Good morning everyone for WRCO News.
I'm Todd Copernall, 50 degrees and sunny in Richland Center right now.
Forecast says a high of 74.
Today should be a really nice day.
In the news this morning, the Richland County Executive Finance Standing Committee and the Richland County Campus Reconfiguration Committee met in a joint session yesterday to address key decisions surrounding the future
of the Richland Campus property.
During the meeting at the Richland County Courthouse, members convened in a closed session to review a memorandum of understanding regarding the proposed acquisition of campus property alongside the potential sale of a county parcel situated at 1200 US Highway 14 West.
Upon returning to open session, the joint committee voted to direct corporate counsel to incorporate specific revisions into the MOU
prior to submitting the agreement to the city council for further consideration.
In addition to the MOU discussions, the committee's reviewed a comprehensive concept map prepared by Veerbicker Engineering.
The redevelopment framework outlines a diverse range of land uses intended to revitalize the campus area.
The plan allocates approximately 10 acres for single family housing, 13.5 acres for multifamily residential units,
eight acres for a combined governmental and commercial business park, and two acres dedicated specifically to commercial business development.
Additional commercial parcels measuring one acre and .5 acres are designated along Highway 14 and West 6th Street.
Key community assets are also incorporated into the blueprint, including designated properties set aside for transfer to the local school.
school district and the retention of the Simons Recreation Complex site within the development footprint.
The redevelopment is structured to proceed across multiple distinct phases.
Phase 1A focuses on infrastructure enhancements to hive drive through a joint partnership between the city and the Richland School District.
Phase 1B involves the construction of initial street networks, utility infrastructure and approximately 20 single family homes.
subsequent phases two and three will complete the broader road network, facilitate driveway relocations, incorporate potential stormwater management features and undertake bridge reconfiguration along highway 14.
Again, all of these things are in the discussion phase.
None of this is finalized.
Weston High School is gearing up for a landmark celebration as homecoming 2026 marks 70 years of school spirit and community tradition.
The week-long festivities run October 11th through October 17th, offering a dynamic lineup of academic spirit events, athletic competitions, alumni honors, and family-friendly entertainment.
The excitement kicks off Sunday with hallway decorating from 11 a.m.
to 3 p.m., continuing Monday afternoon from 3.30 until 7.30 p.m.
Monday night also features a special paint night hosted by the Student Council.
In the cafeteria, alongside a JV football matchup at Iowa Grant at 5 p.m.
and middle school volleyball at North Crawford.
On Tuesday, official hallway judging takes place at 3.30 followed by varsity volleyball at DeSoto starting at 5.30.
Midweek tradition stays strong Wednesday with high school class float building in the western shop from 8 a.m.
to 10 a.m.
and 6 p.m.
to 8 p.m.
Students and supporters can enjoy Mrs. Kaston's cookout during Float Construction, capped off by a traditional bonfire at dusk.
On Thursday, cross-country runners compete in the cross-country championships, which will be held at Kickapoo at 5 p.m.
while middle school football plays at Royal.
Back at Weston, the FFA hosts a pork feed from 5 until 7 p.m., $6 for students, $10 for adults.
preceding a distinguished alumni plaque presentation at 7 p.m.
and the varsity volleyball pink-out game against Ithaca at 7.15.
Friday brings Maximum Spirit starting with an all-school pep rally from 12.15 p.m.
to 1.45 p.m.
immediately followed by the annual Homecoming Parade from 1.45 p.m.
to 2.30.
Evening activities begin in the cafeteria at 4.45 p.m.
with the Weston Silver Eagle Foundation induction ceremony, followed by live music from five until 5.45 by Jacob, featuring basic basic age, including Weston alumni Jacob McCluskey, Cody Bell and Tucker Arneson.
Fans can enjoy pregame food trucks, bounce houses and face painting before the Silver Eagles take the field against Nassida.
at 6 p.m.
The night concludes at 8 o'clock with the Weston Silver Eagle Foundation Alumni Social at Hill Point Hideaway.
The celebration wraps up Saturday with the back-to-the-nest retired staff social from 1 p.m.
to 5 p.m.
welcoming the entire community to reconnect, followed by the homecoming day as grand march starting at 8 p.m.
The Richland School District has issued an official notice for its upcoming annual meeting for the Transaction of Business scheduled for Wednesday, October 21 at 7 p.m.
The meeting will take place in the Richland Center High School IMC in Richland Center.
District electors and community members are invited to attend and participate in the official proceedings.
A major portion of the evening will focus on the 2026-27 budget hearing.
School officials will present the proposed district budget before formally opening the floor for public discussion and feedback, after which the hearing will be closed.
Following the budget presentation, electors will vote on key resolutions, including the adoption of tax levies for general operations, debt service, and community services.
Additional action items include setting board member salaries, approving expense reimbursements and authorizing the board to manage district property, secure short-term loans if necessary, and schedule next year's annual meeting.
Travelers crossing between Wisconsin and Lansing, Iowa will soon have a direct route across the Mississippi River once again as state transportation officials announced the new Iowa Highway 9 Wisconsin Highway 82 bridge is set to open Friday, November 6th.
The milestone comes months ahead of the original target completion date of spring 2027 driven by efficient construction progress and favorable weather conditions.
The expedited timeline marks significant progress for the multi-year infrastructure effort, which began in late 2023.
Following the demolition of the previous structure in December 2025, commuter and freight traffic relied on a temporary free car ferry service jointly operated by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and the Iowa DOT.
With the ferry handling upwards of 550 vehicles daily during peak summer months, the upcoming opening will restore seamless regional connectivity and substantially reduce travel times for residents and local businesses.
While traffic will resume on the main span in early November, remaining work will continue through the winter and into early 2027.
Work crews will focus on site restoration around the ferry landing sites, removal of Legacy Bridge Pier,
and final deck adjustments.
Department officials noted that minor lane restrictions may occur during the final touch-ups in the spring, but no full closures are anticipated before the entire project wraps up in late spring of 2027.
W-E-A-U-13 News and the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce will host a nonpartisan candidate forum featuring Republican incumbent Representative Derek Van Orden and Democratic challenger Rebecca Cook, October 20th in Eau Claire.
The event represents the first joint forum between the two candidates competing for Wisconsin's third congressional district seat.
during this election cycle, though the organizers noted that the format will be a forum rather than a traditional debate.
Moderated by WEAU, the discussion will center on key issue areas affecting local voters, including affordability, the state of the economy, federal spending, tax policy, health care, and energy.
The event will take place in person with limited seating requiring pre-registration for attendees.
It will also be broadcast live on Channel 13 as well as streamed online.
Inside radio reports, the full political advertising rush has officially arrived, driven by record-setting expenditures as key congressional races heat up nationwide.
According to recent tracking data from ad impact, political ad spending reached $1.58 billion in September.
Nearly doubling August figures and marking a 41% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
Congressional contests continue to be the primary catalyst with more than $1 billion currently reserved for House and Senate races leading up to Election Day.
The Richland Center Fire Department has scheduled its upcoming board meeting for Monday, October 12 starting at 7 p.m.
The meeting will take place in person at the fire station located at 205 East Mill Street in Richland Center.
Key highlights of the session reside in the new business portion of the agenda, where discussions will center on reviewing and potentially approving the proposed 2027 annual budget.
Additionally, the board plans to deliberate on amending section 15 of the fire district contract, considering changes to party payments or call response pay, as well as establishing
including interest charges on overdue fire call invoices and year end account balances.
Before concluding, the meeting will open the floor for citizen input and address any final administrative business.
Today is October 6th.
These are today's vital statistics.
Mary Waslik, 76 of Casanovia, died Wednesday, September 30th at the Sock County Health Care Center in Reedsburg.
A visitation for Mary will be held Friday, October 9th, from 4pm until 7pm at the Casanovia Chapel.
The Farber Funeral Home in Reedsburg is assisting the family.
Mary Waslik.
76 of Casanovia.
Margaret J. Peggy Ryan, 78 of Richland Center, died Sunday, September 27, at Schmidt Woodland Hills following an extended illness.
Services will be held at a later date.
Margaret J. Peggy Ryan, 78 of Richland Center.
Julie Ann
Ripley, 69 of Bear Valley, died Wednesday, September 30th, at Schmitwolden Hills.
Upon Julie's wishes, no formal funeral services will be held.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
Julie Ann Ripley, 69 of Bear Valley.
Victor Edward Jelenick, 75 of Webster City, Iowa, formerly of Richland Center, died Thursday, September 17th.
Private family graveside services were held at the Kelveri Cemetery in Webster City.
Victor Edward Jelenick, 75 of Webster City, Iowa, formerly of Richland Center.
And we have a birth in Margo, Poppy, Blade.
Was born October 1st, parents are Autumn Crary and Thomas Blade of Burnsville, Minnesota.
Local grandparents are Mark and Mary Crary.
Congratulations.
It's Tuesday's Roundup.
Brought to you by Added Touch Floral Inciffs, Julie Karen State Farm, Richland Hospital, Cardinal Glass CG, and by Badgerland Flooring.
And today is Quiz Day.
Hank is handing out the questions and Phil bravely, boldly, and often incorrectly taking the quiz.
Confidence?
Sky High.
Accuracy still under review.
Hanks got the answers, Phil's got the guesses, and somehow, we've got a show.
Play along and see if you can beat Phil, which, statistically speaking, you probably can.
Tuesday's Roundup, where the questions are tough, and Phil makes them tougher.
Good morning, young man.
How you doing good buddy and you?
Oh, yeah, I'm doing well.
Did you get a good night's sleep last night?
I'm pretty well good.
Yeah, pretty well.
Did you get in trouble or anything?
No,
I think I was pretty good to go.
I
guess when I were here late last night.
Yeah,
you were later than I. Yeah.
Yeah, I was here last.
You're kind of surprised to see me when you
went last night.
Yeah.
Yeah.
I was surprised
this morning to what's he doing here?
Oh, well, I
was here by four.
No,
wasn't that early?
Was it?
No, what was it?
420?
420.
People don't realize how early we get here.
But you have to.
Someone from the company once asked me, will anybody be there before seven o'clock?
I said,
yeah.
If I'm not here, Henry will be here.
And if Henry's not here, somebody will be here.
Someone has to open at five.
I don't know how it is at everybody else's station.
It's
not sad.
Get here a little earlier.
So anyway, did you do anything?
Uh, did you do anything outside last night?
Uh, me and the neighbor kid played catch, but
it gets
dark so early anymore.
I know.
And I didn't want to get hit in the face with a football, you know, and affect my career here.
So
I don't think that would hurt it.
Yeah.
No, may help
it might
break my glasses.
I got hit in the face of the night and football came.
Did you get tossed in the ball?
I didn't see it coming.
And now my glasses, I haven't, I haven't fully figured out how to put them evenly yet.
Oh, yeah.
Your head's a little... Yeah, that's what I'm thinking.
Maybe it's my head instead of my glasses.
We'll have to get the level and see if we can...
I appreciate that.
I think it's your ears, maybe.
So are you doing anything tonight?
Yes, absolutely.
Volleyball,
Rich's
Center and River Valley.
Oh, that's always a good one.
It's here.
It's in the center.
Yeah.
Homecoming.
No, next week Riverdale's homecoming is this week.
Riverdale is this week, right?
Do we, are we doing anything for that Phillip?
We're going to the parade.
I think baby, that's the last I heard.
Anyway, are we going to get in trouble in the parade?
Well, I don't know.
I'm, I'm going to be good, but I don't know about you.
I can't speak for you.
Hmm.
Yeah, please don't
control today's quiz day.
But at first your question, if you could swap jobs with anyone in the office for a week, Phillip,
Who would it be and why oh boy, I know
I don't know that I would do that but Tim feed I may be Tim feed because I am you know, even though I've been doing the morning shift here since 1990 36 years.
I'm still a night owl
Yes, you are.
I
would rather stay up
all night and sleep all day.
That's the way I've always been.
Seriously, and that's been ever since you were a little young.
Yeah, yeah.
Young knee.
Young knee.
Right.
So I'd say maybe the night shift.
Okay.
Yeah, not bad.
Tim does a lot of work that people don't know.
He does.
Very much.
And buddy, and you might be from Arkansas if you ever used a cast iron skillet as both cookware and home defense.
Oh boy.
Yeah.
It's tough.
Tough being from Arkansas.
That's right.
Or if you sneak in late, you know, and you're in trouble, cast iron skillet.
If you're sneaking in late at my dad's house, then he's going to be a cast iron skillet.
It's going to be something with iron in it, but it's not a cast iron.
Okay.
Well, I won't do that.
Yeah.
Don't do that.
Right.
All right, buddy.
10 questions on a little bit of anything.
Oh boy.
Yep.
Yep.
So did you study?
No, absolutely perfect.
All right.
Um, you, are you ready?
Sure.
Your name's not on the paper.
It's not marked.
The date's not there.
I think Phillip is still asleep from Saturday night.
No, no,
no, I've come back down to earth.
Have you?
Yeah.
Don't pay.
You deserved it.
Number one, what type of food attracts yellow jackets the most in the late summer and fall?
A, protein sources like raw meat and bugs.
B, sweet foods like soda, juice and fallen fruit.
Or C,
fresh green leaves with brown in them.
Okay.
Okay.
Number two, why do yellow jacket colonies become so honorary and aggressive during August and September?
A, are they building a new underground tunnels?
B, the queen stops laying eggs entirely.
C, the worker insects lose their usual natural food sources and search desperately for sugar.
It's tough.
It's tough being me right number three What happens to most of the yellow jackets colony when winter arrives Philip a the entire colony hibernates together in the nest be all workers and males die and only young fertilized queens survive the winter or See they migrate south to warmer climates like my backyard.
Mmm.
Got it number four.
What was one of the job one of?
What was one job performed by a lector in this, in the, oh my goodness.
Let's try that one again.
Okay.
Number four, what was one job performed by a lector and some American cigar factories?
All right.
Is it a, inspecting tobacco, B, reading aloud to workers, C, testing cigars or D counting finished cigars.
Hmm.
All right number five fiver, which was a real product Philip is Is it an inflatable unicorn horn for cats?
Gravy flavored dental floss are packet sized lawn chair shoes pocket sized lawn chair shoes is it inflatable unicorn for Cats be flavored dental floss or packet sized lawn chair shoes
pocket size launcher.
I'm an idiot.
All right.
All right.
Sorry.
Number six, Wisconsin became the first state to establish what type of statewide system in 1911.
And every day we grown about it.
It's just a, it's just a, just a hint here is a state income tax, B sales tax, C property tax or D gasoline tax.
Number seven, which university is represented by the Green Wave?
I think Wisconsin has played this team before.
The Green Wave.
Here we go.
Is it Tulane, Marshall, North Texas or South Florida?
Which university is represented by the Green Wave?
Is it Tulane, Marshall, North Texas or South Florida?
Number eight, which Wisconsin city is famous for the National Mustard Museum?
Did you know this one?
I think so.
Okay, here we go.
Is it A, Madison, B, Middleton, C, Monroe, or D, Beloit?
A, Madison, B, Middleton, C, Monroe, or D, Beloit?
Number nine.
Apples belong to the same plant family as which
Flower.
We've had this one a couple of months ago.
I think
we did, yeah.
Is it A. Roses.
B. Daisies.
C. Tulips.
Or D. Sunflowers.
Now, we can dial a friend.
We can call Judy and ask her if you want to at Oakwood.
Or you're going to pass.
I'm going with my answer.
OK.
Final answer.
Yep.
All right.
Number 10, which helps a penguin's, what helps a penguin's tongue grip slippery fish?
All right.
I'm a big penguin guy.
I love penguins.
All right.
What helps a penguin's tongue grip slippery fish is a tiny suction cups.
B stiff backwards pointing bristles.
C small teeth or D sticky saliva.
All right.
All right.
Number one, tomatoes are best plenty.
No, that's the extra quiz.
Nevermind.
We'll go with them.
You always got to have an extra.
I suppose.
Yeah.
All right.
Number one, Phillip, what type of food attracts yellow jackets the most in the late summer and fall?
I'm going with the second one.
You said and be sweet foods like soda, juice and fallen fruit.
Nice job.
I was
at the wheels of time on Sunday and it was hard for me to eat my breakfast.
They wanted my syrup.
Yes.
And
the grand babies had cinnamon rolls and we were just getting
they
are.
everywhere bombarded.
Yeah.
Right.
And I got stung two weeks ago on Saturday and it is still very painful.
Ouch.
And it's like on my belt line.
Yeah.
Yeah.
So not good.
I've, I don't know what to do.
It takes off the sharp
edge.
Why do yellow jacket colonies become so on re and aggressive during August and September, Phillip?
I went
with a third
one.
It is worker insects lose their usual, usual natural food sources and search desperately for sugar.
Number three, what happens to most of the L-jacket colony when winter arrives?
Is it A, the colony hibernates together?
B, all workers and males die and only young fertilized queen survive the winter?
Or C, they migrate south to warmer climates?
I would be it is all workers and male died all workers and males die and only young fertilized queen survived the winter three for three baby number four what was one job before by a lector and some american cigar factories is it a inspecting tobacco b reading aloud to workers c testing cigars or d counting finished cigars i went with testing no it's reading aloud want
want want
reading aloud to workers really
Elector.
Elector.
Yeah.
I didn't.
Yeah.
Well, anyway, you know, when some you lose something, what do you, you know, what do you think about that?
And that's, that's like, that's like a free back thing.
You had free tablet with a real guy reading.
So, wow.
And number five.
Yep.
All right.
Which was a real product inflatable unicorn horn for cats gravy flavored dental floss pocket sized lawn chair shoes.
I went with the first one.
It is inflatable unicorn, unicorn horn for cat.
It is the most ridiculous thing I've ever seen.
Number six, Wisconsin became the first state to establish what type of statewide system in 1911.
I went
with the income.
It is the state income tax.
Wisconsin, Wisconsin gave America cheese curds and a state income tax on your welcome for one of those.
Number seven, which university represented is represented by the green wave.
I think it's Tulane.
It is Tulane going away.
The Green Rave sounds like either a powerful football team or something you never should see rolling across the swimming pool.
Yeah, yeah.
Number eight, which Wisconsin city is famous for the National Mustard Museum?
That's gotta be Middleton.
It is Middleton.
Only in Wisconsin can you spend the afternoon looking at mustard and call it a culture.
Too old
to cut the
mustard.
Number nine, apples belong to the same plant family as which flower?
Roses, daisies, tulips, or sunflowers.
Roses.
It is a rose.
Apples are members of the rose family.
Try giving your sweetheart a dozen apples instead of roses.
Yeah, if it doesn't go well, so you can at least make a pie for yourself.
Here are your roses,
sir.
They'd be cheaper to do that, too.
Yeah, well, not a percent.
Yeah.
Number 10, what helps a penguin's tongue grip slippery fish?
Is it tiny, soft, and cuts?
uh, stiff backward pointing bristles, small teeth are sticky Slava tiny suction cups.
Nope.
Oh, stiff backwards pointing bristles.
They're made of keratin.
The same material found in our fingernails built in fish grips.
Meanwhile, I can't pick it.
Keep a pickle from sliding out of my sandwich.
Yeah, I
know it.
Eight, right?
Not bad out of 10.
You know, I've
been averaging
around there seven or eight in the
last few weeks.
So you're still, you're still eligible for sports this week.
I know I can go out for recess.
Yeah.
And you're eligible to continue to come to work, Phillip.
Congratulations.
Thank you
very
much.
I hope everybody out there has a great day and be kind, my friends.
That's Hank Bray.
Today's vital statistics are sponsored by Crowsie Monument.
Crowsie Monument Company designs and produces granite headstones, gravestones, grave markers, monuments, and memorials.
Today is October 6th.
These are today's vital statistics.
Mary Waslik, 76 of Casanovia, died Wednesday, September 30th at the Salk County Health Care Center in Reedsburg.
A visitation will be held Friday, October night from 4 p.m.
until 7 p.m.
at the Casanovia Chapel.
The Farber Funeral Home in Reedsburg is assisting the family.
Mary is survived by her husband Kenneth, children Terry Waslik and Jenny Meacham, Tracy and Larry Fanta, and Kenneth Waslik.
Seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren.
Mary Waslik, 76, of Casanovia.
Connie Jean McKellery, 77, formerly of Richland Center, died Sunday, October 4th.
A funeral mass will be held Saturday, October 24th at 11 a.m.
at St.
Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Richland Center with visitation from 10 a.m.
until the time of mass at 11.
Friends and family are invited to join the family for a time of gathering and a meal immediately following mass.
The family asks that memorials be directed in Connie's memory to continue the movement to end Alzheimer's.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Connie is survived by her children, Tracy McElroy and Emily and Jason Willoughby and Joel and Laura McElroy.
Six grandchildren, her brother Thomas and Nancy Hawks, one niece and one nephew.
Connie Jean McElroy, 77, formerly of Richland Center.
Margaret J. Peggy Ryan, 78 of Richland Center, died Sunday, September 27, at Schmidt Woodland Hills following an extended illness.
Services will be held at a later date.
Peggy Ryan is survived by her son Michael and Angie Tilletson, one grandson, three sisters, Kathy and Dwayne Polenski, Ryan and Becky of Muscaday and Dorothy and Jim Walsh of Appleton.
many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Margaret J. Peggy Ryan, 78 of Richland Center.
Julie Ann Ripley, 69 of Bear Valley, died Wednesday, September 30 at Schmidt Woodland Hills.
Upon Julie's wishes, no formal funeral services will be held.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
Julie Ripley is survived by her husband, Ellen Bailey.
Her daughter, Amy Ripley.
Two stepchildren, Brian and Nikki Bailey and Susie and John Daniels.
One grandchild, four step-grandchildren.
Eight siblings, Lori Roberts, Mike and Julie Fargen.
Pat and Jeanette Farjan, Peggy Hull, Pauline and Chuck Furman, Mary Pat and John Call, Mary and Dean Brickle, Colleen Furman, several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends, Julie Ann Ripley, 69 of Bear Valley.
Victor Edward Jelenik, 75, of Webster City, Iowa, formerly of Richland Center, died Thursday, September 17th.
Private family graveside services were held at the Calvary Cemetery in Webster City.
Vic is survived by his wife Marilyn, daughter Mary Siders, siblings Michael and Bonnie Jelenik, David and Marcella Jelenik, Jeff and Jane Jelenik, Gretchen Jelenik, and Tom and Rose Jelenik.
several nieces and nephews, Victor Edward Jelenick, 75, of Webster City, Iowa, formerly of Richland Center.
And we have a birth announcement.
Margo Poppy Blade was born October 1st.
Parents are Autumn Crary and Thomas Blade of Burnsville, Minnesota.
Local grandparents, Mark and Mary Crary.
Congratulations.
This concludes today's vital statistics.
Welcome back to the news at noon.
The City of Richland Center will not receive county funding for the care of veterans graves this cycle after missing the annual statutory deadline under Wisconsin statute 45.85.
Governing bodies must submit grave locations and reports to the county clerk on or before September 1st of each year.
because the city submitted its documentation to the deputy clerk on September 14th, two weeks past the legal cutoff, Richland County is unable to process the request or issue payments.
Although the statements were certified on August 30th using the county's designated worksheet, County Clerk Jeffrey Harrison confirmed that state law allows no extensions or workarounds for missed deadlines.
addressing concerns raised by city administrator Ashley Oliphant regarding the fiscal impact on the municipal budget.
The county clerk clarified that no payment or review will occur for this cycle.
However, the city is eligible to resubmit the grave records for reimbursement during the next cycle in 2027.
In response, the city of Richland Center has filed a petition for a writ of mandamus in Richland County Circuit Court against Richland County.
Also naming Board of Supervisors Chair Carrie Severson and Jeffrey Harrison as respondents.
Severson and Harrison are named strictly based on their official capacities.
The lawsuit filed October 1st seeks to compel the county to reimburse the city $17,859.83 for expenses incurred while caring for eligible veterans graves and tombstones between July 1st, 2025.
and June 30, 2026.
According to the court filing, the city provided maintenance and care for a total of 1,495 veterans grave sites across two local cemeteries, including 46 sites at Bowen Cemetery and 1,449 sites in Richland Center Cemetery.
Under Wisconsin statute 45.85, municipal common councils are obligated to ensure proper care for veterans' graves, while the financial burden of such care is legally mandated to be borne by the county in which the graves are located, provided that suitable care is not otherwise supplied.
On September 15th, county officials denied the reimbursement request, strictly on the grounds that the submission passed the stated deadline.
A subsequent request by the city on September 21st to process the claim despite the late filing was not granted, leaving the full amount unpaid.
In its petition, the city argues that the reporting deadlines established by statute and county ordinance are directory rather than mandatory.
Because the governing laws do not explicitly dictate the forfeiture of underlying reimbursement rights for late filings.
The city contends that a procedural delay should not eliminate the county's statutory obligation to bear the cost of caring for veterans' graves.
The city asserts that the late report contained all necessary information to evaluate the claim and caused no prejudice to the county, making a writ of mandamus appropriate to direct full reimbursement and enforce compliance with state law.
Community members who have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes told they are at risk for diabetes or identified with elevated blood sugar levels now have a direct pathway to improve their health.
The Richland Hospital and Clinics has announced the return of its popular wellness workshop set to begin Wednesday, October 21st.
designed to provide participants with practical tools, education, and encouragement.
The program focuses on helping individuals make sustainable changes to prevent or reverse the onset of type 2 diabetes.
The five-week program meets every other week and is available for a $40 registration fee.
Included in the cost is a TANIDA body composition scan
An advanced assessment provides a comprehensive look at an individual's physical health by measuring muscle mass, body fat percentage, hydration levels, and other key wellness indicators.
To ensure the workshop remains accessible to everyone in the community, financial scholarship assistance is available for those who qualify.
Health care professionals involved with the workshop emphasize the critical importance of early action.
Ty Mohullen, registered dietician and certified diabetes care and education specialist, noted that pre-diabetes serves as an essential warning sign that the body is struggling to manage blood sugar properly.
However, Mohullen points out that progression to type 2 diabetes is not inevitable.
Modest weight loss, healthier nutritional habits, routine physical activity,
Stress reduction and adequate sleep can dramatically alter health outcomes and reduce long-term risks.
Because prediabetes rarely presents noticeable symptoms, experts stress the necessity of attending annual checkups and paying attention to elevated blood lab results.
Registered dietitians and workshop leaders Kelly Herbert and Lindsay Hatfield highlight that the program aims to build achievable long-term habits rather than temporary fixes.
by focusing on realistic movement and daily dietary adjustments, the workshop guides participants towards steady, meaningful progress in an engaging and supportive classroom setting.
Space in the upcoming session is limited and interested community members are encouraged to enroll early.
For additional information regarding workshop details, scholarship applications, or registration, individuals can contact the Richland Hospital and clinics directly
at 647-6321 extension 2480.
The Richland Center Budget Committee meets today at 530.
The committee last convened September 1st to conduct regular municipal business and review key financial members.
The committee examined delinquent personal property tax accounts noting that letters were issued for $5,472
and 67 cents in delinquent taxes, while $39,826.64 in uncollectible accounts from closed businesses may eventually be submitted to the Common Council for write-off.
Additionally, the committee approved the bill's list, including specialized regional planning expenses and municipal lawn care costs for un-maintained properties which will be billed as special assessments.
Updates on municipal projects were also evaluated starting with the 2027 budget timeline and the status of 2026 capital expenditures.
Capital spending currently stands at roughly $380,000 offset by $87,000 from equipment sales with remaining projects under review for potential carryover into 2027.
Looking ahead to future business, the committee slated two major items for ongoing evaluation and possible action.
Members will discuss Resolution 2026-12, which proposes authorizing an advance from the General Fund to finance the Valley View Drive Street project, ensuring necessary infrastructure improvements can proceed smoothly.
Additionally, the committee will open discussion on potential cost containment opportunities for the 2027 budget, aiming to identify efficiencies and maintain fiscal discipline across municipal operations in the coming fiscal year.
U.S.
Senator Tammy Baldwin is speaking out against federal funding cuts impacting low-income families in rural Wisconsin.
The Trump administration drastically reduced funding under the USDA's Single Family Housing Direct Home Loans Program, leaving Wisconsin with roughly $2 million this year, compared to a historical average of $13.1 million.
Despite bipartisan congressional approval, providing $1 billion for the program, nearly half of those funds went unallocated nationwide, with over $230 million expiring unused.
Senator Baldwin emphasized that high housing costs continue to strain families and noted her ongoing legislative efforts, including the recently passed 21st century Road to Housing Act to lower living costs and expand affordable home ownership.
across Wisconsin.
Two men were arrested Monday evening following a disturbance in the town of Dodgeville, according to the Iowa County Sheriff's Office.
At approximately 7.25 p.m.
yesterday, the Iowa County Communication Center received a report of a disturbance near the 5,000 block of County Road Z.
Following an investigation, authorities arrested 33-year-old Michael T. Dolan of Spring Grain and 25-year-old Frank T. Stronsack of Dodgeville.
Both individuals were charged with battery with a domestic enhancer and transported to the Iowa County Jail.
The Aging and Disability Resource Center, ADRC of Richland County,
is hosting an educational presentation on Medicare to help community members navigate their health care coverage.
Scheduled for Monday, October 12th at 1pm, the free session will take place at the Richland Health and Human Services building.
During the event, presenters will cover the essential steps of enrolling in Medicare, including when and how to sign up.
The presentation will break down the various parts of Medicare to help attendees understand what options best fit their individual health care needs.
For those unable to attend in person, a virtual option will be available via Microsoft Teams.
Advanced registration is required so that organizers can prepare adequate materials for all participants.
Interested individuals should reserve their spot at least one week prior
by contacting ADRC at 647-4616.
The Richland County Executive and Finance Standing Committee and the Richland County Campus Reconfiguration Committee met in a joint session yesterday to address key decisions surrounding the future of the UW campus property in Richland Center.
During the meeting at the Richland County Courthouse, members convened in a closed session to review a memorandum of understanding regarding the proposed acquisition of campus property alongside the potential sale of a county parcel situated at 1200 US Highway 14 West.
Upon returning to open session, the joint committee voted to direct corporate counsel to incorporate specific revisions into the MOU.
prior to submitting the agreement to the City Council for further consideration.
In addition to the MOU discussions, the committee's reviewed a comprehensive concept map prepared by Veerbicker Engineering.
The redevelopment framework outlines a diverse range of land uses intended to revitalize the campus area.
The plan allocates approximately 10 acres for single-family housing, 13.5 acres for multifamily residential units,
eight acres for a combined governmental and commercial business park, and two acres dedicated specifically to commercial business development.
Additional commercial parcels measuring one acre and 0.5 acres are designated along Highway 14 and West 6th Street.
Key community assets are also incorporated into the blueprint, including designated property set aside for transfer to the local school district and the retention of the Simons Recreation Complex site
within the development footprint.
The redevelopment is structured to proceed across multiple distinct phases.
Phase 1A focuses on infrastructure enhancements to Hive Drive through a joint partnership between the City and the Richland School District.
Phase 1B involves the construction of initial street networks, utility infrastructure, and approximately 20 single-family homes.
Subsequent phases 2 and 3 will complete the broader road network, facilitate driveway relocations, incorporate potential stormwater management features, and undertake bridge reconfiguration along Highway 14.
None of this has been decided.
It's all in the discussion and planning stage.
The Richland School District has issued an official notice for its upcoming annual meeting for the Transaction of Business scheduled for Wednesday, October 21st at 7 p.m.
The meeting will take place in the Richland Center High School IMC in Richland Center.
District electors and community members are invited to attend and participate in the official proceedings.
A major portion of the evening will focus on the 2026-27 budget hearing.
School officials will present the proposed district budget before formally opening the floor for public discussion and feedback, after which the hearing will be closed.
Following the budget presentation, electors will vote on key resolutions, including the adoption of tax levies for general operations, debt service, and community services.
Additional
Action items include setting board member salaries, approving expense reimbursements and authorizing the board to manage district property, secure short-term loans if necessary, and schedule next year's annual meeting.
October is National Cybersecurity Month.
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer devices and networks so personal information does not get stolen.
Michelle Reinen is with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
We enjoy October every year to take a moment to pause and really exercise good cyber hygiene, if you will.
And cybersecurity is the practice of protecting the network, the devices, and data from unauthorized access or criminal use.
And it isn't just for IT professionals.
Anyone using a phone, a computer, or the internet can become a target.
And we've seen that in data.
In 2025, the FBI reported that internet-related fraud resulted in over $20 billion in losses within the United States alone and with communication and commerce
increasingly taking place online instead of in person, consumers must be able to protect themselves, their money and their personal information.
And so this proactive cybersecurity is an important part of protecting individuals, families and businesses in today's world.
And it only takes small changes to those everyday habits to greatly reduce that risk.
Many times, cyber criminals do not directly attack computers to steal information.
By deceiving and manipulating legitimate users, criminals convince them to voluntarily take the actions that make their devices and data more vulnerable to cyber attacks.
So an example of this is it's much easier to convince someone that they need to help with a tech support company, that it is to track a sophisticated firewall and encrypted Wi-Fi network.
So savvy cyber criminal might send their target a message claiming that they have a virus on their device and they must click a link to help.
But in reality, they had no virus at all until they clicked that link.
Both individuals and businesses can be targeted.
So good cybersecurity practices are important.
They don't just focus on the big business or the wealthy individual.
They take advantage of every opportunity that they can, which means people from every age group and background are really at risk.
These risks can take many forms.
We've talked in the past about phishing attacks and messages.
There's mailware.
fake public Wi-Fi networks, fraudulent online stores, and imposter scams that impersonate consumers bank, service provider, a government agency, that tech support company.
So just like people lock their front door at night to protect their home and their family.
Practicing that good cyber hygiene protects real world finances, identities, and our privacy.
So simple actions like using multi-factor authentication, setting up the automatic software updates, and avoiding unknown and unexpected links, those all go a really long way towards protecting our individuals and our friends and family against these cyber threats.
Frequently changing passwords and making social media accounts private are additional practices to use for good cybersecurity.
If you've been a victim of a cyber attack or if you have questions about cybersecurity, you can contact DATCAP's Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-422-7128 or by email at datcphotline at wi.gov.
Community members are invited to participate in A Day of Power at the Wisconsin State Capitol Tuesday, October 13th.
The event offers constituents an opportunity to engage directly with state lawmakers, including scheduled meetings with the offices of Senator Sarah Kieske and Representative Tony Kurtz.
Local participation is strongly encouraged as legislative offices prioritize meeting with people from their districts.
The day begins with a briefing at 10 a.m.
followed by small team office visits with neighbors starting at 1 p.m.
The event will conclude at 4 30 p.m.
with the state of the campaign address.
Participation in the event is completely free of charge.
Complimentary coach transportation is available for attendees leaving Verroqua at 7 a.m.
and Richland Center
at 7.45 a.m.
Seats for the coach must be reserved by the end of the day tomorrow.
For those who cannot attend the full day, registration is available for just the 4.30 p.m.
address.
To register or find more detailed information, visit NO-NO-765-LINE.org.
Governor Tony Evers and leaders from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation joined representatives from EMD Electronics to celebrate the grand opening of a new 38,000 square foot research and development center in Sheboygan Falls.
The facility represents part of a $200 million commitment to expand advanced semiconductor material, manufacturing and development.
across Wisconsin, creating 44 high-paying jobs in the region.
The state-of-the-art site features eight specialized laboratories designed for synthesis, scale-up, and technology transfer.
These labs enable EMD electronics to partner directly with clients to accelerate next-generation semiconductor materials from initial research to commercial production.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the facility targets
LEED gold certification and utilizes geothermal energy, heat pumps, energy recovery systems, and renewable power to minimize its environmental footprint.
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is currently accepting applications for the 2026 Buy Local Buy Wisconsin grant program through November 4th.
A total of $200,000 in funding will be awarded to strengthen the state's agriculture and food industries by improving the processing, marketing and distribution of local food products.
Qualified applicants, including local producers, processors, distributors, retailers, and agricultural tourism operations, may request funding between $5,000 and $50,000 for projects lasting up to three years.
Program recipients are required to provide a matching contribution equal to at least half of the overall budget with selected project work scheduled to commence in January, 2027.
Since launching in 2008, the Bi-Local Bi-Wisconsin Initiative has invested over $3.42 million across 134 projects, driving more than $15.1 million in new local food sales and supporting hundreds of jobs across Wisconsin.
Application details and materials can be accessed on the DATCAP website.
Gas prices across Wisconsin and the broader United States have seen a notable decline over the past week, bringing welcome relief to drivers, according to recent survey data from GasBuddy.
The average price of gasoline in Wisconsin dropped by 16.2 cents per gallon to reach $4.14 per gallon.
On a national level, gas prices fell 12.5 cents on average, bringing the U.S.
figure to $4.30 per gallon.
Diesel prices have also trended downward, with the national average dropping 14.2 cents to $6.31 per gallon.
Despite these recent declines, fuel costs remain significantly higher than they were at this time last year.
Drivers in Wisconsin are currently paying $1.37 per gallon more than a year ago, while the national average is $1.22 per gallon higher over the same period.
Monthly comparisons show prices up 33.5 cents per gallon in Wisconsin and 19.3 cents per gallon nationally compared to one month ago.
Industry experts attribute the recent relief to a broad retreat in prices across nearly every state.
Patrick DeHaan, head of Petroleum Analysis at GasBuddy, noted that 48 states recorded drops in both gasoline and diesel prices over the past week.
Some of the sharpest decreases occurred in Georgia and Ohio due to recently enacted fuel tax cuts, alongside drops in regions across Florida and the Midwest.
While price drops may continue in the near term for many states, analysts caution that refinery bottlenecks in international supply chains continue to keep refined fuel prices somewhat elevated relative to crude oil levels.
In a significant step aimed at reducing operational costs for agricultural producers, U.S.
Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke Rollins released a statement regarding President Trump's executive order providing dyed diesel tax relief.
The measure is designed to deliver direct economic relief to the nation's farmers and ranchers
as they work to navigate ongoing supply chain demands and short-term financial pressures.
The newly enacted order grants enforcement discretion for the on-road use of dyed diesel, allowing agricultural operations to lower fuel expenditures during peak harvest periods.
Federal estimates project that this policy change will yield roughly $640 million in combined federal and state tax savings, benefiting operations spanning across an estimated 224.6 million harvested acres nationwide.
emphasizing the connection between energy policy and agricultural efficiency.
Secretary Rollins commended the administration for prioritizing the energy needs of rural communities.
She noted that expanding domestic energy production serves as a crucial foundation for keeping production costs manageable and ensuring that American farmers remain competitive and resilient on the global stage.
The final group of soldiers assigned to the 1st Battalion 121st Field Artillery Regiment, Wisconsin Army National Guard, will be formally recognized as they return home to Wisconsin following a nearly year-long mobilization within the U.S.
Central Command area of responsibility.
A homecoming event to schedule for today at the Appleton Flight Center headquartered in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.
The 1-121st includes Battery A in Hartford, Battery B in Two Rivers and the 108th Forward Support Company in Sussex as a unit of the 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade based in Milwaukee.
The battalion has continuously modernized its capabilities
transitioning over the years from the M109 howitzer to the M270 multiple launch rocket system in 2003 and deploying with the M142 high mobility artillery rocket system since 2010.
The regiment traces its lineage to the establishment of Milwaukee's first artillery battery on May 11th, 1885.
Originally consisting of just 65 artillery men,
The unit expanded and was officially redesignated as the 121st Field Artillery Regiment, September 19, 1917, ahead of its service in World War I. Over the past century, elements of the 121st FAR have answered the call of duty.
During World War II, the global war on terror and numerous domestic relief and security operations across Wisconsin.
The final group of soldiers assigned to the 1st Battalion 121st Field Artillery Regiment will be formally recognized as they return to Wisconsin following a nearly year-long mobilization.
Today's vital statistics are sponsored by Krause Monument.
Krause Monument designs and produces granite headstones, gravestones, grave markers, monuments, and memorials.
Today is October 6th.
These are today's vital statistics.
Mary Waslik, 76 of Casanovia.
died Wednesday, September 30th, at the Sock County Health Care Center in Reedsburg.
A visitation for Mary will be held Friday, October 9th, from 4 p.m.
until 7 p.m.
at the Casanovia Chapel.
The Farber Funeral Home in Reedsburg is assisting the family.
Mary Waslik, 76 of Casanovia.
Connie Jean McElroy, 77, formerly of Richland Center, died Sunday, October 4th.
A funeral mass will be held Saturday, October 24th at 11 a.m.
at St.
Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Richland Center, with visitation from 10 a.m.
until the time of mass at 11.
Friends and family are invited to join the family for a time of gathering and a meal immediately following mass.
The family asks that memorials be directed in Connie's memory to continue the movement to end Alzheimer's.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Connie Jean McElroy, 77, formerly of Richland Center.
Margaret J. Peggy Ryan, 78 of Richland Center, died Sunday, September 27 at Schmidt Woodland Hills following an extended illness.
Services will be held at a later date.
Margaret J. Peggy Ryan, 78 of Richland Center.
Julie...
Ann Ripley, 69 of Bear Valley, died Wednesday, September 30 at Schmidt Within Hills.
Upon Julie's wishes, no formal funeral services will be held.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
Julie Ann Ripley, 69 of Bear Valley.
Victor Edward Jelenick, 75 of Webster City, Iowa, formerly of Richland Center, died Thursday, September 17th.
Private family graveside services were held at the Kilvery Cemetery in Webster City.
Victor Edward Jelenick, 75 of Webster City, Iowa, formerly of Richland Center.
This concludes today's vital statistics.
Good evening, everyone.
For WRCO News, I'm Todd Copernall.
The City of Richland Center will not receive county funding for the care of veterans graves this cycle after missing the annual statutory deadline.
Under Wisconsin Statute 45.85 Chapter 2, governing bodies must submit grave locations and reports to the county clerk on or before September 1 of each year.
Because the city submitted its documentation to the deputy clerk on September 14th, two weeks past the legal cutoff, Richland County has stated it is unable to process the request or issue payments.
Although the statements were certified on August 30th using the county's designated worksheet, county clerk Jeffrey Harrison in an email exchange with the city confirmed that state law allows no extensions or workarounds for missed deadlines.
Addressing concerns raised by city administrator Ashley Oliphant regarding the fiscal impact on the municipal budget, the county clarified that no payment or review will occur for this cycle.
However, the city is eligible to resubmit the grave records for reimbursement during the next cycle in 2027.
In response, the City of Richland Center has filed a petition for a writ of mandamus in Richland County Circuit Court against Richland County.
Also naming Board of Supervisors Chair Carrie Severson and Harrison as respondents.
Severson and Harrison are named strictly based on their official capacities.
The lawsuit, filed October 1, seeks to compel the county to reimburse the city $17,859.83 for expenses incurred while caring for eligible veterans' graves and tombstones between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026.
According to the court filing, the city provided maintenance and care for a total of 1,495 veterans grave sites across two local cemeteries, including 46 sites at Bowen Cemetery and 1,449 sites at Richland Center Cemetery.
Under Wisconsin Statute 45.85, municipal common councils are obligated to ensure proper care for veterans graves.
While the financial burden of such care is legally mandated to be borne by the county in which the graves are located, provided that suitable care is not otherwise supplied.
On September 15th, county officials denied the reimbursement request, strictly on the grounds that the submission passed the stated deadline.
A subsequent request by the city on September 21st to process the claim despite the late filing was not granted, leaving the full amount unpaid.
In its petition, the city argues that the reporting deadlines established by statute and county ordinance
are directory rather than mandatory because the governing laws do not explicitly dictate the forfeiture of underlying reimbursement rights for late filings.
The city contends that a procedural delay should not eliminate the county's statutory obligation
to bear the costs of caring for veterans' graves.
The city asserts that the late report contained all necessary information to evaluate the claim and caused no prejudice to the county, making a writ of mandamus appropriate to direct full reimbursement and enforce compliance with state law.
Community members who've been diagnosed with pre-diabetes told they are at risk for diabetes or identified with elevated blood sugar levels.
Now have a direct pathway to improve their health.
The Richland Hospital and Clinics has announced the return of its popular wellness workshop.
set to begin Wednesday, October 21st, designed to provide participants with practical tools, education, and encouragement.
The program focuses on helping individuals make sustainable changes to prevent or reverse the onset of type 2 diabetes.
The five-week program meets every other week and is available for a $40 registration fee.
Included in the cost is a TANITA body composition scan, an advanced assessment that provides a comprehensive look at an individual's physical health by measuring muscle mass
body fat percentage, hydration levels, and other key wellness indicators.
To ensure the workshop remains accessible to everyone in the community, financial scholarship assistance is available for those who qualify.
Health care professionals involved with the workshop emphasize the critical importance of early action.
Ty Mohullen registered dietician and certified diabetes care and education specialist.
Noted that pre-diabetes serves as an essential warning sign that the body is struggling to manage blood sugar properly.
However, Mulholland points out that progression to type 2 diabetes is not inevitable.
Modest weight loss, healthier nutritional habits, routine physical activity, stress reduction and adequate sleep can dramatically alter health outcomes and reduce long-term risks.
Because pre-diabetes rarely presents noticeable symptoms, experts stress the necessity of attending annual checkups and paying attention to elevated blood lab results.
Registered dietitians and workshop leaders Kelly Herbert and Lindsay Hatfield highlight that the program aims to build achievable long-term habits rather than temporary fixes.
By focusing on realistic movement and daily dietary adjustments, the workshop guides participants towards steady, meaningful progress in an engaging and supportive classroom setting.
Space in the upcoming session is limited and interested community members are encouraged to enroll early.
For additional information regarding workshop details, scholarship applications, or registration, individuals can contact the Richland Hospital and Clinics directly by calling 608-647-6321 extension 2480.
The Richland Center Budget Committee meets today at 5.30 p.m.
The committee last convened September 1st to conduct regular municipal business and review key financial matters.
The committee examined delinquent personal property tax accounts, noting that letters were issued for $5,472.67 in delinquent taxes, while $39,826.64 in uncollectible accounts from closed businesses may eventually be submitted to the Common Council for write-off.
Additionally, the committee approved the bill's list, including specialized regional planning expenses and municipal lawn care costs for un-maintained properties, which will be billed as special assessments.
Looking ahead to future business, the committee slated two major items for ongoing evaluation and possible action.
Members will discuss Resolution 2026-12, which proposes authorizing an advance from the general fund to finance the Valley View Drive Street Project, ensuring necessary infrastructure improvements can proceed smoothly.
Additionally, the committee will open discussion on potential cost containment opportunities for the 2027 budget, aiming to identify efficiencies and maintain fiscal discipline across municipal operations in the coming fiscal year.
The Richland County Executive and Finance Standing Committee and the Richland County Campus Reconfiguration Committee met in a joint session Monday, October 5th to address key decisions surrounding the future of the UW campus property in Richland Center.
During the meeting at the Richland County Courthouse, members convened in a closed session to review a memorandum of understanding regarding the proposed acquisition of campus property alongside the potential sale of a county parcel
situated at 1200 US Highway 14 West.
Upon returning to open session, the Joint Committee voted to direct Corporate Council to incorporate specific revisions into the MOU prior to submitting the agreement to the City Council for further consideration.
In addition to the MOU discussions, the committee's reviewed a comprehensive concept map
prepared by Veerbicker Engineering.
The redevelopment framework outlines a diverse range of land uses intended to revitalize the campus area.
The plan allocates approximately 10 acres for single-family housing, 13.5 acres for multifamily residential units, 8 acres for a combined governmental and commercial business park, and 2 acres dedicated specifically to commercial business development.
Additional commercial parcels measuring one acre and 0.5 acres are designated along Highway 14 and West 6th Street.
Key community assets are also incorporated into the blueprint, including designated properties set aside for transfer to the local school district and the retention of the Simons Recreation Complex site within the development footprint.
The redevelopment is structured to proceed across multiple distinct phases,
Phase 1A focuses on infrastructure enhancements to Hive Drive through a joint partnership between the City and the Richland School District.
Phase 1B involves the construction of initial street networks, utility infrastructure, and approximately 20 single-family homes.
Subsequent phases 2 and 3 will complete the broader road network, facilitate driveway relocations, incorporate potential stormwater management features, and undertake bridge
configuration along Highway 14.
None of these things have been decided.
They are in the discussion phase.
The Richland School District has issued an official notice for its upcoming annual meeting for the transaction of business scheduled for Wednesday, October 21st at 7 p.m.
The meeting will take place in the Richland Center High School, IMC, in Richland Center.
District electors and community members are invited to attend and participate in the official proceedings.
A major portion of the evening will focus on the 2026-27 budget hearing.
School officials will present the proposed district budget before formally opening the floor for public discussion and feedback, after which the hearing will be closed.
Following the budget presentation, electors will vote on key resolutions, including the adoption of tax levies for general operations, debt service, and community services.
Additional action items include setting board...
member salaries, approving expense reimbursements and authorizing the board to manage district property, secure short-term loans if necessary, and schedule next year's annual meeting.
The Boscobel Mobile Pack for Feed My Starving Children has announced its upcoming main packing event scheduled for April 8th through the 10th in Boscobel.
Community members and volunteers are coming together to support this crucial effort aiming to pack essential meals.
for children in need worldwide.
To support their goals for the 2027 PAC, organizers are hosting a harvest dinner and live auction fundraiser Saturday, October 10th.
The event features a meal with a suggested $15 donation, followed by a live auction starting at 6 p.m.
All items available at the auction are generously donated
by community members.
Donations of quality goods as well as homemade pies for the dinner are welcomed and can be dropped off at Boscobel Bowl and Banquet from 4 until 8 p.m.
Thursday, October 8 or Friday, October 9.
Pickup arrangements can also be made for individuals unable to deliver their donations in person.
Event hosts Bruce and Catherine Pitzley.
Encourage everyone to get involved and share information with friends and family.
For more details on the event or to make a contribution, interested parties can contact Bruce Pitzley at 608-485-2678 or Catherine Pitzley at 608-485-2554.
Westbound lanes of Interstate 90-94 in Columbia County were shut down for two and a half hours Monday morning following a three vehicle commercial crash near Portage.
According to authorities, the incident occurred around 11.46 a.m.
Monday, October 5, near MyoMarker 106.
Two commercial motor vehicles traveling westbound had slowed down for traffic, approaching a work zone when a third commercial vehicle failed to reduce speed.
The third vehicle struck the second, causing a chain reaction that pushed it into the lead truck.
One person sustained minor injuries in the collision.
Emergency responders temporarily closed the westbound travel lanes and instituted an alternative route to handle traffic.
All lanes were successfully reopened by approximately 2.25 p.m.
Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, including the Columbia County Sheriff's Office, the Columbia County Highway Department, the Portage Fire Department, Divine Savior EMS,
and Blystones.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court will decide if municipalities can regulate short-term rentals.
A rental property group sued the Village of Summit in 2019 over the village's attempt to regulate how often short-term rentals could be rented and for how long.
The rental company cited a state regulation which prohibits local zoning ordinances from restricting short-term rentals.
The village says its ordinance is not zoning.
but a police power, both Waukesha County Courts and the Appeals Court, sided with the property owners.
Oral arguments in the case are scheduled for Thursday.
Vital statistics right after this.