Board of Supervisors Meeting — Agenda Packet

1 Sawyer County County Board of Supervisors Meeting Thursday, July 16, 2026 @ 5:00 PM Sawyer County Board Room AGENDA 1. ZOOM LINK a. To view or participate in the virtual meeting from a computer, iPad, or Android device please go to https://zoom.us/j/95015680309 You can also use the dial in at 1-312-626-6799with the Webinar ID: 950 1568 0309. Use *9 to Raise/lower hand and *6 to Unmute/mute. If you are on a computer, click the "Raise Hand" button and wait to be recognized. If you are on a telephone, dial *9 and wait to be recognized. If additional assistance is needed please contact the County Clerk's Office at 715- 634-4866 prior to the meeting. This meeting will be recorded and will be available on our website at: https://sawyercountygov.org. 2. CALL TO ORDER 3. ROLL CALL 4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 5. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW 6. MEETING AGENDA 7. PUBLIC COMMENTS At this time, members of the public will be given the opportunity to address the Board. Please adhere to the following when addressing the Board: • Comments will be limited to 3 minutes or less per individual. • Comments should be directed to the Board as a whole and not directed to individual Board members. • The Board cannot respond to your comments during this time. • Please sign in and fill out a public comment sheet if you wish to speak on an item. 8. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING a. Previous Meeting Minutes 9. NORTHWEST REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION - SHELDON JOHNSON a. NWRPC Presentation 10. ZONING COMMITTEE Page 1 of 73 2 a. Zoning Committee Chair Report b. Zone District Map Amendment for RZN #26-008. Emerson & Evelyn Martin - Request to rezone approximately 6.37 acres of A-1 to RR-1. Zoning Committee and Town of Hayward recommend approval (Discussion/Action) (Resolution attached) c. Zone District Map Amendment for RZN #26-010. Rosalie Sheptick - Request to rezone approximately 6.12 total acres between 4 separate lots from RR-1 to C-1. Zoning Committee and Town of Hayward recommend approval (Discussion/Action) (Resolution attached) d. Zone District Map Amendment for RZN #26-011. Mark Geddes - Request to rezone approximately 0.57 acres of R-1 to C-1. Zoning Committee and Town of Hayward recommend denial (Discussion/Action) (Resolution attached) 11. PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE a. Public Works Committee Report 12. PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE a. Public Safety Committee Report 13. LAND, WATER, AND FOREST RESOURCES COMMITTEE a. LWFRC Committee Report 14. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & UW EXTENSION COMMITTEE a. Economic Development & UW Ex Committee Report b. Resolution 2026-____Weiss and Winter Library Support (Discussion and Possible Action) 15. FINANCE COMMITTEE a. Finance Committee Report 16. HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES BOARD a. HHS Board Report- No Quorum 17. SAWYER COUNTY ADMINISTRATION a. Administration Committee Report b. County Administrator's Report Page 2 of 73 3 c. CJCC Committee Report 18. BOARD APPOINTED COMMITTEE UPDATES 19. CORRESPONDENCE, REPORTS FROM CONFERENCES AND MEETINGS 20. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 21. NEXT MEETING DATE /TIME: AUGUST 20, 2026 AT 5:00 PM 22. ADJOURNMENT DISCLAIMER: Copy sent via email to: County Board and News Media. Note: Any person wishing to attend whom, because of a disability, requires accommodation should call the Sawyer County Clerk’s Office (715.634.4866) at least 24 hours before the scheduled meeting so appropriate arrangements can be made. Mission Statement: The Sawyer County Board of Supervisors will strive to provide excellent services and responsible leadership to protect and enhance Sawyer County citizens, businesses, and resources, while preserving our unique heritage. Page 3 of 73 Minutes of the June 18, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Sawyer County Courthouse/Virtual Voting Committee Members Present (X) Roll Call Dis tric t Wards Steve Kariainen 01 T Lenroot W-1, T Hayward W-7, C Hayward W-5 Kay Wilson 02 T Lenroot W-2, T Round Lake W-1 Steve Longtine- Absent 03 T Hayward W-1 & 2 Stacey Hessel 04 T Hayward W-3 & 4 Randy Neumann 05 T Hayward W-5 & 6 Marc D. Helwig (Late) 06 C Hayward W-1 & 2 Jim Miller 07 C Hayward W-3 & 4 Marshal Savitski 08 T Bass Lake W-1 & 2 Jim Evans 09 T Bass Lake W-3 & 4 Chuck Van Etten 10 T Sand Lake, T Edgewater W-1 Jeff Hoehne 11 T Edgewater W-2, T Bass Lake W-5, T Meteor, T Couderay, V Couderay John Righeimer 12 T Spider Lake, T Round Lake W-2, T Winter W-1 Ron Kinsley 13 T Hunter, T Radisson W-1, T-Ojibwa W-1, V Radisson Ron Buckholtz 14 T Radisson W-2, T Ojibwa W-2, T Weirgor, V Exeland, T Meadowbrook John Minto- Absent 15 T Winter W-2, T Draper, V Winter Also present: Jay Kozlowski, Doug Mrotek, Bryan Deyo, Mike Markgren, John Pinnow-virtual Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance–Chairman Kinsley called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm. Roll call was taken; quorum was met. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Meeting Agenda – Set Public Comments – None Supervisor Helwig entered 5:03pm Sheriff Mrotek recognized Law Enforcement and a citizen for their roles in responding to a Radisson homicide call and investigation leading to the quick arrest of the suspect: Dispatcher Amber Elcombe, Deputies Wohling and Frey, and Detectives Dantzman and Gillis received Letters of Commendation. Citizen Dale Magnuson received a Letter of Recognition for his cooperation in the investigation. Chief Bryan Deyo received a Letter of Exceptional Service for his detective work on nine homicides, 31 deaths, 46 sexual assaults, 2 stabbings, 19 arsons and fraud and embezzlement cases. Minutes from the previous meeting dated: May 21, 2026 Motion to approve by: Mr. Buckholtz Second by: Mr. Helwig Motion carried without negative vote. Page 4 of 73 Chairman Kinsley stated the board will present something in July to proclaim the month of August as ALS Awareness Month. Appointments—Mr. Kozlowski recommended the appointment Al Gerber for a three-year term Sawyer County Board of Appeals/Board of Adjustment. Motion to appoint Al Gerber to a three-year term on the Sawyer County Board of Appeals/Board of Adjustment by: Mr. Buckholtz Second by: Mr. Evans Motion carried without negative vote. Zoning Committee – Mr. Buckholtz gave the Zoning Committee Chair report: the committee has heard 349 LUPs to date. Zone District Map Amendment for RZN #26-002 for Thomas and Jean Carr to rezone 3.5 acres from RR-1 to C-1 was approved on a motion by: Mr. Buckholtz Second by: Mr. Kariainen Motion carried without negative vote. Zone District Map Amendment for RZN #26-009 for Hazel Magnuson, agent Benjamin & Jaclyn Tweed to rezone 0.44 acres across two separate lots from A-1 to RR-1 was approved on a motion by: Ms. Hessel Second by: Mr. Neumann Motion carried without negative vote. Public Works Committee— Mr. Helwig updated the Board on department reports for Maintenance, Airport, and Highway. Resolution 2026-____ Hangar Lease Area Agreement Hanna Bay Holdings, LLC was approved on a motion by: Mr. Evans Second by: Mr. Helwig Motion carried without negative vote. Speed Reduction— Mr. Pinnow presented a request to reduce speed on CTH B between CTH S and Musky Tale Road from 55mph to 45mph following safety concerns discussed in the Traffic Safety Committee on May 20. The request was approved at Public Works for consideration by the County Board. Motion to approve the speed reduction by: Mr. Helwig Second by: Mr. Neumann Motion carried without negative vote. Public Safety Committee — Mr. Buckholtz reviewed the Clerk of Courts, Sheriff’s Department, Jail, Emergency Management, Dispatch, Child Support, Code Enforcement and Emergency Services and Tower reports for the board. Land, Water and Forest Resources Committee— Mr. Kariainen reviewed the events applications, Register of Deeds, Land Records, Surveyor, Forestry, Zoning Conservation and Trails reports. Finance Report - Mr. Righeimer provided an update on county finances and department budgets. Page 5 of 73 HHS Report—Ms. Wilson reported on the June 4 meeting of the HHS Board discussion of HHS Bylaws and shared reports from ADRC and Adult Protective Services, Community Support and Mobile Crisis, Child Protective Services, Youth Justice, Economic Support and Public Health. Economic Development and UW Extension Committee— Mr. Righeimer gave the June Economic Development and UW Extension Committee report on a proposed resolution for the library funding process, Hayward Lakes Visitor & Convention Bureau, the Sawyer County Economic Development Corporation and motorized trail report. Administration Report— Mr. Kinsley reported that the Administration Committee met and heard reports from the County Clerk, Veterans, IT, and HR departments, the County Administrator, and the Veterans Tribute update. The 2026 Term County Board Policy & Procedures Manual was reviewed and discussed. Resolution 2026-____to Adopt County Board Policy & Procedures Manual as presented was approved on a motion by: Ms. Hessel Second by: Mr. Savitski Motion carried with one opposed. The proposed AI policy was presented by Mr. Markgren and approved on a motion by: Mr. Hoehne Second by: Mr. Helwig Motion carried without negative vote. The Personnel Policy Manual Updates were presented and reviewed by Mr. Markgren. Motion to approve the Personnel Policy Manual updates by: Mr. Helwig Second by: Mr. Savitski Motion carried without negative vote. County Administrator’s Report— Mr. Markgren updated the committee on the new Sawyer County Economic Development Executive Director Brian Priester and reported that the 2027 budget process was approved at Finance Committee and instructions sent out to Department Heads and outside organizations. He attended the Wisconsin Counties Association District meeting in Hayward on June 17th. The Public Works Ad-hoc committee continues to meet bi-weekly to work on an agreement with the WOJB Tower, which will require approximately $90,000 in upgrades if used for the Public Safety radio network. Mr. Bisonette is reaching out to Enbridge for possible funding support. CJCC— The Committee heard a presentation on local jail programs offered by Northwood Tech, which are having a positive effect on lowering recidivism by 47% statewide. Both Judge Isham and Judge Smith stated that the County’s programming and focus on youth diversion is really paying dividends with our kids regarding improving their behaviors and focus. Dave Dixon reported that Timber Bay is doing very well. They have about 18 youth in the program and 9-10 or so coming to weekly events. Board Appointed Committee Updates— Mr. Kariainen reported on ICAA, NWWIB and CEP meetings he attended. Mr. Buckholtz reported on Namekagon Transit. Mr. Evans stated that the Dairy Association Pancake Breakfast is June 27 at the Fairgrounds. Correspondence, Reports from Conferences and Meetings- Mr. Kinsley reported that the Public Works Ad-hoc committee meetings are going well and the Tribe has been open and willing to discuss a variety of business items. Page 6 of 73 Future Agenda Items- ALS Awareness Proclamation Meeting Adjourned at 6:09 pm Next meeting: Thursday, July 16, 2026 Time: 5:00 pm Location: Board Room Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 7 of 73 ORGANIZATIONALSTRUCTURE ORGANIZATIONALSTRUCTURE www.nwrpc.com Page 8 of 73 PLANNING/GIS COMMUNITY DEV. WATER RESOURCES PLANNING/GIS COMMUNITY DEV. WATER RESOURCES ADMINISTRATION & FISCAL ADMINISTRATION & FISCAL HOUSING HOUSING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ENVIRONMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL NWRPC NWRPC Page 9 of 73 PLANNING - GIS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT- WATER RESOURCES COASTAL MANAGEMENT - WATER RESOURCES TRANSPORTATION & TRAILS MAPPING/GIS COMPREHENSIVE & COMMUNITY PLANNING STAFF: JASON, EMILY, CLEM, MEGAN, AUTUMN, SHELDON Page 10 of 73 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NORTHWEST WI BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORP. (NWBDC) WISCONSIN RURAL ENTERPRISE FUND (WREF) SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION MICROLOAN RLF WISCONSIN BUSINESS INNOVATION CORPORATION (WBIC) + VISIONS NORTHWEST NORTHWEST WI REGIONAL ECONOMIC DEVLEOPMENT FUND (NWREDF) ENTERPRISE CENTER NETWORK STAFF: SHELDON, CRYSTAL, COLE, CHRISTINA, MARIANN, JOY Page 11 of 73 CEDS PURPOSE: THE COMPREHENSIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (CEDS) FOR NORTHWEST WISCONSIN PROVIDES A UNIFIED, STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THAT GUIDES REGIONAL EFFORTS TO FOSTER A MORE RESILIENT AND PROSPEROUS ECONOMY. TOGETHER, THESE TOP FOUR PRIORITIES AIM TO POSITION THE REGION FOR ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT WHILE PRESERVING THE CHARACTER AND VITALITY OF ITS COMMUNITIES. REGION COVERED: ASHLAND, BAYFIELD, BURNETT, DOUGLAS, IRON, PRICE, RUSK, SAWYER, TAYLOR, AND WASHBURN COUNTIES AND TRIBAL NATIONS OF BAD RIVER, LAC COURTE OREILLES, RED CLIFF, ST. CROIX, AND LAC DU FLAMBEAU GOAL 1: STRENGTHEN AND DIVERSIFY THE LOCAL ECONOMY THROUGH BUSINESS SUPPORT AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT GOAL 3: LEVERAGE NATURAL RESOURCES AND TOURISM TO DRIVE ECONOMIC GROWTH AND REGIONAL RECOGNITION GOAL 2: INVEST IN INFRASTRUCTURE AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TO SUPPORT SUSTAINABLE GROWTH GOAL 4: STRENGTHEN REGIONAL ECONOMIC RESILIENCE TO WITHSTAND DISRUPTIONS AND ENSURE LONG-TERM STABILITY Page 12 of 73 ENTERPRISE CENTER NETWORK GRANTSBURG 32,000 SQ. FT. SPOONER 60,000 SQ. FT IRON RIVER 28,000 SQ. FT. PHILLIPS 20,000 SQ. FT. SIREN 16,000 SQ. FT. STAFF: COLE, SHELDON Page 13 of 73 HOUSING NORTHWEST AFFORDABLE HOUSING (NWAH) REGIONAL HOUSING PROGRAM FUND HOME FUND HCRI FUND STAFF: KIM, MIKE, MARIANN, ABIGAIL, SHELDON Page 14 of 73 HOUSING BASIC PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Must own the home Hold current homeowners insurance Property taxes must be current Fall below income limits for number of people in the home Have a positive amount of equity in the home H O U S E H O L D I N C O M E L I M I T S 1 P e r s o n 2 P e r s o n s 3 P e r s o n s 4 P e r s o n s 5 P e r s o n s 6 P e r s o n s 7 P e r s o n s 8 P e r s o n s $ 5 3 , 8 0 0 $ 6 1 , 4 5 0 $ 6 9 , 1 5 0 $ 7 6 , 8 0 0 $ 8 2 , 9 5 0 $ 8 9 , 1 0 0 $ 9 5 , 2 5 0 $ 1 0 1 , 4 0 0 SAWYER COUNTY LOANS S a w y e r C o u n t y R L F - 3 9 O u t s t a n d i n g L o a n s $ 8 7 3 , 6 0 7 . 9 6 R e g i o n a l - 3 8 O u t s t a n d i n g L o a n s $ 1 , 1 5 4 , 3 3 2 . 9 4 N W A H H O M E - 6 O u t s t a n d i n g L o a n s $ 7 2 , 5 3 3 . 0 0 N W A H H C R I - 3 O u t s t a n d i n g L o a n s $ 9 , 0 0 0 . 0 0 T O T A L - 8 6 O u t s t a n d i n g L o a n s $ 2 , 1 0 9 , 4 7 3 . 9 0 Page 15 of 73 DOUGLAS COUNTY RECYCLING HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE PROGRAM RECYCLING CONTROL COMMISSION B u r n e t t & W a s h b u r n ENVIRONMENTAL STAFF: SHELDON, SCOTT, ABIGAIL VSQG MILK RUN Page 16 of 73 SAWYER COUNTY C L E A N S W E E P 2 0 2 6 WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23RD 2:00PM - 6:00PM SAWYER COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS 14655 CO. HWY B ACCEPTED ITEMS INCLUDE: OIL BASED OR LEAD PAINT AEROSOL SPRAY PAINTS AND LUBRICANTS SOLVENTS PESTICIDES FERTILIZERS HOUSEHOLD AND HAZARDOUS CLEANERS CORROSIVES FLAMMABLES MERCURY LEAD TACKLE/SHOT OLD GAS ANTIFREEZE OTHER CHEMICALS YOU WOULD NOT CONSIDER DUMPING ITEMS NOT ACCEPTED: LATEX PAINT EMPTY PAINT CANS OIL FILTERS MOTOR OIL EXPLOSIVES, FLARES, OR FIREWORKS FREON 11 & 12 RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL AMMUNITION COMPRESSED GAS CYLINDER OF ANY SIZE RECYCYLING APPLIANCES ASBESTOS BIOLOGICAL/INFECTIOUS WASTE SPRAY FOAM CYLINDERS PFAS CONTAINING ITEMS Page 17 of 73 ADMINISTRATION & FISCAL BUDGET PREPARATION & ADMINISTRATION HUMAN RESOURCES, PAYROLL, BENEFITS MANAGEMENT LOAN TRACKING GRANT & PROJECT MANAGEMENT & REPORTING PURCHASING INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY STAFF: SHELDON, MARIANN, ABIGAIL, CHRISTINA, CRYSTAL Page 18 of 73 Page 19 of 73 Page 20 of 73 Page 21 of 73 Page 22 of 73 Page 23 of 73 Page 24 of 73 Page 25 of 73 Page 26 of 73 Page 27 of 73 Page 28 of 73 Page 29 of 73 Page 30 of 73 Page 31 of 73 Page 32 of 73 Page 33 of 73 Page 34 of 73 Page 35 of 73 Page 36 of 73 Page 37 of 73 Page 38 of 73 Page 39 of 73 Page 40 of 73 Page 41 of 73 Page 42 of 73 Page 43 of 73 Page 44 of 73 Page 45 of 73 Page 46 of 73 Page 47 of 73 Page 48 of 73 Page 49 of 73 Page 50 of 73 Page 51 of 73 Page 52 of 73 Page 53 of 73 Page 54 of 73 Page 55 of 73 Page 56 of 73 Minutes of the July 8, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Public Works Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room; Sawyer County Voting Committee Members Present: Others Present: Ron Kinsley Mike Markgren Marc Helwig Liz Klein Randy Neumann Derek Leslie Chuck Van Etten John Pinnow Jim Evans- Virtual Jayne Schroeder Call to Order – Chair Kinsley called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Roll Call was taken; quorum was met. Meeting Agenda – Set Public Comments- Linda Zillmer Minutes from the previous meeting dated: June 10, 2026 Motion to approve by: Mr. Neumann Second by: Mr. Helwig Motion carried without negative vote. Maintenance- A written report was provided. Sawyer County Airport Report- Mr. Leslie provided the June Airport report. Traffic peaks July 22-27; the Airport is busy. Civil Air Patrol Pancake Breakfast is Sunday, July 12 from 7-1pm. Young Eagles will provide free flights for kids ages 7-17 on August 8. No update from FAA on the Airport Master Plan or Airport Layout Plan. Highway Department- A written report was provided on June Highway work: CTH F and DD work started July 6. STH GG to Price County Line work started. STH 27 Carol to Boylan Rd work starts July 20. Finishing up 2 last appraisals for the CTH E project. CTH D Chippewa River Bridge work complete July 30. A Public Information Meeting with the state will be held in Village of Radisson on July 13 from 6-8 pm to discuss STH 70 between Radisson and Ojibwa. Highway is still hiring 1 more summer laborer and 1 FT diver/operator position for Hayward shop. The cost of salt increased dramatically; the projected cost is $1M to fill the sheds for the upcoming budget. Highway Facilities discussion— Long term plans needed to replace old Highway building with leaking roof and boarded up windows. Mr. Markgren will work with Mr. Pinnow to come up with 3 or 4 proposals for the committee. Mr. Van Etten requested a quote to convert to brine in conjunction with building a new facility. Ad-hoc Committee Update— Mr. Kinsley reported on the June 15 meeting discussions on the WOJB tower, ATVs in New Post and Trail Passes. Mr. Markgren stated that the cost to revamp the tower has come down significantly since the first estimate. The next meeting will be set when the pending inspection of the tower has been completed. Ms. Schroeder had questions about ATV routes and operation times. Board Appointed Committee Updates-- None Correspondence, reports from conferences and meetings – None Future Agenda Items – Upcoming hangar lease renewal, Highway salt and facility discussion, ATV Routes Page 57 of 73 Meeting adjourned at: 5:32 pm Next Meeting: August 12, 2026 Time: 5:00 pm Location: Board Room Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, Sawyer County Clerk Page 58 of 73 Minutes of the July 2, 2026 meeting of the Sawyer County Public Safety Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room; Sawyer County Voting Committee Members Present: Others Present: Ron Buckholtz Mike Markgren John Froemel Marc Helwig- Absent Liz Klein Chaz Ann Olson Jeff Hoehne Bryan Deyo Kristi Kare Marshal Savitski Sheriff Mrotek Miranda Strenke Jim Evans Marge Kelsey Nicole Ripczinski Greg Rpiczinski Leslie Strapon Call to Order –Chair Buckholtz called the meeting to order at 9:00 am. Roll Call taken. Quorum was met. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Meeting Agenda- Set Public Comment – None Minutes from the previous meeting dated: June 4, 2026 Motion to approve made by: Mr. Evans Second by: Mr. Hoehne Motion carried without negative vote. Clerk of Courts/Register in Probate Reports - Ms. Kelsey presented a written report and updated the committee on short-staffing challenges and thanked Kristi Kare for stepping in to clerk civil cases. A new Criminal Clerk is starting July 27th. Sheriff’s Department Report – Sheriff Mrotek stated that the receptionist/Sheriff’s secretary position has been filled, and that the department is supporting LCO with a recent homicide investigation that occurred. Patrol Report – Lt. Ripczinski reviewed the written patrol report: there were 714 calls in June, 28 traffic citations issued and 15 crashes- 2 with injury, zero deaths. Jail Report –Chief Deyo reviewed a written jail report for June with arrest data by race and gender. There was an average of 59 inmates incarcerated with a 68% unemployment rate at the time of booking, 1 on electronic monitoring. Dispatch and Emergency Management – Dispatch- Dir. Ripczinski reviewed a written report with updates on staffing, grant-funded upgrades to dispatch and jail consoles, upcoming events and the numbers and types of calls received in June. Emergency Management- Dir. Ripczinski reviewed a written report with updates on testing new weather and fire detection programs. The department will assist with Cops n’ Bobbers on August 8 at DJ’s Dockside Resort and cohost National Night Out on August 4 from 5-7 pm behind Hayward Intermediate School. Page 59 of 73 Radio Towers Update- Mr. Markgren updated the committee on productive meetings with the Tribal Governing Board on the WOJB tower. The Meadowbrook tower cost came down since the June Public Safety meeting; the increase now is just the cost of connecting electricity to the site (approx. $40,000). Mr. Buckholtz stated that the Meadowbrook project was approved at the Zoning Committee. Code Enforcement- Ms. Olson reviewed her written report on dog licenses and a dog bite quarantine in the pound. There were three TRH complaints investigated in June, and one potential human health hazard (with two ongoing investigations from May). Child Support Department Report – Written reports for May and June were provided. Emergency Services— Mr. Froemel introduced his assistant Miranda Strenke. A written report was provided showing ambulance call volume, location and run times. Mr. Froemel shared that LCO will offer an advanced EMT course this fall and stated that the Sawyer crew has been working well with Birchwood. Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Update –Mr. Markgren reported the June CJCC meeting highlights: Aura Lea Carrell of Northwood Tech works with inmates ten hours a week on diplomas and access to tech school training for a grant-funded program that has reduced recidivism by 47% statewide. Judges Isham and Smith have seen good results from the Youth Justice efforts, and Dave Dixon at Timber Bay provides weekly youth programs that are well- attended. Board Appointed Committee Updates—None Correspondence, Reports from Conferences and Meetings— None Future Agenda Items – Radio Tower Update Meeting Date/Time – The next meeting of the Public Safety Committee will be August 6, 2026 at 9:00 am in the Board Room. Meeting adjourned at 9:28 am Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, Sawyer County Clerk Page 60 of 73 Minutes of the July 8, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Land, Water & Forest Resources Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room, Sawyer County Voting Committee Members (X) Present: Others Present: Steve Kariainen Mike Markgren Kimberly Peterson- Virtual Randy Neumann Liz Klein Brody Fischer Kay Wilson Jay Kozlowski Jayne Schroeder Marshal Savitski Greg Peterson Steve Longtine Chris Gregory Allison Jonjak- Virtual Call to Order – Chair Kariainen called the meeting to order at 8:30 am. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Roll Call was taken; a quorum was met; the agenda was set. Public Comments – Linda Zillmer Minutes from the previous meeting dated: June 10, 2026 Motion to approve made by: Mr. Neumann Second by: Mr. Savitski Motion carried without negative vote. Events— No applications received Register of Deeds Update-- A written report for June was provided. Land Records and County Surveyor Department Report – Land Records—A written RPL report was provided. Surveyor—A written surveyor report was provided. Forestry – County Forestry Report— Mr. Peterson reported that nine sales were active in June. There is approximately $4.96M in sold-uncut timber on file at the time of the report. The County is currently in oak wilt restriction through July 15. Bids were received and reviewed for three ATV/UTV trail rehab projects; the cost and shortage of gravel is affecting project costs. DNR Report—Mr. Fischer reported on June DNR activity and reminded people not to prune or cause injury to any oak trees until after July 15 to prevent oak wilt- contact Mr. Fischer to report oak wilt symptoms. Honeysuckle and garlic mustard are invasive species increasing in area forests; Mr. Fischer noted that native black locust has become prevalent in some areas of disturbed soil. USFS Report—No report Page 61 of 73 Recreational Trails Report—Ms. Schroeder reported that grading is complete on Tuscobia and Moose Lake trails; Seeley Hills trails are next. Zoning/Conservation Department – Mr. Kozlowski reported that conservation staff have assisted individuals with site visits for native plant restoration projects and are busy with permits, project designs and meetings with lake associations. Water samples were taken from Loretta and Barber Lakes for a grant project. Conservation provided public education on aquatic invasive species, is planning a LWFRC guided tour, and is working with DNR on livestock siting and CAFO operations. Board Appointed Committee Updates – None Correspondence, Reports from Conferences and Meetings – None Future Agenda Items – None Adjournment – 8:46 am Next Meeting: August 12, 2026 Time: 8:30am Location: Board Room Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 62 of 73 Minutes of the July 6, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Economic Development and UW-Extension Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room; Sawyer County Voting Committee Members Present: Others Present: John Righeimer Mike Markgren Lori Baltrusis Stacey Hessel Laura Bruce Jim Miller - Absent Mindy Simons Steve Longtine Brian Priester Randy Neumann Ann Larson Call to Order – Mr. Righeimer called the meeting to order at 8:30 am. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Roll Call was taken. Quorum was met. Meeting Agenda -- Set Public Comments – Linda Zillmer Minutes from the previous meeting dated: June 8, 2026 Motion to approve made by: Mr. Neumann Second by: Ms. Hessel Motion carried without negative vote. Resolution 2026- Weiss and Winter Library Support – Mr. Markgren explained the resolution presented. Motion to approve as written for recommendation to the Finance Committee and County Board by: Ms. Hessel Second by: Mr. Longtine Motion carried without negative vote. Library – Ms. Larson reported for the Sherman & Ruth Weiss Library. She spoke regarding the current library programs and activities as well as the two grants received; three new study pods are being installed today. Ms. Baltrusis stated Ms. Knuckey was absent due to 4-H Camp. A written report was submitted. Hayward Lakes Visitors & Convention Bureau Report— Ms. Simons spoke regarding the tourism economic impact, showing a record-breaking year of $155 million in economic impact and estimated Wisconsin ranks 21st or 22nd in tourism out of all the states. NWRPC Report— no report. SC Economic Development Corporation Report— Mr. Priester reported on training and meetings with local business owners; he is rebuilding the EDC website which will launch in the near future. He discussed the selection process for the Federal Census Tract Opportunity Zone which has a July 31st application deadline; the City of Hayward is the entity who would submit the application. Trail Reports-- Motorized— Ms. Hessel stated the trails are amazing and fun. Non-Motorized trails—No report. Board Appointed Committee Updates – No reports Page 63 of 73 Correspondence, Reports from Conferences— None Future Agenda Items – None Adjournment – 9:04 am Meeting Date/Time – The next meeting of the Economic Development and UW-Extension Committee will be Monday, August 10, 2026 at 8:30 am in the Board Room. Minutes recorded by Laura Bruce, Elected Official Deputy Clerk Page 64 of 73 Resolution #____-2026 A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE WEISS COMMUNITY LIBRARY AND THE WINTER PUBLIC LIBRARY AND ESTABLISHING THE SAWYER COUNTY LIBRARY ALLOCATION FORMULA WHEREAS, the Weiss Community Library in Hayward and the Winter Public Library provide essential educational, informational, cultural, and technological resources that serve residents throughout Sawyer County; and WHEREAS, public libraries play a vital role in promoting literacy, supporting lifelong learning, and enhancing the quality of life for Sawyer County citizens, businesses, and students; and WHEREAS, the services provided by these libraries directly support the County’s goals of community development, workforce readiness, and economic vitality by ensuring equitable access to knowledge and technology; and WHEREAS, Sawyer County has historically supported the Weiss Community Library and the Winter Public Library through annual County allocations that far exceed the Wisconsin Act 150 library funding formula; and WHEREAS, it is the intent of Sawyer County to continue recognizing and supporting the outstanding work of both libraries in serving County residents and promoting community well- being; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors, meeting in regular session, hereby expresses its full support and appreciation for the Weiss Community Library and the Winter Public Library, and acknowledges the valuable role both play in fostering education, community connection, and economic development across Sawyer County; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Sawyer County’s annual library allocation shall be the greater of: • 150% of the Wisconsin Act 150 circulation formula amount, or • 102.5% of the previous year’s County allocation, to ensure consistent and sustainable funding for both libraries; and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that copies of this resolution be forwarded to the Weiss Community Library Board and the Winter Public Library Board to demonstrate Sawyer County’s continued commitment to strong and accessible public library services. Page 65 of 73 This Resolution is recommended for adoption by the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors at its meeting on July 16, 2026, by this Sawyer County Economic Development & UW-Extension Committee this 6th Day of July, 2026. ________________________________ ___________________________________ John Righeimer, Chair Randy Neumann, Member ________________________________ ___________________________________ Stacey Hessel, Vice Chair Steve Longtine, Member ________________________________ Jim Miller, Member And this Resolution is recommended for adoption by the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors at its meeting on July 16, 2026, by this Sawyer County Finance Committee this 9th Day of July, 2026. ________________________________ ___________________________________ John Righeimer, Chair Marc Helwig, Member ________________________________ ___________________________________ Stacey Hessel, Vice Chair Jeff Hoehne, Member ________________________________ Steve Kariainen, Member __________________________________________________________________________________ This Resolution is hereby adopted by the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors this 16th day of July, 2026. _______________________________________ _____________________________________ Ron Kinsley, Chair, Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 66 of 73 Minutes of the July 9, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Finance Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room; Sawyer County Voting Committee Members (X) Present: Others Present: John Righeimer Mike Markgren Stacey Hessel Liz Klein Marc Helwig Ron Buckholtz Steve Kariainen Rhandi Ehn Jeff Hoehne Brian Lehner Call to Order –Chair Righeimer called the meeting to order at 8:30 am. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Roll Call taken and quorum was met. Meeting Agenda – Set Public Comments – None Minutes from the previous meeting dated: June 11, 2026 Motion to approve made by: Mr. Helwig Second by: Mr. Hoehne Motion carried without negative vote. Treasurer’s Report – Mr. Lehner provided a written report on tax collections and delinquent parcels and reported on topics covered at the Wisconsin County Treasurers Association conference he attended. Finance Department Report - Ms. Ehn reviewed monthly sales tax revenues, Budget Performance Reports for June 2026, and June CIP purchases. 2027 Budget Update— Department heads have turned in staff and CIP requests and Finance is meeting with departments to review budget numbers as they come in. Department Financial Updates-- Ambulance Department---Ms. Ehn reviewed June 2026 financials for the Ambulance Department. Medical Examiner Department—Ms. Ehn reviewed June 2026 Financials for the Medical Examiner Department. Emergency Management Department— Ms. Ehn reviewed June 2026 Financials for the Emergency Management Department. General Government-- Ms. Ehn reviewed June 2026 Financials for General Government. Investments Review and Update— The May investment report was provided: interest rates are holding above 3%; County CD investments are still exceeding 2025 returns. Page 67 of 73 Resolution 2026-____Weiss and Winter Library Support—Mr. Markgren presented the need for a resolution setting funding for the libraries. The resolution sets funding for Weiss and Winter libraries at the greater of 150% of the Wisconsin Act 150 circulation support formula amount or 102.5% of the previous year’s County allocation, and is supported by members and boards of both libraries and was approved by the Economic Development and UW Extension committee. Motion to approve Resolution 2026-___Weiss and Winter Library Support for consideration by the County Board by: Ms. Hessel Second by: Mr. Helwig Motion carried without negative vote. Board Appointed Committee Updates— None Correspondence, Reports from Conferences and Meetings – None Future Agenda Items – Resolutions to set funding for SRC and Namekagon Transit Adjournment – 8:57 am Next Meeting- August 13, 2026 Time: 8:30 am Location: Board Room Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 68 of 73 Minutes of the July 2, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Health and Human Services Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room, Sawyer County Voting Committee Members Present: Others Present: Kay Wilson Liz Klein Chuck Van Etten Julia Lyons John Minto- Absent Mike Markgren Jim Miller- Absent Hailey Sands- Virtual Jeff Hoehne Caitlan Myren Lorraine Gouge- Absent Julie McCallum Vacant Shawna White- Virtual Pam Mueller- Excused Dr. Sabrina Dunlap- Absent Call to Order – Chair Wilson called the meeting to order at 5:05 pm. NO QUORUM Meeting adjourned at 5:06 pm Meeting Date/Time – The next meeting of the Health and Human Services Board will be Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 5:00pm in the Board Room. Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 69 of 73 Minutes of the Meeting of the July 9, 2026 Sawyer County Administration Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room; Sawyer County Voting Committee Members (X) Present: Others Present: Chair: Ron Kinsley Mike Markgren Vice Chair: Ron Buckholtz Liz Klein Marshal Savitski Nicole Clapero John Righeimer Rose Lillyroot Stacey Hessel Mike Coleson Call to Order –Chair Kinsley called the meeting to order at 10:00 am. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Roll Call taken; quorum was met. Meeting Agenda – Set Public Comments – Linda Zillmer Minutes from the previous meeting dated: June 11, 2026 Motion to approve by: Mr. Buckoltz Second by: Mr. Savitski Motion carried without negative vote. County Clerk Report- Ms. Klein provided a written department report on June activity: the towns are doing a great job with entering their election data in WisVote. The Department is making progress toward Strategic Plan goals and the office remodeling has improved customer service for marriages. Public record requests are being handled smoothly without NextRequest. Veterans Service Office Report - Ms. Clapero presented a written report on June department activity: 532 phone calls, 883 letters/emails/faxes sent and 175 office visits. 107 disability claims have been filed to date with $499,892.13 awarded in Veterans’ favor. The department is co-hosting counseling sessions at La Crosse Vet Center and Coffee & Conversation; the social media report was provided. Veteran’s Tribute Update- Mr. Markgren reported that he received incomplete schematics from the architect that need to include electrical conduit and address a ground water issue prior to placing two designs out for bids. Ms. Hessel and Mr. Markgren will work together as leads on the project to bring it to completion. Information Technology Department Report - Mr. Coleson provided a written IT report on ongoing IT projects. A new phone system to replace the existing system which has aged past supported service will be proposed as a 2027 budget CIP item request. Human Resources Report - A written report was provided on staffing and recruiting for open positions within the county. County Administrator’s Report— Mr. Markgren will meet with Brian Prieseter of the Economic Development Corporation regarding a July 31 application for Opportunity Zone tax status available to rural urban low income communities; a benefit of the designation is deferred capital gains tax on new businesses. Mr. Markgren will speak at the WTA District meeting on July 27. He Page 70 of 73 reported that Ms. Barry of Justice Point submitted a $740,000 RCORPS grant that would replace lost funding for the Deflection program. Mr. Markgren announced that he will be retiring on December 31, 2026. County Administrator annual review— After discussion on establishing an annual process, a motion to have all County Board members submit a County Administrator evaluation form to Chairman Kinsley by Thursday, July 16 was made by: Ms. Hessel Second by: Mr. Helwig Motion carried without negative vote. Board Appointed Committee Updates – None Correspondence, reports from conferences and meetings– None Future Agenda Items- Review District 15 Supervisor position Adjournment – 10:42 am Next Meeting: August 13, 2026 Time: 10:00 am Location: Board Room Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 71 of 73 Minutes of the July 8, 2026 Meeting of the Sawyer County Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors Board Room; Sawyer County Voting Committee Members Present: Others Present: 1. Julia Lyons Liz Klein 2. Judge Elaine Smith- Virtual Becky Barry- Virtual 3. Dave Dixon- Excused Leslie Strapon 4. Mike Markgren Kristi Kare 5. Mike Woller- Excused Sari Torstenson 6. Lorraine Gouge- Absent Jess Bjork- Virtual 7. Doug Mrotek- Excused 8. Bruce Poquette- Absent 9. Katie Belanger- Virtual 10. Judge John Yackel- Absent 11. Marc Helwig 12. Judge Monica Isham 13. Marshal Savitski 14. Kathy McCoy 15. Bill Trepanier- Absent 16. Amanda Lokker- Virtual Call to Order—Chair Lyons called the meeting to order at 12:03 pm. Certification of Compliance with the open meeting law was met. Roll Call was taken. Quorum was met. Meeting Agenda – Truancy & Diversion report tabled to August Public Comments – None Minutes from the previous meeting dated: June 10, 2026 Motion to approve made by: Mr. Savitski Second by: Mr. Helwig Motion carried without negative vote. CJCC Executive Committee Report— The Executive Committee did not meet in June; a meeting is set for the end of July. A draft of CJCC Updated Bylaws will be forthcoming. Jail Report-- A written jail report for June was provided, with arrest data by race and gender. There was an average of 59 inmates incarcerated with a 68% unemployment rate at the time of booking, 1 on electronic monitoring. Judge Isham stated that 11 new arrests occurred over the past week, with discussion about normal trends for summer months. Justice Point— Ms. Barry updated the committee on Justice Point. There were 113 active Pretrial clients, 10 Diversion clients, and 3 active Treatment Court clients in June. Deflection—A $740,000 federal Rural Communities Opioid Response Program grant was submitted; if awarded, the grant will cover funding for the Deflection program and requires no County matching funds. Five staff members are attending AllRISE in Nashville in July, funded by Opioid Settlement Funds. Page 72 of 73 HHS— Youth Justice-- The Truancy & Diversion Lookback report presentation was tabled to August. Behavioral Health, Community Support & Mobile Crisis, and Public Health reports were provided. The committee discussed a recent youth shooting fatality and positive alternative activities for youth to keep them safe and active. A grant-funded YMCA would benefit the community and will be investigated. Community Services Updates- None Outside Committee Reports – None Correspondence, reports from conferences and meetings – None Future Agenda Items – Set designees for judges, Truancy & Diversion Report, Executive Committee 2027 Budget Input Meeting adjourned at 12:54 pm Next Meeting: August 12, 2026 Time: 12:00 pm Location: Board Room Minutes recorded by Liz Klein, County Clerk Page 73 of 73