Human Services Board Budget Meeting on Thursday, June 25, at 4 p.m. An in-person and remote hearing and meeting will originate in the County Board Room of the Bayfield County Courthouse.

K:Agendas & Minutes/DHS Board/Agendas/2026 DHS Board Agendas/2026-06-25 DHS Board Info FROM: Tom Croteau, Director DATE: June 17, 2026 RE: MEETING NOTICE The Bayfield County Department of Human Services Board will hold the regular monthly meeting on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. An in-person and remote hearing and meeting will originate in the County Board Room of the Bayfield County Courthouse, Washburn, Wisconsin. Remote participation is available via Microsoft Teams or by phone using the information below. Microsoft Teams meeting Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/288356678477793?p=nuu16DzsH5IF8EmkuF Meeting ID: 288 356 678 477 793 Passcode: mk7gk3DV Need help? | System reference Dial in by phone +1 715-318-2087,,441389948# United States, Eau Claire Find a local number Phone conference ID: 441 389 948# To join on your computer or mobile app, please ‘Control’ + Click the link or left click and choose ‘Open Hyperlink” to connect. Notice is hereby given that in the event the standing committee does not have a quorum the County Board Chair or Vice Chair may act as an ex officio member (County ordinance, Chapter 3, section 2-3-1 (c)). Notice is hereby given that a majority of the Bayfield County Board may be present at the meeting to gather information about a subject over which they have decision-making responsibility. This constitutes a meeting of the Bayfield County Board pursuant to State ex rel. Badke v. Greendale Village Bd., 173 Wis. 2d 553, 494 N.W.2d 408(1993), and must be noticed as such, although the County Board will not take any formal action at this meeting. Any person wishing to attend who, because of a disability, requires special accommodation should contact the Department of Human Services at 715-373-6144, at least 24 hours before the scheduled meeting time, so appropriate arrangements can be made. The agenda: Call to Order, Welcome and Introductions, Review and Approval of the May 28, 2026, Meeting Minutes, Open the Floor for Public Hearing for Public Comment, Input on the 2027 DHS Department of Human Services 117 East Fifth Street P.O. Box 100 Washburn, WI 54891 - 0100 Telephone (715) 373 - (715 Fax 6144 - )373 - 6130 Email: baycodhs@bayfieldcounty.wi.gov K:Agendas & Minutes/DHS Board/Agendas/2026 DHS Board Agendas/2026-06-25 DHS Board Info Budget and/or Bayfield County’s Policies and Procedures for Equal Opportunity Employment, Service Delivery, and Language Access, Opportunity for Public Comment, Comments on the 2027 DHS Budget, and/or Comments Regarding Bayfield County’s Policies and Procedures for Equal Opportunity in Employment, Service Delivery, and Language Access, Review Any Written Comments, Program Presentation – Behavioral Health and Community Programs – An Introduction to the Behavioral Health Team, Monthly Section Reports, Monthly Reports, , Other (Informational Items), 2027 Budget Guidance, Close the Floor for Public Hearing for Public Comment, Input on the 2027 DHS Budget and/or Bayfield County’s Policies and Procedures for Equal Opportunity in Employment, Service Delivery, and Language Access, Future Meetings, Adjournment. c: County Board Chair County Board of Supervisors Post (bulletin boards and website) e-mailed: DES Ashland Health Department DCS, Rhinelander New Day Shelter Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources, Inc. Daily Press Department of Human Services 117 East Fifth Street P.O. Box 100 Washburn, WI 54891-0100 Telephone (715) 373-6144 Fax (715-)373-6130 Email: baycodhs@bayfieldcounty.wi.gov Department of Human Services Board Meeting June 25, 2026 James Crandall - Chair Marty Milanowski -Vice Chair Jamie Tucker Susan Rosa Jeremy Oswald-Citizen Member Amy Nigbor-Citizen Member Jeff Holte Donna Lundin– Citizen Member Teri Hanson-Citizen Member RE: June 25, 2026, Department of Human Services Board Meeting, Notice is hereby given that in the event the standing committee does not have a quorum the County Board Chair or Vice Chair may act as an ex officio member (County ordinance, Chapter 3, section 2-3-1 (c)). Notice is hereby given that a majority of the Bayfield County Board may be present at the meeting to gather information about a subject over which they have decision-making responsibility. This constitutes a meeting of the Bayfield County Board pursuant to State ex rel. Badke v. Greendale Village Bd., 173 Wis. 2d 553, 494 N.W.2d 408(1993), and must be noticed as such, although the County Board will not take any formal action at this meeting. Dear Committee Members: Please be advised that the monthly meeting of the Bayfield County Department of Human Services Board meeting will be held on Thursday, June 25 , 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Remote connectivity is available. The meeting will originate from the County Board Room of the Bayfield County Courthouse, Washburn, Wisconsin. Remote participation is available via Microsoft Teams or by phone using the information listed on the next page. ________________________________________________________________________________ Microsoft Teams meeting Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/288356678477793?p=nuu16DzsH5IF8EmkuF Meeting ID: 288 356 678 477 793 Passcode: mk7gk3DV Need help? | System reference Dial in by phone +1 715-318-2087,,441389948# United States, Eau Claire Find a local number Phone conference ID: 441 389 948# Any person wishing to attend who, because of a disability, requires special accommodation, should contact the Department of Human Services at 715 -373-6144 at least 24 hours before the scheduled meeting time, so appropriate arrangement can be made. The agenda for this meeting is as follows: AGENDA 1. Call to Order 2. Welcome and Introductions 3. Discussion and Possible Action – Review and Approval of the May 28, 2026, Meeting Minutes 4. Action – Open the Floor for Public Hearing for Public Comment, Input on the 2027 DHS Budget and/or Bayfield County’s Policies and Procedures for Equal Opportunity in Employment, Service Delivery, and Language Access 5. Opportunity for Public Comment, Comments on the 2027 DHS Budget, and/or Comments Regarding Bayfield County’s Policies and Procedures for Equal Opportunity in Employment, Service Delivery, and Language Access (Limit 3 minutes please.) 6. Review Any Written Comments 7. Program Presentation – Behavioral Health and Community Programs- An Introduction to the Behavioral Health Team 8. Monthly Section Reports A. Family Services – Hayley Weyers B. Support Services – Stephanie Eder C. Aging & Disability Services – Brynna Watters-Moffitt D. Economic Support Services – Jeanine Spuhler E. Behavioral Health and Community Programs – Jo Beth Gonzalez 9. Monthly Reports A. Financial B. Training 10. Other (Informational Items) • Staff appreciation email- Aaron Kalmon 11. 2027 Budget Guidance - Preparation Memo to Department Heads from County Administrator Mark Abeles-Allison, May 29, 2026 12. Action – Close the Floor for Public Hearing for Public Comment, Input on the 2027 DHS Budget and/or Bayfield County’s Policies and Procedures for Equal Opportunity in Employment, Service Delivery, and Language Access 13. 2026 Meeting Dates A. August 4, 2025 (July/August meeting) B. September 24, 2026 C. October 22, 2026 D. December 1, 2026 (November/December meeting) 14. Discussion and Possible Action - Motion or Chair’s Statement to Adjourn Thank you and have a safe trip home! Sincerely, Thomas R. Croteau Thomas R. Croteau, Director c: Mr. Mark Abeles Allison, County Administrator Bayfield County Board of Supervisors Bayfield County Department of Human Services Board Bayfield County Department of Human Services Managers Lynn Divine, Bayfield County Clerk Email to: Other Interested Parties Requesting K:\Agendas and Minutes\DHS Board\Agendas\2026 DHS Board Agendas\2026-06-25 DHS Board Info\MEETING AGENDA – 6 25 2026.docx K:\Agendas and Minutes\DHS Board\Minutes\2026 DHS Board Minutes\2026-05-28\DHS Board Minutes 5-28-26 - DRAFT 1 BAYFIELD COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES BOARD MEETING EOC and Virtual Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 4 p.m. Committee Members Present: Jim Crandall, Jeff Holte, Donna Lundin, Marty Milanowski, Amy Nigbor, Sue Rosa, Jamie Tucker Members Not Present: Teri Hanson, Jeremy Oswald Others Present: Tom Croteau, Stephanie Eder, Jo Beth Gonzalez, Christopher O’Dell, Jeanine Spuhler, Brynna Watters-Moffitt, Hayley Weyers Call to order: Crandall called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. Welcome and Introductions: Introductions were made. Public Comment: There were no public comments. Discussion and Possible Action: Review and Approval for the April 23, 2026, Meeting Minutes Program Presentation: Children’s Long-Term Support (CLTS) Program Overview by Hayley Weyers  Weyers provided a presentation to the board, providing handouts (links to handouts are included). o The Wisconsin Children’s Long-Term Support (CLTS) Program is a Medicaid- funded program that helps children with disabilities and their families live, grow, and thrive at home and in their communities. o As a home and community-based waiver program, CLTS allows Wisconsin to use Medicaid funds for a wide range of supports not typically covered. The goal is simple: to help children remain in their homes rather than in institutional settings, while supporting their individual needs and family goals. o Children and youth under age 22 may be eligible if they have developmental, physical, or emotional disabilities and meet functional and financial criteria. o One of the handouts introduces functional eligibility screening process, to help families understand what kinds of questions will be asked about their child. The activities of daily living, like eating, mobility, and communication, are a big part of this. (Handout P-03061 https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/library/collection/p- 03061) o At the heart of CLTS is a team-based, family-centered approach. Families partner Draft minutes are subject to change before approval at the next DHS Board meeting. Motion by Milanowski, seconded by Rosa, to approve April 23, 2026, meeting minutes. All in favor. Motion passed. K:\Agendas and Minutes\DHS Board\Minutes\2026 DHS Board Minutes\2026-05-28\DHS Board Minutes 5-28-26 - DRAFT 2 with their local county agency and a Support and Service Coordinator (SSC), who help guide the process—from application through service planning and connection. Families bring expertise about their child, while SSCs provide knowledge of CLTS policy and available support. Together, they make decisions using Wisconsin’s “Deciding Together” approach. Deciding Together keeps service planning focused on a child’s outcomes, and what they need to live their best lives. (Handout P-02246 https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/library/collection/p- 02246) o Services are individualized and flexible, based on each child’s strengths, needs, and goals. A key strength of CLTS is continuous enrollment, which allows children to begin receiving services as soon as they are found eligible—helping families access support without long waits. There are many different services available in CLTS, which are summarized in 5 main categories: Support Services, Teaching and Skills Development, Management and Coordination, Physical Aids, and Housing Related Services. (Handout P-02570 https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/library/collection/p-02570) o CLTS focuses on what matters most:  Supporting children to be part of their families and communities  Building independence and life skills  Helping families care for their children at home o Through the Bureau of Children’s Services, which manages CLTS at the state level, there is also a quarterly newsletter that is sent to all families connected to CLTS. It helps keep everyone updated to major changes and even offers stories and successes in CLTS from across the state. (Handout All in for Kids Spring 2026 https://share.google/jd99NC3vXEn66t2Qh) o Through strong partnerships between families, counties, providers, and the state, CLTS works to ensure every child has the opportunity to live their best life in Wisconsin.  Holte asked how children are referred to the program. Weyers explained there are many ways, such as family members, other county or community programs, medical providers, etc.  Rosa asked to what extent family caregivers are supported. Weyers answered that there are some services that are primarily for caregivers that can provide training and resources to help them support their child. They are offered respite opportunities to provide a break.  Rosa asked if these are taken advantage of. Weyers stated she does not believe they are because it is difficult to find respite workers in Bayfield County.  Milwanowski asked where the children go after they age out of the program. Weyers explained that when they turn 18, they can be transferred to the ADRC if they qualify. If they do not qualify, they will still provide support until they turn 22, which is the cut- off age.  Crandall asked what the average cost is, and if there are those that would be considered “high-costs.” Weyers was no sure of the average range, but she stated that about half would be considered “high-cost.”  Croteau asked Weyers to give some examples of things that are provided to the children. Weyers explained there could be accessibility features added to homes, adaptive equipment, or even going to summer camp. K:\Agendas and Minutes\DHS Board\Minutes\2026 DHS Board Minutes\2026-05-28\DHS Board Minutes 5-28-26 - DRAFT 3  Crandall asked who determines eligibility. Weyers explained there is a functional screening process that determines if they meet the criteria.  Crandall asked how fraud within the program is dealt with. Weyers stated there are quarterly teleconferences and counties are instructed on how to spot and report fraud.  Nigbor asked how many people in the CLTS unit are functional screeners. Weyers answered that all four of the CLTS workers are and there are four in the CCS program who are also able to provide the screenings.  Crandall asked how long the program has been in existence. Weyers stated she believes approximately 20 years. Monthly Section Report: Support Services-Stephanie Eder:  Eder stated that Support Services is busy, as always. They are preparing for the yearly audit. The first is on June 17, and the second part will be in July.  They are preparing to work on the Annual Report.  Wisconsin Medicaid cost reporting has started.  Reconciliation of CLTS, B-3, and CCOP is completed.  We are currently accepting bids for the budget. Aging and Disability Services-Brynna Watters-Moffitt:  Watters-Moffitt announced they are working with Public Health to plan a senior empowerment day on June 18 from 9:30 to 2. There will be presentations on multiple topics and a demonstration for Tai Ji Quan. They are also hoping to provide a free luncheon and a Q&A for presenters and vendors.  Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15. They will be putting out pinwheels on the front lawn of Washburn City Hall. Each pinwheel represents an APS investigation. There are 116 this year.  Watters-Moffitt stated that the APS workers and ADRC workers are overwhelmed with continuous referrals. She stated there might be a need for more workers for those areas.  Watters-Moffitt announced there will be an ADRC-N meeting on June 3. The ADRC-N will be closed so that all staff can attend.  Rosa asked if the rise in APS cases is related to the lack of caregivers. Watters- Moffitt stated it might be part of the issue, but it is not the main cause. She continued that it is mostly due to self-neglect and the fear that APS will remove them from their homes.  Milanowski asked how a new hire is funded. Croteau responded that it will mostly be by county levy. Croteau and Watters-Moffitt explained that while the services they provide are mandated, the number of workers to cover these areas is not.  Nigbor stated that it has been her experience that Summer is a busy time because families come to visit and realize there is a need for APS involvement. Watters-Moffitt added that holidays are also a busy time. K:\Agendas and Minutes\DHS Board\Minutes\2026 DHS Board Minutes\2026-05-28\DHS Board Minutes 5-28-26 - DRAFT 4 Economic Support Services-Jeanine Spuhler:  Spuhler stated Economic Support staff stayed busy this month continuing to provide support to households while also working on consortium initiatives and planning for upcoming program changes.  Some highlights from this month include: o Staff attended the Northern Income Maintenance Consortium all-staff meeting. During the meeting, Aaron Kalmon was recognized for the outstanding work he has been doing in his Lead Worker role for the consortium. o Two staff members volunteered to work overtime this month to help manage workload demands and keep customer service moving smoothly. o The consortium recently received positive findings from the Management Evaluation Review (MER), which is completed to ensure compliance with FoodShare program requirements. The review team recognized the consortium for strong customer service and program accuracy. We appreciate the feedback received during the review and continue to look for ways to strengthen and improve program delivery. o The Northern Income Maintenance Consortium is also gauging interest from staff for upcoming Quality Assurance Agent positions funded through Act 116 and required by DHS. These positions focus on completing detailed FoodShare and precertification case reviews, identifying errors, and providing feedback to staff to help strengthen accuracy and consistency across the consortium. These are very analytical positions and provide a great opportunity within our region. If someone from our section is selected for one of these roles, we will need to look at backfilling their current position. o I completed the final Program Services reviews for Program Year 2026 (PY26) Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP). Final year- end numbers are still being finalized. o WHEAP applications continue to be processed through both Energy Services Inc. (ESI) and County staff. County processing reflected a 1% caseload increase compared to a 37% decrease for ESI. Overall, the program is currently down 5% from last year, compared to a statewide decrease of 13%. Red Cliff caseloads are down 9%. o Planning is already underway for PY27, including County processing of online applications. An additional worker is also being trained in the Energy Assistance program to help strengthen staffing coverage and program continuity. o Work has also started on collecting and compiling the data needed for the 2025 annual report.  Spuhler provided a breakdown of the WHEAP households assisted: o Total Households Applied for Energy Assistance: 691 o Total Households Paid for Energy Assistance: 615 o Total Households Paid a Crisis Benefit: 115 o Total Households Paid an HVAC Benefit: 70 o Total Households Paid a Water Conservation Benefit: 7 K:\Agendas and Minutes\DHS Board\Minutes\2026 DHS Board Minutes\2026-05-28\DHS Board Minutes 5-28-26 - DRAFT 5  Rosa asked what accounts for the statewide drop. Spuhler stated it is believed to be, in part, due to non-citizens or households with non-citizens choosing not to apply. Behavioral Health and Community Program-Jo Beth Gonzalez:  Gonzalez stated that two months into her position as Behavior Health and Community Programs Manager, she continues to deepen her understanding of the complexities surrounding behavioral health, mental health, substance abuse, and coordination with community providers. At the same time her previous parallel experience in related systems has helped provide important context and a broader perspective.  Gonzalez discussed the 988 Crisis Line, stating that Senator Baldwin is working hard to restore funding for it, and she is reaching out because we are looking for statements to help justify the funding, and/or stories that highlight the importance of it. She further discussed how often the Crisis Line was used by Bayfield County Residents.  Gonzalez discussed the Regional Crisis Line, which is provided by Family Services of Northeast Wisconsin and how many times it was utilized by Bayfield County Residents.  Some helplines that might be useful: o 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Everyone may call or text 988 or chat at http://www.988lifeline.org to speak with a trained counselor for any issue. o Veterans Crisis Line – Veterans and their families may call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat at http://www.veteranscrisisline.net to speak with a trained counselor for any issue. o HOPELINE – Everyone may text HOPELINE to 741741 to connect with a trained counselor for any issue. o Farmer Wellness Helpline – Wisconsin farmers may call 888-843-4564 to connect with a trained counselor for any issue. o The Trevor Project – LGBTQ young people may call 866-488-7386, text START to 678-678, or chat at http://www.thetrevorproject.org to speak with a trained counselor at any time. o Disaster Distress Helpline – Everyone may call or text 800-985-5990 to connect with a trained counselor about stress caused by natural or human-caused disasters.  Gonzalez discussed Behavior Health Workers: o Settlement and Commitments remain steady-days vary o Voluntary outreach, check in and follow up. o Connection to resources, referrals, treatment as well BH/MH/SUD. o Great resource and support for our staff o CCS Service Array Staff o Also involved in FS and assist in OC, YJ/CPS case management  Gonzalez discussed CCS: o Four Service Facilitators (carry ~15 participant case load), one Mental Health Professional-clinical aspects and supervision o Met for our weekly staffing meeting as we continue coordinating participant care and program needs. K:\Agendas and Minutes\DHS Board\Minutes\2026 DHS Board Minutes\2026-05-28\DHS Board Minutes 5-28-26 - DRAFT 6 o The program is currently holding relatively steady at approximately 60 participants, with some natural ebb and flow, and we currently have 11 incoming referrals. (two upcoming discharges due to out-of-county moves) o We continue to evaluate staff caseloads and discuss the appropriate timing for adding an additional Service Facilitator position to support program growth and participant needs. o Contracted providers assisting with the service array also continue to remain steady, allowing for increased participant choice in rehabilitative services and supports. o Vanessa Sowl shared in a follow up comprehensive assessment for a youth that has been working with the program for a while how they know they will be ready for discharge: “I would probably feel good to know that I had people to help me along the way."  Gonzalez discussed the partnership with Avel: o Red Cliff Police Department (RCPD) expressed interest in partnership and utilization of this service for their interaction and work with the community. o In process of working that out and development of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Sheriff Department and RCPD. o Hoping to meet with both as we follow up with this soon. o Avel continues to be a valuable support tool assisting law enforcement and crisis response efforts in the field.  Gonzalez discussed the collaboration with Sawyer County for the county certification process.  Gonzalez stated that CSP has 12 contracted slots, which are full at this time. There are two participants who are likely to be discharged due to relocation.  Rosa asked if there are a proportionate number of clients who reside in the southern part of Bayfield County. Gonzalez and Croteau stated that all parts of the county are represented.  Crandall asked about program changes between different counties. Gonzalez stated that for CCS, there are some differences between counties. However, there are ways to help with those transitions. Family Services-Hayley Weyers:  Weyers provided the following Family Services updates: o Continuing to implement the section’s restructuring across Child Welfare Programs. o Supervisors Melissa Berthiume (CPS County Lead) and Brittany Anderson (YJ County Lead) are settling into their new responsibilities, in addition to their existing duties within the section o Weyers is beginning to build her own foundation in the Child Welfare world. Including meeting with JoBeth Gonzalez week for ongoing mentorship and knowledge sharing. Also starting her first round of WiLearn training June 1. K:\Agendas and Minutes\DHS Board\Minutes\2026 DHS Board Minutes\2026-05-28\DHS Board Minutes 5-28-26 - DRAFT 7 o Becky Benton in Youth Justice is trying to work through the transition planning process with a few families whose youth have been placed in institutional settings for many months, sometimes years. o Elaina Majetich continues to bridge Social Worker Aid duties as well as Family Specialist. She’s also getting a couple of trainings: 1) to be a certified car seat technician for the county and 2) in additional formal strategies in providing real-time ongoing parent coaching type of services. o Elaina and Brittany also held the annual foster care appreciation luncheon on Saturday, May 23. o Children’s Long-Term Support (CLTS) is working through four referrals, in addition to our current 62 enrolled, case managed by the current team of Alice Wilson, Sierra Pugh, and Michelle Arganbright. o Next week, for CLTS our county will attend a hearing with an administrative law judge. This part of a parent exercising their right to appeal a decision was made. Families always have the right to appeal. As a smaller county, we don’t work through this process as often as larger counties, but appeals hearings are essentially always occurring across the state. o CLTS had an extremely successful annual file review this spring. Final results will be issued tomorrow, but initials results were already a glowing 91.6%, showing excellent compliance with program requirements. o Birth to 3 is known for being a beast when it comes to billing Medicaid and other insurance. But Ann Ehler, Technology Clerk, found a helpful breakthrough to streamline some of it, which made our contracted Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, and Speech Therapist very happy as well. o For vacancies and hires, Ivy Ray will be coming to join the section June 15th as our full-time CPS case manager. Remaining vacancies are a full- time CLTS case manager, and a part-time social worker aide.  Rosa was interested in learning more about the Foster Care Program. Croteau suggested setting up a meeting with Anderson to discuss this program. Monthly Reports: Financial: The board reviewed the financial reports and budgets. Training: The board reviewed the overnight training. K:\Agendas and Minutes\DHS Board\Minutes\2026 DHS Board Minutes\2026-05-28\DHS Board Minutes 5-28-26 - DRAFT 8 Discussion and Possible Action: Consider Proposed Committee Recommendation to Appoint Jacqueline Rae-Ledin to the Aging and Disability Advisory Committee. Discussion and Possible Action: Consider Proposed Committee Recommendation to Appoint Carol Radtke, Marilyn Jenkins, and Sandy Galer to the Nutrition Advisory Committee. Other (Information Items): Staff appreciation email-Vanessa (Ness) Pierce  Gonzalez discussed this with the board. 2026 Meeting Dates: June 25, 2026 (Public Hearing) August 4, 2026 (July/August meeting) September 24, 2026 Adjournment: Crandall adjourned the meeting at 5:26 p.m. Minutes respectfully submitted by Christopher O’Dell Milanowski made a motion to appoint Jacqueline Rae-Ledin to the Aging and Disability Advisory Committee. Rosa seconded the motion. No discussion. All in favor. Motion passed. Rosa made a motion to appoint Carol Radtke, Marilyn Jenkins, and Sandy Galer to the Nutrition Advisory Committee. Holte seconded the motion. No discussion. All in favor. Motion passed. (715) 373-6144 Phone/TDD • (715) 373-6130 FAX • www.bayfieldcounty.org • baycodhs@bayfieldcounty.org Department of Human Services 117 East Fifth Street P.O. Box 100 Washburn, WI 54891-0100 June 19, 2026 The Honorable Tammy Baldwin U.S. Senate 141 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Baldwin, As the Senate begins negotiations in earnest on a 2026 Farm Bill, I am writing on behalf of Bayfield County to respectfully seek your support for a delay in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) administrative and benefit cost shifts enacted H.R. 1. (P.L. 119-21). Extending this relief to all states, including Wisconsin, will ensure Bayfield County has the time needed to properly implement major changes to the SNAP program without compromising program integrity or access to food assistance for vulnerable families. SNAP provides critical nutrition assistance to 1,403 Bayfield County residents, including children, the elderly and people with disabilities. As a state-supervised, county-administered state, it is Bayfield County’s responsibility to implement the many eligibility and paperwork verification requirement changes made to SNAP under H.R. 1. These changes are projected to impact nearly 90,000 participants statewide and create additional costs for the county eligibility workforce related to technology upgrades, training, outreach and staffing. At the same time, H.R. 1 ties new benefit cost-sharing requirements in SNAP (effective beginning FY 2028) to Payment Error Rates (PERs) during a period when county human services agencies are simultaneously implementing these major policy changes. With a 4.47 percent PER for FY 2024, Wisconsin is on track to shoulder 0 percent of the state’s total SNAP benefits. However, if the error rate rises and triggers penalties, Wisconsin would shoulder 5 percent to 15 percent of the total SNAP benefits. This could cost Wisconsin taxpayers an estimated $207 million annually. Improving payment accuracy requires time, staffing, training, and system investments. However, resources for these changes will only grow more limited: beginning October 2026, H.R. 1 reduces the federal government’s share of SNAP administrative costs from 50 percent to 25 percent. These cost shifts threaten to destabilize Bayfield County’s budget, forcing reductions in staffing and delaying critical nutrition assistance for vulnerable residents. Bayfield County is committed to operating a strong and accurate SNAP program. However, we need sufficient time to improve SNAP payment accuracy before new cost obligations are triggered. Under current law, poorer-performing states will have two additional years to lower their SNAP error rates. We urge you to ensure that at a minimum, a bipartisan Farm Bill extends this delay to all states, treating SNAP agencies equally while providing the necessary time to invest in the staffing, training, and technology needed to sustainably reduce PERs. We welcome the opportunity to work with you to strengthen SNAP, achieve better outcomes for residents and maximize the efficiency of taxpayer dollars through our intergovernmental partnership. Sincerely, (Your name) (Your title) (Your county agencyname) (715) 373-6144 Phone/TDD • (715) 373-6130 FAX • www.bayfieldcounty.org • baycodhs@bayfieldcounty.org Department of Human Services 117 East Fifth Street P.O. Box 100 Washburn, WI 54891-0100 June 19, 2026 The Honorable Ron Johnson U.S. Senate 328 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Johnson, As the Senate begins negotiations in earnest on a 2026 Farm Bill, I am writing on behalf of Bayfield County to respectfully seek your support for a delay in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) administrative and benefit cost shifts enacted H.R. 1. (P.L. 119-21). Extending this relief to all states, including Wisconsin, will ensure Bayfield County has the time needed to properly implement major changes to the SNAP program without compromising program integrity or access to food assistance for vulnerable families. SNAP provides critical nutrition assistance to 1,403 Bayfield County residents, including children, the elderly and people with disabilities. As a state-supervised, county-administered state, it is Bayfield County’s responsibility to implement the many eligibility and paperwork verification requirement changes made to SNAP under H.R. 1. These changes are projected to impact nearly 90,000 participants statewide and create additional costs for the county eligibility workforce related to technology upgrades, training, outreach and staffing. At the same time, H.R. 1 ties new benefit cost-sharing requirements in SNAP (effective beginning FY 2028) to Payment Error Rates (PERs) during a period when county human services agencies are simultaneously implementing these major policy changes. With a 4.47 percent PER for FY 2024, Wisconsin is on track to shoulder 0 percent of the state’s total SNAP benefits. However, if the error rate rises and triggers penalties, Wisconsin would shoulder 5 percent to 15 percent of the total SNAP benefits. This could cost Wisconsin taxpayers an estimated $207 million annually. Improving payment accuracy requires time, staffing, training, and system investments. However, resources for these changes will only grow more limited: beginning October 2026, H.R. 1 reduces the federal government’s share of SNAP administrative costs from 50 percent to 25 percent. These cost shifts threaten to destabilize Bayfield County’s budget, forcing reductions in staffing and delaying critical nutrition assistance for vulnerable residents. Bayfield County is committed to operating a strong and accurate SNAP program. However, we need sufficient time to improve SNAP payment accuracy before new cost obligations are triggered. Under current law, poorer-performing states will have two additional years to lower their SNAP error rates. We urge you to ensure that at a minimum, a bipartisan Farm Bill extends this delay to all states, treating SNAP agencies equally while providing the necessary time to invest in the staffing, training, and technology needed to sustainably reduce PERs. We welcome the opportunity to work with you to strengthen SNAP, achieve better outcomes for residents and maximize the efficiency of taxpayer dollars through our intergovernmental partnership. Sincerely, (Your name) (Your title) (Your county agencyname) Monthly Board Report Through 05/31/26 Prior Fiscal Year Activity Included Summary Listing Adopted Budget Amended Current Month YTD YTD Budget - YTD % Used/ Organization Budget Amendments Budget Transactions Encumbrances Transactions Transactions Rec'd Prior Year YTD Fund 235 - Human Services REVENUE Department 50 - Human Services 4,564,753.00 .00 4,564,753.00 45,937.50 .00 2,088,710.49 2,476,042.51 46 2,415,601.08 Department 52 - AMSO .00 .00 .00 59.50 .00 199.36 (199.36) +++ 69.50 Department 53 - Family Services 328,944.00 .00 328,944.00 50,047.04 .00 161,145.99 167,798.01 49 168,289.09 Department 54 - Economic Support 663,729.00 .00 663,729.00 71,595.85 .00 184,395.96 479,333.04 28 172,286.46 Department 55 - Aging and Disabilities 5,100.00 .00 5,100.00 25.00 .00 95.00 5,005.00 2 3,622.45 Department 56 - GWAAR 352,161.00 .00 352,161.00 14,393.75 .00 145,652.49 206,508.51 41 222,848.58 Department 57 - DHS BHP 2,399,161.00 .00 2,399,161.00 147,522.28 .00 856,152.71 1,543,008.29 36 804,988.03 Department 58 - ADRC-Bayfield Co 122,677.00 .00 122,677.00 .00 .00 17,904.00 104,773.00 15 63,760.00 Department 59 - ADRC-North 181,821.00 .00 181,821.00 .00 .00 16,124.00 165,697.00 9 41,998.00 REVENUE TOTALS $8,618,346.00 $0.00 $8,618,346.00 $329,580.92 $0.00 $3,470,380.00 $5,147,966.00 40% $3,893,463.19 EXPENSE Department 47 - Behavioral Health & Community .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++ .00 Department 48 - Community Support Program (CSP) .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 +++ .00 Department 52 - AMSO 891,085.00 .00 891,085.00 84,973.78 .00 322,131.10 568,953.90 36 316,885.48 Department 53 - Family Services 2,911,546.00 .00 2,911,546.00 207,390.46 .00 835,196.20 2,076,349.80 29 1,150,266.98 Department 54 - Economic Support 606,039.00 .00 606,039.00 70,886.20 .00 244,132.62 361,906.38 40 227,452.00 Department 55 - Aging and Disabilities 527,452.00 .00 527,452.00 37,717.42 .00 314,192.91 213,259.09 60 404,807.40 Department 56 - GWAAR 859,878.00 .00 859,878.00 72,509.48 .00 288,943.35 570,934.65 34 309,059.99 Department 57 - DHS BHP 2,447,252.00 .00 2,447,252.00 342,014.13 .00 838,269.43 1,608,982.57 34 693,886.18 Department 58 - ADRC-Bayfield Co 193,817.00 .00 193,817.00 14,142.22 .00 56,333.36 137,483.64 29 55,059.54 Department 59 - ADRC-North 181,277.00 .00 181,277.00 16,573.27 .00 61,889.52 119,387.48 34 85,049.15 EXPENSE TOTALS $8,618,346.00 $0.00 $8,618,346.00 $846,206.96 $0.00 $2,961,088.49 $5,657,257.51 34% $3,242,466.72 Fund 235 - Human Services Totals REVENUE TOTALS 8,618,346.00 .00 8,618,346.00 329,580.92 .00 3,470,380.00 5,147,966.00 40% 3,893,463.19 EXPENSE TOTALS 8,618,346.00 .00 8,618,346.00 846,206.96 .00 2,961,088.49 5,657,257.51 34% 3,242,466.72 Fund 235 - Human Services Totals $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 ($516,626.04) $0.00 $509,291.51 ($509,291.51) $650,996.47 Grand Totals REVENUE TOTALS 8,618,346.00 .00 8,618,346.00 329,580.92 .00 3,470,380.00 5,147,966.00 40% 3,893,463.19 EXPENSE TOTALS 8,618,346.00 .00 8,618,346.00 846,206.96 .00 2,961,088.49 5,657,257.51 34% 3,242,466.72 Grand Totals $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 ($516,626.04) $0.00 $509,291.51 ($509,291.51) $650,996.47 Run by Stephanie Eder on 06/15/2026 09:56:01 AM Page 1 of 1 1 Tom Croteau From: Steve Budnik <Steve.Budnik@woodcountywi.gov> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 1:49 PM To: 'Ann Price'; Aaron Kalmon Cc: Tom Croteau; Jeanine Spuhler Subject: RE: QI Call Review **Action Required** Thank you for the kind words, Ann. NIMC is very lucky to have Aaron on our leadership team! Copying in Tom and Jeanine so they receive this awesome testimonial. Regards, Steve From: Ann Price <annprice@florencecountywi.gov> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 1:40 PM To: Aaron Kalmon <aaron.kalmon@bayfieldcounty.wi.gov> Cc: Steve Budnik <Steve.Budnik@woodcountywi.gov> Subject: RE: QI Call Review **Action Required** EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click any links or open any attachments unless you trust the sender and know the content is safe. Aaron, I really appreciate your reviews and the learning opportuniƟes that you are able to idenƟfy for our workers. Keep up the amazing work that you are doing!!!! Best, Ann Price BA, BSN, MPH Director Florence County Human Services 501 Lake Avenue, P.O. Box 225 Florence, WI 54121 715-528-3470 https://www.instagram.com/florence_county_hsd/ annprice@florencecountywi.gov The Helping Hands of Our Community 2 “ The future depends on what we do in the present." - Mahatma Gandhi This e-mail is intended for the exclusive use of the recipient (s) named above. It may contain information that is protected, privileged, or confidential, and it should not be disseminated, distributed, or copied to persons not authorized to receive such information. If you are not the intended recipient, any dissemination, distribution, or copying is strictly prohibited. If you think you have received this e-mail message in error, please notify the sender immediately. 715-373-6144 x3378, FAX 715-373-6146 Washburn, WI 54891 117 E. 5th St. / PO Box 100 Bayfield County Department of Human Services Northern IM Consortium Family Team Lead Economic Support Specialist Aaron Kalmon (He/Him/His) requested action has been completed. case (REDACTED) ; feel free to contact me with any questions. Please respond to this email when the completing the renewal since you reviewed the whole case with the member.I have attached a call review for Quick note: even though you notes this was an accidental duplicate renewal, I treated it as though you were Hi Susana, Subject: QI Call Review **Action Required** Cc: Ann Price < annprice@florencecountywi.gov > To: Susana Prott < sprott@florencecountywi.gov > Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 12:36 PM From: Aaron Kalmon < aaron.kalmon@bayfieldcounty.wi.gov > Bayfield County Administrator 117 E 5th Street, PO Box 878, Washburn, WI 54891 Ph: 715-373-6181 Fx: 715-373-6153 Mark Abeles-Allison, County Administrator Kelly Westlund, Deputy County Administrator Kristine Kavajecz, Human Resources Director Kim Mattson, Finance Director Gail Reha, Bookkeeper Ryan VanLanduyt, Energy Specialist Paige Terry, Clerk III Jaime Cadotte, Clerk II TO: Elected Officials, Department Heads and Office Staff involved with Budget FROM: Mark Abeles-Allison and Kelly Westlund DATE: May 29, 2026 RE: 2027 Bayfield County Budget Guide. Budget Submittal Due Date: August 13, 2026. The budget process for 2027 is underway. There are four key dates for budget submittals: • Personnel changes: Requests due June 25, 2026. Talk to Kris. • Information Technology Requests due July 17, 2026. Talk to Paul. • Capital Improvement Requests due July 30, 2026. Follow format below. • Operational Budget Requests due August 13, 2026. Several Notables: 1. The months of June and July are critical times for budget review. Here are several recommendations: • Include Budget on your June and July committee agendas. Ask staff and board members for input in advance. • Prepare background information on budget topics under consideration and include in the meeting packets in advance of the meetings. Review budget thoughts with your committee. • Start getting estimates for projects as early as possible. 2. The County Board Budget Priorities Survey addressed issues and departmental priorities. Two special issues received the most support from the County Board: o County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) o Housing Please include in your narrative how your department might assist with these two priority topics. 3. Artificial Intelligence (AI): Bayfield County IT and the AI Workgroup have worked on updated policies and procedures. Many departments are successfully using AI for data analysis, writing, idea consolidation, brainstorming and the list goes on. All department budgets should include an AI component in their 2027 budget, this could include education, software, etc. Budget Worksheets: The budget program in New World will be ready for 2027 entry by Friday, June 5. If you have questions, give Paige or Kim a call. Two budget / New World refresher sessions will be scheduled for budget input in late June and early July. Department Heads and/or a representative of the department are asked to attend one of the sessions. Dates will be sent out by Kris/Paige. Budget detail will be required as in the past for contractual, commodity and professional services line items. You will also need to include estimates of anticipated expenses for year-end 2026. Kim Mattson, Finance Director, will enter wages and benefits. If you feel adjustments are needed or want to review how estimates are calculated / assumptions made, please contact Kim directly. Please do not make any changes to wages and benefits. Kim will do this if needed. If you have retirements anticipated in 2027, please let Kim know. The BUDGET 2027 – Updated Account Coding Guidance document that was shared at the Department Head meeting relating to coding software, services and equipment expenses is included here. BUDGET DOCS & TEAMS Budget documents (narratives/Capital Improvement worksheets) are available through Teams. Please ask Paige if you need assistance. To access: 1) Open Teams. 2) Click on the chat icon on the left side of the screen, then select “Teams and Channels.” 3) Click on the “Budget” channel under the Bayfield County Employee Team. 4) Click on the “Shared” tab at the top of the screen. 5) Click the “Budget 2027” folder. 6) Click on the document you wish to work with. Make the changes you wish to make. Note that the changes are automatically saved as you enter them. There is no need to “save” or “save as”. 7) Be sure to right click on your narrative and rename it for 2027. This will be the indicator that you have updated the document. Capital Improvements: Use the Capital Improvement Worksheet in the Teams 2027 Budget folder. Please update your department’s information and make sure the document and data are saved in the Teams 2027 folder. Please also update the five-year capital planning sheet for your department. A separate Capital Improvement Detail sheet (attached) should be completed for each capital improvement item/project requested. This information is used by the County Administrator and Executive Committee in prioritizing funding for Capital Improvement projects. The Capital Improvement Detail Template is available in the 2027 Budget folder on Teams. Note: 2027 Capital Projects need to be included in the 430 (CIP Fund) section of the annual budget in New World as well. Fixed assets between $500 and $9999 will be coded in the 50815 account and tracked by DEPARTMENTS. Assets over $10,000 will be coded 50810. Grant-related budget questions should be directed to Kim Mattson. New Copiers and Vehicles: There are separate tabs at the end of the Capital Improvement 5-year Request Worksheet for you to list your anticipated needs for copiers or vehicles. These are budgeted separately from department-specific funds. Thank you. Budget 2027 – Updated Account Coding Guidance As we begin preparing for the 2027 budget, I want to share a quick overview of updated guidance for coding software, services, and equipment expenses. These clarifications will help ensure consistency across departments, reduce the need for corrections, and ensure correct financial reporting. If you have questions about specific expenses or need help determining the correct category, feel free to reach out. Software Subscriptions (#50320-100) Use this account for subscription‑based software, including annual, monthly, or multi‑year fees such as Microsoft Office, Zoom, Dropbox, NeoGov, antivirus, firewalls, and permitting systems. A helpful rule of thumb: if the program would no longer exist without paying the fee, use this. These items should no longer be charged to Contractual. Software Maintenance (#50397) Use this account only when the invoice is specifically for maintenance. In these cases, the software generally remains functional if unpaid but may become outdated without maintenance. Computer Software (#50343) Use this category for original software purchases, including installation or setup fees. Professional Services (#50210) This account applies to highly specialized, intellectual services typically requiring licensure or certification. Examples include consulting, market analysis, architecture, and engineering. Contractual (#50290) Use this account for expenses tied to legally enforceable agreements or service contracts. Examples include Pitney Bowes, Republic Services, hardware maintenance, BART fair shuttle, and septic services. Capital Equipment (#50810) Use this for assets valued at $10,000 or more, which will be tagged by the Bookkeeper. Non-Depreciated Assets (#50815) Use for assets between $500 and $10,000, tagged by the department. Wages & Benefits These sections will be completed by the Finance Director. Please notify me of any upcoming retirements that will require budgeting for payouts.