The Richland Center Common Council discussed the possibility of amending the ordinances of governing the Park Board

The Richland Center Common Council discussed the possibility of amending the ordinances of governing the Park Board at last night’s (Tuesday) meeting. Alderman Chris Jarvis stated that he had met with the new Park Board President, Katherine Lewindowski and vice president Pat Elliott and shared a document with the council pertaining to the ordinance. City Attorney, Michael Windle stated that it was a good document and touched the things he would have written up. The council then discussed the matter of the budget and who would consider fees. Jarvis said fees would be set by the park board. Alderman Frank Hoffman questioned who has control of the upkeep and maintenance cost of the parks. He stated that the aquatic center at this time loses $150,000 a year and the city can not absorb that loss and it would have to come out of the park board budget. He said the document didn’t cover those expenses. Alderperson Rachel Schultz said that she felt the accountability clause in the document answered those questions. Attorney Windle said he would write up an ordinance that would possibly clarify the document and questions the council has.

The council also unanimously approved to amend Appendix A of the Council Rules, General Government Committee item A, to add the mayor as a non-voting, ex officio member of the General Government Committee. The mayor shall not vote, make motions, and not be counted toward the Committee’s quorum.

The City of Richland Center purchased the property at 278 West Court Street from the Fergusons in 2024 and have maintained a lease allowing them to continue occupying and operating the Advanced Pump and Well Solutions building pending redevelopment. The lease was structured as one year with one automatic renewal and may be terminated on 60 days’ notice. Both terms have been exhausted and a new lease needs to be executed. With no redevelopment planned for the site at this time, a new lease was recommended. The proposed 2026 lease renewal with Advanced Pump and Well Solutions, Inc. increases monthly rent from $1,000 to $1,250, or $15,000 annually, which is consistent with the $250 escalation provided for in the original lease.  The motion was approved unanimously. 

The council also approved a Conditional Use Permit to Ryan and Megan Pluemer for the construction of a 256 foot garden shed on Arbor Lane.

The next meeting for the Richland Center City Council has been postponed to August 18 so members can attend Richland County’s National Out on Tuesday, August 4, at the Richland County Fairgrounds.