Town of Center Board Meeting February 21, 2026 minutes found at https://centerwi.gov/agendas-minutes/
In a meeting marked by pointed exchanges regarding municipal ethics and resource allocation, the Town of Center Board saw the withdrawal of a significant private proposal for the local baseball diamond. The session also focused on equipment upgrades for first responders and managing the logistical impact of major upcoming regional construction projects.
Executive Summary
The Town Board officially removed a private baseball tournament proposal from the agenda following public concerns over potential conflicts of interest. Additionally, the board moved toward upgrading emergency medical equipment and discussed the long-term financial sustainability of the town’s park facilities.
Baseball Field Proposal and Ethical Debates
The most significant development involved the “Center Valley Baseball” proposal. During public comment, concerns were raised regarding whether town-funded facilities were being used to further private business interests, specifically by individuals involved in town decision-making.
- Proposal Withdrawn: The sponsoring board member officially withdrew the proposal, citing the “ugly” nature of recent debates and the involvement of legal counsel.
- Conflict of Interest Discussion: The board discussed the precedent of members doing business with the town. It was noted that while members may provide services (such as electrical work), they must abstain from relevant votes to avoid “personal gain.”
- Park Usage Conflicts: A lengthy discussion ensued regarding the prioritization of the town pavilion versus the ball diamond. Members expressed concern that large tournaments could overwhelm parking and facilities, potentially displacing residents who rent the pavilion for private events like family reunions.
First Responders and Public Works Updates
The board reviewed monthly activity and addressed specific equipment needs for town staff and emergency services.
- Medical Cabinet Upgrade: Following concerns from the board regarding the security of medical supplies, the First Responders presented options for a new locking med cabinet. The board will review these options for approval at the next meeting.
- UTV Acquisition: The board discussed the purchase of a UTV for park maintenance. While the purchase is within the current budget, a formal resolution will be presented next month to amend the budget and facilitate the transfer of funds.
- Response Efficiency: A query was raised regarding why 15 personnel responded to a single fire alarm; department leadership clarified that high initial response is standard safety protocol until a scene is confirmed safe.
Infrastructure and Legal Compliance
The town is bracing for significant traffic and wear-and-tear on local roads due to the upcoming Highway 41 expansion project.
- Road Bonding Dispute: Public Works reported that a construction company (Massuda Construction) requested to haul 150,000 yards of dirt over town roads. However, the company refused to sign a bond to cover potential road damage, which could cost the town millions in repairs.
- Act 68 Compliance: The board unanimously approved a motion to have legal counsel review Chapter 24 ordinances to ensure the town’s developer agreements align with new Wisconsin subdivision law changes (Act 68).
- Record Destruction: Following a unanimous vote, the board authorized the clerk to destroy obsolete financial records and vouchers from 2004–2019 that have passed the seven-year retention requirement.
Key Action Items
- Legal Review: Attorney Chuck Taylor to review Act 68 subdivision law changes.
- Budget Resolution: A resolution to move funds for the park UTV will be on the March agenda.
- Facility Fees: Staff will research fee structures for neighboring ball diamonds to help the town establish a maintenance-recovery fee for the March meeting.
“We’re looking to do something positive for the youth in our community that nobody’s done before… but I will be taking the proposal off the table.” — Board Member, on the Center Valley Baseball withdrawal.
The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 2026.
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