Dane County Towns Association

General Meeting

March 12, 2003

Town of Cross Plains

 Meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. by Chairman Gerald Derr.

The Flag Pledge was led by Harold Krantz, Chair, town of Cross Plains.  Chairman Krantz introduced the Cross Plains Town Board, Clerk, and Plan Commission.

 Derr introduced other guests that were in attendance.

 A motion was made to approve the minutes of the last meeting and the treasurer’s report.

Seconded and carried.

 Audit Committee -  Kevin Viney, Steve Frame and Jerry Jensen volunteered to perform the annual audit. 

 Roll Call – The roll was called and 19 towns were present.

 David Schmiedicke, Deputy State Budget Director, discussed Governor Doyle’s proposed budget that was given to the legislature.  He stated that there would be no tax increase and that the schools would be completely refunded.  In regard to shared revenue, the DCTA and WTA support a proposal for a percentage cut rather than a per capita cut which they feel would be fairer to all municipalities.

 By-Law Revision – Mark Hazelbaker explained the changes that have been proposed.  After discussion, Steve Frame moved approval, seconded by several.  Roll call vote –17 towns in favor.  (2 towns in attendance were not voting members). Motion passed.

 Dane County Zoning Administrator Position – Jeanie Sieling has sent out survey to all towns for input on what they feel position should address.  There are at present 14 applicants.

 Sale of Liquor package goods  - Springfield Town Chair Jim Ripp would like to see all towns adopt a uniform time for closing for sale of package goods at 9 p.m. county-wide.  There was an accident in Springfield that involved youth coming out to the town to purchase beer after 9 p.m.  Several towns indicated that they have or are considering passing such an ordinance.  Others felt it was not necessary.  Mark Hazelbaker said if anyone is interested, he will draft a sample ordinance for their use.

 RPC Lawsuit -  Mark Hazelbaker reported the status of the lawsuit and that Gov. Doyle has requested filing his own brief. 

 Highway Overlay District -  Mark also discussed a proposed ordinance amendment that will affect development primarily along Hwy 12, but could also affect other areas in the county.  DCTA will be working with the supporters of this Ordinance Amendment to make sure the language is acceptable to the towns.

WTA Representatives – Bob Thomas and Norm Faber brought the members up to date on state issues. 

Commuter Rail – Milo Breunig handed out an article on commuter rail that gave a lot of information on costs and profitability of such an enterprise.

 A motion was made to adjourn.  Seconded and carried.

 Respectfully submitted,

 Patricia Ampe, Secretary