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TOWN OF BLACK WOLF 380 E. Black Wolf Ave. Oshkosh, WI 54902 Phone: (920) 688-1404 Fax: (920) 688-1405 E-mail: tbw@northnet.net ___________________________________________________________________________________ General Information News Meetings Calendar Agendas-Minutes Forms Garbage-Recycling Ordinances Property Taxes Tax Collection Newsletters Smart Growth Picture Page |
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____________________________________________________________________________________ NOTE: Newsletters for Spring 2009, Fall 2008, Spring 2008, Fall 2007, and Spring 2007 are shown below. ____________________________________________________________________________________
2009 SPRING Newsletter
CHANGES COMING IN GARBAGE PICK-UP THIS YEAR
It is expected that by July 1, 2009, Black Wolf residents will see significant changes in the garbage/waste and recyclable material collection program:
(Wednesday) for all Town residents 2) Winnebago County will begin single-stream collection of recyclables (all recyclables can be put in a single container and collected each week): a. However, the Town can opt out of single-stream collection. b. Even if we opt out, clear or blue bags can no longer be used after July 1. 3) If the Town opts in, Veolia has offered to rent standard waste containers to Town residents a. These will allow automated pickup of waste and recyclables. b. Per month costs for garbage/waste and recyclable collection will increase from $8.53 to $11.98. c. A variety of container sizes will be available (35, 65 and 95 gallons) and residents can choose which size(s) they need. Obviously, there are many choices and issues to be discussed. We encourage you to attend the Town meeting at the Town Hall on Monday, March 16 and
Tom Herzing, Supervisor I (Cell: 379-4433) ANNUAL MEETING The Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, SPRING ELECTION APRIL 7TH Everyone is encouraged to vote! All incumbent Town of Black Wolf elected officials will be on the ballot, State and County contests, and the Oshkosh Area School District referendum. Are you REGISTERED to vote? If unsure, you can do either of the following: Call the Town Hall Office at 688-1404 OR go online to the state’s voter public access website http://elections.state.wi.us, click on “Check Registration Status Polling Location, please use Voter Public Access: Click here” If you are NOT REGISTERED, and want to avoid waiting in line at the polls, register prior to the election date. Stop in at the Town Hall Office during normal business hours. The Voter Registration Form (EB 131) is available at the Town Hall office, on our website, or online at: http://elections.state.wi.us/index.asp Search for Keyword “Forms” – All Forms EB 131 Voter Registration Application – You may fill in the form online and then print it out. After completing the form, bring it to the Town office any afternoon (Noon-5 pm), except Wednesdays. You must provide your Wisconsin driver’s license with your current Town of Black Wolf address. If you don’t have a Wisconsin driver’s license, you may use the last four digits of your Social Security number and provide proof of residency. Acceptable items include a bank statement, paycheck, sanitary district bill, etc. which shows your name and current Black Wolf address. IMPORTANT DATES March 16 – Recycle & Garbage Town Meeting April 7 – Spring Election April 14 – Annual Meeting Early June – The Open Book is expected to be held in early June, according to Assessor John Bodouski, Bowmar Appraisals (920 733-5379). Watch the website and posting boxes for more information, or call the Town Hall office at 688-1404. CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR RECYCLING EFFORTS
Out of the 16 Towns in Winnebago County, Black Wolf placed 3rd for the number of tons recycled materials per person: 1st place – Town of Clayton 250 tons 2nd Place – Town of Neenah 240 tons 3rd Place – Town of Black Wolf 221 tons The Winnebago County Sunnyview Landfill has made several changes. The rate charged for televisions and monitors is reduced to $5 each (limit 4). All computers, televisions and other electronics dropped off will be recycled, regardless of whether the customer is a business or resident. There is also an ongoing light bulb recycling program. Fluorescent bulbs (including tube, compact, circular, U-tube and other) as well as incandescent bulbs can be recycled for 25 cents each every day. An E-Waste Round-up was held last November and 200 residents brought in over 25,590 lbs. of televisions, computers and other electronics for recycling. The on-going electronics recycling program in 2008 resulted in 75,461 lbs. (nearly double that collected in 2007). All loads must be secured with a tarp to enter the landfill station...you won’t be admitted without one. They are open Monday-Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 7:00 a.m. until Noon. Please check their website for a list of items and fee schedule or call 232-1800. http://www.co.winnebago.wi.us/Solid_Waste/Landfill.htm SANITARY DISTRICT BILLS Did you know that you can drop off payments for your quarterly sanitary district bills in the slot on the door of the Sanitary District building? That’s the building located East of the Town Hall.
Having the right insurance is necessary to cover damage to a furnace, hot water heater, washer, dryer, etc. when damaged by a flooded basement. To cover losses, a sewage backup policy is needed, and to be on the safe side add flood insurance. For example, flood insurance covers rain flooding into the basement from the window. A sewage backup policy covers damage from sewage backing up into a basement, which was the case for many residents last year. For homeowners, a sewage backup policy costs about $50 per year for $5,000 in coverage and $220 year for $50,000 in coverage. That breaks down to slightly more than $4 per month for the less expensive policy and $18 more per month for the better coverage. Storm Water Management Tom Verstegen, Zoning Administrator As you are may be aware, the Town of Black Wolf was required by the WDNR to apply for a stormwater discharge permit for the “urbanized” area east of South US Hwy 45. That permit was granted in 2008. The permitting process is an effort to clean up any water being discharged to Lake Winnebago. One of the requirements of the permit is that the Town must create an ordinance for controlling illicit discharges to the stormwater sewer system (ditches) in the township. Chuck Nahn, Nahn and Associates, the consulting firm hired to walk the Town through the permitting process, has a great deal of experience working with the WDNR on stormwater issues. He has recommended a couple of changes to the Town’s existing ordinances as well as creating a new ordinance specifically directed at illicit discharges. These recommendations will be reviewed by the Town’s Planning and Zoning Committee. Prior to any changes in the Town’s Ordinances, a public hearing will be held for public input. Please stay informed and be aware that these mandatory changes are coming. Frank Frassetto, Town Board Chairman
Update on Establishing a Railroad Quiet Zone in the Town The Town of Black Wolf continues to pursue the establishment of a quiet zone and at this point we are much closer to finishing this project. Thomas Boyke, Project Engineer at Ruekert-Mielke has been assisting the town to establish our quiet zone. After many contacts with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), Mr. Boyke sent a letter to the FRA on February 5th requesting a Petition of Waiver to include the closures of both Swiss Road and the realignment of Country Club as part of the risk reduction calculations that are used to create quiet zones. To date, we’ve not yet received confirmation from the FRA that our request is in their system for review but we expect to hear word in the very near future. Based on discussions between the FRA and Mr. Boyke, we are cautiously optimistic that a waiver will be granted as there have been many towns making similar requests as they, too, create quiet zones. Once a decision has been made and we are notified of it, I will report back to the town either through the minutes of our regular monthly town board meeting or via the newsletter. Bob Keller, Supervisor II (Cell: 379-0717) Bridge Replacement Projects: Planning and approval of the Lone Elm and Koelpin bridge replacement projects began in the Spring of 2006. Bids were let in December 2008. The contract award will be given to Radtke Contractors, Inc. We expect a construction start and completion in Spring or early Summer of 2009. We are getting 90% financial assistance from Federal, State and County agencies from the Local Bridge Program. We have initiated an application at the County level for the same program for a third town bridge repair or replacement at Black Wolf Avenue located .8 miles east of CR-R. This project may be a candidate for federal stimulus funding. We are investigating our option for both programs. Road Maintenance: We will complete road inspections in April for the development of the Summer maintenance schedule. Please call the Town office if you know of any special requirements. Note: We have had a high incidence of signs being stolen from locations required by law. As the signs were replaced, they were again stolen. This has been reported to the Winnebago County Sheriff. We would appreciate any information which may help us reduce this maintenance cost to the Town. We will begin a project to replace existing address signs. The intention is to create a more uniform style and placement of the address signs. This will help emergency vehicle drivers as well as visitors find our home locations. The placement and style will be similar to what can be seen in Fond du Lac County. The project will be completed in phases. Mailbox Safety Reminder: New, existing and replaced mailboxes can pose a safety hazard. Although we have no regulations at this time regarding mailbox installation, it is the responsibility of the resident to provide a safe installation. Please check with the post office for any regulations as to mailbox installation. There are a number of internet websites which address the safety issues. Basically, the main threat is a heavy box parting from the post and entering the passenger compartment. Hazards include: masonry installations, large receptacles filled with sand or concrete, metal posts larger than 1-1/2” inside diameter and wood posts larger than a nominal 4 inches square or 4 inches in diameter. Please use discretion when installing mailbox structures.
A plot with neither toil nor weeds!
Four-Year Voter Maintenance On February 20, 2009, approximately 313,205 State of Wisconsin voters were mailed a Notice of Suspension of Registration postcard by the Government Accounting Board (GAB). These voters had not voted in the past four (4) years, and they will be given until March 23rd to respond and continue their registration. Voters can check the State’s Voter Access website to check their registration status and voting history: https://vpa.wi.gov Voters being sent the postcard continue to have an “Active” voter status, were included on poll lists for the February 17th Spring Primary Election, and will remain on the poll list for the April 7th Spring Election. “This mailing is not designed to keep any active voter’s name off the poll list...Rather it is designed to help Wisconsin maintain accurate and quality voter data, and make sure every voter is listed under his/her correct name and at the current address.” BLACK WOLF SANITARY DISTRICT This spring the Sanitary District will be televising the last 15 leaking house laterals identified during last springs mainline televising. Now that all of our main lines have been televised, we will be monitoring the system for clear water infiltration by spot checking manholes during wet conditions. To help with this spot checking, the District has purchased its own push camera. If we find areas of higher flow, this camera will allow us to identify the source. This camera will also enable us to televise and locate house laterals for residents in our Sanitary District. If a district resident wishes to have their lateral televised or located, please call the District office to set up an appointment (920 233-2901). The cost is $75.00/hour. It is a good idea to have your sewer lateral located before digging, planting trees or any kind of construction. The district will be restoring lawns around the manholes that we repaired last summer. We must wait for soil temperature to warm enough for the seed to germinate. Your patience is appreciated. Finally, we would like to remind residents that they can drop off their user fees in the District’s office drop slot. The slot is located in the District office door. This may be worth the drive with postage rising to 44 cents this summer. By: Chuck Linde John McDermott, Town Treasurer Lottery Credit: Make sure you check your tax bills each year to make sure you have received a lottery credit. If you are a new resident to the Town of Black Wolf, you will need to apply for the lottery credit. The form is available in the Town office, or at the Wisconsin Department of Revenue website (Form LC300). Call the Town office 688-1404 or the WI Department of Revenue (608) 266-9457 or (608) 266-0772 for more information. Escrow Payments: Depending on your mortgage company, there are usually several options when it comes to paying your property tax escrow check. The two most common methods are: 1. The mortgage company sends you the check payable to you and to the Town. By using this method you will usually receive the check faster, and puts the timing of your payment in your control. You are also sure that the check has been sent to us. 2. The mortgage company sends the check directly to the Town. This method is more direct, but experience has shown that many taxpayers go through major frustrations due to incorrect mailing address, etc. Whichever method you select, it is recommended that you contact your mortgage company to make sure they have our correct mailing address and other necessary information. Reminders about tax collection: · Business-size, self addressed stamped envelopes should be enclosed with your tax payments and/or dog license payment. Beginning this Fall, the Town will not be mailing you a real estate tax receipt or dog license tag unless you provide a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Copies of your receipt can be produced, on demand, when you visit the Town Hall. · One check may be written for all payments (including dog licenses). · If you have concerns about your assessment, call Bowmar Appraisal (920)733-5369 or attend the Open Book and/or Board of Review. Watch for these dates to be scheduled.
Chris Martell, Town Constable
Phone (920)
688-2445 Spring will be here soon and it’s time to send out a few reminders about pets. The Town’s dog ordinance states that dogs must be under control at all times. This doesn’t mean that the dog needs to be on a leash, but if that’s what is needed to keep a dog under control, then do so. With that in mind, if your dog does get away, call me at home (688-2445) so that I can make a note of it and call you back if I get a call or find your dog. If you find a dog running loose DO NOT CAPTURE OR HOLD THE DOG!! Don’t let it in your garage, put it in your kennel, tie it up or let a stray in your house! There have been many instances that a seemingly friendly dog turns on and harms the person(s) that has captured them. All stray or strange dogs should be treated with caution and not approached. Also, try not to leave food out for animals. If you feed them, they will return. This applies to dogs and cats. There are no ordinances regarding cats in the Town. If you have strays in your area and you want them captured, again, call me at home and I will do what I can to capture them. If you trap a cat on your own (without the knowledge of the Town) you will be responsible for the disposition of the animal. All animals are taken to the Oshkosh Area Humane Society. If you take a dog or cat to the shelter without prior authorization from the Town, you will be charged $35 per animal (or $35 for a litter of pups or kittens). If your pet has been captured and taken to the shelter, there is a fee for picking the pet up. Once an animal has been taken to the shelter, it must be claimed at the shelter. I cannot access the animal once it has been surrendered.
Spend lots and lots of time with them.
Building Permits Our Building Inspector, Dave Frank, issues Building Permits. Dave is available at the Town Hall Office on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 to 7:00 pm. You may also call Dave directly at his home phone: (920) 233-1999. Building Permits are required for the following:
March of Events March winds: blew skies St. Patrick’s Day: lark of the Irish Surprise blizzard: snowfluke Bees waiting for the first swarm weather. Spring! When the sun smiles and the earth greens back. May your eyes be a sparklin’ Like the lakes of Killarney! May your smile be the brightest, And your lips touched with blarney! May your heart be as happy, As a wee leprechaun, And your whole self be joyful From St. Patrick’s Day on! ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________
2008 FALL Newsletter Website: townofblackwolf.com E-mail: tbw@northnet.net ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ELECTION NEWS: Are you REGISTERED to vote? If unsure, you can do either of the following: Call the Town Hall Office at 688-14 OR Go online to the state’s voter public access website http://elections.state.wi.us, click on “Check Registration Status Polling Location, please use Voter Public Access: Click here” If you are NOT REGISTERED, and want to avoid long lines at the polls, register prior to the election date. The Voter Registration Form (EB 131) is available at the Town Hall office, on our website, or online at: http://elections.state.wi.us/index.asp Search for Keyword “Forms” – All Forms. The Application for Absentee Ballot is Form EB 121. EB 131 Voter Registration Application – You may fill in the form online and then print it out. After completing the form, bring it to the Town office any afternoon (Noon-5 pm), except Wednesdays. You must provide your Wisconsin driver’s license with your current Town of Black Wolf address. If you don’t have a Wisconsin driver’s license, you may use the last four digits of your Social Security number and provide proof of residency. Acceptable items include a bank statement, paycheck, sanitary district bill, etc. which shows your name and current Black Wolf address. Almost every political campaign has a happy ending. Everybody’s happy when it ends! IMPORTANT DATES Oct. 9 6:00 p.m. Sex Offender Information Education Meeting (presented by Sheriff’s Dept.) Nov. 10 6:30 p.m. Budget Hearing Nov. 17 7:00 p.m. Public Hearing – Proposed Comprehensive Plan
The new tri-county “single stream” recycling plant is under construction, and is expected to be operational by June, 2009. This will mean both co- mingled and paper products can be combined in one container. The three participating counties are Outagamie, Brown and Winnebago. More information on this will be included in the Spring, 2009 Newsletter. RADON TESTING Following a presentation by Jeffrey Phillips, Winnebago County Environmental Health Supervisor, the Town of Black Wolf will participate in a radon testing program. Radon gas is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer when inhaled. It’s a breakdown product of uranium, which occurs naturally in Winnebago County’s soil and bedrock. Radon gas seeps through the soil and enters homes and buildings through cracks in the foundation, through sump pits, and through crawl spaces. Once inside a building, radon accumulates and can result in an unhealthy environment During the month of November, 2008, a limited number of radon test kits will be available to residents at the Black Wolf Town Hall at a cost of $2/kit. After testing for radon, the kit is mailed to a lab to study, and individual test results are sent to participants. The Town will receive an overall rating once all samples have been tested. Informational booklets will also be available for those who are interested in the study. Anyone paying for a test kit should bring a check made out to the Town of Black Wolf or bring the exact amount
PICTURE THIS!
If any Town residents want to contribute to an electronic photo album to preserve the essence of life in the Town of Black Wolf, they are welcome to bring in photos that we can scan. Your photos will then be returned. Images already in digital form can be e-mailed to tbw@northnet.net along with information about the photo(s).
The internet has a site where you can view names and tombstone photos for five cemeteries located in the Town of Black Wolf: New Elm, Old Elm, Wilhelmina, St. John’s and Oaklawn. Goggle: genweb cemetery project Wisconsin. Then click on WiGenWebProject, select Winnebago County or go to: http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~usgenweb/wi/cemetery/ Town Board – Comments Frank Frassetto, Town Board Chairman
We continue to make progress on establishing a railroad quiet zone throughout the Town of Black Wolf. Currently Ruekert- Mielke Engineers, who have been authorized by the Town to help finish this project, are in discussions with the Office of the Commissioner of Railroads (WisDOT), the Federal Railroad Administration and the Canadian National Railroad in an effort to determine the remaining safety thresholds that need to be met (if any) by the Town of Black Wolf in order to achieve a town wide quiet zone designation. A rough timeline was put together by Ruekert-Mielke (see below) and provided to the Town on August 15th. The one caveat I’d like to add in keeping with this schedule is the timely input and responses necessary from all parties involved in this process. The Town Board will keep moving forward and pushing hard to get this matter concluded as expeditiously as possible. Here is the timeline
that I see remaining for the project: Based on discussions, we will develop any safety measure alternatives necessary. All other background information has been collected for the quiet zone calculator. Will have enough information for
you to discuss at your 10/13/08 Board Meeting. This submittal goes to the FRA, WisDOT and the Canadian National Railroad Company. They have 60 days to review and comment on the submittal. Typically very few comments or questions arise
from the submittal. everything is in place, you will submit a Notice of Quiet Zone Establishment. Once approved, the Quiet Zone will become active. Boundary Agreement with the City of OshkoshThe Town Board and the City of Oshkosh have been in more serious discussions during the last twelve months than ever in an effort to hammer out a boundary agreement that can be part of the Town’s updated Comprehensive Land Use Management Plan and that will allow the Town of Black Wolf to develop at our pace, unfettered from City intrusion. At our Annual Meeting in April of this year, a draft boundary agreement was presented to the electors who authorized the Town Board to continue the process with the City. Since then, an agreement was negotiated that established a map identifying Town and City Growth Areas as well as a Rural Preservation Area (joint Town and City powers), a 40 year agreement length and language that protects citizens from annexation in City Growth Areas for an extended period of time. The final plan was presented at a public hearing on September 16 and was approved by the Town’s electors. The Town’s attorney, John St. Peter, went through the plan, item by item, giving his perspective on the final product. I thought you all might be interested in reading some of his take on what the Town has achieved in this regard. Said John, "I've represented many towns in border negotiations with their neighboring Cities and Villages. Without question the most difficult hurdle is the development of a map that fairly allocates future growth between the incorporated municipality and the local town. More often than not the municipality seeks excessive territory and, further complicating matters, also seeks to place roadblocks against further town development. However, in the case of the Town of Black Wolf's proposed agreement with the City of Oshkosh, the Town Board has been able to protect substantial portions of the Town against annexation to the City. Further, the territory delineated as Town Growth Area, may be developed according to the Town's comprehensive plan not the City's. This could not have been accomplished had the Town Board and City staff not already had a constructive relationship. I support the proposed agreement and recommend its approval." There are still a few legal and procedural formalities that need to be done before this agreement can be finalized but we’re hopeful the process will continue to steadily move forward to its ultimate conclusion. Tom Herzing, Town Board Supervisor I Cell Phone: 379-4433 The State of Wisconsin had adopted legislation requiring towns and counties to develop long-range land use plans that will encourage “smart growth” (in effect, controlling sprawl and careless development). Black Wolf has contracted with Martinson & Eisele to assist in the development of its plan and has appointed an ad hoc Plan Commission made up of interested citizens and members of its existing Planning & Zoning Committee to develop a working draft. Jim Chitwood has chaired the Plan Commission through its four meetings. A draft has been developed and is now ready for public review and comment. A Public Hearing has been scheduled for 7:00 p.m. November 17th at the Town Hall. Among issues to be reviewed in particular are the need for new or modified ordinances to achieve the Town’s goal of maintaining its rural character while overseeing the growth process for the next ten years and the Town’s plan for future growth. Bob Keller, Town Board Supervisor II Cell Phone 379-0717 Bridge Replacement Projects - Planning and approval of the Lone Elm and Koelpin bridge replacement projects began in the Spring of 2006. Initially, we thought construction would start in 2008. We are now confident there will be a bid letting yet this year, with a construction start and completion in spring or early summer of 2009. We are getting 90% financial assistance from Federal, State and County agencies. Many approvals are required for such monetary support. Our consulting engineering firm is reporting all is now in place. Road Maintenance - This summer we resurfaced East Ripple Avenue and portions of Weyerhorst Creek Road. Seal costing was also completed on the other portions of Weyerhorst Creek Road. The County completed crack sealing and other maintenance throughout the Town. Numerous signs were updated and replaced. Watch for Street Sign Thieves
reported to the County Sheriff. We appreciate any information which may help us reduce this maintenance cost to the Town. Please report any suspected activities to the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office at 236-7300.
Mailbox Safety New, existing and replaced mailboxes can pose a safety hazard. Although we have no regulations at this time regarding mailbox installation, it is the responsibility of the resident to provide a safe installation. Please check with the Post Office for any regulations to the mailbox installations. There are a number of web sites which address the safety issues. Basically, the main threat is a heavy box parting from the post and entering the passenger compartment. Please use discretion when installing mailbox structures. Hazardous installations include
Winter Road Maintenance We had utilized three snow plow drivers last year. It was a severe snowfall year. In anticipation of another similar year, we have added a fourth driver. As the snowplowing season begins, please continue to call about any special situations that you wish to report. We welcome such calls, as our drivers are available and willing to address most situations. Our snowplowing policy has been included in Fall newsletters in the past. Part of that policy includes a reminder not to push snow across the road. I wish to emphasize WI Stat. 346.96(5), which prohibits placing injurious substances on the roadway. This includes pushing snow from your driveway across the road into the ditch. This can cause damage to the snow plow equipment, reduction of road width, obstruction of safe views of the road, as well as reduced drainage. We received numerous complaints of this being done last year. When necessary, the Town may request the Sheriff’s Department to issue citations. One final note: Please refrain from placing objects in the road right-of-way as they can cause a hazard to snow plowing equipment and others. Drive safely.
Our crews will remove snow from all Town roads as well as from private roads that qualify under the following conditions: · There must be at least three permanent and inhabited residences served by the private road. · A private road must be maintained, at the owners’ expense, in such a fashion as to not cause damage to the Town snow removal vehicle. Brush, trees, low-hanging wires, signposts, and mailboxes must not interfere with plow access. · A private road must have a road bed sufficient to support the Town vehicle and an area large enough to turn the vehicle around without damage to the vehicle or surrounding property. Private roads are plowed under conditions stated above as a service to the residents for fire and emergency protection. Other Plowing Policies and Conditions · Private roads are not salted, sanded, signed or maintained by the Town. · Private roads or driveways with two or less residents are not plowed by the Town. · Gravel roads are not plowed until there is sufficient frost to prevent damage by the plow. · Repair of damage caused by snow removal such as gravel in lawns or damage to sod along a road, is the responsibility of the property owners. · Town roads and private roads East of Highway 45 and some private roads West of Highway 45 are plowed by the small white town truck. Town roads West of Highway 45 are plowed by the large orange town truck. Efforts are made to coordinate the two in order to best serve the residents. Equipment availability and breakdowns will at times limit the ability to clear all roads immediately. An agreement has been made with Winnebago County Highway Department to plow roads when there is Town equipment breakdown. However, if and when the County is needed to plow, the Town receives the lowest priority. A special “THANK YOU” to the many residents who help maintain Town right-of-ways, ditches, and fire lanes from litter, debris, vegetation growth or whatever. It has not gone unnoticed. Your efforts have helped keep the highway costs from “snowballing” during this time of year. REMINDERS: DO NOT snowplow or blow snow onto the roadways or across the road into the ditches. Ditches and culverts must be left open for drainage and safety. Large rocks or other decorative items should not be place on the road right-of-ways. The plows in winter and grass cutters in spring and summer need an unobtrusive area to be effective. WI Statute 346.95(5) “Placing injurious substance on highway. No person shall place or cause to be placed upon a highway (roadway) any foreign substance which is or may be injurious to any vehicle or part thereof.” This includes pushing snow from your driveway across the road into the ditch. WARNING: By law, you are required to stay a minimum of 200’ from a snow plow truck. This applies to all snow plow trucks. Property and Mortgage Fraud Property owners in Winnebago County can now be alerted anytime a transaction involving their property takes place. The Winnebago County Register of Deeds is now offering a free service aimed to help fight property and mortgage fraud, which is the fastest growing white collar crime, according to the FBI. Someone can create a fraudulent document and file it with the Register of Deeds Office, thereby taking over the property’s title. The individual can then use the title to obtain money by selling the property or securing a loan. After registering with the service property owners will receive an alert by phone or email anytime a document pertaining to the property is recorded in Winnebago County Register of Deeds Office. Register by going to www.propertyfraudalert.com/winnebagowi or call (920) 236 4881 for more information. John McDermott, Town Treasurer Tax Collection for 2008 Taxes Please note: Ø Receipts for taxes and/or dog licenses will not be mailed unless you furnish a self-addressed, stamped large/business size envelope. Ø One check may be made out for all payments, including dog licenses and multiple parcels. You do not need separate checks for your taxes or dog license(s). Ø Make sure you check your tax bill to see if you received a lottery credit. If you are a new resident, you will need to apply for the lottery credit. Forms are available in the Town office or at the Dept. of Revenue website. (Form LC 100) Ø If paying taxes in 2008 for income tax purposes, the postmark must be on or before December 31, 2008 or put in the 24-Hour Access DROP BOX before midnight (12/31/2008). Ø All other first installments paid by mail must have a postmark of January 31, 2009 or put in the 24-Hour Access DROP BOX before midnight (1/31/2009). Ø The Town of Black Wolf Treasurer cannot collect any taxes after January 31, 2009. If you do not pay by this date, you will need to make your payment directly to the Winnebago County Treasurer. Ø Please do not use staples or tape. Statutory Due Dates: Payment in full: You may pay your taxes in full to the Town of Black Wolf Treasurer by January 31, 2009. Installment method: If you elect the installment method, your first installment payment must be paid to the Town of Black Wolf on or before January 31, 2009. Your second installment payment must be paid to Winnebago County on or before July 31, 2009. The Town of Black Wolf Treasurer cannot collect any taxes after January 31, 2009. Payments made after that date will be returned. PAYMENT BY MAIL Please make checks payable to Town of Black Wolf and mail to: Town of Black Wolf, Attn: Collections 380 E Black Wolf Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54902 And, include a stamped self-addressed envelope. DROP BOX 24 HOUR ACCESS There is a drop box at the entrance to the Town Hall. This provides a convenient way to drop off your payment. Payments dropped off prior to 12 midnight will be considered IN for that day. TREASURER OFFICE HOURS Treasurer hours for tax collection/dog licenses at the Town Hall, 380 E. Black Wolf Ave. are from 5:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. on: Wednesday, December 17, 2008 and Thursday, January 22, 2009 DOG LICENSING: Town Ordinance allows two (2) dogs per residence - Pursuant to Section 174.052, Wisconsin Statutes, all dogs 5 months or older must have a dog license and proof of vaccination against rabies. State law requires vaccination against rabies by a veterinarian within 30 days after a dog reaches 5 months of age, and re-vaccinated within 1 year. Older vaccinated dogs must be re-vaccinated when the certificate expires or within 3 years of the previous vaccination. Please make sure your dog has a rabies vaccination that is up-to-date prior to mailing or bringing in your payment. Licenses cannot be processed without proof of current rabies vaccination along with a self-addressed, stamped business/large size envelope. Fees Neutered Male/Spayed Female $3.00 Unneutered or Unspayed $8.00 To obtain your dog license follow the same procedures listed above for tax payments. A separate check is not necessary. Your taxes and dog license fees may be included on one check. Chris Martell, Town Constable Phone 688-2445
destruction of property and are a threat to others. Please do not capture stray animals. Leave them loose and either contact me or call the Town office to take care of the issue. Capturing strays is a very dangerous practice and should be avoided. Please remember that the Town’s ordinance allows only two (2) dogs per household, and they must be licensed within six months of initial ownership. If you have any complaints or concerns, please call me at home, 688-2445, and leave a complete message. Be sure to include your name and phone number in the event that I would need more information. Tom Verstegen, Zoning Administrator Cell Phone: 379-3081 Storm Water Discharge Information In 2006, the Town of Black Wolf was required to obtain a storm water discharge permit from the DNR for our “urbanized area.” This is, for the most part, the land East of US Highway 45 So and West of US Highway 45 So near Johnson Avenue and Welle Drive. This Storm Water Discharge Permit (referred to as WPDES Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) is the result of the DNR’s enforcement of the Federal Clean Water Act. The DNR web page provides much more information on this undertaking and is located at this website: http://dnr.wi.gov/runoff/stormwater.htm There are six main requirements for this permit: (1) Public education and outreach (2) Public involvement and participation (3) Illicit discharge detection and elimination (4) Construction site pollution control (5) Post-construction site storm water management (6) Municipal Pollution Prevention This column in the newsletter will serve as an opportunity for public education. I will continue to use this space to update everyone on the status of our permit. The following article on pet waste disposal fits in with pollution elimination.
Pet Waste Pickup Pet waste left in our parks, yards or other open areas can be washed away and carried by rainwater into roadside ditches to nearby rivers, lakes and streams which causes many problems, among them: 1. Pet waste decays, using up dissolved oxygen and releasing compounds that are harmful to fish and other animals that rely on water to live. 2. Pet waste contains nutrients that can cause excessive algae growth in Lake Winnebago upsetting the natural balance. 3. Pet waste contributes to bacterial contamination of our rivers, lakes and streams. Pet waste contains harmful bacteria such as E. coli and fecal coliform. Waters that contain a high amount of bacteria such as E. coli are unfit for human contact. A single gram of pet waste contains an average of 23 million fecal coliform bacteria, some of which can cause disease in humans. Whether in your yard or walking your dog, you can easily do the right thing. Purchase a device made especially for the task or simply use a plastic bag. Then, just place the waste in a garbage can, flush down the toilet or bury it in your yard. Everyone will be happier when you pick up after your pet! Also, who wants to step in it let alone swim in it! One requirement of the Town’s WPDES Storm Water Discharge Permit is for the Town to draft an ordinance keeping waste out of the sewer system (ditches). Pet waste will probably be a part of that ordinance. So for now, please do the right and considerate thing and pick up after your pets.
TOWN BURNING POLICY Black Wolf does not have an ordinance which prevents burning, however, please respect your neighbors. Observe good safety practices, and be especially careful to burn only during calm periods of the day or early evening. Never leave any fires unattended! Sanitary District Report Office: 233-2901 Last spring the Sanitary District televised the last 10% of its sewer mains. We also televised the 21 house laterals we discovered discharging clear water last spring. The homeowners are now in the process of repairing these leaking laterals. During mainline televising, we discovered 20 more manholes that need to be raised or repaired. We are in the process of making these repairs. The Sanitary District has already had its partially-repaired system put to the test during this past summer’s heavy rains and flooding. We were very pleased with the performance of the system. We still recommend that homeowners and businesses carry sewer back-up insurance because isolated back-ups are still a possibility. The Sanitary District’s insurance policy does not cover sewer back-ups. We would like to remind homeowners and businesses of the following items: · Never access manholes. · Repair leaky faucets and fixtures. · Do not pour grease down drains. · Do not park vehicles or place other items over manholes. · Always check the location of your sewer lateral before planning an addition, garage, sidewalk, fence, etc. It is the responsibility of the homeowner or business to locate their sewer lateral. · October 15 is the payment deadline for delinquent users’ fees. Any unpaid balances after this date will be added to your 2008 property taxes.
The Van Dyne Volunteer Fire Department always has openings. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old; no previous experience is required. Although daytime help is short-handed, all applicants will be considered. We offer a retirement plan to all active members. Please call Chief Doug Seffern (688-2364) or First Assistant Chief Dave Babler (688-2226) for more information. The Van Dyne Volunteer Fire Department takes great pride in protecting the people in the community and providing fire education to adults and children. Please consider volunteering some of your time by joining us. Flood Insurance Q & A Q: Does my homeowners insurance cover flooding? A: No. Flood insurance is not typically covered by a homeowner’s insurance policy. You need to contact your insurance agent. Q: Am I
eligible for flood insurance? Q: I live
in a low-risk flood zone. Do I really need flood insurance? claims come from areas \with low-to-moderate flood risk. Q: I’m not
in a high-risk area, but I’d like flood coverage. Is this possible? Q: Who do I contact if I want to purchase a flood insurance policy? A: The NFIP has an arrangement with private insurance companies to sell and service flood insurance policies. Visit floodsmart.gov for a list of insurance companies that sell and service NFIP flood insurance policies. Source: FEMA, floodsmart.gov Note: Flood insurance covers rainwater such as water flooding into the basement from the window. A sewage backup policy covers sewage that backs up into the basement. For homeowners, a sewage backup policy costs about $50 per year for $5,000 in coverage and $220 per year for $50,000 in coverage.
But something in us looks forward to the testing that is to come Town Hall Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 12 noon – 5:00 p.m. Use the drop box located by the front door when the office is closed. Please note: Phone calls should be directed to the Town Hall, unless it’s an emergency. Messages will be taken and forwarded to the proper individual or department, thus eliminating the need to contact town officials at their homes. Thanks! Zoning Administrator, Tom Verstegen, Office Hours Mondays & Tuesdays 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Zoning permits and information may be obtained by contacting Tom at the Town Hall on Monday or Tuesday evenings (688-1404) or his cell phone (379-3081). Appointments can be made to meet with him at any time. Building Inspector, Dave Frank, Office Hours Tuesdays 6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Building permit questions may be answered by calling the Building Inspector directly at home (920) 233-1999. Assessor: Bowmar Appraisal, Inc. John Bodouski (920) 733-5369 MEETING SCHEDULES – Town Hall Special circumstances sometimes require the need to change meeting dates and/or times. Postings are updated on a regular basis. Check the website or posting boxes located at the following locations: · Town Hall · Lakeshore Mart · Lakeshore Superette · Ripple Rd across from Oshkosh Country Club Town Board Meetings 7:00 p.m. – 2nd Monday of each month. Town residents are always welcome! Planning/Zoning Committee Meetings 6:30 p.m. – 1st Tuesday of each month. ======================================================================================================= 2008 Spring Newsletter OFFICE HOURS: Town Hall Office Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday - 12:00 noon – 5:00 pm Use the drop box located by the front door when the office is closed. Please note: Phone calls should be directed to the Town Hall, unless it’s an emergency. Messages will be taken and forwarded to the proper individual or department, thus eliminating the need to contact town officials at their homes. Thanks! Zoning Administrator, Tom Verstegen - Mondays & Tuesdays 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. - Zoning permits and information may be obtained by contacting Tom at the Town Hall on Monday or Tuesday evenings (688-1404) or his cell phone (379-3081). Appointments can be made to meet with him at any time. Building Inspector, Dave Frank - Tuesdays 6:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Building permit questions may be answered by calling Dave directly at his home (920) 233-1999. Black Wolf requires the following permits: Accessory building/structures, Building addition permit, Fence permit, Fill Permit, Mechanical permit, New Construction Permit, Road access (culvert) permit, Sign Permit, Special project permit (window, door, foundation repairs, siding, decks), Zoning Permit. MEETING SCHEDULES – Town Hall Special circumstances sometimes require the need to change meeting dates and/or times. Postings are updated on a regular basis. Check the website or posting boxes located at the following locations: Town Hall, Lakeshore Mart, Lakeshore Superette, and on Ripple Road across from Oshkosh Country Club Town Board Meetings - 7:00 p.m. – 2nd Monday of each month. Town residents are welcome! Planning/Zoning Committee Meetings 6:30 p.m. – 1st Tuesday of each month. Members of this committee are: Jim Chitwood, Sandra Golliher, Tracy Kollock, Joe Sagen, and Eric Youngbauer. Plan Commission The initial meeting was held February 26, 2008, and a Public Hearing on March 24th. Watch for future meeting dates. This Commission will be working with Martinson & Eisele to finalize the Town’s Comprehensive Plan in 2008. Members are: Brad Disch (Chairman), Jim Chitwood, Sandra Golliher, Bob Kossel and Leon Luker.
ANNUAL MEETING The Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2008, at 7:00 p.m. This meeting is open to the public and town residents are and encouraged to attend. This is a time for residents to present and discuss concerns, and/or issues they would like town officers to consider. Comments are welcome! Town Board - Comments Frank Frassetto, Town Board Chairman Comprehensive Plan The Town of Black Wolf along with the Town of Friendship has retained the services of Martenson & Eisele, Inc. to assist in guiding our towns through the comprehensive planning process as we work to get our long range planning in line with the Smart Growth Initiatives for the State of Wisconsin. We joined with Friendship because our two towns are very similar and we were able to reduce the overall cost of this project. An informational/kick-off meeting has already been held and a second one is scheduled for March 24th. Blue post cards have been sent to all residents to alert you to this process. If you have not received one or thought it was “junk mail” contact Ellen or Mona in the town office to get the details. A formal planning committee was formed to help the town in the process. We expect the process of updating our comprehensive plan to take approximately 12 months. As an off shoot to our comp plan, the town is continuing to engage the City of Oshkosh in developing a boundary agreement that would established clearly defined city growth area, a specific town area and establish a third area called rural preservation so that our municipalities can move forward without the potential of disagreements arising the would unduly jeopardize developments in various segments of the town. At a recent meeting between the city and the town, a tentative outline was reached that could help in moving this process forward. In essence, there would be a city growth area encompassing those properties that are west of the railroad tracks south to Nekimi Ave. The lands west of Country Club Road to the county line would be designated Rural Preservation areas. And, finally anything east of the tracks from the city to Nekimi Ave., and east of Country Club south of Nekimi Ave. to the county line would be designated Town Growth Areas. Of course there are many other details that have to be addressed but before that occurs, the town board believes that this step should be discussed at the Annual Meeting on April 8th. Hopefully you all will attend to share your thoughts on this particular item as well as the other issues that will be a part of a broader boundary agreement. Quiet Zone – Ruekert-Mielke has recently signed on by the town board to assist with establishment of a railroad quiet zone in the town. This firm has successfully assisted other municipalities in this regard. There is a significant amount of ground- work that must be done to meet Federal Railroad Administration requirements before determining the amount of work and resources the town needs to put toward this project. You can expect an update on their progress in approximately two months. General – After a long and snowy winter, I want to wish everyone a pleasant spring and summer. And, don’t forget, if you have skills or a desire to help the town be a better place, don’t hesitate to let me or Ellen know what you would like to do to help Tom Herzing, Town Board Supervisor I Cell Phone: 379-4433 It is not uncommon for property owners to plant, mow, or otherwise landscape part of “their” property, which are, in fact, part of the Town of Black Wolf RIGHT-OF-WAY. The Town Board, on advice of legal counsel, reminds property owners of the following: The Town has the legal right to control the road right-of-way. Any improvements, plantings, etc. within the right-of-way are done at the risk of the property owner. The Town is not responsible for damage(s) resulting from such activities. Other decorative landscaping items are not permitted in the right-of-way. They present problems for snowplow drivers. Bob Keller, Town Board Supervisor II Cell Phone 379-0717 The winter of 2008 has recorded the most snow for this area in modern history. It did put a strain on our 3 part-time drivers and 2 snowplow trucks. Even before the season started, the town had ordered one replacement truck. This truck was put into service on Jan. 11th. It has served us well, even though it did already require some upgrading. At one point we used it to back-up the much larger truck which needed servicing. We still have the truck that has been replaced and disposition of this truck will be discussed at the April Annual Meeting. The 3 drivers should receive commendation for the dedication and responsibility they have shown. We wish to increase the crew to 4 for the next season in an attempt to lighten the load. Any experienced individual with interest in the position should apply at the Town Hall. It is possible to get a repeat of this year and we want to be ready. As the season progressed, we received calls about special situations that needed attention. We welcome such calls, as the drivers were available and willing to address most situations. Our snow plowing policy has been included in fall newsletters in the past. Part of that policy includes a reminder not to push snow across the road. This year, I wish to emphasize WI Stat. 346.96(5), which prohibits placing injurious substances on the roadway. This includes pushing snow from your driveway across the road into the ditch. This can cause damage to the snow plow equipment, reduction of road width, obstruction of safe views of the road as well as reduced drainage. We received numerous complaints of this being done. When necessary, the Town may request the Sheriff’s Dept. to issue citations. As a quick update on the 2 bridge projects (Lone Elm and Koelpin Road), we have received environmental approval and design approval from the state. Final design will be completed this summer and a bid letting will take place in Dec. 2008. We expect construction to begin in spring 2009, with completion in that summer. The annual April inspection of the road will facilitate summer maintenance and any necessary upgrade plan for the Town of Black Wolf road system. John McDermott, Town Treasurer Phone 688-1404 Lottery Credit: Make sure you check your tax bills each year to make sure you have received a lottery credit. If you are a new resident to the Town of Black Wolf, you will need to apply for the lottery credit. The form is available in the Town office, or at the Wisconsin Department of Revenue website (Form LC300 (R.10-04). For additional information about the lottery credit, call the Town office 688-1404 or the WI Department of Revenue (608) 266-9457 or (608) 266-0772. Escrow Payments: Depending on your mortgage company, there are usually several options when it comes to paying your property tax escrow check. The two most common methods are: 1. The mortgage company sends you the check payable to you and to the Town. By using this method you will usually receive the check faster, and puts the timing of your payment in your control. You are also sure that the check has been sent to us. 2. The mortgage company sends the check directly to the Town. This method is more direct, but experience has shown that many taxpayers go through major frustrations due to incorrect mailing address, etc. Whichever method you select, it is recommended that you contact your mortgage company to make sure they have our correct mailing address and other necessary information. Reminders about tax collection: · Business-size, self addressed stamped envelopes should be enclosed with your tax payments and/or dog license payment. PLEASE provide a stamped-self addressed envelope if you want a receipt mailed back to you. · One check may be written for all payments (including dog licenses) · If you have concerns about your assessment, call Bowmar Appraisal (920)733-5369 or attend the Open Book and/or Board of Review. Watch for these dates to be scheduled. ELECTION NEWS Voters have the choice of using either the paper ballot machine or the touch screen machine (with paper tape back-up). Voting hours: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. Voters must be registered. Register during regular business hours or on the day of the election. To avoid long registration lines on Election Day, please register prior to the election. The following two items are required to register to vote: 1) Elections Board “Voter Registration” Form EB131 (available from Town Hall office or under “Forms” on our website; and 2) Drivers License OR the last four (4) digits of your Social Security No. (Only if you don’t have a driver’s license). The Primary Election was held on February 19, 2008. Turnout was excellent with 810 residents voting, or more than 45% of registered voters.
Upcoming Elections:
September 9, 2008 Fall Partisan Primary November 4, 2008 General (Presidential) OPEN BOOK / BOARD OF REVIEW
Bowmar Appraisal is expecting to conduct their annual “Open Book” during late June, 2008. This is the time to review the Assessment Roll for 2008 and for Town residents to ask questions or express concerns about their assessment. Watch for notice of the exact date. If you object to your assessment after meeting with Bowmar Appraisals, you may meet with the Board of Review (usually held a few weeks after the Open Book --watch for notice of date). You will need to file the Objection Form at least 48 hours prior to the Board of Review, unless the Board of Review chooses to waive this requirement. Call the office with any questions about the Open Book and/or Board of Review. Tom Verstegen, Zoning Administrator Cell Phone: 379-3081 The Town of Black Wolf has been mandated by the Department of Natural Resources to work toward reducing pollutants into Lake Winnebago from our stormwater sewer system. Open ditches make up the entirety of the Town’s stormwater sewer system. The Town was required to obtain an MS4 (Municipal Separate Stormwater Sewer System) General Discharge Permit from the DNR. The permit lists steps that are being required by the DNR to reduce pollutants from our MS4. One of the required steps is public education. Although most of it is common sense, it still needs to be reiterated: Properly dispose of automobile fluids such as waste oil and anti-freeze Pick up and dispose of pet waste Try to mulch or burn leaves away from a ditch Properly manage household hazardous chemicals Water quality tests will be performed annually to see how we’re doing in limiting pollution in our “storm sewers.” Chris Martell, Town Constable Phone 688-2445 Please make sure your animals are properly contained in appropriate building structures, pens, and pastures. Loose animals cause traffic problems, destruction of property and are a threat to others. The Town’s ordinance allows only two dogs per household, and they must be licensed within six months of initial ownership. If you have any complaints or concerns, please call me at home, 688-2445, and leave a complete message. Be sure to include your name and phone number in the event that I would need more information. Sanitary District Report Office: 233-2901 This spring the Black Wolf Sanitary District plans to televise the remaining 10% of its sewer mains. This will complete the sewer main televising portion of the district’s five-year clear water abatement program. This spring we will also be televising the 27 house laterals (the sewer line connecting a residence to the sewer main) that we found discharging clear water during last spring’s main line televising. After televising 90% of our sewer mains, we have found over 250 gallons per minute of leaks (mostly through house laterals) and corrected more than 222 gallon per minute of these discovered leaks. We have already seen our Oshkosh treatment fees decrease as a result of our efforts. Your cooperation in identifying and repairing these leaks, and diligence in making sure that your sump pumps are not connected to the sanitary sewer, have enabled the Sanitary District to keep user fees at the same rate for the past 17 years. We are proud to report that our user fees are significantly lower than any other district that we are aware of, and in some cases, half of what other districts charge. This spring promises a heavy snowmelt and should be a good test for the newly repaired portions of our system. We would like to thank residents and businesses for their continued patience and cooperation over the final 18 months of our clear water abatement program. TOWN BURNING POLICY Black Wolf does not have an ordinance which prevents burning, however, please respect your neighbors. Observe good safety practices, and be especially careful to burn only during calm periods of the day or early evening. Do not leave any fires unattended! CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR RECYCLING EFFORTS Based on the number of tons of recycled materials, Black Wolf placed third again out of the 15 towns in Winnebago County for 2007. 1st place – Town of Neenah - 249 tons 2nd Place – Town of Clayton - 232 tons 3rd Place – Town of Black Wolf - 207 tons 2008 Garbage & Recycling Calendars We still have a supply of magnetic calendars showing the days Veolia Waste Management Services picks up paper and co-mingled recyclables in addition to regular garbage pickup. Stop in the Town Hall Office and pick one up. Call 800 688-4285 to contact Veolia directly. Van Dyne Fire Department Is Looking for More Volunteer Firefighters The Van Dyne Volunteer Fire Department has 13 openings. Firefighting, fire protection and fire prevention are essential in today’s community which requires time and dedication. These can only be accomplished by having a full roster of firefighters. We face the problem of the availability of manpower at all times, but especially during the daytime hours. With only a few people available to make that initial response, we need to recruit more people. So, you ask what is all involved to become a member? Fill out an application and meet with the Chief and Training officer who will inform you of what is expected. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, and previous experience is not required. Although our daytime help is short-handed, we will consider all applicants regardless of your schedule. We offer a retirement plan to all active members. Please call Chief Doug Seffern (688-2364) or First Assistant Chief Dave Babler (688-2226) for more information. The Van Dyne Volunteer Fire Department takes great pride in protecting the people in the community and providing fire education to adults and children. Please consider volunteering some of your time by joining us. APRIL...These are the days of Spring supreme, when the sun pours down and gardeners’ scheme. And people released from Winter’s break, step out in the sun with hoe and rake. Their spirits soar, they heave a sigh, and see great things in their mind’s eye. For never in this world has there been such grass as in our dreams is seen, And never flowers, even rare, can with those in the mind compare. April blossoms with such ease, the world becomes a gardener’s tease. Comes May, and weeds, and bugs, and tools...and then we know how April fools!
The last snowfall of the winter occurs in April...several times. ______________________________________________________________ NEWSLETTER Fall 2007 Newsletters are published twice a year, in April and October. PLEASE Keep the latest publication for reference. TOWN HALL - Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 12:00 noon - 5:00 p.m. Use the drop box located at the front of the building for when the office is closed. Zoning Administrator Office Hours: Mondays & Tuesdays: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Building Inspector Office Hours: Tuesdays 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. PLEASE NOTE: All phone calls should be directed to the Town Hall (unless it’s an emergency). Messages will be taken and forwarded to the proper individual or department, thus eliminating the need to contact Town Officials at their homes. Thanks! Town Board Meetings: 2nd Monday of each month, 7:00 p.m.* Planning/Zoning Committee Meetings: 1st Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m.* * Special circumstances sometimes change meeting dates or times. Please check the posting boxes located at the Town Hall and at 3 other locations: Lakeshore Mart, Lakeside Superette, and on Ripple Rd. across from Oshkosh Country Club. Posting are updated on a regular basis. WEB SITE: Our web site, townofblackwolf.com is updated on a regular basis. This site contains general information, current news, calendars, newsletters, Town Board and Planning & Zoning agendas, Board minutes, zoning ordinances, meeting dates, forms, photographs, and many other items. v 2008 RECYCLING CALENDAR MAGNET The Town will once again provide calendar refrigerator magnets. The 2008 garbage and recycling schedule is highlighted. Stop in and pick up your magnet during normal business hours. We also have Garbage Collection Guides and Winnebago County Recycling Guide brochures in the office. The 2008 garbage and recycling calendar is included in this newsletter, in the office, and also on the Website (Garbage/Recycling page). v “RECYCLE” STICKERS We are offering “Recycle” stickers for residents who prefer using recycling containers instead of plastic recycling bags. The stickers can be picked up at the Town Hall and should be affixed to your recycle containers/bins. This will help our haulers identify the recyclable containers from regular garbage containers. Thanks for your efforts in making the Town’s recycling program very successful! _________________________________________________________________________________________ ELECTION NEWS: Voters now have the choice of using either the Accu-Vote machine (paper ballot) or the Diebold TSX machine (touch screen with a paper tape back-up). Everyone is encouraged to vote and try out the new machine. The Spring Election was held on April 3rd, 2007. 410 residents turned out to vote. Upcoming 2008 Election Dates: February 19th, 2008 Spring Primary Election – 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. April 1st, 2008 Spring General Election – 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. September 9th, 2008 Fall Primary Election – 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. November 4th, 2008 Presidential Election – 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Voter Registration is required. If you are not registered, Voter Registration forms may be filled out on the day of an election or at any time during regular business hours at the Town Hall. Please bring identification. You will be asked to provide your drivers license number, or the last 4 digits of your social security number only if you don’t have a driver’s license. The Statewide Voter Registration System (SVRS) requires new voters to register using the State Elections Board’s Form EB131. The forms are available at the Town Hall office and under “Forms” on the Website. Absentee Voters must be registered in the Town and need to fill out the Application for Absentee form before a ballot can be mailed or handed out. This form is available at the office or from the website, “Forms”. ANNUAL BUDGET MEETING DATE: The Budget Hearing for 2008 will be held on Monday, November 12th, 2007 at 6:30 p.m. Copies of the proposed budget will be available at the Town Hall prior to the hearing. The regular monthly Town Board meeting will follow at 7:00 p.m. ANNUAL MEETING DATE: The Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 8th, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. This is the time for residents to present and discuss issues they would like the town officers to consider. The meeting is open to the public and town residents are invited and encouraged to attend. Comments are welcomed! CHANGE IN TOWN TREASURER POSITION: Please join us in a warm welcome for John McDermott who was recently appointed as Treasurer for the Town. John will be replacing the current Treasurer, Scott Altmann, who is leaving to pursue other opportunities in Northern Wisconsin. John will be working closely with Scott, learning about the Treasurer position to ensure a smooth transition. A special “Thank You” to Scott Altmann for his many years of service and commitment to the Town. We wish him the best as he starts this new chapter of his life. Thanks again Scott, you will be missed! FROM THE CHAIRMAN, Frank Frassetto: Comprehensive Planning – The state of Wisconsin’s “Smart Growth Initiative” requires that municipalities have in place a comprehensive plan by January 1, 2010 and accordingly we are looking to hire a professional engineering firm to help guide us through this process. It is anticipated that this effort will take approximately 8 – 12 months and be completed in 2008. In order to defray some of the costs associated with this project, the Town of Friendship has agreed to be a joint participant due to the fact that both our towns are similar. This will require working closely with Friendship (as we have done in the past through the Van Dyne Fire Department) and we look forward to this partnership. As of this writing, two firms have shown an interest in lending their services – Omni Associates and Martenson and Eisele. Either of them is very capable and would surely do a fine job for our town. Please stay tuned to the posting boards around town and log on to our website to keep abreast of the progress and to find out when public hearings are announced. Boundary Agreement - The City of Oshkosh and the Town continue to engage in discussions on a potential boundary agreement. We’re trying to set up a face to face meeting where we can establish more concrete parameters within which to frame a broad agreement. At our last Annual Meeting, the town electors passed a resolution that identified Fisk Ave. as the southernmost border and bordered on the east by the CNN railroad for a city growth area and that this agreement would be for 20 years. This is not what the city has been indicating as a preference for them to sign off on; obviously we’ve got some issues that could be contentious. Nonetheless, the board will continue to promote the values and lifestyle that Black Wolf residents have come to know and appreciate. FROM SUPERVISOR I, Tom Herzing: Change in Zoning Requirements - On October 2nd, the Black Wolf Planning and Zoning Committee held a public hearing on a proposal to bring the Town's setback requirements along the lake shore into conformity with those of Winnebago County. The Town Board approved the change, based on the recommendation of Planning & Zoning and the fact that no Town resident spoke against the change. The old setback was 50 feet from the street right of way and 10 feet from side property lines. Under the new regulations, properties East of Highway 45 have minimum setbacks of 30 feet from the road right of way and 10 feet and 7 feet from the side property lines. is beginning discussions toward a possible boundary agreement. Up to this point, the Town has consulted widely with its Long Range Planning and Planning and Zoning committees and has studied agreements that have been signed with Oshkosh by the towns of Algoma and Nekimi. The Town Board has also sought input from its citizens, most recently at the annual town meeting. The people of Black Wolf have given strong indications that they want to see the rural character of the community preserved and that they want to see reasonable limits set for City growth to the South. Discussions will most likely last well into next year, and the Town will keep in contact with its residents regarding progress. Town Cleanup: The Town is considering holding a Town cleanup sometime in 2008. Please let us know if this is something you would be interested in. FROM SUPERVISOR II, Bob Keller: Roadwork: This summer the town of Black Wolf saw resurfacing of US Highway 45 (WDOT Project) and West Decorah Avenue (TBW Project). Numerous town roads received seal coat surfacing. County Road “R” was also seal coated (Winnebago County Project). Bridgework: The Town of Black Wolf has two bridge replacement projects that have been approved for State/County/Town funding. The Bridges are on Koelpin Road and Lone Elm (County Line Road). They are currently scheduled for Spring/Summer 2008 bid letting and construction. At present, the WDOT is considering the delay of road and bridge projects due to over scheduling and funding issues. Therefore, one or both of these projects may be delayed. The Town of Black Wolf has requested maintenance of the existing schedule. Truck Purchase: We have found the need for replacement of our smaller snow plow/maintenance truck. The process to purchase the truck was approved in late September. We expect to have the new truck in late December for the 2007/2008 winter plowing season. This spring we televised an additional 30% of the sanitary districts sewer mains. This brought the total mainline televised to 90%. We also televised 25 house laterals and discovered discharging clear water this spring. The homeowners are now in the process of repairing these laterals. During mainline televising we discovered 51 more manholes that need to be raised or repaired. This work is now complete. We have already seen a substantial drop in sewage flow as a result of this work. If you have questions about lawn restoration around a repaired manhole in your yard or know of a manhole in a road that needs more gravel, please do not hesitate to call our office at 233-2901. We would like to remind residents and businesses that it is illegal to discharge sump pumps into the sanitary sewer. Please check your sump pump to make sure that it is not connected to the sewer. Once again we would like to thank residents for their continued patience and cooperation. Chuck Linde, Sanitary District __________________________________________________________________________________________ This Snow Plow policy is being re-printed as it is important everyone understands how snow plowing is handled during the winter months. Supervisor Bob Keller is in charge of the roads in the town. Contact the office to leave a message for Bob if you have a concern.
________________________________________________________________________________ FROM THE TREASURER, John McDermott: Town of Black Wolf Tax Collections Updates & Reminders Methods of Payment: Ø By Mail * 380 E. Black Wolf Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54902 Ø Town Hall Drop Box* drop slot is located next to the front door of the Town Hall (on the left) Ø In Person Wednesday, December 19th, 2007 5:00 – 7:00 pm and Wednesday, January 23rd, 2008 5:00 – 7:00 pm * Payments made by mail or dropped in the drop box must be postmarked by 12/31/2007 (for December payments) or 1/31/2008 (for January payments). Payment Tips: DO NOT bring in or send CASH. Cash Payments will not be accepted. DO NOT send or drop off your entire bill with payment – use the appropriate stub from the bottom of your bill. DO NOT send your second payment (if electing installment) to the Town Hall. This must be sent to Winnebago County by July 31st, 2008. DO INCLUDE a self addressed stamped envelope if you are paying by mail or using the drop box. CHECKS should be made out to “TOWN OF BLACK WOLF”. Statutory Due Dates: Pay in Full by January 31st, 2008 or Elect Installments – 1st pmt due Jan 31, 2008 (to the Town) 2nd pmt due Jul 31, 2008 (to Winnebago County) Dealing With Your Mortgage Company (FAQ’s): 1. Will my mortgage company send my escrow check to me or directly to the Town? It seems most mortgage Companies send checks to the property owner payable to the property owner and the Town. There are some, however, that do send payment directly to the Town. Check with your mortgage company if you are not sure. 2. Will the town endorse my mortgage check over to me and allow me to write a personal check for the exact amount of my taxes? NO - It is the Town policy NOT to endorse mortgage company checks over to the property owner because of collection issues with NSF checks. 3. If my escrow check is for more than my taxes, how and when will I get my refund? Town policy is to get refund checks mailed out as quickly as possible. You should normally receive your check within 2-3 weeks of when taxes were paid. 4. IF I haven’t received my escrow check from my mortgage company and the due date is approaching. Who should I call? Call your mortgage company first. If they indicate that your payment was made directly to the Town, then call the Town Treasurer for verification. Lottery Credit Information: You are only entitled to one Lottery Credit – on your principal residence as of Jan 1st of the tax year. (If you have multiple parcels, please check to make sure you are receiving only ONE Lottery Credit) If you DO NOT see a Lottery Credit on your bill and think you should have one, please call. The Town may be able to issue a late Lottery Credit.
DOGS: Neutered/Spayed $3.00 Unneutered/Unspayed $8.00 Limit of 2 dogs - per Town Ordinance Proof of VAC – only for new or expired VAC OK to include Dog license payments with your taxes. Dog License Information: The Town of Black Wolf will only issue 2 dog licenses per residence as specified in the Town Ordinances regarding dog licensing. Dog Vaccinations: There still seems to be some confusion as to when you need to send in your rabies vaccination information. I will attempt to provide some clarification. You DO NOT need to send along your vaccination information if: 1) You licensed your dog with the town in the prior year AND 2) Your dog’s rabies vaccination has not expired since the last licensing You DO need to send along your vaccination information if: 1) Your dog was not previously licensed in the town OR 2) Your dog’s rabies vaccination expired since the last licensing. Please check your vaccination dates before sending in for a license. You need to supply proof of spaying or neutering if this was done since the last licensing. IF IN DOUBT, PLEASE SEND ALONG A COPY OF YOUR VACCINATION INFORMATION Address changes should be communicated to the Town Treasurer in writing. Please send these change requests to the Town Hall. The town will then submit these changes to the County. DO NOT CONTACT THE COUNTY DIRECTLY ON ADDRESS CHANGES. Name Changes must be made through the Register of Deeds at the County level. The town does not have the capability of changing your name as it appears on your tax bill. If you have questions regarding this procedure, please contact the County. Payments made after January 31: There are still a number of taxpayers making their 2nd installment payments to the town. These 2nd installment payments must be paid directly to the County. Any payments received by the town will be returned. _________________________________________________________________________________ ANIMAL CONTROL: Chris Martell, Constable (Home Phone: 688-2445) The Town Dog Ordinance states that dogs must be under control at all times. This doesn’t mean that the dog needs to be on a leash, but if that’s what is needed to keep a dog under control, then do so. With that in mind, if your dog does get away, call me at home (688-2445) so that I can make a note of it and call you back if I get a call or find your dog. If you find a dog running loose, DO NOT CAPTURE OR HOLD THE DOG!!!. Don’t let it in your garage, put it in your kennel, tie it up or let a stray in your house! There have been many instances that a seemingly friendly dog turns on and harms the person(s) that has captured them. All stray or strange dogs should be treated with caution and not approached. Also, try not to leave food out for animals. If you feed them, they will return. This applies to dogs and cats. There are no ordinances regarding cats in the Town. If you have strays in your area and you want them captured, again, call me at home and I will do what I can to capture them. If you trap a cat on your own (without the knowledge of the Town) you will be responsible for the disposition of the animal. FROM ZONING ADMINISTRATOR, Tom Verstegen
Test your soil before
applying fertilizers containing phosphorus. phosphorus-free fertilizers if you fertilize. Look for 0 as the middle number-all fertilizers show three numbers on the label (10-0-5, for example). The middle number represents the amount of phosphorus. So, buy zero. Keep leaves and grass
clippings out of the town ditches, compost, and practice other water-friendly
lawn care. They can also be tilled right into your garden. Or you could use a mulching mower to chop the leaves into little bits for your turf. If you do rake, make sure that the leaves stay out of the ditch. Keep water on site and
soil in place (so it stays out of our waters). rather than hard surfaces (such as driveways and sidewalks that will deliver stormwater to ditches and eventually our water resources). Be sure to mulch or plant any bare soil so that rain and snow don't erode it away. Reduce motorized vehicle use; maintain vehicles in an environmentally friendly way (don't dump oil in storm drains or on the street, for
example). Never let any oil make its way to the storm ditch. Make sure your car doesn't leak antifreeze, brake fluid or windshield wiper fluid. These leaks and drips could be washed into the storm ditch from the street or your driveway with the next rainstorm. Make sure you sweep your driveway instead of using the hose to wash debris away. Wash your car on your lawn instead of your driveway. Or go to a carwash. Learn more about local waters and
join a local watershed or conservation group. Watershed Associations, Friends Groups and Other Natural Resource Groups to locate an active group in your area. There are many groups in Wisconsin all working to preserve and enhance the natural resources here. Check out their web sites or get in touch with their contact person to find out how you can get involved. If you don't find one where you live, consider starting one! Original article taken and modified from http://www.danewaters.com/private/tips.aspx To access other links included in article, access this website. _____________________________________________________________________________________ Things you can do to help keep your lakes and streams clean: (Reprinted and Revised from www.websterlakeassociation.com) If you want to help birds and make sure they have a good fish supply (fish, crustaceans, etc.) from the Lake Winnebago (lake) environment, spread the word about alternatives to pesticides and fertilizers (excessive algae growth caused by fertilizers disrupts the natural balance in the lake, causing dangerously low oxygen levels to occur in the nighttime hours). Start picking up trash around the lake if you notice a lot of trash coming from the storm drain system. Rain washes a mix of pollutants off of our streets, parking lots, and neighborhood yards. Pollutants such as soil, pet waste, motor oil, antifreeze, grass clippings, pesticides, and fertilizers wash into storm drains or ditches and eventually into the rivers and lakes without being treated at all. This is in contrast to the wastewater system that takes waste from the drains inside your house and goes through a septic treatment system and/or treatment plant before it enters the lake. This treated water is in many cases of higher quality than the water that is in the river already (untreated runoff carrying pollutants from neighborhoods, farms, etc.) This polluted runoff kills wildlife and contaminates our waterways. Easy ways to reduce pollution: Keep all litter out of storm drains, and bring a trash bag with you on walks near streams and lakes to pick up trash (don’t forget your gloves!). Pick up pet waste. Wrap it tightly in a bag, and throw it in the garbage. Or flush it down the toilet. Recycle used motor oil and antifreeze. Learn about organic gardening, instead of resorting to pesticides and chemical fertilizers Compost your grass clippings. Take unwanted household chemicals, oil paints, and solvents to a hazardous household waste collection center. We as humans often restrict consumption of fish that contain harmful pesticides and chemicals, but water birds don’t have a choice, since their full diet consists of fish and other creatures in our lakes and streams. We also have the luxury of drinking treated water from our treatment plants, whereas birds and other wildlife must drink from the streams and lakes we have contaminated. The more the public learns about these issues, the faster we can do something about it and put an end to the needless suffering experienced by wildlife, while keeping the waters looking amazing! Source: Meadow Lake- http://www.birdcrosstitch.com/environment/MeadowLake.html For additional information on storm water pollution and the effect on Winnebago County lakes, rivers and streams, see:
ZONING PERMITS: Zoning Permits are issued by Zoning Administrator, Tom Verstegen. Call the Town Hall Office 688-1404 for zoning information or to set up an appointment with Tom. He is in the Town Hall Office on Monday & Tuesday evenings, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. ______________________________________________________________________________________________
1-800-621-CASH (you may remain anonymous). You could receive up to $1000 cash for your information, if it leads to the solving of a crime. Also, a crime prevention flyer, “The Crime Reporter” is available at the Town Hall. The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department prepares these flyers every other month with updated information. The Sheriff’s office is collecting cell phones to help crime victims. These can be donated at the Oshkosh Seniors Center, 200 N. Campbell Road, Oshkosh. Call Deputy Steve Herman at 236-7309 for more information. Consumer Alert Affects Medicare Beneficiaries: as Medicare officials. In this scenario, the caller asks for bank account information stating Medicare needs this information in order to deposit money directly into the beneficiary's account. In some cases, the caller threatens the person by saying if the Medicare beneficiary doesn't disclose accurate bank account information; the person will risk losing his or her Medicare benefits. If you receive such a call, please report it to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection by contacting the Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-422-7128. Consumer Alert: Don't Dial 9 0 # on your Telephone Scam Originates from local jails and prisons.
as AT&T or Verizon Service Technicians. The technician says he is conducting a test on telephone lines and in order for him to complete this test, the person on the other end of the line must touch 9 zero # and then hang-up. Don't fall for this trick. If you push 9 zero #, you are giving the caller full access to your telephone line. Then the caller can place a long distance call and bill those calls to your home telephone number. Deputy Steven L. Herman, President Wisconsin Crime
Prevention Practitioners Association
Dave is available at the Town Hall Office on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 to 7:00 pm. You may also call Dave directly at his home (920) 233-1999 for building permit questions or problems. PERMITS REQUIRED:
. Veolia (formerly Onyx) is responsible for weekly collection of your recyclables and garbage. Along with regular garbage, either Paper (newsprint, magazines, cardboard, etc.) or Co-mingled (tin, aluminum, glass, etc.) recyclables is collected every week. Please refer to the recycling calendar for the regular collection and holiday pickup dates. Contact Veolia directly at 800 688-4285 with any questions or problems. Winnebago County is now looking into single stream recycling for the near future. We will keep you informed
Winnebago County now offers a Recycling option every day! Businesses are required by law to recycle computers. For households, it’s a choice. Choose to recycle and prevent hazardous materials like lead, mercury and other heavy metals from your electronics from entering your landfill. Fees will be charged. Here are a few examples: $10 for a TV or monitor, $5 for a laptop, CPU, Printer or VCR, $0 for keyboards, mice, speakers, cords, cell phones. The Winnebago County Transfer Station is located at 105 W Cty Rd Y, Oshkosh. Call: (920)232-1800. ____________________________________________________________________________________ Phone: (920) 688-1404 ♦ Fax: (920) 688-1405 ♦ E-mail: tbw@northnet.net Website: townofblackwolf.com Town Chairman: Frank Frassetto Supervisor I: Tom Herzing Supervisor II: Bob Keller Clerk: Ellen Chmielewski Treasurer: John McDermott Constable: Chris Martell Deputy Clerk/Office Assistant: Sandy Reukauf Zoning Administrator: Tom Verstegen *Town Assessor: Bowmar Appraisal, Inc., John Bodouski, (920) 733-5369 *Building Inspector: Dave Frank (920) 233-1999 *Contact the Assessor and Building Inspector directly. __________________________________________________________ NEWSLETTER Spring 2007 Newsletters are published twice a year, in April and October. PLEASE keep the latest publication for reference. Current and past Newsletters are on our website: townofblackwolf.com TOWN HALL - Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 12:00 noon - 5:00 p.m. Use the drop box located at the front of the building for when the office is closed. Zoning Administrator Office Hours: Mondays & Tuesdays: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Building Inspector Office Hours: Tuesdays 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. PLEASE NOTE: All phone calls should be directed to the Town Hall (unless it’s an emergency). Messages will be taken and forwarded to the proper individual or department, thus eliminating the need to contact Town Officials at their homes. Thanks! Town Board Meetings: 2nd Monday of each month, 7:00 p.m.* Planning/Zoning Committee Meetings: 1st Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m.* * Special circumstances sometimes change meeting dates or times. Please check the posting boxes located at the Town Hall and at 3 other locations: Lakeshore Mart, Lakeside Superette, and on Ripple Rd. across from Oshkosh Country Club. Posting are updated on a regular basis. WEB SITE: Our web site, townofblackwolf.com is updated on a regular basis. This site contains general information, current news, calendars, newsletters, Town Board and Planning & Zoning agendas, zoning ordinances, meeting dates, forms, photographs, and many other items. ELECTION NEWS: Voters now have the choice of using either the Accu-Vote machine (paper ballot) or the Diebold TSX machine (touch screen with a paper tape back-up). Everyone is encouraged to vote and try out the new machine. The Fall General Election was held on November 7, 2006. Turn out was very good with 1287 residents voting, which is more than 68 % of eligible voters. Spring Elections: February 20, 2007 Spring Primary Election: 149 Residents Voted April 3, 2007 Spring General Election : 410 Residents Voted Voter Registration is required. If you are not registered, Voter Registration forms may be filled out on the day of an election or at any time during regular business hours at the Town Hall. Please bring identification. You will be asked to provide your drivers license number or the last 4 digits of your social security number if you don’t have a driver’s license. We are now using the new Statewide Voter Registration system which requires new voters to register using the State Elections Board’s Form EB131. The forms are available at the Town Hall office and under “Forms” on the Website. Absentee Voters must be registered in the Town and need to fill out the Application for Absentee form before a ballot can be mailed or handed out. This form is available at the office and under “Forms” on the web. ANNUAL MEETING DATE: The Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 17, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. (changed from April 10th). The meeting is open to the public and town residents are invited and encouraged to attend. This is a time for residents to present and discuss concerns and/or issues they would like the town officers to consider. We welcome your comments! FROM CHAIRMAN, Frank Frassetto: So far this year, the Town Board and other town committees have been seeing plenty of activity in a number of areas such as long range comprehensive planning, discussion of a boundary agreement with the City of Oshkosh and the establishment of a railroad quiet zone in the town. The goal is to have all the work completed on these efforts by years end so that we can all enjoy the fruits of our labors well into the future. To be sure, getting it right will be a huge challenge but if we keep our eye on providing a foundation for slow, steady growth and maintaining the character and integrity of our rural community, then we should be satisfied with our work so that the Town of Black Wolf will remain a place we proudly call home. A status report of the above three issues are as follows: The framework for the update to our long-range comprehensive plan has already been outlined. We were initially working with the City of bring both the long-term plan and a potential boundary agreement together and collectively work toward a solution. This has proven difficult and much time has elapsed so we’re now looking at dealing with them separately. Mapping for the comprehensive plan still needs to be done as well. Aside from adding provisions that comply with Wisconsin’s Smart Growth Initiatives, there isn’t a great deal of difference from our current plan under which we’re operating. In the coming months we’ll be holding public hearings so watch the posting boards around town. As for a boundary agreement with the City of Oshkosh, this too was delayed mainly by the fact that the City chose to work with the Town of Nekimi on an agreement first as there were development issues along the Hwy 41 and State Hwy. 26 corridor. The City is now seeking to engage in discussions with the town to address development, city growth areas, town growth areas and the like. After a series of letters went back and forth between our two communities, establishing mutual points of interest and clarifying concerns, we find ourselves faced with a decision about whether to go forward or to leave it alone. Either way, there are problems with both. Look to the Annual Meeting on April 17th for more discussion and decision making. Now that the gates have been placed at the Nekimi/Country Club railroad crossing, establishing a quiet zone comes next. Two items are important here. First, the application to the Federal Railroad Administration needs to be completed. It’s a fairly complex process but we do have the support of the Commissioner of Railroad’s office, which is nice. The exact timeline for processing is not known. It is also possible that further work may need to be done at our existing crossings to qualify for quiet zone status. Further updates on our progress will be provided. The second issue is that of trains stop-ping and blocking our intersections. We’ll be working the Commissioner’s office and with the Town of Friendship and other municipalities as appropriate to find an answer to this situation. Keep in mind this problem is far broader than just our town; it’s an issue that stretches from Green Bay to Chicago. Again, town residents will be provided status reports when there is something noteworthy to share. FROM SUPERVISOR I, Tom Herzing On the recommendation of the Planning & Zoning Committee, the Town Board has adopted the following regulation to address concerns about the increasing numbers of cell towers being requested for construction in Black Wolf: Section 3.27(6)(f)(1) “Towers shall be set back a minimum distance of 1000’ from any residential dwelling unit, unless all residents within 1000’ agree to it being built closer to them.” FROM SUPERVISOR II, Bob Keller: Winter Summary: The Town of Black Wolf owns and operates two (2) snowplow trucks. We employ two (2) part time drivers and one (1) back up driver. The equipment and drivers were heavily stressed during the heavy snowfall we experienced within two consecutive weekends. Some of the roads did not get plowed as clear as we all want them to be. Thanks to the extra efforts of our drivers, most of the roads were available for cautious winter driving after and during the height of the storms. As always, we welcome any comments or suggestions regarding the snow plowing systems and procedures. Summer Road Plans: As spring approaches, efforts turn to drainage issues and road maintenance projects. A key project this summer is the resurfacing of US 45 from Lone Elm to our northern boundary. This is a project completely handled by the Wisconsin Division of Transportation (WDOT). After a spring inspection other town roads will be slated for maintenance efforts. Next year we will see bridge replacements at Lone Elm and Koelpin Road. Please drive safely and report any areas of concern at the Town Hall. FROM TREASURER, Scott Altmann: Town of Black Wolf Tax Collection Updates & Reminders Lottery Credit Update -It is important to note that everyone should check their tax bills each year to make sure they received a lottery credit
-If you are a new resident to the Town of Black Wolf you will need to apply for the lottery credit. You do not automatically receive the credit.
If you find you do not have a lottery credit and feel you are entitled to one, contact Scott Altmann by calling (920)688-1404 or (920)235-4320. Mortgage Company Escrows Depending on your mortgage company, there are usually several options when it comes to the processing of your property tax escrow check. The most common two methods are:
-Have your mortgage company send you the check made payable to you and the Town -Have the mortgage company send the check directly to the Town
While the second method is more direct, I run into numerous situations every year where taxpayers are frustrated when their mortgage company does not pay their taxes as expected. I have seen many taxpayers go through some major frustrations with their mortgage company.
By having your mortgage company send the check directly to you, you will usually receive your check sooner and it puts the timing of your payment in your control.
Whichever method you select, it is a good idea to check with your mortgage company as tax time nears to confirm that they are using the method and timing you expect. Property Tax Assessments Each year I will have a number of taxpayers come to me after tax bills have been issued with concerns that their property has been assessed at a value greater than what they feel it is worth. Once the taxes have been levied, there is no way to change your assessment.
If you have concerns regarding your assessment, the town has an annual open book process which allows taxpayers to state their case on concerns over assessed value. You may also contact the Town assessor, Bowmar Appraisals at 920-733-5369. Dog Licenses Many taxpayers include the cost of the dog license on their property tax check. This is an acceptable practice and actually speeds up processing. However, please make sure your dog’s rabies vaccination is up to date. Rabies expiration issues will delay payment of your taxes if you have combined the amounts on one check.
FROM ZONING ADMINISTRATOR, Tom Verstegen Spring is in the air and with it comes the urge to walk the beautiful roads in Black Wolf. Unfortunately, spring also reveals all the litter and carelessly discarded garbage that has collected over the winter months. Most people are pretty good about patrolling their own road frontage and keeping it looking neat and tidy, but being a rural township, there are some long stretches of “country road” that are left unattended. I see many people out walking, carrying discarded cans or bags of garbage. I invite everyone, when out walking or biking, to try to pick up some of the litter. Bring a garbage bag along, fill it up and if need be, leave it and come back later with a car and pick up the bag. It is a noble service to the township and to all of nature to take it upon yourself to pick up after the litterbugs that have no respect for the landscape. The act of picking up litter is also a worthwhile family activity teaching stewardship of the land. On behalf of all the citizens of the town who use the roads, a big “THANK YOU” to those who do care and take an active role in keeping Black Wolf looking nice.☺ ZONING PERMITS: Zoning Permits are issued by Zoning Administrator, Tom Verstegen. Call the Town Hall Office 688-1404 for zoning information or to set up an appointment with Tom. Tom is here on Monday & Tuesday evenings, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm
This spring we plan to televise an additional 20% of the Sanitary District’s sewer mains. This will bring the televising total to 80%. We will also be televising the 28 house and business laterals that we found discharging clear water during last springs main line televising. After televising the first 60% of our sewer mains we have found over 220 gallons per minute of leaks (mostly through sewer house laterals) and corrected more than 168 gallons per minute of these discovered leaks. As an added benefit, the City of Oshkosh treatment plant calculated that if we reduce our flow to the City by 25%, the annual treatment fees savings would total more than $17,000. In addition to helping us protect residents from sewer system overloads, your cooperation is helping us to keep your sewer users fees low. We would like to remind residents that they can save postage by dropping off their quarterly users fees at the Sanitary District Office. There is a slot in the east door of the Sanitary District Office so you can pay them at any time. The Sanitary District Office is located east of the Town Hall. We ask that you include the payment stub from your bill with your deposit. DO NOT pay bills at the Town Hall. __________________________________________________________________________________
at 1-800-621-CASH (you may remain anonymous). You could receive up to $1000 cash for your information, if it leads to the solving of a crime. Also, a crime prevention flyer, “The Crime Reporter” is available at the Town Hall. The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department prepares these flyers every other month with updated information. The Sheriff’s office is collecting cell phones to help crime victims. These can be donated at the Oshkosh Seniors Center, 200 N. Campbell Road, Oshkosh. Call Deputy Steve Herman at 236-7309 for more information. . Veolia (formerly Onyx Waste Services) is responsible for weekly collection of your recyclables and garbage. Along with regular garbage, either Paper (newsprint, magazines, cardboard, etc.) or Co-mingled (tin, aluminum, glass, etc.) recyclables is collected every week. Please refer to the recycling calendar for the regular collection and holiday pickup dates. Contact Veolia (Onyx Waste Services) directly at 800 688-4285 with any questions or problems, or if you have a question about a special pick-up.
what to do with it? Winnebago County now offers a Recycling option every day! Businesses are required by law to recycle computers. For households, it’s a choice. Choose to recycle and prevent hazardous materials like lead, mercury and other heavy metals from your electronics from entering your landfill. Fees will be charged. Here are a few examples: $10 for a TV or monitor, $5 for a laptop, CPU, Printer or VCR, $0 for keyboards, mice, speakers, cords, cell phones. The Winnebago County Transfer Station is located at 105 W Cty Rd Y, Oshkosh. Call: (920)232-1800. SPRING BULB & COMPUTER COLLECTION DAY Wednesday, April 18, 2007 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Recycle your fluorescent bulbs, ballasts, computers, computer components, cell phones and other electronics. Winnebago County Transfer Station - 105 W County Road Y, Oshkosh Charges do apply. TOWN BURNING POLICY: There are no ordinances which prevent burning in the Township; however, please respect your neighbors and observe good safety practices. Be especially careful to burn only during calm periods of the day or early evening.
Back by popular demand! The Town Hall office is once again offering apparel containing the Black Wolf logo. Currently, this is what will be available: a men’s polo shirt with pocket ($15.07), a women’s polo shirt without a pocket ($15.68), hats ($8.44) and a unisex cardigan with pockets ($26.11). There will be a variety of colors to choose from. If you are interested, please stop by the Town Hall and take a look at the samples and place your order. Checks will be made payable to Berlin Trophy. The town does not make any profit from the sale of these items.
Spring is upon us once again and it’s time to send out a few reminders about pets. The Town Dog Ordinance states that dogs must be under control at all times. This doesn’t mean that the dog needs to be on a leash, but if that’s what is needed to keep a dog under control, then do so. With that in mind, if your dog does get away, call me at home (688-2445) so that I can make a note of it and call you back if I get a call or find your dog. If you find a dog running loose, DO NOT CAPTURE OR HOLD THE DOG!!!. Don’t let it in your garage, put it in your kennel, tie it up or let a stray in your house! There have been many instances that a seemingly friendly dog turns on and harms the person(s) that has captured them. All stray or strange dogs should be treated with caution and not approached. Also, try not to leave food out for animals. If you feed them, they will return. This applies to dogs and cats. There are no ordinances regarding cats in the Town. I f you have strays in your area and you want them captured, again, call me at home and I will do what I can to capture them. If you trap a cat on your own (without the knowledge of the Town) you will be responsible for the disposition of the animal. All animals are taken to the Oshkosh Area Humane Society. If you take a dog or cat to the shelter without prior authorization from the Town, you will be charged $35 per animal (or $35 for a litter of pups or kittens). If your pet has been captured and taken to the shelter, there is a fee for picking the pet up. Once an animal has been taken to the shelter, it must be claimed at the shelter. I cannot access the animal once it has been surrendered. The Oshkosh Area Humane Society’s hours are: Sunday & Monday: Closed; Tuesday: 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.; Wednesday: Noon - 6 p.m.; Thursday: 2 p.m. - 8 p.m.; Friday: 2 p.m. - 8 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Holidays: Closed. Wishing all of you a safe and happy spring/summer! ________________________________________________________________________________________ BUILDING PERMITS: Our Building Inspector, Dave Frank, issues Building Permits. Dave is available at the Town Hall Office on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 to 7:00 pm. You may also call Dave directly at his home (920) 233-1999 for building permit questions or problems. PERMITS REQUIRED:
________________________________________________________________________________________ General Information News Meetings Calendar Agendas-Minutes Forms Garbage-Recycling Ordinances Property Taxes Tax Collection Newsletters Smart Growth Picture Page ________________________________________________________________________________________ |
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Questions or Comments: E-mail to the Town Hall Office: mailto:tbw@northnet.net |