Council Takes No Action On Utilities Commission

It was a standing room only crowd at the Richland Center City Council meeting last night (Tuesday). The reason for the crowd was a public hearing on the future of the Utilities Commission. Many of the constituents asked, “It’s working smoothly, so why are we here?” Many who have previously served on the commission spoke on how it has always worked for the betterment of the city.

Jim Haier stated that the Richland Center Utilities Commission has become a model for the state.

Brent Schuppner, General Manager of the Reedsburg Utility Commission, said the two commissions work closely together. Schuppner also reiterated that utilities are a business and not a government entity.

Utilities Office Manager, Vanessa Mueller, stated that the investigation has indicated flaws, which are not true. Mueller stated that City Administrator, Ashley Oliphant, took credit for positive changes initiated by the commission itself.

As a business owner, Larry Ferguson, likes the one on one aspect of the commission, and the fact that there is no red tape and the work gets done.

Business owner, Christy Adsit, reminded the council that they work for their constituents, and what is going on within the workings of the city is building animosity.

Former Alderperson, Travis Wertz, stated the commission is a vital asset to the city; and the council needs to reach out to its constituents.

Former Parks Employee, Dave Fry, stated that it is important to keep all boards and commissions in the city because it is another avenue for the public to voice their opinion.

Following the public hearing, council members shared their views. It was the general consensus of the members that more information was needed before a decision could be made. City Attorney, Michael Windle stated that he believed the question as to “Why are we here?” was answered by the council members, a lack of information. Mayor Todd Coppernoll said that he feels the city needs to bring back the position of Director of Public Works to work with the commission.

Once everyone was heard, it was decided unanimously by the Richland Center City Council to postpone any action to dissolve the City Utilities Commission at this time.

Attorney Michael Windle gave a summary of the findings of an investigation on City Administrator, Ashley Oliphant, by Samantha Wood of Lindner & Marsack, Law Office in Milwaukee. The investigation, which was requested by Oliphant was to determine if she was creating a hostile work environment or if she violated any other City policies. The investigation included a review of the City’s policies and ordinances, Oliphant’s job description and contract, relevant employee personnel files, and email correspondence between Oliphant and employees. Based on the investigation, there is insufficient evidence presented to allow Wood to conclude that Oliphant is creating a hostile work environment in violation of the City’s policies, or that she has violated any other City policy.

Although it does not rise to a violation of the City’s policies, there are, however, common concerns among employees that Oliphant is inaccessible and has displayed poor communication skills and follow-through. It is the lack of communication in combination with employee discipline that has exacerbated employee concerns of retaliation. The investigation also found that there has been turnover due to changes and job expectations under Oliphant, but it does not rise to the level of a policy violation. As City Administrator, Oliphant has the authority to set job expectations, make changes to the employee handbook, and oversee the City departments that fall under her authority. As such, there is no policy violation in this regard.

Based on the evidence gathered during the course of the investigation, Wood recommended: Oliphant should undergo training in the area of Human Resources/management communication. When time permits, Oliphant should make additional efforts to disseminate notes of Department Head meetings and collect employee handbook acknowledgments. Oliphant should maintain an open-door policy, designate certain open office hours for the public and employees, place a sign on her door indicating her availability, and/or make an effort to engage in more face-to-face communications with employees. And regardless of the existence or structure of the Utilities Commission, Oliphant and the City Utilities’ leadership team should continue to meet regularly to communicate and resolve concerns. Should regular meetings be ineffective and disruptive trust issues continue to arise, EAP mediation should be considered at a later time to assist in repairing the relationship.

The Richland Center City Council also approved an additional service agreement at last night’s meeting with Johnson Block CPA’s as needed to assist in adjusting the books of accounts hourly one to two days per month at $150 to $242 per hour; and to modify the contract for ongoing services with the Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission.

And, Mick Cosgrove of Richland Rejuvenates gave a report to the council on the status of donations for the Aquatic Center. He stated that at this time is at 87%.