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By Levi Zimmerman
The Dodgeville City Council held their regular bi-weekly meeting Tuesday night at City Hall.
The Council approved the consent agenda, which included a temporary B license for Freeze Fest Youth Hockey Tournament sponsored by the Ice Wolves Youth Hockey Association February 25 and 26 and a temporary B license for the St. Joe's Fish Fry February 10.
In addition, Todd Oomens was appointed as a new agent as related to liquor licensing for Kwik Trip Store #340.
The following claims were also approved:
General - $256,720.01
Water - $9,322.05
Sewer - $13,055.49
Total - $279,097.75
The Council held a public hearing regarding a proposed Southwest Wisconsin Community Action Program (SWCAP) Congressionally Direct Spending for the SWCAP Dodgeville Food Pantry drainage and parking lot grant project for $54,000.
SWCAP said there is a need to replace the asphalt, especially where their refrigeration truck is parked, as the current material isn't strong enough to support it.
In addition to the CDS, SWCAP is putting in an additional $18,000 into the project.
SWCAP said this is the first time they have received congressional direct spending.
In reports, City Clerk Lauree Aulik noted the Council's next meeting will be Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 5:30 p.m. due to the spring primary election.
Aulik said early voting has started, and absentee ballots are starting to be sent out.
The Council approved the purchase of a new half-ton sewer truck in the amount of $44,768.36 through Hallada Motors.
After entering closed session, the Council approved and ratified a two-year contract with the Dodgeville Police Union for 2023 and 2024.
The contract provides for a six percent wage increase per year.
Effective January 1, 2023, officers will pay 96% of the gross premium of the least costly qualified plan.
Effective January 1, 2024, officers will pay 93% of the gross premium of the least costly qualified plan.
The City has been in negotiations with the union since November.