Konkel’s observations, Alder, homeless services and bikeupdates, COVID-19 Wall of Shame, surveys, petitions, Conservation Congress voting, new judge appointment and more.
KONKEL’S OBSERVATIONS
A new feature of the round up. This is where things will go that either aren’t worthy of a full blog post and/or I don’t have time to post.
- Shouldn’t the Board of Canvassers meeting on Monday and the County Board meetings on Thursday and Friday be televised for all to see. Given the highly unusual nature of the election, this seems to be of great public importance. We shouldn’t have to, yet again, risk our lives to be able to observe this highly unusual process. After all, wasn’t that the whole issue with this last election, we shouldn’t have to risk our lives to participate in our democracy. And here the city and county repeating the same problem again and causing more questions about our elections process. The county does have public comment on their agenda, but no way to call in and participate.
- It seems really weird that the School Board is holding “public input sessions” but doesn’t have agenda items listed that the public should give input on . . . can you just speak to anything you want?
- What do you think this school board closed session meeting is about? Is it about the school superintendent hire? Are the considering two internal candidates? What’s going on? The public is supposed to have a general idea of what is being considered. I guess we will know when they announce a decision that was never on any public agendas.
- The Attorney General Open Meetings compliance guide states the following on page 18 that the notice “must contain the specific nature of the business, as well as the exemption(s) under which the chief presiding officer believes a closed session is authorized.” The school board notes the exemption, but not the “specific nature of the business”
- Speaking of the closed session meeting – the school board has to vote in open session (page 30). They haven’t publicized the zoom meeting so they can make that announcement to the public.
ALDER UPDATES 4-10-20
From Your Common Council Office:
This week the City launched its first ever COVID-19 weekly newsletter. Each week, the City will email this newsletter to subscribers with the latest information, changes to City services and resources to stay connected. Subscribe here.
If you missed the first issue, it included a word of encouragement from Public Health Madison & Dane County about how our social distancing practices are working and why we must continue to follow the Safer At Home order. It highlighted the City’s new homepage which is designed to keep you informed about changes to City services. And we shared the governor’s latest orders to close the state parks along with a reminder to use our City and County parks responsibly so they can remain open.
These weekly newsletters, along with email and text alerts, are available in English and Spanish. Don’t miss an update… Subscribe today!
From the Governor’s Office:
Gov. Tony Evers announced today that the state is seeking volunteers to support Wisconsin’s healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic. Active and retired healthcare professionals and those who wish to help in non-clinical support positions are encouraged to sign up to volunteer through the Wisconsin Emergency Assistance Volunteer Registry (WEAVR).
“We are creating a wide network of volunteers to increase capacity at hospitals and clinics across Wisconsin,” said Gov. Evers. “Our top priority is to make sure there are enough resources to care for the growing number of people who require hospitalization or other healthcare interventions because of this pandemic.”
The number of patients in Wisconsin who need to be treated for COVID-19 is expected to surge in the coming weeks. Building a network of available volunteers now will greatly reduce the hardships on hospitals and clinics that would not normally have the capacity to care for the increase in patients.
Both active and retired healthcare professionals can volunteer for critical clinical roles by entering their information into the WEAVR, a secure, password-protected, web-based volunteer registration system for healthcare and behavioral health professionals. Individuals who are not licensed professionals are also encouraged to sign up to volunteer for non-clinical support positions.
Volunteers will be assigned to locations across Wisconsin to support ongoing efforts related to the COVID-19 national emergency. Those who are willing to travel should note that when they sign up. All volunteers should also be aware that they will be required to complete a background check.
For up-to-date information about Wisconsin’s COVID-19 response, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) COVID-19 webpage. We encourage you to follow @DHSWI on Facebook, Twitter or dhs.wi on Instagram for more information on COVID-19.
Gov. Tony Evers announced today that he is seeking applicants for the Dane County Circuit Court – Branch 7. The appointment will fill a vacancy created by Judge William Hanrahan’s resignation. The new judge will complete a term ending July 31, 2021.
The application to apply can be found on Gov. Evers’ website by clicking “Apply to Serve.” Applications must be received by April 27, 2020.
Completed applications must be sent to GOVJudicialAppointments@wisconsin.gov. Potential applicants with questions about the judicial selection process may contact the Governor’s Office of Legal Counsel at (608) 266-1212.
From Public Health:
As of April 10 at 8:30 am, there are 316 people who have tested positive for coronavirus in Dane County.
Read our recommendations and guidance for ways to stay safe and healthy. Our FAQ page has additional information for common questions about testing, and ways to help.
4/10/20 AM COVID News Roundup
- Madison West football coach among 13 issued warning for violating state ‘safer at home’ order:https://bit.ly/3c6RdFV
- Madison School District offers guidelines for staff on how to keep Zoom secure for direct instruction:https://bit.ly/2xaGwDH
- Four weeks after emergency declaration, Wisconsin leaders still working on COVID relief bill:https://bit.ly/39WggKw
- ‘It’s almost like you’re treasure hunting’: Amidst a pandemic, cleaning supply companies search for products:https://bit.ly/39TGcX2
- DWD asks for applicants’ patience as it adapts to high volume, pushes for repeal of 1-week wait requirement:https://bit.ly/2xZZhJT
- Gov. Evers suspends provisions to give more low-income veterans emergency aid access:https://bit.ly/2RrYHvm
- Wisconsin clerks guarding ballots for days before counting; Missing absentees spur questions and anger:https://bit.ly/2xj1Q9X
- Wisconsin’s coronavirus death toll has passed 100. Here are just a few of the lives lost: https://bit.ly/34x8RjB
- ‘Beyond horrible’: Families of coronavirus victims must say goodbye over the phone—or not at all:https://bit.ly/2UWqlmo
HOMELESS SERVICES UPDATES
CAC SSVF Hotline
If you encounter a veteran in need of housing assistance please direct towards the CAC Supportive Services Veterans Families (SSVF) Hotline at 608-237-1252.
Legal Action of Wisconsin – Dane County Eviction Process
Attached is the WI Eviction Moratorium FAQ in Spanish. Wisconsin Eviction Moratorium FAQ (Spanish) (1) Short informational videos are available in English and Spanish on our website and youtube channel as well. https://www.legalaction.org/additional-resources/housing
We are working on getting the FAQ translated into Hmong and will share as soon as it is ready.
I understand that pursuant to Judge Bailey Rihn’s April 2 Order on small claims proceedings, all new eviction filings will be reviewed by a circuit court judge to see if the case can proceed under the eviction moratorium. Tenants facing a notice of termination of tenancy, illegal lockout, and/or eviction case, may contact Legal Action for help. I can be reached via email or phone at 608-620-2002.
Heidi M. Wegleitner
Attorney at Law
she/her/hers
744 Williamson St., Ste. 200, Madison, WI 53703
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, LAW staff are currently working from home.
Email is best, but I am checking my voicemail regularly.
(p) 608-620-2002 (e) hmw@legalaction.org
DANE COUNTY NEEDS A NEW JUDGE
| Gov. Evers Seeks Applicants for Dane County Circuit Court |
| MADISON – Gov. Tony Evers announced today that he is seeking applicants for the Dane County Circuit Court – Branch 7. The appointment will fill a vacancy created by Judge William Hanrahan’s resignation. The new judge will complete a term ending July 31, 2021.
The application to apply can be found on Gov. Evers’ website by clicking “Apply to Serve.” Applications must be received by April 27, 2020. Completed applications must be sent to GOVJudicialAppointments@ |
COVID-19 WALL OF SHAME
VOTE ONLINE WISCONSIN CONSERVATION CONGRESS
Online opportunity to weigh in on Wisconsin wildlife questions runs April 13-16, 2020
Wisconsinites have the chance to provide input online April 13-16 on natural resources advisory questions advanced by DNR, its policy-making board, and the Wisconsin Conservation Congress as part of the annual spring hearings process.
The in-person meetings where residents have traditionally voted have been cancelled in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. All questions are available online and are strictly advisory to DNR.
This online input opportunity allows you to weigh in on hunting, fishing and trapping questions, boating safety, and a question regarding whether the state should require hunters to use nontoxic ammunition on state owned or managed properties.
See page 12 of the questionnaire booklet to see background for this and other questions you can weigh in on.
Vote here starting 7 p.m. Monday, April 13, to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 16.
BIKE MADISON UPDATES
COVID-19 Bike Walk Updates
As you may have seen, Madison Bikes has asked the City to create additional space for people and the Wisconsin Bike Fed has sent out an Action Alert on that same topic. The City of Madison is currently working on creating additional space for people to walk and bike. The City recognizes that continuing to have safe outdoor walking and biking is critical for essential travel as well as for the mental well being of Madison residents. In addition to working on streets for people, the City has recently automated a number of intersections so that users no longer need to push a button to get the pedestrian walk light or green bike light. Many of these have received signage covering the button and the remaining ones will in the near future.
Path counts for March 16 to April 5 were analyzed by Madison Bikes and show that ridership is at the same level as other years. Weekend use is down a little but that may be a reflection of this year’s weather. In a quick survey of data, it looks, not surprisingly, like there is reduced ridership from 6-9am and late evenings. The afternoon ridership, however, is more than making up for those decreases.
This week the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources announced the closure of 40 state parks, forests, and recreation areas due to concerns around overcrowding, litter and vandalism. This includes most south central region properties. Dane County managed properties like the Capital City Trail and Yahara River Trail are still open although they are also adding social distancing signage and monitoring the paths. What can you do to help?
- Good trail etiquette is more important now than ever. Slow down. Always wait to pass until there is 6 feet between you and everyone you are passing. Let people know when are passing.
- Bike and walk single file along the edge of shared-use paths.
- Always wait to pass until you can pass everyone near you with at least 6 feet distance. On narrow bridges, like those along John Nolen Dr., always ride single file and wait to pass until you are off the bridge. If you are mountain biking on narrow singletrack trails, wait until the trail widens out so you can pass safely.
- Do not go out on the path with a friend and walk/bike 6 feet across from each other so you can chat. This makes it impossible for other people to pass you.
- If you arrive at a crowded trailhead, go to a different part of the park or a different park/trail..
- Don’t linger at parking lots or trailheads.
- If you are riding for recreation and mental well being, ride at less popular times if possible.
- Do stay local. Discover new things in your own neighborhood. Do not travel “up north” to your favorite park or trail.
- Current health guidelines recommend cloth face coverings for everyone when they are outside the home. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services now has information under the “Should I wear a cloth face mask” section to help you understand when you should wear one.
- If you touch a flashing beacon light button, a bench, a fix-it station, BCycle or similar item, do not then touch your face after usage. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer as soon afterwards as possible.
- Be patient with everyone around you as we are all in this together.
- Stay home if you or someone in your household feels sick.
More useful information:
- Want to help out? The City is looking for cloth face covering donations for staff in jobs like Streets, Parks, and others. More Information
- Madison Bikes Updated Bike Shop Information
- Madison BCycle remains open and is taking precautions but please wash your hands before and as soon after usage as possible.
- Public Health Madison & Dane County COVID-19 Information
- Mayor Satya Rhodes Conway: Let’s Double Down on Social Distancing
Share your photos of walking and biking with the hashtag #walkbikemadison!
MEETINGS
- The Transportation Commission will be meeting virtually on Wed, April 15.
CONSTRUCTION UPDATES
Work Happening Now:
Operations staff are continuing to work and project staff in Traffic Engineering and Engineering continue to manage and move projects forward.
- Cottage Grove Rd from the Interstate to Sprecher Rd – Road reconstruction is starting the week of April 13. This project includes buffered bike lanes and new sidewalk in locations where there is none. Project Information
- Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Sidewalk Replacement – Work has started on the sidewalks on the east side of the 100 block and on the sanitary sewer repairs on the 200 bock. The 200 block is closed to traffic through at least Mon, April 13. Bike racks have been moved to new locations so please look along the Capitol Square, Doty St and Wilson St for parking.Project Information
- Fish Hatchery Rd Reconstruction – Work is happening in the section in the City of Fitchburg. Detour at the Cannonball Path north of the beltline if traveling south from Madison. Project Information
- Dayton St – This UW project has resumed to finish project items not completed in 2019.
- E Johnson St – Work is beginning to finish up things that were not completed in 2019. This includes some sidewalk work where temporary closures on one side of the street will be needed. Some work will also take place near the MG&E driveway and the cycletrack may close and bikes will need to ride on the sidewalk area temporarily. All disruptions will be very short.
- Old Sauk Road between Pleasant View Rd & Pioneer Rd – This section of road will be closed starting April 1. Bicyclists will wan to use Pleasant View Rd to Blackhawk Rd to Twin Valley Rd. Motor vehicle traffic will be detoured to Pioneer Rd and Mineral Point. Bicyclists will want to continue on to Big Stone Trail to White Fox Lane to the Pioneer Park Path to return to Old Sauk Road.
- West Towne Path extension and underpass of Gammon Rd – Avoid travel on Gammon Rd near the Beltline and West Towne Mall if possible. Currently two lanes of traffic are being maintained but roadway flagging may occur as needed. Access to the mall is being maintained in this area but it will be easier to use Mineral Point Rd entrances. This project includes construction of a shared-use path from the Struck St ped/bike underpass to the west side of S Gammon Rd via a ped/bike underpass of Gammon Rd. Project Information
- S Ingersoll St at McPike Park – The street is closed. Please follow the detour.
- Monona’s Bridge Rd – Monona has Bridge Rd closed between Inland Way and Lake Pointe Dr. The Lake Loop will not be impacted but access to other streets will be.
- UW Arboretum Curtis Pond Rehabilitation – Work is going on near the west entrance to the arboretum across from the Curtis Pond. New stop signs have been installed and trucks will be using the road. Please follow any signage or workers. Watch for gravel in the road.
- McKenna Blvd Flood Mitigation Project – Work is completed near Elver Park and is moving to the Schroeder Rd/Struck Ave area. Project Information
- Reinhndahl Park Path remains closed for the Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District interceptor project.
- Campus Drive Path remains closed behind the UW Veterinary Building.
Upcoming Projects:
- Southwest Path Resurfacing – Two sections are scheduled for resurfacing in 2020: Odana Rd to Glenway St and Commonwealth Ave to S Prospect Ave. The contractor is allowed to do the work between the beginning Of May and the beginning of September. The closure will be announced a minimum of 14 days in advance and will take no more than 5 days. Project Information
- Capitol Square – A State of Wisconsin project will impact the Capitol Square starting later this year. More information will be posted as it becomes available.
Information on other future city projects can be found on the City of Madison Engineering webpage.
SIGN PETITION TO SUPPORT SEIU MERITER STAFF
SEIU workers at Meriter Hospital are asking for community support as they provide live-saving treatment to patients during the coronavirus pandemic.
All they want is your signature on the petition there and to share it however you can: Facebook, Twitter, email to family and friends, etc.
WATER MAIN FLUSHING
Water Main Flushing plans beginning Monday, April 13th (all flushing is daytime unless otherwise noted)
