_06152026-2354
City of Delafield · Waukesha County · meeting of Jun 15, 2026 · Minutes
Open the original document More from City of Delafield
Text
Extracted automatically from the original. Tables and formatting may not survive; the original document is authoritative.
Common Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM
**CITY HALL COMMON COUNCIL CHAMBERS**
500 Genesee Street, Delafield, WI 53018
Mayor: Tim Aicher
Council President: Alderperson Dirk Wilken (D4)
Alderpersons: Danielle Henry (D1), Mark Schaefer (D2), Jackie Valde (D3), George Pavin (D5), Paul Price (D6), Stephen
Laughland (D7)
6/15/2026 - Minutes
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Roll Call
Alderpersons Present: Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken, Ald. D4;
George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Also present: Tim Aicher, Mayor; Tom Hafner, City Administrator/DPW Director; Jim Carroll, City Attorney; Molly
Schneider, City Clerk
Minutes
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes of the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting, the April
21, 2026, Organizational Meeting, and the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of the Minutes from the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the minutes from the April 21, 2026, Organizational Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 18, 2026 Regular Meeting.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes from the May 18, 2026, Regular Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Wilken and Pavin abstaining.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to approve the minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Valde abstaining.
City of Delafield Citizen Comments
Hearing no one who wished to speak, Citizen's Comments were closed.
Announcement of Matters for Possible Closed Session
Mayor Aicher announced the matters for possible Closed Session.
Motion to convene in Closed Session pursuant to the following provisions:
Motion to convene into closed session pursuant to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds, or
conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a
closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the City ’s labor
attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a successor agreement
between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of Delafield (current agreement
is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, at 7:04 PM, to convene into closed session pursuant
to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds,
or conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons
require a closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the
City’s labor attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a
successor agreement between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of
Delafield (current agreement is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Roll Call Vote:
AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Also present for the closed session were Mayor Aicher, Administrator Hafner, Attorney Carrol, Chief
Nyren, and Clerk Schneider.
Motion to re-convene into Open Session.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Henry, to re-convene into Open Session at 7:57 PM.
Roll Call Vote: AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding items discussed in Closed Session.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, that the bargaining committee for the Police contract negotiations
include Mayor Aicher, Alderperson Jackie Valde, and Alderperson Steve Michels, as well as
Administrator Hafner.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the consent agenda, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of Resolution 2026-10 regarding the City’s 2025 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report
(CMAR) submittal to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for the City ’s wastewater
collection system.
Boards, Committees, and Commission Reports
Licenses
Discussion and possible action regarding approval of an AB-105 Application for Kellermeister
Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest, sponsored by Divine
Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Schneider explained this was another AB-105 application for a Brewery to hold temporary retail
location at an event. The event is at Divine Redeemer on September 13, 2026.
Chad Ostram, was present to discuss the application.
Motion by Laughland, seconded by Henry, to approve the AB -105 application for
Kellermeister Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest,
sponsored by Divine Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin
Department of Revenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action to approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside
Dr., Delafield, WI 53018, which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C”
Wine License to allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51
(3m), with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application
corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that Hillside is now requesting a “ Class C” Wine License. requirements for a
Wine License have changed, which allows for more businesses to obtain a Wine License. This
business is no longer restricted by the requirement of having to have a minimum amount of gross
receipts be from food. Hillside already holds a Class “B” Beer license.
Michels asked if issuing this would cost a limited license. Schneider explained this was not a
license type that was restricted by a quota.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to
approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside Dr., Delafield, WI 53018,
which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C” Wine License to
allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51(3m), with
issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application corrections,
and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding the approval of granting the 2026-2027 Alcohol Beverage
Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of
application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that the renewals were all in, but there were issues with application forms being
completed correctly that are still being sorted out, as there are every year. Background checks are
in the hands of the Police Department, and staff runs a final report for outstanding debts prior to
issuing the licenses. Approval should be contingent upon these items, which are listed in the
agenda language.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to approve the granting the 2026 -2027 Alcohol
Beverage Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks,
completion of application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Plan Commission
Wilken reported the Plan Commission welcomed three new businesses and there were two Public Hearings
that were continued to the next month.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Following Items:
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue. Owner: Cedar Square III LLC. Applicant: John Barker,
501 Maple, LLC. Applicant requests approval of a Stormwater Maintenance Agreement to
accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Laughland, to approve the Stormwater Maintenance Agreement
to accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development, for the property located at
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Lake Welfare Committee
Price reported that the Lake Welfare Committee discussed stormwater runoff on the east side of the lake on
Lakewood Court. The Lake Welfare Committee would like to obtain easements to address the issue. Hafner
explained that there is a deep ravine that runs along Lakewood Court that serves as regional drainage but is
on private property. The property has become very unstable and when there is a rainfall event, significant
amounts of sediment end up in the lake. Not all adjacent property owners are interested in allowing an
easement.
Park & Recreation Commission/Tree Board
No meeting, no report.
Public Works Committee
Pavin reported that the Public Works Committee discussed the recommendations for the CTY HWY C bridge
project and determined that the St. Michael ’s entrance did not need to be reduced.
Del-Hart Commission
Aicher reported the officers were elected and the overall funcions of the plant are in good conditions.
Police Commission
No meeting, no report.
Library Board
Henry reported the Board discussed capitol planning for a Library expansion and will be asking for Council
support of the efforts in the future. The Summer programming is in full swing. The book sale is on Saturday
mornings.
June 2026 Library Director's Report
Zoning Board of Appeals
No meeting, no report.
Promotion & Tourism Commission
No meeting, no report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Commission
No report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Board
Michels reported the board met on May 20 th. A Chairman was appointed. The IMA was signed on June 3.
Budget meetings were set for August 19 th and September 9 th.
Deer Management Committee
The Deer Management Committee met on May 10.
Other Committees, Commissions, & Boards
Unfinished Business
Continuation of discussion of the draft City of Delafield Classification and Compensation Study and
possible action by the Council to provide direction to staff regarding any revisions to the draft study and
plan prior to its finalization for consideration of acceptance, approval, and/or adoption at a future
meeting.
Henry supported the report as a starting point. A subcommittee may be a good idea, and implementation
should be tied into the 2027 budget.
Michels agreed with Henry’s sentiment and also did not agree with moving to adopt the study as a whole.
Laughland echoed those sentiments.
Hafner asked about the thorough review and how that would be completed and how to see staff potentially
implement it into the budget.
Henry would like to understand in more detail how the plan was achieved.
Laughland noted that the study did not have any methodological foundation.
Aicher added that perhaps including some of the budgetary asks should be incorporated into the budget and
should go through the budgetary process. There were some HR items that might be helpful, such as the
establishment of grade levels for a hiring wage range and the hybrid approach for annual increases might be
beneficial.
Aicher suggested that staff might present the policy items separate from the budget items.
Henry appreciated the policy but still had questions about the numbers and where the goals came from.
Valde agreed and noted that the purpose was to address the turnover over the years; there are many
thoughtful observations, but a detailed conversation would be helpful. Valde has concerns about merit based
pay raises.
Henry asked about what is most important to the study in the opinion of the staff.
Hafner noted that even before the study was completed, he felt that the City pays employees well, but that the
City was deficient with two positions. The study reflected that observation. Getting to a competitive pay rate for
the deficient positions was extremely important. Additionally, implementing a merit component to increases is
important to encourage performance incentive.
Schneider stated that turnover is not as much an issue in the grand scheme of things, but there had been
conversations with regard to employees considering alternative employment opportunities. Having the
detailed information about the comparatives and being able to present the data that the City pays well is
helpful for retention and firing. Having the information and tools to continue to keep the and wages within a
competitive range going forward. The previous data was collected 20 years ago and did not present an
accurate base for the current market and hiring ranges. The step program and range is something that is
useful, even if the Council does not choose to adopt the exact proposed ranges presented. Schneider echoed
Hafner’s with regard to a preference for the merit component for wage increases.
Aicher asked about the possibility of policy standpoint and whether staff could present some action items.
Hafner stated that the Council has questions and feedback. Hafner suggested that Council could submit
questions in writing, and he and Schneider would welcome any questions. Alternatively, if Council would like a
Committee to meet with Hafner and Schneider to work through the perceived issues, Council could submit
concerns to the Committee representatives to ensure all questions and concerns are being addressed.
Laughland is not supportive of the report and did not feel that the comparatives based on salary were
appropriate. There are other important items that were not considered.
Aicher asked if there was a constructive wat to carry the conversation forward in a subcommittee or otherwise.
Henry would like to start with one meeting to go through the report in detail and see what the next course of
action may be.
Aicher asked the Council to submit questions to Administrator Hafner and Clerk Schneider to clarify the items
in question. The Council needs to commit to critiquing the report, asking questions, and making headway with
the report. A subcommittee could prolong the process and isn ’t really necessary to get questions or concerns
answered.
Hafner noted that he had a planned vacation and having items addressed by the next meeting may be a
challenge.
Aicher encouraged Council to submit questions, and schedules will be worked around. There are elements
that the City would be best served to implement, and the Council should work towards moving forward with this
within the next few months.
Discussion and direction to staff regarding various elements of the WisDOT Genesee Street/CTH“C”
Bridge Replacement Project currently scheduled for construction in 2029. Consideration of the following
Public Works Committee Recommendations:
l Recommend a shared 10 -foot protected multi -use path with a barrier wall on the east side of the
bridge only, instead of the dedicated bike accommodation and sidewalk on both the east and west
sides.
l Recommend a 10 -foot shared multi -use path be installed from Poplar Path to the bridge and from
the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5 -foot sidewalk.
l Recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall
for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent decorative finish on all sides, and
recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing I -41 20th Avenue Bridge in
Oshkosh.
l Recommend not staining or painting the decorative parapet walls due to maintenance issues, but
instead either keep the natural concrete color or use colored concrete.
l The city sailboat logo is low maintenance and is recommended.
l Concurrence with the Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
l Recommend including the “Highway C” name for the crossroad identification on the outside of the
parapet walls in both directions.
Hafner summarized that the Council had reviewed this the previous month and had asked the Public Works
Committee and Plan Commission to review the project and the Council design preferences. The Public Works
Committee reviewed the items and their recommendations were provided. If the Council can agree on
preferred directions, then the DOT can create a rendering and cost estimate, which can then can go to Plan
Commission for a recommendation back to Council.
Hafner reviewed the Public Works Committee recommendations. The Public Works Committee recommends
a 10-foot path to keep in line with the bike path plan. The DOT is supportive of this proposed path, which would
be a bit wider that Public Works Committee proposed. The barrier wall may not be a workable item. If there is
no barrier wall, the trail would be 16 ’ wide. With the barrier wall it would be 12 ’ wide.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Pavin, to move forward with the recommendation of the recreational trail
on the east side of the bridge.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended that the tie -in from Poplar Path and Indian
Spring Drive also be a 10 -foot multi use path.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Valde, to recommend a 10-foot shared multi-use path be installed from
Poplar Path to the bridge and from the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5-foot sidewalk.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended a consistent design on the inside and
outside of the bridge, and they also recommended a brick form liner as opposed to the Councils suggestion of
a fieldstone form liner. The design recommended is represented on the 20 th Avenue bridge in Oshkosh, which
was pictured in the meeting packet.
Michels asked about the blue hue in the picture under the stone design. Hafner noted the picture reference is
only regarding the stone design, and the bridge colors had not been discussed. At this time the elements
would be only concrete colored.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west
edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent
decorative finish on all sides, and recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing
I-41 20th Avenue Bridge in Oshkosh.
All in favor. Motion carried.
The Council had expressed a preference for some color elements in the design. Public Works Committee had
recommended against that due to maintenance issues, but instead recommended to either keep the natural
concrete color or use colored concrete.
Hafner explained that painting chips, but if the color were in the concrete, it would hold better. The color in the
concrete is an available option for a design element per the DOT.
Michels asked for a comparative example. Hafner suggested the HWY G bridge was the example related to
the color preference.
Henry suggested that color would not be necessary with the brick design, as that design adds depth. Wilken
concurred.
Hafner suggested perhaps requesting a rendering with color and without.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to get an example of color versus no color renderings.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner noted that the Public Works Committee concurred with the sailboat design element ad well as the
Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
The Public Works Committee recommended the Highway C name element based on the existing signage on
I-94.
Pavin added that the “City of Delafield ” could not be included on the bridge.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Valde, to recommend including the “Highway C” name for the bridge
signage and to include the logo.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Mayor's Report
Aicher reported that the Lake Country Fire & Rescue IMA Amendment signing was completed on June 3. There
was a Chamber Golf outing on June 5. Hawks Inn had their Rhubarb Fest on June 6, and a Heritage Hike occurred
in a joint effort with the American Legion, Hawks Inn and the Ice Age Trail.
Accept resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to
expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Aicher explained Hussinger is slowly transitioning towards retirement.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to accept
the resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to expire
04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Confirm appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield Building Inspector position vacated by
Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to confirm the appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield
Building Inspector position vacated by Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
New Business
Discussion and possible action regarding Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint Ronald J.
Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended by the
Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Hafner explained that Judge Kay had resigned. An interim judge had been assigned, but an appointment from
one of the member committees is required. A unanimous vote in support of Sonderhouse occurred and the
Administrative Committee. There must be unanimous decision by all municipalities.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to adopt Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint
Ronald J. Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended
by the Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Motion carried with Laughland abstaining.
Review of the 2025 City of Delafield Audit, including the Financial Statement Overview, Financial
Statements with Independent Auditor’s Report, and Required Audit Communications to the City Council,
as prepared by Johnson Block & Company.
Hafner reviewed the Audit documents provided in the ePacket. The budget surplus came in more than
expected and there was an actual budget surplus of $989,000. Thie equated to an additional $710,000
contribution to the fund balance. Hafner reviewed the items that resulted in the surplus. This puts the City in a
good financial situation with the ending of the ARPA funding and the referendum. The excess fund balance will
assist with the structural deficit projected.
Approval of Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of 5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of
5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Report of City Officials
City Administrator
Update regarding the June 9, 2026, Bids and Sale of City’s General Obligation Promissory Notes,
Series 2026A.
The bond sale occurred and the parameters were met. The interest rate came in at 3.2% and
included a premium which went into the debt service fund. Additianl information was provided in the
packet.
Amended Lake Country Fire & Rescue Intermunicipal Agreement has been finalized and was signed
by all seven member municipalities at ceremonial signing event held on June 3, 2026.
Hafner also noted the IMA amendment was finalized.
City Clerk
Schneider stated that absentee ballots would be mailed the following week and reminded residents to get their
applications in. Aicher asked if there was a preference for absentee voters versus in -person voters. Schneider
explained that ta balance between the two is preferred to prevent issues with bottlenecking with in -person
voting or absentee processing.
Welcome Kate Bach to the City of Delafield Clerk's Office Staff.
Schneider stated that the Clerk ’s Office had filled the vacant position. Kate Bach had started the
week prior, and she is learning quickly and fitting in well.
City Treasurer
April 2026 Treasurer's Report
Council Requests for Future Agenda Items
Price requested for the next meeting obtaining easements for the neighbors on Lakewood Court for the
purpose of maintaining a natural barricade in the future.
Correspondence
Adjournment
Having no further business, the June 16, 20 Common Council meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Molly Schneider, City Clerk
1.
2.
3.
4.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
5.
6.
A.
i.
B.
C.
7.
A.
8.
A.
i.
ii.
iii.
B.
i.
a.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
i.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
9.
A.
B.
10.
A.
B.
11.
A.
B.
C.
12.
A.
i.
ii.
B.
i.
C.
i.
D.
13.
14.
DRAFT
Common Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM
**CITY HALL COMMON COUNCIL CHAMBERS**
500 Genesee Street, Delafield, WI 53018
Mayor: Tim Aicher
Council President: Alderperson Dirk Wilken (D4)
Alderpersons: Danielle Henry (D1), Mark Schaefer (D2), Jackie Valde (D3), George Pavin (D5), Paul Price (D6), Stephen
Laughland (D7)
6/15/2026 - Minutes
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Roll Call
Alderpersons Present: Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken, Ald. D4;
George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Also present: Tim Aicher, Mayor; Tom Hafner, City Administrator/DPW Director; Jim Carroll, City Attorney; Molly
Schneider, City Clerk
Minutes
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes of the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting, the April
21, 2026, Organizational Meeting, and the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of the Minutes from the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the minutes from the April 21, 2026, Organizational Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 18, 2026 Regular Meeting.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes from the May 18, 2026, Regular Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Wilken and Pavin abstaining.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to approve the minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Valde abstaining.
City of Delafield Citizen Comments
Hearing no one who wished to speak, Citizen's Comments were closed.
Announcement of Matters for Possible Closed Session
Mayor Aicher announced the matters for possible Closed Session.
Motion to convene in Closed Session pursuant to the following provisions:
Motion to convene into closed session pursuant to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds, or
conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a
closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the City ’s labor
attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a successor agreement
between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of Delafield (current agreement
is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, at 7:04 PM, to convene into closed session pursuant
to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds,
or conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons
require a closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the
City’s labor attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a
successor agreement between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of
Delafield (current agreement is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Roll Call Vote:
AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Also present for the closed session were Mayor Aicher, Administrator Hafner, Attorney Carrol, Chief
Nyren, and Clerk Schneider.
Motion to re-convene into Open Session.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Henry, to re-convene into Open Session at 7:57 PM.
Roll Call Vote: AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding items discussed in Closed Session.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, that the bargaining committee for the Police contract negotiations
include Mayor Aicher, Alderperson Jackie Valde, and Alderperson Steve Michels, as well as
Administrator Hafner.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the consent agenda, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of Resolution 2026-10 regarding the City’s 2025 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report
(CMAR) submittal to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for the City ’s wastewater
collection system.
Boards, Committees, and Commission Reports
Licenses
Discussion and possible action regarding approval of an AB-105 Application for Kellermeister
Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest, sponsored by Divine
Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Schneider explained this was another AB-105 application for a Brewery to hold temporary retail
location at an event. The event is at Divine Redeemer on September 13, 2026.
Chad Ostram, was present to discuss the application.
Motion by Laughland, seconded by Henry, to approve the AB -105 application for
Kellermeister Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest,
sponsored by Divine Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin
Department of Revenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action to approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside
Dr., Delafield, WI 53018, which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C”
Wine License to allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51
(3m), with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application
corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that Hillside is now requesting a “ Class C” Wine License. requirements for a
Wine License have changed, which allows for more businesses to obtain a Wine License. This
business is no longer restricted by the requirement of having to have a minimum amount of gross
receipts be from food. Hillside already holds a Class “B” Beer license.
Michels asked if issuing this would cost a limited license. Schneider explained this was not a
license type that was restricted by a quota.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to
approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside Dr., Delafield, WI 53018,
which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C” Wine License to
allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51(3m), with
issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application corrections,
and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding the approval of granting the 2026-2027 Alcohol Beverage
Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of
application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that the renewals were all in, but there were issues with application forms being
completed correctly that are still being sorted out, as there are every year. Background checks are
in the hands of the Police Department, and staff runs a final report for outstanding debts prior to
issuing the licenses. Approval should be contingent upon these items, which are listed in the
agenda language.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to approve the granting the 2026 -2027 Alcohol
Beverage Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks,
completion of application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Plan Commission
Wilken reported the Plan Commission welcomed three new businesses and there were two Public Hearings
that were continued to the next month.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Following Items:
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue. Owner: Cedar Square III LLC. Applicant: John Barker,
501 Maple, LLC. Applicant requests approval of a Stormwater Maintenance Agreement to
accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Laughland, to approve the Stormwater Maintenance Agreement
to accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development, for the property located at
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Lake Welfare Committee
Price reported that the Lake Welfare Committee discussed stormwater runoff on the east side of the lake on
Lakewood Court. The Lake Welfare Committee would like to obtain easements to address the issue. Hafner
explained that there is a deep ravine that runs along Lakewood Court that serves as regional drainage but is
on private property. The property has become very unstable and when there is a rainfall event, significant
amounts of sediment end up in the lake. Not all adjacent property owners are interested in allowing an
easement.
Park & Recreation Commission/Tree Board
No meeting, no report.
Public Works Committee
Pavin reported that the Public Works Committee discussed the recommendations for the CTY HWY C bridge
project and determined that the St. Michael ’s entrance did not need to be reduced.
Del-Hart Commission
Aicher reported the officers were elected and the overall funcions of the plant are in good conditions.
Police Commission
No meeting, no report.
Library Board
Henry reported the Board discussed capitol planning for a Library expansion and will be asking for Council
support of the efforts in the future. The Summer programming is in full swing. The book sale is on Saturday
mornings.
June 2026 Library Director's Report
Zoning Board of Appeals
No meeting, no report.
Promotion & Tourism Commission
No meeting, no report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Commission
No report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Board
Michels reported the board met on May 20 th. A Chairman was appointed. The IMA was signed on June 3.
Budget meetings were set for August 19 th and September 9 th.
Deer Management Committee
The Deer Management Committee met on May 10.
Other Committees, Commissions, & Boards
Unfinished Business
Continuation of discussion of the draft City of Delafield Classification and Compensation Study and
possible action by the Council to provide direction to staff regarding any revisions to the draft study and
plan prior to its finalization for consideration of acceptance, approval, and/or adoption at a future
meeting.
Henry supported the report as a starting point. A subcommittee may be a good idea, and implementation
should be tied into the 2027 budget.
Michels agreed with Henry’s sentiment and also did not agree with moving to adopt the study as a whole.
Laughland echoed those sentiments.
Hafner asked about the thorough review and how that would be completed and how to see staff potentially
implement it into the budget.
Henry would like to understand in more detail how the plan was achieved.
Laughland noted that the study did not have any methodological foundation.
Aicher added that perhaps including some of the budgetary asks should be incorporated into the budget and
should go through the budgetary process. There were some HR items that might be helpful, such as the
establishment of grade levels for a hiring wage range and the hybrid approach for annual increases might be
beneficial.
Aicher suggested that staff might present the policy items separate from the budget items.
Henry appreciated the policy but still had questions about the numbers and where the goals came from.
Valde agreed and noted that the purpose was to address the turnover over the years; there are many
thoughtful observations, but a detailed conversation would be helpful. Valde has concerns about merit based
pay raises.
Henry asked about what is most important to the study in the opinion of the staff.
Hafner noted that even before the study was completed, he felt that the City pays employees well, but that the
City was deficient with two positions. The study reflected that observation. Getting to a competitive pay rate for
the deficient positions was extremely important. Additionally, implementing a merit component to increases is
important to encourage performance incentive.
Schneider stated that turnover is not as much an issue in the grand scheme of things, but there had been
conversations with regard to employees considering alternative employment opportunities. Having the
detailed information about the comparatives and being able to present the data that the City pays well is
helpful for retention and firing. Having the information and tools to continue to keep the and wages within a
competitive range going forward. The previous data was collected 20 years ago and did not present an
accurate base for the current market and hiring ranges. The step program and range is something that is
useful, even if the Council does not choose to adopt the exact proposed ranges presented. Schneider echoed
Hafner’s with regard to a preference for the merit component for wage increases.
Aicher asked about the possibility of policy standpoint and whether staff could present some action items.
Hafner stated that the Council has questions and feedback. Hafner suggested that Council could submit
questions in writing, and he and Schneider would welcome any questions. Alternatively, if Council would like a
Committee to meet with Hafner and Schneider to work through the perceived issues, Council could submit
concerns to the Committee representatives to ensure all questions and concerns are being addressed.
Laughland is not supportive of the report and did not feel that the comparatives based on salary were
appropriate. There are other important items that were not considered.
Aicher asked if there was a constructive wat to carry the conversation forward in a subcommittee or otherwise.
Henry would like to start with one meeting to go through the report in detail and see what the next course of
action may be.
Aicher asked the Council to submit questions to Administrator Hafner and Clerk Schneider to clarify the items
in question. The Council needs to commit to critiquing the report, asking questions, and making headway with
the report. A subcommittee could prolong the process and isn ’t really necessary to get questions or concerns
answered.
Hafner noted that he had a planned vacation and having items addressed by the next meeting may be a
challenge.
Aicher encouraged Council to submit questions, and schedules will be worked around. There are elements
that the City would be best served to implement, and the Council should work towards moving forward with this
within the next few months.
Discussion and direction to staff regarding various elements of the WisDOT Genesee Street/CTH“C”
Bridge Replacement Project currently scheduled for construction in 2029. Consideration of the following
Public Works Committee Recommendations:
l Recommend a shared 10 -foot protected multi -use path with a barrier wall on the east side of the
bridge only, instead of the dedicated bike accommodation and sidewalk on both the east and west
sides.
l Recommend a 10 -foot shared multi -use path be installed from Poplar Path to the bridge and from
the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5 -foot sidewalk.
l Recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall
for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent decorative finish on all sides, and
recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing I -41 20th Avenue Bridge in
Oshkosh.
l Recommend not staining or painting the decorative parapet walls due to maintenance issues, but
instead either keep the natural concrete color or use colored concrete.
l The city sailboat logo is low maintenance and is recommended.
l Concurrence with the Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
l Recommend including the “Highway C” name for the crossroad identification on the outside of the
parapet walls in both directions.
Hafner summarized that the Council had reviewed this the previous month and had asked the Public Works
Committee and Plan Commission to review the project and the Council design preferences. The Public Works
Committee reviewed the items and their recommendations were provided. If the Council can agree on
preferred directions, then the DOT can create a rendering and cost estimate, which can then can go to Plan
Commission for a recommendation back to Council.
Hafner reviewed the Public Works Committee recommendations. The Public Works Committee recommends
a 10-foot path to keep in line with the bike path plan. The DOT is supportive of this proposed path, which would
be a bit wider that Public Works Committee proposed. The barrier wall may not be a workable item. If there is
no barrier wall, the trail would be 16 ’ wide. With the barrier wall it would be 12 ’ wide.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Pavin, to move forward with the recommendation of the recreational trail
on the east side of the bridge.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended that the tie -in from Poplar Path and Indian
Spring Drive also be a 10 -foot multi use path.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Valde, to recommend a 10-foot shared multi-use path be installed from
Poplar Path to the bridge and from the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5-foot sidewalk.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended a consistent design on the inside and
outside of the bridge, and they also recommended a brick form liner as opposed to the Councils suggestion of
a fieldstone form liner. The design recommended is represented on the 20 th Avenue bridge in Oshkosh, which
was pictured in the meeting packet.
Michels asked about the blue hue in the picture under the stone design. Hafner noted the picture reference is
only regarding the stone design, and the bridge colors had not been discussed. At this time the elements
would be only concrete colored.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west
edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent
decorative finish on all sides, and recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing
I-41 20th Avenue Bridge in Oshkosh.
All in favor. Motion carried.
The Council had expressed a preference for some color elements in the design. Public Works Committee had
recommended against that due to maintenance issues, but instead recommended to either keep the natural
concrete color or use colored concrete.
Hafner explained that painting chips, but if the color were in the concrete, it would hold better. The color in the
concrete is an available option for a design element per the DOT.
Michels asked for a comparative example. Hafner suggested the HWY G bridge was the example related to
the color preference.
Henry suggested that color would not be necessary with the brick design, as that design adds depth. Wilken
concurred.
Hafner suggested perhaps requesting a rendering with color and without.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to get an example of color versus no color renderings.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner noted that the Public Works Committee concurred with the sailboat design element ad well as the
Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
The Public Works Committee recommended the Highway C name element based on the existing signage on
I-94.
Pavin added that the “City of Delafield ” could not be included on the bridge.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Valde, to recommend including the “Highway C” name for the bridge
signage and to include the logo.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Mayor's Report
Aicher reported that the Lake Country Fire & Rescue IMA Amendment signing was completed on June 3. There
was a Chamber Golf outing on June 5. Hawks Inn had their Rhubarb Fest on June 6, and a Heritage Hike occurred
in a joint effort with the American Legion, Hawks Inn and the Ice Age Trail.
Accept resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to
expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Aicher explained Hussinger is slowly transitioning towards retirement.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to accept
the resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to expire
04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Confirm appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield Building Inspector position vacated by
Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to confirm the appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield
Building Inspector position vacated by Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
New Business
Discussion and possible action regarding Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint Ronald J.
Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended by the
Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Hafner explained that Judge Kay had resigned. An interim judge had been assigned, but an appointment from
one of the member committees is required. A unanimous vote in support of Sonderhouse occurred and the
Administrative Committee. There must be unanimous decision by all municipalities.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to adopt Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint
Ronald J. Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended
by the Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Motion carried with Laughland abstaining.
Review of the 2025 City of Delafield Audit, including the Financial Statement Overview, Financial
Statements with Independent Auditor’s Report, and Required Audit Communications to the City Council,
as prepared by Johnson Block & Company.
Hafner reviewed the Audit documents provided in the ePacket. The budget surplus came in more than
expected and there was an actual budget surplus of $989,000. Thie equated to an additional $710,000
contribution to the fund balance. Hafner reviewed the items that resulted in the surplus. This puts the City in a
good financial situation with the ending of the ARPA funding and the referendum. The excess fund balance will
assist with the structural deficit projected.
Approval of Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of 5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of
5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Report of City Officials
City Administrator
Update regarding the June 9, 2026, Bids and Sale of City’s General Obligation Promissory Notes,
Series 2026A.
The bond sale occurred and the parameters were met. The interest rate came in at 3.2% and
included a premium which went into the debt service fund. Additianl information was provided in the
packet.
Amended Lake Country Fire & Rescue Intermunicipal Agreement has been finalized and was signed
by all seven member municipalities at ceremonial signing event held on June 3, 2026.
Hafner also noted the IMA amendment was finalized.
City Clerk
Schneider stated that absentee ballots would be mailed the following week and reminded residents to get their
applications in. Aicher asked if there was a preference for absentee voters versus in -person voters. Schneider
explained that ta balance between the two is preferred to prevent issues with bottlenecking with in -person
voting or absentee processing.
Welcome Kate Bach to the City of Delafield Clerk's Office Staff.
Schneider stated that the Clerk ’s Office had filled the vacant position. Kate Bach had started the
week prior, and she is learning quickly and fitting in well.
City Treasurer
April 2026 Treasurer's Report
Council Requests for Future Agenda Items
Price requested for the next meeting obtaining easements for the neighbors on Lakewood Court for the
purpose of maintaining a natural barricade in the future.
Correspondence
Adjournment
Having no further business, the June 16, 20 Common Council meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Molly Schneider, City Clerk
1.
2.
3.
4.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
5.
6.
A.
i.
B.
C.
7.
A.
8.
A.
i.
ii.
iii.
B.
i.
a.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
i.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
9.
A.
B.
10.
A.
B.
11.
A.
B.
C.
12.
A.
i.
ii.
B.
i.
C.
i.
D.
13.
14.
DRAFT
Common Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM
**CITY HALL COMMON COUNCIL CHAMBERS**
500 Genesee Street, Delafield, WI 53018
Mayor: Tim Aicher
Council President: Alderperson Dirk Wilken (D4)
Alderpersons: Danielle Henry (D1), Mark Schaefer (D2), Jackie Valde (D3), George Pavin (D5), Paul Price (D6), Stephen
Laughland (D7)
6/15/2026 - Minutes
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Roll Call
Alderpersons Present: Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken, Ald. D4;
George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Also present: Tim Aicher, Mayor; Tom Hafner, City Administrator/DPW Director; Jim Carroll, City Attorney; Molly
Schneider, City Clerk
Minutes
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes of the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting, the April
21, 2026, Organizational Meeting, and the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of the Minutes from the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the minutes from the April 21, 2026, Organizational Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 18, 2026 Regular Meeting.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes from the May 18, 2026, Regular Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Wilken and Pavin abstaining.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to approve the minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Valde abstaining.
City of Delafield Citizen Comments
Hearing no one who wished to speak, Citizen's Comments were closed.
Announcement of Matters for Possible Closed Session
Mayor Aicher announced the matters for possible Closed Session.
Motion to convene in Closed Session pursuant to the following provisions:
Motion to convene into closed session pursuant to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds, or
conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a
closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the City ’s labor
attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a successor agreement
between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of Delafield (current agreement
is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, at 7:04 PM, to convene into closed session pursuant
to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds,
or conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons
require a closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the
City’s labor attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a
successor agreement between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of
Delafield (current agreement is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Roll Call Vote:
AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Also present for the closed session were Mayor Aicher, Administrator Hafner, Attorney Carrol, Chief
Nyren, and Clerk Schneider.
Motion to re-convene into Open Session.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Henry, to re-convene into Open Session at 7:57 PM.
Roll Call Vote: AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding items discussed in Closed Session.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, that the bargaining committee for the Police contract negotiations
include Mayor Aicher, Alderperson Jackie Valde, and Alderperson Steve Michels, as well as
Administrator Hafner.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the consent agenda, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of Resolution 2026-10 regarding the City’s 2025 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report
(CMAR) submittal to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for the City ’s wastewater
collection system.
Boards, Committees, and Commission Reports
Licenses
Discussion and possible action regarding approval of an AB-105 Application for Kellermeister
Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest, sponsored by Divine
Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Schneider explained this was another AB-105 application for a Brewery to hold temporary retail
location at an event. The event is at Divine Redeemer on September 13, 2026.
Chad Ostram, was present to discuss the application.
Motion by Laughland, seconded by Henry, to approve the AB -105 application for
Kellermeister Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest,
sponsored by Divine Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin
Department of Revenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action to approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside
Dr., Delafield, WI 53018, which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C”
Wine License to allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51
(3m), with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application
corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that Hillside is now requesting a “ Class C” Wine License. requirements for a
Wine License have changed, which allows for more businesses to obtain a Wine License. This
business is no longer restricted by the requirement of having to have a minimum amount of gross
receipts be from food. Hillside already holds a Class “B” Beer license.
Michels asked if issuing this would cost a limited license. Schneider explained this was not a
license type that was restricted by a quota.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to
approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside Dr., Delafield, WI 53018,
which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C” Wine License to
allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51(3m), with
issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application corrections,
and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding the approval of granting the 2026-2027 Alcohol Beverage
Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of
application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that the renewals were all in, but there were issues with application forms being
completed correctly that are still being sorted out, as there are every year. Background checks are
in the hands of the Police Department, and staff runs a final report for outstanding debts prior to
issuing the licenses. Approval should be contingent upon these items, which are listed in the
agenda language.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to approve the granting the 2026 -2027 Alcohol
Beverage Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks,
completion of application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Plan Commission
Wilken reported the Plan Commission welcomed three new businesses and there were two Public Hearings
that were continued to the next month.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Following Items:
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue. Owner: Cedar Square III LLC. Applicant: John Barker,
501 Maple, LLC. Applicant requests approval of a Stormwater Maintenance Agreement to
accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Laughland, to approve the Stormwater Maintenance Agreement
to accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development, for the property located at
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Lake Welfare Committee
Price reported that the Lake Welfare Committee discussed stormwater runoff on the east side of the lake on
Lakewood Court. The Lake Welfare Committee would like to obtain easements to address the issue. Hafner
explained that there is a deep ravine that runs along Lakewood Court that serves as regional drainage but is
on private property. The property has become very unstable and when there is a rainfall event, significant
amounts of sediment end up in the lake. Not all adjacent property owners are interested in allowing an
easement.
Park & Recreation Commission/Tree Board
No meeting, no report.
Public Works Committee
Pavin reported that the Public Works Committee discussed the recommendations for the CTY HWY C bridge
project and determined that the St. Michael ’s entrance did not need to be reduced.
Del-Hart Commission
Aicher reported the officers were elected and the overall funcions of the plant are in good conditions.
Police Commission
No meeting, no report.
Library Board
Henry reported the Board discussed capitol planning for a Library expansion and will be asking for Council
support of the efforts in the future. The Summer programming is in full swing. The book sale is on Saturday
mornings.
June 2026 Library Director's Report
Zoning Board of Appeals
No meeting, no report.
Promotion & Tourism Commission
No meeting, no report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Commission
No report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Board
Michels reported the board met on May 20 th. A Chairman was appointed. The IMA was signed on June 3.
Budget meetings were set for August 19 th and September 9 th.
Deer Management Committee
The Deer Management Committee met on May 10.
Other Committees, Commissions, & Boards
Unfinished Business
Continuation of discussion of the draft City of Delafield Classification and Compensation Study and
possible action by the Council to provide direction to staff regarding any revisions to the draft study and
plan prior to its finalization for consideration of acceptance, approval, and/or adoption at a future
meeting.
Henry supported the report as a starting point. A subcommittee may be a good idea, and implementation
should be tied into the 2027 budget.
Michels agreed with Henry’s sentiment and also did not agree with moving to adopt the study as a whole.
Laughland echoed those sentiments.
Hafner asked about the thorough review and how that would be completed and how to see staff potentially
implement it into the budget.
Henry would like to understand in more detail how the plan was achieved.
Laughland noted that the study did not have any methodological foundation.
Aicher added that perhaps including some of the budgetary asks should be incorporated into the budget and
should go through the budgetary process. There were some HR items that might be helpful, such as the
establishment of grade levels for a hiring wage range and the hybrid approach for annual increases might be
beneficial.
Aicher suggested that staff might present the policy items separate from the budget items.
Henry appreciated the policy but still had questions about the numbers and where the goals came from.
Valde agreed and noted that the purpose was to address the turnover over the years; there are many
thoughtful observations, but a detailed conversation would be helpful. Valde has concerns about merit based
pay raises.
Henry asked about what is most important to the study in the opinion of the staff.
Hafner noted that even before the study was completed, he felt that the City pays employees well, but that the
City was deficient with two positions. The study reflected that observation. Getting to a competitive pay rate for
the deficient positions was extremely important. Additionally, implementing a merit component to increases is
important to encourage performance incentive.
Schneider stated that turnover is not as much an issue in the grand scheme of things, but there had been
conversations with regard to employees considering alternative employment opportunities. Having the
detailed information about the comparatives and being able to present the data that the City pays well is
helpful for retention and firing. Having the information and tools to continue to keep the and wages within a
competitive range going forward. The previous data was collected 20 years ago and did not present an
accurate base for the current market and hiring ranges. The step program and range is something that is
useful, even if the Council does not choose to adopt the exact proposed ranges presented. Schneider echoed
Hafner’s with regard to a preference for the merit component for wage increases.
Aicher asked about the possibility of policy standpoint and whether staff could present some action items.
Hafner stated that the Council has questions and feedback. Hafner suggested that Council could submit
questions in writing, and he and Schneider would welcome any questions. Alternatively, if Council would like a
Committee to meet with Hafner and Schneider to work through the perceived issues, Council could submit
concerns to the Committee representatives to ensure all questions and concerns are being addressed.
Laughland is not supportive of the report and did not feel that the comparatives based on salary were
appropriate. There are other important items that were not considered.
Aicher asked if there was a constructive wat to carry the conversation forward in a subcommittee or otherwise.
Henry would like to start with one meeting to go through the report in detail and see what the next course of
action may be.
Aicher asked the Council to submit questions to Administrator Hafner and Clerk Schneider to clarify the items
in question. The Council needs to commit to critiquing the report, asking questions, and making headway with
the report. A subcommittee could prolong the process and isn ’t really necessary to get questions or concerns
answered.
Hafner noted that he had a planned vacation and having items addressed by the next meeting may be a
challenge.
Aicher encouraged Council to submit questions, and schedules will be worked around. There are elements
that the City would be best served to implement, and the Council should work towards moving forward with this
within the next few months.
Discussion and direction to staff regarding various elements of the WisDOT Genesee Street/CTH“C”
Bridge Replacement Project currently scheduled for construction in 2029. Consideration of the following
Public Works Committee Recommendations:
l Recommend a shared 10 -foot protected multi -use path with a barrier wall on the east side of the
bridge only, instead of the dedicated bike accommodation and sidewalk on both the east and west
sides.
l Recommend a 10 -foot shared multi -use path be installed from Poplar Path to the bridge and from
the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5 -foot sidewalk.
l Recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall
for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent decorative finish on all sides, and
recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing I -41 20th Avenue Bridge in
Oshkosh.
l Recommend not staining or painting the decorative parapet walls due to maintenance issues, but
instead either keep the natural concrete color or use colored concrete.
l The city sailboat logo is low maintenance and is recommended.
l Concurrence with the Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
l Recommend including the “Highway C” name for the crossroad identification on the outside of the
parapet walls in both directions.
Hafner summarized that the Council had reviewed this the previous month and had asked the Public Works
Committee and Plan Commission to review the project and the Council design preferences. The Public Works
Committee reviewed the items and their recommendations were provided. If the Council can agree on
preferred directions, then the DOT can create a rendering and cost estimate, which can then can go to Plan
Commission for a recommendation back to Council.
Hafner reviewed the Public Works Committee recommendations. The Public Works Committee recommends
a 10-foot path to keep in line with the bike path plan. The DOT is supportive of this proposed path, which would
be a bit wider that Public Works Committee proposed. The barrier wall may not be a workable item. If there is
no barrier wall, the trail would be 16 ’ wide. With the barrier wall it would be 12 ’ wide.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Pavin, to move forward with the recommendation of the recreational trail
on the east side of the bridge.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended that the tie -in from Poplar Path and Indian
Spring Drive also be a 10 -foot multi use path.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Valde, to recommend a 10-foot shared multi-use path be installed from
Poplar Path to the bridge and from the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5-foot sidewalk.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended a consistent design on the inside and
outside of the bridge, and they also recommended a brick form liner as opposed to the Councils suggestion of
a fieldstone form liner. The design recommended is represented on the 20 th Avenue bridge in Oshkosh, which
was pictured in the meeting packet.
Michels asked about the blue hue in the picture under the stone design. Hafner noted the picture reference is
only regarding the stone design, and the bridge colors had not been discussed. At this time the elements
would be only concrete colored.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west
edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent
decorative finish on all sides, and recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing
I-41 20th Avenue Bridge in Oshkosh.
All in favor. Motion carried.
The Council had expressed a preference for some color elements in the design. Public Works Committee had
recommended against that due to maintenance issues, but instead recommended to either keep the natural
concrete color or use colored concrete.
Hafner explained that painting chips, but if the color were in the concrete, it would hold better. The color in the
concrete is an available option for a design element per the DOT.
Michels asked for a comparative example. Hafner suggested the HWY G bridge was the example related to
the color preference.
Henry suggested that color would not be necessary with the brick design, as that design adds depth. Wilken
concurred.
Hafner suggested perhaps requesting a rendering with color and without.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to get an example of color versus no color renderings.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner noted that the Public Works Committee concurred with the sailboat design element ad well as the
Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
The Public Works Committee recommended the Highway C name element based on the existing signage on
I-94.
Pavin added that the “City of Delafield ” could not be included on the bridge.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Valde, to recommend including the “Highway C” name for the bridge
signage and to include the logo.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Mayor's Report
Aicher reported that the Lake Country Fire & Rescue IMA Amendment signing was completed on June 3. There
was a Chamber Golf outing on June 5. Hawks Inn had their Rhubarb Fest on June 6, and a Heritage Hike occurred
in a joint effort with the American Legion, Hawks Inn and the Ice Age Trail.
Accept resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to
expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Aicher explained Hussinger is slowly transitioning towards retirement.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to accept
the resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to expire
04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Confirm appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield Building Inspector position vacated by
Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to confirm the appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield
Building Inspector position vacated by Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
New Business
Discussion and possible action regarding Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint Ronald J.
Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended by the
Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Hafner explained that Judge Kay had resigned. An interim judge had been assigned, but an appointment from
one of the member committees is required. A unanimous vote in support of Sonderhouse occurred and the
Administrative Committee. There must be unanimous decision by all municipalities.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to adopt Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint
Ronald J. Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended
by the Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Motion carried with Laughland abstaining.
Review of the 2025 City of Delafield Audit, including the Financial Statement Overview, Financial
Statements with Independent Auditor’s Report, and Required Audit Communications to the City Council,
as prepared by Johnson Block & Company.
Hafner reviewed the Audit documents provided in the ePacket. The budget surplus came in more than
expected and there was an actual budget surplus of $989,000. Thie equated to an additional $710,000
contribution to the fund balance. Hafner reviewed the items that resulted in the surplus. This puts the City in a
good financial situation with the ending of the ARPA funding and the referendum. The excess fund balance will
assist with the structural deficit projected.
Approval of Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of 5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of
5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Report of City Officials
City Administrator
Update regarding the June 9, 2026, Bids and Sale of City’s General Obligation Promissory Notes,
Series 2026A.
The bond sale occurred and the parameters were met. The interest rate came in at 3.2% and
included a premium which went into the debt service fund. Additianl information was provided in the
packet.
Amended Lake Country Fire & Rescue Intermunicipal Agreement has been finalized and was signed
by all seven member municipalities at ceremonial signing event held on June 3, 2026.
Hafner also noted the IMA amendment was finalized.
City Clerk
Schneider stated that absentee ballots would be mailed the following week and reminded residents to get their
applications in. Aicher asked if there was a preference for absentee voters versus in -person voters. Schneider
explained that ta balance between the two is preferred to prevent issues with bottlenecking with in -person
voting or absentee processing.
Welcome Kate Bach to the City of Delafield Clerk's Office Staff.
Schneider stated that the Clerk ’s Office had filled the vacant position. Kate Bach had started the
week prior, and she is learning quickly and fitting in well.
City Treasurer
April 2026 Treasurer's Report
Council Requests for Future Agenda Items
Price requested for the next meeting obtaining easements for the neighbors on Lakewood Court for the
purpose of maintaining a natural barricade in the future.
Correspondence
Adjournment
Having no further business, the June 16, 20 Common Council meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Molly Schneider, City Clerk
1.
2.
3.
4.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
5.
6.
A.
i.
B.
C.
7.
A.
8.
A.
i.
ii.
iii.
B.
i.
a.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
i.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
9.
A.
B.
10.
A.
B.
11.
A.
B.
C.
12.
A.
i.
ii.
B.
i.
C.
i.
D.
13.
14.
DRAFT
Common Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM
**CITY HALL COMMON COUNCIL CHAMBERS**
500 Genesee Street, Delafield, WI 53018
Mayor: Tim Aicher
Council President: Alderperson Dirk Wilken (D4)
Alderpersons: Danielle Henry (D1), Mark Schaefer (D2), Jackie Valde (D3), George Pavin (D5), Paul Price (D6), Stephen
Laughland (D7)
6/15/2026 - Minutes
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Roll Call
Alderpersons Present: Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken, Ald. D4;
George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Also present: Tim Aicher, Mayor; Tom Hafner, City Administrator/DPW Director; Jim Carroll, City Attorney; Molly
Schneider, City Clerk
Minutes
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes of the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting, the April
21, 2026, Organizational Meeting, and the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of the Minutes from the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the minutes from the April 21, 2026, Organizational Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 18, 2026 Regular Meeting.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes from the May 18, 2026, Regular Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Wilken and Pavin abstaining.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to approve the minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Valde abstaining.
City of Delafield Citizen Comments
Hearing no one who wished to speak, Citizen's Comments were closed.
Announcement of Matters for Possible Closed Session
Mayor Aicher announced the matters for possible Closed Session.
Motion to convene in Closed Session pursuant to the following provisions:
Motion to convene into closed session pursuant to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds, or
conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a
closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the City ’s labor
attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a successor agreement
between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of Delafield (current agreement
is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, at 7:04 PM, to convene into closed session pursuant
to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds,
or conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons
require a closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the
City’s labor attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a
successor agreement between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of
Delafield (current agreement is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Roll Call Vote:
AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Also present for the closed session were Mayor Aicher, Administrator Hafner, Attorney Carrol, Chief
Nyren, and Clerk Schneider.
Motion to re-convene into Open Session.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Henry, to re-convene into Open Session at 7:57 PM.
Roll Call Vote: AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding items discussed in Closed Session.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, that the bargaining committee for the Police contract negotiations
include Mayor Aicher, Alderperson Jackie Valde, and Alderperson Steve Michels, as well as
Administrator Hafner.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the consent agenda, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of Resolution 2026-10 regarding the City’s 2025 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report
(CMAR) submittal to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for the City ’s wastewater
collection system.
Boards, Committees, and Commission Reports
Licenses
Discussion and possible action regarding approval of an AB-105 Application for Kellermeister
Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest, sponsored by Divine
Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Schneider explained this was another AB-105 application for a Brewery to hold temporary retail
location at an event. The event is at Divine Redeemer on September 13, 2026.
Chad Ostram, was present to discuss the application.
Motion by Laughland, seconded by Henry, to approve the AB -105 application for
Kellermeister Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest,
sponsored by Divine Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin
Department of Revenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action to approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside
Dr., Delafield, WI 53018, which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C”
Wine License to allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51
(3m), with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application
corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that Hillside is now requesting a “ Class C” Wine License. requirements for a
Wine License have changed, which allows for more businesses to obtain a Wine License. This
business is no longer restricted by the requirement of having to have a minimum amount of gross
receipts be from food. Hillside already holds a Class “B” Beer license.
Michels asked if issuing this would cost a limited license. Schneider explained this was not a
license type that was restricted by a quota.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to
approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside Dr., Delafield, WI 53018,
which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C” Wine License to
allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51(3m), with
issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application corrections,
and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding the approval of granting the 2026-2027 Alcohol Beverage
Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of
application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that the renewals were all in, but there were issues with application forms being
completed correctly that are still being sorted out, as there are every year. Background checks are
in the hands of the Police Department, and staff runs a final report for outstanding debts prior to
issuing the licenses. Approval should be contingent upon these items, which are listed in the
agenda language.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to approve the granting the 2026 -2027 Alcohol
Beverage Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks,
completion of application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Plan Commission
Wilken reported the Plan Commission welcomed three new businesses and there were two Public Hearings
that were continued to the next month.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Following Items:
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue. Owner: Cedar Square III LLC. Applicant: John Barker,
501 Maple, LLC. Applicant requests approval of a Stormwater Maintenance Agreement to
accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Laughland, to approve the Stormwater Maintenance Agreement
to accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development, for the property located at
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Lake Welfare Committee
Price reported that the Lake Welfare Committee discussed stormwater runoff on the east side of the lake on
Lakewood Court. The Lake Welfare Committee would like to obtain easements to address the issue. Hafner
explained that there is a deep ravine that runs along Lakewood Court that serves as regional drainage but is
on private property. The property has become very unstable and when there is a rainfall event, significant
amounts of sediment end up in the lake. Not all adjacent property owners are interested in allowing an
easement.
Park & Recreation Commission/Tree Board
No meeting, no report.
Public Works Committee
Pavin reported that the Public Works Committee discussed the recommendations for the CTY HWY C bridge
project and determined that the St. Michael ’s entrance did not need to be reduced.
Del-Hart Commission
Aicher reported the officers were elected and the overall funcions of the plant are in good conditions.
Police Commission
No meeting, no report.
Library Board
Henry reported the Board discussed capitol planning for a Library expansion and will be asking for Council
support of the efforts in the future. The Summer programming is in full swing. The book sale is on Saturday
mornings.
June 2026 Library Director's Report
Zoning Board of Appeals
No meeting, no report.
Promotion & Tourism Commission
No meeting, no report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Commission
No report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Board
Michels reported the board met on May 20 th. A Chairman was appointed. The IMA was signed on June 3.
Budget meetings were set for August 19 th and September 9 th.
Deer Management Committee
The Deer Management Committee met on May 10.
Other Committees, Commissions, & Boards
Unfinished Business
Continuation of discussion of the draft City of Delafield Classification and Compensation Study and
possible action by the Council to provide direction to staff regarding any revisions to the draft study and
plan prior to its finalization for consideration of acceptance, approval, and/or adoption at a future
meeting.
Henry supported the report as a starting point. A subcommittee may be a good idea, and implementation
should be tied into the 2027 budget.
Michels agreed with Henry’s sentiment and also did not agree with moving to adopt the study as a whole.
Laughland echoed those sentiments.
Hafner asked about the thorough review and how that would be completed and how to see staff potentially
implement it into the budget.
Henry would like to understand in more detail how the plan was achieved.
Laughland noted that the study did not have any methodological foundation.
Aicher added that perhaps including some of the budgetary asks should be incorporated into the budget and
should go through the budgetary process. There were some HR items that might be helpful, such as the
establishment of grade levels for a hiring wage range and the hybrid approach for annual increases might be
beneficial.
Aicher suggested that staff might present the policy items separate from the budget items.
Henry appreciated the policy but still had questions about the numbers and where the goals came from.
Valde agreed and noted that the purpose was to address the turnover over the years; there are many
thoughtful observations, but a detailed conversation would be helpful. Valde has concerns about merit based
pay raises.
Henry asked about what is most important to the study in the opinion of the staff.
Hafner noted that even before the study was completed, he felt that the City pays employees well, but that the
City was deficient with two positions. The study reflected that observation. Getting to a competitive pay rate for
the deficient positions was extremely important. Additionally, implementing a merit component to increases is
important to encourage performance incentive.
Schneider stated that turnover is not as much an issue in the grand scheme of things, but there had been
conversations with regard to employees considering alternative employment opportunities. Having the
detailed information about the comparatives and being able to present the data that the City pays well is
helpful for retention and firing. Having the information and tools to continue to keep the and wages within a
competitive range going forward. The previous data was collected 20 years ago and did not present an
accurate base for the current market and hiring ranges. The step program and range is something that is
useful, even if the Council does not choose to adopt the exact proposed ranges presented. Schneider echoed
Hafner’s with regard to a preference for the merit component for wage increases.
Aicher asked about the possibility of policy standpoint and whether staff could present some action items.
Hafner stated that the Council has questions and feedback. Hafner suggested that Council could submit
questions in writing, and he and Schneider would welcome any questions. Alternatively, if Council would like a
Committee to meet with Hafner and Schneider to work through the perceived issues, Council could submit
concerns to the Committee representatives to ensure all questions and concerns are being addressed.
Laughland is not supportive of the report and did not feel that the comparatives based on salary were
appropriate. There are other important items that were not considered.
Aicher asked if there was a constructive wat to carry the conversation forward in a subcommittee or otherwise.
Henry would like to start with one meeting to go through the report in detail and see what the next course of
action may be.
Aicher asked the Council to submit questions to Administrator Hafner and Clerk Schneider to clarify the items
in question. The Council needs to commit to critiquing the report, asking questions, and making headway with
the report. A subcommittee could prolong the process and isn ’t really necessary to get questions or concerns
answered.
Hafner noted that he had a planned vacation and having items addressed by the next meeting may be a
challenge.
Aicher encouraged Council to submit questions, and schedules will be worked around. There are elements
that the City would be best served to implement, and the Council should work towards moving forward with this
within the next few months.
Discussion and direction to staff regarding various elements of the WisDOT Genesee Street/CTH“C”
Bridge Replacement Project currently scheduled for construction in 2029. Consideration of the following
Public Works Committee Recommendations:
l Recommend a shared 10 -foot protected multi -use path with a barrier wall on the east side of the
bridge only, instead of the dedicated bike accommodation and sidewalk on both the east and west
sides.
l Recommend a 10 -foot shared multi -use path be installed from Poplar Path to the bridge and from
the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5 -foot sidewalk.
l Recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall
for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent decorative finish on all sides, and
recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing I -41 20th Avenue Bridge in
Oshkosh.
l Recommend not staining or painting the decorative parapet walls due to maintenance issues, but
instead either keep the natural concrete color or use colored concrete.
l The city sailboat logo is low maintenance and is recommended.
l Concurrence with the Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
l Recommend including the “Highway C” name for the crossroad identification on the outside of the
parapet walls in both directions.
Hafner summarized that the Council had reviewed this the previous month and had asked the Public Works
Committee and Plan Commission to review the project and the Council design preferences. The Public Works
Committee reviewed the items and their recommendations were provided. If the Council can agree on
preferred directions, then the DOT can create a rendering and cost estimate, which can then can go to Plan
Commission for a recommendation back to Council.
Hafner reviewed the Public Works Committee recommendations. The Public Works Committee recommends
a 10-foot path to keep in line with the bike path plan. The DOT is supportive of this proposed path, which would
be a bit wider that Public Works Committee proposed. The barrier wall may not be a workable item. If there is
no barrier wall, the trail would be 16 ’ wide. With the barrier wall it would be 12 ’ wide.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Pavin, to move forward with the recommendation of the recreational trail
on the east side of the bridge.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended that the tie -in from Poplar Path and Indian
Spring Drive also be a 10 -foot multi use path.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Valde, to recommend a 10-foot shared multi-use path be installed from
Poplar Path to the bridge and from the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5-foot sidewalk.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended a consistent design on the inside and
outside of the bridge, and they also recommended a brick form liner as opposed to the Councils suggestion of
a fieldstone form liner. The design recommended is represented on the 20 th Avenue bridge in Oshkosh, which
was pictured in the meeting packet.
Michels asked about the blue hue in the picture under the stone design. Hafner noted the picture reference is
only regarding the stone design, and the bridge colors had not been discussed. At this time the elements
would be only concrete colored.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west
edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent
decorative finish on all sides, and recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing
I-41 20th Avenue Bridge in Oshkosh.
All in favor. Motion carried.
The Council had expressed a preference for some color elements in the design. Public Works Committee had
recommended against that due to maintenance issues, but instead recommended to either keep the natural
concrete color or use colored concrete.
Hafner explained that painting chips, but if the color were in the concrete, it would hold better. The color in the
concrete is an available option for a design element per the DOT.
Michels asked for a comparative example. Hafner suggested the HWY G bridge was the example related to
the color preference.
Henry suggested that color would not be necessary with the brick design, as that design adds depth. Wilken
concurred.
Hafner suggested perhaps requesting a rendering with color and without.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to get an example of color versus no color renderings.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner noted that the Public Works Committee concurred with the sailboat design element ad well as the
Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
The Public Works Committee recommended the Highway C name element based on the existing signage on
I-94.
Pavin added that the “City of Delafield ” could not be included on the bridge.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Valde, to recommend including the “Highway C” name for the bridge
signage and to include the logo.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Mayor's Report
Aicher reported that the Lake Country Fire & Rescue IMA Amendment signing was completed on June 3. There
was a Chamber Golf outing on June 5. Hawks Inn had their Rhubarb Fest on June 6, and a Heritage Hike occurred
in a joint effort with the American Legion, Hawks Inn and the Ice Age Trail.
Accept resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to
expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Aicher explained Hussinger is slowly transitioning towards retirement.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to accept
the resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to expire
04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Confirm appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield Building Inspector position vacated by
Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to confirm the appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield
Building Inspector position vacated by Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
New Business
Discussion and possible action regarding Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint Ronald J.
Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended by the
Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Hafner explained that Judge Kay had resigned. An interim judge had been assigned, but an appointment from
one of the member committees is required. A unanimous vote in support of Sonderhouse occurred and the
Administrative Committee. There must be unanimous decision by all municipalities.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to adopt Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint
Ronald J. Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended
by the Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Motion carried with Laughland abstaining.
Review of the 2025 City of Delafield Audit, including the Financial Statement Overview, Financial
Statements with Independent Auditor’s Report, and Required Audit Communications to the City Council,
as prepared by Johnson Block & Company.
Hafner reviewed the Audit documents provided in the ePacket. The budget surplus came in more than
expected and there was an actual budget surplus of $989,000. Thie equated to an additional $710,000
contribution to the fund balance. Hafner reviewed the items that resulted in the surplus. This puts the City in a
good financial situation with the ending of the ARPA funding and the referendum. The excess fund balance will
assist with the structural deficit projected.
Approval of Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of 5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of
5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Report of City Officials
City Administrator
Update regarding the June 9, 2026, Bids and Sale of City’s General Obligation Promissory Notes,
Series 2026A.
The bond sale occurred and the parameters were met. The interest rate came in at 3.2% and
included a premium which went into the debt service fund. Additianl information was provided in the
packet.
Amended Lake Country Fire & Rescue Intermunicipal Agreement has been finalized and was signed
by all seven member municipalities at ceremonial signing event held on June 3, 2026.
Hafner also noted the IMA amendment was finalized.
City Clerk
Schneider stated that absentee ballots would be mailed the following week and reminded residents to get their
applications in. Aicher asked if there was a preference for absentee voters versus in -person voters. Schneider
explained that ta balance between the two is preferred to prevent issues with bottlenecking with in -person
voting or absentee processing.
Welcome Kate Bach to the City of Delafield Clerk's Office Staff.
Schneider stated that the Clerk ’s Office had filled the vacant position. Kate Bach had started the
week prior, and she is learning quickly and fitting in well.
City Treasurer
April 2026 Treasurer's Report
Council Requests for Future Agenda Items
Price requested for the next meeting obtaining easements for the neighbors on Lakewood Court for the
purpose of maintaining a natural barricade in the future.
Correspondence
Adjournment
Having no further business, the June 16, 20 Common Council meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Molly Schneider, City Clerk
1.
2.
3.
4.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
5.
6.
A.
i.
B.
C.
7.
A.
8.
A.
i.
ii.
iii.
B.
i.
a.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
i.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
9.
A.
B.
10.
A.
B.
11.
A.
B.
C.
12.
A.
i.
ii.
B.
i.
C.
i.
D.
13.
14.
DRAFT
Common Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM
**CITY HALL COMMON COUNCIL CHAMBERS**
500 Genesee Street, Delafield, WI 53018
Mayor: Tim Aicher
Council President: Alderperson Dirk Wilken (D4)
Alderpersons: Danielle Henry (D1), Mark Schaefer (D2), Jackie Valde (D3), George Pavin (D5), Paul Price (D6), Stephen
Laughland (D7)
6/15/2026 - Minutes
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Roll Call
Alderpersons Present: Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken, Ald. D4;
George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Also present: Tim Aicher, Mayor; Tom Hafner, City Administrator/DPW Director; Jim Carroll, City Attorney; Molly
Schneider, City Clerk
Minutes
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes of the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting, the April
21, 2026, Organizational Meeting, and the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of the Minutes from the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the minutes from the April 21, 2026, Organizational Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 18, 2026 Regular Meeting.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes from the May 18, 2026, Regular Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Wilken and Pavin abstaining.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to approve the minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Valde abstaining.
City of Delafield Citizen Comments
Hearing no one who wished to speak, Citizen's Comments were closed.
Announcement of Matters for Possible Closed Session
Mayor Aicher announced the matters for possible Closed Session.
Motion to convene in Closed Session pursuant to the following provisions:
Motion to convene into closed session pursuant to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds, or
conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a
closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the City ’s labor
attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a successor agreement
between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of Delafield (current agreement
is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, at 7:04 PM, to convene into closed session pursuant
to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds,
or conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons
require a closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the
City’s labor attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a
successor agreement between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of
Delafield (current agreement is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Roll Call Vote:
AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Also present for the closed session were Mayor Aicher, Administrator Hafner, Attorney Carrol, Chief
Nyren, and Clerk Schneider.
Motion to re-convene into Open Session.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Henry, to re-convene into Open Session at 7:57 PM.
Roll Call Vote: AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding items discussed in Closed Session.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, that the bargaining committee for the Police contract negotiations
include Mayor Aicher, Alderperson Jackie Valde, and Alderperson Steve Michels, as well as
Administrator Hafner.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the consent agenda, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of Resolution 2026-10 regarding the City’s 2025 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report
(CMAR) submittal to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for the City ’s wastewater
collection system.
Boards, Committees, and Commission Reports
Licenses
Discussion and possible action regarding approval of an AB-105 Application for Kellermeister
Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest, sponsored by Divine
Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Schneider explained this was another AB-105 application for a Brewery to hold temporary retail
location at an event. The event is at Divine Redeemer on September 13, 2026.
Chad Ostram, was present to discuss the application.
Motion by Laughland, seconded by Henry, to approve the AB -105 application for
Kellermeister Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest,
sponsored by Divine Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin
Department of Revenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action to approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside
Dr., Delafield, WI 53018, which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C”
Wine License to allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51
(3m), with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application
corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that Hillside is now requesting a “ Class C” Wine License. requirements for a
Wine License have changed, which allows for more businesses to obtain a Wine License. This
business is no longer restricted by the requirement of having to have a minimum amount of gross
receipts be from food. Hillside already holds a Class “B” Beer license.
Michels asked if issuing this would cost a limited license. Schneider explained this was not a
license type that was restricted by a quota.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to
approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside Dr., Delafield, WI 53018,
which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C” Wine License to
allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51(3m), with
issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application corrections,
and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding the approval of granting the 2026-2027 Alcohol Beverage
Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of
application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that the renewals were all in, but there were issues with application forms being
completed correctly that are still being sorted out, as there are every year. Background checks are
in the hands of the Police Department, and staff runs a final report for outstanding debts prior to
issuing the licenses. Approval should be contingent upon these items, which are listed in the
agenda language.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to approve the granting the 2026 -2027 Alcohol
Beverage Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks,
completion of application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Plan Commission
Wilken reported the Plan Commission welcomed three new businesses and there were two Public Hearings
that were continued to the next month.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Following Items:
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue. Owner: Cedar Square III LLC. Applicant: John Barker,
501 Maple, LLC. Applicant requests approval of a Stormwater Maintenance Agreement to
accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Laughland, to approve the Stormwater Maintenance Agreement
to accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development, for the property located at
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Lake Welfare Committee
Price reported that the Lake Welfare Committee discussed stormwater runoff on the east side of the lake on
Lakewood Court. The Lake Welfare Committee would like to obtain easements to address the issue. Hafner
explained that there is a deep ravine that runs along Lakewood Court that serves as regional drainage but is
on private property. The property has become very unstable and when there is a rainfall event, significant
amounts of sediment end up in the lake. Not all adjacent property owners are interested in allowing an
easement.
Park & Recreation Commission/Tree Board
No meeting, no report.
Public Works Committee
Pavin reported that the Public Works Committee discussed the recommendations for the CTY HWY C bridge
project and determined that the St. Michael ’s entrance did not need to be reduced.
Del-Hart Commission
Aicher reported the officers were elected and the overall funcions of the plant are in good conditions.
Police Commission
No meeting, no report.
Library Board
Henry reported the Board discussed capitol planning for a Library expansion and will be asking for Council
support of the efforts in the future. The Summer programming is in full swing. The book sale is on Saturday
mornings.
June 2026 Library Director's Report
Zoning Board of Appeals
No meeting, no report.
Promotion & Tourism Commission
No meeting, no report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Commission
No report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Board
Michels reported the board met on May 20 th. A Chairman was appointed. The IMA was signed on June 3.
Budget meetings were set for August 19 th and September 9 th.
Deer Management Committee
The Deer Management Committee met on May 10.
Other Committees, Commissions, & Boards
Unfinished Business
Continuation of discussion of the draft City of Delafield Classification and Compensation Study and
possible action by the Council to provide direction to staff regarding any revisions to the draft study and
plan prior to its finalization for consideration of acceptance, approval, and/or adoption at a future
meeting.
Henry supported the report as a starting point. A subcommittee may be a good idea, and implementation
should be tied into the 2027 budget.
Michels agreed with Henry’s sentiment and also did not agree with moving to adopt the study as a whole.
Laughland echoed those sentiments.
Hafner asked about the thorough review and how that would be completed and how to see staff potentially
implement it into the budget.
Henry would like to understand in more detail how the plan was achieved.
Laughland noted that the study did not have any methodological foundation.
Aicher added that perhaps including some of the budgetary asks should be incorporated into the budget and
should go through the budgetary process. There were some HR items that might be helpful, such as the
establishment of grade levels for a hiring wage range and the hybrid approach for annual increases might be
beneficial.
Aicher suggested that staff might present the policy items separate from the budget items.
Henry appreciated the policy but still had questions about the numbers and where the goals came from.
Valde agreed and noted that the purpose was to address the turnover over the years; there are many
thoughtful observations, but a detailed conversation would be helpful. Valde has concerns about merit based
pay raises.
Henry asked about what is most important to the study in the opinion of the staff.
Hafner noted that even before the study was completed, he felt that the City pays employees well, but that the
City was deficient with two positions. The study reflected that observation. Getting to a competitive pay rate for
the deficient positions was extremely important. Additionally, implementing a merit component to increases is
important to encourage performance incentive.
Schneider stated that turnover is not as much an issue in the grand scheme of things, but there had been
conversations with regard to employees considering alternative employment opportunities. Having the
detailed information about the comparatives and being able to present the data that the City pays well is
helpful for retention and firing. Having the information and tools to continue to keep the and wages within a
competitive range going forward. The previous data was collected 20 years ago and did not present an
accurate base for the current market and hiring ranges. The step program and range is something that is
useful, even if the Council does not choose to adopt the exact proposed ranges presented. Schneider echoed
Hafner’s with regard to a preference for the merit component for wage increases.
Aicher asked about the possibility of policy standpoint and whether staff could present some action items.
Hafner stated that the Council has questions and feedback. Hafner suggested that Council could submit
questions in writing, and he and Schneider would welcome any questions. Alternatively, if Council would like a
Committee to meet with Hafner and Schneider to work through the perceived issues, Council could submit
concerns to the Committee representatives to ensure all questions and concerns are being addressed.
Laughland is not supportive of the report and did not feel that the comparatives based on salary were
appropriate. There are other important items that were not considered.
Aicher asked if there was a constructive wat to carry the conversation forward in a subcommittee or otherwise.
Henry would like to start with one meeting to go through the report in detail and see what the next course of
action may be.
Aicher asked the Council to submit questions to Administrator Hafner and Clerk Schneider to clarify the items
in question. The Council needs to commit to critiquing the report, asking questions, and making headway with
the report. A subcommittee could prolong the process and isn ’t really necessary to get questions or concerns
answered.
Hafner noted that he had a planned vacation and having items addressed by the next meeting may be a
challenge.
Aicher encouraged Council to submit questions, and schedules will be worked around. There are elements
that the City would be best served to implement, and the Council should work towards moving forward with this
within the next few months.
Discussion and direction to staff regarding various elements of the WisDOT Genesee Street/CTH“C”
Bridge Replacement Project currently scheduled for construction in 2029. Consideration of the following
Public Works Committee Recommendations:
l Recommend a shared 10 -foot protected multi -use path with a barrier wall on the east side of the
bridge only, instead of the dedicated bike accommodation and sidewalk on both the east and west
sides.
l Recommend a 10 -foot shared multi -use path be installed from Poplar Path to the bridge and from
the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5 -foot sidewalk.
l Recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall
for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent decorative finish on all sides, and
recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing I -41 20th Avenue Bridge in
Oshkosh.
l Recommend not staining or painting the decorative parapet walls due to maintenance issues, but
instead either keep the natural concrete color or use colored concrete.
l The city sailboat logo is low maintenance and is recommended.
l Concurrence with the Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
l Recommend including the “Highway C” name for the crossroad identification on the outside of the
parapet walls in both directions.
Hafner summarized that the Council had reviewed this the previous month and had asked the Public Works
Committee and Plan Commission to review the project and the Council design preferences. The Public Works
Committee reviewed the items and their recommendations were provided. If the Council can agree on
preferred directions, then the DOT can create a rendering and cost estimate, which can then can go to Plan
Commission for a recommendation back to Council.
Hafner reviewed the Public Works Committee recommendations. The Public Works Committee recommends
a 10-foot path to keep in line with the bike path plan. The DOT is supportive of this proposed path, which would
be a bit wider that Public Works Committee proposed. The barrier wall may not be a workable item. If there is
no barrier wall, the trail would be 16 ’ wide. With the barrier wall it would be 12 ’ wide.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Pavin, to move forward with the recommendation of the recreational trail
on the east side of the bridge.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended that the tie -in from Poplar Path and Indian
Spring Drive also be a 10 -foot multi use path.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Valde, to recommend a 10-foot shared multi-use path be installed from
Poplar Path to the bridge and from the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5-foot sidewalk.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended a consistent design on the inside and
outside of the bridge, and they also recommended a brick form liner as opposed to the Councils suggestion of
a fieldstone form liner. The design recommended is represented on the 20 th Avenue bridge in Oshkosh, which
was pictured in the meeting packet.
Michels asked about the blue hue in the picture under the stone design. Hafner noted the picture reference is
only regarding the stone design, and the bridge colors had not been discussed. At this time the elements
would be only concrete colored.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west
edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent
decorative finish on all sides, and recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing
I-41 20th Avenue Bridge in Oshkosh.
All in favor. Motion carried.
The Council had expressed a preference for some color elements in the design. Public Works Committee had
recommended against that due to maintenance issues, but instead recommended to either keep the natural
concrete color or use colored concrete.
Hafner explained that painting chips, but if the color were in the concrete, it would hold better. The color in the
concrete is an available option for a design element per the DOT.
Michels asked for a comparative example. Hafner suggested the HWY G bridge was the example related to
the color preference.
Henry suggested that color would not be necessary with the brick design, as that design adds depth. Wilken
concurred.
Hafner suggested perhaps requesting a rendering with color and without.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to get an example of color versus no color renderings.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner noted that the Public Works Committee concurred with the sailboat design element ad well as the
Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
The Public Works Committee recommended the Highway C name element based on the existing signage on
I-94.
Pavin added that the “City of Delafield ” could not be included on the bridge.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Valde, to recommend including the “Highway C” name for the bridge
signage and to include the logo.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Mayor's Report
Aicher reported that the Lake Country Fire & Rescue IMA Amendment signing was completed on June 3. There
was a Chamber Golf outing on June 5. Hawks Inn had their Rhubarb Fest on June 6, and a Heritage Hike occurred
in a joint effort with the American Legion, Hawks Inn and the Ice Age Trail.
Accept resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to
expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Aicher explained Hussinger is slowly transitioning towards retirement.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to accept
the resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to expire
04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Confirm appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield Building Inspector position vacated by
Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to confirm the appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield
Building Inspector position vacated by Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
New Business
Discussion and possible action regarding Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint Ronald J.
Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended by the
Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Hafner explained that Judge Kay had resigned. An interim judge had been assigned, but an appointment from
one of the member committees is required. A unanimous vote in support of Sonderhouse occurred and the
Administrative Committee. There must be unanimous decision by all municipalities.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to adopt Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint
Ronald J. Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended
by the Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Motion carried with Laughland abstaining.
Review of the 2025 City of Delafield Audit, including the Financial Statement Overview, Financial
Statements with Independent Auditor’s Report, and Required Audit Communications to the City Council,
as prepared by Johnson Block & Company.
Hafner reviewed the Audit documents provided in the ePacket. The budget surplus came in more than
expected and there was an actual budget surplus of $989,000. Thie equated to an additional $710,000
contribution to the fund balance. Hafner reviewed the items that resulted in the surplus. This puts the City in a
good financial situation with the ending of the ARPA funding and the referendum. The excess fund balance will
assist with the structural deficit projected.
Approval of Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of 5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of
5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Report of City Officials
City Administrator
Update regarding the June 9, 2026, Bids and Sale of City’s General Obligation Promissory Notes,
Series 2026A.
The bond sale occurred and the parameters were met. The interest rate came in at 3.2% and
included a premium which went into the debt service fund. Additianl information was provided in the
packet.
Amended Lake Country Fire & Rescue Intermunicipal Agreement has been finalized and was signed
by all seven member municipalities at ceremonial signing event held on June 3, 2026.
Hafner also noted the IMA amendment was finalized.
City Clerk
Schneider stated that absentee ballots would be mailed the following week and reminded residents to get their
applications in. Aicher asked if there was a preference for absentee voters versus in -person voters. Schneider
explained that ta balance between the two is preferred to prevent issues with bottlenecking with in -person
voting or absentee processing.
Welcome Kate Bach to the City of Delafield Clerk's Office Staff.
Schneider stated that the Clerk ’s Office had filled the vacant position. Kate Bach had started the
week prior, and she is learning quickly and fitting in well.
City Treasurer
April 2026 Treasurer's Report
Council Requests for Future Agenda Items
Price requested for the next meeting obtaining easements for the neighbors on Lakewood Court for the
purpose of maintaining a natural barricade in the future.
Correspondence
Adjournment
Having no further business, the June 16, 20 Common Council meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Molly Schneider, City Clerk
1.
2.
3.
4.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
5.
6.
A.
i.
B.
C.
7.
A.
8.
A.
i.
ii.
iii.
B.
i.
a.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
i.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
9.
A.
B.
10.
A.
B.
11.
A.
B.
C.
12.
A.
i.
ii.
B.
i.
C.
i.
D.
13.
14.
DRAFT
Common Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM
**CITY HALL COMMON COUNCIL CHAMBERS**
500 Genesee Street, Delafield, WI 53018
Mayor: Tim Aicher
Council President: Alderperson Dirk Wilken (D4)
Alderpersons: Danielle Henry (D1), Mark Schaefer (D2), Jackie Valde (D3), George Pavin (D5), Paul Price (D6), Stephen
Laughland (D7)
6/15/2026 - Minutes
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Roll Call
Alderpersons Present: Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken, Ald. D4;
George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Also present: Tim Aicher, Mayor; Tom Hafner, City Administrator/DPW Director; Jim Carroll, City Attorney; Molly
Schneider, City Clerk
Minutes
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes of the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting, the April
21, 2026, Organizational Meeting, and the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of the Minutes from the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the minutes from the April 21, 2026, Organizational Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 18, 2026 Regular Meeting.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes from the May 18, 2026, Regular Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Wilken and Pavin abstaining.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to approve the minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Valde abstaining.
City of Delafield Citizen Comments
Hearing no one who wished to speak, Citizen's Comments were closed.
Announcement of Matters for Possible Closed Session
Mayor Aicher announced the matters for possible Closed Session.
Motion to convene in Closed Session pursuant to the following provisions:
Motion to convene into closed session pursuant to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds, or
conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a
closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the City ’s labor
attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a successor agreement
between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of Delafield (current agreement
is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, at 7:04 PM, to convene into closed session pursuant
to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds,
or conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons
require a closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the
City’s labor attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a
successor agreement between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of
Delafield (current agreement is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Roll Call Vote:
AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Also present for the closed session were Mayor Aicher, Administrator Hafner, Attorney Carrol, Chief
Nyren, and Clerk Schneider.
Motion to re-convene into Open Session.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Henry, to re-convene into Open Session at 7:57 PM.
Roll Call Vote: AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding items discussed in Closed Session.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, that the bargaining committee for the Police contract negotiations
include Mayor Aicher, Alderperson Jackie Valde, and Alderperson Steve Michels, as well as
Administrator Hafner.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the consent agenda, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of Resolution 2026-10 regarding the City’s 2025 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report
(CMAR) submittal to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for the City ’s wastewater
collection system.
Boards, Committees, and Commission Reports
Licenses
Discussion and possible action regarding approval of an AB-105 Application for Kellermeister
Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest, sponsored by Divine
Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Schneider explained this was another AB-105 application for a Brewery to hold temporary retail
location at an event. The event is at Divine Redeemer on September 13, 2026.
Chad Ostram, was present to discuss the application.
Motion by Laughland, seconded by Henry, to approve the AB -105 application for
Kellermeister Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest,
sponsored by Divine Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin
Department of Revenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action to approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside
Dr., Delafield, WI 53018, which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C”
Wine License to allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51
(3m), with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application
corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that Hillside is now requesting a “ Class C” Wine License. requirements for a
Wine License have changed, which allows for more businesses to obtain a Wine License. This
business is no longer restricted by the requirement of having to have a minimum amount of gross
receipts be from food. Hillside already holds a Class “B” Beer license.
Michels asked if issuing this would cost a limited license. Schneider explained this was not a
license type that was restricted by a quota.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to
approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside Dr., Delafield, WI 53018,
which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C” Wine License to
allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51(3m), with
issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application corrections,
and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding the approval of granting the 2026-2027 Alcohol Beverage
Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of
application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that the renewals were all in, but there were issues with application forms being
completed correctly that are still being sorted out, as there are every year. Background checks are
in the hands of the Police Department, and staff runs a final report for outstanding debts prior to
issuing the licenses. Approval should be contingent upon these items, which are listed in the
agenda language.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to approve the granting the 2026 -2027 Alcohol
Beverage Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks,
completion of application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Plan Commission
Wilken reported the Plan Commission welcomed three new businesses and there were two Public Hearings
that were continued to the next month.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Following Items:
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue. Owner: Cedar Square III LLC. Applicant: John Barker,
501 Maple, LLC. Applicant requests approval of a Stormwater Maintenance Agreement to
accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Laughland, to approve the Stormwater Maintenance Agreement
to accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development, for the property located at
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Lake Welfare Committee
Price reported that the Lake Welfare Committee discussed stormwater runoff on the east side of the lake on
Lakewood Court. The Lake Welfare Committee would like to obtain easements to address the issue. Hafner
explained that there is a deep ravine that runs along Lakewood Court that serves as regional drainage but is
on private property. The property has become very unstable and when there is a rainfall event, significant
amounts of sediment end up in the lake. Not all adjacent property owners are interested in allowing an
easement.
Park & Recreation Commission/Tree Board
No meeting, no report.
Public Works Committee
Pavin reported that the Public Works Committee discussed the recommendations for the CTY HWY C bridge
project and determined that the St. Michael ’s entrance did not need to be reduced.
Del-Hart Commission
Aicher reported the officers were elected and the overall funcions of the plant are in good conditions.
Police Commission
No meeting, no report.
Library Board
Henry reported the Board discussed capitol planning for a Library expansion and will be asking for Council
support of the efforts in the future. The Summer programming is in full swing. The book sale is on Saturday
mornings.
June 2026 Library Director's Report
Zoning Board of Appeals
No meeting, no report.
Promotion & Tourism Commission
No meeting, no report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Commission
No report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Board
Michels reported the board met on May 20 th. A Chairman was appointed. The IMA was signed on June 3.
Budget meetings were set for August 19 th and September 9 th.
Deer Management Committee
The Deer Management Committee met on May 10.
Other Committees, Commissions, & Boards
Unfinished Business
Continuation of discussion of the draft City of Delafield Classification and Compensation Study and
possible action by the Council to provide direction to staff regarding any revisions to the draft study and
plan prior to its finalization for consideration of acceptance, approval, and/or adoption at a future
meeting.
Henry supported the report as a starting point. A subcommittee may be a good idea, and implementation
should be tied into the 2027 budget.
Michels agreed with Henry’s sentiment and also did not agree with moving to adopt the study as a whole.
Laughland echoed those sentiments.
Hafner asked about the thorough review and how that would be completed and how to see staff potentially
implement it into the budget.
Henry would like to understand in more detail how the plan was achieved.
Laughland noted that the study did not have any methodological foundation.
Aicher added that perhaps including some of the budgetary asks should be incorporated into the budget and
should go through the budgetary process. There were some HR items that might be helpful, such as the
establishment of grade levels for a hiring wage range and the hybrid approach for annual increases might be
beneficial.
Aicher suggested that staff might present the policy items separate from the budget items.
Henry appreciated the policy but still had questions about the numbers and where the goals came from.
Valde agreed and noted that the purpose was to address the turnover over the years; there are many
thoughtful observations, but a detailed conversation would be helpful. Valde has concerns about merit based
pay raises.
Henry asked about what is most important to the study in the opinion of the staff.
Hafner noted that even before the study was completed, he felt that the City pays employees well, but that the
City was deficient with two positions. The study reflected that observation. Getting to a competitive pay rate for
the deficient positions was extremely important. Additionally, implementing a merit component to increases is
important to encourage performance incentive.
Schneider stated that turnover is not as much an issue in the grand scheme of things, but there had been
conversations with regard to employees considering alternative employment opportunities. Having the
detailed information about the comparatives and being able to present the data that the City pays well is
helpful for retention and firing. Having the information and tools to continue to keep the and wages within a
competitive range going forward. The previous data was collected 20 years ago and did not present an
accurate base for the current market and hiring ranges. The step program and range is something that is
useful, even if the Council does not choose to adopt the exact proposed ranges presented. Schneider echoed
Hafner’s with regard to a preference for the merit component for wage increases.
Aicher asked about the possibility of policy standpoint and whether staff could present some action items.
Hafner stated that the Council has questions and feedback. Hafner suggested that Council could submit
questions in writing, and he and Schneider would welcome any questions. Alternatively, if Council would like a
Committee to meet with Hafner and Schneider to work through the perceived issues, Council could submit
concerns to the Committee representatives to ensure all questions and concerns are being addressed.
Laughland is not supportive of the report and did not feel that the comparatives based on salary were
appropriate. There are other important items that were not considered.
Aicher asked if there was a constructive wat to carry the conversation forward in a subcommittee or otherwise.
Henry would like to start with one meeting to go through the report in detail and see what the next course of
action may be.
Aicher asked the Council to submit questions to Administrator Hafner and Clerk Schneider to clarify the items
in question. The Council needs to commit to critiquing the report, asking questions, and making headway with
the report. A subcommittee could prolong the process and isn ’t really necessary to get questions or concerns
answered.
Hafner noted that he had a planned vacation and having items addressed by the next meeting may be a
challenge.
Aicher encouraged Council to submit questions, and schedules will be worked around. There are elements
that the City would be best served to implement, and the Council should work towards moving forward with this
within the next few months.
Discussion and direction to staff regarding various elements of the WisDOT Genesee Street/CTH“C”
Bridge Replacement Project currently scheduled for construction in 2029. Consideration of the following
Public Works Committee Recommendations:
l Recommend a shared 10 -foot protected multi -use path with a barrier wall on the east side of the
bridge only, instead of the dedicated bike accommodation and sidewalk on both the east and west
sides.
l Recommend a 10 -foot shared multi -use path be installed from Poplar Path to the bridge and from
the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5 -foot sidewalk.
l Recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall
for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent decorative finish on all sides, and
recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing I -41 20th Avenue Bridge in
Oshkosh.
l Recommend not staining or painting the decorative parapet walls due to maintenance issues, but
instead either keep the natural concrete color or use colored concrete.
l The city sailboat logo is low maintenance and is recommended.
l Concurrence with the Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
l Recommend including the “Highway C” name for the crossroad identification on the outside of the
parapet walls in both directions.
Hafner summarized that the Council had reviewed this the previous month and had asked the Public Works
Committee and Plan Commission to review the project and the Council design preferences. The Public Works
Committee reviewed the items and their recommendations were provided. If the Council can agree on
preferred directions, then the DOT can create a rendering and cost estimate, which can then can go to Plan
Commission for a recommendation back to Council.
Hafner reviewed the Public Works Committee recommendations. The Public Works Committee recommends
a 10-foot path to keep in line with the bike path plan. The DOT is supportive of this proposed path, which would
be a bit wider that Public Works Committee proposed. The barrier wall may not be a workable item. If there is
no barrier wall, the trail would be 16 ’ wide. With the barrier wall it would be 12 ’ wide.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Pavin, to move forward with the recommendation of the recreational trail
on the east side of the bridge.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended that the tie -in from Poplar Path and Indian
Spring Drive also be a 10 -foot multi use path.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Valde, to recommend a 10-foot shared multi-use path be installed from
Poplar Path to the bridge and from the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5-foot sidewalk.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended a consistent design on the inside and
outside of the bridge, and they also recommended a brick form liner as opposed to the Councils suggestion of
a fieldstone form liner. The design recommended is represented on the 20 th Avenue bridge in Oshkosh, which
was pictured in the meeting packet.
Michels asked about the blue hue in the picture under the stone design. Hafner noted the picture reference is
only regarding the stone design, and the bridge colors had not been discussed. At this time the elements
would be only concrete colored.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west
edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent
decorative finish on all sides, and recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing
I-41 20th Avenue Bridge in Oshkosh.
All in favor. Motion carried.
The Council had expressed a preference for some color elements in the design. Public Works Committee had
recommended against that due to maintenance issues, but instead recommended to either keep the natural
concrete color or use colored concrete.
Hafner explained that painting chips, but if the color were in the concrete, it would hold better. The color in the
concrete is an available option for a design element per the DOT.
Michels asked for a comparative example. Hafner suggested the HWY G bridge was the example related to
the color preference.
Henry suggested that color would not be necessary with the brick design, as that design adds depth. Wilken
concurred.
Hafner suggested perhaps requesting a rendering with color and without.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to get an example of color versus no color renderings.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner noted that the Public Works Committee concurred with the sailboat design element ad well as the
Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
The Public Works Committee recommended the Highway C name element based on the existing signage on
I-94.
Pavin added that the “City of Delafield ” could not be included on the bridge.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Valde, to recommend including the “Highway C” name for the bridge
signage and to include the logo.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Mayor's Report
Aicher reported that the Lake Country Fire & Rescue IMA Amendment signing was completed on June 3. There
was a Chamber Golf outing on June 5. Hawks Inn had their Rhubarb Fest on June 6, and a Heritage Hike occurred
in a joint effort with the American Legion, Hawks Inn and the Ice Age Trail.
Accept resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to
expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Aicher explained Hussinger is slowly transitioning towards retirement.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to accept
the resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to expire
04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Confirm appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield Building Inspector position vacated by
Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to confirm the appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield
Building Inspector position vacated by Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
New Business
Discussion and possible action regarding Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint Ronald J.
Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended by the
Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Hafner explained that Judge Kay had resigned. An interim judge had been assigned, but an appointment from
one of the member committees is required. A unanimous vote in support of Sonderhouse occurred and the
Administrative Committee. There must be unanimous decision by all municipalities.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to adopt Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint
Ronald J. Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended
by the Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Motion carried with Laughland abstaining.
Review of the 2025 City of Delafield Audit, including the Financial Statement Overview, Financial
Statements with Independent Auditor’s Report, and Required Audit Communications to the City Council,
as prepared by Johnson Block & Company.
Hafner reviewed the Audit documents provided in the ePacket. The budget surplus came in more than
expected and there was an actual budget surplus of $989,000. Thie equated to an additional $710,000
contribution to the fund balance. Hafner reviewed the items that resulted in the surplus. This puts the City in a
good financial situation with the ending of the ARPA funding and the referendum. The excess fund balance will
assist with the structural deficit projected.
Approval of Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of 5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of
5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Report of City Officials
City Administrator
Update regarding the June 9, 2026, Bids and Sale of City’s General Obligation Promissory Notes,
Series 2026A.
The bond sale occurred and the parameters were met. The interest rate came in at 3.2% and
included a premium which went into the debt service fund. Additianl information was provided in the
packet.
Amended Lake Country Fire & Rescue Intermunicipal Agreement has been finalized and was signed
by all seven member municipalities at ceremonial signing event held on June 3, 2026.
Hafner also noted the IMA amendment was finalized.
City Clerk
Schneider stated that absentee ballots would be mailed the following week and reminded residents to get their
applications in. Aicher asked if there was a preference for absentee voters versus in -person voters. Schneider
explained that ta balance between the two is preferred to prevent issues with bottlenecking with in -person
voting or absentee processing.
Welcome Kate Bach to the City of Delafield Clerk's Office Staff.
Schneider stated that the Clerk ’s Office had filled the vacant position. Kate Bach had started the
week prior, and she is learning quickly and fitting in well.
City Treasurer
April 2026 Treasurer's Report
Council Requests for Future Agenda Items
Price requested for the next meeting obtaining easements for the neighbors on Lakewood Court for the
purpose of maintaining a natural barricade in the future.
Correspondence
Adjournment
Having no further business, the June 16, 20 Common Council meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Molly Schneider, City Clerk
1.
2.
3.
4.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
5.
6.
A.
i.
B.
C.
7.
A.
8.
A.
i.
ii.
iii.
B.
i.
a.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
i.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
9.
A.
B.
10.
A.
B.
11.
A.
B.
C.
12.
A.
i.
ii.
B.
i.
C.
i.
D.
13.
14.
DRAFT
Common Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM
**CITY HALL COMMON COUNCIL CHAMBERS**
500 Genesee Street, Delafield, WI 53018
Mayor: Tim Aicher
Council President: Alderperson Dirk Wilken (D4)
Alderpersons: Danielle Henry (D1), Mark Schaefer (D2), Jackie Valde (D3), George Pavin (D5), Paul Price (D6), Stephen
Laughland (D7)
6/15/2026 - Minutes
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Roll Call
Alderpersons Present: Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken, Ald. D4;
George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Also present: Tim Aicher, Mayor; Tom Hafner, City Administrator/DPW Director; Jim Carroll, City Attorney; Molly
Schneider, City Clerk
Minutes
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes of the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting, the April
21, 2026, Organizational Meeting, and the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of the Minutes from the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the minutes from the April 21, 2026, Organizational Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 18, 2026 Regular Meeting.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes from the May 18, 2026, Regular Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Wilken and Pavin abstaining.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to approve the minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Valde abstaining.
City of Delafield Citizen Comments
Hearing no one who wished to speak, Citizen's Comments were closed.
Announcement of Matters for Possible Closed Session
Mayor Aicher announced the matters for possible Closed Session.
Motion to convene in Closed Session pursuant to the following provisions:
Motion to convene into closed session pursuant to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds, or
conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a
closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the City ’s labor
attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a successor agreement
between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of Delafield (current agreement
is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, at 7:04 PM, to convene into closed session pursuant
to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds,
or conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons
require a closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the
City’s labor attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a
successor agreement between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of
Delafield (current agreement is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Roll Call Vote:
AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Also present for the closed session were Mayor Aicher, Administrator Hafner, Attorney Carrol, Chief
Nyren, and Clerk Schneider.
Motion to re-convene into Open Session.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Henry, to re-convene into Open Session at 7:57 PM.
Roll Call Vote: AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding items discussed in Closed Session.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, that the bargaining committee for the Police contract negotiations
include Mayor Aicher, Alderperson Jackie Valde, and Alderperson Steve Michels, as well as
Administrator Hafner.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the consent agenda, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of Resolution 2026-10 regarding the City’s 2025 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report
(CMAR) submittal to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for the City ’s wastewater
collection system.
Boards, Committees, and Commission Reports
Licenses
Discussion and possible action regarding approval of an AB-105 Application for Kellermeister
Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest, sponsored by Divine
Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Schneider explained this was another AB-105 application for a Brewery to hold temporary retail
location at an event. The event is at Divine Redeemer on September 13, 2026.
Chad Ostram, was present to discuss the application.
Motion by Laughland, seconded by Henry, to approve the AB -105 application for
Kellermeister Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest,
sponsored by Divine Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin
Department of Revenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action to approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside
Dr., Delafield, WI 53018, which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C”
Wine License to allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51
(3m), with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application
corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that Hillside is now requesting a “ Class C” Wine License. requirements for a
Wine License have changed, which allows for more businesses to obtain a Wine License. This
business is no longer restricted by the requirement of having to have a minimum amount of gross
receipts be from food. Hillside already holds a Class “B” Beer license.
Michels asked if issuing this would cost a limited license. Schneider explained this was not a
license type that was restricted by a quota.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to
approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside Dr., Delafield, WI 53018,
which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C” Wine License to
allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51(3m), with
issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application corrections,
and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding the approval of granting the 2026-2027 Alcohol Beverage
Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of
application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that the renewals were all in, but there were issues with application forms being
completed correctly that are still being sorted out, as there are every year. Background checks are
in the hands of the Police Department, and staff runs a final report for outstanding debts prior to
issuing the licenses. Approval should be contingent upon these items, which are listed in the
agenda language.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to approve the granting the 2026 -2027 Alcohol
Beverage Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks,
completion of application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Plan Commission
Wilken reported the Plan Commission welcomed three new businesses and there were two Public Hearings
that were continued to the next month.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Following Items:
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue. Owner: Cedar Square III LLC. Applicant: John Barker,
501 Maple, LLC. Applicant requests approval of a Stormwater Maintenance Agreement to
accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Laughland, to approve the Stormwater Maintenance Agreement
to accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development, for the property located at
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Lake Welfare Committee
Price reported that the Lake Welfare Committee discussed stormwater runoff on the east side of the lake on
Lakewood Court. The Lake Welfare Committee would like to obtain easements to address the issue. Hafner
explained that there is a deep ravine that runs along Lakewood Court that serves as regional drainage but is
on private property. The property has become very unstable and when there is a rainfall event, significant
amounts of sediment end up in the lake. Not all adjacent property owners are interested in allowing an
easement.
Park & Recreation Commission/Tree Board
No meeting, no report.
Public Works Committee
Pavin reported that the Public Works Committee discussed the recommendations for the CTY HWY C bridge
project and determined that the St. Michael ’s entrance did not need to be reduced.
Del-Hart Commission
Aicher reported the officers were elected and the overall funcions of the plant are in good conditions.
Police Commission
No meeting, no report.
Library Board
Henry reported the Board discussed capitol planning for a Library expansion and will be asking for Council
support of the efforts in the future. The Summer programming is in full swing. The book sale is on Saturday
mornings.
June 2026 Library Director's Report
Zoning Board of Appeals
No meeting, no report.
Promotion & Tourism Commission
No meeting, no report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Commission
No report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Board
Michels reported the board met on May 20 th. A Chairman was appointed. The IMA was signed on June 3.
Budget meetings were set for August 19 th and September 9 th.
Deer Management Committee
The Deer Management Committee met on May 10.
Other Committees, Commissions, & Boards
Unfinished Business
Continuation of discussion of the draft City of Delafield Classification and Compensation Study and
possible action by the Council to provide direction to staff regarding any revisions to the draft study and
plan prior to its finalization for consideration of acceptance, approval, and/or adoption at a future
meeting.
Henry supported the report as a starting point. A subcommittee may be a good idea, and implementation
should be tied into the 2027 budget.
Michels agreed with Henry’s sentiment and also did not agree with moving to adopt the study as a whole.
Laughland echoed those sentiments.
Hafner asked about the thorough review and how that would be completed and how to see staff potentially
implement it into the budget.
Henry would like to understand in more detail how the plan was achieved.
Laughland noted that the study did not have any methodological foundation.
Aicher added that perhaps including some of the budgetary asks should be incorporated into the budget and
should go through the budgetary process. There were some HR items that might be helpful, such as the
establishment of grade levels for a hiring wage range and the hybrid approach for annual increases might be
beneficial.
Aicher suggested that staff might present the policy items separate from the budget items.
Henry appreciated the policy but still had questions about the numbers and where the goals came from.
Valde agreed and noted that the purpose was to address the turnover over the years; there are many
thoughtful observations, but a detailed conversation would be helpful. Valde has concerns about merit based
pay raises.
Henry asked about what is most important to the study in the opinion of the staff.
Hafner noted that even before the study was completed, he felt that the City pays employees well, but that the
City was deficient with two positions. The study reflected that observation. Getting to a competitive pay rate for
the deficient positions was extremely important. Additionally, implementing a merit component to increases is
important to encourage performance incentive.
Schneider stated that turnover is not as much an issue in the grand scheme of things, but there had been
conversations with regard to employees considering alternative employment opportunities. Having the
detailed information about the comparatives and being able to present the data that the City pays well is
helpful for retention and firing. Having the information and tools to continue to keep the and wages within a
competitive range going forward. The previous data was collected 20 years ago and did not present an
accurate base for the current market and hiring ranges. The step program and range is something that is
useful, even if the Council does not choose to adopt the exact proposed ranges presented. Schneider echoed
Hafner’s with regard to a preference for the merit component for wage increases.
Aicher asked about the possibility of policy standpoint and whether staff could present some action items.
Hafner stated that the Council has questions and feedback. Hafner suggested that Council could submit
questions in writing, and he and Schneider would welcome any questions. Alternatively, if Council would like a
Committee to meet with Hafner and Schneider to work through the perceived issues, Council could submit
concerns to the Committee representatives to ensure all questions and concerns are being addressed.
Laughland is not supportive of the report and did not feel that the comparatives based on salary were
appropriate. There are other important items that were not considered.
Aicher asked if there was a constructive wat to carry the conversation forward in a subcommittee or otherwise.
Henry would like to start with one meeting to go through the report in detail and see what the next course of
action may be.
Aicher asked the Council to submit questions to Administrator Hafner and Clerk Schneider to clarify the items
in question. The Council needs to commit to critiquing the report, asking questions, and making headway with
the report. A subcommittee could prolong the process and isn ’t really necessary to get questions or concerns
answered.
Hafner noted that he had a planned vacation and having items addressed by the next meeting may be a
challenge.
Aicher encouraged Council to submit questions, and schedules will be worked around. There are elements
that the City would be best served to implement, and the Council should work towards moving forward with this
within the next few months.
Discussion and direction to staff regarding various elements of the WisDOT Genesee Street/CTH“C”
Bridge Replacement Project currently scheduled for construction in 2029. Consideration of the following
Public Works Committee Recommendations:
l Recommend a shared 10 -foot protected multi -use path with a barrier wall on the east side of the
bridge only, instead of the dedicated bike accommodation and sidewalk on both the east and west
sides.
l Recommend a 10 -foot shared multi -use path be installed from Poplar Path to the bridge and from
the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5 -foot sidewalk.
l Recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall
for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent decorative finish on all sides, and
recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing I -41 20th Avenue Bridge in
Oshkosh.
l Recommend not staining or painting the decorative parapet walls due to maintenance issues, but
instead either keep the natural concrete color or use colored concrete.
l The city sailboat logo is low maintenance and is recommended.
l Concurrence with the Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
l Recommend including the “Highway C” name for the crossroad identification on the outside of the
parapet walls in both directions.
Hafner summarized that the Council had reviewed this the previous month and had asked the Public Works
Committee and Plan Commission to review the project and the Council design preferences. The Public Works
Committee reviewed the items and their recommendations were provided. If the Council can agree on
preferred directions, then the DOT can create a rendering and cost estimate, which can then can go to Plan
Commission for a recommendation back to Council.
Hafner reviewed the Public Works Committee recommendations. The Public Works Committee recommends
a 10-foot path to keep in line with the bike path plan. The DOT is supportive of this proposed path, which would
be a bit wider that Public Works Committee proposed. The barrier wall may not be a workable item. If there is
no barrier wall, the trail would be 16 ’ wide. With the barrier wall it would be 12 ’ wide.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Pavin, to move forward with the recommendation of the recreational trail
on the east side of the bridge.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended that the tie -in from Poplar Path and Indian
Spring Drive also be a 10 -foot multi use path.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Valde, to recommend a 10-foot shared multi-use path be installed from
Poplar Path to the bridge and from the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5-foot sidewalk.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended a consistent design on the inside and
outside of the bridge, and they also recommended a brick form liner as opposed to the Councils suggestion of
a fieldstone form liner. The design recommended is represented on the 20 th Avenue bridge in Oshkosh, which
was pictured in the meeting packet.
Michels asked about the blue hue in the picture under the stone design. Hafner noted the picture reference is
only regarding the stone design, and the bridge colors had not been discussed. At this time the elements
would be only concrete colored.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west
edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent
decorative finish on all sides, and recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing
I-41 20th Avenue Bridge in Oshkosh.
All in favor. Motion carried.
The Council had expressed a preference for some color elements in the design. Public Works Committee had
recommended against that due to maintenance issues, but instead recommended to either keep the natural
concrete color or use colored concrete.
Hafner explained that painting chips, but if the color were in the concrete, it would hold better. The color in the
concrete is an available option for a design element per the DOT.
Michels asked for a comparative example. Hafner suggested the HWY G bridge was the example related to
the color preference.
Henry suggested that color would not be necessary with the brick design, as that design adds depth. Wilken
concurred.
Hafner suggested perhaps requesting a rendering with color and without.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to get an example of color versus no color renderings.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner noted that the Public Works Committee concurred with the sailboat design element ad well as the
Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
The Public Works Committee recommended the Highway C name element based on the existing signage on
I-94.
Pavin added that the “City of Delafield ” could not be included on the bridge.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Valde, to recommend including the “Highway C” name for the bridge
signage and to include the logo.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Mayor's Report
Aicher reported that the Lake Country Fire & Rescue IMA Amendment signing was completed on June 3. There
was a Chamber Golf outing on June 5. Hawks Inn had their Rhubarb Fest on June 6, and a Heritage Hike occurred
in a joint effort with the American Legion, Hawks Inn and the Ice Age Trail.
Accept resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to
expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Aicher explained Hussinger is slowly transitioning towards retirement.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to accept
the resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to expire
04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Confirm appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield Building Inspector position vacated by
Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to confirm the appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield
Building Inspector position vacated by Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
New Business
Discussion and possible action regarding Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint Ronald J.
Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended by the
Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Hafner explained that Judge Kay had resigned. An interim judge had been assigned, but an appointment from
one of the member committees is required. A unanimous vote in support of Sonderhouse occurred and the
Administrative Committee. There must be unanimous decision by all municipalities.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to adopt Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint
Ronald J. Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended
by the Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Motion carried with Laughland abstaining.
Review of the 2025 City of Delafield Audit, including the Financial Statement Overview, Financial
Statements with Independent Auditor’s Report, and Required Audit Communications to the City Council,
as prepared by Johnson Block & Company.
Hafner reviewed the Audit documents provided in the ePacket. The budget surplus came in more than
expected and there was an actual budget surplus of $989,000. Thie equated to an additional $710,000
contribution to the fund balance. Hafner reviewed the items that resulted in the surplus. This puts the City in a
good financial situation with the ending of the ARPA funding and the referendum. The excess fund balance will
assist with the structural deficit projected.
Approval of Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of 5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of
5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Report of City Officials
City Administrator
Update regarding the June 9, 2026, Bids and Sale of City’s General Obligation Promissory Notes,
Series 2026A.
The bond sale occurred and the parameters were met. The interest rate came in at 3.2% and
included a premium which went into the debt service fund. Additianl information was provided in the
packet.
Amended Lake Country Fire & Rescue Intermunicipal Agreement has been finalized and was signed
by all seven member municipalities at ceremonial signing event held on June 3, 2026.
Hafner also noted the IMA amendment was finalized.
City Clerk
Schneider stated that absentee ballots would be mailed the following week and reminded residents to get their
applications in. Aicher asked if there was a preference for absentee voters versus in -person voters. Schneider
explained that ta balance between the two is preferred to prevent issues with bottlenecking with in -person
voting or absentee processing.
Welcome Kate Bach to the City of Delafield Clerk's Office Staff.
Schneider stated that the Clerk ’s Office had filled the vacant position. Kate Bach had started the
week prior, and she is learning quickly and fitting in well.
City Treasurer
April 2026 Treasurer's Report
Council Requests for Future Agenda Items
Price requested for the next meeting obtaining easements for the neighbors on Lakewood Court for the
purpose of maintaining a natural barricade in the future.
Correspondence
Adjournment
Having no further business, the June 16, 20 Common Council meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Molly Schneider, City Clerk
1.
2.
3.
4.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
5.
6.
A.
i.
B.
C.
7.
A.
8.
A.
i.
ii.
iii.
B.
i.
a.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
i.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
9.
A.
B.
10.
A.
B.
11.
A.
B.
C.
12.
A.
i.
ii.
B.
i.
C.
i.
D.
13.
14.
DRAFT
Common Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM
**CITY HALL COMMON COUNCIL CHAMBERS**
500 Genesee Street, Delafield, WI 53018
Mayor: Tim Aicher
Council President: Alderperson Dirk Wilken (D4)
Alderpersons: Danielle Henry (D1), Mark Schaefer (D2), Jackie Valde (D3), George Pavin (D5), Paul Price (D6), Stephen
Laughland (D7)
6/15/2026 - Minutes
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Roll Call
Alderpersons Present: Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken, Ald. D4;
George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Also present: Tim Aicher, Mayor; Tom Hafner, City Administrator/DPW Director; Jim Carroll, City Attorney; Molly
Schneider, City Clerk
Minutes
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes of the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting, the April
21, 2026, Organizational Meeting, and the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of the Minutes from the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the minutes from the April 21, 2026, Organizational Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 18, 2026 Regular Meeting.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes from the May 18, 2026, Regular Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Wilken and Pavin abstaining.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to approve the minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Valde abstaining.
City of Delafield Citizen Comments
Hearing no one who wished to speak, Citizen's Comments were closed.
Announcement of Matters for Possible Closed Session
Mayor Aicher announced the matters for possible Closed Session.
Motion to convene in Closed Session pursuant to the following provisions:
Motion to convene into closed session pursuant to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds, or
conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a
closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the City ’s labor
attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a successor agreement
between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of Delafield (current agreement
is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, at 7:04 PM, to convene into closed session pursuant
to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds,
or conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons
require a closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the
City’s labor attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a
successor agreement between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of
Delafield (current agreement is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Roll Call Vote:
AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Also present for the closed session were Mayor Aicher, Administrator Hafner, Attorney Carrol, Chief
Nyren, and Clerk Schneider.
Motion to re-convene into Open Session.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Henry, to re-convene into Open Session at 7:57 PM.
Roll Call Vote: AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding items discussed in Closed Session.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, that the bargaining committee for the Police contract negotiations
include Mayor Aicher, Alderperson Jackie Valde, and Alderperson Steve Michels, as well as
Administrator Hafner.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the consent agenda, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of Resolution 2026-10 regarding the City’s 2025 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report
(CMAR) submittal to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for the City ’s wastewater
collection system.
Boards, Committees, and Commission Reports
Licenses
Discussion and possible action regarding approval of an AB-105 Application for Kellermeister
Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest, sponsored by Divine
Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Schneider explained this was another AB-105 application for a Brewery to hold temporary retail
location at an event. The event is at Divine Redeemer on September 13, 2026.
Chad Ostram, was present to discuss the application.
Motion by Laughland, seconded by Henry, to approve the AB -105 application for
Kellermeister Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest,
sponsored by Divine Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin
Department of Revenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action to approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside
Dr., Delafield, WI 53018, which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C”
Wine License to allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51
(3m), with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application
corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that Hillside is now requesting a “ Class C” Wine License. requirements for a
Wine License have changed, which allows for more businesses to obtain a Wine License. This
business is no longer restricted by the requirement of having to have a minimum amount of gross
receipts be from food. Hillside already holds a Class “B” Beer license.
Michels asked if issuing this would cost a limited license. Schneider explained this was not a
license type that was restricted by a quota.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to
approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside Dr., Delafield, WI 53018,
which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C” Wine License to
allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51(3m), with
issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application corrections,
and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding the approval of granting the 2026-2027 Alcohol Beverage
Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of
application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that the renewals were all in, but there were issues with application forms being
completed correctly that are still being sorted out, as there are every year. Background checks are
in the hands of the Police Department, and staff runs a final report for outstanding debts prior to
issuing the licenses. Approval should be contingent upon these items, which are listed in the
agenda language.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to approve the granting the 2026 -2027 Alcohol
Beverage Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks,
completion of application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Plan Commission
Wilken reported the Plan Commission welcomed three new businesses and there were two Public Hearings
that were continued to the next month.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Following Items:
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue. Owner: Cedar Square III LLC. Applicant: John Barker,
501 Maple, LLC. Applicant requests approval of a Stormwater Maintenance Agreement to
accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Laughland, to approve the Stormwater Maintenance Agreement
to accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development, for the property located at
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Lake Welfare Committee
Price reported that the Lake Welfare Committee discussed stormwater runoff on the east side of the lake on
Lakewood Court. The Lake Welfare Committee would like to obtain easements to address the issue. Hafner
explained that there is a deep ravine that runs along Lakewood Court that serves as regional drainage but is
on private property. The property has become very unstable and when there is a rainfall event, significant
amounts of sediment end up in the lake. Not all adjacent property owners are interested in allowing an
easement.
Park & Recreation Commission/Tree Board
No meeting, no report.
Public Works Committee
Pavin reported that the Public Works Committee discussed the recommendations for the CTY HWY C bridge
project and determined that the St. Michael ’s entrance did not need to be reduced.
Del-Hart Commission
Aicher reported the officers were elected and the overall funcions of the plant are in good conditions.
Police Commission
No meeting, no report.
Library Board
Henry reported the Board discussed capitol planning for a Library expansion and will be asking for Council
support of the efforts in the future. The Summer programming is in full swing. The book sale is on Saturday
mornings.
June 2026 Library Director's Report
Zoning Board of Appeals
No meeting, no report.
Promotion & Tourism Commission
No meeting, no report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Commission
No report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Board
Michels reported the board met on May 20 th. A Chairman was appointed. The IMA was signed on June 3.
Budget meetings were set for August 19 th and September 9 th.
Deer Management Committee
The Deer Management Committee met on May 10.
Other Committees, Commissions, & Boards
Unfinished Business
Continuation of discussion of the draft City of Delafield Classification and Compensation Study and
possible action by the Council to provide direction to staff regarding any revisions to the draft study and
plan prior to its finalization for consideration of acceptance, approval, and/or adoption at a future
meeting.
Henry supported the report as a starting point. A subcommittee may be a good idea, and implementation
should be tied into the 2027 budget.
Michels agreed with Henry’s sentiment and also did not agree with moving to adopt the study as a whole.
Laughland echoed those sentiments.
Hafner asked about the thorough review and how that would be completed and how to see staff potentially
implement it into the budget.
Henry would like to understand in more detail how the plan was achieved.
Laughland noted that the study did not have any methodological foundation.
Aicher added that perhaps including some of the budgetary asks should be incorporated into the budget and
should go through the budgetary process. There were some HR items that might be helpful, such as the
establishment of grade levels for a hiring wage range and the hybrid approach for annual increases might be
beneficial.
Aicher suggested that staff might present the policy items separate from the budget items.
Henry appreciated the policy but still had questions about the numbers and where the goals came from.
Valde agreed and noted that the purpose was to address the turnover over the years; there are many
thoughtful observations, but a detailed conversation would be helpful. Valde has concerns about merit based
pay raises.
Henry asked about what is most important to the study in the opinion of the staff.
Hafner noted that even before the study was completed, he felt that the City pays employees well, but that the
City was deficient with two positions. The study reflected that observation. Getting to a competitive pay rate for
the deficient positions was extremely important. Additionally, implementing a merit component to increases is
important to encourage performance incentive.
Schneider stated that turnover is not as much an issue in the grand scheme of things, but there had been
conversations with regard to employees considering alternative employment opportunities. Having the
detailed information about the comparatives and being able to present the data that the City pays well is
helpful for retention and firing. Having the information and tools to continue to keep the and wages within a
competitive range going forward. The previous data was collected 20 years ago and did not present an
accurate base for the current market and hiring ranges. The step program and range is something that is
useful, even if the Council does not choose to adopt the exact proposed ranges presented. Schneider echoed
Hafner’s with regard to a preference for the merit component for wage increases.
Aicher asked about the possibility of policy standpoint and whether staff could present some action items.
Hafner stated that the Council has questions and feedback. Hafner suggested that Council could submit
questions in writing, and he and Schneider would welcome any questions. Alternatively, if Council would like a
Committee to meet with Hafner and Schneider to work through the perceived issues, Council could submit
concerns to the Committee representatives to ensure all questions and concerns are being addressed.
Laughland is not supportive of the report and did not feel that the comparatives based on salary were
appropriate. There are other important items that were not considered.
Aicher asked if there was a constructive wat to carry the conversation forward in a subcommittee or otherwise.
Henry would like to start with one meeting to go through the report in detail and see what the next course of
action may be.
Aicher asked the Council to submit questions to Administrator Hafner and Clerk Schneider to clarify the items
in question. The Council needs to commit to critiquing the report, asking questions, and making headway with
the report. A subcommittee could prolong the process and isn ’t really necessary to get questions or concerns
answered.
Hafner noted that he had a planned vacation and having items addressed by the next meeting may be a
challenge.
Aicher encouraged Council to submit questions, and schedules will be worked around. There are elements
that the City would be best served to implement, and the Council should work towards moving forward with this
within the next few months.
Discussion and direction to staff regarding various elements of the WisDOT Genesee Street/CTH“C”
Bridge Replacement Project currently scheduled for construction in 2029. Consideration of the following
Public Works Committee Recommendations:
l Recommend a shared 10 -foot protected multi -use path with a barrier wall on the east side of the
bridge only, instead of the dedicated bike accommodation and sidewalk on both the east and west
sides.
l Recommend a 10 -foot shared multi -use path be installed from Poplar Path to the bridge and from
the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5 -foot sidewalk.
l Recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall
for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent decorative finish on all sides, and
recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing I -41 20th Avenue Bridge in
Oshkosh.
l Recommend not staining or painting the decorative parapet walls due to maintenance issues, but
instead either keep the natural concrete color or use colored concrete.
l The city sailboat logo is low maintenance and is recommended.
l Concurrence with the Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
l Recommend including the “Highway C” name for the crossroad identification on the outside of the
parapet walls in both directions.
Hafner summarized that the Council had reviewed this the previous month and had asked the Public Works
Committee and Plan Commission to review the project and the Council design preferences. The Public Works
Committee reviewed the items and their recommendations were provided. If the Council can agree on
preferred directions, then the DOT can create a rendering and cost estimate, which can then can go to Plan
Commission for a recommendation back to Council.
Hafner reviewed the Public Works Committee recommendations. The Public Works Committee recommends
a 10-foot path to keep in line with the bike path plan. The DOT is supportive of this proposed path, which would
be a bit wider that Public Works Committee proposed. The barrier wall may not be a workable item. If there is
no barrier wall, the trail would be 16 ’ wide. With the barrier wall it would be 12 ’ wide.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Pavin, to move forward with the recommendation of the recreational trail
on the east side of the bridge.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended that the tie -in from Poplar Path and Indian
Spring Drive also be a 10 -foot multi use path.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Valde, to recommend a 10-foot shared multi-use path be installed from
Poplar Path to the bridge and from the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5-foot sidewalk.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended a consistent design on the inside and
outside of the bridge, and they also recommended a brick form liner as opposed to the Councils suggestion of
a fieldstone form liner. The design recommended is represented on the 20 th Avenue bridge in Oshkosh, which
was pictured in the meeting packet.
Michels asked about the blue hue in the picture under the stone design. Hafner noted the picture reference is
only regarding the stone design, and the bridge colors had not been discussed. At this time the elements
would be only concrete colored.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west
edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent
decorative finish on all sides, and recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing
I-41 20th Avenue Bridge in Oshkosh.
All in favor. Motion carried.
The Council had expressed a preference for some color elements in the design. Public Works Committee had
recommended against that due to maintenance issues, but instead recommended to either keep the natural
concrete color or use colored concrete.
Hafner explained that painting chips, but if the color were in the concrete, it would hold better. The color in the
concrete is an available option for a design element per the DOT.
Michels asked for a comparative example. Hafner suggested the HWY G bridge was the example related to
the color preference.
Henry suggested that color would not be necessary with the brick design, as that design adds depth. Wilken
concurred.
Hafner suggested perhaps requesting a rendering with color and without.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to get an example of color versus no color renderings.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner noted that the Public Works Committee concurred with the sailboat design element ad well as the
Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
The Public Works Committee recommended the Highway C name element based on the existing signage on
I-94.
Pavin added that the “City of Delafield ” could not be included on the bridge.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Valde, to recommend including the “Highway C” name for the bridge
signage and to include the logo.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Mayor's Report
Aicher reported that the Lake Country Fire & Rescue IMA Amendment signing was completed on June 3. There
was a Chamber Golf outing on June 5. Hawks Inn had their Rhubarb Fest on June 6, and a Heritage Hike occurred
in a joint effort with the American Legion, Hawks Inn and the Ice Age Trail.
Accept resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to
expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Aicher explained Hussinger is slowly transitioning towards retirement.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to accept
the resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to expire
04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Confirm appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield Building Inspector position vacated by
Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to confirm the appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield
Building Inspector position vacated by Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
New Business
Discussion and possible action regarding Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint Ronald J.
Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended by the
Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Hafner explained that Judge Kay had resigned. An interim judge had been assigned, but an appointment from
one of the member committees is required. A unanimous vote in support of Sonderhouse occurred and the
Administrative Committee. There must be unanimous decision by all municipalities.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to adopt Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint
Ronald J. Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended
by the Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Motion carried with Laughland abstaining.
Review of the 2025 City of Delafield Audit, including the Financial Statement Overview, Financial
Statements with Independent Auditor’s Report, and Required Audit Communications to the City Council,
as prepared by Johnson Block & Company.
Hafner reviewed the Audit documents provided in the ePacket. The budget surplus came in more than
expected and there was an actual budget surplus of $989,000. Thie equated to an additional $710,000
contribution to the fund balance. Hafner reviewed the items that resulted in the surplus. This puts the City in a
good financial situation with the ending of the ARPA funding and the referendum. The excess fund balance will
assist with the structural deficit projected.
Approval of Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of 5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of
5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Report of City Officials
City Administrator
Update regarding the June 9, 2026, Bids and Sale of City’s General Obligation Promissory Notes,
Series 2026A.
The bond sale occurred and the parameters were met. The interest rate came in at 3.2% and
included a premium which went into the debt service fund. Additianl information was provided in the
packet.
Amended Lake Country Fire & Rescue Intermunicipal Agreement has been finalized and was signed
by all seven member municipalities at ceremonial signing event held on June 3, 2026.
Hafner also noted the IMA amendment was finalized.
City Clerk
Schneider stated that absentee ballots would be mailed the following week and reminded residents to get their
applications in. Aicher asked if there was a preference for absentee voters versus in -person voters. Schneider
explained that ta balance between the two is preferred to prevent issues with bottlenecking with in -person
voting or absentee processing.
Welcome Kate Bach to the City of Delafield Clerk's Office Staff.
Schneider stated that the Clerk ’s Office had filled the vacant position. Kate Bach had started the
week prior, and she is learning quickly and fitting in well.
City Treasurer
April 2026 Treasurer's Report
Council Requests for Future Agenda Items
Price requested for the next meeting obtaining easements for the neighbors on Lakewood Court for the
purpose of maintaining a natural barricade in the future.
Correspondence
Adjournment
Having no further business, the June 16, 20 Common Council meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Molly Schneider, City Clerk
1.
2.
3.
4.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
5.
6.
A.
i.
B.
C.
7.
A.
8.
A.
i.
ii.
iii.
B.
i.
a.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
i.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
9.
A.
B.
10.
A.
B.
11.
A.
B.
C.
12.
A.
i.
ii.
B.
i.
C.
i.
D.
13.
14.
DRAFT
Common Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM
**CITY HALL COMMON COUNCIL CHAMBERS**
500 Genesee Street, Delafield, WI 53018
Mayor: Tim Aicher
Council President: Alderperson Dirk Wilken (D4)
Alderpersons: Danielle Henry (D1), Mark Schaefer (D2), Jackie Valde (D3), George Pavin (D5), Paul Price (D6), Stephen
Laughland (D7)
6/15/2026 - Minutes
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Roll Call
Alderpersons Present: Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken, Ald. D4;
George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Also present: Tim Aicher, Mayor; Tom Hafner, City Administrator/DPW Director; Jim Carroll, City Attorney; Molly
Schneider, City Clerk
Minutes
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes of the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting, the April
21, 2026, Organizational Meeting, and the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of the Minutes from the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the minutes from the April 21, 2026, Organizational Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 18, 2026 Regular Meeting.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes from the May 18, 2026, Regular Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Wilken and Pavin abstaining.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to approve the minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Valde abstaining.
City of Delafield Citizen Comments
Hearing no one who wished to speak, Citizen's Comments were closed.
Announcement of Matters for Possible Closed Session
Mayor Aicher announced the matters for possible Closed Session.
Motion to convene in Closed Session pursuant to the following provisions:
Motion to convene into closed session pursuant to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds, or
conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a
closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the City ’s labor
attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a successor agreement
between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of Delafield (current agreement
is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, at 7:04 PM, to convene into closed session pursuant
to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds,
or conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons
require a closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the
City’s labor attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a
successor agreement between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of
Delafield (current agreement is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Roll Call Vote:
AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Also present for the closed session were Mayor Aicher, Administrator Hafner, Attorney Carrol, Chief
Nyren, and Clerk Schneider.
Motion to re-convene into Open Session.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Henry, to re-convene into Open Session at 7:57 PM.
Roll Call Vote: AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding items discussed in Closed Session.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, that the bargaining committee for the Police contract negotiations
include Mayor Aicher, Alderperson Jackie Valde, and Alderperson Steve Michels, as well as
Administrator Hafner.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the consent agenda, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of Resolution 2026-10 regarding the City’s 2025 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report
(CMAR) submittal to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for the City ’s wastewater
collection system.
Boards, Committees, and Commission Reports
Licenses
Discussion and possible action regarding approval of an AB-105 Application for Kellermeister
Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest, sponsored by Divine
Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Schneider explained this was another AB-105 application for a Brewery to hold temporary retail
location at an event. The event is at Divine Redeemer on September 13, 2026.
Chad Ostram, was present to discuss the application.
Motion by Laughland, seconded by Henry, to approve the AB -105 application for
Kellermeister Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest,
sponsored by Divine Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin
Department of Revenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action to approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside
Dr., Delafield, WI 53018, which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C”
Wine License to allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51
(3m), with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application
corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that Hillside is now requesting a “ Class C” Wine License. requirements for a
Wine License have changed, which allows for more businesses to obtain a Wine License. This
business is no longer restricted by the requirement of having to have a minimum amount of gross
receipts be from food. Hillside already holds a Class “B” Beer license.
Michels asked if issuing this would cost a limited license. Schneider explained this was not a
license type that was restricted by a quota.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to
approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside Dr., Delafield, WI 53018,
which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C” Wine License to
allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51(3m), with
issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application corrections,
and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding the approval of granting the 2026-2027 Alcohol Beverage
Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of
application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that the renewals were all in, but there were issues with application forms being
completed correctly that are still being sorted out, as there are every year. Background checks are
in the hands of the Police Department, and staff runs a final report for outstanding debts prior to
issuing the licenses. Approval should be contingent upon these items, which are listed in the
agenda language.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to approve the granting the 2026 -2027 Alcohol
Beverage Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks,
completion of application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Plan Commission
Wilken reported the Plan Commission welcomed three new businesses and there were two Public Hearings
that were continued to the next month.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Following Items:
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue. Owner: Cedar Square III LLC. Applicant: John Barker,
501 Maple, LLC. Applicant requests approval of a Stormwater Maintenance Agreement to
accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Laughland, to approve the Stormwater Maintenance Agreement
to accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development, for the property located at
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Lake Welfare Committee
Price reported that the Lake Welfare Committee discussed stormwater runoff on the east side of the lake on
Lakewood Court. The Lake Welfare Committee would like to obtain easements to address the issue. Hafner
explained that there is a deep ravine that runs along Lakewood Court that serves as regional drainage but is
on private property. The property has become very unstable and when there is a rainfall event, significant
amounts of sediment end up in the lake. Not all adjacent property owners are interested in allowing an
easement.
Park & Recreation Commission/Tree Board
No meeting, no report.
Public Works Committee
Pavin reported that the Public Works Committee discussed the recommendations for the CTY HWY C bridge
project and determined that the St. Michael ’s entrance did not need to be reduced.
Del-Hart Commission
Aicher reported the officers were elected and the overall funcions of the plant are in good conditions.
Police Commission
No meeting, no report.
Library Board
Henry reported the Board discussed capitol planning for a Library expansion and will be asking for Council
support of the efforts in the future. The Summer programming is in full swing. The book sale is on Saturday
mornings.
June 2026 Library Director's Report
Zoning Board of Appeals
No meeting, no report.
Promotion & Tourism Commission
No meeting, no report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Commission
No report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Board
Michels reported the board met on May 20 th. A Chairman was appointed. The IMA was signed on June 3.
Budget meetings were set for August 19 th and September 9 th.
Deer Management Committee
The Deer Management Committee met on May 10.
Other Committees, Commissions, & Boards
Unfinished Business
Continuation of discussion of the draft City of Delafield Classification and Compensation Study and
possible action by the Council to provide direction to staff regarding any revisions to the draft study and
plan prior to its finalization for consideration of acceptance, approval, and/or adoption at a future
meeting.
Henry supported the report as a starting point. A subcommittee may be a good idea, and implementation
should be tied into the 2027 budget.
Michels agreed with Henry’s sentiment and also did not agree with moving to adopt the study as a whole.
Laughland echoed those sentiments.
Hafner asked about the thorough review and how that would be completed and how to see staff potentially
implement it into the budget.
Henry would like to understand in more detail how the plan was achieved.
Laughland noted that the study did not have any methodological foundation.
Aicher added that perhaps including some of the budgetary asks should be incorporated into the budget and
should go through the budgetary process. There were some HR items that might be helpful, such as the
establishment of grade levels for a hiring wage range and the hybrid approach for annual increases might be
beneficial.
Aicher suggested that staff might present the policy items separate from the budget items.
Henry appreciated the policy but still had questions about the numbers and where the goals came from.
Valde agreed and noted that the purpose was to address the turnover over the years; there are many
thoughtful observations, but a detailed conversation would be helpful. Valde has concerns about merit based
pay raises.
Henry asked about what is most important to the study in the opinion of the staff.
Hafner noted that even before the study was completed, he felt that the City pays employees well, but that the
City was deficient with two positions. The study reflected that observation. Getting to a competitive pay rate for
the deficient positions was extremely important. Additionally, implementing a merit component to increases is
important to encourage performance incentive.
Schneider stated that turnover is not as much an issue in the grand scheme of things, but there had been
conversations with regard to employees considering alternative employment opportunities. Having the
detailed information about the comparatives and being able to present the data that the City pays well is
helpful for retention and firing. Having the information and tools to continue to keep the and wages within a
competitive range going forward. The previous data was collected 20 years ago and did not present an
accurate base for the current market and hiring ranges. The step program and range is something that is
useful, even if the Council does not choose to adopt the exact proposed ranges presented. Schneider echoed
Hafner’s with regard to a preference for the merit component for wage increases.
Aicher asked about the possibility of policy standpoint and whether staff could present some action items.
Hafner stated that the Council has questions and feedback. Hafner suggested that Council could submit
questions in writing, and he and Schneider would welcome any questions. Alternatively, if Council would like a
Committee to meet with Hafner and Schneider to work through the perceived issues, Council could submit
concerns to the Committee representatives to ensure all questions and concerns are being addressed.
Laughland is not supportive of the report and did not feel that the comparatives based on salary were
appropriate. There are other important items that were not considered.
Aicher asked if there was a constructive wat to carry the conversation forward in a subcommittee or otherwise.
Henry would like to start with one meeting to go through the report in detail and see what the next course of
action may be.
Aicher asked the Council to submit questions to Administrator Hafner and Clerk Schneider to clarify the items
in question. The Council needs to commit to critiquing the report, asking questions, and making headway with
the report. A subcommittee could prolong the process and isn ’t really necessary to get questions or concerns
answered.
Hafner noted that he had a planned vacation and having items addressed by the next meeting may be a
challenge.
Aicher encouraged Council to submit questions, and schedules will be worked around. There are elements
that the City would be best served to implement, and the Council should work towards moving forward with this
within the next few months.
Discussion and direction to staff regarding various elements of the WisDOT Genesee Street/CTH“C”
Bridge Replacement Project currently scheduled for construction in 2029. Consideration of the following
Public Works Committee Recommendations:
l Recommend a shared 10 -foot protected multi -use path with a barrier wall on the east side of the
bridge only, instead of the dedicated bike accommodation and sidewalk on both the east and west
sides.
l Recommend a 10 -foot shared multi -use path be installed from Poplar Path to the bridge and from
the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5 -foot sidewalk.
l Recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall
for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent decorative finish on all sides, and
recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing I -41 20th Avenue Bridge in
Oshkosh.
l Recommend not staining or painting the decorative parapet walls due to maintenance issues, but
instead either keep the natural concrete color or use colored concrete.
l The city sailboat logo is low maintenance and is recommended.
l Concurrence with the Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
l Recommend including the “Highway C” name for the crossroad identification on the outside of the
parapet walls in both directions.
Hafner summarized that the Council had reviewed this the previous month and had asked the Public Works
Committee and Plan Commission to review the project and the Council design preferences. The Public Works
Committee reviewed the items and their recommendations were provided. If the Council can agree on
preferred directions, then the DOT can create a rendering and cost estimate, which can then can go to Plan
Commission for a recommendation back to Council.
Hafner reviewed the Public Works Committee recommendations. The Public Works Committee recommends
a 10-foot path to keep in line with the bike path plan. The DOT is supportive of this proposed path, which would
be a bit wider that Public Works Committee proposed. The barrier wall may not be a workable item. If there is
no barrier wall, the trail would be 16 ’ wide. With the barrier wall it would be 12 ’ wide.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Pavin, to move forward with the recommendation of the recreational trail
on the east side of the bridge.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended that the tie -in from Poplar Path and Indian
Spring Drive also be a 10 -foot multi use path.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Valde, to recommend a 10-foot shared multi-use path be installed from
Poplar Path to the bridge and from the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5-foot sidewalk.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended a consistent design on the inside and
outside of the bridge, and they also recommended a brick form liner as opposed to the Councils suggestion of
a fieldstone form liner. The design recommended is represented on the 20 th Avenue bridge in Oshkosh, which
was pictured in the meeting packet.
Michels asked about the blue hue in the picture under the stone design. Hafner noted the picture reference is
only regarding the stone design, and the bridge colors had not been discussed. At this time the elements
would be only concrete colored.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west
edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent
decorative finish on all sides, and recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing
I-41 20th Avenue Bridge in Oshkosh.
All in favor. Motion carried.
The Council had expressed a preference for some color elements in the design. Public Works Committee had
recommended against that due to maintenance issues, but instead recommended to either keep the natural
concrete color or use colored concrete.
Hafner explained that painting chips, but if the color were in the concrete, it would hold better. The color in the
concrete is an available option for a design element per the DOT.
Michels asked for a comparative example. Hafner suggested the HWY G bridge was the example related to
the color preference.
Henry suggested that color would not be necessary with the brick design, as that design adds depth. Wilken
concurred.
Hafner suggested perhaps requesting a rendering with color and without.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to get an example of color versus no color renderings.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner noted that the Public Works Committee concurred with the sailboat design element ad well as the
Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
The Public Works Committee recommended the Highway C name element based on the existing signage on
I-94.
Pavin added that the “City of Delafield ” could not be included on the bridge.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Valde, to recommend including the “Highway C” name for the bridge
signage and to include the logo.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Mayor's Report
Aicher reported that the Lake Country Fire & Rescue IMA Amendment signing was completed on June 3. There
was a Chamber Golf outing on June 5. Hawks Inn had their Rhubarb Fest on June 6, and a Heritage Hike occurred
in a joint effort with the American Legion, Hawks Inn and the Ice Age Trail.
Accept resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to
expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Aicher explained Hussinger is slowly transitioning towards retirement.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to accept
the resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to expire
04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Confirm appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield Building Inspector position vacated by
Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to confirm the appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield
Building Inspector position vacated by Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
New Business
Discussion and possible action regarding Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint Ronald J.
Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended by the
Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Hafner explained that Judge Kay had resigned. An interim judge had been assigned, but an appointment from
one of the member committees is required. A unanimous vote in support of Sonderhouse occurred and the
Administrative Committee. There must be unanimous decision by all municipalities.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to adopt Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint
Ronald J. Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended
by the Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Motion carried with Laughland abstaining.
Review of the 2025 City of Delafield Audit, including the Financial Statement Overview, Financial
Statements with Independent Auditor’s Report, and Required Audit Communications to the City Council,
as prepared by Johnson Block & Company.
Hafner reviewed the Audit documents provided in the ePacket. The budget surplus came in more than
expected and there was an actual budget surplus of $989,000. Thie equated to an additional $710,000
contribution to the fund balance. Hafner reviewed the items that resulted in the surplus. This puts the City in a
good financial situation with the ending of the ARPA funding and the referendum. The excess fund balance will
assist with the structural deficit projected.
Approval of Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of 5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of
5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Report of City Officials
City Administrator
Update regarding the June 9, 2026, Bids and Sale of City’s General Obligation Promissory Notes,
Series 2026A.
The bond sale occurred and the parameters were met. The interest rate came in at 3.2% and
included a premium which went into the debt service fund. Additianl information was provided in the
packet.
Amended Lake Country Fire & Rescue Intermunicipal Agreement has been finalized and was signed
by all seven member municipalities at ceremonial signing event held on June 3, 2026.
Hafner also noted the IMA amendment was finalized.
City Clerk
Schneider stated that absentee ballots would be mailed the following week and reminded residents to get their
applications in. Aicher asked if there was a preference for absentee voters versus in -person voters. Schneider
explained that ta balance between the two is preferred to prevent issues with bottlenecking with in -person
voting or absentee processing.
Welcome Kate Bach to the City of Delafield Clerk's Office Staff.
Schneider stated that the Clerk ’s Office had filled the vacant position. Kate Bach had started the
week prior, and she is learning quickly and fitting in well.
City Treasurer
April 2026 Treasurer's Report
Council Requests for Future Agenda Items
Price requested for the next meeting obtaining easements for the neighbors on Lakewood Court for the
purpose of maintaining a natural barricade in the future.
Correspondence
Adjournment
Having no further business, the June 16, 20 Common Council meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Molly Schneider, City Clerk
1.
2.
3.
4.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
5.
6.
A.
i.
B.
C.
7.
A.
8.
A.
i.
ii.
iii.
B.
i.
a.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
i.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
9.
A.
B.
10.
A.
B.
11.
A.
B.
C.
12.
A.
i.
ii.
B.
i.
C.
i.
D.
13.
14.
DRAFT
Common Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM
**CITY HALL COMMON COUNCIL CHAMBERS**
500 Genesee Street, Delafield, WI 53018
Mayor: Tim Aicher
Council President: Alderperson Dirk Wilken (D4)
Alderpersons: Danielle Henry (D1), Mark Schaefer (D2), Jackie Valde (D3), George Pavin (D5), Paul Price (D6), Stephen
Laughland (D7)
6/15/2026 - Minutes
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Roll Call
Alderpersons Present: Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken, Ald. D4;
George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Also present: Tim Aicher, Mayor; Tom Hafner, City Administrator/DPW Director; Jim Carroll, City Attorney; Molly
Schneider, City Clerk
Minutes
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes of the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting, the April
21, 2026, Organizational Meeting, and the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of the Minutes from the April 20, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the minutes from the April 21, 2026, Organizational Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 18, 2026 Regular Meeting.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Price, to approve the minutes from the May 18, 2026, Regular Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Wilken and Pavin abstaining.
Approval of the Minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to approve the minutes from the May 27, 2026, Special Meeting, as
presented.
Motion carried with Valde abstaining.
City of Delafield Citizen Comments
Hearing no one who wished to speak, Citizen's Comments were closed.
Announcement of Matters for Possible Closed Session
Mayor Aicher announced the matters for possible Closed Session.
Motion to convene in Closed Session pursuant to the following provisions:
Motion to convene into closed session pursuant to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds, or
conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a
closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the City ’s labor
attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a successor agreement
between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of Delafield (current agreement
is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, at 7:04 PM, to convene into closed session pursuant
to the provisions of Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e),
Deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds,
or conducting other specified public business, whenever competitive or bargaining reasons
require a closed session, more specifically, discussion between the City Council and the
City’s labor attorney to provide direction regarding the upcoming collective bargaining for a
successor agreement between the Delafield Professional Police Association and the City of
Delafield (current agreement is set to expire on December 31,2026).
Roll Call Vote:
AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Also present for the closed session were Mayor Aicher, Administrator Hafner, Attorney Carrol, Chief
Nyren, and Clerk Schneider.
Motion to re-convene into Open Session.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Henry, to re-convene into Open Session at 7:57 PM.
Roll Call Vote: AYES - Danielle Henry, Ald D1; Steve Michels, Ald. D2; Jackie Valde, Ald. D3; Dirk Wilken,
Ald. D4; George Pavin, Ald. D5; Paul Price, Ald. D6; Stephen Laughland, Ald. D7
Nayes: None
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding items discussed in Closed Session.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Price, that the bargaining committee for the Police contract negotiations
include Mayor Aicher, Alderperson Jackie Valde, and Alderperson Steve Michels, as well as
Administrator Hafner.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the consent agenda, as presented.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Approval of Resolution 2026-10 regarding the City’s 2025 Compliance Maintenance Annual Report
(CMAR) submittal to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for the City ’s wastewater
collection system.
Boards, Committees, and Commission Reports
Licenses
Discussion and possible action regarding approval of an AB-105 Application for Kellermeister
Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest, sponsored by Divine
Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Schneider explained this was another AB-105 application for a Brewery to hold temporary retail
location at an event. The event is at Divine Redeemer on September 13, 2026.
Chad Ostram, was present to discuss the application.
Motion by Laughland, seconded by Henry, to approve the AB -105 application for
Kellermeister Beverages LLC, to serve alcohol at the Divine Redeemer Octoberfest,
sponsored by Divine Redeemer, on September 13, 2026, as required by the Wisconsin
Department of Revenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action to approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside
Dr., Delafield, WI 53018, which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C”
Wine License to allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51
(3m), with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application
corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that Hillside is now requesting a “ Class C” Wine License. requirements for a
Wine License have changed, which allows for more businesses to obtain a Wine License. This
business is no longer restricted by the requirement of having to have a minimum amount of gross
receipts be from food. Hillside already holds a Class “B” Beer license.
Michels asked if issuing this would cost a limited license. Schneider explained this was not a
license type that was restricted by a quota.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to
approve the request by Hillside Cinema, located at 2950 Hillside Dr., Delafield, WI 53018,
which already holds a Class “B” Beer License, to grant a Class “Class C” Wine License to
allow for consumption wine on premises in accordance with Wis. Stats. 125.51(3m), with
issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of application corrections,
and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Discussion and possible action regarding the approval of granting the 2026-2027 Alcohol Beverage
Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks, completion of
application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
Schneider explained that the renewals were all in, but there were issues with application forms being
completed correctly that are still being sorted out, as there are every year. Background checks are
in the hands of the Police Department, and staff runs a final report for outstanding debts prior to
issuing the licenses. Approval should be contingent upon these items, which are listed in the
agenda language.
Motion by Michels, seconded by Laughland, to approve the granting the 2026 -2027 Alcohol
Beverage Retail License renewals, with issuance pending any remaining background checks,
completion of application corrections, and confirmation of debt clearance.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Plan Commission
Wilken reported the Plan Commission welcomed three new businesses and there were two Public Hearings
that were continued to the next month.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Following Items:
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue. Owner: Cedar Square III LLC. Applicant: John Barker,
501 Maple, LLC. Applicant requests approval of a Stormwater Maintenance Agreement to
accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Laughland, to approve the Stormwater Maintenance Agreement
to accommodate a 16-unit residential condominium development, for the property located at
DELC0808985002, 501 Maple Avenue.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Lake Welfare Committee
Price reported that the Lake Welfare Committee discussed stormwater runoff on the east side of the lake on
Lakewood Court. The Lake Welfare Committee would like to obtain easements to address the issue. Hafner
explained that there is a deep ravine that runs along Lakewood Court that serves as regional drainage but is
on private property. The property has become very unstable and when there is a rainfall event, significant
amounts of sediment end up in the lake. Not all adjacent property owners are interested in allowing an
easement.
Park & Recreation Commission/Tree Board
No meeting, no report.
Public Works Committee
Pavin reported that the Public Works Committee discussed the recommendations for the CTY HWY C bridge
project and determined that the St. Michael ’s entrance did not need to be reduced.
Del-Hart Commission
Aicher reported the officers were elected and the overall funcions of the plant are in good conditions.
Police Commission
No meeting, no report.
Library Board
Henry reported the Board discussed capitol planning for a Library expansion and will be asking for Council
support of the efforts in the future. The Summer programming is in full swing. The book sale is on Saturday
mornings.
June 2026 Library Director's Report
Zoning Board of Appeals
No meeting, no report.
Promotion & Tourism Commission
No meeting, no report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Commission
No report.
Lake Country Fire & Rescue Board
Michels reported the board met on May 20 th. A Chairman was appointed. The IMA was signed on June 3.
Budget meetings were set for August 19 th and September 9 th.
Deer Management Committee
The Deer Management Committee met on May 10.
Other Committees, Commissions, & Boards
Unfinished Business
Continuation of discussion of the draft City of Delafield Classification and Compensation Study and
possible action by the Council to provide direction to staff regarding any revisions to the draft study and
plan prior to its finalization for consideration of acceptance, approval, and/or adoption at a future
meeting.
Henry supported the report as a starting point. A subcommittee may be a good idea, and implementation
should be tied into the 2027 budget.
Michels agreed with Henry’s sentiment and also did not agree with moving to adopt the study as a whole.
Laughland echoed those sentiments.
Hafner asked about the thorough review and how that would be completed and how to see staff potentially
implement it into the budget.
Henry would like to understand in more detail how the plan was achieved.
Laughland noted that the study did not have any methodological foundation.
Aicher added that perhaps including some of the budgetary asks should be incorporated into the budget and
should go through the budgetary process. There were some HR items that might be helpful, such as the
establishment of grade levels for a hiring wage range and the hybrid approach for annual increases might be
beneficial.
Aicher suggested that staff might present the policy items separate from the budget items.
Henry appreciated the policy but still had questions about the numbers and where the goals came from.
Valde agreed and noted that the purpose was to address the turnover over the years; there are many
thoughtful observations, but a detailed conversation would be helpful. Valde has concerns about merit based
pay raises.
Henry asked about what is most important to the study in the opinion of the staff.
Hafner noted that even before the study was completed, he felt that the City pays employees well, but that the
City was deficient with two positions. The study reflected that observation. Getting to a competitive pay rate for
the deficient positions was extremely important. Additionally, implementing a merit component to increases is
important to encourage performance incentive.
Schneider stated that turnover is not as much an issue in the grand scheme of things, but there had been
conversations with regard to employees considering alternative employment opportunities. Having the
detailed information about the comparatives and being able to present the data that the City pays well is
helpful for retention and firing. Having the information and tools to continue to keep the and wages within a
competitive range going forward. The previous data was collected 20 years ago and did not present an
accurate base for the current market and hiring ranges. The step program and range is something that is
useful, even if the Council does not choose to adopt the exact proposed ranges presented. Schneider echoed
Hafner’s with regard to a preference for the merit component for wage increases.
Aicher asked about the possibility of policy standpoint and whether staff could present some action items.
Hafner stated that the Council has questions and feedback. Hafner suggested that Council could submit
questions in writing, and he and Schneider would welcome any questions. Alternatively, if Council would like a
Committee to meet with Hafner and Schneider to work through the perceived issues, Council could submit
concerns to the Committee representatives to ensure all questions and concerns are being addressed.
Laughland is not supportive of the report and did not feel that the comparatives based on salary were
appropriate. There are other important items that were not considered.
Aicher asked if there was a constructive wat to carry the conversation forward in a subcommittee or otherwise.
Henry would like to start with one meeting to go through the report in detail and see what the next course of
action may be.
Aicher asked the Council to submit questions to Administrator Hafner and Clerk Schneider to clarify the items
in question. The Council needs to commit to critiquing the report, asking questions, and making headway with
the report. A subcommittee could prolong the process and isn ’t really necessary to get questions or concerns
answered.
Hafner noted that he had a planned vacation and having items addressed by the next meeting may be a
challenge.
Aicher encouraged Council to submit questions, and schedules will be worked around. There are elements
that the City would be best served to implement, and the Council should work towards moving forward with this
within the next few months.
Discussion and direction to staff regarding various elements of the WisDOT Genesee Street/CTH“C”
Bridge Replacement Project currently scheduled for construction in 2029. Consideration of the following
Public Works Committee Recommendations:
l Recommend a shared 10 -foot protected multi -use path with a barrier wall on the east side of the
bridge only, instead of the dedicated bike accommodation and sidewalk on both the east and west
sides.
l Recommend a 10 -foot shared multi -use path be installed from Poplar Path to the bridge and from
the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5 -foot sidewalk.
l Recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall
for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent decorative finish on all sides, and
recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing I -41 20th Avenue Bridge in
Oshkosh.
l Recommend not staining or painting the decorative parapet walls due to maintenance issues, but
instead either keep the natural concrete color or use colored concrete.
l The city sailboat logo is low maintenance and is recommended.
l Concurrence with the Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
l Recommend including the “Highway C” name for the crossroad identification on the outside of the
parapet walls in both directions.
Hafner summarized that the Council had reviewed this the previous month and had asked the Public Works
Committee and Plan Commission to review the project and the Council design preferences. The Public Works
Committee reviewed the items and their recommendations were provided. If the Council can agree on
preferred directions, then the DOT can create a rendering and cost estimate, which can then can go to Plan
Commission for a recommendation back to Council.
Hafner reviewed the Public Works Committee recommendations. The Public Works Committee recommends
a 10-foot path to keep in line with the bike path plan. The DOT is supportive of this proposed path, which would
be a bit wider that Public Works Committee proposed. The barrier wall may not be a workable item. If there is
no barrier wall, the trail would be 16 ’ wide. With the barrier wall it would be 12 ’ wide.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Pavin, to move forward with the recommendation of the recreational trail
on the east side of the bridge.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended that the tie -in from Poplar Path and Indian
Spring Drive also be a 10 -foot multi use path.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Valde, to recommend a 10-foot shared multi-use path be installed from
Poplar Path to the bridge and from the bridge to Indian Spring Drive, instead of a 5-foot sidewalk.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner explained that the Public Works Committee recommended a consistent design on the inside and
outside of the bridge, and they also recommended a brick form liner as opposed to the Councils suggestion of
a fieldstone form liner. The design recommended is represented on the 20 th Avenue bridge in Oshkosh, which
was pictured in the meeting packet.
Michels asked about the blue hue in the picture under the stone design. Hafner noted the picture reference is
only regarding the stone design, and the bridge colors had not been discussed. At this time the elements
would be only concrete colored.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to recommend that the parapet walls along the east and west
edges of the bridge, and any barrier wall for a multi-use path across the bridge, should be a consistent
decorative finish on all sides, and recommend using a block stone form liner design similar to the existing
I-41 20th Avenue Bridge in Oshkosh.
All in favor. Motion carried.
The Council had expressed a preference for some color elements in the design. Public Works Committee had
recommended against that due to maintenance issues, but instead recommended to either keep the natural
concrete color or use colored concrete.
Hafner explained that painting chips, but if the color were in the concrete, it would hold better. The color in the
concrete is an available option for a design element per the DOT.
Michels asked for a comparative example. Hafner suggested the HWY G bridge was the example related to
the color preference.
Henry suggested that color would not be necessary with the brick design, as that design adds depth. Wilken
concurred.
Hafner suggested perhaps requesting a rendering with color and without.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to get an example of color versus no color renderings.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Hafner noted that the Public Works Committee concurred with the sailboat design element ad well as the
Council ’s selection of the standard black tubular steel railing screening.
The Public Works Committee recommended the Highway C name element based on the existing signage on
I-94.
Pavin added that the “City of Delafield ” could not be included on the bridge.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Valde, to recommend including the “Highway C” name for the bridge
signage and to include the logo.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Mayor's Report
Aicher reported that the Lake Country Fire & Rescue IMA Amendment signing was completed on June 3. There
was a Chamber Golf outing on June 5. Hawks Inn had their Rhubarb Fest on June 6, and a Heritage Hike occurred
in a joint effort with the American Legion, Hawks Inn and the Ice Age Trail.
Accept resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to
expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Aicher explained Hussinger is slowly transitioning towards retirement.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to accept
the resignation of Scott Hussinger from the City of Delafield Building Inspector position, term to expire
04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Confirm appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield Building Inspector position vacated by
Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
Motion by Wilken, seconded by Pavin, to confirm the appointment of Jason Chromy to the City of Delafield
Building Inspector position vacated by Scott Hussinger, term to expire 04/2028, effective June 30, 2026.
All in favor. Motion carried.
New Business
Discussion and possible action regarding Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint Ronald J.
Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended by the
Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Hafner explained that Judge Kay had resigned. An interim judge had been assigned, but an appointment from
one of the member committees is required. A unanimous vote in support of Sonderhouse occurred and the
Administrative Committee. There must be unanimous decision by all municipalities.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to adopt Resolution Number 2026-09, a resolution to appoint
Ronald J. Sonderhouse as municipal court judge of the Lake Country Municipal Court, as recommended
by the Operations Committee and Administrative Committee of the court.
Motion carried with Laughland abstaining.
Review of the 2025 City of Delafield Audit, including the Financial Statement Overview, Financial
Statements with Independent Auditor’s Report, and Required Audit Communications to the City Council,
as prepared by Johnson Block & Company.
Hafner reviewed the Audit documents provided in the ePacket. The budget surplus came in more than
expected and there was an actual budget surplus of $989,000. Thie equated to an additional $710,000
contribution to the fund balance. Hafner reviewed the items that resulted in the surplus. This puts the City in a
good financial situation with the ending of the ARPA funding and the referendum. The excess fund balance will
assist with the structural deficit projected.
Approval of Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of 5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
Motion by Henry, seconded by Wilken, to approve the Vouchers Payable Report for the reporting dates of
5/20/2026 - 6/16/2026 & 04/15/2026 -
05/30/2026 in the amount of $860,538.50 for accounts payable and $270,494.40 for payroll.
All in favor. Motion carried.
Report of City Officials
City Administrator
Update regarding the June 9, 2026, Bids and Sale of City’s General Obligation Promissory Notes,
Series 2026A.
The bond sale occurred and the parameters were met. The interest rate came in at 3.2% and
included a premium which went into the debt service fund. Additianl information was provided in the
packet.
Amended Lake Country Fire & Rescue Intermunicipal Agreement has been finalized and was signed
by all seven member municipalities at ceremonial signing event held on June 3, 2026.
Hafner also noted the IMA amendment was finalized.
City Clerk
Schneider stated that absentee ballots would be mailed the following week and reminded residents to get their
applications in. Aicher asked if there was a preference for absentee voters versus in -person voters. Schneider
explained that ta balance between the two is preferred to prevent issues with bottlenecking with in -person
voting or absentee processing.
Welcome Kate Bach to the City of Delafield Clerk's Office Staff.
Schneider stated that the Clerk ’s Office had filled the vacant position. Kate Bach had started the
week prior, and she is learning quickly and fitting in well.
City Treasurer
April 2026 Treasurer's Report
Council Requests for Future Agenda Items
Price requested for the next meeting obtaining easements for the neighbors on Lakewood Court for the
purpose of maintaining a natural barricade in the future.
Correspondence
Adjournment
Having no further business, the June 16, 20 Common Council meeting was adjourned at 9:02 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Molly Schneider, City Clerk
1.
2.
3.
4.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
5.
6.
A.
i.
B.
C.
7.
A.
8.
A.
i.
ii.
iii.
B.
i.
a.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
i.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
9.
A.
B.
10.
A.
B.
11.
A.
B.
C.
12.
A.
i.
ii.
B.
i.
C.
i.
D.
13.
14.
DRAFT
Source: City of Delafield website. First collected Oct 7, 2026.