HomeMy WebLinkAboutCounty Board of Supervisors - Minutes - 5/25/2021
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Bayfield County Clerk
Lynn M. Divine, County Clerk
Kim Mattson, Accountant Jeran Delaine, Deputy Clerk
Gail M. Reha, Bookkeeper Paige Terry, Clerk III
Ph: 715.373.6100 ● Fx: 715.373.6153 ● Email: Lynn.Divine@bayfieldcounty.wi.gov ● 117 E. Fifth Street, PO Box 878, Washburn, WI 54891
Minutes of the:
Bayfield County Board of Supervisors’ Meeting
May 25th, 2021 4:30 p.m.
Meeting Held in the Bayfield County Board Room, Courthouse, Washburn, WI
& Remotely
The meeting of the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors was called to order at 4:30 p.m. by Bayfield
County Chairman Dennis M. Pocernich. A roll call was taken by County Clerk- Lynn Divine, as follows:
Steve Sandstrom-present; Mary Dougherty-present; Larry Fickbohm-present virtually; Charly Ray-present;
Jeremy Oswald-present virtually; Jeff Silbert-present; Brett Rondeau-present; Fred Strand-present; Tom
Snilsberg-present; Marty Milanowski-present; David Zepczyk-present; Jim Crandall-present; Dennis
Pocernich-present. Total: 13 present, 0 absent. A quorum was present to conduct business.
The following were also present for today’s meeting: County Administrator- Mark Abeles-Allison; County
Clerk- Lynn Divine; Health Director-Sara Wartman; Highway Commissioner-Paul Johanik; Human
Services Director-Elizabeth Skulan; Bayfield County Sheriff-Paul Suskienka; UW-Extension Area 1
Director-Mary Pardee virtually; UW-Extension Community Development Educator-Kellie Pederson;
Planning & Zoning Director-Rob Schierman; Veteran Services Officer-Kevin Johnson; Clerk III- Paige
Terry virtually
BAYFIELD COUNTY BOARD BUDGET PLANNING MEETING – 4:30 p.m.
3. Pledge of Allegiance: The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all in attendance.
4. Welcome and Opening Remarks:
County Board Chairman Pocernich welcomed meeting attendees and thanked them for coming.
Chairman Pocernich listed the budget as the most important task of the County Board.
Chairman Pocernich reviewed the purpose of the budget planning meeting and urged members
to actively participate in the budget process. Abeles-Allison explained the process of adopting
the budget. Abeles-Allison reviewed the board’s role in the budget process.
5. Budget Planning Introduction and Calendar:
County Administrator Mark Abeles-Allison explained the process of adopting the budget and the
County Board’s role in the budget planning process. County Clerk Lynn Divine reviewed the
budget planning calendar with the board.
6. Presentations by Highway Commissioner Paul Johanik, Human Services Director Elizabeth
Skulan and Sheriff Paul Susienka:
Highway Commissioner Paul Johanik gave a presentation for the Highway Department that
reviewed anticipated highway work to be started and completed over the next five years (2021-
2025), explained general transportation aids, and listed a history of budget totals.
Human Services Director Elizabeth Skulan gave a presentation on the 2022 budget for the
Human Services department which included explaining the various sub-departments in the
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Human Services Department, services the department provides, and the individuals that may
qualify for the services.
Bayfield County Sheriff Paul Susienka reviewed the Sheriff Office’s budget, including the
different components that make up the budget, the different challenges that affect the budget, and
recommendations for the future.
7. County Budget Survey Results and Discussion:
UW-Extension Community Development Educator Kellie Pederson reviewed the results of the
2022 budget survey with the board. The survey results indicated the top three priorities for the
community were: cell coverage and broadband service, economic development and job retention,
and groundwater and surface water resource protection. The top three Funding Priorities for
Bayfield County residents were; broadband expansion, senior services, and assistance to
businesses.
8. Budget Overview: Budget Process and How do we stand?
UW-Extension Area 1 Director Mary Pardee reviewed the purpose and process of the County’s
budget. Abeles-Allison gave a presentation to review where Bayfield County currently stands in
financial terms.
9. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding 2022 Budget Questions:
County Administrator Mark Abeles-Allison posed two questions before the County Board, the
first being; should Bayfield County levy the maximum amount under the current levy lid rule?
The second question was should Bayfield County maintain the current Highway debt-service
bond by planning to levy approximately $1.6 million again? The County Board of Supervisors
agreed to levy the maximum amount under the current levy lid rule and to plan on levying the
same amount for the Highway debt-service plan again.
10. Wrap-Up, Discussion: Chairman Pocernich omitted this item from the agenda due to the
meeting running longer than expected.
11. Adjourn:
There being no further business to come before the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors,
Chairman Pocernich adjourned the Budget Planning portion of the meeting at 6:23 p.m.
REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING OF THE BAYFIELD COUNTY BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS-Approximate Start Time: 6:00 p.m.-(6:23 p.m.)
1. Public Hearing, Bayfield County Comprehensive Plan Update:
6:24 – Chairman Pocernich closed the meeting as a whole and opened a Public Hearing for the
Bayfield County Comprehensive Plan.
Planning & Zoning Director Rob Schierman reviewed the process for updating the County
Comprehensive Plan. Schierman recommended waiting for the 2020 Census data to become
available to update the Comprehensive Plan and extend the date of the current plan until such data
is available. Abeles-Allison informed the board that there was the intention to keep the current
Bayfield County Comprehensive Plan and wait until 2022-23 to go through the formal process of
updating the plan. The Board agreed to wait for the Census data before updating the plan.
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6:25 – Chairman Pocernich closed the public hearing and reconvened the meeting of the Board of
Supervisors as a whole.
6:26 – The Board adjourned for a short recess.
6:39 – Board meeting reconvened.
2. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-38:
2021-38
A Resolution to Adopt the Comprehensive Plan Update for Bayfield
County, Wisconsin
WHEREAS, Pursuant to section 59.69(2) and (3) of the Wisconsin Statutes, Bayfield County is
authorized to prepare and adopt a comprehensive plan as defined in section 66.1001(1)(a) and
66.1001(2) of the Wisconsin Statutes; and,
WHEREAS, The County Board of Bayfield County, Wisconsin, has adopted written procedures
designed to foster public participation in every stage of the preparation of a comprehensive plan as
required by section 66.1001(4)(a) of the Wisconsin Statutes; and,
WHEREAS, The Bayfield County Board certifies that the updated Comprehensive Plan contains all of
the elements specified in section 66.1001(2) of the Wisconsin Statutes; and,
WHEREAS, The County has held at least one public hearing on this ordinance, in compliance with the
requirements of section 66.1001(4)(d) of the Wisconsin Statutes; and,
WHEREAS, The County Board of Bayfield County, Wisconsin, does, by enactment of this ordinance,
formally adopt the document entitled, "Bayfield County Comprehensive Plan 2020-2030” pursuant to
section 66.1001(4)(c) of the Wisconsin Statutes; and,
WHEREAS, This ordinance shall take effect upon passage by a majority vote of the members-elect of
the County Board ad publication as required by law.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 25th day of May 2021, does hereby adopt the updated Comprehensive Plan for Bayfield County.
Motion by Sandstrom, seconded by Milanowski to adopt Resolution No. 2021-38 A Resolution to
Adopt the Comprehensive Plan Update for Bayfield County, Wisconsin. Motion Carried, 13-0.
3. Discussion and Possible Action, Minutes from April 20th, 2021:
Motion by Milanowski, seconded by Crandall to approve the minutes from April 20th, 2021.
Motion Carried, 13-0.
4. Public Comment: None.
5. Public Health Update:
Wartman reported of an approximate total of 1,300 probable and confirmed cases of COVID-19
throughout Bayfield County. Wisconsin is currently labeled as High for disease activity level.
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Most new cases in Bayfield County are manifesting in school-age children, particularly among
toddlers. Wartman explained that, on top of COVID-19, seasonal coronavirus is also circulating
throughout Wisconsin. Bayfield County is shortening the quarantine duration from 14 days to 10
days. The Bayfield County Health Department has recommended that school students and staff
maintain mask wearing policies for the remainder of the school year since most of the students
remain unvaccinated. Wartman informed the Board that the Health Department has been able to
visit every school within the County that have students within the 12-18 age range with plans to
attempt to conduct more vaccine clinics in the future.
Discussion occurred regarding individuals that have been vaccinated, gotten sick, and the
symptoms they have presented.
Chairman Pocernich led a discussion regarding mask guidelines, particularly those pertaining to
vaccinated individuals.
6. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Updating County-Public Guidelines for COVID-
19:
Abeles-Allison reviewed the COVID-19 guidelines that County employees are currently
following. Chair Pocernich questioned how long these guidelines would be in effect. Abeles-
Allison replied that the Courthouse is in the process of coordinating with the courtroom staff for
developing a schedule to change the guidelines but anticipates the changes to occur relatively
soon. Chair Pocernich asked Abeles-Allison if the signs asking the public to call before entering
were still posted. Abeles-Allison explained that the signs are posted but will be taken down the upcoming Friday. Employees and citizens will still be allowed to wear masks, but they will no
longer be required.
7. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-33: (Tabled at the April 20, 2021 meeting.)
2021-33
Retirement of Jane Cook
WHEREAS, Jane Cook has served Bayfield County with distinction, honor and dedication in the
Human Services Department for nearly 20 years,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 20th day of April, 2021, honors Jane Cook for her 20 years of public service to Bayfield County and
expresses gratitude for her efforts, wishing her well in the years ahead.
Motion by Milanowki, seconded by Crandall to adopt Resolution No. 2021-33 In Recognition
and Appreciation of Jane Cook for 20 years of commitment and service in the Bayfield County
Human Services Office. Motion Carried, 13-0.
8. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-39:
2021-39
Retirement of Roseann “Rosie” Kozeneski
WHEREAS, Rosie Kozeneski has served Bayfield County with distinction, honor and dedication in the
Bayfield County Human Services Department for 19 years,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 25th day of May, 2021, honors Rosie Kozeneski for her 19 years of public service to Bayfield
County and expresses gratitude for her efforts, wishing her well in the years ahead.
Motion by Silbert, seconded by Crandall to adopt Resolution No. 2021-39 In Recognition and
Appreciation of Roseann “Rosie” Kozeneski for 19 years of commitment and service in the
Bayfield County Human Services Office. Motion Carried, 13-0.
9. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-40:
2021-40
Retirement of Joanne Sarver
WHEREAS, Joanne Sarver has served Bayfield County with distinction, honor and dedication in the
Bayfield County Sheriff’s Office for nearly 25 years,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 25th day of May, 2021, honors Joanne Sarver for her 25 years of public service to Bayfield County
and expresses gratitude for her efforts, wishing her well in the years ahead.
Motion by Oswald, seconded by Crandall to adopt Resolution No. 2021-40 In Recognition and
Appreciation of Joanne Sarver for 25 years of commitment and service in the Bayfield County
Sheriff’s Office. Motion Carried, 13-0.
10. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-41:
2021-41
In Recognition of Memorial Day 2021
WHEREAS, the United States government established Memorial Day in 1971 for the purpose of
honoring our men and women that have died while serving in the armed forces; and,
WHEREAS, the freedoms all U.S. citizens enjoy have been secured and protected by our military
heroes from the Revolutionary War through today’s ongoing confrontations around the world; and,
WHEREAS, sons and daughters of Bayfield County have made this ultimate sacrifice; and,
WHEREAS, May 31st, 2021 is federally recognized as Memorial Day.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 25th day of May 2021, hereby designates May 31st, 2021 as Memorial Day in respectful
remembrance of the men and women that have given their lives to the protection of our Nation.
Motion by Crandall, seconded by Rondeau to adopt Resolution No. 2021-41: In Recognition of
Memorial Day 2021. Motion Carried, 13-0.
The Board watched a short Memorial Day video prepared by the Bayfield County Veterans
Services Department.
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11. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-42:
2021-42
Adding a Specific Reference in Wis. Stat. §70.11(2) to Property Owned by
Regional Planning Commissions as Exempt from Real Property Taxes
WHEREAS, Regional Planning Commissions are created pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 66.0309 by the
Governor upon petition of local units of government and are comprised of Counties and other
Municipalities located within their defined geographical area; and,
WHEREAS, Regional Planning Commissions are granted broad powers in order to address the
“physical, social and economic development of the region”, which may include holding title to real
property for such purposes; and,
WHEREAS, Member Counties provide funds annually to Regional Planning Commissions for the
purpose of meeting operational expenses pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 66.0309(14); and,
WHEREAS, Dissolution of Regional Planning Commissions requires that “all outstanding indebtedness
of the commission has been paid and all unexpended funds returned to the local units which supplied
them” pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 66.0309(15); and,
WHEREAS, Regional Planning Commissions are therefore a direct instrument of and created for the
benefit of the counties and municipalities that fund them; and,
WHEREAS, all Real Property, including Real Property owned by Wisconsin Regional Planning
Commissions, is subject to the application of Wis. Stat. § 70.11 for the purpose of obtaining property tax
exempt status; and,
WHEREAS, because Wis. Stat. § 70.11(2) specifically references other joint “districts” of
communities, such as joint water authorities created under § 66.0823, but not specifically planning
commissions created under § 66.0309, ambiguity exists as to whether or not planning commissions
qualify for exemption under § 70.11(2); and,
WHEREAS, Regional Planning Commissions are created by local units of government and its assets
are constructively assets of those local units of government.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 25th day of May 2021, to rectify the existing ambiguity in Wis. Stat. 70.11(2) the following language
be added to specifically include Regional Planning Commissions as an additional exemption under this
statute: “regional planning commissions created under Wis. Stat. 66.0309”; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Bayfield County strongly encourages and supports the State
Legislature in amending Wis. Stat. § 70.11(2) to include a specific reference of Regional Planning
Commissions as exempt entities for the purpose of real property taxation; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be sent to the Wisconsin Counties
Association, Senator Bewley, Representative Meyers, and the other members of the Northwest Regional
Planning Commission.
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Motion by Crandall, seconded by Rondeau to adopt Resolution No. 2021-42 Adding a Specific
Reference in Wis. Stat. §70.11(2) to Property Owned by Regional Planning Commissions as
Exempt from Real Property Taxes. Motion Carried, 13-0.
12. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Northwest Regional Planning, CDBG-CV
Contract for Administering Projects:
Abeles-Allison reviewed the contract provided by the NWRPC, who will be administering the
funds/projects received for the CDBG-CV.
Motion by Crandall, seconded by Silbert to adopt the Northwest Regional Planning Commission,
CDBG-CV Contract for Administering Projects. Roll Call Vote: Fickbohm-yes; Oswald-yes;
Strand-yes; Snilsberg-yes; Sandstrom-yes; Zepczyk-yes; Silbert-yes; Ray-yes; Dougherty-yes;
Rondeau-yes; Milanowski-yes; Crandall-yes; Pocernich-yes. Motion Carried, 13-0.
Abeles-Allison informed the board that there was a press release scheduled for the upcoming
week to announce both the rental assistance and business assistance programs.
13. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-43:
Abeles-Allison reviewed highway work that would be covered by the grant.
2021-43
Supporting and Authorizing Matching Funds for Bayfield County
“RAISE” Grant Project on County Highways A & N
WHEREAS, Bayfield County maintains 172 miles of county highways; and,
WHEREAS, Forestry is a critical industry for Bayfield County; and,
WHEREAS, Bayfield County annually places road weight limit restrictions on county highways during
the spring break-up to protect roads which negatively impact the ability of the logging industry to access
and transport forest product; and,
WHEREAS, County Highways A and N provide access to thousands of acres of forestland that supplies
timber for forest products; and,
WHEREAS, funding for highways is important. Scare resources make funding difficult. Bayfield
County has annually dedicated additional resources to highway projects; and,
WHEREAS, over the past five years both the Bayfield County Board and the Citizens of Bayfield
County have ranked Highways as a top priority of the County during the annual budget process and
budget survey; and,
WHEREAS, maintenance and upkeep of roadways are of regional concern to support the forest
industry; and,
WHEREAS, alternate funding mechanisms are important to supplement the county’s ability to properly
maintain county roads; and,
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WHEREAS, Bayfield County has proposed a “replace in kind” construction method to keep costs to a
minimum; and,
WHEREAS, the US Department of Transportation RAISE program offers matching funds for economic
development projects and in May 2021 the Bayfield County Board authorized submittal of an
application to the RAISE grant program for reconstruction of County Highways A and N to all season
road standards; and,
WHEREAS, the estimated cost for the project is $12 million dollars encompassing 16 miles of county
highway reconstruction including Bayfield County contributing $1 million to convert the recently
reconstructed six mile section of County Highway N from A to Highway 27 making it an All-Season
Road; and,
WHEREAS, this improvement project would have a significant economic development impact on
Bayfield County Communities and businesses in addition to improving safety and reducing maintenance
costs.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 25th day of May 2021, will commit and hereby encumbers $2 million toward this project over a
period of up to seven years; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Bayfield County has previously supported efforts at the state
level to raise additional funds for county highway reconstruction and that the Bayfield County Board
hereby petitions the Governor, the Assembly, and the Senate of the State of Wisconsin to pursue
supplemental funding for county highways in Wisconsin.
Motion by Milanowski, seconded by Zepczyk to adopt Resolution No. 2021-43 Supporting and
Authorizing Matching Funds for Bayfield County “RAISE” Grant Project on County Highways
A & N.
Ray questioned why the cost of the road repairs listed in this resolution were nearly double the
budgeted numbers listed in the previous budget meeting. Abeles-Allison answered that the work
listed in the resolution would include an addition 1.5 inches of asphalt, along with estimated
culvert work.
Motion Carried, 13-0.
14. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Bayfield County Resolutions for Wisconsin
Counties Association Platform:
Information was provided regarding the following six Wisconsin Counties Association (WCA)
Resolutions by County Administrator, Abeles-Allison. The resolutions are being proposed to the
WCA for legislature consideration.
a) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-44 Supporting a Change in State Regulations and
Legislation to Require Meaningful Local Input in the Siting of Concentrated Animal
Feeding Operations (CAFOs);
2021-44
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Supporting a Change in State Regulations and Legislation to Require
Meaningful Local Input in the Siting of Concentrated Animal Feeding
Operations (CAFOs)
WHEREAS, Bayfield County recognizes and values the role of agriculture to Wisconsin and Bayfield
County and our rural communities; and,
WHEREAS, Bayfield County supports our agricultural history, culture and way of life; and,
WHEREAS, Bayfield County supports Sustainable Agriculture; and,
WHEREAS, CAFO’s because of their size can change the character and culture of our rural
communities; and,
WHEREAS, CAFO’s can diminish adjacent property values because of strong odors, noise and traffic;
and,
WHEREAS, CAFO’s may contaminate community water resources even when following Best
Management Practices; and,
WHEREAS, the unique geographic and water resources throughout Wisconsin make it necessary to
assess the environmental impacts of CAFO’s on a county –by–county basis; and,
WHEREAS, the decision on siting CAFO’s is predominately made by the Department of Agriculture
Trade and Consumer Protection [Livestock Siting Law ATCP 51] with very little local input; and,
WHEREAS, State Law preempts local governments from regulating CAFO’s in a more stringent, and
safer manner and with a standard more protective of the local community; and,
WHEREAS, Bayfield County supports the long held value of meaningful local control which supports
local resident’s and the community’s ability to participate and provide input into local land uses,
including the siting and permitting of CAFO’s.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 25th day of May 2021, supports the efforts and ability of local residents and local governing bodies
to participate in and provide meaningful authoritative input into the siting, permitting and development
of CAFO’s; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Bayfield County supports and urges the state to make the
necessary changes to the laws and regulations to allow the maximum amount of input by local
communities who are most impacted by the siting and development of Concentrated Animal Feeding
Operation thus providing rural residential consistency and environmental certainty.
b) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-45 Support Medicaid Expansion:
2021-45
Support Medicaid Expansion
WHEREAS, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) established a program of Medicaid expansion, whereby in
exchange for increased federal matching funds, states could elect to expand the number of individuals
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covered under state administered Medicaid programs, but historically the state of Wisconsin has
declined Medicaid expansion funds; and,
WHEREAS, expansion of Medicaid in Wisconsin would increase the eligibility income level from
100% of federal poverty level ($12,880 for a household of one and $26,500 for a household of four) to
138% federal poverty level ($17,774 for household of one and $36,570 for a household of four); and,
WHEREAS, Wisconsin’s population is aging and more seniors will require care and services in the
future; and,
WHEREAS, current state estimates indicate another 90,000 individuals including some seniors on fixed
incomes in Wisconsin will qualify for Medicaid if expanded; and,
WHEREAS, expansion of Medicaid would improve the health, wellbeing, and productivity of
thousands of residents in the areas of preventive services, prenatal care, opioid and other drug treatment,
behavior health, crisis intervention, lead poisoning, treatment of chronic disease, dental health, and
support for the elderly and people with disabilities thus providing for a healthier population and more
productive workforce; and,
WHEREAS, Medicaid expansion is included in the Governor’s 2021-2023 budget and is anticipated to
increase the state’s revenues by approximately $1 billion during the biennium; and,
WHEREAS, Medicaid expansion dollars will be used to expand healthcare services in the areas of
healthcare equity, behavior health, public health, and long-term care.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 25th day of May 2021, request that Wisconsin Counties Association support the expansion of
Medicaid and consider adoption of this resolution as part of their policy platform.
c) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-46 Support for Wolf Conservation in Wisconsin:
2021-46
Support for Wolf Conservation in Wisconsin
WHEREAS, the gray wolf has recently been removed from the Federal Endangered Species List in
Wisconsin on January 4, 2021, the fourth time such delisting has occurred since 2007; and,
WHEREAS, with the Federal delisting management authority for wolves is returned to the State of
Wisconsin and Indian Tribes within the state; and,
WHEREAS, management of wolves in the State of Wisconsin is in a state of change; and,
WHEREAS, wolves are a native wildlife species and Wisconsin has been home for wolves for
thousands of years; and,
WHEREAS, the wolf is a social animal that live in packs which are family units; and,
WHEREAS, the Native American Tribes in the state of Wisconsin hold the wolf in extremely high
regard; and,
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WHEREAS, the wolf hunt of February 2021 was poorly managed and portrayed the state of Wisconsin
in a detrimental way throughout the nation and caused major disruption to many wolf packs throughout
the state.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 25th day of May 2021, recommends that the Wisconsin Counties Association urge the State of
Wisconsin to manage gray wolf populations conservatively by maintaining the population within 2016-
2020 levels until a new wolf conservation plan is developed and approved by the Natural Resources
Board. To do so we recommend that the Wisconsin DNR:
• Resume work immediately on developing a new state wolf conservation plan using the best
science and public attitudes data available on wolves.
• Create an inclusive and transparent wolf governance process that reflects public perceptions and
incorporates the latest social and ecological science to inform decisions around wolf
management activities, and especially around wolf hunting and trapping.
• Recognize tribal sovereignty and respect the cultural views of wolves held by Native American
tribes through meaningful collaboration.
• Consult with tribes within wolf range to designate buffer zones around reservations that would
prohibit wolf harvest to better protect packs on tribal lands and contribute to wolf conservation.
• Continue to support citizen science efforts to monitor Wisconsin’s wolf population through
winter track surveys, summer howl surveys, encourage public reporting of wolf observations,
and programs such as Snapshot Wisconsin. Engage WDNR’s existing volunteer base to help
continue vital winter track surveys and summer howl surveys; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Bayfield County recommends that the Legislature modify the
Wisconsin wolf hunting and trapping regulations and return such authority to the DNR as follows:
• Restore adequate funding and authority for wolf hunting and trapping to WDNR.
• Remove the current statutory mandate that a harvest must occur once wolves are delisted;
instead, leaving the authorization of a harvest, its duration, methods of take and regulation to the
WDNR with strong public input.
• Allow WDNR, with public input, to decide portions of the state that would be open for
a wolf harvest or identify areas that should be closed to harvest for ecological, scientific,
conservation, or cultural purposes.
Sandstrom led a discussion on a bulleted point under the Now, Therefore be it Resolved
clause, “Resume work immediately on developing a new state wolf conservation plan using
the best science and public attitudes data available on wolves,” stating that the phrase “and
public attitudes data” should be removed. The Board Supervisors agreed that the change
should be made.
d) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-47 Conduct Additional Research on Chronic
Wasting Disease to Improve Testing, Treatment, and Management Options:
2021-47
Conduct Additional Research on Chronic Wasting Disease to Improve
Testing, Treatment, and Management Options
WHEREAS, Chronic Wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal neurological disease of cervids which threatens
to cause significant economic, cultural and ecological damage to Wisconsin’s deer and elk populations;
and,
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WHEREAS, a better understanding of CWD is needed to develop better management tools; and,
WHEREAS, current funding and research levels are not commensurate to the threat posed by CWD;
and,
WHEREAS, since the discovery of CWD in Wisconsin in 2001 it is now found in wild deer in 33
counties and has been found in over 25 captive cervid farms; and,
WHEREAS, in the most highly infected areas of Dane and Iowa counties the prevalence rate in adult
males is about 50% and in adult females is about 35%; and,
WHEREAS, the Wisconsin Department of Health, the Center for Disease Control, and the World
Health Organization all recommend that cervid meat only be eaten after the animal harvested has tested
negative for CWD; and,
WHEREAS, in 2020 over 800,000 gun and archery deer hunting licenses were sold in Wisconsin,; and,
WHEREAS, according to a study, hunters in Wisconsin spent $2.5 billion in 2011. Eighty-eight percent
of the hunters in Wisconsin participated in deer hunting, making it the most popular form of hunting in
the state.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 25th day of May 2021, recommends that the Wisconsin Counties Association urge the State
Legislature to fund and direct state agencies to conduct the following research and in order to better
manage CWD:
• Develop a reliable, rapid, and easy to administer CWD test that can be conducted on live cervids.
• Develop a reliable, rapid, and easy to administer CWD test that can be implemented in the field
on harvested cervids that will provide immediate test results.
• Develop a vaccine for CWD.
• Develop a cure for CWD infected cervids.
• Breed inheritable resistance to CWD in captive cervids such that the cervids do not carry or shed
CWD prions.
• Determine CWD prion longevity and virulence in contaminated soil, feed, and crops under a
wide range of environmental conditions.
• Develop a better understanding of CWD prion movement in the environment once outside of
cervids
• Expand monitoring of wild cervids in CWD endemic zones to better understand the effect of
CWD on cervid populations.
• Conduct epidemiological assessment of CWD prions on human health including whether humans
are already carriers of CWD prions, the likelihood of CWD prions infecting humans and causing
disease, and the impact of eating CWD positive cervids.
• Conduct additional research to determine the viability and methodology for composting CWD
infected cervids.
Sandstrom led a discussion on a bulleted point under the Now, Therefore be it Resolved
clause, “Develop a vaccine for CWD,” explaining that the word “cervid” should be inserted
before the word “vaccine” to prevent confusion regarding if the vaccine would be intended
for humans or cervids. The Board Supervisors agreed that the change should be made.
e) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-48 Enact Stronger Regulations to Limit the
Spread of Chronic Wasting Disease:
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2021-48
Enact Stronger Regulations to Limit the Spread of Chronic Wasting
Disease
WHEREAS, Chronic Wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal neurological disease of cervids which threatens
to cause significant economic, cultural and ecological damage to Wisconsin’s deer and elk populations;
and,
WHEREAS, since its discovery in Wisconsin in a deer harvested in 2001 it has now spread to wild deer
in 33 counties and has been found in over 25 captive cervid farms; and,
WHEREAS, in the most highly infected areas of Dane and Iowa counties the prevalence rate in adult
males is about 50 percent and in adult females is about 35 percent; and,
WHEREAS, the Wisconsin Department of Health, the Center for Disease Control, and the World
Health Organization all recommend that cervid meat only be eaten after the animal harvested has tested
negative for CWD; and,
WHEREAS, in 2020 over 800,000 gun and archery deer hunting licenses were sold in Wisconsin; and,
WHEREAS, according to a study, hunters in Wisconsin spent $2.5 billion in 2011. Eighty-eight percent
of the hunters in Wisconsin participated in deer hunting, making it the most popular form of hunting in
the state; and,
WHEREAS, with no known cure or preventative vaccine, the only option currently available to manage
CWD is to aggressively limit the transmission and spread of CWD; and,
WHEREAS, current regulations do not adequately limit the human assisted transmission of CWD.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 25th day of May 2021, recommends that the Wisconsin Counties Association urge the State
Legislature to make the following changes to State Statutes and supporting Administrative Rules:
• Change ATCP 10.56(1) to eliminate the exceptions that allow the transport of live cervids
without a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection.
• Change NR 10.105(7) to prohibit the export of cervid carcasses which have any part of the spinal
column or head attached from CWD affected areas in which wild or captive cervids have tested
positive for CWD within the last 10 years.
• Enact new rules to require the disposal of harvested cervids carcasses in approve landfills,
rendering, or composting facilities.
• Enact new rules to prohibit the export of live cervids from areas within 10 miles of a known
positive CWD detection within the last 5 years.
• Enact new rules to require all captive cervid operation to install either solid perimeter or double
fencing.
• Once a reliable live animal CWD test has been develop, enact rules to prohibit the transport of
live cervids unless the animal tests negative of CWD.
f) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2021-49 Supporting Changes in State Regulations and
Legislation to Support Rural Emergency Medical Services in Rural Areas:
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2021-49
Supporting Changes in State Regulations and Legislation to Support
Rural Emergency Medical Services in Rural Areas
WHEREAS, many rural areas have primarily volunteer service providers; and,
WHEREAS, the aging of rural populations together with declining working populations has further
exasperated the situation; and,
WHEREAS, increasingly Counties are seen as the provider for EMS Services; and,
WHEREAS, regardless of the location, more area providers helps ensure quick life saving emergency
medical care; and,
WHEREAS, Bayfield County believes that Counties must join with municipalities to ensure a strong
EMS network thrives.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 25th day of May 2021, requests that the WCA plays an active role in supporting rural EMS
initiatives including but not limited to:
A. Allowing for towns to fund EMS using the same options available to fund fire protection under
§60.55(2). This would allow towns to move EMS to a fee across the community. Like with fire,
it would need to come with a negative levy limit penalty back to what was spent on EMS in
2013.
B. Create a definition of Joint EMS District that encompasses how towns collaborate to obtain EMS
service. The definition should include when two or more communities engage in: a) joint
ownership; b) joint purchase of services from a non-profit corporation; and c) joint contracting
with a public or private provider. This would allow use of the 2% + CPI revenue flexibility.
This flexibility is afforded to fire and was created for EMS last session; however, due to the
differences between how fire and EMS are provided the flexibility remains much greater for fire.
C. Sparsity Aid. On a per land base basis.
D. Increase FAP funding (LRB-0719).
E. Develop a funding source to pay for would-be EMT training and travel associated with obtaining
training.
F. Recalibrate the shared revenue formula to increase funding to rural areas.
G. Fully fund Length of Service Award.
H. Providing a $1,000 income tax credit for volunteer fire/EMS personnel.
I. Providing a $400 income tax credit for unreimbursed volunteer fire/EMS expenses.
J. Providing a college tuition reimbursement for volunteer fire/EMS personnel or their families.
K. Providing a business tax incentive for those businesses that allow volunteer fire/EMS personnel
to leave their job during the workday.
L. LRB-0720 EMR not required to take NREMT.
M. LRB-0721 Ambulance Staffing: 1) FAP funding streamlining; 2) interfacility transport staffing;
c) clarifies Act 97 from 2017 on flexible staffing; and 4) prohibits career departments from
forbidding someone from volunteering.
N. Investigate a regional joint EMS district. Alternatively, investigate a county-wide EMS,
including the potential to simply have the county facilitate expenditures to contract with multiple
public and private providers as a way to address the hurdle of levy limits.
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O. Change the levy limit law to allow for the levy limit to not apply to both countywide EMS and a
joint EMS district encompassing a larger area. The county boundary is an artificial one. For
example, in Florence County this means only 8 towns whereas in Marathon County it means 61
towns, cities, and villages and a lot more land area. Furthermore, a county boundary does not
take into consideration road infrastructure, topography, landscape, etc.
P. Examine the training requirements, strengths/weaknesses of replacing the National Registry Test,
why some states/areas of WI do better or worse on the current test.
Q. Investigate if EMS personnel that are not affiliated with a service are prevented from assisting on
a call with another service.
R. Develop a “reverse TIF” to fund EMS based on the rationale that “but for” EMS investment,
property values will decrease; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Bayfield County this 25th day of May 2021 requests that the
Wisconsin Counties Association supports the above legislation and regulations assisting Rural
Emergency Medical Services to survive and thrive in this changing economy.
Motion by Silbert, seconded by Sandstrom to adopt Resolutions No. 2021-44, No. 2021-45, No.
2021-46, No. 2021-46, No. 2021-47, No. 2021-48, No. 2021-49 Wisconsin Counties Association
Resolutions with the one change being made to Resolution No. 2021-46 and one change being
made to Resolution No. 2021-47. Motion Carried, 13-0.
15. Bayfield County Amendatory Ordinance No. 2021-02:
Divine reviewed previous errors made regarding the numbering of ordinance chapters in the
Bayfield County Code of Ordinances.
Motion by Rondeau, seconded by Milanowski to adopt Amendatory Ordinance No. 2021-02
Codification Ordinance Amendments Renumbering and Inclusion. Motion Carried, 13-0.
16. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding American Rescue Act Projects;
Abeles-Allison reviewed projects submitted for the American Rescue Act Funding. Abeles-
Allison listed the following four projects that are recommended for the Board’s approval: HVAC
improvements at the Courthouse, a new backup generator and the replacement of sewer pipes at
Northern Lights, broadband expansion, and additional staff and COVID-19 capabilities for the
Health Department.
Project Totals:
HVAC Improvements $600,000
Northern Lights $250,000
Broadband $261,400
Health Staffing and Testing $ 86,000
Total: $1,197,400
Pocernich suggested Bayfield County cover the entire cost of the Northern Lights projects and
not require the facility to contribute, which would bring that project’s total to $300,000. The
Board agreed to put forward the entire $300,000.
Discussion took place regarding the need to provide more staff to the Health Department. It was
decided that a new staff member for the Health Department would be hired on contract rather
than budgeted for the department.
Motion by Dougherty, seconded by Sandstrom to approve the four listed American Recovery Act
Projects for the following amounts: Courthouse HVAC Improvements-$600,000, Northern
Lights-$300,000, Broadband-$261,400, Health Department Staffing and Testing-contracted.
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Roll Call Vote: Sandstrom-yes; Strand-yes; Crandall-yes; Dougherty-yes; Silbert-yes; Ray-yes;
Snilsberg-yes; Zepczyk-yes; Fickbohm-yes; Oswald-yes; Rondeau-yes; Milanowski-yes;
Pocernich-yes. Motion Carried, 13-0.
17. Reports;
a) Courthouse Mask / Signage Status Update: The item was discussed earlier in the meeting
under items 5 and 6.
b) Future County Board Meeting Dates:
a. June 29, 2021
b. July 27, 2021
c. August 31, 2021
c) EMS Ad Hoc Committee Update; Abeles-Allison reported an overall positive response
towards the idea of starting a committee and the topic will be discussed further at the next
meeting. Abeles-Allison explained that a couple of volunteers from the County Board will need
to volunteer for the committee.
18. Supervisors’ Reports; None.
19. Adjournment: There being no further business to come before the Bayfield county Board of
Supervisors, Chairman Pocernich adjourned the meeting at 8:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
LYNN M. DIVINE
Bayfield County Clerk
LMD/pat