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More Information

WTA and Other Local Government Associations Create the Local Government Institute of Wisconsin

(04/30/08) The WTA is partnering with other local government associations to create a non-profit institute that will research policy issues of shared concern to Wisconsin’s towns, villages, cities and counties. The Local Government Institute of Wisconsin (LGI) was formed in October 2007 to conduct research, foster collaboration and educate the public and policymakers on ways to improve local services. Past WTA President Terry McMahon is a voting member and WTA Executive Director Rick Stadelman is a non-voting member of the institute’s board. Click here for more information about the new institute. Click here for more information.

Two WTA Education Seminar Series Scheduled

(04/30/08) WTA Education Director Thomas Harnisch has scheduled two sets of educational seminars. First, Tom will be joined by attorneys from private practice and state agencies at a series of May seminars (four locations) on “lulus” (Locally Undesirable Land Uses). Second, Tom will lead a series of summer seminars (eight locations) in June, July and August on the “three basics” of local governance: Open Meetings; Open Records; and Ethics. Tom promises not only a clear and full explanation of these essential topics (with help from other WTA attorneys) – but to do so at eight of Wisconsin’s most “pleasant summer locations.” 

Review of Legislative Acts Passed in 2007-2008 Legislative Session

(04/27/08) WTA Executive Director Rick Stadelman has prepared a summary of acts enacted during the 2007-2008 Legislative Session that affect towns in a variety of ways. These range from the new video franchise law and revisions to developer impact fees to repeal of the "automatic" distribution of Wisconsin Statute books to towns. Click here to see the Rick's summary. Complete copies of the newly enacted laws can be downloaded from the Wisconsin Legislature’s website at http://www.legis.state.wi.us/.

Board of Review Forms, Sample Ordinances and Helpful Information Now Available On-Line

(03/28/08) The following information and forms were distributed at Board of Review (BOR) training sessions sponsored by WTA and are now available on-line. You may copy and paste the forms to a Word file for your use:

(1) Sample Ordinance to Appoint Alternate BOR Members
(2) Sample Confidentiality Ordinance
(3) Full Notice of BOR
(4) Notice of Meeting to Adjourn BOR to Later Date
(5) BOR Basics
(6) BOR Findings of Fact, Determination and Decision Motions for BOR Deliberations
(7) BOR Deliberations and Motions

2008 Scholarship Plans Announced

(03/10/08) For the 23rd year, Wisconsin Towns Association, in conjunction with Rural Mutual Insurance Company and Scott Construction, Inc. will be awarding seven scholarships to high school seniors graduating in 2008 on the basis of an essay contest. Click here for more information about the scholarship; click here for an entry form (due May 27, 2008).