COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE - MINUTES - 10/23/2007
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE – CITY OF MUSKEGO Approved
MINUTES OF MEETING HELD TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2007
Mayor Johnson called the meeting to order at 6:12 p.m. and led those present in the
Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Johnson, Aldermen Snead, Pavelko, Borgman, Werner, Melcher,
Schaefer, and Fiedler. Department Heads/Other Staff present: City Administrator
Sheiffer, and Deputy Clerk Blenski. Representative from the Muskego Volunteer Fire
Company and the Tess Corners Volunteer Fire Department (spokespersons Chief Andy
Mack, Michael Kersky, and Tom Ludwig)
STATEMENT OF PUBLIC NOTICE
Deputy Clerk Blenski stated that the meeting had been noticed in accordance with the
Open meeting Law.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Johnson noted that the October 9, 2007 minutes were approved at the meeting
rd
of October 18, 2007. Ald. Melcher noted a correction to page 4, 3 paragraph, of the
October 9, 2007, meeting to state October 23 meeting not November 23 meeting.
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
Discussion on Fire Department Study
Mayor Johnson turned the discussion over to the aldermen, as he was not in
attendance at the October 9, 2007 meeting when this item was discussed.
Ald. Werner noted that he and Ald. Fiedler were requested to secure some financial
information for both departments. Ald. Fiedler reported that they were unable to get
actual figures for the Muskego Volunteer Fire Company, as their audit has not been
received. He felt that the contractual agreement is not being fulfilled. By his
calculations, there would be a yearly savings just in the operating budget of
approximately $119,000.
Ald. Borgman felt that we need a more professional oversight of the whole operation of
both of the fire departments.
Ald. Snead thanked Ald. Werner and Ald. Fiedler, along with city staff, for the
information supplied. It gives a snapshot of what has been spent over the past few
years.
Committee of the Whole Page 2
October 23, 2007
Ald. Melcher voiced his appreciation for all of the work done by the volunteers from both
departments. He stated that an audit is a major issue and he also feels that a five (5)
year plan is essential.
Muskego Volunteer Fire Chief Andy Mack addressed the committee. He questioned
whether a survey was done on budgets for other fire departments in other communities
to make a comparison. He reminded the committee that the Muskego Volunteer Fire
Company cut capital budget expenses by $210,000. Chief Mack was under the
impression that the financials they had submitted months ago was sufficient and just
recently learned that a formal audit was expected which is now in the process. He felt
that the cost comparison should go outside of the community. Chief Mack felt that the
communications within the past month have been nonexistent.
Ald. Werner wanted all to know that he appreciates the volunteerism to the community.
He stated that it is now the Council’s responsibility to review all comments and
information supplied. He believes that the City of Muskego needs one fire department
and that the quality of communication would improve greatly.
Chief Mack stated that the Council should be sitting with both departments and
spending the time to address all issues. He does not feel the Council should be making
any decision without fire departments’ input.
Mayor Johnson’s recommendation is that both departments be brought together to
discuss alternatives.
Ald. Pavelko questioned whether an audit is now being worked on. Chief Mack stated
that now that he understands that the City is requiring a formal audit, they have hired an
accountant to put this together.
Ald. Fielder voiced concern because there is a contract that requires an audit and that a
decision will be made by this Council to get the most efficient service for the community.
He felt that both departments are doing an excellent job for the community.
Ald. Melcher reminded the committee that the City’s auditor made a point of stating that
the City is required to receive an official audit from both fire departments.
Chief Mack stated he agreed with the need for an audit.
The committee agreed that an ad-hoc committee should be formed, with representation
from both departments, whose duty will be
Mr. Tom Ludwig spoke on behalf of both departments and he felt that the new
management is doing a great job and he wants the City to give the department another
year.
Mayor Johnson feels that it makes sense to have one department to service the
community.
Committee of the Whole Page 3
October 23, 2007
Ald. Schaefer felt that taxpayers have paid for the study to be done and identify the
future. Sometimes changes have to be made to address the needs of the City in the
future. She felt that both departments are doing an awesome job and combining all of
the talents would be a benefit to the community
The deferred resolution regarding forming an Ad-Hoc Committee will be addressed at
the November 13, 2007 council meeting.
Ald. Snead requested that the Ad-Hoc Committee be given explicit direction spelling out
their duties.
Mayor Johnson advised that he would like to send a letter, on behalf of the entire
council, to all of the volunteer fire department employees expressing the council’s
appreciation of their dedication and service to the community.
Ald. Schaefer stated that several fire fighters mentioned to her that they would prefer
that any citizen member on the committee should be neutral member with no affiliation
to either department.
ADJOURNMENT
Ald. Snead moved to adjourn at 7:12 p.m. Seconded by Ald. Fiedler; motion carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Cathie M. Anderson
Transcribing Secretary
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