The Whitewater Common Council met on Tuesday, October 1 in the Whitewater Municipal building to speak about the recent changes and issues affecting the Whitewater community. The Common Council meets on the first and third of every month at 6:30 p.m. to discuss ongoing projects, upcoming events, and revenue related topics. The main goal of this meeting was to discuss the proposed 2020 budget through a presentation created by the City Manager, Cameron Clapper.
The council presented their annual report throughout the council meeting as they discussed the recent happenings within the Whitewater area and also upcoming events. The Herb Kohl Foundation granted scholarships to four lucky high school Whitewater 2019 graduates. Also, Mark Elworthy presented plans and updates to the playgrounds within the Whitewater area and surrounding cities as well.
The Council discussed the plans for the upcoming budget expenditures. It was proposed that the Whitewater budget would be $9.8 million, which is about a three percent increase of last years budget. These budgets are being funded by the intergovernmental revenue and property taxes.
Cameron Clapper, the City Council and finance manager, discussed the budget stated that, “tax levies have gone up a little over three percent each year since 2008, and this percent is only increasing,”
“We focus on creating a balanced 2020 budget where our revenues are equal to our expenditures,” says Clapper.
Another discussion brought to the council by Matthew Sylvester-Knutson was the process of dissolving the Palmayra-Eagle Area School District (SDBAB) which gives Whitewater interest because they may be taking a portion of this region in the near future. After September 10, the school districts around the Whitewater area will meet to speak on dissolving the SDBAB.
Knutson stated that, “the decision for this change will be made on January 15, 2019”. If this change occurs, it will take place later in July of 2020.
Brion Nash, a student at the University of Whitewater, brought up an issue to the council to request a stop sign and crosswalk to the three-way corner of prince street and Florence, due to the fact that it is not safe for students to walk through this intersection. This was passed to be discussed later on with the council, soon to be approved.
On October 6, the Whitewater community will be holding their 29thCROP Hunger Walk fundraiser to help over 1,670 food pantries across of all Wisconsin. The community hopes that all residents within the area are aware of this event and come walk for a good cause.
In other action Tuesday:
- Ribbon cutting ceremonies
- National FFA winners
- US Census 2020
- Spirit Tour
- Amphitheater Installation
- Major capital projects
For more information on the Whitewater Common Council, please visit https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/308/Common-Council