options. JusticePoint reported 56 individuals on pre-trial supervision and 216 on the wait-list. The next meeting is scheduled for April 6th.

• Approved the January meeting minutes with a correction to the next meeting date.
• Decided that Lt. Johnson, Judge Yackel, and JusticePoint will meet to discuss future use of the kiosk.
• Noted that a pre-trial specialist will start March 1st and a new case manager on March 14th.
• Scheduled the next committee meeting for April 6th at 12:00 pm.

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss and potentially take action on four ARPA purchase requests. The body will also receive a presentation from PMA Securities regarding the bond issuance process and review the Homeowner Assistance Fund program.

• ARPA purchase requests for Norvado, Bevcomm, Mosaic, and SK TV Systems
• PMA Securities presentation on bond issuance process
• Wisconsin Help for Homeowners (WHH) Participation Agreement
• DOR Annual County Sales Tax Distribution update

The Sawyer County Finance Committee approved three ARPA-funded broadband proposals totaling $600,000, forwarding them to the County Board for final approval. The committee also approved participation in a state program for homeowners behind on taxes since 2018, and discussed the upcoming bond issuance for the courthouse remodel. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $100,000 ARPA grant for Norvado broadband project (3-1)
• Approved $100,000 ARPA grant for Bevcomm broadband project (3-1)
• Approved $400,000 ARPA grant for Mosaic Technologies broadband project (3-1)
• Approved participation in Wisconsin DOA program for past-due homeowner taxes (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 13, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee reviewed the Sawyer County Airport report and its proposed Master Plan presentation. The committee also received updates regarding courtroom remodeling bids and a land swap for the courthouse project.

• Airport Master Plan presentation by Becher Hoppe Associates
• Approval of Certified Survey Map for California Avenue land swap
• Sawyer County Airport 2021 total income of $72,030.67
• Annual renewal of existing ATV/UTV routes on County Highways

The Sawyer County Public Works Committee approved the annual renewal of ATV/UTV routes on county highways and an intergovernmental mutual aid agreement with nine northwest Wisconsin counties. Both motions passed without negative votes. The committee also received reports on the airport master plan, highway operations, and maintenance projects, but took no other formal actions.

• Approved annual ATV/UTV route renewals (unanimous)
• Approved intergovernmental mutual aid agreement with NW Wisconsin counties (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 12, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee

The Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee is meeting to discuss a land trade proposal and the 2022 Emergency Fire Warden list. The body will also review reports from the Forestry, Zoning/Conservation, and DNR departments.

• Proposed trade of a 43.76-acre Sawyer County Forest parcel for a 40-acre parcel owned by Richard and Denise Cooper
• Discussion and possible action on the 2022 Emergency Fire Warden List
• Review of the Cooper Land Trade Proposal with assessed land values of $1,500/acre for both parcels
• Request for ACER Advisory Group representation
• Discussion of the Hayward Lions Pre-Birkie event on February 12, 2022

The committee approved a reworked 2017 land trade proposal involving a 40-acre parcel owned by Richard and Denise Cooper next to Hatchery Creek Park, and will forward it to the County Board for approval. They also approved the Hayward Lions Pre-Birkie event, the annual emergency fire warden list, and the previous meeting's minutes with a correction. No action was taken on the ACER Advisory Group representation request due to lack of clarification.

• Approved Cooper land trade proposal (unanimous)
• Approved Hayward Lions Pre-Birkie event (unanimous)
• Approved emergency fire warden list (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 12, 2022, with correction (unanimous)

Health & Human Services Board

The Health and Human Services Board is reviewing the 2023-2025 Community Health Improvement Plan and a Memorandum of Understanding with the Senior Resource Center. The meeting includes updates on COVID-19 data, behavioral health, and adult long-term care.

• Memorandum of Understanding between Senior Resource Center, Inc. and Sawyer County
• 2023-2025 Community Health Improvement Plan presentation
• Guardianship Policy and fee schedule including $125.00/hour for Comprehensive Court Assessment
• WIMCR report payment of $78,716.03 to be included in the 2021 budget

The Sawyer County Health and Human Services Committee approved the Community Health Improvement Plan for 2023-2022 and a Memorandum of Understanding with the Senior Resource Center. Both motions passed without negative votes. The committee also heard reports on COVID-19, meal delivery changes, and a potential relocation of the ADRC.

• Approved minutes of January 11, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Memorandum of Understanding with Senior Resource Center (unanimous)
• Approved Community Health Improvement Plan for 2023-2022 (unanimous)

Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee

The committee is meeting to receive reports from the University of Wisconsin-Extension, the Economic Development Corporation, and the Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau. The session includes updates on the county fair, library activities, and regional planning.

• Sawyer County Agricultural Fair Association report on 2022 planning and June 11 fundraiser
• Economic Development Corporation 2022 strategic goals including broadband expansion and workforce housing
• Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau marketing report and budget finalization
• University of Wisconsin-Extension report on 4-H position interviews
• Hayward Library Director's report on January and February programming

The Sawyer County Economic Development and UW-Extension Committee met on February 7, 2022, and approved the minutes from the January 10 meeting. The meeting consisted primarily of informational reports from various departments and organizations, with no substantive policy decisions made. The committee scheduled its next meeting for March 7.

• Approved minutes of January 10 meeting (unanimous)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to discuss updates on the courthouse remodel and receive reports from county justice and emergency services. The body will also consider the approval of minutes from the January 6, 2022, meeting.

• Courthouse remodel update
• Clerk of Court report showing $22,437.27 in revenue collected from 12-27-2021 to 01-25-2022
• Sheriff's Department report on a new body scanner and dispatch staffing
• Installation of Lumen Command Post 911 portable phone system scheduled for February 21-22
• Ambulance/EMS report regarding staffing shortages of four full-time EMTs

The Sawyer County Public Safety Committee approved the minutes from the January 6, 2022 meeting. Members received updates on the courthouse remodel, jail overcrowding, and the selection of LifeQuest as the new ambulance billing service. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational.

• Approved minutes of January 6, 2022 meeting (motion by Peters, second by Van Etten, carried without negative vote)

Administration Committee

The Ad Hoc Recruitment Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially take action on the County Administrator job description. The committee will also enter a closed session to consider personnel data regarding employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluations.

• Discussion and possible action on the County Administrator job description
• Closed session regarding public employee employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data

The Sawyer County Ad Hoc Recruitment Committee approved the new administrator job description as presented, with no negative votes. The committee also approved the minutes from the January 20, 2022 meeting and entered closed session to discuss employment matters, returning to open session without substantive decisions.

• Approved minutes of January 20, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved administrator job description as presented (unanimous)
• Entered closed session under Wis. Stat. § 19.85(1)(c) for employment discussion (unanimous)
• Returned to open session (unanimous)

Zoning Committee

The Zoning Committee will hold public hearings and consider a request to rezone land for a commercial storage building and a permit for a high-speed internet communication tower. The body will also discuss updated language regarding storage containers and accessory structures.

• RZN #22-001: Request to rezone 5.40 acres to commercial one (C-1) for a commercial storage building in the Town of Sand Lake
• CUP #22-002: Permit request for a communication tower for high speed internet in the Town of Hunter
• Discussion of two versions of Storage Containers & Accessory Structures ordinance revisions
• Discussion of Final Municode Proof

The Sawyer County Zoning Committee held a public hearing and approved a rezoning application in the Town of Sand Lake (RZN #22-001) to allow a commercial storage building, and a conditional use permit in the Town of Hunter (CUP #22-002) for a communication tower. The committee also voted to send a proposed ordinance change on storage containers and accessory structures to the towns for review. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved rezoning of 5.40 acres to C-1 for commercial storage in Town of Sand Lake (3-1)
• Approved conditional use permit for communication tower in Town of Hunter (4-0)
• Approved sending version 2 of storage container ordinance to towns for opinions (unanimous)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors is meeting to discuss several budget adjustments, including criminal justice and administrator recruiting fees. The body will also consider the use of ARPA funds for the Sawyer County Housing Authority and a new decontamination ordinance.

• Resolution to authorize ARPA funds for the Sawyer County Housing Authority
• Proposed Decontamination Ordinance adoption
• Resolution to increase 2022 Criminal Justice Budget for TAD Grant application
• Resolution to increase 2022 County Administrator Budget for recruiting fees
• OTC land sales in the Town of Bass Lake (#002-109-12-3300) and Town of Radisson (#176-106-04-0800)

The Sawyer County Board approved a rezone request, adopted a watercraft decontamination ordinance, approved two over-the-counter land sales, the 2022 Forestry Annual Plan, an APS Guardianship Policy, a criminal justice budget increase for a TAD grant, and $300,000 in ARPA funds for two housing duplexes. They also approved a letter of support for a Town of Hayward grant application, a certified survey map for courthouse remodeling, and a resolution to increase the county administrator budget by up to $20,000 for recruitment. The board entered closed session to discuss employment matters and returned without further action.

• Approved rezone #21-011 for Kevin, Terry & Marilyn Fischer (14-0, Olson abstained)
• Adopted Sawyer County Decontamination Ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved over-the-counter land sale #002-109-12-3300 in Town of Bass Lake (unanimous)
• Approved over-the-counter land sale #176-106-04-0800 in Town of Radisson (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Forestry Annual Plan (unanimous)
• Approved $300,000 ARPA funds for two housing duplexes on Hwy 27 South (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Town of Hayward bicycle route grant (14-1, Boettcher nay)
• Approved resolution to increase administrator budget up to $20,000 for recruitment (unanimous)

Administration Committee

The Ad Hoc Recruitment Committee will meet to discuss personnel matters. The agenda includes a closed session to consider employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data of public employees.

• Closed session regarding public employee employment, promotion, compensation, or performance evaluation data

The Sawyer County Ad Hoc Recruitment Committee met and approved the minutes from January 13. The committee entered closed session to discuss employee performance data, then returned to open session and voted to recommend hiring Public Administration Associates, LLC for the recruitment process, pending County Board approval. The next meeting is scheduled for February 3.

• Approved minutes of January 13, 2022 (unanimous)
• Entered closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(c) (5-0)
• Recommended hiring Public Administration Associates, LLC for recruitment (unanimous)

Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

The council will meet to review updates from the Criminal Justice Coordinator and community services. The body is scheduled to discuss restorative justice and the status of the Greater Hayward House of Hope and LCO Centers.

• Approval of December 1, 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussion of restorative justice
• Update on Greater Hayward House of Hope
• Update on LCO Centers
• Community services updates

The Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee met on January 19, 2022, and approved the minutes from the October meeting with a correction to the future meeting date (Wednesday instead of Tuesday). The committee received updates on pretrial and diversion caseloads, heard a restorative justice update with no action, and listened to a success story from a program participant. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved October meeting minutes with correction to future meeting date (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is reviewing budget increases for criminal justice and administrator recruitment. The body is also discussing the use of ARPA funds for the Sawyer County Housing Authority and the 2021 general fund balance.

• Proposed $102,492 increase to 2022 Criminal Justice budget for a TAD Grant
• Proposed transfer of up to $20,000 from Contingency budget for County Administrator recruitment fees
• Proposed $300,000 allocation of ARPA funds for the Sawyer County Housing Authority
• Discussion on ambulance billing vendor RFP
• Review of 2021 general fund balance and potential designations

The Sawyer County Finance Committee approved three resolutions to forward to the County Board: accepting a TAD grant for a treatment court, transferring up to $20,000 for a recruiting fee, and using $300,000 in ARPA funds for housing duplexes. All motions passed without negative votes. The committee also discussed ambulance billing vendor RFPs and projected a $750,000 transfer to HHS.

• Approved resolution to accept TAD grant and appropriate funds for treatment court (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to transfer up to $20,000 from contingency for recruiting expenses (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to use $300,000 ARPA funds for two duplexes off Hwy 27 (unanimous)

Administration Committee

The Administration Committee is meeting to review reports from the Veterans Service, Information Technology, and Human Resources departments. The committee will also discuss a Municode codification update.

• Municode codification update for county ordinances
• Veterans Service Office report noting $360,946.85 in retroactive payments for claims
• IT projects including Law Enforcement Radio Tower and Sheriff Network security
• Human Resources report listing personnel changes and recruitment for EMS and Social Worker positions

The Sawyer County Administration Committee met on January 13, 2022, and approved the minutes from the December 9, 2021, and January 6, 2022 special meetings. The committee received reports from the Veterans Service, IT, HR, and County Administrator's offices, including updates on veteran claims payments, cloud backup, ARPA rules, courthouse bids, and opioid settlement funds. No substantive policy decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved minutes of December 9, 2021, and January 6, 2022 special meeting (motion by Kinsley, second by Duffy, carried without negative vote)

Administration Committee

The committee will meet to discuss and potentially take action on a contract with Public Administration Associates (PAA). This item will be addressed in a closed session regarding employee compensation and performance data.

• Closed session to review contract with Public Administration Associates (PAA)

The Sawyer County Ad Hoc Recruitment Committee held a procedural meeting, approving the minutes from January 6, 2022, and entering a closed session to discuss personnel matters. No substantive decisions were made beyond these actions.

• Approved minutes of January 6, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Entered closed session under Wis. Stat. § 19.85(1)(c) for personnel evaluation (unanimous roll call)

Public Works Committee

The committee will review reports from the airport, highway, and maintenance departments. Members will discuss and potentially take action regarding a 40-acre parcel (Tax ID 12671) adjacent to the airport and review a Municode codification update.

• Discussion and possible action on 40-acre parcel adjacent to airport (Tax ID 12671)
• Municode codification update review
• Sawyer County Airport report including runway rehabilitation design by Becher Hoppe
• Highway Commissioner report on a new generator grant for the Hayward shop
• Maintenance report on courthouse HVAC training and Sheriff's Department office completion

The Sawyer County Public Works Committee approved a Certified Survey Map for land formerly under county ownership, now part of the California Avenue land swap for the courthouse project, and forwarded it to the County Board for approval. The committee also approved the December 8, 2021, minutes with a correction to Gary Gedart's return date. No action was recommended on a request to swap a 40-acre parcel adjacent to the airport, as the land was not suitable for expansion.

• Approved Certified Survey Map for courthouse land swap, forwarded to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved December 8, 2021 minutes with correction to Gedart's return date (unanimous)
• No action recommended on 40-acre airport-adjacent land swap request

Public Works Committee

The committee reviewed reports from the airport, highway, and maintenance departments. Members approved a one-year snowmobile trail detour on Highway M and moved to forward steel and roofing bids to the County Board for approval.

• Approved a one-year snowmobile re-route on Hwy M due to Connor’s Creek Bridge repairs
• Approved steel and roofing bids to be forwarded to the County Board
• Reported a new zero turn lawn mower purchase for the airport
• Noted a grant awarded for a new generator at the Hayward shop
• Discussed a certified survey map for California Avenue

The Sawyer County Public Works Committee approved a Certified Survey Map for land formerly under county ownership, now part of the California Avenue land swap for the courthouse project, to be recorded and forwarded to the County Board for approval. The committee also approved the December 8, 2021 minutes with a correction to Gary Gedart's return date. No action was recommended on a land swap request for a 40-acre parcel adjacent to the airport, and other reports were informational only.

• Approved Certified Survey Map for courthouse land swap (motion carried without negative vote)
• Approved December 8, 2021 minutes with correction to Gedart's return date (motion carried without negative vote)
• No action recommended on 40-acre parcel land swap request adjacent to airport

Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee

The Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee will discuss the 2022 Forestry Annual Workplan and two over-the-counter land sales. The body will also review reports from the forestry, zoning, and conservation departments.

• OTC Land Sale Town of Bass Lake #002-109-12-3300
• OTC Land Sale Town of Radisson #176-106-04-0800
• 2022 Forestry Annual Workplan
• Seeley Big Fat Race (January 22, 2022)
• Epic Mountain Bike Race (June 4 & 5, 2022)

The Sawyer County Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee approved the 2022 Forestry Annual Workplan and forwarded it to the County Board. It also recommended two over-the-counter land parcels for sale and approved two upcoming events. All motions passed without negative votes.

• Approved minutes of December 8, 2021 meeting
• Approved January 22 Seeley Big Fat Race and June 4-5 Epic Mountain Bike Race
• Recommended sale of OTC #002-109-12-3300 (Town of Bass Lake) and #176-106-04-0800 (Town of Radisson) to County Board
• Approved 2022 Forestry Annual Workplan and forwarded to County Board

Health & Human Services Board

The Health and Human Services Board is meeting to discuss a proposed Adult Protective Services guardianship policy and a Memorandum of Understanding with the Senior Resource Center, Inc. The board will also review departmental reports on behavioral health, child protective services, and public health.

• Proposed SCHHS APS Guardianship Policy and a proposed hourly rate of $125/hr
• Memorandum of Understanding between Senior Resource Center, Inc. and Sawyer County
• Review of Budget Performance Report through 11.30.21
• Public Health update on Covid risk levels and vaccine rates (55.1% of residents with at least one dose)
• Senior Resource Center job openings for drivers, bus assistants, and cooks

The Sawyer County Health and Human Services Committee approved a Guardianship Policy draft with a fee schedule, including a $125/hour Comprehensive Court Assessment, to forward to the County Board. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes and received updates on COVID-19 cases, staffing needs, and a potential ADRC relocation. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Guardianship Policy and fee schedule with addition of fee schedule j ($125/hour Comprehensive Court Assessment) (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of December 7, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee

The Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee is meeting to discuss a letter of support for a Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant. The body will also review reports from the county's agricultural fair, UW-Extension, and economic development partners.

• Discussion and possible action on a TAP Grant Letter of Support for Town of Hayward bicycle and pedestrian trails
• Review of 2021 Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau Marketing Activity Report
• Economic Development Corporation report including $15,000 funding request approval from LCO Tribal Governing Board
• Update on 16 Sawyer County businesses receiving $10,000 Wisconsin Tomorrow Main Street Bounceback Grants
• Municode codification update

The committee voted 2-1 to recommend sending a letter of support for a bike project to the County Board. Other updates were provided on the county fair, UW-Extension hiring, and economic development grants, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of December 6, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Recommended sending bike project letter of support to County Board (2-1)

Public Safety Committee

The committee reviewed various public safety reports including the Sheriff's Department, Clerk of Court, and Ambulance Service. Discussions included a courthouse remodel update and the status of law enforcement staffing.

• Courthouse remodel: steel and roofing bids to be sent to Public Works Committee
• Acceptance of Joint Powers 911 Emergency System Agreements
• Forwarding of County/Tribal Law Enforcement Assistance 2022 Grant agreement to County Board
• Ambulance Service Department RFP for new billing due January 4th

The Sawyer County Public Safety Committee approved the minutes from the December 2, 2021 meeting. Updates were provided on the Municode ordinance codification, courthouse remodel, and various department reports. The Sheriff's Department reported approval of a joint grant with LCO and the body scanner's success. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of December 2, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Reviewed Municode ordinance draft for department review before County Board approval
• Noted approval of joint grant with LCO for Sheriff's Department
• Noted TAD planning grant approval for Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

Administration Committee

The Administration Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially take action on a resolution to establish an ad hoc committee. This ad hoc committee is tasked with recruiting a new County Administrator following the upcoming retirement of Thomas R. Hoff.

• Resolution to authorize the creation of an Ad Hoc Committee to recruit a County Administrator

The Sawyer County Administration Committee approved a resolution to create an Ad Hoc Recruitment Committee, naming five county board members to serve on it. The committee was authorized by the December County Board meeting. The motion passed without any negative votes.

• Approved resolution to establish Ad Hoc Recruitment Committee (unanimous)
• Named committee members: Shuman, Kinsley, Buckholtz, Duffy, Schleeter

Administration Committee

The Ad Hoc Recruitment Committee will meet to elect a chair and vice chair. The committee will also discuss and consider possible recruitment firms.

• Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
• Discussion and possible action regarding recruitment firms
• Closed session to consider employee employment, promotion, compensation, or performance data

The Ad Hoc Recruitment Committee chose Public Administration Associates (PAA) to provide recruitment services for Sawyer County, with a cost estimate of $15,000-$17,000, and will negotiate a contract. The committee also elected Ron Kinsley as Chair and Dale Schleeter as Vice Chair. A closed session was held to discuss employment-related data, and the next meeting is scheduled for January 13.

• Elected Ron Kinsley as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Dale Schleeter as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Selected PAA for recruitment services, cost $15,000-$17,000 (unanimous)
• Authorized negotiation of contract with PAA (unanimous)
• Entered closed session per Wis. Statute §19.85(1)(c) (unanimous)
• Returned to open session (unanimous)