A significant portion of the meeting focused on the ongoing challenges related to project funding, particularly concerning Parker Road. Due to the HUD shutdown, the council encountered difficulties with a contracted water repair project. The project could not proceed until payment was secured. However, a financial reprieve was found when funds were discovered in a savings account, allowing the contractor to initiate work. The council also received insurance money related to this project, but it came with a caveat: the current insurance company would no longer cover them due to the project’s scope, prompting the need to search for a new provider. This situation highlighted the complexities and dependencies in managing local infrastructure projects and the importance of having contingency plans.

Additionally, the council discussed the new franchise agreement with Midco, a company aiming to establish internet and television services in the region. This agreement could impact the community by enhancing connectivity and service options for residents. The initial step in this process involves a public hearing, scheduled for the last meeting in November, with the first reading of the agreement set for the upcoming meeting. This new development was met with anticipation, and there is eagerness from both the council and the community to learn more about Midco’s plans and how they will integrate into the existing infrastructure.

The council meeting also addressed the operational dynamics of the farmers market. It was noted that the market “pretty much runs itself,” with vendors handling their own setups. Discussions included plans for the council to participate in the upcoming Janesville Night Out by serving hot dogs and hamburgers, a tradition formerly upheld by past mayors, which was seen as an opportunity for community engagement.

Another pertinent topic was the introduction of a paid family medical leave policy. The council was informed that employees must apply for this benefit through the state, which is responsible for its approval. Employees could take up to 12 weeks of medical leave and an additional 12 weeks of family leave, with total paid leave capped at 20 weeks. Employees would receive a portion of their wages during this leave, not the full amount. The council was urged to vote on this policy promptly to ensure that employees are informed before the implementation deadline of January 1.

In connection with employee benefits, an amendment to the sick and safe time policy was discussed. The consensus was that employees would not accrue vacation or sick time while on paid leave.

The meeting also included a presentation of the general fund budget, revealing a reduction in the anticipated levy increase from 15% to 11%. This adjustment was attributed to changes in expenses and revenues, particularly those related to state aid programs and health insurance premiums. The potential for further budget cuts or revenue increases was considered, including the possibility of raising building permit and franchise fees to align with other communities. The current franchise fee is 5%, and there was interest in assessing whether this rate should be adjusted.

During the police report, it was noted that calls had increased compared to the same quarter last year but showed a decline from the previous quarter. The report highlighted a rise in fraud and theft cases and mental health-related calls. The department’s staffing includes eight employees, comprised of four full-time officers and a school resource officer. Concerns were raised about the police chief’s ability to effectively supervise staff given administrative responsibilities. The chief acknowledged the challenge, expressing a desire to engage more with the community despite administrative tasks consuming much of his time.