Kurt Wesolowski (left) and Josh Marnocha lead the cheering section at Seymour's WIAA Regional win over Little Chute - Photo by Rick Cohler
The public will have a chance to speak out on a proposed revision in the Tax Increment Funded District No. 3 at a hearing on Monday, March 22. Three possible projects are proposed in the district which encompasses the city’s industrial park.
First, the extension of Mainline Drive north to Bronson Road at a cost of $1.2 million, including installation of utilities.
Second, the construction of a water main loop and the construction of Seidl Drive in the residential development estimated to cost $708,000 and third, radium remediation treatment for the city’s water supply, estimated to cost $800,000.
City Clerk/Treasurer Sue Garsow said approval of the modifications does not necessarily mean the city will proceed with the projects, but, if and when, the time comes, the projects can be financed through the TIF district, rather than the general tax roles.
Under the TIF process, existing properties in the district continue to pay the amount of property taxes they do at the time the TIF is created. Assessments on further improvements within the district pay off the financing used to install infrastructure improvements.
During Council discussion at its Monday, March 8 meeting, Alderman Dave Fairbanks questioned the timing of the process, saying it might be better to wait until after the April 6 election.
Alderwoman Darlene Werner said she’s concerned that if the revised TIF does not do well, the burden would fall upon property taxpayers.
Alderman Vernon Court said the Council should be looking for ways to see Seymour progress and the next Council can make the right decisions.
Mayor Ken Rottier told the Council that the next Council will have control over when and if to proceed with any project. He also pointed out that the previous two TIFs in the city were successful and the third is doing well.
Fairbanks said he was satisfied.
The Joint Review Board, consisting of representatives from other taxing authorities affected by the TIF financing, along with citizen member Todd Kreuser will meet at 5:30 p.m., followed by the hearing at 6. The city’s Plan Commission will meet at 6:30 and decide whether to recommend passage. The full Council will then vote at its 7 p.m. meeting.
Wastewater treatment
The Council approved a $107,425 upgrade of the treatment plant’s influent pump control system.
The system controls all of the incoming sewage and if the 28-year-old system failed, it could cause sewer backups throughout the city.
Energenecs of Cedarburg will install the update, while Stiegler Electrical Contractors, Green Bay, will construct the needed wiring. The city received a Focus on Energy incentive of $5,250.
The utility will use funds from the DNR Equipment Fund until final financing is determined after a utility audit.
In other business, the Council:
•Was told that most city ordinances are now on-line on the city’s web site at www.seymour.govoffice.com.
•Will look into the cost of a panic button for the lower level.
Police Chief Rick Buntrock said the device is needed because there have been occasional disturbances involving food pantry attendees.
