Special Joint Meeting of Finance Committee & Village Board — Agenda packet
Village of Sister Bay · Door County · Special Joint Meeting of Finance Committee & Village Board · meeting of Jul 13, 2026 · Agenda packets
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Posted On: 07/08/2026
SPECIAL JOINT MEETING OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE & VILLAGE BOARD
MONDAY, JULY 13, 2026 – 10:00 AM
Sister Bay Liberty Grove Fire Station – 2258 Mill Road
To access the meeting electronically, click:
https://zoom.us/j/4439901723?pwd=yAVpi40M1OIqgNufcVUE8XWCUSkKaH.1&omn=97063638580
Meeting ID: 443 990 1723 Passcode: 304078
To connect by phone: 1-301-715-8592 - Meeting ID 443 990 1723#
Deviations from the agenda order shown may occur
For additional meeting information visit: www.sisterbaywi.gov, click ‘Agendas and Minutes’
AGENDA
1. Call to Order (Zoom Participants Mute Devices)
2. Roll Call
3. Approve Agenda
4. Approve Meeting Minutes: n/a
5. Comments, Correspondence, and Concerns from the Public (Public comment limited to 3 non-transferable minutes per person)
6. Presentations
a) Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) 101 Presentation; Baird
b) Tax Incremental District (TID) Overview Presentation; Baird
7. Discussion/Action Items
a) Tax Incremental District (TID) Overview
b) Strategic Planning Proposals
8. Adjourn
Public Notice
Questions regarding the nature of the Agenda items or more detail on the items listed can be directed to Benjamin Andrews, Village Administrator,
at administrator@sisterbaywi.gov. It is possible that members of and possibly a quorum of members of other governmental bodies may attend the
meeting to gather information; no action will be taken by any governmental body other than the body specifically referred to above. Upon reasonable
notice, a good faith effort will be made to accommodate the needs of disabled individuals through sign language interpreters or other auxiliary aid or
accommodation at no cost to the individual. Due to the difficulty in finding interpreters, requests should be made as far in advance as possible,
preferably a minimum of 48 hours. For additional information or to request this service, contact the Sister Bay Village Administration Office at 854-
4118; (FAX) 854-9637; or by writing to the Village Administration Building, 2383 Maple Drive, PO Box 769, Sister Bay, WI 54234. Copies of reports and
other supporting documentation are available for review online.
The Village of Sister Bay is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
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Page 1
STAFF REPORT
Date: July 13, 2026
To: Finance Committee; Village Board
Re: Joint Committee Meetings - Wisconsin Law
Author(s): Benjamin Andrews, Village Administrator
Action(s) Requested: ☐ Ordinance ☐ Resolution ☐ Motion ☒ Receive/File
When two or more local government entities in Wisconsin gather to deliberate or act upon
common interests, they must adhere to statutory protocols. This staff report outlines the
procedural framework required to conduct a lawful joint meeting. All joint sessions must
strictly satisfy the Wisconsin Open Meetings Law.
Each participating board must independently achieve its respective quorum. For example, if the
Finance Committee has a quorum but the Village Board does not, the Finance Committee may
proceed with its meeting, but the Village Board cannot legally participate or deliberate. The
minutes must explicitly document attendance by recording individual calls for each independent
body.
Members cannot cast votes in a single collective pool. A majority vote of a combined room holds
no legal weight. If an item requires joint approval, a motion must be introduced and voted upon
separately by each governing body. One body must pass the motion, followed by the second body
moving and passing an identical motion.
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Page 1
STAFF REPORT
Date: July 13, 2026
To: Finance Committee; Village Board
Re: Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) 101 Presentation
Author(s): Benjamin Andrews, Village Administrator
Action(s) Requested: ☐ Ordinance ☐ Resolution ☐ Motion ☐ Receive/File
The following presentation is attached:
• Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) 101 Presentation
3
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TIF 101
Village of Sister Bay
July 13, 2026
Justin Fischer
Managing Director
414-765-3635
jfischer@rwbaird.com
Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated is providing this information to you for discussion purposes only. The information does no t contemplate or relate to a future issuance of municipal securities. Baird is not recommending
that you take any action, and this information is not intended to be regarded as “advice” within the meaning of Section 15B o f the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or the rules thereunder.
Jennifer Engel
Vice President
414-298-2441
jengel@rwbaird.com
Stephanie Reif
Vice President
414-298-1963
sreif@rwbaird.com
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Types of TIDs
Villages, Cities, Certain
Towns*
Sec 66.1105, Wi. Stats.
• Blight
• Rehabilitation/
conservation
• Industrial
• Mixed use
• Environmental
remediation (on or
after 11/29/2017)
• NEW Workforce
Housing TID
(effective 10/1/2026)
Towns
Sec. 60.85, Wi. Stats.
• Tourism, agriculture,
and forestry
• Cooperative
Environmental
Remediation
Sec. 66.1106, Wi. Stats.
• Adopted before
11/29/2017
*Towns with a minimum population of 3,500, minimum valuation of $500 million and wastewater treatment plant access to the TID are eligible. Sec. 60.23, Wis. Stats., except for workforce housing TID which requires towns to operate a
sewerage system or in which a sanitary district is located.
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TID Overview
◼ Wisconsin currently has 1,420
active TIDs*:
– 17 created before October 1,
1995 (not required to declare a
type)
– 339 Blight Elimination
– 266 Rehabilitation/Conservation
– 206 Industrial
– 564 Mixed Use
– 2 Towns
– 11 Environmental Remediation
– 15 Legislative Exceptions
◼ There were 82 TID terminations
effective in 2025
◼ In 2025, 56 new TIDs were created:
– 9 Blight Elimination
– 17 Rehabilitation
– 4 Industrial
– 26 Mixed Use
Source: Wisconsin Department of Revenue
*As of April 14, 2026
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TID vs. TIF
TIF (Tax Incremental Financing):
◼ An economic development program which helps promote local tax base
expansion by using property tax revenues to fund site improvements to attract
new industrial or mixed-use development, rehabilitate/conserve property,
eliminate blight or remediate the environment.
TID (Tax Incremental District):
◼ The actual physical area (whole parcels) designated for improvements using tax
incremental financing.
VS.
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What is a TID?
▪ Contiguous geographic
area within a municipality
intended to foster
economic development
or redevelopment
▪ Administered by the
municipality while
benefiting all overlapping
taxing entities, a TID may
also include a lake
district, sanitary district
or metro sewer district
Tech College District
County
School District
Municipality
TID
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Why Create a TID?
• Expand tax base/development becomes cost-effective and proceeds
Attract new private development that would otherwise not
occur “but for” the creation of the TID
• Municipality
• School district
• Technical college district
• County
Share costs among:
Tax increment revenues based on full tax rate to offset TID
project costs
Once TID is closed, all overlapping taxing entities benefit
from expanded tax base
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Important TID Terms
Base Value
• The total full market value of all property within the TID when the TID was created
Current
Value
• The total full market value of all property within the TID for the current year
Increment
Value
• The difference between the base value and the current value
Tax
Increment
• Taxes forgone by overlapping taxing jurisdictions during the life of the TID on the
new value created in the TID. The municipality administering the TID collects the
tax increment and applies it to TID project costs.
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How a TIF is Funded
When a TID is
created, the
municipality and
other taxing
entities agree to
support their
normal
operations from
the existing tax
base within the
district
Assuming the
TID was not
created, there
would be no
additional
growth to the
existing tax base
Property taxes
for the school,
county, tech
college, and
municipality are
based on the
taxable value of
the TID at the
time it is created
The tax rates are
applied to the
TID value
increment, which
results in
additional
revenues
collected for the
district’s fund
Eligible TID costs
are paid from
these revenues
before the
additional tax
base is shared
State of
Wisconsin does
not collect or
pay increments
to municipal
governments
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Tax Rate Calculation
Page 8
2025 Gross Tax Rate (per $1,000
Equalized Value) = $9.42
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Increment Value and Tax Increment
Current Sister Bay and Combined Mill Rates
• 2025 (2026 purposes) Village Mill Rate:
• $4.36 / $1,000 of equalized value
• Combined mill rate of all overlapping taxing entities:
• $9.42 / $1,000 of equalized value
• (School - $2.31 / County - $2.22 / NWTC - $0.53)
Assume $1,000,000 of Increment
• Village mill rate generates $4,360 of tax revenue annually
• Combined mill rate generates $9,420 of tax revenue annually
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Example TID Lifecycle*
*The hypothetical example is for illustrative purposes only.
Calendar Years
$0
$5,000
$10,000
$15,000
$20,000
$25,000
Equalized Valuation
($ in thousands)
Rapid Growth Period –
As the value increases,
the municipality
experiences
growth in tax increment
which are used to service
TIF related debt.
Mature Growth
Period-
Valuation growth
begins to level off.
TID District Closure –
Once project costs are
recovered, the TID
closes. The tax base
and increment is
applied to the
underlying taxing
entities.
Base Valuation
Increment Over Base
New Tax
Base
Initial Construction
Period–
Develop infrastructure
and attract buyers.
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Statement of Changes in TID Value – TID 1
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Statement of Changes in TID Value – TID 2
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Equalized Value Test
12% Statutory Test Limit – Village of Sister Bay
Total Equalized Valuation (TID-In) $919,131,200 100.00%
12% of Total Equalized Valuation (TID-In) $110,295,744 12.00%
Total TID Increment $135,907,300 14.79%
Remaining Capacity $0 0%
• Equalized value of the proposed TID plus the value increment of all existing TIDs may
not exceed 12% of the municipality’s total equalized valuation (TID-In) – currently the
Village exceeds the 12%.
• DOR releases equalized values for the current year annually on August 15
• The equalized value test is based on figures available at the time the TID creation
resolution is adopted by the governing body
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Financing Options
Up-Front
• Projects the incremental
property values of the
project and extend an up-
front payment to assist in
development costs
• Lump sum
• Village assumes risk
Pay-As-You-Go Note
• Relies on the developer to
pay for the up-front project
costs with the promise of
being reimbursed
• Series of installments
• Developer assumes risk
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Financial Feasibility – Upfront Incentive
The hypothetical example is for illustrative purposesonly.
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Financial Feasibility – PayGo
The hypothetical example is for illustrative purposesonly.
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Important Disclosures
Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated is providing this information to you for discussion purposes. The materials do not contemplate or
relate to a future issuance of municipal securities. Baird is not recommending that you take any action, and this information is not intended
to be regarded as “advice” within the meaning of Section 15B of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or the rules thereunder.
Page 16
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Page 1
STAFF REPORT
Date: July 13, 2026
To: Finance Committee; Village Board
Re: Tax Incremental District (TID) Overview Presentation;
Author(s): Benjamin Andrews, Village Administrator
Action(s) Requested: ☐ Ordinance ☐ Resolution ☐ Motion ☒ Receive/File
The following presentation is attached:
• Tax Incremental District (TID) Overview Presentation
22
Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis Report
July 13, 2026
Jennifer Engel
Vice President
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone 920.433.7373
jengel@rwbaird.com
Stephanie Reif
Vice President
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone 920.433.7373
sreif@rwbaird.com
Justin Fischer
Managing Director
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone 414.765.3827
jfischer@rwbaird.com
23
Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
Table of Contents
Executive Summary ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 1
Village of Sister Bay – Tax Incremental Districts .......................................................................................................................................................... 3
TID #1 ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
TID #1 Summary ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
TID #1 History of Value Increment .................................................................................................................................................................................. 6
TID #1 Project Cost Detail .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
TID #1 Cash Flow Proforma Analysis .............................................................................................................................................................................. 8
TID #2 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
TID #2 Summary ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 11
TID #2 History of Value Increment ................................................................................................................................................................................ 12
TID #2 Project Cost Detail ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
TID #2 Cash Flow Proforma Analysis ............................................................................................................................................................................ 14
Implemented Project Plans .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 16
Concluding Observations ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 25
Important Disclosures ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 28
24
Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
1
Executive Summary
Sister Bay actively uses Tax Incremental Districts (“TIDs”) to
foster rehabilitation and new development.
Existing TIDs
• TID # 1: Central Business District
• TID # 2: South Highway 57 Business Corridor
TID #1 was created in August of 2008 and TID #2 was created
in May 2018. Incremental value growth, that is, the increase in
equalized property values, within the existing TIDs is
approximately $136 million. TID # 1 saw a 16% decrease in
increment value from 2024 to 2025 resulting in an increment
dollar decrease of $31,389,200. Despite the decline in value in
2025, TID #1 has $126,071,500 in increment value growth since
it was created in 2008, which is approximately $44 million
above the 2021 project plan projected increment. TID #2 saw
an 11% decrease in increment value growth from 2024 to 2025
resulting in an increment dollar decrease of $2,317,900.
Although the decline in value from 2024, TID #2 has a total of
$9,835,800 in increment value growth since its creation in 2018.
Challenges
Tax Increment Districts (TIDs) in Wisconsin present notable
challenges for communities like the Village of Sister Bay,
particularly due to the statutory 12% value limitation, which
caps the total equalized value of all TIDs relative to the
municipality’s total value. Because Sister Bay’s current value is
14.19%, which exceeds the 12% statutory threshold, it is
effectively restricted from creating new TIDs or expanding
existing ones, limiting its ability to finance infrastructure and
incentivize development in key areas. This constraint is
especially impactful in a small community with limited available
land and high development costs, where TIF is often essential
to make projects viable. Additionally, ongoing changes to state
legislation governing TIDs, such as adjustments to eligible costs,
timelines, and reporting requirements, create uncertainty and
administrative complexity, making long-term planning more
difficult and potentially delaying or deterring needed economic
development initiatives.
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Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
2
Brief Explanation of TID
Tax Incremental Financing (“TIF”) is an economic development
tool available to Wisconsin communities. The community
administers the Tax Incremental District (“TID”), however, all
taxing entities overlapping the TID benefit from the
improvements the TID fosters. Those benefits include the
expansion of tax base, expansion/stabilization of employment
base and orderly community development/redevelopment.
A TID is comprised of geographically contiguous parcels in
need of development or redevelopment. The property value of
a TID is frozen at the time of creation – this frozen value is
referred to as the “base value”. Overlapping taxing entities
(Village, School District, County and Technical College District)
continue to collect tax revenue on the base value over the life
of the TID. Tax revenue on the incremental value (the “tax
increment”) accrues to the TID rather than the overlapping
taxing jurisdictions. TID revenues are comprised primarily of
taxes collected on the incremental value but also include land
sale revenue, lease revenue, certain state aid payments and
investment earnings on accumulated fund balance. These
revenues fund projects are intended to foster economic
development. Once sufficient TID revenue has been received
to pay TID project costs, the TID closes, and the newly created
tax increment becomes a component of the total valuation of
all overlapping taxing jurisdictions.
A component of the TID creation or amendment process is
evaluation of the TID plan by a board comprised of one
member of each of the overlapping taxing entities and an “at-
large” public member. A required key finding by this Joint
Review Board in the creation of a TID is that the new
development would not occur but for the creation of the TID.
Referred to as the “but for test”, if this finding cannot be made,
the development would presumably occur without TID
assistance.
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Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
3
TID # 1 TID # 2
Village of Sister Bay – Tax Incremental Districts
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Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
4
TID #1
Central Business District
Initially created via resolution on 08/21/2008, the original
plan included projects for developer incentives, infrastructure
improvements and administrative costs. The district was
amended via resolution on 10/27/2011 to remove two
parcels, include additional water and sewer costs, and the
schedule was adjusted for an additional two years of time for
implementation. A second amendment, adopted on
06/05/2018, expanded the project plan to include project
costs associated with public utilities and street improvements
that primarily benefit the District. A third amendment was
approved on 10/19/2021, incorporating additional projects
aimed at supporting development and redevelopment
initiatives to enhance the economic vitality of both the
District and the broader community. TID #1 expenditure
period ended in 2023 and is projected to close in 2028 with
final tax collection occurring in 2029.
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Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
5
TID #1 Summary
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Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
6
TID #1 History of Value Increment
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Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
7
TID #1 Project Cost Detail
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Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
8
TID #1 Cash Flow Proforma Analysis
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Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
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TID #1 Cash Flow Proforma Analysis Cont.
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Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
10
TID #2
South Highway 57 Business Corridor
TID #2 was created via resolution by the Village board on 05/24/2018.
The district was created to promote orderly development and
necessary redevelopment of parcels within the south Highway 57
business corridor between Flintridge/Country Lane, Fieldcrest and
Canterbury Lane adjacent to TID #1. The project plan anticipated
approximately $1.782 million in project costs, primarily related to
infrastructure improvements, and projected approximately $9.5
million in new development. The district's expenditure period is
scheduled to end in 2033, with the district projected to close in 2038
and the final tax increment collection occurring in 2039.
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Village of Sister Bay
2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
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TID #2 Summary
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2026 Tax Incremental District Analysis
July 13, 2026
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TID #2 History of Value Increment
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TID #2 Project Cost Detail
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TID #2 Cash Flow Proforma Analysis
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Sister Bay’s Tax Incremental Districts
Tax Incremental Districts are one of the most powerful economic development tools available to municipalities. Sister Bay has a history
of actively using this tool to foster not only tax base growth but also blight elimination, orderly development of newly created
commercial and industrial parcels and expanded employment opportunities. Of Sister Bay’s two active TIDs, both are mixed-use.
Mixed-use TIDs in Wisconsin present unique challenges, particularly due to their integration of residential, commercial, and sometimes
recreational uses within a single district. Unlike TIDs focused solely on new industrial or commercial growth, mixed-use districts often
involve the redevelopment or adaptive reuse of underutilized or obsolete properties, which can require substantial upfront investment
in demolition, environmental remediation, and site preparation. As a result, the cost-to-revenue ratio for mixed-use TIDs is typically
higher, as the need to support both infrastructure and diverse development types can delay value growth and increase reliance on TIF
assistance to achieve project feasibility. However, it is important to recognize that the benefits accrued to Sister Bay (and all
overlapping taxing entities of the two TIDs) for the redevelopment in TID #1, and TID # 2, include improved infrastructure that supports
economic activity, reduced reliance on general property tax increases for capital projects, and enhanced property values and
community appeal for Sister Bay. Without the use of TID, it is highly unlikely that this revitalization would occur.
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Implemented Project Plans
TID project plans are required to include an economic feasibility analysis. A component of the analysis projects annual TID revenues
compared to annual TID expenditures. A challenge facing all TIDs is the “fixed” nature of the expenditures versus the “variable” nature
of the revenues. For example, TID expenditures are often funded by the issuance of debt. That debt typically has fixed payments over
a long-term period (up to 20 years for General Obligation debt). The revenue stream, comprised predominantly of tax revenue, varies
annually based on changes to property value in the TID and the combined equalized tax rate. As with any projection, the further into
the future the projection spans, the confidence placed on subsequent years’ projections is reduced.
Several factors have impacted TID revenues over the past several years, including (in chronological order):
• Great Recession
o Significant declines in property value resulting from the Great Recession drove down property values nationwide.
• Department of Revenue revised TID valuation methodology
o In 2010 the Wisconsin Department of Revenue revised its methodology for assigning values to properties in a TID. The
new methodology had a greater impact on older TIDs than newer TIDs, primarily because of the impact of annual
compounding.
• 2013 Wisconsin Act 145 (Technical College state aid increase)
o Beginning in 2014, technical college district’s equalized tax rate for payment received in 2015 and thereafter is reduced
$0.875 per $1,000 of property value.
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In response to the legislative changes, the state has regularly revised TID statutes to provide communities the ability to adjust their TIDs
to address events unforeseen at the time of TID creation.
For example:
• Following the state 2/3 school funding initiative, existing TIDs had their lives automatically extended five years.
• The economic downturn led the state to develop legislation authorizing communities to designate certain TIDs “distressed”
thereby extending their lives. Other TIDs were authorized to become donor districts to distressed districts.
Since 2014, there have been several TID Law changes that have gone into effect.
• 2013 Wisconsin Act 183 (Re-determine TID base value) – effective April 4, 2014
o TID’s equalized value must be at least 10% below the current base value of the TID for two consecutive years
o Distressed or severely distressed TIDs qualify
• 2013 Wisconsin Act 193 – effective April 6, 2014
o Expands authority for certain towns to create TIDs
▪ In prior year, EV must be minimum of $500 million and population of at least 3,500
▪ Sewer service is or will be provided before use or operation of any improvements
• 2015 Wisconsin Act 254 – effective March 3, 2016
o Allows Municipality to amend TID’s project plan and request three -year extension to TID’s life if tax increments are
impacted by 2013 Act 145 (referenced earlier) that increased state aid to technical colleges
o Requires DOR to indicate in a fiscal estimate if a bill will increase or decrease the increment collection for TIDs or if the
effect is indeterminate
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• 2015 Wisconsin Act 255 (TIDs created or whose project plan was amended on or after October 1, 2015)
o Removes restriction that vacant property may not comprise more than 25% of TID for creations after effective date
o Revises TID base value calculation to exclude exempt city owned property
• 2015 Wisconsin Act 256 – effective March 3, 2016
o JRB review period changed from 30 to 45 days to approve municipality’s TID resolution
o Changes calculation of levy limit exception – municipality’s equalized value for preceding year excludes value of any TID
increments for year TID terminates
o TID industrial zoning requirements only apply to industrial TIDs
o Changes planning commission notice from class 2 to class 1 for TID amendments
o One-year life and allocation extension for new TIDs when the municipality adopts the project plan between September
30 and May 15
• 2015 Wisconsin Act 257 – effective October 1, 2015, for 60.85 Town TIDs and October 1, 2016, for all TIDs
o Requires standing Joint Review Board (JRB)
▪ Meet annually on July 1 or as soon as annual report is available
▪ Remains in existence entire time TID exists with same taxing jurisdictions
▪ May disband after the termination of all existing TIDs
▪ Applies to all TID types
o Repeals DOR’s review of industry-specific town TIDs
o Requires municipality to electronically submit annual TID Report
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• 2015 Wisconsin Act 257 (continued)
▪ Due to DOR starting July 1, 2016, for Town TIDs and July 1, 2017, for all other TIDs
▪ Annual report must contain specific items:
• Name assigned to the TID
• Developer named in agreement with municipality or receiving financial assistance
• Anticipated TID termination date
• Tax increment to deposited into special fund for the TID
• Contact person
• Analysis of TID special fund
o Requires DOR to develop annual report process
▪ Reports due no later than 45 days after receipt
• Extension may be granted with sufficient evidence
• Summary of extensions to be posted on DOR website
• If past due, municipality will be notified
• $100 fine per day the report is past due. Fees deposited to common school fund.
• 2017 Wisconsin Act 15 – effective January 1, 2018 (for 2017 reporting year)
o Changes the deadline for TID terminations from May 15 to April 15
o TID Annual Report Changes
▪ Sets maximum penalty of $6,000 for reports not filed timely
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• 2017 Wisconsin Act 15 (continued)
• Penalty for late filing remains $100 per TID per day (applied beginning 60 days after report is past due)
▪ DOR reduces shared revenue payments for any unpaid penalty
▪ Removes the extra 30-day extension when an estimated report is filed
o Notification to DOR of adopted amendments
▪ Removed requirement for municipalities to notify DOR of TID amendments during May 1 to May 21 each year
▪ Retains requirement to notify DOR within 60 days after the amendment is adopted
• 2017 Wisconsin Act 58 – effective September 20, 2017
o Creation of electronics and information technology manufacturing (EITM) zone
o Special provisions for TIDs within EITM zone
▪ Not included in 12 percent limit test
▪ 30-year life with expenditures
▪ Mixed-use or industrial TID type only
▪ Allows TID project costs throughout the county and allows police/fire costs (with some limitation)
o Form due date dependent on municipal resolution adoption date and effective date/year
• 2017 Wisconsin Act 70 – effective November 29, 2017
o Environmental Remediation (ER) TID created on or after 11/29/17 must follow Wisconsin Statute Section 66.1105 and any
new ER TID must be created under Wisconsin Statute Section 66.1105
▪ Maximum life 27 years with possible 3-year extension
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• 2017 Wisconsin Act 70 (continued)
▪ ER TIDs are now similar to existing municipal TIDs with the following exceptions:
• Before creation, must obtain certified Wisconsin DNR site investigation report
• At least 50% has significant environmental pollution
• Project plan must specify either:
o All project costs paid within 90% of remaining life or
o Expenditures in first half of TID life only
• Base value is $1
o If amended to add territory, full value will be added to base value of $1.
• ER TID may only share funds with ER TIDs
• One ER TID can be excluded from 12% limit test and cannot change
• 2017 Wisconsin Act 59 Section 1210G. 79.095 (4) (b)
o Changes future exempt computer aid payments
▪ In 2018, each taxing jurisdiction shall receive a payment equal to the payment received in 2017 multiplied by 1.0147.
▪ In 2019, each taxing jurisdiction shall receive a payment equal to the payment it received in the previous year,
multiplied by one plus the inflation factor (As of 9/18/19, that figure is 1.0242).
▪ In 2020, and each year thereafter, each taxing jurisdiction shall receive a payment equal to the payment it
received in the previous year.
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• 2021 Wisconsin Act 61 – effective July 10, 2021, starting with 2022 distributions for:
o Exempt computer aid payments
▪ State will distribute aid to the municipality and other taxing jurisdictions the year after termination and each year
thereafter
o Personal property aid payments
▪ State will distribute aid to the municipality and other taxing jurisdictions the year after termination and each year
thereafter
▪ Reimbursement for TIDs active in the 2017 tax year that terminated since and would have received aid
▪ Terminated TID aid payments will not be included in levy/revenue limit calculations
▪ Updates expenditure restraint program to exclude expenditures of terminated TID personal property aid payments
• 2021 Wisconsin Act 68 – effective July 10, 2021
o For certain expenses, extends the expenditure period from 84 to 180 months after TID’s creation
o Applies to expenses for:
▪ Constructing or expanding fire stations
▪ Purchasing police and fire equipment
▪ General operating expenses related to providing police and fire protection
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• 2023 Wisconsin Act 12 – effective January 1, 2024
o Personal Property is exempt from taxation. A municipality may make a request to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue
to reduce a TID’s base value by the amount of exempt personal property.
o Before January 1, 2024, taxable personal property assessed in the TID was included in the TID's current value and
contributed to a TID's tax increment. Removing exempt personal property from the base value ensures the TID's base
value and current value exclude exempt personal property value
• 2023 Wisconsin Act 12 – Levy Limits
o No change to existing TIDs. For TIDs created after October 1, 2024:
▪ Municipalities may use up to 90% (previously 100%) of new construction within a TID in determining the levy
increase
▪ Joint Review Board (JRB) resolution must state expected termination year
▪ The one-time levy limit adjustment the year after a TID closure is 10% (previously 50%) of the new construction
that occurred between creation and closure.
• The one-time adjustment may be increased to 25% if the TID closes prior to 75% of its anticipated life
• 2025 Wisconsin Act 235 – Residential TIDs – effective October 1, 2026
o Equalized value of taxable property in residential TID(s) not exceed 3% of the municipality’s total equalized valuation
o The life of these TIDS is 20-years
o All public works, improvements, and project costs included in the project plan for a residential tax incremental district shall
be related to residential developments that satisfy all of the following:
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• 2025 Wisconsin Act 235 (continued)
▪ consists entirely of single-family or 2-family residences that are owner-occupied.
▪ lot size of each single-family residence is less than 7,500 square feet.
▪ lot size of each 2-family residence is 12,500 square feet or less.
▪ lot width of each lot for a single-family residence is 70 feet or less.
▪ lot width of each lot for a 2-family residence is 80 feet or less.
▪ No side setback is greater than 10 feet.
▪ No single-story residence is larger than 1,500 square feet.
▪ No 2-story residence is larger than 2,000 square feet.
• 2025 Wisconsin Act 173 – Affordable Housing & “newly platted residential” – effective October 1, 2028
o Expanded affordable housing extension from 1 year to 2 years
o “Newly platted residential” now defined
• 2023 Wisconsin Act 12
o Joint Review Board (JRB) expected termination year – effective after creation date of 9/30/24 – must state expected
termination year in resolution
o Levy limit adjustment changes – if terminates within 75% of JRB’s expected life – receives an additional levy limit adjustment
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Concluding Observations
• Significant development and redevelopment have been fostered using TID.
o The benefit of tax incremental districts extends beyond the growth in tax base.
• Sister Bay’s monitoring and analysis of the Village’s TIDs.
o Elected officials receive detailed TID reports annually, and those reports provide a high level of transparency and
detailed TID monitoring.
o TID #1 currently has a termination year of 2028, TID #2 has a termination year of 2038, both of which are projected to
recover expenditures either before or by the time of their maximum legal life.
o TID #1 is nearing the end of its statutory life, with the maximum legal life ending in 2028 and final tax collections
projected through 2029. As no additional project costs may now be incurred since 2023, the district is now fully in its
wind-down phase.
▪ The district’s involvement in advancing $850,000 to the marina project in 2011 represents a significant
investment; however, the remaining outstanding balance of $192,909 as of December 31, 2025, is relatively
modest and suggests the TID is on track to fully recover its costs prior to closure.
▪ Taxing jurisdictions would potentially receive a refund for the outstanding TID cumulative balance.
▪ There is an opportunity to consider an extension for affordable housing.
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o TID #2 is a relatively newer district established in 2018 and remains in the early-to-mid stage of its lifecycle, with
significant time remaining to incur project costs through 2033 and collect increment through 2039. This timeframe
provides flexibility to support development activity and value growth.
▪ It is also worth noting that a proposed amendment was not finalized in 2024 due to equalized value limitations
relative to the statutory 12% test. While this constrained expansion in the near term, the district retains capacity
to continue advancing its original project plan within existing boundaries.
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Important Disclosures
Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated is providing this information to you for discussion purposes. The materials do not
contemplate or relate to a future issuance of municipal securities. Baird is not recommending that you take any action, and this
information is not intended to be regarded as “advice” within the meaning of Section 15B of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
or the rules thereunder.
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Page 1
STAFF REPORT
Date: July 13, 2026
To: Finance Committee & Village Board
Re: Tax Incremental District (TID) Overview
Author(s): Benjamin Andrews, Village Administrator
Action(s) Requested: ☐ Ordinance ☐ Resolution ☒ Motion ☐ Receive/File
POLICY ISSUE(S)
“Should the Village of Sister Bay accept or file the Tax Incremental District (TID) Overview report
presented by Baird for TIDs No. 1 and 2?”
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
At the July 13th, 2026, Joint Finance and Village Board meeting, Baird provided a presentation of
the Village of Sister Bay’s Tax Incremental District (TID) Overview report. The purpose of the
report is to give the Village a comprehensive written summary of all analyses and mode ling
conducted for TID No. 1 and TID No. 2. The TID Overview report includes:
• Economic feasibility analyses
• Evaluations of current and projected TID status
• Assessments of the impacts of potential development
• Project cost considerations
• Tax rate and inflation assumptions
• Value-increment and performance assessments
• Reviews of potential TID modifications and project plan amendments
Historically, the Village’s governing bodies have taken action to “accept” the report following its
presentation. The Joint Finance Committee and Village Board could t ake actions to either
“accept” the report or “file” the report.
Accepting the report signifies formal endorsement and agreement with its findings and
conclusions. Filing the report acknowledges receipt of the report without formally endorsing it.
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RECOMMENDED ACTION(S)
Village Staff recommend that the Joint Finance Committee and Village Board file the TID
Overview report presented by Baird on July 13, 2026.
If the Village Board is in favor of this policy action, the following motion may be made:
“I move to file the Village of Sister Bay’s Tax Incremental District (TID) Overview report as
presented by Baird on July 13, 2026.”
POLICY ALTERNATIVE(S)
The Joint Finance Committee and Village Board could take the following actions:
• Motion to File Report
• Motion to Accept Report
• Motion to Reject Report
• Motion to Postpone Agenda Item
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STAFF REPORT
Date: July 13, 2026
To: Finance Committee; Village Board
Re: Strategic Planning Services
Author(s): Benjamin Andrews, Village Administrator
Action(s) Requested: ☐ Ordinance ☐ Resolution ☒ Motion ☐ Receive/File
OVERVIEW
“The Village of Sister Bay is interested in obtaining professional services for Strategic Planning
and Elected Official Training. Village staff reached out to multiple firms to assess availability and
interest in providing these services.”
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Several firms were contacted, including sole proprietorships; however, sole proprietors generally
indicated that they are unable to take on additional clients at this time. Two firms expressed
interest and conducted informal meetings with staff:
• Innovative Public Advisors - $23,500.00 - Total Project Cost (Not to Exceed) - (Includes all
travel and expenses for two (2) trips to the Village of Sister Bay. Contract and payment
schedule to follow upon approval.)
• Public Administration Associates - Total Not to Exceed Cost of $14,750 + plus Consultant
Actual Travel Costs
Both proposals aim to deliver a comprehensive strategic plan for the Village of Sister Bay, but
they differ in style, depth, and cost. Innovative Public Advisors (IPA) offers a more structured,
consultant-driven, and data-heavy process, emphasizing discovery, environmental scanning, and
production of a polished final plan with dashboards and visuals, but at a higher cost (~$23,500)
and slightly shorter timeline.
In contrast, Public Administration Associates (PAA) takes a more facilitated, workshop -based
approach, relying heavily on guided sessions with Village leadership and stakeholders to co -
create mission, vision, and outcomes, with a strong philosophical focus on outcome -based
governance and alignment with budgeting, all at a significantly lower cost (~$14,750 + expenses).
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IPA appears more oriented toward delivering a refined, implementation -ready product with
broader analytical inputs, while PAA emphasizes process, engagement, and practitioner
experience, producing a “living” plan grounded in consensus.
In short, IPA leans toward a comprehensive consulting deliverable, whereas PAA leans toward a
collaborative facilitation model that builds internal ownership.
Review the proposals for additional details.
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S)
Based on review of the submitted proposals, staff recommends that the Village enter into an
agreement with Public Administration Associates (PAA) to provide Strategic Planning services,
While both firms offer comprehensive and well-designed processes, Village Staff finds that PAA’s
approach aligns more closely with the Village’s desired outcomes.
In addition, PAA’s proposal represents a significantly lower overall cost —$14,750 plus actual
travel expenses, compared to $23,500 (all-inclusive) from Innovative Public Advisors.
For these reasons, staff recommends proceeding with Public Administration Associates as the
preferred consultant and authorizing the Village Administrator to execute the necessary
agreements.
If the Joint Finance Committee and Village Board were in favor of this motion:
“I move to approve the proposal from Public Administration Associates (PAA) for Strategic
Planning and Elected Official Training services at a cost not to exceed $14,750 plus actual travel
expenses, and to authorize the Village Administrator to execute the necessary agreements on
behalf of the Village.”
POLICY ALTERNATIVE(S)
The Finance Committee and Village Board could take the following actions:
• Approve
• Public Administration Associates
• Innovative Public Advisors
• Seek Add’ Information/Firm
• No Action
ATTACHMENTS
1. Public Administration Associates Proposal
2. Innovative Public Advisors Proposal
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Page 1
Proposal for Comprehensive
Strategic Planning Services
Submitted by Innovative
Public Advisors (IPA)
May 18, 2026
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Page 2
Monday, May 18, 2026
Dear Village Administrator Ben McAndrews:
Innovative Public Advisors (IPA) is pleased to submit our proposal to facilitate the Village of Sister
Bay’s 2027–2029 Strategic Plan. The IPA team has a strong track record of facilitating impactful
strategic planning processes for municipalities and local government organizations, and we are
excited about the opportunity to collaborate with Sister Bay in developing a forward-looking
framework that supports the Village’s long-term priorities and continued success.
IPA is uniquely qualified to support the Village of Sister Bay through this process based on our
direct experience working with the Village and our strong understanding of the community,
organizational culture, and leadership priorities. Our familiarity with Sister Bay’s character,
opportunities, and challenges allows us to facilitate meaningful discussions that are grounded
in local context and focused on practical, actionable outcomes.
IPA is a premier public sector executive recruitment and strategy firm dedicated to empowering
municipalities with tailored solutions that enhance leadership, optimize operations, and drive
positive community impact. Founded by experienced municipal professionals Jay Shambeau,
ICMA-CM, MPA, and Jess Wildes, MPA, our team combines decades of experience with innovative
methodologies to address unique challenges in strategic planning. We have successfully
developed and facilitated strategic plans for communities across Wisconsin, with an emphasis
on stakeholder engagement, actionable implementation strategies, and alignment with
organizational goals and community values.
We look forward to the opportunity to partner with the Village Board, leadership team, staff,
and community stakeholders to help shape Sister Bay’s future through a meaningful and
collaborative strategic planning process.
Thank you for your consideration!
Sincerely,
Jess Wildes, MPA, MS
Partner, Innovative Public Advisors
jess@public-advisors.com | 262-339-5658
Jay Shambeau, ICMA-CM, MPA
Partner, Innovative Public Advisors
jay@public-advisors.com | 262-355-6102
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Our Approach
IPA’s strategic planning services will help the Village of Sister Bay define long-term goals, prioritize initiatives,
and align resources for maximum impact. Our process includes facilitating collaborative planning sessions,
conducting needs assessments, and developing a clear, actionable plan that addresses community challenges
and opportunities. By engaging stakeholders throughout the process, IPA ensures strategies are both
inclusive and feasible, empowering Sister Bay to drive continued growth and improve services for residents.
IPA proposes a detailed and collaborative process tailored to the Village of Sister Bay’s unique needs.
Discovery
The IPA team will conduct a discovery phase to ensure a full understanding of Sister Bay’s unique needs.
The discovery phase is a critical foundation of IPA’s approach to the strategic planning process, designed to
establish a shared understanding of Sister Bay’s unique context, challenges, and opportunities. This phase
ensures that the strategic plan is grounded in data-driven insights and meaningful stakeholder input. The
discovery phase includes the following steps:
•
Documen
t Review: Analyze existing plans, policies, financial reports, and performance data to
understand the Village’s current strategic framework.
•
S
takeholder Identification and Engagement: Conduct individual interviews/surveys with key
stakeholders, including elected officials and staff.
•
G
roup Meeting: Facilitate an interactive session with elected officials and key staff to explore the
Village of Sister Bay’s Mission, Vision and Values, conduct a Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities, and
Threats (SWOT) exercise, brainstorm strategic priorities, set goals, identify action items, and discuss
roles.
•
V
isioning: Discuss the desired outcomes of the strategic planning process and align on success
metrics.
Environmental Scan
IPA approaches an environmental scan by gathering and analyzing internal and external factors that
influence the Village’s operations and planning efforts. IPA will engage with key stakeholders, including
Village leadership, staff, community members, and regional partners, to ensure a holistic understanding of
the Village’s current environment.
The IPA team will conduct an environmental scan for the Village of Sister Bay that will consider a wide range
of factors to ensure a thorough and comprehensive assessment. These factors include:
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Internal Environmental Factors
•
W
orkforce Capacity: Analysis of staff skills, expertise, recruitment challenges, and retention trends.
•
Budget and F
inancial Health: Evaluation of revenue streams, expenditures, and fiscal sustainability.
•
I
nfrastructure and Assets: Review existing facilities, technology, and physical resources.
External Environmental Factors
•
Demog
raphics and Population Trends: Study of population growth, age distribution, and migration
patterns affecting service needs.
•
E
conomic Conditions: Analysis of local industries, employment rates, and economic development
opportunities.
•
P
olitical and Legislative Context: Review of local, state, and federal regulations and policy trends.
•
S
ocial and Community Needs: Consideration of equity, public health, housing, childcare, education,
and social services.
•
En
vironmental and Natural Resources: Assessment of parkland, environmental areas and resource
management.
•
T
echnology and Innovation: Exploration of emerging technologies and digital solutions relevant to
Village operations.
•
R
egional and Collaborative Dynamics: Evaluation of relationships and existing collaborations with
neighboring jurisdictions and regional initiatives.
Emerging Trends and Threats
•
P
ublic Expectations and Engagement: Monitoring changing community priorities and
communication needs.
•
R
egional and National Influences: Identifying external shocks (e.g., pandemics, economic downturns)
and their potential local impacts.
•
C
ompetitive and Market Pressures: Understanding the Village’s position relative to other regions in
attracting businesses, residents, and investments.
By integrating these factors, the environmental scan captures a nuanced picture of the internal and external
dynamics shaping Sister Bay’s opportunities and challenges. This comprehensive approach enables the
development of a strategic plan that is realistic, forward-looking, and aligned with community priorities.
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Comprehensive Organizational Profile
IPA will develop a comprehensive organizational profile, an overview of the Village’s resources, structure, and
capabilities. This process will include:
•
Da
ta Collection and Analysis: Reviewing demographic trends, economic conditions, service delivery
metrics, and organizational performance data.
•
P
olicy and Context Review: Assessing local, state, and federal policies, as well as emerging trends
impacting governance and service delivery in the Village of Sister Bay.
•
I
nternal Review: Examine organizational performance, workforce capacity, financial health, and
infrastructure to identify strengths and weaknesses.
S.W.O.T. (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) Analysis
IPA will analyze strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to inform strategic priorities. Our approach
includes data collection to:
•
Iden
tify internal capabilities and resources that give the Village a competitive advantage.
•
H
ighlight internal areas needing improvement to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
•
Explor
e external factors and trends that can be leveraged to achieve strategic goals.
•
A
ssess external challenges and risks that may hinder progress.
IPA will use a scoring system to rank factors based on their impact and relevance to the Village’s vision and
goals. A detailed SWOT report will connect findings to actionable insights. The use of the analysis will
inform the identification of strategic priorities, ensuring alignment with community needs and
organizational capacity.
This systematic process ensures the SWOT analysis is comprehensive, inclusive, and directly tied to the
development of meaningful strategic priorities for the Village of Sister Bay.
Plan Development
The IPA team will develop a strategic plan that transforms insights articulated throughout the process into
actionable goals, recommendations and strategies.
IPA will work with Village leadership to define a clear vision and mission that reflect the Village’s core values
and long-term aspirations. These foundational elements will guide the structure and tone of the plan. The
IPA team will identify strategic priorities based on the data and input gathered. These priorities will address
critical challenges, leverage opportunities, and align with the Village’s capacity and resources. Each priority
will be broken down into specific, measurable goals to ensure clarity and accountability.
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For each goal, IPA will outline strategies and initiatives that provide a roadmap for implementation. This
includes assigning responsibilities, setting timelines, and identifying necessary resources to achieve success.
Attention will also be given to aligning these strategies with the Village’s budget and operational planning.
To ensure the plan remains relevant and adaptable, IPA will incorporate key performance indicators (KPIs)
and a framework for regular progress monitoring. This will help Village leaders track achievements, measure
impact, and adjust strategies as needed.
IPA will create a polished, user-friendly document that communicates the plan clearly to stakeholders and
the community. The plan will include an overview of the process, visuals, charts, and concise language to
make it accessible and engaging for a wide audience. Through this structured and innovative approach, IPA
will deliver a comprehensive Strategic Plan that equips the Village of Sister Bay with a clear path to achieving
its goals and serving its community effectively.
Delivery & Implementation
IPA will deliver the Strategic Plan to the Village of Sister Bay with a focus on clarity, engagement, and
alignment with Village objectives. The delivery process includes three key components:
1. Final Plan Document
The IPA team will present a comprehensive, actionable Strategic Plan document that includes:
- A clear articulation of the Village’s vision, mission, and core values.
- Strategic priorities, goals, and initiatives with detailed action steps.
- Performance metrics and a framework for monitoring progress.
- Visual elements, such as charts and graphics, to enhance understanding.
The plan will be structured to serve as both a roadmap for implementation and a tool for
communicating the Village’s direction to internal and external stakeholders.
2. Presentation to the Village Board
The IPA team will conduct a formal presentation to the Village Board, ensuring the plan is effectively
communicated to leadership and key decision-makers. The presentation will:
- Highlight the planning process, including stakeholder engagement and data analysis.
- Explain the rationale behind the identified priorities and goals.
- Outline implementation strategies and expected outcomes.
- Provide an opportunity for Village Board member feedback.
3. Staff and Community Tools
IPA will also provide tools for Village Staff and the community:
- Summary infographic document of the plan’s key elements in a clear and concise manner.
- Dashboard or template report that staff can update and provide to the public, showing the
progress on meeting the strategic plan goals.
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Project Timeline
The Comprehensive Strategic Planning process will take approximately four (4) months to complete.
An approximate schedule of dates includes:
•
P
roject Commencement: Mid-June 2026 (kick-off meeting)
•
R
esearch and Data Synthesis: Mid-June/July
•
S
takeholder Interviews/Surveys: July
•
Gr
oup Meeting: July/August
•
P
lan Development and Review: July/August
•
R
eview First Draft of Plan: August
•
F
inal Presentation and Delivery of Plan to Village Board: September
Timeline subject to change based on the Village’s preferences.
Fee Schedule (Budget)
IPA’s strategic planning services are collaborative and comprehensive. The total project cost below includes
all components of the services outlined in this proposal, including meetings, surveys, research, plan
development, and presentations. IPA will be onsite to facilitate engaging discussions and presentations.
Total Project Cost (Not to Exceed): $23,500.00 (Includes all travel and expenses for two (2) trips to the Village
of Sister Bay. Contract and payment schedule to follow upon approval.)
•
I
nitial Payment: Upon execution of the contract, the Village of Sister Bay will pay $11,750.00 (50%)
of the total project cost.
•
F
inal Payment: Upon delivery of the completed plan, IPA will invoice for the final payment
of $11,750.00.
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Experience and Qualifications
Innovative Public Advisors (IPA) is a premier public sector executive recruitment and strategy firm dedicated
to empowering municipalities with tailored solutions that enhance leadership, optimize operations, and
drive positive community impact. Founded by experienced municipal professionals Jay Shambeau, ICMA-
CM, MPA, and Jess Wildes, MPA, IPA offers a wide range of services including executive recruitment, grant
writing, governance training, communications strategy, and strategic plan development. With a focus
on delivering innovative, sustainable solutions, IPA is committed to helping local governments navigate
complex challenges and strengthen their capacity to serve their communities effectively.
References and Relevant Work Examples
IPA’s strategic planning services are collaborative and comprehensive. The IPA team is currently facilitating a
3-year Strategic Plan for Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, and recently led a Strategic Priorities Retreat for the
City of River Falls, Wisconsin. References for these projects are listed below:
•
R
ebecca Glewen, County Administrator, Trempealeau County, Wisconsin
rebecca.glewen@co.trempealeau.wi.us, 920-763-4094
•
S
cot Simpson, City Administrator, River Falls, Wisconsin
ssimpson@rfcity.org, 715-426-3402
Recent strategic planning services include:
April 2025 - Strategic Priorities Retreat Summary: IPA facilitated a City Council and
Executive Team retreat for the City of River Falls, Wisconsin. IPA led a structured, engaging,
and productive retreat that fostered collaboration, candid communication and strategic
thinking. The retreat focused on key priorities, encouraged team building, and developed a
shared vision for the future.
March 2025 - Strategic Communications Plan: Through an interactive process,
IPA developed an intentional and actionable 3-year strategic communications plan
for Trempealeau County. The plan will serve as a roadmap for the to-be-formed
Communications Department. It includes five overarching goals supported by clearly
articulated strategies and tactics.
February 2025 - Communications Staffing Assessment: The IPA team conducted a
thorough communications needs and staffing assessment for Trempealeau County, which
was inclusive of interviews, research and data collection. IPA developed a written report of
findings with recommendations for implementation that was formally adopted with the
Strategic Communications Plan on April 17, 2025.
View and download plans at:
https://tinyurl.com/IPA-related-work
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Advancing local government a different way—the IPA way.
Innovative Public Advisors (IPA) is a premier public sector executive recruitment and strategy
firm dedicated to empowering municipalities with tailored solutions that enhance leadership,
optimize operations, and drive positive community impact.
Founded by experienced municipal professionals Jay Shambeau, ICMA-CM, MPA, and Jess
Wildes, MPA, IPA offers a wide range of services. With a focus on delivering innovative,
sustainable solutions, IPA is committed to helping local governments navigate complex
challenges and strengthen their capacity to serve their communities effectively.
Services
Executive Recruitment
and Interim Services
Economic Development
and Grant Writing
Strategic and Specialty
Plan Development
Professional Coaching
and Mentorship
Communications and
Marketing Strategies
Governance Training
and Facilitated Workshops
IPA Team
Innovative Public Advisors is led by partners Jess Wildes and Jay Shambeau, two seasoned
professionals with extensive experience in public sector management and strategic consulting.
Together, they bring a wealth of expertise in government administration,
operations, communications, and leadership development—offering innovative
solutions to help local governments thrive.
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MPA, MS
ASSISTANT CITY ADMINISTRATOR
City of West Bend, West Bend, Wisconsin, 2020–2025
Also served as Communications and Economic Development Director
• P erformed economic development activities to promote business
development,
r
etention, and job creation.
•
C
oordinated with all departments to increase the quality and
consistency of the city organization's messaging and content.
•
A
cquired alternative revenue sources through grants
($6.5+ million), fundraising and partnerships.
•
S
et strategy and managed a talented team of professionals
responsible for community television programming, social media,
public relations, internal and
e
xternal communications, brand
management, and tourism promotion.
•
Built meaning
ful relationships with constituents, community
leaders, business owners, state-level officials, and economic
developers.
•
M
anaged five city departments: Assessors, Communications,
City Clerk, Human Resources, and Information Technology.
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING
Museum of Wisconsin Art, West Bend, Wisconsin, 2017–2020
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Trefoil Group, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 2016–2017
DIRECTOR OF RECRUITMENT MARKETING
M
ount Mary University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 2013–2016
Northland College, Ashland, WI, 2009–2013
EDUCATION
MASTER OF PUBLIC
ADMINISTRATION
Univ
ersity of Wisconsin
Oshkosh
MASTER OF SCIENCE
Integrated Marketing
Communications
Eastern Michigan University
BACHELOR OF ARTS
C
ollege of Saint Benedict &
S
aint John’s University
SERVICE
Rotary International
West Bend Sunrise Rotary Club
International City/County
Management Association
(ICMA) Assistant Chief
Administrative Officer (ACAO)
Committee Member
Wisconsin Economic
Development Association
(WEDA) Board Member
Mid-Moraine Municipal
Court Board Member
Downtown West Bend Business
Improvement District (BID)
Board Executive Director
Visit Washington County
B
oard
Member and Vice President
Honored as one of ELGL ’s
“Top 100 Influencers in
Local Government”
jess@public-advisors.com | 262-339-5658
INNOVATIVE PUBLIC ADVISORS, PARTNER
Jess is a seasoned strategist specializing in local government communications,
public relations, and grant acquisition. With a proven track record of securing
significant local, state, and federal funding, Jess has helped municipalities
access critical resources to support community development, infrastructure,
and essential services. Her work also includes crafting effective communication
strategies, enhancing public engagement, and building transparent, trust-
based relationships between local governments and their communities. With
her expertise in both strategic messaging and grant writing, Jess is committed
to helping local governments secure the resources they need while fostering
strong, effective communication.
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CITY ADMINISTRATOR
City of West Bend, West Bend, Wisconsin, 2016–2025
•
R
esponsible for the administration of daily city operations and
implementing policies established by the City Council.
•
O
versaw a $30M budget, led economic development activities,
managed department head team, fostered community engagement,
ensured efficient delivery of services, and promoted the city’s growth
and development.
ASSOCIATE
Public Administration Associates, LLC, Wisconsin, 2024
PLANNING AND PARKS ADMINISTRATOR
Washington County, Wisconsin, 2014-2016
COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
Calumet County, Wisconsin, 2008-2014
•
R
esponsible for the daily operations of county government, ensuring
efficient delivery of services and adherence to budgetary guidelines.
•
C
ollaborated with elected officials, managed staff, and facilitated
c
ommunication between departments to promote effective
governance
and c
ommunity engagement.
VILLAGE ADMINISTRATOR
V
illage of Kewaskum, Wisconsin, 2006-2008
•
R
esponsible for the management of municipal operations, including
implemen
ting policies set by the Village Board and managing all
departments.
•
T
his position involved budgeting, community planning, economic
dev
elopment, and fostering relationships to ensure effective service
deliv
ery and enhance community development.
PLANNING DIRECTOR
Clar
k County, Wisconsin, 1993-2006
EDUCATION
MASTER OF PUBLIC
ADMINISTRATION
UW - Oshkosh
B
ACHELOR OF SCIENCE
R
egional Analysis and
Geography, UW - Green Bay
LEADERSHIP WISCONSIN
UW-Madison, 2014
ACCOLADES
Credentialed Manager
International City/County
Management Association, 2024
Recipient of ICMA’s prestigious
30
Years of Service Award
SERVICE
Rotary International
West Bend Sunrise Rotary Club
Boys and Girls Club of
W
ashington County
Board Member
United Way of Washington
County, Campaign Co-Chair
West Bend Area Chamber of
Commerce, Board Member
West Bend Tourism
Commission, Chairman
Kettle Moraine Lutheran High
School, Board Member and
President
jay@public-advisors.com | 262-355-6102
INNOVATIVE PUBLIC ADVISORS, PARTNER
Jay is a public sector professional with 32 years of expertise in village, city,
and county government management, strategic planning, and public
policy. Jay has worked with municipalities of all sizes to drive organizational
efficiency, enhance governance, and secure funding. His background includes
leading complex projects, facilitating collaborative planning efforts, and
providing executive coaching to local government leaders. Jay is known for
his relationship skills and practical approach, blending deep knowledge of
governmental processes with a commitment to delivering impactful results.
Jay has helped numerous local governments achieve their goals and navigate
the challenges of an ever-evolving public sector landscape.
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Innovative Public Advisors, LLC
public-advisors.com
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0 | P a g e
Public Administration Associates, LLC
Proposal to Provide Strategic Planning Services to the
Village of Sister Bay
May 29, 2026
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1 | P a g e
Public Administration Associates
Public Administration Associates
1155 W. South Street
Whitewater, WI 53190
262.903.9509
www.public-administration.com
kevin.brunner1013@gmail.com
May 29, 2026
Mr. Benjamin Andrews, Administrator
Village of Sister Bay
2383 Maple Drive
Sister Bay, WI 54234
Dear Village Administrator Andrews:
On behalf of Public Administration Associates, LLC (PAA), I am pleased to submit the
following proposal for the Village of Sister Bay’s consideration that addresses your request for
strategic planning services.
As you may be aware, PAA has specialized in working with smaller local units of government in
Wisconsin on a wide variety of consulting projects, including organizational audits/management
reviews, executive recruitment, and strategic planning studies, since its founding in 1998. We
have a track record of success, and we encourage you to contact any of the more than 250
Wisconsin cities, counties, villages, and towns we have served.
PAA would be extremely privileged and honored to work with the Village of Sister Bay on this
very important work, which will define what Sister Bay will become in the next five years and
beyond. We know that our PAA partners and associates who will work with the Village on this
project can provide significant value to your organization based on their extensive local
government experience and expertise.
Sincerely,
Kevin M. Brunner
Kevin M. Brunner
President
cc- Clint Gridley, PAA Associate
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Public Administration Associates
PROPOSAL TABLE OF CONTENTS
About Public Administration Associates ………………………………………………………………………..3
PAA Local Government Clients…………………………………………………………………………………………..9
Our Approach to Strategic Planning………………………………………………………………………………….11
Our Proposed Strategic Planning Process for Sister Bay ………………………………………..13
Project Costs……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..17
Schedule………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………………………17
Qualifications of PAA Consulting Team…………………………………………………………………………..19
References………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..20
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About Public Administration Associates
SINCE 1998
Taking Local Government
to New Heights…
Public Administration Associates, LLC (PAA) is recognized as one of the most trusted, skilled,
and effective local government consultants in Wisconsin and the Midwest. Our consultants are
highly skilled practitioners who get the job done through unparalleled commitment to public
service, the highest standards of service to their clients, and the efficient use of client time and
resources. PAA has built a sterling reputation earned from almost 30 years of municipal
consulting and a combined 400+ years of public management experience.
A New Generation of PAA Leadership
PAA was organized in April 1998 by partners William Frueh, Denise Frueh, and Dr. Stephen
Hintz. Kevin Brunner is now President of PAA, and the Frueh’s and Hintz are PAA Associates,
along with approximately 15 other local government professionals affiliated with PAA who
work on a project-to-project basis. In 2020, Kevin Brunner was joined by David Bretl and
Christopher Swartz as partners of the firm. In early 2025, Swartz became a Senior Associate of
the firm, and Susan McDade and Shawn Murphy became new partners with Brunner and Bretl.
Brunner currently serves as the firm’s president, while Bretl serves as CEO/General Counsel,
with McDade serving as vice president and Murphy as secretary/treasurer.
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Kevin Brunner-President
Project Manager-Village of Sister Bay Strategic
Planning Project
Kevin Brunner has over forty years of experience in serving
Wisconsin local governments. He served as the
manager/administrator in Saukville, Monona, De Pere, and
Whitewater, and worked as an assistant administrator for the
City of Appleton and Kenosha County. He retired from public
service as the Director of Central Services/Public Works for
Walworth County. Brunner was the recipient of the 2007
Wisconsin City/County Manager of the Year and 2012 Service
Innovation awards, both from the Wisconsin City/County
Management Association (WCMA). Brunner is a past president
of the WCMA and served on the League of Wisconsin
Municipalities and Alliance of Cities Boards of Directors. He
received his BA in Political Science and Criminal Justice from
Carthage College (Magna Cum Laude and Rhodes Scholar
Nominee); MPA from Michigan State University, and is a
graduate of the University of Virginia Senior Executive
Institute. He earned the credentialed manager (ICMA-CM)
designation from the International County/City Management
Association during his city management career. He has served
on numerous public and non-profit boards and was chair of
the Geneva Lake Conservancy for six years (2018-2024).
Brunner has been actively consulting since 2014.
David Bretl-CEO/General Counsel
David Bretl has served local governments in Wisconsin for over
30 years. He retired in early 2020 from his position as County
Administrator and Corporation Counsel for Walworth County,
a combined position that he had held since 2003. He joined
PAA as a partner in January 2020, but has been working as a
consultant with the firm since 2018. During his 18 years at
Walworth County, Dave was involved in two board downsizing
efforts, the replacement of most of the County’s facilities, and
the consolidation of six departments. Dave has moderated the
county’s Intergovernmental Cooperation Council (a
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collaborative effort among municipal, county, and town
governments) since 2008 and serves as an advisor to
Leadership Walworth, a program designed to develop public,
nonprofit, and private-sector leaders. In 2005, he helped
organize a county-wide private-public economic development
initiative, WCEDA (Walworth County Economic Development
Alliance, Inc.). In 2015, that organization honored him by
establishing the Dave Bretl Community Betterment Award.
Sue McDade – Vice President
Sue McDade has over 30 years of experience as a local
government recreation and facilities administrator. She is
recently retired a Community Services Director in Waunakee,
Wisconsin, a fast-growing north Madison suburb.
Responsibilities include recreational programming, supervision
of the community center (including a fitness center,
gymnasium, community room, and senior center), and
development of the park system, currently consisting of over
200 acres of parkland. McDade obtained a master’s degree in
Recreation and Park Administration from Penn State
University. She is a past president of the Wisconsin Park and
Recreation Association (WPRA), serving from 2014 to 2016.
She is the recipient of numerous Wisconsin and regional
honors and awards, including the prestigious WPRA
Professional Award of Merit in 2010. McDade teaches courses
in the Recreation Management Program at Madison Area
Technical College.
McDade works on executive recruitment and park-and-
recreation-related management studies for PAA.
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Shawn Murphy – Secretary/Treasurer
Shawn Murphy has held positions in state and local
government for over 30 years, with 26 years' experience as a
Municipal Administrator. After obtaining his Bachelor's
Degree in Business Administration from the University of
Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 1986 and his Master's Degree in Public
Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in
1990, Murphy began his career as a Budget & Program
Coordinator for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.
Murphy served as Assistant Village Manager in Whitefish Bay
from 1992-1997; Village Administrator in Prairie du Sac from
1997 to 2007; City Administrator in Verona from 2007 to 2010
and City Administrator in Portage from 2012 to 2023. Murphy
has a strong track record of collaboration and was involved in
the formation of the North Shore Fire Department, the
reformation of a joint Police Department between Prairie du
Sac and Sauk City; worked closely with the Sauk Prairie School
District to create the Sauk Prairie Recreation Commission that
includes 6 municipalities and was involved in the creation of a
joint municipal court commission that includes 4
municipalities. Murphy was an active member of the
Wisconsin City/County Managers Association (WCMA) and the
International City Managers' Association, serving on numerous
committees. In 2023, Murphy received a lifetime achievement
award from the WCMA.
Mr. Murphy works on interim management assignments and
executive recruitment projects for PAA.
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Clint Gridley – Associate
Project Lead Consultant-Sister Bay Strategic
Planning Project
Clint Gridley has 40 years of municipal management
experience in Illinois, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin, most
recently as City Administrator for Woodbury, MN (2004-2025),
City Administrator for Cedarburg, WI (1992-2004), Assistant
City Manager of Miamisburg, OH (1988-1992) and Assistant to
the City Manager of Highland Park, IL (1984-1985). Mr. Gridley
was the recipient of the Dr. Robert A. Barrett Award for
Management Excellence from the Minnesota City/County
Management Association in 2015. He has also received a
Lifetime Achievement Award from the Woodbury Area
Chamber of Commerce and the Community Service Person of
the Year from the Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce. He also
attained credentialed city manager status from the
International City/County Management Association. He is
experienced in all aspects of local government management,
including finance, budgeting, performance measurement, and
personnel programs. His academic credentials include a
master’s degree in public administration from the University of
Kansas, with a concentration in Urban Management, and a
Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science from
Westminster College. He is also a graduate of the Senior
Executive Institute of the University of Virginia’s Weldon
Cooper Center for Public Service.
Mr. Gridley works on executive recruitment, interim
management assignments, and municipal strategic planning
projects for PAA.
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Comprehensive Government Consulting Services
Executive Recruitment Interim Management Services
Assisting municipalities in the recruitment and
selection of management personnel, including
managers, administrators, and
department/division heads.
Providing skilled and experienced
administrators on a full-time or part-time
basis for a limited period of time.
Organization & Management Studies Classification & Compensation Studies
Analyzing municipal organizations, operations,
and management structure and procedures
using best practice standards. Specializing in
organizational assessments, public works, and
public safety.
Analyzing and developing classification and
compensation plans using internal and
external equity standards.
Economic Development Services Strategic Planning & Implementation
Assisting communities establish and implement
economic development projects and programs,
including downtown revitalization initiatives,
redevelopment and tax incremental financing,
business improvement district plans,
brownfields initiatives, and business and
industrial park planning and development.
Performing community needs assessments,
preparation of plans, strategies for
implementation of community plans, site
planning/development review assistance,
and assisting communities in the
development of boundary agreements and
cooperative plans.
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PAA Local Government Clients
The number beside the municipality name is the number of times PAA has assisted the municipality. State of
Wisconsin unless otherwise noted. View the interactive map on our website for the work that we have performed
for these communities.
Cities
Abbotsford (2)
Adams (2)
Algoma
Amery
Antigo (4)
Ashland (2)
Baraboo (3)
Berlin (3)
Brodhead
Brillion
Chilton (2)
Chippewa Falls (3)
Clintonville (2)
Columbus (5)
Crystal River, FL
Cudahy
Delavan (2)
DePere (3)
Dodgeville
Durand (3)
Eagle River
El Paso, IL
Elkhorn
Elroy (3)
Evansville (3)
Fond du Lac
Fort Atkinson (3)
Fox Lake (3)
Franklin
Geneseo, IL
Glendale
Hartford
Hillsboro (3)
Horicon (2)
Hudson (3)
Independence, IA
Jefferson (5)
Kewaunee
Lake Elmo, MN
Lake Geneva (2)
Lake Mills
Lancaster (4)
Marinette (2)
Marquette, IA
Marshfield (2)
Mauston (3)
Menominee, MI
Menomonie (2)
Mequon
Menasha
Merrill
Middleton (2)
Milton (2)
Mineral Point
Minonk, IL (3)
Monona (3)
Monroe (3)
New Holstein
New Lisbon
New London (3)
Niagara
Oak Park Heights, MN
Oconto (2)
Omro (2)
Park Falls (2)
Pewaukee
Pine Island, MN
Platteville (5)
Prairie du Chien (2)
Princeton (2)
Portage (3)
Port Washington (2)
Racine
Reedsburg (2)
Rhinelander
Rice Lake
Richland Center
Ripon (3)
Shawano (5)
South Haven, MI
St. Croix Falls
St. Francis
Sturgeon Bay (6)
Thorp
Tomah (2)
Two Rivers
Verona (3)
Viroqua
Washburn (3)
Waukesha
Waupaca
Waupun (2)
Wautoma
Wauwatosa (2)
Weyauwega (3)
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Whitewater (3)
Villages
Allouez
Ashwaubenon
Bayside (3)
Bellevue (2)
Belleville (3)
Black Earth
Bonduel
Brown Deer
Clinton (2)
Colfax
Cross Plains (2)
Darien
Deerfield (3)
DeForest (2)
Denmark (2)
East Troy
Edgar
Egg Harbor (2)
Elkhart Lake
Elm Grove
Ephraim
Fox Point (2)
Germantown (2)
Grafton (3)
Greendale (2)
Greenville
Hales Corners (2)
Hammond
Hartland (3)
Howard (3)
Johnson Creek (3)
Kewaskum
Little Chute (6)
Lodi (3)
Marathon City
Marshall (3)
Maple Bluff
McFarland (2)
Menomonee Falls
Merton
Mount Horeb
New Glarus (4)
North Fond du Lac (3)
Oregon (2)
Osceola (4)
Paddock Lake (2)
Palmyra
Pardeeville
Pewaukee
Port Edwards
Poynette
Prairie du Sac
Pulaski (2)
Rothschild (2)
Sherwood
Shorewood Hills (3)
Slinger (2)
Somers
Somerset
Spring Green
Suamico (3)
Stanley
Sturtevant
Sussex
Thiensville (2)
Turtle Lake
Twin Lakes (2)
Union Grove (2)
Vernon
Waterford
Waunakee
W. Milwaukee (3)
Weston
Williams Bay (2)
Wind Point (4)
Winneconne (4)
Whitefish Bay (3)
Wrightstown (3)
Towns
Algoma (4)
Beloit
Buchanan (5)
Cedarburg (2)
Clayton
East Troy
Empire
Fox Crossing (Menasha)
(4)
Gibraltar (2)
Grand Chute (4)
Greenville (2)
La Pointe (3)
Lawrence (2)
Ledgeview
Little Suamico
Linn (2)
Lisbon
Oconto
Osceola
Rome
Rib Mountain
Richfield (2)
Rome
Somers
Sevastopol
Troy (2)
Washington
Weston
Counties
Ashland
Calumet
Eau Claire
Chippewa (4)
Dodge (2)
Door
Grant
Green
Green Lake (2)
Kewaunee
Iowa (2)
Monroe
Oconto (2)
Pepin
Polk (3)
Price
Richland (3)
Sauk
Sawyer (2)
Shawano
Trempeleau
Vernon (2)
Wabasha, MN (2)
Washburn (2)
Waushara
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1. PAA’s Approach to Strategic Planning
The Process of Strategic Planning in Local Government
Successful local governments share common traits that strengthen their ability to serve their
communities: a compelling vision for the future, a clear mission of public service, alignment
across departments, and high levels of employee engagement. These traits don’t emerge by
chance—they are the result of intentional, strategic efforts to align people, resources, and
policies around shared priorities.
A robust strategic plan for local government begins with the community’s mission, vision, and
values. Strategic planning is not about compiling a list of projects; it is about providing context
and direction for how projects, services, and day-to-day operations should be carried out in
pursuit of broader community goals.
Our approach to local government strategic planning starts with foundational elements—mission,
vision, and values—then moves into planning assumptions. Planning assumptions help local
leaders consider the social, economic, environmental, technological, demographic, and political
forces that shape the community’s future. These factors, many outside the community’s control,
must be understood to chart a resilient path forward.
From this foundation, broad strategies are developed that reflect the community’s aspirations and
responsibilities. Outcomes then translate those strategies into tangible results for residents—for
example: safer neighborhoods, stronger economic growth, improved infrastructure, or greater
trust in government. Outcomes are essential because they answer the most important question of
all: “What difference will this make in the lives of the people we serve?”
The final step is to identify the specific policies, programs, and initiatives that will move the
community toward those outcomes. This process ensures that everyday decisions—about
budgets, staffing, and priorities—are consistently aligned with the community’s long-term
vision.
The Importance of Mission in Local Government
A mission statement defines the role of local government in its community. While this often
includes providing essential services such as public safety, infrastructure, and parks, it should
also reflect the deeper purpose of strengthening the quality of life, advancing equity, and
fostering civic trust.
Without a clear mission, assumptions will fill the void. Residents may impose their own
expectations, departments may define their roles differently, and employees may lose sight of
how their work contributes to the greater good. A well-defined mission provides clarity for
residents, staff, and elected officials alike, encouraging collaboration around shared priorities.
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The Importance of Vision
A vision statement paints a picture of the community’s desired future. It is aspirational, forward-
looking, and rooted in the collective hopes of residents. For local governments, a strong vision
might describe a safe, welcoming, and prosperous community; a vibrant downtown; sustainable
growth; or a thriving environment. When shared broadly and communicated clearly, a vision
helps city councils, county boards, and staff move from short-term, reactive decision-making
toward proactive governance.
Defining Community Values
Values guide how local governments serve their communities and interact with residents. They
reflect principles such as transparency, inclusiveness, fiscal responsibility, environmental
stewardship, or innovation. Clearly articulated values not only shape organizational culture but
also signal to residents what they can expect from their government.
Planning Assumptions
Local governments operate in a complex environment shaped by forces often beyond their
control: demographic shifts, changing state or federal policies, workforce shortages, economic
conditions, and emerging technologies. Strategic planning identifies which of these forces are
most likely to impact the community and uses that awareness to prepare flexible, forward-
thinking strategies.
Strategies, Outcomes, and Actions
Strategies in local government describe broad approaches to fulfilling the mission and achieving
the community’s vision—for example:
Supporting safe and welcoming neighborhoods
Strengthening economic opportunity
Maintaining reliable infrastructure
Enhancing resident engagement
While strategies provide direction, outcomes make the impact tangible. Outcomes might include:
Increased resident satisfaction with public safety services
Reduced infrastructure repair backlog
Growth in small business development
Greater resident trust and participation in local decision-making
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From outcomes, specific objectives and performance measures can be developed. These not only
track progress but also foster accountability to residents. Finally, concrete actions—such as
capital projects, new service models, or communication initiatives—translate strategies and
outcomes into visible results for the community.
Budgeting and Finance in Local Government
Budgeting is often the most tangible expression of strategy in local government. Too often,
however, budgeting begins with the question, “How much money do we have?” instead of “What
outcomes do we want to achieve for our residents?” When budgeting is guided by a strategic
plan, every dollar becomes an investment in the community’s future. Funding decisions can be
tied directly to outcomes, ensuring that resources are focused on the highest priorities. This
strengthens transparency and accountability, as residents can see how tax dollars align with their
community's mission and vision.
Why Outcomes Matter Most for Local Governments
At its core, local government strategic planning is not just about managing operations—it’s about
improving lives. Outcomes are the measure of that improvement. They answer the community’s
most pressing question: “What difference does this make for us?”
By defining and measuring outcomes, local governments move beyond activity-based planning
(“what we will do”) toward impact-based governance (“what difference it will make”). This shift
builds public trust, sharpens accountability, and ensures that government resources are directed
where they matter most.
In the end, outcomes connect the “why” of government to the “what” and “how,” turning
strategic plans into living guides for stronger, more resilient, and more vibrant communities.
,2. Our Proposed Strategic Planning Process for
Sister Bay
As we understand the needs of the Village of Sister Bay, as identified in our discussion with
Village Administrator Andrews, the Village's primary goal in this project is to clearly define the
mission, vision, and future strategic initiatives of the Village government. The outcome will be a
roadmap for future growth and the prioritization of services to meet the needs of Sister Bay’s
citizens, as well as those who work for, visit and do business in the Village.
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Recommended Governance and Process for the Village’s Strategic Planning
Effort
To ensure the success of the Village’s strategic planning process, PAA recommends establishing
a Village Project Leader and, if appropriate, a Steering Committee, and guiding the process
through the following four-step strategic planning framework.
Village Project Leader and Possible Project Steering Committee
We recommend that the Village appoint a Village Project Leader who would serve as the chief
point of contact for PAA throughout the Village's strategic planning process. In addition, a
Strategic Planning Steering Committee, composed of representatives from the Village Board,
Village staff, and potential community stakeholders, should be considered. This project manager
and/or project steering committee will:
• Provide guidance and feedback at key milestones
• Ensure the process reflects diverse perspectives
• Help build consensus around mission, vision, values, and priorities
• Serve as ambassadors to the broader community to build understanding and trust
The Project Manager and/or Steering Committee will not manage day-to-day activities but will
play an essential role in shaping the process and ensuring transparency and accountability.
Four-Step Strategic Planning Process
The Process
PAA, with project lead consultant Clint Gridley, will design, develop, and execute four stages of
the strategic process, along with post-assessment, to ensure a successful outcome for the project.
We envision four half-day sessions to be conducted as follows:
Session 1: Foundation Building
• Define the Village’s mission, vision, and values
• Confirm the scope and objectives of the planning process
Session 2: Community and Organizational Assessment
• Conduct a combined SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) and
STEEP (Societal, Technological, Economic, Environmental and Political) Trends
• Gather input from Village Board members, Village staff, and key community
stakeholders
• Identify internal strengths and challenges, as well as external trends, risks, and
opportunities
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Session 3: Strategy and Outcomes Development/Implementation Framework
• Develop broad strategic priorities and approaches to guide the Village’s work
• Define desired outcomes that clearly articulate the impact of these strategies on residents
and the community
• Translate strategies and outcomes into operational plans with goals, initiatives,
timelines, and responsible parties
• Identify potential funding sources and partnerships to support implementation
Session 4: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Future Planning
• Create a system of Success Indicators (CI’s) to track progress on the Village Strategic
Plan
• Establish regular reporting mechanisms to keep Village Board, Village staff, community
stakeholders, and residents informed
• Provide recommendations for sustaining momentum, linking strategic priorities to future
budgeting, and preparing for the next planning cycle
This governance model and process ensure that the strategic plan is participatory, transparent,
and actionable. The Village Project Manager and/or Steering Committee provides leadership
and oversight, while the five-step framework offers a clear roadmap from vision-setting to
execution and accountability. The end result will be a living strategic plan—one that not only
reflects the aspirations of the Village but also drives measurable outcomes that improve quality
of life and strengthen public trust.
Post-Assessment: Follow up with the Sister Bay Village Administrator and/or the Village
Strategic Plan Steering Committee regarding deployment of the plan and planning for a
presentation to the full Village Board.
Activities to be Performed by PAA Consultants for
Sister Bay
The first three sessions are designed to build the foundation for a strategic plan (Mission,
Vision, Values, Assumptions, Broad Strategies and Implementation Framework) and will be led
by PAA Associate Clint Gridley. Therefore, participants for the first three sessions should be
members of the Village Board, Village Staff and key identified community stakeholders.
Session four will focus exclusively on execution and deployment aspects of the plan, with
discussions around specific goals and objectives, along with output and outcome success
indicators. Therefore, participants for these sessions should include Village leadership team
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members and (possibly) other identified Village staff. This session will also be led by PAA
Associate Clint Gridley and assisted by PAA President Kevin Brunner, who will bring their
extensive municipal management experience to the process.
These sessions are designed to be interactive to promote engagement and buy-in with all
participants. The outcome is a plan that will not only increase engagement,
awareness, trust, and accountability within the municipal organization but also between the
Village staff and Village Board, as well as community stakeholders.
To maximize our work together during the meetings, participants will be asked to gather
information before/after each session (e.g., feedback from others/information on trends) to
help augment and accelerate meeting discussions. The estimated time for each session is 4 to 5
hours, based on our experience. However, the time should be flexible to accomplish the desired
outcomes. We recommend holding the sessions off-site (away from Village Hall) to minimize
distractions and provide the best environment for team interaction. We also recommend there be
at least two to three weeks between sessions to allow time for thought, reflection, and possible
research and feedback leading into subsequent sessions.
PAA Consultants will work with the Sister Bay Strategic Plan Manager and /or Village Strategic
Planning Committee, and appropriate staff to identify and establish the planning assumptions
(some call this an “environmental scan” or “SWOT” component of an organizational strategic
planning process). These are STEEP (Societal, Technological, Economic, Environmental, and
Political) trends that will impact the Village of Sister Bay during the strategic plan horizon
(typically 3-5 years). We typically develop these planning assumptions between the second and
third sessions, particularly the economic trends (finance and budgeting), which should not be
driving the process as mentioned in Section 1 above.
PAA Consultants will utilize as much citizen survey data as Sister Bay already has to assist in
the strategic planning process. We understand that the Village wants the process to reflect, as
much as possible, the needs, voices, and interests of its changing community. This information
will be particularly important for the analysis of the STEEP trends above. However, PAA has
completed citizen or stakeholder surveys as part of its municipal strategic planning projects in
the past and could provide a separate cost for such a survey if requested by the Village.
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3. Project Costs for Sister Bay Strategic
Planning Process
We strive to keep our costs affordable for the local government clients we serve. We know that
in Wisconsin, with local government levy limits and expenditure restraints, local governments
must be ever cost-conscious.
Total Not to Exceed Cost of $14,750 (Based on Scope of Services Outlined in Section 2
Above) plus Consultant Actual Travel Costs (IRS Rate with an estimate of $750 Total)
Public Administration Associates, LLC will commit whatever time and effort is necessary to fully
and successfully complete all tasks described in this proposal for the specified costs. PAA will
invoice: 33% of the total cost quoted at contract acceptance; 33% after the completion of Session
#3 (strategies and outcomes/implementation); and the remaining 33% after presentation and
acceptance of the Sister Bay Strategic Plan by the Sister Bay Village Board.
*If PAA believes a specific task requested by the Village is beyond the agreed-upon scope of work, it
will negotiate any potential extra charges with the Village.
4. Proposed Sister Bay Strategic Planning
Schedule
PAA will agree to work closely with the Village Administrator and other Village officials (including a
possible Village Strategic Plan Steering Committee) and keep them regularly updated on our strategic
planning progress. As outlined above, there will be five official in-person visits (including a final public
presentation by our consultants to the Sister Bay Village Board). In addition, there could be any number
of Zoom or other virtual meetings with Village officials to best align with the strategic planning process
schedule and goals.
Public Administration Associates, LLC can begin this project in late June, 2026. Based on our experience
and the time-sensitive nature of having a Sister Bay strategic plan in place to direct and guide the future
of the Village, we believe that the entire Sister Bay strategic planning process can be completed in a 14-
16-week timeframe (targeted completion date of October 2026 with presentation to the Sister Bay Village
Board).
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WEEKS 1-2 3-7 8-12 13-16
Virtual Meeting with
Village Administrator
and/or Steering
Committee to Determine
Final Scope of Planning
Process/Schedule
Session #1-Foundation
Building (Why are We
Here?)
Session #2-Community and
Municipal Organization
Assessment (Finalize
Mission, Vision, and
Values)
Community SWOT and
Analysis
Session #3-Strategy and
Outcomes
Development/Implementa
tion Framework
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Consultants and Staff Draft
Success Indicators
Session #4-Monitoring,
Evaluation and Future
Planning
Consultants Draft Sister
Bay Strategic Plan
Presentation of Final
Strategic Plan to Sister Bay
Village Board
5.
Qualifications of PAA Consulting Team for
Village of Sister Bay Strategic Planning
Services
PAA will assign an interdisciplinary team to work with the Village on this consulting
assignment. PAA President Kevin Brunner will serve as Project Manager and Clint Gridley will
be the principal consultant (Project Lead).
Gridley’s qualifications are highlighted above, and here is a link to the current City of Woodbury
Strategic Plan that he developed with an outside facilitator:
https://www.woodburymn.gov/636/Strategic-Initiatives
Brunner has led approximately 20 municipal strategic planning processes during his time with
PAA, as well as for the communities where he served as administrator/manager. Here is a link to
the City of Middleton Strategic Plan he worked on:
https://www.cityofmiddleton.us/635/Strategic-Plan
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Public Administration Associates, LLC will commit whatever time and effort is necessary to
fully and successfully complete all tasks described in this proposal.
6. PAA and Clint Gridley References
Quotes from three recent local government clients:
“PAA consultants exceeded our expectations in every area of our project. They were invested in
creating an inclusive and successful process for our staff, community, and the city
council. Their high degree of professionalism, knowledge, and communication skills was
demonstrated throughout the project. We could not be more pleased. There is no hesitation
in recommending them to any community.”
Former Mayor Anissa Welch, City of Milton
“PAA has conducted four city manager searches for Platteville during my 20+ year tenure on
the City Council. They have also done consulting work for our community. I have found them to
be highly capable professionals who are very networked in the local government profession and
know good governance inside and out, and can facilitate complex planning and employee
selection processes with excellent results.”
City Council President Barbara Daus, City of Platteville
“PAA consultants are highly professional practitioners who interacted extremely well with both
our elected officials and our management team. They have well-refined processes that work. I
recommend them highly!”
President Jim Rafter, Village of Allouez
PAA REFERENCES (WISCONSIN MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC PLANNING)
Michael Davis, Retired City Administrator, City of Middleton, 608-824-0125 (c)
Jeffery Knight, Former CDA President, City of Whitewater, 920-728-0662 (c)
Emily Kuhn, Former Mayor, City of Middleton, 614-551-9792 (c)
CLINT GRIDLEY REFERENCES
Anne Burt, Mayor, City of Woodbury, MN, 651-338-6828 (o)
Angela Gorall, Deputy City Administrator, City of Woodbury, MN, 651-714-3529 (o)
Chad Weinstein, Facilitator, Ethical Leaders in Action, Minneapolis, MN, 612-338-6828 (c)
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Source: Village of Sister Bay website. First collected Oct 10, 2026.