Below are all of stories that were posted by Madeline Island News from 2007 to 2009.
Please report any broken links to editor@madelineislandnews.com
NEW!!! SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING AND TOWN MEETING
POSTED: NOV. 30
A Public Hearing is scheduled for Monday, November
30, 2009, at Town Hall at 5:00 PM for the purpose of reviewing and
taking comment on the proposed 2010 Budget. A Budget Summary is posted
around Town, and the full proposed budget is available for viewing at
Town Hall.
Following the Public Hearing there will be a Special Town Meeting for
the purpose of approving the 2010 Highway Expenditures and the 2010 Tax
Levy and for seeking approval from the Town Electorate to purchase two
parcels of land.
Following the Special Town Meeting, there will be a Special Town Board
Meeting for the purpose of approving the 2010 Town Budget.
BUDGET WORKSHOPS THIS WEEK
POSTED: OCTOBER 19
A series of budget workshops are being held this week for various boards and departments in the Town of La Pointe. These workshops are intended for both members and the public to determine financial needs for the upcoming year.
According to the the town's website, meetings will be held at 5pm on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday at Town Hall. See www.townoflapointewi.gov for more details.
STARCK HOLDS ON TO COUNTY BOARD SEAT
POSTED: OCTOBER 14
Mike Starck held on to his seat on the Ashland County Board of Supervisors, defeating his challenger, Tom Nelson in Tuesday's recall election of District 12. Starck received a total of 104 votes to Nelson's 80. Voters in La Pointe cast 178 votes with 103 going to Starck and 70 going to Nelson. Of the six votes cast in Sanborn, Nelson received 5 of those votes.
Starck will serve out the remainder of his term which expires in April of next year.
RECALL ELECTION INFORMATION
POSTED: OCTOBER 12
The Special Recall Election on Tuesday will begin at the Fire Hall from 7am this Tuesday morning until 8pm. Residents who have not registered to vote may do so the same day of the election as long as they have proof of residence. For more information about voting, click here.
CANDIDATES FORUM TO BE HELD THIS SUNDAY
UPDATED: OCTOBER 9
POSTED: OCTOBER 8
There will be a candidate's forum on Sunday, October 11TH at the Fire Hall in La Pointe at 1pm as on Tuesday, Mike Starck will be defending the District 12 seat he currently holds on the Ashland County Board of Supervisors against Tom Nelson who is challenging Starck in a special recall election.
According to Lois Carlson of the Madeline Island Chamber of Commerce, there is no sponsor for this event but The Chamber has assisted with organizing these forums in the past by setting up a location, procuring a moderator, and including the information in Chamber Infoblasts and The Monthly Events & Happenings Calendar.
In an email to Madeline Island News, Carlson said "Since all elections affect our community we want to assist the voters in becoming knowledgeable about each candidate's qualifications and platform. We hope that all audience participants come with thoughtful and respectful questions to contribute to the discussion."
"HALF THE PEOPLE THAT SIGNED THE PETITION HAD ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA WHAT THEY WERE SIGNING."
MIKE STARCK - ASHLAND DAILY PRESS, SEPT. 22, 2009 EDITION
POSTED THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24
The Ashland County Press featured a story by reporter Rick Olvo concerning the upcoming recall election as Tom Nelson seeks to claim Starck's seat or Ashland County District 12 Supervisor.
The story is online and can be found at www.ashlandwi.com. You will need to register before you can see the complete story, however registration is free.
NELSON CHALLENGES STARCK FOR SEAT ON ASHLAND COUNTY BOARD
RECALL ELECTION TO BE HELD OCTOBER 13
POSTED SEPTEMBER 16
La Pointe resident Tom Nelson will challenge Michael Starck in a special recall election to be held Tuesday, October 13 for District 12 of Ashland County Board of Supervisors. District 12 includes the towns of La Pointe and Sanborn. La Pointe resident Michael Starck won the seat a year and a half ago against Donald Moore Sr. of Sanborn, 137 votes to 42.
Last August, Nelson successfully circulated a recall petition to challenge Starck for his seat obtaining nearly 100 signatures of the 84 signatures needed. Recall elections are allowed by The Wisconsin Constitution in Section 12, Article 13. Click here for to see the Wisconsin Constitution.
Anyone wishing to run against Starck had until September 15th to gather signatures and file nomination papers with only Nelson filing papers.
Starck's term expires on April 20, 2010 and if successful in his challenge, Nelson will serve out Starck's term.
TOWN BOARD PASSES MORATORIUM ON RECENT ZONING ORDINANCE CHANGES ENFORCEMENT
POSTED SEPTEMBER 10
Last month, the Town Board passed a resolution putting a moratorium on enforcing recent zoning ordinance changes. This resolution was the result of advice from town's attorney Michael Fauerbach who sited several problems with the recently passed ordinance changes.
These changes recently became law after being approved by the Ashland County Board of Supervisors earlier this summer.
All supervisors voted for this moratorium with the exception of Supervisor Ric Gilman, who voted against it.
On the front page of the town's website (www.townoflapointewi.gov) :
Moratorium on CUP's & Non-conforming lots
-- posted on Thursday, August 27 2009
Per Resolution #09-0811, passed on August 11, 2009, the Town of La
Pointe has placed a moratorium on the use of 4.3.3.of the Town of La
Pointe Zoning Ordinance to justify lesser setbacks for or alterations to
non-conforming lots. Also there shall be no further work done on
existing CUP applications. For further information on this contact the
Town Clerk, Patty Hobin, at 715-747-6913 or by email at
lapointeclerk@cheqnet.net.
Click here for a copy of the resolution.
Click here for a copy of the meeting of August 11.
96 SIGNATURES ON PETITION FOR STARCK'S RECALL
POSTED: August 5
We have just learned that the petition circulating in the Town of La Pointe to remove Mike Starck from the Ashland County Board of Supervisors has been submitted to Ashland County with 96 signatures, 12 more signatures than the 84 needed. Wisconsin law allows for a citizen to file a recall petition against any elected official.
The “right of recall”, a provision in the state constitution which dates back to 1926, was revised in 1981 and can be invoked one year after the official was elected and requires the signatures of 25% of the voting population at the time the official was elected.
On June 1st, life long resident Tom Nelson filed a petition with Ashland County to circulate papers collecting signatures of members of the voting public in La Pointe and Sanborn, districts that Starck represents.
An election will now be held to replace Starck on the County Board, however it is uncertain at this time when the election will take place.
Click here to see the official notice from Ashland County
TOWN'S ATTORNEY FAUERBACH CALLS FOR MORATORIUM ON RECENTLY PASSED ORDINANCES
POSTED: AUGUST 3, 2009
Town's Attorney Michael Fauerbach recently sent a letter to the Town of La Pointe Board of Supervisors advising them to put a moratorium on enforcement of Conditional Use Permits and reduced setbacks for non-conforming lots due to problems with recently passed ordinances.
Fauerbach cited conflicts with parts of the already existing zoning ordinances and advised that any further changes to the La Pointe Zoning Ordinances be submitted by someone with legal training.
In his letter, Fauerbach also expressed concerns over the legality of the process in the rewriting the ordinance and the current open meeting and open records violations complaint filed by Michael Allen and advice on how the town might defend themselves in the future from successful open meetings violation prosecutions.
Click here to read Fauerbach letter.
TPC CHAIR TED PALLAS TO TAKE TPC IN A NEW DIRECTION
POSTED: JUNE 24, 2009
The first Town Plan Commission meeting headed by newly appointed Chairperson Ted Pallas started with statements from Pallas promising a change from the way business has been conducted in the past by former chairs Carl Broberg and Christensen at his first T.P.C. meeting held Wednesday night on June 17, 2009.
At the beginning of the meeting during public comments, addressed the open meeting complaints filed by Michael Allen against former members of the T.P.C. and current Town Board of Supervisors Gilman and Fischlowitz as Pallas vowed to put an end to those accusations "starting tonight". He also explained that from now on, the public would only be allowed to speak at the beginning of the meeting, or if they had an item on the evenings' agenda. Pallas also explained that the agendas would become more detailed "so that the average person can look at it and know what the TPC is talking about." He also went on to say that previous TPC minutes are incomplete and would like to see more important information included in the minutes.
Click here for a copy of the minutes from this meeting.
THESE LAWS ARE BULLSH*T! CYBERSPACE SUCKS!"
TOWN CHAIR GREG NELSON ON WISCONSIN OPEN RECORDS LAWS
TED PALLAS AND CHARLES BRUMMER APPOINTED TO THE TOWN PLAN COMMISSION; PALLAS TO CHAIR
POSTED: JUNE 12
The Town of La Pointe Board of Supervisors met for their regular meeting last Tuesday night on June 9th for their regular meeting. We have not been able to obtain any minutes from this meeting as the newly elected clerk Patty Hobin does not produce draft minutes for immediate distribution as did the previous clerk Larry Whalen, who was recently elected to the Town Board. However, we have obtained the audio recording for this meeting and have provided it on our website for your benefit.
Long time residents Charles Brummer and Ted Pallas were appointed to the Town Plan Commission with Pallas also being appointed the new Chair, replacing Carl Broberg who recently resigned from the Commission.
While listening to this meeting we heard a disturbing statement from Greg Nelson concerning electronic records and Wisconsin Open Meeting laws. This discussion concerned the matter of Michael Allen's recent complaint to the Ashland District Attorney, Sean Duffy.
Click here to listen to Nelson's comments about electronic records.
Click here to listen to Nelson's comments about Wisconsin Law.
Click here to listen to the entire audio recording from this meeting.
FORMAL COMPLAINT FILED WITH THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY
POSTED: JUNE 2
We have learned that there is currently a complaint filed with the Ashland County District Attorney's office against the town of La Pointe concerning open meeting and open records violations. It appears that these complaints were filed in March, 2009.
Click here to read a copy of the open records violation complaint.
Click here to read a copy of the first open meeting violation complaint.
Click here to read a copy of the second open meeting violation complaint.
DRAFT MINUTES FROM MAY 12 TOWN BOARD MEETING
POSTED: MAY 22
We now have a copy of Town Board Meeting of May 12 where zoning text changes were approved to be passed onto the County. The Ashland county approved all of the changes submitted by the Town of La Pointe at their meeting Thursday, May 22 despite a petition being circulated requesting that these changes be tabled until they could be reviewed by legal professionals.
Click here for a copy of the minutes.
BROBERG RESIGNS TPC
HARROLD ALSO RESIGNS
UPDATED: MAY 26
POSTED: MAY 20
Last week we were surpised to hear of Carl Boroberg's resignation from the Town Plan Commission. Broberg was appointed chair of the TPC by Greg Nelson after the 2008 elections replace Barbara Christensen who was not reappointed when her term expired.
Ron Harrold apparently resigned from from the T.P.C. last week also.
We now have a copy of Broberg's resignation letter from the Town Plan Commission.
Click here to read Broberg's resignation letter from the T.P.C..
PETITION CIRCULATING TO STOP ZONING ORDINANCE "TEXT" CHANGES
POSTED: MAY 20
Some La Pointe residents are current circulating the follow petition to be submitted to Ashland County Board of Supervisors before their next meeting Thursday, May 21. The petition reads as follows:
We the undersigned registered voters from the Town of La Ponte are petitioning the Ashland County Board to provide a thorough review of the proposed changes to the Town of La Pointe Zoning Ordinance. The review should be conducted by planning professionals, and should be focused on assuring that any changes passed by the Ashland County Board are in accord with all County, State, and Federal land use rules and regulations, and the Ashland County and Town of La Pointe Comprehensive Plan.
If you would like to sign this petition click here for a printable copy.
You can fax your signed petition to Ashland County to 715-682-7078.
THIS PETITION MUST BE SUBMITTED BY: 8:00am Thursday, May 21
UPDATED!!! SORE LOSER? MIKE STARCK STILL COMPLAINING! DOESN'T "UNDERSTAND" WISCONSIN OPEN RECORDS LAW
UPDATED: MAY 15
POSTED: APRIL 14
It appears that recently defeated Town Board incumbent Mike Stark may be retaliating against those he perceives are to blame for his loss. We recently received a copy of a memo from the Zoning Department from newly elected Town Board Supervisor, Larry Whalen, concerning his property.
On April 9th, 2 days after the town's election, Starck contacted the La Pointe Zoning office to launch complaints against certain properties on Madeline Island including property owned by Whalen.
Starck, apparently angered that his complaint was posted here for everyone to see, responded to the Zoning Administrator, Jennifer Croonborg with a letter.
Click here to read the Zoning Administrator's responses to Starck's complaints.
Click here to read Stark's response to her letter.
Click here to read Croonborg's response.
(EDITOR'S NOTE: It's never too late to learn! Perhaps, someone should pay for an "Mavis Beacon" course for Starck (see www.mavisbeacon.com ). Anyone wishing to do so can contact donations@madelineislandnews.com . We'll be sure he gets it! (The course that is. Wisconsin law may take a while longer!)
BOARD APPOINTS WHALEN TO TPC DESPITE OTHER APPLICANTS; REAPPOINTS THURY, SOUCEK
BROBERG TO REMAIN AS COMMISSION CHAIR
POSTED: MAY 1
The Town Board of Supervisors met last Tuesday night to re-appoint expiring terms of the Town Plan Commission. Even though there were other applicants seeking spots on the TPC, the Town Board voted to appoint newly elected Supervisor Larry Whalen to the position.
Greg Thury, who was appointed this winter to fill a vacated seat, was re-appointed along with Sue Ellen Soucek, whose term had expired. However, no motion was made to remove Commission Chair, Carl Broberg and it appears that Broberg will stay on as Chair.
Click here for a draft copy the meeting minutes.
UPDATED: SPECIAL TOWN BOARD MEETING
UPDATED: APRIL 29
UPDATED: APRIL 23
POSTED: APRIL 21
We just learned that there is a special Town Board meeting this Tuesday night. We do not have any details yet, be we believe it may have something to do with zoning.
As of 8pm Monday evening, there is nothing about this on the official Town of La Pointe website's calendar.
While we were searching for information about this meeting, we also noticed that the Town Board page has not been updated with contact information for the new supervisors Whalen and Ross. However, there is information about the EARTH DAY clean up!!!
Looks like someone is "dropping the ball" again. So much for "change".
Please contact Town Hall 747-6913 for details and accurate information.
Click here for a copy of the draft minutes of this meeting.
MIKE STARCK UN-RESIGNS FROM TPC!
POSTED: APRIL 16
We just can't make this stuff up!!! We just got word that yesterday, Mike Starck submitted a letter of un-resignation from the Town Plan Commission.
Click here for Starck's un-resignation letter.
Click here for Starck's resignation letter.
(Editor's Note: Apparently Starck is unaware
that he no longer has any authority in the Town of La Pointe to make ANY
decisions regarding his appointment to the Town Plan Commission.)
LEASH LAW SIGNS AND PAY RAISE FOR TOWN CLERK UNANIMOUS AT ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
UPDATE: APRIL 23
POSTED: APRIL 15
About 35 residents gathered at Town Hall last night for La Pointe's annual Town Meeting. Zoning issues took up much of the meeting as residents made non-binding motions for review by the new Town Board. The posting of La Pointe's leash law at the for dogs at the ferry dock and various locations around town passed unanimously as did a pay raise for the Town Clerk.
Click here for a copy of the draft minutes.
MIKE STARCK RESIGNS FROM TPC
POSTED: APRIL 9
We have just received word that Mike Starck has resigned from the Town Plan Commission as of today. This leaves Starck sitting on the Ashland County Board of Supervisors. We are surprised at this sudden move and will miss his activities on both TPC and Town Board.
LA POINTE VOTES FOR CHANGE
PATTERSON AND STARCK TAKE "A WAILIN' WITH HAM" (TO GO)!
Starck To Request Recount ???
POSTED: APRIL 8
Following the nations' lead last fall, La Pointe residents expressed their un-happiness with the current affairs of government and voted for change. Challengers Ham Ross and Larry Whalen handily beat incumbents Mike Starck and Jim Patterson for the open seats on the La Pointe Town Board of Supervisors in Tuesday's elections. The unofficial numbers are as follows:
Ham Ross: 127
Larry Whalen 102
Jim Patterson 78
Mike Starck 72
Total Number of Ballots Cast: 213
UPDATE: One of our readers sent us word that Mike Starck has, or is, considering asking for a recount!!!
Click here for the election information page.
FERRY BOATS RESUME OPERATION
POSTED: APRIL 3
Ferry service to and from Madeline island begins as the ice between the dock and Bayfield was thin enough for the first boat to make the trip earlier today.
For the 2009 ferry schedule go to: www.madferry.com
OFFICIAL TOWN WEBSITE FINALLY UPDATED WITH UP-TO-DATE CONTENT
UPDATED: APRIL 6
UPDATED: APRIL 3
POSTED: APRIL 2
One of our astute readers let us know that the official Town of La Pointe website has been updated again! There is now up-to-date content on many of the pages.
Click here to see the Town of La Pointe Official Website
Tell the Town Board what you think. Drop them an email at:
(Editor's Note: Now that the election is over, I wonder how long it will take to get the new information uploaded to their site?)
TOWN BOARD APPROVES CAMPING AND NON-CONFORMING LOT PROPOSALS
UPDATED: APRIL 2
POSTED: MARCH 26
The La Pointe Town Board of Supervisors unanimously approved ordinances concerning camping on private lands at their March 10 meeting.
The camping ordinance prohibits "camping" on any
private land more than 180 days of any 12 month period. The
non-conforming lot proposal would allow construction on lots not meeting
the dimensional requirements on or after the zoning ordinance in-acted
in La Pointe in 1972. Both proposals are currently being reviewed
by the town's attorney, Anich.
(EDITOR'S NOTE: We have learned that these
new proposals were NOT sent to the town's attorney for review, but
directly to Ashland County for approval!!!)
Click here for the draft minutes for the Town Board Meeting of March 10, 2009.
Click here to read the camping ordinance proposal.
Click here to read the non-conforming lot ordinance proposal.
TPC SUBMITS CAMPING ORDINANCE AND NON-CONFORMING LOT PROPOSALS
POSTED: MARCH 26
The Town Plan Commission recently approved proposals for new ordinances concerning camping and non-conforming "grandfathered lots" and has passed these proposals on to the Town Board. Each proposal was approved unanimously by all seven members of the commission.
Click here for the draft minutes of the TPC Meeting of March 4, 2009.
TOWN BOARD APPROVES ORDINANCE CHANGES
"People do not need to know the reasons for the proposed changes." --Greg Nelson, Town Chair at the February 24 Town Board Meeting.
"After the circus last week, one could wonder if we need law enforcement to keep order." --Beth Fischlowitz
POSTED: FEBRUARY 25
The Town Board voted unanimously to approve changes in the Condition Use Permit process, the complaint process, and a new home occupation ordinance drafted by the Carl Broberg and the Town Plan Commission at last Tuesday night's meeting. The final revision completely reflected all of attorney Mathew Anich's recommended changes. However, the draft re-submitted to the Town Board included additions to Anich's recommendations by Broberg.
At the meeting, when the discussion about the CUP ordinance came up, Zoning Administrator, Jennifer Croonborg pointed out that the version distributed and submitted to the Town Board contained additional language that she believed was not legal according to her understanding of State Statutes.
A discussion followed about where the line came from and it was determined that Carl Broberg, Town Plan Chair had inserted the additional wording. The Town Board decided to remove the additional language inserted by Broberg, and unanimously voted to recommend the changes be passed on to Ashland County for review. The Town Board then voted to pass on the Home Occupation ordinance as written on to the County as well.
Later in the meeting, a discussion occurred concerning review and re-write of the Comprehensive (Smart Growth) Plan. Fischlowitz claimed to recall recommending that the C.A.P.P. committee review the plan and highlight some of the things that needed fixed before sending it to the TPC. The Board discussed the responsibility of reviewing the plan and agreed that recommendations for changes could come from anyone, and that they could make changes to the plan at any time.
The Town Board also discussed the future town website. It was agreed that Beth Fischlowitz was going to be the "Website Liaison" and Patty Hobin was hired in a temporary capacity to be the "Website Coordinator", even though no opening for this temporary position was ever posted.
NEW!!! Click here to read the entire document with the inserted changes by Broberg highlighted.
Click here to read a draft copy of the minutes of the meeting.
Click here to listen to audio recordings of the entire meeting.
CANDIDATES FORUM ON SUNDAY, MARCH 22
AT 1PM AT THE FIRE HALL
UPDATED: MARCH 19
POSTED: MARCH 13
The annual candidates forum will be held at the Fire Hall on Sunday, March 21 at 1:00pm. Traditionally, this forum has been used by candidates to answer questions from the public prior to the upcoming elections in April.
This year, Michael Childers will be moderating the forum. We would like to thank Mr. Childers for taking the time to organize this important event for the community.
We recently contacted Michael about this years forum to see about the guidelines, rules, and recording devices.
Childers was kind enough to respond to our email and we have posted it below.
TOWN PLAN COMMISSION TAKES ANOTHER BEATING
UPDATED: MARCH 17
POSTED: FEBRUARY 19
Carl Broberg and the TPC took another verbal beating at last night's public hearing. There was plenty of room at town hall this time as about 20 residents turned out to give comments and listen to others on proposed changes and additions to The La Pointe Zoning Ordinance and this time, everyone got to speak as long as they wanted.
All seven TPC members were present and only two of the Town Board of
Supervisors showed up. However, Town Board Supervisor and liaison to the
TPC, Jim Patterson, did not attend.
At the beginning of the meeting, Broberg gave a short slide show presentation with facts and figures drawn from various sources including "The Comprehensive Plan". When questioned about this slide show and the information it contained, Broberg admitted that it was not available to the public as he had put the slide show together the night before the hearing. (Ironically, the background that Broberg chose for his presentation was a fireworks display!)
Click here to read the rest of the article.
Letters to the Town Plan Commission
Audio Recordings of the Public Hearing
Click here to see the photos taken at the meeting.
(Editor's Note: We have yet to get the actual slide show in electronic format as the Town Board recently decided that Broberg DOES NOT have to provide electronic documents for public information requests. )
TOWN BOARD VOTES DOWN RYDER RECOMMENDATION
TOWN WEBSITE STILL NOT READY
UPDATED: FEBRUARY 26
POSTED: FEBRUARY 15
The Town Board voted not to make the zoning changes recommended by the Town Plan Commission concerning property owned by Jim and Liz Ryder at their meeting held Tuesday, February 10th. The motion failed with the only board members Jim Patterson and Ric Gilman, who moved and 2nded the motion.
Also discussed at the meeting was the official website for the Town of La Pointe. Apparently the website is still not ready, even after months of meetings.
Click here to for a draft copy of the minutes.
CANDIDATES FILE FOR UPCOMING ELECTIONS IN APRIL
UPDATED: FEBRUARY 9
POSTED: JANUARY 19
Hamilton Ross and Larry Whalen filed papers recently indicating their intentions to challenge incumbents Mike Starck and Jim Patterson on the Town Board of Supervisors as both seats are up for grabs in the spring elections.
Patty Hobin is challenging incumbent Larry Whalen for the position of Town Clerk as Whalen has also filed papers to put himself on the ballot for that position as well. However, we have learned that Whalen is withdrawing from the race for Clerk and has endorsed his challenger, Patty Hobin in the latest issue of The Island Gazette.
Incumbent Greg Nelson is running un-opposed for the Town Chair while incumbent Carol Neubauer is also on the ballot for treasurer, running unopposed.
Elections for these positions will be held Tuesday, April 7th.
SEAT FILLED ON THE TOWN PLAN COMMISSION
USE OF ATTORNEY PROTOCOL DISCUSSED-NOT ON THE AGENDA
FISCHLOWITZ PRAISES BROBERG'S BRAVERY
UPDATED: FEBRUARY 15
We finally got minutes from the Town Board Meeting held January 27th, a meeting that lasted over 4 hours.
A seat on the Town Plan Commission has now been filled as Carey Baxter was appointed to the seat vacated by Michael Childers, who resigned in November. Baxter was appointed to the position by the Town Board at the Town Board Meeting on January 28th.
The board also discussed the recommendation from the Town Plan Commission to rezone land owned by Jim and Liz Ryder.
Also, there was a discussion that was not on the agenda, which concerned the TPC Chair's use of the Town's attorney. Supervisor Ric Gillman brought to the meeting, a proposed "protocol" on how the Zoning Administrator and Town Plan Commission should work together; a proposal that was NOT on the meetings agenda.
Click here for a copy of the minutes.
TPC VOTES TO ALLOW ZONING CHANGE FOR RYDER
PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULED FOR FEBRUARY 18 ON MORE PROPOSED ZONING CHANGES
POSTED: JANUARY 27
The Town Plan Commission voted to change the zoning district of land owned by Jim Ryder from W1 to S1 at the TPC meeting held last Wednesday, January 21 2009.
At the meeting, immediately held after the public hearing on the matter, a very lengthy prepared written motion brought to the table by TPC Chair Carl Broberg seemed to indicate that he had already made up his mind on matter even BEFORE the public hearing.
Commissioners voted 3 to 1 on the matter with newly appointed member Greg Thury voting against the motion while Mike Starck abstained. (Vice Chair Ron Harrold was absent.)
There may be some legal issues involved with this matter as it appears the original posting and mailings for the public hearing were not done properly. On January 9th, less than 12 days before the hearing, a new, "corrected" posting appeared on this matter. However it does not appear that a new mailing was sent out to adjoining property owners, and rather than postponing the public hearing, it was held as originally posted.
The Commission has also scheduled another public hearing on more proposed zoning changes. On February 18th, the public will be able to comment proposed changes to Zoning Districts, Definitions, Non-Conforming Grandfathered Lots, and Camping on private lands.
Click here for a draft copy of the minutes from this meeting.
TPC HOLDS PUBLIC HEARING ON ZONING CHANGES TO RYDER PROPERTY
UPDATED: JANUARY 28
POSTED: JANUARY 9
The Town Plan Commission held a public hearing on Wednesday, January 21st, at 4:00pm at Town Hall to gather public input on proposed zoning map changes affecting property owned by Jim and Liz Ryder.
Ryder recently sought Town approval to change the property lines of adjacent parcels of land, and failed; land that he had built a structure upon which did not meet setback requirements.
In an effort to meet setback requirements Ryder requested that parcels owned by himself and his wife be rezoned from W-1 to S-1, which would remedy his setback violation. Otherwise he faces either having to move or tear down the structure.
Ryder circulated a form letter supporting his request and obtained 10 signatures supporting his request including signatures from nearby landowners including TPC/Town Board Supervisor Mike Starck.
Other Town Board members were also present at this hearing including Jim Patterson who also spoke in favor of Ryder's request.
Paul Brummer, a representative from the Sanitary District spoke out against the request and read a letter by Linda Geier, District Clerk of the Sanitary District opposing the change. Brummer also claimed that the notice for the hearing was not properly posted.
Chair Carl Broberg questioned the Sanitary District's taking property owners' rights with a 750' setback from the water treatment ponds, apparently unaware that the setback requirement is from the State of Wisconsin.
One nearby property owner and former Zoning Administrator, Joe McCarthy also wrote letters against the proposal.
Click here for a draft copy of the minutes from Ryder's Public Hearing
Click here to read the official corrected posting of the public hearing.
TOWN BOARD AND TPC MINUTES NOW AVAILABLE
POSTED: JANUARY 24
We haven't received any "reports" on Town Board meetings lately however we have obtained draft minutes from recent meetings. The Town Board held meetings on December 23 and January 13. Click on the links below for draft copies of the minutes from each meeting.
Click here for minutes from the December 23, 2008 Meeting
Click here for the minutes from the January 13, 2009 Meeting
Editor's Note: We have been anticipating the long awaited official Town of La Pointe website, however as of this posting it is still not up, despite claims by Town Board Supervisor Ric Gillman at the November 11th meeting that "...in 30 days it will be up and running." That was over 60 days ago. Apparently the website is still not ready despite numerous meetings over the last year. According to the draft minutes we received, the mock up is done and Gillman was to meet with the designer again on the following Friday.
It remains to be seen what information will be posted on the website. We would hope that it would contain up to date minutes from the meetings of the various town Government entities, not only from the Town Board and Town Plan Commission, but from C.A.P.P., the Winter Transportation Committee, the Library, etc., giving La Pointe residents a useful tool to keep themselves informed. However, we remain skeptical.
In the mean time, we have updated our website with minutes from the Town Plan Commission meetings since the public hearing in September.
Click here for the Town Plan Commission Page
ICE ROAD IS OFFICIALLY OPEN
STATUS UPGRADED TO: TRAVEL AT YOUR OWN RISK
POSTED: JANUARY 22
Island residents are now making their way across the lake to Bayfield as the ice road is officially open to cars and light trucks, however, as usual it is posted "Travel at your own risk". For more information about the condition of the road, please call 715-747-5400 for more details and updates.
TOWN BOARD ALLOWS M.I.S.A. CONSTRUCTION TO CONTINUE; GREG THURY APPOINTED TO TPC
POSTED: DECEMBER 16
The Town Board voted to allow Madeline Island School of the Arts to continue construction despite a request from Zoning Administrator, Jennifer Croonborg to issue a cease and desist order at Tuesday, December 9th's regular Town Board meeting.
The Town Board also appointed Greg Thury, the only applicant to the Town Plan Commission, filling the term ending in April 2009. The remaining seat vacated by Michael Childers is still open and applications are still being taken at Town Hall.
MORE TO COME
Click here to read a copy of the draft minutes.
CANDIDATES FILE FOR UPCOMING ELECTIONS IN APRIL
UPDATED: FEBRUARY 9
POSTED: JANUARY 19
Hamilton Ross and Larry Whalen filed papers recently indicating their intentions to challenge incumbents Mike Starck and Jim Patterson on the Town Board of Supervisors as both seats are up for grabs in the spring elections.
Patty Hobin is challenging incumbent Larry Whalen for the position of Town Clerk as Whalen has also filed papers to put himself on the ballot for that position as well. However, we have learned that Whalen is withdrawing from the race for Clerk and has endorsed his challenger, Patty Hobin in the latest issue of The Island Gazette.
Incumbent Greg Nelson is running un-opposed for the Town Chair while incumbent Carol Neubauer is also on the ballot for treasurer, running unopposed.
Elections for these positions will be held Tuesday, April 7th.
ANNUAL TOWN MEETINGS FOR 2009 BUDGET
POSTED: DECEMBER 12
The town of La Pointe held its annual budget meetings for 2009 to gather public input and pass the proposed budget. At 5:00pm, Monday December 1st, sixteen residents, including the Town Board gathered at Town Hall to hear concerns of citizens. The town's loans, sidewalks, gravel, police protection, and alternative energy were discussed.
Click here for a draft copy of the minutes of the Public Hearing.
Click here to listen to the audio recordings of the Public Hearing
Immediately following the public hearing, was the annual Special Town Meeting where citizens vote on the proposed budget as well as the highway expenditures for the following year. Citizens approved next year's tax levy ($1,513,286.00) adding $25,000 for sidewalk construction, maintenance, and repair; something that was removed from the original proposal. Citizens also approved $2,350,000 for highway expenditures, increasing it over $350,000 to allow for repayment of loans and reimbursement by grants.
Also on the agenda was a request from the Town Board to approve the town board potentially hiring an elected official to perform other duties within the town at an hour wage of $12 per hour. This also was approved by those attending the meeting.
At these types of meetings, Wisconsin law allows citizens to make "advisory" or "non-binding" motions. Some of these types of motions were made at this meeting by resident Tom Nelson and somewhat heated discussions followed.
All motions failed, except one, where Nelson moved, "...that, for the purpose of clarity and so that the public can be allowed to know what is going on that all proposed zoning text or map changes be presented in a format that includes the portions being removed appear in strikethrough and the portions being added appear in a highlighted font." This motioned passed.
Click here for a draft copy of the minutes of the Special Town Meeting
Click here to listen to the audio recordings of the Special Town Meeting
Immediately after this meeting, the Town Board met and approved the proposed 2009 Tax Levy with the additional $25,000, totaling $1,538,286.
Click here for a draft copy of the minutes of the Special Town Board Meeting
PUBLIC HEARING FOR FEBRUARY 18
PROPOSES CHANGES TO ZONING DISTRICTS; ADDITIONS TO DEFINITIONS
NEW CAMPING ORDINANCES, GRANDFATHERED LOTS PROPOSALS
POSTED: FEBRUARY 9
The Town Plan Commission has scheduled a public hearing concerning changes to zoning districts and additions to definitions to the current ordinance. Also proposed, is a new camping ordinance, and a proposal for non-conforming (grandfathered).
The hearing is at 5:00pm at Town Hall.
Click here for the Public Hearing Notice
Click here for the Zoning Districts Proposal
Click here for the Additions to Definitions Proposal
Click here for the Camping Ordinance Proposal
Click here for the Non-Conforming Lots Proposal
Editor's Note: If you want your opinion to be heard concerning these issues, send an email to lapointeza@cheqnet.net or lapointeclerk@cheqnet.net . Your email will be recorded as part of the public record and be forwarded to town officials.
TPC CANCEL'S NEXT WEDNESDAY MEETING; MEETING MOVED UP TO MONDAY AFTERNOON
UPDATED: DECEMBER 23
POSTED: NOVEMBER 28
The Town Plan Commission held a special meeting, Monday December 1st, at 2pm, to discuss "amendments to draft recommendation" made to the Town Board in August. This meeting was moved ahead of schedule in anticipation of a lack of a quorum. The TPC had two open seats, reducing the number of members from seven to five.
Only four members of the commission attended this meeting with Ron Maddich absent and only one member of the public attended.
Under the topic of "Zoning Districts" listed on the agenda, a "Zoning District Use Table", a "Shoreline Preservation Area", and Zoning Map changes were discussed. Under the agenda topic of "Definitions", "Guest House" and "Functional Family" were discussed.
According the draft minutes of this meeting, Carl Broberg, Chair, "...will take these considerations and incorporate into a new Section 3 for review at the next TPC meeting on the 17th of December."
Click here for a copy of the draft minutes
Editor's Note: The "Exchange" building's door is now fixed and the exchange is now open.
TOWN BOARD TO SEND TPC ZONING PROPOSALS TO AN ATTORNEY FOR REVIEW
MIRC "EXCHANGE" FUTURE UNCERTAIN
UPDATED: NOVEMBER 27
The Town Board decided to pass on the recommendations by the Town Plan Commission to Matthew Anich, one of the town of La Pointe's attorneys for review at last Tuesday night's board meeting. The TPC recently resubmitted new drafts of ordinance proposals concerning Conditional Use Permits (CUPs), Home (Business) Occupations, and appeal procedures after reviewing public comment from a public hearing concerning new proposals to zoning ordinances.
Also, members of the public spoke out against what they perceive as a "closing" of "The Exchange" by manager Ted Pallas at the Madeline Island Recycling Center. "The Exchange", a building located at the MIRC, has been a place for people to drop off unwanted household items that others may find useful, rather than disposing of them in. The Exchange has been "closed" to the public for over a month due to a broken door on the building, which has not been fixed.
MORE TO COME
Click here for the draft minutes.
Click here for the audio recordings.
(Editor's note: It has been brought to my attention that "The Exchange" is now open to the public once again.)
BROBERG SUBMITS ORDINANCE REVISIONS AT LAST MINUTE; NO ACTION TAKEN
LOIS CARLSON RESIGNS FROM THE TOWN PLAN COMMISSION
TOWN WEBSITE TO BE READY IN 30 DAYS
Updated: November 13
On Monday, a new item appeared on the agenda for the Town Board meeting held Tuesday night entitled "Adopt, Reject, or Discuss Recommended Zoning Ordinance Changes from Town Plan Commission" with two subheadings of a) CUPs, and b) Home Occupation.
These items were not on the agenda posted the Friday before the meeting but appeared on new agendas posted Monday, By law, the town may revise the agenda at least 24 hours before the meeting.
This agenda item was the result of Carl Broberg submitting "finalized" drafts of zoning ordinance proposals regarding CUPs and Home Occupation around noon on Monday.
This evoked at least one member of the public, Tim Eldred, to complain at Tuesday night's Town Board meeting about the time constraints of reviewing documentation in a short period of time before a meeting. Eldred has been among the many of the more vocal La Pointe residents who are against many of the zoning ordinance changes proposed by the Town Plan Commission.
However, these items were tabled until the next meeting.
It was also announced that Lois Carlson is stepping down from the Town Plan Commission and that the Town Board is now seeking applicants to fill her term, which ends in April of 2009.
Click here for a copy of the TPC's recently submitted revised ordinance proposals.
Click here for a draft copy of the minutes.
Click here to listen to the meeting.
CLERK/TREASURE POSITIONS TO REMAIN ELECTED
Posted: November 5th
A clear message was sent to the La Pointe Town Board of Supervisors in Tuesday's national elections. In addition to presidential and congressional races were two referendums to turn the traditionally elected positions of Town Clerk and Treasurer into positions appointed by the Town Board.
La Pointe residents overwhelmingly voted Tuesday to keep the positions of Town Clerk and Treasurer positions elected, rather than appointed by the Town Board. Referendums to appoint these positions were put on the ballot again this year by the Town Board after both referendums failed by narrow margins in April's elections.
This time, the Clerk's referendum failed with 81 votes for the referendum and 162 votes against. The referendum for the treasure failed by an even bigger margin with 76 votes for and 164 against.
Earlier this year, the same referendums were on April's ballot, with the Clerk's referendum being defeated by only two votes.
TOWN BOARD MEETING OF 10-28
RYDER CSM DENIED; ADVISED TO WAIT UNTIL AFTER ZONING ORDINANCE CHANGES PASS
Updated: November 25
Posted: November 1
From the copy of the draft minutes from this meeting, we have learned that one of the decisions made at this meeting was to deny Jim Ryder's request to change property lines of two adjacent properties to rectify setback problems with buildings he built on these properties.
According to a copy of these minutes, a motion was made by Mike Starck, who moved "...to deny CSM and refund Mr. Ryder’s fee so that he may pursue a map change or wait until the Zoning Ordinance changes pass and take effect to allow non-conforming lots to be created if they are closer to conforming than the original. " The motion passed with all members voting yes.
A petition signed by over 80 residents asking for the reduction of the Town Plan Commission from seven to five members was also addressed again with all board members voting to keep the number of commissioners at seven.
(Editor's note: The minutes for this meeting have not yet been approved by the Town Board, however, we will be posting the audio from this meeting soon.)
Click here for a draft copy of the minutes.
Click here to listen to the meeting.
TOWN BOARD MEETING OF 10-14
Updated: November 11
Posted: October 25
The Town Board met for its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 14. Among the many topics of discussion were the Rice Street sewer extension project, outsourcing management of Big Bay Town Park, reduction of the number of commissioners on the Town Plan Commission, outsourcing the Zoning Ordinance re-write project and the recent TPC public hearing.
The Board approved a plan to create a boardwalk and lookout deck for the Capser trail, approved a resolution appointing new election inspectors as well as budget and wage resolutions. The Board also approved a motion to allow the Town Chair to authorize the Alternative Energy Commission to write and enter into grant agreements.
Click here for a draft copy of the minutes.
Click here to listen to the meeting.
TOWN'S ATTORNEY MICHAEL FAUERBACH OPINION:
PLANNING COMMISSIONERS "SHOULD NOT HAVE VOTED" ON RYDER C.S.M.
Updated: October 10
Posted: October 8
A recommendation by the Town Plan Commission recently caught our attention.
At their September 17th meeting, the TPC approved a request for a C.S.M. for properties owned by Jim & Elizabeth Ryder which would allow them to change the lot lines of three contiguous properties of approximately 21 acres located at Big Bay Road and Snowplace Road; properties that they own and are now selling. The Ryder's requested that the lot lines of these properties, which run parallel to the road, be changed to run perpendicular to the road. The Ryder's currently have setback issues relating to a house and pole barn constructed on these properties.
The Town Plan Commission voted five to one for the change, with one abstention. (Click here for minutes of this meeting.)
What got our attention is that TPC Vice Chair Michael Childers and Lois Carlson voted "yes" on this issue, rather than abstaining. Michael Childers is a realtor for Island Shores Realty and is the agent involved in selling the property. Lois Carlson is the wife of Todd Carlson, owner of Island Shores Realty a company previously owned by Jim Ryder. Ryder now works for Island Shores Realty as an agent. (Click here for the Island Shores Realty website.)
Town's attorney, Michael Fauerbach was contacted by Jennifer Croonborg, La Pointe Zoning Administrator who was unsure if the Town Board could proceed with their vote on the C.S.M. due to this apparent conflict of interest and solicited his opinion before the Town Board meeting where this C.S.M. was discussed.
Fauerbach's response was that he believed that they had violated Sec. 19.59 (c) (1), and probably (2) of Wisconsin law.
TPC TAKES MORE HEAT AT RECENT MEETING
TPC Taking Backward Approach - Tim Eldred
My God, Do It Right the First Time - Dick Hoffman
Projected Population Makes Some Changes Unnecessary - Burke Henry
Updated: October 8
Posted: October 3
The Wednesday, October 1st TPC meeting brought citizens to Town Hall who were not able to speak at the previous night's joint Town Board & TPC Meeting. Several residents spoke out against the proposed zoning changes as well as some of the comments made at that meeting. The Commission listened to over 30 minutes of comments from citizens as well as accepted a petition asking to reduce the size of the TPC from seven members to five.
(Editor's Note: Normal we don't usually provide detailed coverage of Town Plan Commission meetings as much of their meetings usual concern approval of construction and building projects. However, the recent denial of public input at the joint TPC/Town Board meeting urged us to take a look at the meeting on Wednesday, October 1st. Surely, residents who denied the opportunity to address town officials at the previous night's meeting would have something to say the next night. We were right.)
Click here for the story and to hear comments from residents, Tim Eldred, Dick Hoffman, and others.
Click here for Tim Eldred's letter.
Click here for Bill Bussey's letter.
Click here for Burke Henry's letter.
Click here to listen to the audio recordings.
TOWN PLAN COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED ZONING CHANGES
Updated: September 5
Posted: August 22
The Town Plan Commission has scheduled a Public Hearing several zoning changes on September 3, 2008 at the Town Hall. This meeting is for citizens to voice their concern on the following proposed text changes to Zoning Districts, Definitions, Special Uses/Use of Residential Occupational or Business Use, Conditional Uses, and Permit Complaint Process.
Click here for the Hearing Agenda
Click here for a copy of the proposed changes.
Click here for a comprehensive document comparing current ordinances to the proposed changes.
Zoning Administrator's Memo to TB & TPC concerning the affected members of the public by the proposed zoning changes not being duly informed as required by law and Carl Broberg not responding to public information requests.
Zoning Administrator's Review of Proposed Zoning Changes
(Editor's Note: The Zoning Administrator's Review is a MUST READ!!! This document provides MUCH NEEDED clarification between the current ordinances, and what is proposed by Carl Broberg and the Town Plan Commission. This new body of work, if passed, would have sections in it that are in direct violation of county and state statutes. We urge any one interested in Madeline Island zoning to read this document!)
JOINT TOWN BOARD - TPC MEETING PLANNED FOR SEPTEMBER 30
Posted: September 15
A joint meeting between the Town Board and the Town Plan Commission is planned for the evening of Tuesday, September 30th to discuss the TPCs work on zoning changes. Topics to be discussed listed on the agenda include the recent Town Plan Commission public hearing, The Smart Growth Plan, and possible changes in the official La Pointe Zoning Ordinance.
The meeting is scheduled for 6:00pm and is open to the public.
Click here for a copy of the agenda.
SHERMAN DEFEATS RALPH IN DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY
Posted: September 10
Former "islander" and The Island Gazette co-founder, Alan Ralph was defeated in yesterday's primary election for the Democratic spot on the ticket for Assembly District 74. Results obtained from Ashland County's website show "islanders" cast 52 votes for incumbent Gary Sherman, while Ralph only received 24.
Click here for more results from Ashland County.
Click here for the story from The Ashland Daily Press
MADELINE ISLAND NEWS DID NOT PUBLISH ANY STORIES FROM MID-MAY TO MID AUGUST 2008
TOWN BOARD GRANTS CRAFTIVITY/MISA CUP AMMENDMENTS
POSTED: May 31
The Town Board is allowing Craftivity/MISA to move ahead with its plans to build dormitories at their facilities on Middle Road, (formerly known as the Sandstrom Farm). At last Tuesday's meeting on May 27th, Town Board members voted 4-0 to approve Craftivity/MISA's request to build 3 additional buildings for student and family housing. Ric Gillman abstained from voting.
This CUP amendment is based on the recommendations by the Town Plan Commission. There has been some controversy and opposition to this CUP amendment, as it was originally granted to a non-profit group for a art center, who had intended to keep all of the existing structures. The original group disbanded, and is now being ran by Craftivity, a for-profit company ran by Charles Meech.
Nearby land owners have voiced opposition to the "development" at the former dairy farm with an appeal recently filed with the Town by former Sandstrom Art Center director Sara Owen and nearby property owner, Paul Bremer.
Click here for a draft copy of the minutes.
APPEALS BOARD AFFIRMS TPC CUP DECISION FOR CRAFTIVITY/MISA
POSTED: May 22
A Public Hearing and Zoning Board of Appeals meeting were held last Tuesday night for a decision by the Town Plan Commission to allow changes to the Conditional Use Permit for Craftivity/MISA.
Recently, the Town Plan Commission voted to allow Craftivity/MISA to build dormitories at their property at 978 Middle Road (Sandstrom Farm). Two local residents, Paul Brummer and Sara Owen filed an appeal with the town of La Pointe, protesting this decision.
Several residents spoke in protest of the decision, with a few residents speaking in favor of the decision.
After the public hearing, the "Zoning Board of Appeals" (which in fact, is the Town Board), met to decide the validity of the petition, with town attorney Michael Fauerbach present. The Board voted to affirm the Town Plan Commission's recommendation to allow the alteration of Craftivity/MISA CUP, with all members voting "aye", with the exception of Jim Patterson, who abstained.
The Town Board will have the final decision on the CUP, however, it is interesting to note that 3 members of the Board of Appeals/Town Board, Mike Starck, Ric Gillman, and Beth Fischlowitz were members of the Town Plan Commission when the decision was made to allow the alteration of the CUP, with all three members voting in favor of it.
Gilman and Fischlowitz were elected to the Town Board in April and are no longer on the Town Plan Commission. Mike Starck sits on both the TPC and Town Board.
Click here for the draft minutes of the hearing
Click here for the draft minutes of the meeting
TOWN BOARD TO MEET WITH RED CLIFF TRIBAL COUNCIL
POSTED: May 22
The La Pointe Town Board has decided to meet with the Red Cliff Tribal Council to address the concerns of the tribes at their last meeting on Tuesday, May 13th.
Gas and septic bids were also discussed an it was agreed that a special Town Board meeting be held for this topic.
The board also decided to have attorney Michael Fauerbach present at the upcoming Zoning Board of Appeals for the Craftivity/MISA Conditional Use Permit decision.
Click here for a draft copy of the minutes
GASOLINE HITS $4.25 PER GALLON
POSTED: May 14
UPDATED: May 20
The Madeline Island Yacht Club current price for regular gasoline is now $4.25 per gallon, our sources say. A new shipment delivered Tuesday morning replenished the supply of regular 87 octane, which had run out over a couple of weeks ago. The price of premium 91 octane was $3.89 per gallon before the new shipment arrived. Premium is available at $4.44 per gallon.
TPC MEETS FOR SPECIAL MONTHLY MEETING
CRAFTIVITY COMPLAINT ON THE AGENDA
Posted: May 3
The Town Plan Commission met last week for a special monthly meeting, Wednesday, May 7th. Items on the agenda included a complaint against Craftivity, LLC., the company currently operating the Madeleine Island School of the Arts (MISA) at the old Sandtrom farm located on Middle Road.
Previously, a CUP was granted to the Sandstrom Center of the Arts a non-profit organization that had bought the farm to run an art school. Since the CUP was issued, the organization has disbanded, and the farm was taken over by Creativity, a for-profit organization. This company was responsible for the destruction of the barn, the proposed location for the Sandstrom Center. The company rebuilt a new barn-like structure on the property for classes and now wants to build additional buildings to accommodate students.
The Town Plan Commission had previously approved the plans, passing their recommendation onto the Town Board, however a recent complaint legally filed by nearby landowners are keeping the project from moving forward.
Craftivity and MISA are ran by long time island resident, Charles Meech, who, with Craftivity, is entangled in legal battles with local contractors. (Click here for more information.)
TOWN BOARD APPOINTS NEW TOWN PLAN COMMISSION CHAIR; TOWN WEBSITE CONTRACT GIVEN TO NON-ISLAND BASED COMPANY
POSTED: APRIL 22
The Town Board of Supervisors met last night (Tuesday) for their regular meeting and appointed Carl Broberg the new Town Plan Commission chairperson.
The Town Board also moved to give the go ahead to Complete Computer Solutions to create a website for the town.
WINTER STORM SHUTS DOWN FERRY/KNOCKS OUT POWER FOR SOME ISLANDERS
UPDATED: SUNDAY APRIL 13
As anticipated, the ferry boats shut down last Friday, due to a winter storm that passed through the area. The storm brought high winds and several inches of snow to the area, making travel difficult. The storm also knocked out power to some island residents Friday afternoon.
Ferry boats resumed on Saturday, allowing Xcel Energy crews to travel to the island for repairs and power was restored later in the day.
TOWN BOARD APPOINTS NEW TPC MEMBERS
POSTED: WEDNESDAY APRIL 9
Newly elected Town Board of Supervisors took their seats at Tuesday night's meeting held after the annual town meeting with Ric Gilman and Beth Fischlowitz taking the seats of Hamilton Ross and Gary Flores.
Discussions about funding for bicycle and pedestrian programs and trails, zoning administrator duties, and a complaint against Fischlowitz's Coole Park/Brittany Cottages were on the agenda.
During the meeting, Michael Childers and Ron Madich were appointed to the open seats on the TPC left by Fischlowitz and Gillman, after the new board could not come to an agreement about appointing Ron Harrold or Holly Tourdot who had applied and were nominated. (Holly Tourdot has applied three times for a seat on the TPC and recently ran for Town Board)
MORE TO COME
TOWN CLERK RAISE VOTED DOWN AT ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
POSTED: WEDNESDAY APRIL 9
Voters at the annual town meeting voted against a motion to make the elected town clerk's job a 3/4 (30 hours/week )time job with annual pay of $27,000 26 against the 17 in favor. Currently the town clerk's position is currently a 1/2 time (20 hours/week) and $18,000 per year.
FIRST FERRY DAY
Posted: Sunday, April 6
Updated: Tuesday, April 8
The ferry boats to and from Madeline Island are official running now as the lake ice has melted much sooner than anyone would have guessed.
The first trip was on Sunday when three trips were made from the island and back at 9, noon, and 4pm. What little ice was around on Sunday had blown out of the area by Monday morning.
Rates for the ferry are up from last year with an adult passenger ticket at $5.50 and auto rates at $11.50 for one way trips.
For more information, and the current schedule and rates, please visit: www.madferry.com .
LA POINTE WINDSLED RESCUES ICE FISHERMEN
Posted: Sunday, April 6, 2008
FROM: The Ashland Daily Press
A pair of ice fishermen are alive
today thanks to the efforts of the La Pointe Emergency Services Ice
Rescue Team and wind sled, after being plucked out of the freezing
waters of Lake Superior off Roy's Point Thursday.
According to a basic incident listing report from the Bayfield County
Sheriff's Department, the two men were identified by the report as
Daniel R. Kavajecz and Edward Schnell, ages and addresses not available.
A cell phone caller who said the two had broken through the ice offshore
between Bayfield and Red Cliff made the call at 2:01 p.m. The spot is
near the same location where another ice fisherman drowned last year.
The La Pointe wind sled was paged at 2:02 p.m.
(Click here to read the account from the Ashland Daily Press Website)
GILLMAN AND FISCHLOWITZ WIN; TAKE OPEN SEATS ON TOWN BOARD
CLERK AND TREASURER POSITIONS TO REMAIN ELECTED
STARCK WINS COUNTY BOARD SEAT
Updated: Monday April 7, 2008
Posted: Wednesday, April 2nd, 2008
In a very close race for the open Town Board of Supervisor seats, Ric Gillman led the race with 96 votes, while Fischlowitz received 92 votes. Incumbent, Ham Ross received 88 votes while Holly Tourdot received 57. Write in candidates Mike North and Doug Griggs received 3 votes each.
Voters voted to keep the Town Treasurer position elected with a final count of 108 'no' votes to 80 'yes' votes while the Town Clerk position was very close with 95 'no' votes to 93 'yes' votes.
The results for other races where not so close. In the race for the open seat in District 12 of the Ashland Board of Supervisors, islanders gave Mike Starck received 137 votes while incumbent Don Moore Sr. of Odanah received 40 votes. The Ashland County website has La Pointe's votes switched around but if the other results reported are accurate, then Starck's final tally appears to be 154 to 43.
Islanders also gave Dana Noteboom 113 votes while Bob Nelson only received 60.
In the race for the open seat on the Wisconsin Supreme court, sitting Judge Louis Butler received 110 votes from islanders while Michael Gableman received only 48.
On the Wisconsin Constitution amendment, islanders voted 88 in favor of the amendment to restrict the governor's veto powers while 69 voted against it.
A total of 189 voters cast ballots in April 1st's elections with 42 voters casting absentee ballots.
For more information about votes cast in Ashland county, go to: http://www.co.ashland.wi.us/elections/2008-04-01
TPC APPROVES MISA CUP DESPITE PUBLIC OPPOSITION
GILLMAN ANNOUNCES HE IS NOT SEEKING REAPPOINTMENT
POSTED: March 25, 2008
At their regular monthly meeting last Wednesday, March 19th, the Town Plan Commission voted to approve the Madeline Island School of the Arts Conditional Use Permit which would allow them to build three "cottages" for 'student housing', despite strong opposition to this project from adjacent land owners and the public.
The recommendation will go in front of the Town Board, after a 30 day waiting period for a vote. However, the possibility exists that three TPC members who voted for in favor of the CUP will be sitting on the Town Board after the April 1st election.
Commissioner Ric Gillman also announced that he will not be seeking re-appointment to the TPC as his term expires on April 30th, 2008, no matter what the outcome of the upcoming election. (Editor's Note: Gillman is running for Town Board.)
(Click here for the Notice of the MISA CUP Decision)
(Click here for DRAFT of TPC Minutes)
(Click here to listen to the audio recordings of the meeting)
TOWN BOARD/PLAN COMMISSION MEETS WITH ATTORNEY
"WHEN IN DOUBT, DISCLOSE" --Michael Fauerbach on public information requests.
Posted: March 21, 2008
Updated: March 23, 2008
The Town Board met with the Town Plan Commission Thursday evening, specifically to to discuss roles and responsibilities of the Zoning Administrator. Greg Nelson, Town Chair called this after receiving complaints and resignation threats from members of the TPC.
Town of La Pointe Attorney, Michael Fauerbach attended this meeting to help answer legal questions about responsibilities and public information requests. Nelson called in Fauerbach for his experience working with zoning, Town Plan Commissions, and zoning appeals issues in many areas around Northern Wisconsin.
All members of the Town Board were present as were all Town Plan Commissioners with the exception of Ric Gilman. Carl Broberg left about 45 minutes into the meeting. Zoning Administrator Jennifer Croonborg was also present.
Town Chair, Greg Nelson had solicited written comments from Town Plan Commissioners requesting their thoughts on the roles and responsibilities of the Town Plan Commission and Zoning Administrator.
Only four members wrote responses to Nelson's request. Town Board member Jim Patterson said that after reading the letters that Nelson received, that he was very disappointed and that there didn't seem to be a great deal of respectful for the ZA, citing one of the more extreme examples, "...she should sit there and speak when spoken to."
One of the purposes of this meeting was to try and define, for everyone concerned, what exactly where the responsibilities of the Town Plan Commission and the Zoning Administrator, with Fauerbach present for any clarifications as La Pointe Zoning Ordinances and TPC By-Laws states some specifics. Apparently there has been a great deal of confusion among Town Plan Commissioners as to whom is responsible for what.
(Click here to listen to audio recordings of the meeting.)
(Click here for Croonborg's letter to Christiansen concerning late CUP notice)
(Click here for Christiansen's letter concerning Agenda Item: Roles & Responsibilities)
(Click here to read the letter submitted by Barbara Christiansen)
(Click here to read the letter submitted by Beth Fischlowitz)
(Click here to read the letter submitted by Lois Carlson)
(Click here to read the letter submitted by Sue Ellen Soucek)
(Click here to read Croonborg's response to the TPC concerning their letters.)
(Click here to read the job description of the Zoning Administrator.)
TOWN BOARD MEETS FOR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING
JOINT MEETING PLANNED WITH TPC, ZA, & TOWN ATTORNEY
Updated: March 24, 2008
Posted: March 17, 2008
The Town Board met Tuesday, March 11 for their regular monthly meeting, however, two members, Hamilton Ross and Michael Starck were absent.
A joint meeting is being planned with the TPC to discuss new ordinances that were presented to the Town Board:
Chapter
288--Intoxicating Beverages
Chapter 350--Peace and Good Order
Chapter 394--Streets & Sidewalks
Chapter 425--Vehicles & Traffic
(Click on the ordinances above to view them in more detail.)
These ordinances were originally presented at the February 26, 2008 Town Board Meeting at which Town Chair, Greg Nelson stated that there appears to be "some strange working circumstances" between the Zoning Administrator (Jennifer Croonborg) and the Town Plan Commission Chair (Barbara Christiansen). He stated that he attended a TPC meeting (March 5, 2008) where roles and responsibilities were discussed.
Click here for the audio recordings
TOWN BOARD APPROVES RICE STREET PROJECT
Updated: March 17, 2007
The Town Board voted unanimously to go ahead with a plan to connect Rice Street & Big Bay Road with Sunny Slope Road at the parking lot by Griggs approach at a meeting on February 26, 2008.
Click here for the agenda of the February 26, 2008 Town Board Meeting
(Click here for the audio recordings for the Town Board Meeting on February 26, 2008)
(Click here for the meeting minutes of the February 26, 2008 Town Board Meeting)
GYPSY-MOTH SPRAYING PUBLIC MEETING
Posted: March 14, 2008
The Wisconsin Cooperative Gypsy Moth Program will hold four public meetings in March to give citizens, foresters, local officials and others an opportunity to learn about the program and comment on the proposed treatment plan.
A local meeting will be held Monday, March 17 at Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center, 29270 County Highway G, in the Multi-Purpose Room, from 3-5 p.m.
(Click here to read the story from the Ashland Daily Press website.)
(Click here to go to the Wisconsin Cooperative Gypsy Moth Program site.)
THE INNER WORKINGS OF THE TOWN PLAN COMMISSION
Part 1 Posted: March 4, 2008
The Inner Workings of the Town Plan Commission
Part 1 - An Introduction
Part 2 - The Codification Project
Part 3 - Confusion and Vagueness
Part 4 - Conclusion
MADELINE ISLAND WINDSLED FEATURED IN SUNDAY'S NEW YORK TIMES
Posted: February 26, 2008
The Sunday, February 24, 2008 New York Times featured a story and photos about Madeline Island's "School Bus Wearing Skis". The story was written by Susan Saulny and featured photographs by T.C. Worley and is currently featured on the New York Times website.
Click here to see the story and the photos.
RIC GILLMAN WINS PRIMARY BY ONE VOTE
POSTED: February 20, 2008
Nearly 200 votes were cast in Tuesday's primary election out of the nearly 300 voters currently registered with 17 absentee ballots being cast. In the election for Town Board, Ric Gillman came in first with 81 votes, one vote ahead of Beth Fischlowitz who received 80 votes. Holly Tourdot received 51 votes while incumbent Ham Ross received 50 votes.
All four candidates will be on the ballot again for the upcoming election on April 1st. Barbara Christensen, who had decided to drop out of the race did not decide to do so in time to take her name off of the ballot. A primary election is held whenever there are more than four candidates running for Town Board.
TOWN BOARD KILLS NUISANCE PROPERTY ORDINANCE; APPROVES CLERK, TREASURER REFERENDUMS ON APRIL BALLOT
UPDATED: February 18, 2008
POSTED: February 14, 2008
The Town of La Pointe Board of Supervisors of the Town of La Pointe met Tuesday night for their regular monthly meeting last Tuesday night.
The proposed nuisance property ordinance, the Town Plan Commission ordinance review project and public hearings, and a new referendum concerning the Town Clerk and treasurer positions.
New Winter Transportation Committee and Library Board members were appointed during this meeting as well.
Click here for the story and updates
Click here for the audio recordings
LARGE TURNOUT FOR NUISANCE PROPERTY WORKSHOP
Updated: Feb. 6, 2008
Posted: February 1, 2008
Despite the blowing snow and below-zero temperature and wind-chill, the La Pointe Town Hall was nearly full, with members of the public concerned with the proposed property nuisance ordinance at Tuesday night's Public Workshop. Nearly fifty people braved the weather-- despite travel warnings--to voice their opinions on the proposed Nuisance Property Ordinance.
Over the past few weeks, Town Board members have been receiving many comments and complaints about the proposed ordinance-- drafted and approved by the Town Plan Commission --during their ordinance review project.
All members of the Town Board were in attendance as well as some of the members from the Town Plan Commission. Town Chair Greg Nelson said that he felt it was important to hold a workshop to gather public input, rather than to take the time to go through the process of holding a Public Hearing.
Included in the workshop were discussions about two petitions that were submitted to the Town Plan Commission and then misplaced, the actual ordinance review project itself, and clarification of the process of same.
Click here for the story and copies of the petitions.
Click here for hear the audio recordings
TOWN BOARD DISCUSSES SEWER PROJECT; TOWN CLERK/TREASURES JOBS; TOWN WEBSITE
Posted: February 1, 2008
Updated: February 15, 2008
The town board met last Monday night for their regular monthly meeting Tuesday, January 28th.
The upcoming storm sewer project, the town clerk and treasures positions, and a town website were the main topics of discussion.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has approved the town's storm sewer project, however, local native American Ojibwa tribes are contesting the the Corp's approval, claiming that Section 106 was not done properly. "Section 106" is part of the the Nation Historic Preservation Act which requires government agencies to evaluate the impact of all government-funded construction projects. (See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Historic_Preservation_Act and http://www.usace.army.mil/cw/cecwo/reg/hptc/RegAppCBrochure_19jul07.pdf for more information.) This prompted a letter from the tribes concerning the project which was discussed at the meeting.
The board also voted 4 to1, to create new ordinances to make the Town Clerk and Town Treasure positions appointed positions. In order for these ordinances to become law, they must be voted on by the public. Combining the positions was also discussed and advocated by Town Chair, Greg Nelson who voted against the motion.
The Board also discussed creating a website based on recent C.A.P.P. Committee recommendations and a proposal from Larry Whalen (Town Clerk) for a site he submitted in 2005.
Burke Henry reported on equipment status and budget for the Winter Transportation committee.
Click here for audio recordings
TOWN BOARD APPOINTS NEW TOWN PLAN COMMISSIONER
TOWN BOARD MEETS 01-08-07
The La Pointe Town Board met last (Tuesday) night for their regular meeting, with several members of the public including many members of the Town Plan Commission in attendance. Among the motions last night, was a motion that was passed to remove Dick Hoffman from the Town Plan Commission. Immediately followed a motion that was moved and passed with no discussion, to appoint Sue Ellen Soucek to the Town Plan Commission. The only other applicant was Holly Tourdot, who is also running for Town Board in the upcoming elections in April.
Also discussed was the "revised" junk/nuisance property ordinance apparently discussed at the last Town Plan Commission Meeting 12-19-07. (From what we can tell from the audio recordings, it was generally agreed by the group to revise the ordinance, but no motions were made and, thus no votes were taken, and the rewrite makes it to the Town Board agenda.)
Click here for the Audio Recordings
TOWN BOARD TAKES HEAT FOR PROPOSED "JUNK CAR/ NUISANCE PROPERTY ORDINANCE"
TOWN BOARD MEETS 12-27-2007
The La Pointe Board members met for their regularly scheduled meeting, at 5:30pm Thursday, 12-27-2007. All members were present including 15-20 members of the public. The main topic that seemed to be on the public's mind was the proposed "Nuisance Property/Property Maintenance Ordinance" drafted by the Town Plan Commission, a topic on the Agenda. Other topics included "being physically present" for committee meetings (calling into a meeting via telephone is not acceptable) and required detail of committee meeting minutes and agendas.
Click here for the entire story.
TOWN PLAN COMMISSION EXPLAINS "JUNK CAR/NUISANCE PROPERTY ORDINANCE"
TOWN PLAN COMMISSION MEETING 12-19-07
The La Pointe Town Plan Commission met for their regularly scheduled meeting at 5:00pm on Wednesday 12-19-07. Members of the public were present, apparently concerned about a proposed "nuisance property" ordinance. This ordinance appeared as an item on the Town Board Meeting Agenda for 12-27-07.
When members of the public began inquiring about the ordinance, Zoning Administrator Jennifer Croonborg, the public official designated to respond to public information requests, could find no mention of discussions or motions in previous TPC Meeting Minutes despite the claims of Town Plan Commissioners stating otherwise.
Also, in her attempt to fulfill public information requests, she states that she has found many of the TPC Agendas to be vague and TPC Minutes to be missing mention of discussions that may have taken place concerning new ordinances and proposed ordinance changes that were listed on the Agendas.
Click here for the entire story.
Click here to read the ordinance.
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