PUBLIC BUDGET HEARING AND SPECIAL TOWN MEETING
Chairman Terry Theis called the Public Hearing on the proposed 2019 budget to order at 6:00 p.m. at the Liberty Town Hall on Monday, November 12, 2018. Members present were Terry Theis, Adrian Amelse, Nicole Rakobitsch, Treasurer Karen Peterson, and Clerk, Lori Polhamus as well as members of the public as listed on attached attendance sheet.
Proper public notice was confirmed. Clerk reviewed each line item of the proposed budget that was prepared (copy attached and made part of these minutes) and explained the levy limit that was allowed as well as the debt service levy amount that was for the loans on the truck and tractor/mower purchase. After all questions regarding the budget were answered a motion was made by Adrian Amelse andseconded by Nicole Rakobitsch to adjourn the public hearing at 6:05 p.m.
Theis then called to order the Special town meeting of electors. The salaries of the Town officers were discussed. Current salaries are Chairperson - $2500, Supervisors - $1700, Clerk - $6000 and Treasurer - $3300. Motion by Kevin Dempsey/second by Paul Linskens to raise the Board salaries as follows: Chairperson - $3000, Supervisors - $1950, Clerk - $6250 and Treasurer - $3550 for the 2019-2020 term. All in favor. Motion carried.
Motion by Matt Hajzl/second by Kevin Dempsey to set the 2018 General town tax levy at $66,323 and a debt service levy of $16,994 for a total levy of $83,317. All in favor. Motion carried.
A discussion regarding a possible ATV ordinance for Town Roads was next on the agenda. Sergeant Luke Sellers was present to answer questions for the Vernon County Sheriff's Department. There has not been a lot of accidents or issues on the roadways as of yet. The residents on Gore Hollow do not want the Town Roads opened up for ATVs but some residents would like the County Roads opened up. A survey of those present showed three for, three maybes and six against. It was suggested to possibly do a survey or have the issue brought to referendum.
The business of the Special town meeting being completed, Carol Theis made a motion to adjourn and Kevin Dempsey seconded. All voted ayeand the Special town meeting was adjourned at 6:20 p.m.
Chairman Theis proceeded to call the regular Town meeting to order at 6:20 p.m. immediately following the adjournment of the Special town meeting and proceeded with the pledge of allegiance. Clerk read the minutes of the October 8, 2018 meeting. Motion by Amelse/second by Rakobitsch to approve the minutes as read. All in favor. Motion carried. Karen Peterson presented the Treasurer’s Report. (report attached) Beginning cash balance as of 10/1/18 was $20,077.44, and an ending cash balance as of 10/31/2018 of $18,676.74 was reported. Year to date interest on the General Fund is $21.67. Interest earned year to date on the tax account is $85.59. Total amount that is available for transfer is $65,308.70.
Under announcements, Polhamus stated we had an 89% turnout for the November election. We also have information on small business and residential loans for flood victims if needed. Amelse stated that December 10-14 FEMA will be here to go over economic support and more info will be coming. Theis thanked Carl and Orlin on the road repairs and they should be complete by the end of the week. The election officials were also thanked for their great job. There is a Fire Department Business meeting this Wednesday and the turnout gear request should be added to our December agenda. The Towns Association info from the conference can be viewed on their website.
Adopt 2019 budget - Motion by Amelse/second by Rakobitsch to approve the 2019 budget of $146,122 as discussed during the public hearing. All in favor. Motion carried. (copy attached)
Action & Approval on monthly bills -Motion by Amelse/second by Rakobitsch to pay total monthly bills of $24,163.36 plus per diems as presented. All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval on building permits (if any) – There were no permits to approve.
Public comment – Carol Theis submitted a letter to the board regarding people parking on town roads. Rakobitsch stated she will talk to the resident. Tom McInery updated the Board on the work that was done by his driveway on Elk Run. The bridge issue has been put off until spring.
Future agenda items – zoning discussion, poaching & shining ordinance, Patrolman report on future agendas and how to pay him for attending.
Motion by Amelse/second by Rakobitsch to adjourn the meeting at 7:05 P.M.
Minutes submitted by: Lori Polhamus, Town Clerk
