HomeMy WebLinkAboutCounty Board of Supervisors - Minutes - 5/31/2022
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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 31, 2022 4:00 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 4:02 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-absent; Charly Ray-present; Jeremy
Oswald-present virtually; Jeff Silbert-present virtually; Fred Strand-present; Jeanna Penney-present; Marty
Milanowski-present; Madelaine Rekemeyer-present; Jim Crandall-present; Brett Rondeau-absent; Dennis
Pocernich-present. Total: 11 present, 2 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 M. Divine; Clerk of Court- Kay Cederberg; Corporation Counsel- John Carlson via phone;
Human Services Director- Elizabeth Skulan virtually; Emergency Management Director- Meagan
Quaderer virtually; Northwoods Technical College President- John Will; Northern Great Lakes Visitor
Center Director- Hilary Markin virtually; and Clerk III- Paige Terry virtually.
BAYFIELD COUNTY BUDGET PLANNING AGENDA – 4:00 p.m.
3. Pledge of Allegiance: The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all in attendance.
4. Welcome and Opening Remarks: Chairman Pocernich welcomed the board to the budget
process of the meeting and recommended each supervisor attends the budget planning meetings
later in the Fall.
4:15 p.m. – Larry Fickbohm joined the meeting.
5. 2023 Budget Planning and Board Survey: Abeles-Allison reviewed the budget planning
presentation with the board which included expenditure and revenue changes over the past five
years. The Forestry and Parks Department will begin collecting revenue from a forest carbon
offset project. Abeles-Allison explained the forestry carbon offset project. The county currently
has $6.2 million in unassigned fund balances. Staffing levels have increased with 175 full-time
and 32 part-time employees currently employed. Abeles-Allison listed all the projects that have
been approved for ARPA funding and informed the board that the county has $174,000 in ARPA
funds that is unassigned. Crisis situations within the county have been identified, housing
shortages, emergency medical services challenges, and staffing shortages. In 2022, the board
supervisors identified groundwater and surface water resource protection, services for seniors
and nursing home support, and public health services as the top three funding priorities. Abeles-
Allison reviewed the budget process and calendar with the board and asked the supervisors to
complete a survey that would rank what topics should be the funding focus areas for 2023.
6. Wrap-Up Discussion: Chairman Pocernich dispensed with the item due to time constraints of the
meeting.
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7. Adjourn: Chairman Pocernich adjourned the budget planning meeting at 5:42 p.m. for a dinner
break.
5:50 p.m. – Jeremy Oswald left the meeting.
6:01 p.m. – Chairman Pocernich reconvened the meeting for the monthly scheduled meeting.
Regular Monthly Meeting of the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors
BAYFIELD COUNTY BOARD MEETING AGENDA – Approximate Start Time: 6:00 p.m.
1. Discussion and Possible Action, Minutes from April 19, 2022:
Motion by Milanowski, seconded by Sandstrom to approve the Minutes of the Monthly Bayfield
County Board of Supervisors Meeting held on April 19, 2022. Motion carried, 11-0, 2 absent.
6:02 p.m. – Brett Rondeau joined the meeting virtually.
2. Public Comment: Emergency Management Director, Meagan Quaderer, gave an update
regarding the missing person from the Cable/Drummond area and stated that, after days of
searching, the person remains missing with no indication of where they may have gone.
3. Sheriff Candidate Introductions, Tony Williams: Tony Williams introduced himself to the
board and gave a history of his law enforcement career. Williams has spent 30 years in law
enforcement and started his career with the Bayfield Police Department in 1992. Over his 30-
year career, Williams has worked as a deputy, jailer, investigator, and police chief in numerous
law enforcement departments.
4. Presentation, Northwoods Technical College: John Will, President of Northwoods Technical
College introduced himself to the board. Will gave the board a history on the college’s origins
and reviewed the highest paying careers covered by the current curriculum.
5. Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center Annual Report: Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center
Director, Hilary Markin, gave the annual report for the Center. During the COVID-19 pandemic,
the Center limited available services, but is now letting more visitors into the Center. The Center
is currently reviewing their management plan, which was developed and implemented in 1999
and have set a goal for the end of the year to have the updates completed. In 2023, the Center
will be turning 25 years old. Markin reviewed different events and activities that the Center will
be holding.
6. Clerk of Court Annual Report 2021: Kay Cederberg gave the 2021 Clerk of Court annual
report. Total department revenues were $324,532 and total department expenses were
$459,854.34 with a total of 3,366 cases filed in 2021.
Motion by Crandall, seconded by Milanowski to receive and place on file the 2021 annual report
of the Clerk of Court’s Office. Motion carried, 12-0, 1 absent.
7. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-47:
Recognizing June as PRIDE Month in Bayfield County
WHEREAS, the County Board joins in the Recognition of June as LGBTQ+ PRIDE Month, which was
born out of the Stonewall uprising in New York City on June 28, 1969, and
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WHEREAS, Bayfield County supports the rights of every citizen to experience equality and freedom
from discrimination; and,
WHEREAS Wisconsin was the first state to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation in
employment, housing, education, credit and all public accommodations; and,
WHEREAS, LGBTQ+ people have struggled with adversity to achieve full inclusion in American
society, and
WHEREAS, Unnamed LGBTQ+ people across many centuries have held careers and raised families in
Bayfield County.
WHEREAS, All peoples regardless of age, gender identity or expression, race, ethnicity, religion,
marital status, national origin, sexual orientation or physical abilities have the right to be treated on the
basis of their intrinsic value as human beings; and,
WHEREAS Bayfield County personnel policies prohibit discrimination in any form; and,
WHEREAS, Being a place that is perceived as open, safe and accessible to people of diverse
backgrounds is critical to ensure Bayfield County’s future prosperity; and,
WHEREAS, Inclusion is a fundamental component of economic success; and,
WHEREAS, Bayfield County can set a positive example for our communities in ensuring all peoples
respect;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, does hereby recognize the month of June as PRIDE Month in Bayfield
County.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that residents will live and work together with
a commitment to mutual respect and understanding, embracing contributions of LGBTQ+ people in
Bayfield County.
Motion by Silbert, seconded by Sandstrom to adopt Resolution No. 2022-47 Recognizing June as
PRIDE Month in Bayfield County. Motion carried, 12-0, 1 absent.
8. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-48:
Retirement of Edward McKillip
WHEREAS, Edward McKillip has served Bayfield County with distinction, honor and dedication in the
Bayfield County Sheriff’s Office for 21 years,
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, honors Edward McKillip for his 21 years of public service to Bayfield
County and expresses gratitude for his efforts, wishing him well in the years ahead.
Motion by Fickbohm, seconded by Ray to adopt Resolution No. 2022-48 In Recognition and
Appreciation of Edward McKillip for 21 Years of Dedication and Service to the Bayfield County
Sheriff’s Office. Motion carried, 12-0, 1 absent.
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9. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-49:
Approval of Public Participation Plan for Bayfield County Comprehensive Plan
Revision
WHEREAS, the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors has approved of the formation of the
Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (CPAC) to guide the work of revising the County's
Comprehensive Plan in accordance with Wis. Stats, s. 66.1001; and,
WHEREAS, Wis. Stats, s. 66.1001(4)(a) requires that the County adopt written procedures that are
designed to foster public participation, including open discussion, communication programs,
information services, and public meetings for which advance notice has been provided, in every stage of
the preparation of a comprehensive plan; and,
WHEREAS, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic may necessitate the use a wide variety of tools to
effectively engage the public, communicate the recommendations of the CPAC, and gather broad public
feedback throughout the Comprehensive Plan Process;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, approves the attached Public Participation Plan for the Comprehensive Plan
Update; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee is tasked with the
implementation of the attached Public Participation Plan.
Motion by Milanowski, seconded by Crandall to adopt Resolution No. 2022-48 Approval of
Public Participation Plan for Bayfield County Comprehensive Plan Revision. Motion carried,
12-0, 1 absent.
10. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-50:
Authorizing the Formation of the Bayfield County Comprehensive Plan Committee
WHEREAS, Bayfield County will be amending its comprehensive plan in accordance with state
statutes; and,
WHEREAS, the proposed update will include revisions to all plan text, statistical and projection data,
maps, goals, objectives, policies and actions, meeting attendance and distribution of required
information to adjoining and overlapping jurisdictions as specified within Wisconsin State Statute
66.1001 and the adopted public participation plan; and,
WHEREAS, Bayfield County recognizes that the acceptance and success of the Bayfield County
Comprehensive Plan Update rests on the direct involvement, support, and effort of the citizens of
Bayfield County;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, designates the following members of the Comprehensive Planning
Committee:
• County Board members (4): Steve Sandstrom, Charly Ray, Mary Dougherty, Jim Crandall
• Planning and Zoning Representative: Ruth Hulstrom or designee
• Land and Water Conservation: Ben Dufford or designee
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• Bayfield County Forestry: Jason Bodine or designee
• US Forest Service: Designee
• Economic Development: Cole Rabska
• Transportation: Bob Anderson or designee
• Members of the Public (2)
o Keith Koenning, Town of Clover
o Barb Thorpe, Town of Iron River
• UWEX: Kellie Pederson
• County Administrator
Fickbohm asked what the meeting schedule would look like for the committee. Abeles-Allison
explained that the Northwest Regional Planning Commission recommended seven to eight
meetings over the next 12 months.
Motion by Milanowski, seconded by Dougherty to adopt Resolution No. 2022-50 Authorizing the
Formation of the Bayfield County Comprehensive Plan Committee. Motion carried, 12-0, 1
absent.
11. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-51:
Sale and Transfer of County Lands on the Red Cliff Reservation to the Red Cliff
Band of Lake Superior Chippewa
WHEREAS, Bayfield County and the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa have a long-standing
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) regarding land and the importance of reservation land returned
to the Tribe; and,
WHEREAS, one goal of the County-Tribal Relations Committee is to facilitate the repatriation of
county owned lands located within the reservation to the Tribe, as per the MOU, while fostering mutual
respect and cooperation; and,
WHEREAS Bayfield County owns approximately 858 acres of land on the reservation, this includes
county forest lands (approximately 706 acres) and non-forestry lands (approximately 152 acres); and,
WHEREAS, Bayfield County and Red Cliff have come to an agreement on the transfer of all of the
county forest lands to Red Cliff for $1 million along with the 152 acres of non-forestry land; and,
WHEREAS, Bayfield County has received authorization from the County Board of Supervisors and the
Wisconsin DNR to remove the county forest lands (approximately 706 acres) from County Forest Law;
and,
WHEREAS Bayfield County will use all proceeds to acquire other lands off the reservation for entry
into County Forest Law, to be managed as part of the county forest;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, approves the sale of the county forestry lands and the transfer of non-forestry
lands on the Red Cliff Reservation to the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.
Motion by Strand, seconded by Penney to adopt Resolution No. 2022-51 Sale and Transfer of
County Lands on the Red Cliff Reservation to the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.
Motion carried, 12-0, 1 absent.
12. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-52:
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Authorizing Forestry Land Acquisition
WHEREAS, Bayfield County was approached by a property owner wishing to contribute (gift) lands to
the Bayfield County Forestry and Parks Department; and,
WHEREAS, the following parcels would be part of the gift: NESE, Section 5, T49N-R7W (tax ID#
27771); NWSE, Section 5, T49N-R7W (tax ID# 27772); SWSE, Section 5, T49N-R7W (tax ID#
27773); SESE, Section 5, T49N-R7W (tax ID# 27774), totaling 160 acres, all located in the Town of
Port Wing; and,
WHEREAS, these lands are currently enrolled in Wisconsin’s Managed Forest Law (MFL) program;
and,
WHEREAS, these parcels are all located adjacent to existing county forest lands, within the county
forest blocking; and,
WHEREAS, the Forestry and Parks Department and Corporation Counsel are performing due diligence
on the property, including an examination of title history and field inspections; and,
WHEREAS, The Bayfield County Forest and Parks Committee will be conducting a final review at
their June meeting;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, authorizes the Bayfield County Forestry and Parks and Bayfield County
Administrator to accept the gift of the above described land and execute a transfer of deeds to Bayfield
County pending a satisfactory final review and approval of the Forestry and Parks Committee; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that upon successful transfer of ownership to Bayfield County, that
the lands described above be enrolled in County Forest Law and managed as part of the Bayfield County
Forest.
Strand suggested the title of the resolution be changed to read, “Authorized to Accept a Gift of
Land for the Bayfield County Forest.”
Motion by Strand, seconded by Sandstrom to adopt Resolution No. 2022-52 Authorizing Forestry
Land Acquisition with the change to the resolution title so it reads “Authorized to Accept a Gift
of Land for the Bayfield County Forest.” Motion carried, 12-0, 1 absent.
13. Report of the Bayfield County Planning and Zoning Committee No. 2022-07:
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Silbert question if modifications could be made to the rezone that would satisfy both the
landowner and the zoning code. Chairman Pocernich explained that this agenda item only
pertains to receiving the report and placing it on file, action would be taken on the next item.
Motion by Ray, seconded by Strand to receive and place on file Report No. 2022-07 Petition to
Change district Boundaries of multiple parcels owned by C.T.D., LLC, Town of Barksdale, from
Agricultural-One (Ag-1) to Residential-One (R-1). Motion carried, 12-0, 1 absent.
14. Bayfield County Amendatory Ordinance No. 2022-07:
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Chairman Pocernich suggested that, moving forward, the verbiage on the rezone amendatory
ordinances be phrased to indicate a rezone rather than a change of district boundaries.
Silbert asked if the ordinance could be approved with modifications which would rezone the
property to Residential-Three (R-3) rather than Residential-One (R-1). After discussion and
consultation with corporation counsel, it was determined that the board would not be able to alter
the ordinance and would only be allowed to either approve or disapprove the ordinance at it is
presented and listed on the agenda.
Motion by Crandall, seconded by Milanowski to adopt Amendatory Ordinance No. 2022-07
Petition to Rezone a parcel owned by C.T.D., LLC, Town of Barksdale, from Agricultural-One
(Ag-1) to Residential-One (R-1). Roll Call Vote: Sandstrom-yes; Fickbohm-no; Oswald-absent;
Silbert-abstain; Strand-no; Dougherty-yes; Ray-no; Penney-yes; Rekemeyer-no; Milanowski-
yes; Crandall-yes; Rondeau-yes; Pocernich-yes. Motion carried, 7-4, 1 absent, 1 abstain.
15. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Appointments to the Human Services Board:
a. Susan Rosa, term ending June 2024, Human Services Board
b. Patrick Irvine, term ending June 2025, Human Services Board
Motion by Crandall, seconded by Dougherty to confirm the appointments of Susan Rosa to the
Human Services Board with a term ending June 2024 and Patrick Irvine to the Human Services
Board with a term ending June 2025. Motion carried, 12-0, 1 absent.
16. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-53:
To Address the Need to Provide Support and Services Coordination to Children in
the Long-term Services (CLTS) Program
WHEREAS, the Children’s Long-term Service (CLTS) program is a home and community based
waiver which provides supports and services that help children with disabilities grow and live their best
lives in their own home and community; and,
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WHEREAS, the state has eliminated the wait list for children in Wisconsin who need long-term care
services and are requiring counties to serve all eligible children at this time; and,
WHEREAS, the number of children served by the CLTS program in Bayfield County has exceeded the
ability of the current one full-time employee to provide the required support and services coordination;
and,
WHEREAS, it is anticipated the number of children who will enroll in the program in Bayfield County
will continue to grow and it is difficult to determine how many children will enroll before enrollment
begins to taper off; and,
WHEREAS, the state currently mandates counties to provide CLTS services and provides the funding
to support the program and the additional position;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, does hereby authorize the Department of Human Services to hire a second
Youth Support and Services Coordinator for the Children’s Long-term Services program as soon as
possible, and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Department of Human Services will work
closely with the County Administrator’s Office monitoring staff and making recommendations for
staffing for the program in the future as needed and amending the 2022 budget to reflect the new
position.
Motion by Crandall, seconded by Milanowski to adopt Resolution No. 2022-53 To Address the Need to Provide Support and Services Coordination to Children in the Long-Term Services
(CLTS) Program. Motion carried, 12-0, 1 absent.
17. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-54:
In Support of the Town of Cable’s Brownfield Project
WHEREAS, Bayfield County supports the health and economic wellbeing of communities in the
county; and,
WHEREAS, long standing unoccupied buildings present health and wellness challenges to a
community; and,
WHEREAS the former Cable School building located at 43430 Kavanaugh Road has been unoccupied
for a period of over 10 years with no maintenance performed, the gymnasium roof and a portion of the
North exterior wall have collapsed, the roof is leaking badly causing severe rot and corrosion, and there
are no functioning mechanical systems; and,
WHEREAS, this building, located central to the business sector, across from the post office, adjacent to
the community parking lot, and near the museum, library, churches, and visitor’s center makes this
location integral to the economic and social aspects of our community; and,
WHEREAS, the Town of Cable is applying for state assistance in the form of a Site Assessment Grant
that will help remove this structure;
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NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, hereby endorses and supports Cable’s efforts and supports this application;
and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Bayfield County applauds the town for taking action.
Motion by Crandall, seconded by Rondeau to adopt Resolution No. 2022-54 In Support of the
Town of Cable’s Brownfield Project. Motion carried, 12-0, 1 absent.
18. Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Appointment of J Erin Hutchinson to the
Bayfield County Housing Authority:
Motion by Fickbohm, seconded by Ray to confirm the appointment of J Erin Hutchinson to the
Bayfield County Housing Authority. Motion carried, 12-0, 1 absent.
19. Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-55:
Courthouse and Annex HVAC, Clerk of Court/Child Support, and Register of
Deeds Renovation Budget Amendment
WHEREAS, the HVAC system in the courthouse and annex is in need of updating; and,
WHEREAS, the 2016 Safety and Security Study recommended moving the Clerk of Court and Child
Support Offices closer to the courtroom for safety, security and convenience of the public and
courthouse staff; and,
WHEREAS, the County Board set aside ARPA funds for both projects in the amount of $800,000; and,
WHEREAS, bids for the project came in over the estimates in the amount of $375,043; and,
WHEREAS, the County has unspent ARPA funds in the amount of $274,000 that could be allocated
towards the project, resulting in county fund balance contribution of $55,043; and,
WHEREAS, total estimated costs of the project is $1,195,043 which includes all anticipated costs and a
5% construction contingency;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, approves the budget for the overall project to be increased to $1,195,043;
and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that undesignated and reallocated ARPA funds in the amount of
$274,000 be added to the current designation; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that $55,043 be appropriated from the General Fund Balance for the
project; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the following budget amendments be made:
Increase 100-00-49301 by $ 10,000
Increase 100-09-43507 by $ 20,000
Increase 100-09-51331-50810 by $ 30,000
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Increase 276-00-49201 by $ 45,043
Increase 100-00-49301 by $ 45,043
Increase 100-00-59276-50998 by $ 45,043
Increase 276-00-43333 by $174,000
Increase 276-14-57100-50820 by $565,043
Decrease 276-20-54101-50121 by $ 23,000
Decrease 276-20-54101-50138 by $ 13,000
Decrease 276-20-54101-50154 by $ 5,000
Increase 276-00-49301 by $305,000
Motion by Milanowski, seconded by Sandstrom to adopt Resolution No. 2022-55 Courthouse
and Annex HVAC, Clerk of Court/Child Support, and Register of Deeds Renovation Budget
Amendment. Roll Call Vote: Sandstrom-yes; Dougherty-yes; Fickbohm-yes; Ray-yes; Silbert-
yes; Penney-yes; Rekemeyer-yes; Rondeau-absent; Milanowski-yes; Crandall-yes; Pocernich-
yes; Oswald-absent. Motion carried, 11-0, 2 absent.
20. Discussion and possible Action Regarding Bayfield County Resolutions for Wisconsin
Counties Association Platform:
Previous Year Resolutions:
a) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-56; Enact Stronger Regulations to Limit the
Spread of Chronic Wasting Disease:
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 36 counties and has been found in over 25 captive cervid farms; and,
WHEREAS, there are 60 counties that are ‘CWD affected’, either having CWD detected in the county
or are within 10 miles of CWD detection; 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 2021 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,
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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 31st day of May, 2022, 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.
b) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-57; Conduct Additional Research on Chronic
Wasting Disease to Improve Testing, Treatment, and Management Options:
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,
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 36
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 2021 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,
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, 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 cervid 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.
c) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-58; Supporting a Change in State Regulations
and Legislation to Require Meaningful Local input in the Siting of Concentrated
Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs):
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,
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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 31st day of May 2022, 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.
d) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-59; Support Medicaid Expansion:
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
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.
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors assembled
this 31st day of May 2022, request that Wisconsin Counties Association support the expansion of
Medicaid and consider adoption of this resolution as part of their policy platform.
e) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-60; Supporting Changes in State Regulations
and Legislation to Support Emergency Medical Services in Rural Areas:
Supporting Changes in State Regulations and Legislation to Support 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 31st day of May 2022, 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.
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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.
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 31st day of May 2022 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 Strand, seconded by Rondeau to adopt Resolutions No. 2022-56, No. 2022-57, No.
2022-58, No. 2022-59, No. 2022-60 Wisconsin Counties Association Resolutions. Motion
carried, 12-0, 1 absent.
New Resolutions in 2022:
f) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-61; WCA Platform Resolution to Address the
Statewide District Attorney Staffing Crisis:
WCA Platform Resolution to Address the Statewide District Attorney Staffing
Crisis
WHEREAS, Wisconsin District Attorney Offices are experiencing a staffing crisis; and,
WHEREAS, Victim Witness professionals are faced with an impossible-to-sustain volume of cases, a
huge increase in responsibilities per case, and caseloads where felonies are now outpacing
misdemeanors; and,
WHEREAS, Victim Witness professional are the only victim service providers obligated by state
statute and the Wisconsin Constitution to provide rights and services to crime victims; and,
WHEREAS, Victim Witness Assistance Programs are at a crisis point
• The implications for clearing the court backlogs are dire; when Victim Witness Professionals
cannot meet their constitutionally-mandated obligations, and victims’ rights are not fulfilled,
court hearings must be adjourned
• This has a serious impact on public safety; and,
WHEREAS, There are several causes for this crisis including Marsy’s Law obligations, severity of
crimes and COVID-19 crime rate increase / public defender shortage;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, does hereby urge the Office of Crime Victim Services with the Department
of Justice assess increased time needs associated with new legislation including Marsy’s Law and post
COVID-19 crime surges.
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g) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-62; WCA Platform Resolution Advocating for
County Supervision Options for Public Safety:
WCA Platform Resolution Advocating for County Supervision Options for Public
Safety
WHEREAS, Many counties in Wisconsin participate in alternatives to incarceration that produce
positive outcomes; and,
WHEREAS, Wisconsin has helped support alternatives to incarceration through grant funding, training
and other initiatives; and,
WHEREAS, these alternatives rely on supervision and case management to ensure compliance; and,
WHEREAS, the Wisconsin Department of Corrections through its division of Community Corrections
supervises many of these cases; and,
WHEREAS, additional sentencing discretion in the form of evidenced based, individually tailored,
county supervision initiatives, specifically for misdemeanors and low level felonies will have positive
outcomes and result in safer communities; and,
WHEREAS, knowledge of participants and their history with the county enable the county to make
solid evidenced based decisions;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, does hereby support the necessary regulatory and statutory revisions
allowing for counties to establish a county supervision process for certain offenders; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Bayfield County recommends that the Wisconsin Counties
Association work with the State Legislature, Department of Corrections to make these changes; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Bayfield County recommends that the Wisconsin Counties
Association work with the State Legislature on a block grant funding program to transfer supervision
responsibilities to volunteering counties; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Bayfield County recommends that the Wisconsin Counties
Association urge the State Legislature to codify deferred entry of judgement agreements.
h) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-63; WCA Platform Resolution to Encourage
Changes to State Legislation Allowing for an Increased Number of State Meat
Processors:
WCA Platform Resolution to Encourage Changes to State Legislation Allowing for
an Increased Number of State Meat Processors
WHEREAS, Farmers across Wisconsin are struggling to secure a harvest date for the livestock they
raises at local meat processors, currently producers have having to secure harvest dates 2-3 years in
advance, well before animals are even bred. This creates a challenge for producers as they then may
need to change their management systems or procedures to finish an animal to fit the harvest date vs
harvesting when an animal has reached harvest weight/age; and,
WHEREAS, four processing firms handle 85% of the beef market, 54% of the poultry market, and 70%
of the pork market; and,
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WHEREAS, the lack of state and federal meat inspectors severely limits options especially for smaller
producers as well as those hoping to sell across state lines due to federal inspection certification
requirements; and,
WHEREAS, due to high state demand, most processors only have state inspectors, severely limiting
smaller processor’s ability to sell across state lines; and,
WHEREAS, current harvest delays adds feed costs to producers if animals are not harvested efficiently,
and reduce animal prices due to packer discounts, negatively impacting businesses bottom line; and,
WHEREAS, many older processors are starting to shut down, and few of these have succession plans in
place, this will result in even more limited processing opportunities; and,
WHEREAS, the State of Wisconsin has a lack of educational opportunities for potential meat
processors, young people are not exposed to meat science or butchery as part of current curriculums, in
addition very limited peer learning and butcher apprentice programs are in place; and,
WHEREAS, support for local processing alternatives is important to Wisconsin counties; and,
WHEREAS, counties sincerely appreciate funding included in the state budget and the pandemic
recovery funds towards livestock processors;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, does hereby encourage the Wisconsin Counties Association to work with
State Legislature to make necessary legislative changes that would increase the number of state
inspectors that will be available to assist smaller, rural processors; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED; that WCA encourages the State Legislature and DATCP to advocate
for and facilitate federal inspectors in Wisconsin’s processor facilities and encourage consideration of
new federal rules allowing for state inspection certificates to be valid in adjacent states; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED; that WCA works with the State Legislature and UW Extension
Madison to prioritize funding for succession planning at current Wisconsin meat processors; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED; that WCA works with the State Legislature, the University of
Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Department of Education to help fund costly animal science harvest center
educational facilities; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that WCA supports the promotion and growth of the Wisconsin meat
industry by encouraging legislative changes, funding, and regulatory amendments.
i) Bayfield County Resolution No. 2022-64; WCA Platform Resolution Supporting
Counties During Labor Housing Shortages:
WCA Platform Resolution Supporting Counties During Labor and Housing
Shortages
WHEREAS, Housing and staffing shortages combined are challenging county governments across the
state; and,
WHEREAS, Counties are at the point of being unable to provide certain services, some of them
mandated, due to housing and staffing issues; and,
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WHEREAS, As agents of the State, Counties follow state regulations and statutes; and,
WHEREAS, State rules, processes and procedures often dictate the tasks performed by multiple county
departments including but not limited to Human Services and the Sheriff’s Office; and,
WHEREAS, Direction, assistance, recommendation and flexibility from the state will be paramount to
county government complying with the intent of the law;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors, assembled
this 31st day of May, 2022, supports the Wisconsin Counties Association to request that the State of
Wisconsin:
• Encourages regional options in addition to individual county-based staffing solutions
• Support flexibility of timelines for acquiring job-required certifications.
• Reviews and updates workforce certification and licensure requirements to determine if they are
necessary
• Eliminates unnecessary requirements in state statute and administrative rule to reflect the reality of the
workforce shortage and the ability of employers in Wisconsin to recruit and retain qualified staff
• Considers allowing training certificate extensions, and longer certification and licensure periods prior to
renewal
• Reviews and removes obsolete language or process that create barriers to hiring, licensure, or certification
• Provides financial incentives for recent graduates to accept work in the county government system for
difficult to fill positions
• Provides funding to allow Counties to provide hiring incentives for hard to fill positions
• Partners with Counties to develop creative and innovative ways to address workforce shortages
Motion by Sandstrom, seconded by Fickbohm to adopt Resolutions No. 2022-61, No. 2022-62,
No. 2022-63, No. 2022-64 Wisconsin Counties Association Resolutions. Motion carried, 12-0, 1
absent.
21. Reports;
a) Stewardship Application Under Review: Abeles-Allison reported that the Forestry Department
has an application submitted to the Joint Finance Committee to purchase a large amount of forest
land. Strand continued and explained that a total of 1,999 acres would be purchased for nearly
$2.5 million with half of the funds being acquired by grants and the other half being funded by
the County. Most of the County provided funds would come from the sale of land to the Red
Cliff Tribe.
b) ARPA Project Updates: Abeles-Allison reported that the Northern Lights Nursing Home
HVAC project was a major success.
c) Future County Board Meeting Dates:
a. June 8, 2022: Joint Red Cliff Tribal County/County Board Meeting, Legendary
Waters, Dinner at 5:00 PM – Dougherty suggested that a consent agenda be drafted for
the meeting.
b. June 28, 2022
c. July 26, 2022 d. August 30, 2022
22. Supervisors’ Reports: None.
23. Adjournment:
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There being no further business to come before the Bayfield County Board of Supervisors,
Chairman Pocernich adjourned the meeting at 8:16 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
LYNN M. DIVINE
Bayfield County Clerk
LMD/pat