2009 FALL Newsletter

Newsletters are published twice a year, in April and October

                                                                                                                                                                                   

GARBAGE AND RECYCLING

By now you should have received two carts marked “Black Wolf.”  Due to circumstances beyond our control the carts were delivered later than

the date given to us.  Thank you for your patience and understanding.  Remember that all garbage/recyclables must be IN THE CARTS.  Do not place

any items/bags, etc. next to them as Veolia will only pick up what is in the cart (lid closed).  If you need an extra cart, you may set up extra service

with Veolia (800-688-4285) for a monthly fee.  Place carts no more than 10’ off the road, in the driveway, next to each other, with both carts

 facing the road.

  Tom Verstegen, Zoning Administrator

Healthy Yards . . . Healthy Lakes and Streams

What we do in our yards can directly affect our lakes and streams. Before using fertilizer on your lawn or gardens, test your soil. A $15 soil test

will show if your soil is lacking anything so that you don’t waste your money on something you don’t even need. Instructions and forms from the UW Soil

and Plant Analysis Lab are online at http://uwlab.soils.wisc.edu/madison/http://uwlab.soils.wisc.edu/madison/. Results will tell you exactly what you need

for healthy lawn and gardens.

If your test shows you do indeed need fertilizer, be sure to clean up any that lands on your sidewalk, driveway or other hard surfaces. If left on paved areas,

it can easily make its way to the nearest lake or stream with the next rainfall. Keeping leaves, grass clippings and other yard waste, which contain nitrogen

and phosphorus, out of any drainageway also helps prevent lakes and streams from becoming green and scummy. When these nutrients wash into lakes and

streams they can promote nasty algae blooms and excessive weed growth (which can lower oxygen levels in the water) and may release ammonia

(toxic to fish).  Healthy yards add to the beauty and value of your home. They can also help our lakes and streams by allowing rainwater to soak into the

soil rather than running off to the nearest storm drain. So, do your part and keep your lakes and streams healthy by using fertilizers only if and where needed.

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October's Bright Blue Weather                                  

O Suns and skies and clouds of June,
And flowers of June together,
Ye cannot rival for one hour
October's bright blue weather     ...Helen Hunt Jackson

 

FLU Season – The flu season is just around the corner.  H1N1 (Swine Flu) has never left us totally, as cases continue to show up.   A resurgence of H1N1 is

expected this fall in addition to seasonal flu.  The Center for Disease Control has identified specific target groups as high priority to receive H1N1 vaccine. 

These include children in day care, school-aged children, 18-24 year olds, pregnant women, adults who have contact with children and first responders. 

Seasonal flu and H1N1 vaccine may be given simultaneously, but the H1N1 might require two doses one month apart and seasonal flu will require only one

dose.  Watch the newspapers for flu clinic

Town Information

Quiet Zone Petition Update (and other railroad track issues)

The latest developments in the Town’s quest to establish a railroad quiet zone could best be summed as “bad news, good news.”

The bad news is that after waiting almost seven months for a decision from the Federal Railroad Administration on our petition,

they have dismissed our application for procedural reasons and have asked us to resubmit our proposal.  It’s hard to fathom how a

federal agency could take more than double the time their regulations require to make a decision of this nature, but that is exactly

what happened.

The good news is our standing has not been jeopardized in any way and we continue to proceed toward the establishment of a quiet

zone.  On September 18^th, a joint letter from the Town of Black Wolf and the Canadian National Railroad (referred to as Wisconsin

Central, LTD in the letter) requesting a waiver from the rule in order to obtain risk reduction credit for two previously closed public

at-grade crossings that could be used in the calculation of the risk indices necessary to establish a quiet zone was sent to the FRA. 

That the CN has signed on without issue is a positive sign and one we welcome.

Further progress will be announced through our regularly scheduled meetings, the website and future newsletters if necessary.

On another note, we received our final installment of safety funds reimbursement from CN in the amount of $7500.00 for the

realignment of Country Club Road.  We are now in the process of working with the WisDOT regional office in Green Bay to secure

federal matching funds.  It is anticipated we’ll be able to see a check in a similar amount before year’s end.

Lastly, as many of you know, our roads undergo a level of degradation at the railroad junctions that resemble major speed bumps

year in and year out.  There are currently two in the town that require attention and, in fact, are already on the CN Railroad’s

maintenance “to do” list.  However, the railroad determines those that are in the worst shape and budget accordingly to get them

fixed.  Until then, use caution and reduce your vehicle speed when approaching these crossings or you risk damaging your car, truck,

trailer etc.  The town is working to stay on top of these problem areas and may place “bump” signs to alert you as these situations arise.

Road and Bridge Maintenance Update

Koelpin Road and Lone Elm Avenue bridges were replaced this summer. Both projects went well without incident or delay.

Thanks go to everyone who has helped implement the projects as well as those who experienced any inconvenience in travel.

lso, one half mile of south Koelpin Road was resurfaced. We still have some crack sealing to complete on other roads before the

winter season.

New fire lane signs have been installed along Lone Elm Avenue, Howlett Road and US Highway 45. This amounts to about 20-25%

of the project, which will be completed in phases over the next one to two years. All current fire lane signs will be replaced.

Many of them have lost their reflectivity and usefulness. The new signs will be placed in consistent locations making them easier to

locate for the drivers of emergency vehicles. Your cooperation is appreciated.

Future Projects

The intersection of County Road I and N (Fisk Avenue) will be upgraded to become a “Roundabout Intersection”. This is a

Winnebago County project to include the Roundabout, the resurfacing of I to the north of the intersection and widening of I to the

north. This project is still in the concept and design stages with construction to begin in 2011.

The Town of Black wolf will be requesting funding to replace the Bridge at .8 miles east of County Road R on Black Wolf avenue.

No funding or time line has been determined at this point.

Any issues, requests or questions regarding town roads are always welcome. Please make contact at the Town Hall to

express any comments.

Illicit Discharge Control Ordinance

On the recommendation of the State of Wisconsin, the Black Wolf Planning and Zoning Committee has recommended and

the Town Board has adopted an ordinance that prohibits the discharge of waste into the Town’s storm water system (in this case,

it is ditches).

In summary: 

·   No one may throw any glass, cans, rubbish, water or filth on the streets, ditches, culverts, or private property not personally

owned or on any body of water in the Town.         

·   No person may deposit grass, leaves or any form of yard waste on any private property he or she does not own.  Wind-borne

yard waste is excluded.

·   No one shall operate, park or store a motor vehicle and cause mud, dirt, stones or vehicle fluids or lubricants to be deposited

on any property not owned by the person or upon the surface of any body of water within the Town.

·   It is unlawful for any person who owns or has custody of a dog, cat or other pet to permit it to defecate on any property

without the consent of the property owner, unless he or she immediately removes the excrement.

Unhappily, some people use Town ditches as informal garbage dumps for unwanted materials such as tires and electronic equipment.

The majority of the regulations in this ordinance are mere common sense or common courtesy. Penalties for

violations are, however, quite substantial ($100-$500). If you observe someone dumping into ditches on your property, please call the

Town Hall with information and we will initiate enforcement action.  If you would like a full version of this ordinance, please contact the

Town Clerk.

Snow Plowing Policy

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.

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October’s Party - October gave a party, the leaves by the hundreds came.  Chestnuts, Oaks and Maples, and leaves of every name.

Color Me Weary

Folks who view the changing leaves

report the sight breathtaking.

 But, Autumn’s palette leaves me cold...

I’m much too stiff from raking!

 

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!

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 2009 for income tax purposes, the postmark must be on or before December 31, 2009 or put in the 24-Hour Access DROP BOX

before midnight (12/31/2009). 

Ø All other first installments paid by mail must have a postmark of January 31, 2010 or put in the 24-Hour Access DROP BOX before midnight

(1/31/2010). 

Ø The Town of Black Wolf Treasurer cannot collect any taxes after January 31, 2010.  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.

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.  DO NOT DROP OFF BLACK WOLF SANITARY DISTRICT PAYMENTS IN THIS BOX. 

They have a slot in their door for that purpose (building just East of the Town Hall on the corner of County R and Black Wolf.

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:        

                Tuesday, December 22, 2009

                Thursday, January 21, 2010                               

DOG LICENSING:  Town Ordinance allows two (2) dogs per residence -

Pursuant to Section 174.052, Wisconsin Statutes, all dogs five (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 five (5) months of age, and re-vaccinated within one

(1) year.  Older vaccinated dogs must be re-vaccinated when the certificate expires or within three (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.

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Van Dyne Volunteer Fire Department

The Town of Black Wolf along with the Van Dyne Volunteer Fire Department is currently seeking members to fill the active roster.  Firefighting, fire protection

and fire prevention are all-essential in today’s community which requires time and dedication.  These can only be accomplished by having a full roster of

firefighters.  The Town of Black Wolf is required to provide fire protection to all of its residents.  The suggestion of hiring a full-time paid department

staff has been considered.  However, the administration costs make this an option the Town would rather not have to pursue at this time.  We would

prefer to continue our long tradition of providing the best fire protection we can on a volunteer basis.  We do face a problem today, and that is 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 feel

the need to recruit some people immediately.  Over the past 80 years we have faced many challenges, but now we need your help.

To become a member, you will meet with the Chief and the Training Officer who will inform you about the expectations.  After filling out the application,

the membership will vote you in and place you on the roster.  During the first year of membership you will be required to take a state-certified fire class

that is 60 hours in length.  Training at our department requires about 4 hours of your time every month.  You must be at least 18 years old to join the

department, and we will consider all applicants regardless of your schedule.  Previous experience is not required.  A retirement plan is available to all

active members, and we have a cadet program for individuals 14 years of age or older (along with parent consent).  If you are interested or have

questions, please feel free to contact us:   Chief Doug Seffern (688-2364) or First Assistant Chief Dave Babler (688-2226).  The Van Dyne Volunteer

Fire Department takes great pride in protecting the people in this community, and also the teaching of fire education to adults and also our children. 

Please consider volunteering some of your time by joining us.  –

            Douglas Seffern, Chief, Van Dyne Fire Department

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Happy Birthday to Us!

    (Picture of old town hall)

 

Next year, the Town of Black Wolf will be 160 years old! The Town of Brighton organic election was held on April 5, 1847 and

included in its limits the present towns of Black Wolf, Nekimi and part of Algoma.  On November 14, 1850 the Winnebago County

Board set off the Town of Black Wolf.   We’d like to observe this milestone by putting together a small booklet about the history of

the Town.  We plan to observe the 160 years and also the 10 year anniversary of the new Town Hall with some type of celebration

early next Fall.   If you’d like to be on the historical planning committee, please call the office (688-1404).  Or, if you would like to

share some historical information, pictures, etc. please call the Town Hall office and let us know. 

 

 Chris Martell, Town Constable

Just a reminder:  dogs that are walked should be under control. "Under control" doesn't necessarily mean on a leash, but definitely keep the dog

from wandering out of your direct area. With that said, I would encourage everyone who walks their dog to have it on a leash, just to avoid any

 possible issues. Even well-behaved dogs cannot resist a bad example. 

In addition, please clean up after your pets, whether they choose the road or someone’s lawn as a source of relief. Our pet owning citizens are

almost always very, very good about this.  However, a reminder now and then is better than scraping off your shoe or someone having to clean it up

from their yard.

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.

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.

The Town’s ordinance allows only two (2) dogs per household in residential 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 detailed message. Be sure to include your name and phone

number and a brief description of the problem.   

Black Wolf Sanitary District

This summer the Black Wolf Sanitary District televised and identified leaks in the last 15 laterals identified during last Spring’s mainline televising. 

Nearly all of the leaking laterals have now been repaired.  These repairs are the last to be completed in our system.  We have now completed televising

all ten miles of our sewer mains and inspected and repaired all 400 of the District’s manholes.  We have also televised over 100 sewer laterals and had

nearly all of the identified leaks repaired.  This will complete the clear water abatement program started in 2004.  We will continue to monitor flows with

the aid of our newly-purchased push camera.  We would like to thank all of the Black Wolf Sanitary District users for their patience over the past five years.

We would also like to ask all users to be careful not to pour grease down any drain and not to place items like dental floss or clothing in the sewer. 

Please identify and inspect any sewer cleanouts on your lateral for damage.  A cap and frost sleeve must be in place on your cleanout.  If you have any

questions about your cleanout, please call the Black Wolf Sanitary District office at 233-2901.

Testing...Testing

2008 Wisconsin State Test Results
There are four categories for scoring tests given to all Wisconsin public school students:

            Minimal, Basic, Proficient & Advanced. 

Lakeside/Green Meadow students scored the following percentage of Proficient/Advanced

in the 2008 tests:

READING -             3^rd grade –   Lakeside – 92%

                       4^th grade – Green Meadow-91%

                       5^th grade –  Green Meadow – 94%

MATHEMATICS      3^rd grade –    Lakeside – 97%

                      4^th grade –  Green Meadow-100%

                       5^th grade –  Green Meadow – 96%

For more details, go to the Wisconsin Dept. of Public Instruction website, select WINSS,

Data Analysis, Select by District (Oshkosh) and “Show Schools.” 

http://data.dpi.state.wi.us/data/selschool.asp

Looking Back...The way we were...1892

Record of Chattel Mortgage filed

Hans Rassmussen & wife to Henry Hewiltsen

Oct. 27, 1892 – Sum of $50.00 – Secured on one Bay Stallion 3 years old called Dexter, marked 4 white feet being now on

Randall Farm sect. 16, (note: area by Jesuit Retreat)

Town of Black Wolf. Caspar Zwickey, Town Clerk

 (Marked Paid Dec. 29, 1893)

 Winter is an etching, Spring a watercolor, Summer an oil painting, Autumn a mosaic of them all.  Stanley Horowitz

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      2009 SPRING Newsletter