Thank you - Another two years -

It was an exciting election this year...We had a good time listening to the results - Mary, Kathy and myself will be continuing on the Council for another two years.  Celebrations had to end early for me - I had a flight in the mooring to go to Baltimore for a work conference.  Because of my flight out of town, I wanted to thank Mary and Kathy (and others that helped with their campaign) for collecting yard signs for me.  If by chance you have a yard sign please drop it by my house.   If you have not heard - there is some great things going on in Monona - please keep an eye on the city web-site for up-to-date news.

Election Results - Monona Alder -

Monona Alder

*Mary O'Connor 1059

*Brian Holmquist 890
*Kathy Thomas 827
Brett Blomme 760

Election day -

Although it is April 1st, its no joke - its time to VOTE!
If you did not vote early, today is the day.  At my house your "number" at your polling place is something you talk about all day and is almost more important than the sticker indicating you voted.  I wonder if I could every get there to be #1?

Please join County Supv. Robin Schmidt Robin, Alder Mary O'Connor and myself for an election night celebration today Tuesday, April 1 in the lower level at Angelo's on Monona Drive. We'll be starting about 7 and election results should be available shortly after 8.

Get out and Vote - April 1st. -

Early Voting is over - if you did not vote early you will need to vote on Tuesday at the polls.  Here are two links that folks may find helpful.

Election information

Sample Ballot

Election - 1 Week out! -

Se we are in the final stretch.  One week to go till election night.  I know I sound like a broken record, but many folks plan to get out of the tundra to go somewhere warm (especially after waking up to snow today).  So you still have this week through Friday at 5 to vote in-person at City Hall.  After that you need to vote on election day at the polls (end at 8PM).

Review of first term - Strategic Planning -

One major milestone in my first term was the process and completion of a strategic plan for the city.  This process was conducted with a consultant in the fall-winter of 2013.  One step in this process was the completion of a citizen survey.  Although it is easy to let things like this collect dust on a shelf - it will be the requirement for future elected officials to keep this plan active - these officials will need to support our City Administrator in the implementation of this plan in the next few years.

Overview of the Strategic Plan

LWVDC Voter Questionnaire -

Each year the League of Women Voters - Dane County put together a questionnaire.  Here is the LWVDC LINK to the responses for City of Monona Spring election for Alder. We are heading into the homestretch to election day.  Remember if you have plans to go out of town for Spring Break you need to vote early at City Hall (M-F 8-5)

New Voting Procedures in Dane County -

Here is a nice handout from the City of Madison New Ballot
Two videos to help teach you how the new procedures work.

Spring Election - Sample Ballot and Early Voting in Monona -

Here is the sample Ballot for the Spring election in Monona.  The election is paired with the Monona Grove Spring Break and many folks plan to go somewhere warm...If you are one of those lucky folks, consider the Early Voting option.

In-Person at your Municipal Clerk's Office (Early Voting)
You can vote absentee at your local municipal clerk's office. In-person absentee voting (also known as early voting) runs for two weeks before an election, ending at 5 p.m. or the close of business (whichever is later) on the Friday before the election.  March 17 to 28 (Spring Election) from 8-5

If you apply for an absentee ballot in your municipal clerk's office, you must vote immediately, seal your ballot in the proper envelope, and return it to a member of the clerk's staff. No ballots may be taken from the clerk's office.

For more information here is the Link to the Elections page on the City Website.

Sample Ballot SPRING-040114

COURT OF APPEALS - DISTRICT 4 - VOTE FOR ONE
GARY E. SHERMAN (Non-Partisan)

DANE COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE, BRANCH 1 - VOTE FOR ONE
JOHN W. MARKSON (Non-Partisan)

DANE COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE, BRANCH 7 - VOTE FOR ONE
WILLIAM E. HANRAHAN (Non-Partisan)

COUNTY BOARD SUPERVISOR (SU24) - VOTE FOR ONE
ROBIN R SCHMIDT (Non-Partisan)

CITY OF MONONA ALDERPERSON (MN258) - VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN THREE
MARY O'CONNOR (Non-Partisan)
BRIAN HOLMQUIST (Non-Partisan)
BRETT BLOMME (Non-Partisan)
KATHY THOMAS (Non-Partisan)

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER - MONONA GROVE SCHOOL DISTRICT - VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN TWO
DEAN BOWLES (Non-Partisan)
SUSAN FOX (Non-Partisan)

DANE COUNTY REFERENDUM #1
"Should the Wisconsin Constitution be amended to require a nonpartisan system for redistricting legislative and congressional districts in the state?" Yes _____ No _____

DANE COUNTY REFERENDUM #2
"Should the state government enact legislation legalizing marijuana?" Yes ______ No ______

Review of first term - Bullying Ordinance

This issue got international attention.  Overall, the public reaction was very positive and welcomed.  This ordinance adopts the state law, but allows us to address these issues locally and more timely than passing along to the District Attorney (who would more than likely address if the issue was very significant and cause substantial harm).  It also allows us to address parents that enable or ignore the behaviors of their children and their child repeats the offense within 90 days. 

May 6, 2013
Detective Sergeant Losby provided information on Ordinance 5-13-645 Prohibiting Bullying and Harassment. Extensive work has gone into this with many revisions made. This Ordinance adopts State statutes including bullying, a course of conduct, and harassment Citywide as well as in the schools. It also prohibits cyber-bullying and retaliation and includes parental responsibility. This would be used rarely to issue a municipal citation in extreme cases of constant behavior problems.
Mayor Miller expressed concern about penalties being imposed without the offer of help, and was assured Police Officers have received applicable training. Alder Holmquist reported the School District and School Board has reviewed this, and agree the parental responsibility clause urges corrective action, but they are aware that there may be other issues that require other interventions. Alder Thomas reported the schools will continue their efforts, but this addresses conduct outside the school’s jurisdiction, and will be used when all else fails. Alder Busse stated that while this is State law already, the City will be allowed act more quickly with a municipal citation than the District Attorney.
Sergeant Losby stated parental involvement is required for children aged 11 and under. There have been many cases of non-cooperative parents. Students and parents will be notified of this law via student handbooks and social media.
Alder Wood questioned a parent’s ability to curb behaviors. City Attorney Cole stated a prior conviction is required to penalize parents, and there are a range of costs for the 1st through 3rd offense. A rebuttal presumption is in place. Truancy and property damage already carry parental responsibility. Case by case discretion will be used so parents who are making efforts won’t be penalized.
Sergeant Losby reported Cottage Grove is waiting to adopt this Ordinance until Monona takes action. Once adopted, he will send this out to all Dane County jurisdictions. Monona will be one of the first few municipalities to adopt a bullying Ordinance.
Alder Busse requests a list of penalties for the next meeting, and questions whether other penalties, like community service, have been considered. Alder Thomas stated passing an Ordinance like this proclaims the community’s values and respect for one another. 

May 20, 2013

Sergeant Losby reported changes were made to the following final document with current State statutes and the City Attorney’s recommendations, and penalties added as the Council requested.
A motion by Alder Holmquist, seconded by Alder Thomas to approve Ordinance 5-13-645 Prohibiting Bullying and Harassment, was carried. 

AN ORDINANCE PROHIBITING BULLYING AND HARASSMENT
WHEREAS, bullying and harassment disrupt a safe environment in the city; interfere with one’s ability to succeed or excel in a safe environment in the city and interfere with one’s ability to participate in or benefit from programs, activities, worksites and opportunities offered to the community; and

WHEREAS, the Common Council finds it is in the public interest to assure that every person is valued and respected regardless of perceived differences, and may live free from bullying, harassment and intimidation.

NOW, THEREFORE, the Common Council of the City of Monona, Dane County, Wisconsin, does ordain as follows:

SECTION 1. Section 11-1-1 of the Code of Ordinances is hereby amended to include the following state statutes as adopted, or if previously adopted, to readopt, and incorporate into the Code of Ordinances:
947.01 -
947.012- -
947.0125 -
947.013- -
SECTION 2. Section 11-2-17 of the Code of Ordinances is hereby created to read as follows:
Disorderly Conduct
Unlawful Use of a Telephone
Unlawful Use of Computerized Communication Systems Harassment

11-2-17 Bullying, Harassment
(a) Definitions. As used in this section, the following terms shall have the following meanings,
unless the context clearly indicates that a different meaning is intended:

Bullying: Bullying is a form of harassment and is defined as an intentional course of conduct which is reasonably likely to intimidate, emotionally abuse, slander, threaten or intimidate another person and which serves no legitimate purpose.

Course of Conduct: “Course of conduct” is defined as a pattern of conduct composed of a series of acts over a period of time, however short, evidencing a continuity of purpose.

Harassment: “Harassment” is defined as any conduct; whether verbal, physical, written, or by means of any mode of communication; which:

Is prohibited by section 947.01, 947.012, 947.0125, or 947.013 of the Wisconsin Statutes; or

Is any intentional course of conduct which is likely to create an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment, and which serves no legitimate purpose.

(b) Prohibition. It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in any bullying or harassment of a person or induce another person to engage in such bullying or harassment.

(c) Retaliation Prohibited. No person shall retaliate against any person who reports any conduct which is prohibited by this section.

(d) Constitutionally Protected Activity. This section shall not be construed to apply to any constitutionally protected activity or speech.

(e) Parental Responsibility. It shall be unlawful for any custodial parent or guardian of any unemancipated person under eighteen (18) years of age to allow or permit such person to violate the provisions of subsection (b) above. The fact that prior to the present offense a parent, guardian or custodian was informed in writing by a law enforcement officer of a separate violation of subsection (b) by the same minor occurring within ninety (90) days prior to the present offense shall constitute a rebuttable presumption that such parent, guardian or custodian allowed or permitted the present violation.

(f) Penalties. Any person who shall violate any provision of this section shall be subject to a penalty as provided in Section 1-1-7.

SECTION 3. This ordinance shall take effect upon passage and publication as provided by law.

Review of first term - Allowable Noise Levels

This was an interesting process...the short version - a resident indicated a business was violating the current noise ordinance.  When looking into the issue it was noted that the ambient noise level of the traffic exceeded the current ordinance.  We needed to look at modifying the ordinance and look at the impact on both residents and the business community.  In the end I think we made a good decision, but it was very important to take the time to understand the issue beyond looking to other communities and picking numbers to match.  This took some extra time from me, but that is how "good" decisions are made -taking the time to understand the issues before making judgement-

February 4, 2013
Alder Thomas reported Ordinance 1-13-641 Amending Section 13-1-42 of the Code of Ordinances Regarding Allowable Noise Levels is in response to a noise complaint regarding a local business which has a decibel level of 55. The current Ordinance limit of 40 decibels is about the level of Monona Drive traffic, is far under that of area municipalities, and is nearly impossible to achieve. Alder Busse reported 55 decibels is normal conversation and most community’s limit is 70 to 75, some with different rates for daytime and nighttime. City Administrator Marsh reported the Public Safety Commission’s recommended 24-hour level of 70 would be exceeded on special occasions like football games, Memorial Day Parade, Community Festival, as well as individual Amplified Device Permits, which also carry a time limit. Alder Thomas reported all parties were satisfied with this change. 

February 18th, 2013

A motion by Alder Thomas, seconded by Alder O’Connor to approve Ordinance 1-13-641 Amending Section 13-1-42 of the Code of Ordinances Regarding Allowable Noise Levels for discussion purposes, was carried.
Alder Thomas is willing to take this Ordinance back to the Public Safety Commission, whose next meeting is in March, if the Council wills it. A separation of commercial and residential limits may be considered, but it’s unsure how to regulate commercial noise that enters a residential area. Alder Wood stated excellent points were made by the resident who appeared. In checking the Internet, it is clear that a decibel level of 40 is too low and 70 is too high and a variation between daytime and nighttime levels is a good option.
A motion by Alder Thomas, seconded by Alder Busse to table Ordinance 1-13-641 Amending Section 13- 1-42 of the Code of Ordinances Regarding Allowable Noise Levels to refer it back to the Public Safety Commission, was carried. 

April 1, 1013

A motion by Alder Thomas, seconded by Alder Wood to remove from the table Ordinance 1-13- 641 Amending Section 13-1-42 of the Code of Ordinances Regarding Allowable Noise Levels, was carried.
Alder Thomas reported the Public Safety Commission approved decibel levels of 55 and 65 with a time structure. Alder Holmquist was the one dissenting vote. The day and night, residence vs. commercial information was conflicting and not fully provided. He met with the concerned resident and took readings throughout the City to ascertain realistic levels. Low 60’s and 50’s is realistic. The levels approved seem reasonable. Members agree the new levels may affect the outdoor pavilion discussed earlier. Alder Busse reminded members that plan was to stop play at 9:00 p.m. and have patrons leave the area by 10:00 p.m. Mayor Miller thanked all, especially Alder Holmquist, for his work on this issue.
A motion by Alder Thomas, seconded by Alder Wood to approve Ordinance 1-13-641 Amending Section 13-1-42 of the Code of Ordinances Regarding Allowable Noise Levels, was carried. 

WSJ Candidate Q & A for Monona City Council

Here is the link to the WSJ for the candidate Q&A.

WSJ Q&A

Comments on City meeting for the week of 3-10-14

Plan commission
Monday 3-10-14
Canceled.

BROADBAND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ADVISORY COMMITTEE
CABLE STUDIO – MONONA GROVE HIGH SCHOOL
Tuesday March 10th 2014 6:00 P.M. (this is how it is listed...I believe it is tonight Monday the 10th)

Continuing discussion of LPFM technical & program subcommittees
-need to work on some of the details now that we have been granted a LPFM permit from the Fed's...this not only could be exciting for general programming content, it could be used as part of the Emergency Plan to communicate with residents in an emergency.

Discussion of a timeline for the implementation of the LPFM station
-exciting, more information to come

Discussion of the Media Coordinator position
-Andy has moved on from this position (we thank him for the many years he has served this community)

City of Monona Landmarks Commission Meeting
Tuesday March 11, 2014 4:00 p.m.

Landscaping of the DCHS marker
-This was the wonderful historical marker placed on "founder's day" celebrating the city's 75th Anniversary this past year. Looking forward to the landscaping to make this area more attractive.

Re-installing Historic Markers: Knute Reindahl Home, Town Hall Site, Nichols School
-I believe that these three markers needed to be removed during the road construction...and now need to be re-installed.

Memorial for Shirley Homburg
-She will be missed,

Filling the Commission Vacancy
-Welcoming Rebecca Holmquist - (congratulations, and thank you!)


Project Ideas from Jim Drager
-no comment as I am not sure what this may about

Marking "Landmark Trees" in Monona
-Although I understand the "historic" value of trees - marking them "landmark" may be concern. Looking to hear more information on this topic before I form an opinion.

LICENSE REVIEW COMMITTEE
TUESDAY – MARCH 11
CANCELLED.

MONONA PARK AND RECREATION BOARD
Tuesday March 11, 2014 6:30 PM

Appearances
Paul Noeldner – Madison Autobahn Society – Bird City USA
-looking forward to hearing more about this opportunity. We do have many good bird-watching areas.

Mayor Bob Miller – Dog Park Proposal
-so this is a proposal that was also presented to the Public Works department and was met with some hesitancy to move forward. The proposed location was at the land adjacent to the Public Works garage. I suspect the Park and Rec board will question the issue that this proposal is not in a city park and therefore would defer to Public Works...or consider other areas that may be useful locations (not everyone lives close to public works garage...and if you had to drive there - you would likely go to a larger park). I understand why the Mayor is bringing this issue forward - during the strategic plan process the community spoke about the desire for a dog-exercise area, and indicated that the community is not as "welcoming" to "new" residents. Studies show that "dog-friendly" cities are also determined to be more welcoming...more to come in the future.

Oneida Park Shelter Update
-I believe that this will include a current status of the bids for the shelter, and indicating if there are some that need to go out to bid again (either because of a change in work, more details, or reason to believe that costs are different). Look forward to moving forward with this park improvement.

Arrowhead Park Playground Proposal Recommendation
-This park is needing a face-lift and safety update. It is a nice neighborhood park.

Dog Park Proposal Discussion
-good document from the Spring Green group looking for approval for a dog park. See above for comments.

Bird City USA Recommendation
-see comments above.

POLICE AND FIRE COMMISSION
Date: March 12, 2014
5:30 P.M.

Election of Chair/President of the Commission; Consideration of Hiring Process for Fire Department Firefighter/Paramedic; Consideration of Proposed Code of Conduct for Police Department; Consideration of Changes to Monona City Ordinances Governing the Police and Fire Commission.
-no comment

The Commission may go into Closed Session Under Wisconsin Statute 19.85(1)(c) Considering Employment, Promotion, Compensation or Performance Evaluation Data of Any Public Employee over which the Governmental Body has Jurisdiction or Exercises Responsibility (Discuss Individual Performance or Employment Matters as brought to the attention of the Commission by the Fire or Police Chief).

-no comment

Review of first term - Green Tier

Link to Green Tier Website - Monona section

I remember the first time this item was on the agenda...I think it was the first time I had to park at the community center for a meeting. It was interesting that the majority of folks that came to speak against this resolution were from out of town - as far away as Janesville, WI. Given the "claims" that were presented by some of these folks, many of us on the council took our time and researched these claims. When we discussed this item and voted - many of us spoke about the research we did around the claims indicated by folks that were opposed to this resolution...none of us were persuaded by their claims (there just was no evidence to them), and discussed the match of the Green Tier to our other goals (commitment to sustainability as a city, one example).

Here is the information that sums up some of the support and reasoning.

From the Minutes
"Municipalities maintain control of what and how much they want to do, with no penalty for non-action. Membership creates a more formal commitment to sustainability. Members received assurance that plans would be approved by the Council . The City is already doing many of the suggested ideas. Creating a plan, easier grant applications, and sharing of processes between communities are positives. The option to opt-out is clear and simple"

What has it allow us to do...I think the biggest impact has been in providing support, education, and networking for our city staff as we worked on our Sustainability Plan (recently phase 1 was adopted).

Prep for lit drop.

Review of first term - Minimum Housing and Property Maintenance

Looking over my first term on council and highlighting some of the work we were able to accomplish.

Minimum Housing and Property Maintenance 

-overall this was to look at the issue of unsightly property and find ways to address- 
Here is the current code that was adopted in the Spring of 2012.

Sec. 15-1-81 Housing and Property Maintenance.
(a) Definitions. The following definitions shall be applicable in this Section.

1. (1)  Driveway. The area leading directly from the public street to a garage or carport (or if no
   garage or carport exists, a parking area immediately in front of the dwelling unit) intended for
   vehicles to travel to and from those two locations and park thereon.
   
2. (2)  Dwelling. A place of abode, a residence or a house for use by one (1) or more persons,
   excluding hotels or motels.
   
3. (3)  Dwelling Unit. One or more rooms with provisions for living, cooking, sanitary, and sleeping
   facilities arranged for habitation by one (1) family.
   
4. (4)  Family. An adult, or two adults regardless of gender, and any individuals related to either such
   individual by blood, marriage or adoption, including foster children; all of which are living
   together in a single housekeeping unit.
   
5. (5)  Impervious Surface. An area surfaced with concrete, asphalt, brick or a similar hard surface.
   
6. (6)  Occupant. Any person who occupies or has actual possession of a property, structure or
   dwelling, or part thereof.
   
7. (7)  Operator. Any person who has charge, care or control of a property, structure or dwelling, or
   part thereof, whether with or without the knowledge and consent of the owner.
   
8. (8)  Owner. Every individual, firm, corporation, association, partnership, limited liability
   partnership, limited liability company, or similar entity; having a legal or equitable interest in a property, structure or dwelling. Owner shall also include the representative, officer, agent or other person having the ownership, control, custody or management of any building. Owner does not include any person whose legal or equitable interest in the building is a security interest derived solely from the extension of credit to permit construction, purchase or remodeling of the property, structure or dwelling by a third party.
   
9. (9)  Rear Yard. The area of a lot as defined as either a rear yard or shore yard in sec. 13-1-80(d)(8) of this Code.
   
10. (10)  Residential District. The area located in a Single Family Residence District, Two Family Residence District, or Multi-Family Residence District under Chapter 13-1 of this Code -- the Monona Zoning Code.
    
11. (11)  Side Yard. The area of a lot as defined as a side yard in sec. 13-1-80(d)(8) of this Code.
    
12. (12)  Street Yard. The area of a lot as defined as a street yard in sec. 13-1-80(d)(8) of this Code.
    
13. (13)  Store. To place an item in a location with no intent to immediately use it. An item will be
    rebuttably presumed to be stored at a location if it remains at that location without being moved
    for a period of 21 consecutive days.
    
14. (14)  Unsecured. Unsecured means there exists an opening into a building through which a person or
    animal may enter that is not maintained by the owner, operator or legal occupant in a manner
    that controls access thereto.
    
15. (15)  Vehicle. Any device designed for transportation which is capable of self-propulsion, including
    but not limited to; automobiles, trucks, jeeps, vans, motorcycles, motorbikes, go-karts,
    473
    

City of Monona Code of Ordinances
motorized three-wheeled vehicles, all-terrain vehicles (“ATVs”), utility task vehicles (“UTVs”), neighborhood electric vehicles (“NEVs”), golf carts, mopeds, snowmobiles, dune buggies, tractors, motorboats (with or without a motor attached), sailboats, iceboats, personal watercraft. The phrase also includes all utility trailers, trailers designed for transporting any of the above listed vehicles, and devices designed for transportation which are not capable of self- propulsion, but which are greater than 6 feet in length, including but not limited to canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards.
(b) Health and Safety. Every owner, operator, or occupant who has assumed responsibility for maintaining the property pursuant to a written lease, shall remove therefrom and dispose of within a reasonable time all articles or material visible to the public which are reasonably detrimental to the health or safety of the neighborhood or the City in general.
(c) Property Maintenance Responsibilities of Owners, Operators, and Occupants. Every owner, operator, and occupant who has assumed responsibility for maintaining the property pursuant to a written lease, shall improve and maintain all property under their control so as to comply with the following minimum requirements:
(1) All exterior areas of the property shall be graded to divert water away from all buildings.
(2) The interior of all vacant buildings and structures, and all exterior areas of all property shall be
maintained in a safe and sanitary condition, free from accumulation of debris, rubbish, garbage, physical hazards, rodent and varmint harborages and infestations, and animal feces. All animal feces shall be removed within twenty-four (24) hours.
(3) Fences, structures, walks, driveways, parking areas and similar paved areas shall be properly maintained in a safe condition.
(4) They exterior surfaces of all buildings and structures not inherently resistant to, or chemically treated to prevent, deterioration shall be treated with a protective coating of paint or other suitable preservative which will provide adequate resistance to weathering.
(5) Every interior floor, wall and ceiling including door and window assemblies shall be kept in good repair and shall be capable of affording privacy from public view.
(6) Every inside and outside stair, porch, platform, balcony, and appurtenance thereto shall be maintained in good repair, safe to use and capable of supporting the load that normal use may cause to be placed thereon.
(7) Every plumbing fixture and water and waste pipe shall be maintained in good repair and free from defects, leaks, and obstructions.
(8) Every water closet compartment floor surface and bathroom floor surface shall be maintained so as to be reasonably impervious to water and so as to permit such floor to be easily kept in a sanitary condition.
(9) No owner shall allow an accumulation of rocks, trees, stumps, waste building material or other debris on the property; except such debris resulting from land development, building construction, street grading, or installation of underground utilities may remain on the property for a period of more than ten (10) days, unless a valid building permit has been issued, in which case such accumulation be disposed of as set forth in the building permit.
(10) All private storm sewers and building storm sewers shall be properly installed and maintained in good repair, free from defects, leaks and obstructions.
(11) All rain gutters, downspouts, including extensions, and the discharge systems for sump pumps shall be maintained in good repair and shall minimize the effect of runoff onto adjacent properties.
(12) All structures shall be constructed and maintained so that the exterior is reasonably weathertight and inaccessible to rodents, vermin and insects.
(13) The exterior of all property shall be maintained in a reasonably litter free condition. All litter that is subject to movement by the elements shall be promptly removed so as to reasonably prevent it being blown onto other property by the elements.
(d) Paved Driveways. All driveways on properties in a residential district, shall be paved with concrete, asphalt, brick, pervious paver or a similar surface within one (1) year of;
(1) construction;
(2) remodeling or expansion of the garage so as to require a building permit; or

(3) expansion of the driveway.

474

City of Monona Code of Ordinances
(e) Vacant and Damaged Buildings (1) Vacant Buildings.

1. Requirement to Secure Vacant Buildings. Any building which is vacant and unsecured for any reason constitutes a public nuisance. No owner, operator or occupant may maintain or permit a public nuisance within the City. The owner shall abate the nuisance by securing the building, including any shed or outbuilding, against entry by persons or animals. This may include, with prior written approval of the Building Inspector, adequately boarding up doors, windows and other openings in a workmanlike manner so as to prevent entry, vandalism or damage. Trespassers, garbage, animals, animal nests and animal nesting materials shall be removed prior to securing the building.
   
2. Other Requirements. The owner of a vacant building shall ensure that the following requirements are met with respect to the vacant building:
   
   1. The utilities, plumbing, electrical and heating systems shall be maintained at all times in a
      safe condition, inactivated or drained so as to prevent the possibility of damage to the structure by the failure of such utilities and so as to prevent hazardous and dangerous conditions.
      
   2. At least one door boarded at the grade level shall be maintained with locks and hinges to permit entry for inspection purposes.
      
   3. Access to the building for inspection purposes is required to be provided to the Building Inspector.
      
   4. Screening or alternate methods of boarding may be permitted upon prior written approval by the Building Inspector.
      
   5. The Building Inspector shall be notified in writing no later than ten (10) days prior to the sale, transfer or possession, or the unboarding of the property.
      

(2) Damaged Buildings. When any building has been damaged by fire or other cause, such that hazardous or dangerous conditions exist, and the building cannot be secured by conventional locking or boarding up of windows and doors, such building shall be fenced off so as to prevent access and entry to the structure and the area immediately surrounding the structure.
(f) Outdoor Storage. No owner, operator, or occupant of property in a residential district shall store or accumulate outdoors on such property any of the following items unless such property is expressly zoned to permit such storage or accumulation:
(1) Vehicles. No owner, operator, or occupant shall store outdoors any vehicle in the street yard of any property in any residential district, except as follows:

1. The number of vehicles in the street yard does not exceed the following number:
   
   1. No more than 3 vehicles per dwelling unit on properties with one or two dwelling units
      located thereon.
      
   2. For properties on which three or more dwelling units exist, the number of vehicles shall
      not exceed the number of parking spaces provided on the site.
      
   3. For purposes of this subsection, one or two vehicles on a single trailer designed for the
      transportation of those vehicles shall be considered 1 vehicle.
      
2. All such vehicle(s) shall comply with all of the following:
   
   1. They are parked completely on a driveway, with no part extending over a sidewalk or public street.
      
   2. They are owned by, and lawfully registered to, at least one of the residents of the dwelling unit, with the exception of temporary guests staying at the dwelling unit.
      
   3. They remain at that location without being moved for no longer than 9 consecutive months.
      
   4. They are lawfully licensed and properly display license plates and current registration.
      
   5. They are in operating condition, except vehicles which are actively being repaired.
      
   6. They are not used for dwelling purposes, except for overnight sleeping for a maximum of
      14 days in any one calendar year.
      
   7. They are not connected to sewer lines, water lines, except temporary electrical
      connections for charging batteries.
      
   8. They are not used to store goods, materials, or equipment other than those items
      considered to be part of the unit or essential for its immediate use.
      475
      

City of Monona Code of Ordinances
c. Except as provided in subsection (1) above, all vehicles shall be stored inside a garage, or outside in the back yard or side yard of the property. Not more than one vehicle may be stored on the side yard of a property and it shall be parked completely on a paved driveway as defined in subsection (d) above. .
d. Notwithstanding any other provision in this subsection, no owner, operator, or occupant of property in a residential district shall park or store outdoors on such property, any semi- tractor or semi-trailer, for a period longer than 24 consecutive hours.
(2) Nonvehicular Items. No owner, operator, or occupant shall store outdoors any non-vehicular personal property in the street yard of any property in residential district, for a period longer than 7 days, except as follows:

1. Items may be stored in not more than two storage containers, each no greater than 75 gallons in size, which possess four complete sides and a lid, all of which are opaque.
   
2. Items may be placed within a closed and locked temporary storage container (commonly referred to as a POD) located on the driveway of the dwelling unit and which does not encroach on the sidewalk or public street. No such storage container shall be located on a property for more than 90 days in any 12 month period.
   
3. Equipment and construction material necessary for construction being performed upon the property may be stored on the property for the duration of a building permit issued by the City, if one is issued, otherwise for a period not to exceed 60 days.
   
4. All construction debris and trash shall be placed within a dumpster or other suitable container. Only one such dumpster or container shall be located on the property at one time and shall be promptly removed upon completion of the construction or renovation project, but in no case longer than 90 days unless extended by the Building Inspector for good cause.
   

(g) Penalty. Any owner, operator or occupant who violates any provision of this Section is subject to the penalties and provisions provided in Section 15-1-30 

Comments on the City meetings for the Week of 3-3-14

For additional information please go to the City Website

MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2014
Finance & Personnel Committee

Canceled

CITY COUNCIL
MONONA PUBLIC LIBRARY MUNICIPAL ROOM
7:00 P.M.

Consideration of Resolution 14-02-1958 Amending the 2014 Capital Budget to Combine Storm Water Engineering Funds and Approving a Proposal from Strand Associates for Construction Design, Administration, and Observation Services for Storm Water Project (Public Works Committee). 

-this is a straightforward time to combine multiple projects into one - potential savings overall and easier for staff to manage.

Consideration of Ordinance 2-14-657 Permitting the Outdoor Consumption of Alcohol (License Review Committee). 

-this originated with a request from a business to the Plan Commission regarding the addition of outdoor seating.  The current proposal would allow food and beverage consumption in a "patio" space...see the meeting packet for more details.  I support this proposal.

Consideration of Ordinance 2-14-658 Pertaining to Commercial Quadricycles (License Review Committee). 

-this is in response to a new state-law changing...At this time I support the ordinance of not allowing these items to operate within the city - however, if there was a business that wanted to operate, we could hear their plans and make modifications in the future.

Consideration of Ordinance 3-14-659 An Ordinance Concerning the Water Utility (Public Works Committee).
-this will be the first-read of this item.

Appointments.
Rebecca Holmquist to the Landmarks Commission (effective March 2014–May 2016).
-I will abstain due to the relationship

CITY OF MONONA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY  

Tuesday, March 4, 2014
6:30 p.m.

Convene in Closed Session under Wisconsin Statute section 19.85(1)(e) Deliberating or negotiating the purchase of public properties, the investing of public funds, or conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a closed session (Discussion of Potential Purchase of Property for Economic Development).
-no comment - this information is not public

Public Works

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

6:30 p.m.

Review bid for Tonyawatha Trail intersection and storm sewer structure replacement

-looks like this item may be under-cost estimates by about 20K.  Look forward to hearing more details when presented to the council.

Update on Frozen Water service issues

-no additional information was provided in the packet...I suspect this will be a review of the current status and continued discussion about getting the word out for folks to run water to help prevent frozen pipes, even when the weather begins to warm (it will take longer for the ground to thaw)

Yard Sign Season....

Well it's that time of year - Yard Sign Season

But this year things might be different...with the amount of snow (Ice and frozen turf) it might be shortened.  I will try to dust-off the signs, but fear they may be frozen-together in storage.  If you would like a yard sign (to look at in your house till you can place outside) let me know.

Going away for Spring Break? Vote by Absentee Ballot

Again this year the Spring Election pairs with MGSD Spring Break.  Anyone that will be traveling for Spring Break (hopefully somewhere warm) and wants to vote with an absentee ballot - here is the information from the GAB
Absentee information from GAB

Monona Tax Rate...how do we compare?

here is a nice document to see how we are doing....

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9K39JKD3LjKemJoYnc4RGJUd00/edit?usp=sharing


what do people think>

Trying out many variations of FTTT (web tool and app). Sorry for the test posts in different areas. I do suggest checking it out...

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Monona Awarded - Most innovative Renewable Energy Project in 2013

Thanks to the Sustainability Committee for their work on this project, and the Monona City Council for it's approval.

For Immediate Release

Date: January 20, 2014
Contact: Janine Glaeser, Project Manager Phone: (608) 222-2525
E-mail: jglaeser@ci.monona.wi.us
MONONA’S SOLAR PROJECT RECEIVES AWARD FOR INNOVATIVE RENWABLE ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR
On January 10, 2014, RENEW Wisconsin recognized the City of Monona for efforts in advancing solar energy in Wisconsin and presented them with their “Most innovative Renewable Energy Project in 2013.”
This Thursday, the final phase of the Monona’s solar project will be commissioned when MG&E provides interconnection for the fourth solar array location. In what has become the largest solar electric project serving a Wisconsin municipality, the City of Monona approved an innovative approach in July 2013 that resulted in the construction of rooftop arrays supplying renewable energy directly to four city-owned buildings.
The four Monona buildings selected to host the solar electric arrays are: City Hall, Public Library, Public Works Garage, and Public Works Dept. Well No. 3. The solar arrays will produce more than 210,000 kilowatt-hours of clean energy per year, equating to 30% of the buildings’ combined electricity usage. All four solar systems, totaling 156 kilowatts, will be online by the end of this week.
The project team was assembled by Solar Connections, LLC, a renewable energy consulting group from Madison. The main partnership of the agreement is between the City of Monona and Falcon Energy Systems, a Colorado-based investment group. In the agreement, the City agreed to lease roof space to Falcon owned solar arrays in exchange for renewable energy credits. Other parties to the project include Bloomington, MN-based tenKsolar who manufactured the solar generating arrays, and Madison-based Full Spectrum Solar who installed and will service the equipment.
In 2009, Monona passed a resolution committing itself to a 25x25 goal, with the vision of generating 25% of electricity and transportation fuels from renewable resources by the year 2025. With the implementation of multiple energy efficiency projects and completion of this 156 kW solar array, the City is significantly closer to their 25x25 goal and saving money on operational costs.

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Well sorry if I filled your timeline up this AM...I have been working on a way to have FB posts make a blog post and the same from blog to FB without a loop. I think I got it fixed. Nice distraction from completing the League of Women Voters guide...

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