Watch this compilation video of Wisconsin's amazing #CityHallSelfies from 2019 and be inspired!
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ELGL's International #CityHallSelfie Day is Friday, August 14! (Yes, of course Villages can participate too!)
There's a new #CityHomeSelfie category for those working from home. Use both hashtags and tag the League in your posts!
Come on Wisconsin cities and villages! This is your chance to showcase your local gov love. Participation is easy:
- Take a picture of yourself in front of your local government building – any municipal building works!
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Post the picture on social media with the hashtag #CityHallSelfie. On Twitter, tag @LeagueWIMunis in your post and the League will retweet you, take a screenshot of your tweet and post it to Facebook. Tag us on Facebook and we’ll share your post to the League’s page.
The Engaging Local Government Leaders (ELGL)will have trophies, recognition and prizes for the people and organizations that show the most pride and creativity on the big day.
This day is all about local government pride.
So it doesn't matter if you work for a city or village, town or county - just hop in front of a municipal building, snap a picture, and use the hashtag to share it with the world!
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Janesville's Covid-19 Positive Employee Process Map & Quarantine Timelines
"The City of Janesville has worked through our first positive COVID-19 cases involving our City employees during the month of July. Based upon what we learned, our Deputy Incident Commander, D/C Jim Ponkauskas, led the effort to develop the attached process map for necessary actions based upon employee close contact with a COVID-positive individual. These steps are based upon CDC guidance, and I share them with you for your use or sharing.
I’m also attaching a document containing scenarios that you might encounter regarding quarantine timelines. Use/share as you deem appropriate.
The City also learned how important rapid contact tracing is to getting exposed individuals quarantined and away from the City workforce. State and County resources are stretched thin, understandably. Based upon our organization’s size, we are creating our own City contact tracing team to quickly respond to our employee exposures. You may want to do the same based upon your organization’s size. There is a 6-hour training course offered free by Johns Hopkins University: https://www.coursera.org/learn/covid-19-contact-tracing?edocomorp=covid-19-contact-tracing
Mark A. Freitag
City Manager
Janesville, Wisconsin
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Reminder - Wisconsin Policy Forum Salute to Local Government Awards
Deadline for nominations is August 31, 2020.
"We are again accepting nominations for our 28th annual Salute to Local Government. The Salute is a unique event that highlights and celebrates the value of public sector performance and the benefits that public sector innovation and excellence bring to taxpayers and our community as a whole. We welcome nominations for local governments and school districts across Wisconsin.
The award categories recognize outstanding performance by local governments and school districts in the areas of effective problem-solving, innovative use of data or technology, intergovernmental cooperation, and private-public cooperation. In addition, our Norman N. Gill award and Jean B. Tyler Leader of the Future award recognize individual excellence.
We have also added two new awards categories – one for governments/school districts and the other for individuals – that will recognize outstanding performance in response to issues and challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic."
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The League's Chief Executives Workshop
August 25, 26, 27 - 11:30 - 1:30 each day - Webinar
The League’s Chief Executives Workshop is coming to you!
The 2020 Chief Executives Workshop will be held in your office this year. Join us August 25-27 for three lunch and learn programs from 11:30am – 1:30pm. Each day’s workshop will consist of a guest presenter or moderated panel discussion followed by a question and answer period with the speaker or panel, which will then lead into an open-ended roundtable discussion.
Agenda
Tuesday, August 25: Never Waste a Crisis: Silver Linings within the Pandemic -- Scott Botcher, Fox Point Village Manager; Scot Simpson, River Falls City Administrator
Wednesday, August 26: State Finances, Shared Revenue, & the November Election -- Jason Stein, Research Director, Wisconsin Policy Forum; Charles Franklin, Director of the Marquette Law School Poll
Thursday, August 27: Leading Amid Conflict – Mayor Mike Palm, Baraboo; Mayor Anissa Welch, Milton; Mayor Dan Devine, West Allis. Moderated by Eric Giordano, Executive Director, Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy and Service.
$50 for all three lunch and learns. Join us for one or join us for all – the price is the same. Your registration includes a $10 certificate for either Culver’s or Kwik Trip.
Registration deadline is close of business August 24, 2020. Refunds minus $10 administrative fee will be granted for cancellations received by five business days prior to event (Aug 18.)
Thanks to our sponsor MPIC!
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Reminder - League Capitol Buzz Newsletter
August 12, 2020 - Video Service Provider Fee Form Must be Filed by August 17 to Receive State Reimbursement
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It's Quick and Easy
The 2020 Census takes just a few moments to complete.
2020 Census - #ShapeYourFuture
It's not too late to encourage your community to complete the Census. Share this link. Or click here to share the League's Facebook post to your own or your municipality's page.
Click here to take a minute to create your own graphic.
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Travel Wisconsin Tourism is looking for >
What's New in Wisconsin for 2021
"Reporters are already asking “What’s New in Wisconsin for 2021”, and we’re looking forward to sharing your latest and greatest news for consideration in their stories. This year’s online survey was designed to be quick and easy to fill out - 6 questions, 10 minutes max. Take the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WhatsNew2021 .
Specific information about the criteria we are looking for is here.
Please complete the survey by Thursday, August 27, 2020. The Travel Wisconsin team will be cataloging all the “What’s New” info to be considered in our 2021 publicity efforts and will be in touch if additional details or photos are needed.
Important note: Travel Wisconsin is looking for BIG news items, significant anniversaries, and developments related to specific topics that are already trending with national media or would have national media appeal. Smaller improvements and updates are likely better suited for your local media relations efforts. The survey will be kept open until the end of the year, so if you become aware of things that should be included after the August deadline, please continue to enter them at any time."
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Wisconsinites Encouraged To Apply For DNR Surface Water Grant Funds
Wisconsinites will soon have the opportunity to vie for funding to support projects that benefit lakes, rivers and wetlands. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) provides more than $6 million each year for surface water protection and restoration. To better understand what the surface water grant program funds, browse the recent projects highlighted in the Surface Water Grants story map.
Eligible entities must submit a pre-application with a rough project outline by Sept. 2, 2020, and final grant applications are due on Nov. 1, 2020. The new application form and the details are available online: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/aid/surfacewater.html
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PFAS Stakeholder Group Meeting
August 27, 2020
The third Stakeholder group meeting for rulemaking efforts related to PFAS surface water quality criteria will be a virtual listening session held on August 27, 2020 beginning at 9:30 am, and can be accessed via Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/93244087180.
During the previous stakeholder meeting on March 23, 2020, DNR staff presented the approach used to calculate water quality standards using the formula in NR 105, including the calculated range of potential values for PFOS and PFOA. Presentations and a recording of that meeting can be found on the NR105 rule webpage.
At the meeting on August 27, DNR would like to hear from stakeholders on recommended approaches to implementing these criteria, as well as alternative or supplemental approaches to minimizing PFAS in surface water. While continuing to develop surface water quality standards, DNR is also considering:
- How to most accurately calculate costs of compliance with PFOS/PFOA criteria. (DNR has data on Michigan’s experience with effluent levels, treatment costs and source reduction, but similar information for Wisconsin permittees is very limited);
- A statewide (multi-discharger) variance;
- Developing guidance to implement the existing narrative standard for “no toxics in toxic amounts”; and
- A technology-based effluent guideline for industrial sources.
You are invited to share your thoughts on implementation either verbally, via a PowerPoint presentation, or through informal comments. If you wish to make a presentation, please coordinate with Meghan Williams at meghanc3.williams@wisconsin.gov by August 24.
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League COVID-19 Virtual Roundtable Conference Calls
These calls are for City/Village Officials,
including mgrs./adm. & Staff Only
Tuesday, August 18 - 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Join Zoom Meeting
Or Dial 312 626 6799
Meeting ID: 943 2945 2289 Password: 990365
If you aren't on the list - Subscribe to the League's Coronavirus Newsletter, which will be sent as needed.
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This is part of the League's partnership with the UW-Madison public health messaging experts. Thanks to Gabe and Brianna for their work!
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Routes to Recovery Question?
Information on the program is posted to our website here on the "Financing Impacts" page and may be updated as warranted.
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Do you have a state trunk or connecting highway running through your downtown?
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, may allow a temporary parklet solely for outdoor dining use and as long as there are no adverse impacts to the safety, maintenance and operation of a state trunk or connecting highway. This is to assist with economic recovery since WisDOT has received requests to utilize additional space on the right-of-way to accommodate social distancing guidelines. Get the details here... Click here to share, comment and like this information on the League's Facebook page.
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We Are All In
We’re All In is an initiative based on the idea that to move forward, we need to have each other’s backs. Adjusting our behavior isn’t just the surest way to slow the spread of COVID-19, but the smartest way to get our economy back on track.
You can share your images on your own Facebook or Instagram pages with the hashtag #WeAreAllIn and encourage your businesses and other community leaders to do so. When you do that, your photo will show up on the #WeAreAllIn website. Check for photos of several Wisconsin City and Village leaders right next to photos of the Brewers.
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Reminder - Covering Wisconsin: Health Insurance Resources for you and your community
"Are your constituents losing healthcare coverage as a result of the pandemic? Covering Wisconsin has federally certified/State licensed navigators who provide free enrollment assistance for Badger Care and the federal Marketplace. Navigators also assist consumers with appeals, bills, and other issues relating to their healthcare coverage. We can be reached by calling (608) 261-1455 or (414) 270-4677."
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"We've seen the outreach of valuable information, programs, services, assistance, etc. being created and promoted to help aid everyone in this time of need." Follow them on Facebook.
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ALICE®, an acronym for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed
By United Way of Wisconsin
ALICE® is a new way of defining and understanding the struggles of households that earn above the Federal Poverty Level, but not enough to afford basic necessities.
For far too many families, the cost of living outpaces what they earn. Yet these workers perform jobs that are critical to the functioning of our local communities - educating our children, keeping us healthy, and making our quality of life possible. When funds run short, these households are forced to make impossible choices, such as deciding between quality child care or paying the rent, filling a prescription or fixing the car. These short-term decisions have long-term consequences not only for ALICE families, but for all of us. The future success of our communities is directly tied to the financial stability of these fragile ALICE households.
Find the Full Report, Interactive Dashboard, County Fact Sheet and the "Make Tough Choices" Simulator here.
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Equitable Access to COVID-Safe Spaces
Madison, WI created a “Streatery” program for restaurants and taverns to utilize new spaces, like outdoor private parking, and increase COVID-safe dining. Asheville, NC offers five ways to adapt spaces for public use, including new uses for sidewalks, parklets for businesses, and streets shared between businesses and pedestrians. Residents and businesses can apply online to adapt spaces." Excerpt from the Mayors Innovation Project Newsletter.
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Please note!
League Annual Conference Resolutions Deadline: August 17, 2020
Municipalities are invited to submit resolutions establishing League positions on legislative and other issues for consideration by the membership at the League’s Annual Conference Business Meeting on October 6.
Please submit your resolutions as a Word document by Monday, August 17 to Curt Witynski, the League’s Deputy Director at witynski@lwm-info.org They will be published online.
According to the League’s constitution, all such proposals must be published prior to the Annual Conference to be eligible for considerations.
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Workshops/Training
by date
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Planning for Housing
Tuesday, August 18 - 11:00 a.m.
MSA
Communities do — and should — have control over many aspects of their local housing development. With soaring unemployment adding to existing affordability problems and the quality of aging homes, municipal leaders are looking for answers about how, when and where to begin solving their community’s housing challenges. Charting a path forward starts with deciding housing is a priority.
Join MSA’s housing experts Matt Frater, Becky Binz and Jason Valerius on August 18, 2020, at 11 a.m. They will walk through the realities that communities are facing and guide you on how to chart your path forward. Register here.
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Adjusting Your Allowable Levy Limit
UW Extension Local Government Center
Wednesday, August 19, 2020, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
During this session, Wisconsin Department of Revenue staff will walk through the available adjustments to your allowable levy limit, including reporting requirements on the Levy Limit Worksheet. We will be focusing on Secs. D and E of the Levy Limit Worksheet. This session will not include exceeding the allowable levy limit via resolution or referendum.
Presented by Valeah Foy, Deputy Division Administrator of State and Local Finance, and Andrea Newman-Wilfong, Revenue Auditor, Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Centering Equity In Recovery
Community Resilience and Response Task Force (CRRTF)
Collaboration of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and the UW Population Health Institute
August 19
11:00am - 12:15pm
This session will focus on research-based messaging and action tools to support a Health in All Policies (HiAP) approach that centers health equity in COVID-19 response and recovery developed by the Community Resilience and Response Task Force (CRRTF).
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The League's Chief Executives Workshop
August 25, 26, 27 - 11:30 - 1:30 each day - Webinar
The League’s Chief Executives Workshop is coming to you!
The 2020 Chief Executives Workshop will be held in your office this year. Due to the pandemic, the League’s annual municipal leadership event will be held virtually. Join us August 25-27 for three lunch and learn programs from 11:30am – 1:30pm. Each day’s workshop will consist of a guest presenter or moderated panel discussion followed by a question and answer period with the speaker or panel, which will then lead into an open-ended roundtable discussion.
Agenda
Tuesday, August 25: Never Waste a Crisis: Silver Linings within the Pandemic -- Scott Botcher, Fox Point Village Manager; Scot Simpson, River Falls City Administrator
Wednesday, August 26: State Finances, Shared Revenue, & the November Election -- Jason Stein, Research Director, Wisconsin Policy Forum; Charles Franklin, Director of the Marquette Law School Poll
Thursday, August 27: Leading Amid Conflict – Mayor Mike Palm, Baraboo; Mayor Anissa Welch, Milton; Mayor Dan Devine, West Allis. Moderated by Eric Giordano, Executive Director, Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy and Service.
$50 for all three lunch and learns. Join us for one or join us for all – the price is the same. One lunch is included. Your registration includes a $10 certificate for either Culver’s or Kwik Trip.
Registration deadline is close of business August 24, 2020. Refunds minus $10 administrative fee will be granted for cancellations received by five business days prior to event (Aug 18.)
Thanks to our sponsor MPIC!
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July 30 | Neighborhood Revitalization Through Food Systems Finance
Sept 29 | Financing Food Systems Entrepreneurs
Council of Development Finance Agency (CDFA) is providing a free online series to advance opportunities and leverage capital financing that scale local and regional food systems, increase access to better food, and create new living wage jobs in communities across the country.
Lead Service Line (LSL) Replacement Funding Training
Wisconsin DNR, DOA, and PSC
You are invited to join us for an online webinar to discuss the details of a new private lead service line (LSL) replacement funding program. The topics that will be discussed include: the application, timeline, allocation, federal requirements, ordinances, and eligible costs.
The same virtual workshop will be offered twice:
1st Webinar Date: September 2, 2020 Time: 9:30 AM-12:30 PM CDT
2nd Webinar Date: September 24, 2020 Time: 1:00 PM-4:00 PM CDT
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Avoiding Common Mistakes
September 10 - 9:00 - 4:00 with an hour break for lunch - Webinar
Attendance is free for League members insured by LWMMI; for League members not insured by LWMMI, the League has reduced its usual one-day training registration fee to $50.
What will you learn?
These sessions will focus on scenarios inspired by real-life examples to illustrate how controversial decisions, compounded by poor municipal governance, can quickly spin out of control.
League attorneys, Claire Silverman and Maria Davis, will provide an overview of the legal framework governing body members must use when making decisions and explore how deviating from that framework can expose municipalities to liability, damage the municipality’s reputation, and hijack the municipal agenda.
On the HR side of things, Lisa Bergersen of EngageHR Law, LLC will help attendees navigate a number of human resources and employment law compliance issues that come up with some frequency including wage and hour, harassment/discrimination/bullying, family and medical leave laws, and social media. Lisa will also cover best practices in areas such as handbooks, workplace safety, counseling/discipline/terminations, and documentation. Details and registration
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You don't want to miss!
The League's Local Gov 101
September 11 - Webinar
Agenda:
• Organization & Powers of Cities and Villages
• Recognizing and Avoiding Conflicts of Interest
• Budgeting & Financial Oversight
• Procedures for Local Government Meetings
• Managing Public Works Activities
Thanks to our sponsors!
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Water Affordability Academy
Mayor's Innovation Project
A Digital Workshop for Public Water Utility Leaders
Thursday, September 17, 24; October 1, 8, and 15
2-3:30 EST, 1-2:30 CST
This 5-part series will help city and public utility leaders identify, assess, and establish a path forward on water affordability in your community. Spots are limited - priority will be given to member cities.
Leading for Racial Equity
UW-Madison Continuing Education
Transform your commitment to racial equity into anti‑racist leadership in this new 3‑part series.
Session 1: Becoming an Anti-Racist Organization, Sept. 18
Session 2: Using Racial Equity Decision and Policy Tools, Oct. 16
Session 3: Anti-Racist Workforce Development, Nov. 20
Live online • $365 per session; gov't/nonprofit $255 per session
In Session 1: Becoming an Anti-Racist Organization, learn the key features of an anti‑racist organization, assess the readiness of your organization to move toward anti‑racism, and plan next steps. Open to anyone with an intermediate understanding of racial equity who is ready to impact their organization's programs, practices, policies, and decisions.
In Session 2: Using Racial Equity Decision and Policy Tools, learn how racial equity decision tools are used to hardwire equity strategies in budget allocations, program and policy decisions. Apply an equity-focused analysis to a current project and leave with feedback on how to leverage the project for social justice and racial equity. Session 1 recommended but not required.
In Session 3: Anti‑Racist Workforce Development, explore whiteness in the workplace, understand racist organizational detours and interrupt institutional barriers to recruit, hire and retain racially diverse staff. All are welcome, although experience or interest in human resources and/or supervising and managing are a plus.
September 8
Emerging Technologies – Web conference
September/October
Energy Utility Basics 2020 – Multi-day web conference
October 21
Water Affordability – Web conference
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The League’s 122nd Annual Conference will be a series of Small In-Person Regional and Virtual Events.
October 6-8 & 13-15
We are busy working out all the details -- including locations for the small, in-person events, valuable workshops, drawings for prizes and a virtual walk/run - WEA Trust is currently working on the t-shirt design. (Yes, you read that right.) We will be updating our website soon! Check back.
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#ELGL Local Government Conference
October - Virtual
#ELGL20: Local Gov Oktoberfest is the Engaging Local Government Leaders (ELGL) network's annual conference. Traditionally, ELGL's conference is hosted in cities around the United States. In 2020, the conference will be offered virtually during the month of October.
2020 Wisconsin Alcohol Policy Seminar Schedule
October 8
Registration opens August 15
The Wisconsin Alcohol Policy Seminar is the only event in the state focused exclusively on the evidence-based policies and practices that prevent or reduce the alcohol-related harms at the population level.
Alcohol regulation and enforcement is primarily a municipal responsibility in Wisconsin. The Seminar features 12 workshops and two general sessions on topics relevant for local officials, law enforcement, public health, and coalition leaders. Seminar workshops range from broad overviews to implementation guidance on policies that address Wisconsin's most pressing alcohol issues.
ONGOING
Board of Review - Updated to Reflect Changes due to Covid-19
UW-Extension Local Government Center
The 2020 BOR training video will provide the opportunity to select one of two BOR training courses which are:
Conducting the First-Meeting of Board of Review, or Conducting a Board of Review Hearing
Each video comes with information materials, including the exam and affidavit that must be filed with the clerk to meet the certified training required by Wisconsin law. Only one video training course is required, but you may choose to use both.
Because each course contains updated and revised content, prior BOR videos or materials may not be used to meet the 2020 Board of Review training requirement.
Reviewers and past participants agree: seeing how to do it is better than just lecturing about it.
Again, watching and completing the exam for only one video course is required for certification. For information, visit the website
Claire Silverman, Legal Counsel, League of Wisconsin Municipalities
Published in the May 2020 The Municipality magazine.
DOR FAQs on TID Joint Review Boards holding virtual meetings are here.
UW-Madison Continuing Studies LEADERSHIP, MANAGEMENT, AND WORKPLACE SKILLS
August 19 Professional Writing: Elements of Effective Workplace Communication
Sept. 23 & 30 Embracing Conflict: A Systems Approach for Leaders and Teams
Sept. 24 Understanding and Promoting Ethical Behavior
Sept. 29 Listening for a Change: Skills for Inclusivity
Oct. 1 Problem Analysis and Problem Solving
Details of all programs including the Public Manager Program at UW-Madison, Continuing Studies which are Ongoing is here
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Reminder - Small Town America Civic Volunteer Award
If you are a community of 5,000 or under, your chief elected official can nominate a local volunteer for the award. The top 100 nominees will receive 12 months of complimentary web services and a new website, and three winners will receive cash for their communities ($5-$10k). The deadline for nominations is August 15th. Please consider nominating someone locally using the form here
Boost your municipal connections on the League's LinkedIn page!
Comment on this post on the League's LinkedIn page to connect with people working in municipalities or interested in municipal issues. Once you've commented, take a look at the other people that have commented and reach out to connect with them.
The League's strength is the community we've created and since LinkedIn is a great way to connect, we can use LinkedIn as a tool to enhance those connections.
Reminder - Applications are now being accepted for the next
Wisconsin Poet Laureate
The Wisconsin Academy, in partnership with the Wisconsin Poet Laureate Commission, seeks applications for the 2021–2022 Wisconsin Poet Laureate. Beginning July 1, 2020, applications are welcome from individual poets who are seeking the position. Applications may also be submitted by a person who is nominating a poet for the position of Poet Laureate. For either, a complete application package must be sent via e-mail to the Wisconsin Poet Laureate Commission as one e-mail attachment no later than September 1, 2020. Details here.
NLC’s Race, Equity, And Leadership (REAL) initiative serves to strengthen local leaders’ knowledge and capacity to eliminate racial disparities, heal racial divisions, and build more equitable communities. Through training and online resources, REAL helps NLC members build safe places where people from all racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds thrive socially, economically, academically and physically. Resources are here
21st Century Policing Resources
Mayor's Innovation Project
The National Civic League focuses much of its work on equity, and racial equity in particular. This work extends from our core mission: The mission of the National Civic League is to advance civic engagement to create equitable, thriving communities.
Rural Realities
Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Podcast
Given the ongoing challenges facing the agriculture industry – low prices, uncertain markets, trade uncertainty, and inclement weather - it’s no surprise that farmers and farm families are experiencing more stress. “Rural Realities” focuses on helping farmers tap into their resilient nature by presenting advice from experts that can help reduce stress, improve a farm’s financial situation, implement good farm family communication skills, and more. Listen here.
Got Swifts? Survey Seeks To Identify Chimneys Providing Bird Habitat
Pilot Project Aims To Help Owners Pay For Repairs To Preserve Habitat
DNR
Brick chimneys may be a key component to conserving acrobatic, fast-flying chimney swifts, so Wisconsin residential and commercial property owners are being asked to report if their chimneys are currently being used by swifts through a survey which can be found here.
Answers to the online survey conducted by the Wisconsin Chimney Swift Working Group will help shape a pilot project aimed at helping owners pay for chimney repairs, so they are more likely to keep the structures. DNR Natural Heritage Conservation Program biologists are part of the working group.
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The League takes our role as a convener of the state dialog on racial equity seriously. From the columns by Milwaukee Common Council President Cavalier Johnson and Reggie Jackson to Eric Giordano's "I am White and Privileged. Now What?" and Waukesha Mayor Shawn Reilly's statement, we ask that you read this issue. Join us for the Chief Executive Workshops session on Racial Equity or the Annual Conference Workshop or convene your community, What role does local government and do you, as a leader in local government, have in moving toward racial equity?
Note - if you work for a League member municipality and previously shared a magazine with colleagues but would now like your own, please send an email with your mailing address to league@lwm-info.org There is no additional cost.
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Funding
by date & many ongoing
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Reminder - Housing Grant Program competition
The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) and the WHEDA Foundation, Inc. make available annually grant funds through the Housing Grant Program competition. The Program's mission is to assist in the improvement of the state's housing for special needs populations such as veterans, physically impaired or disabled persons, domestic abuse victims, runaways, homeless persons, and more.
A total of $1,040,000 will be awarded for the 2020 cycle with awards to be announced in December. The grants are for physical improvements such as rehabilitation, accessibility features and new construction. Since the inception of the Housing Grant Program in 1985, the Foundation has awarded close to $25 million dollars to help communities improve housing for those in need.
For application materials and to apply, visit: https://www.wheda.com/Housing-Grant-Program/ On this page you will also find a list of past award winners and a list of projects that were completed with funds granted. Applications are due by August 21st, 2020 with announcements being made in late December.
Lead Service Line (LSL) Replacement Funding Training
Wisconsin DNR, DOA, and PSC
You are invited to join us for an online webinar to discuss the details of a new private lead service line (LSL) replacement funding program. The topics that will be discussed include: the application, timeline, allocation, federal requirements, ordinances, and eligible costs.
The same virtual workshop will be offered twice:
1st Webinar Date: September 2, 2020 Time: 9:30 AM-12:30 PM CDT
2nd Webinar Date: September 24, 2020 Time: 1:00 PM-4:00 PM CDT
FCC
The Federal Communications Commission provides funding to bring high-speed, fixed broadband service to rural homes and small businesses that lack access. Application Deadline: October 22, 2020
EPA Funding for Water Projects
Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA)
This year’s notice of funding availability prioritizes construction-ready projects in three areas: updating aging infrastructure; reducing exposure to lead and addressing emerging contaminants; and water reuse and recycling. The 2020 notice of funding availability builds upon the existing, active pipeline of WIFIA projects, which includes 49 projects in 19 states and D.C. For the first time, the agency will evaluate submitted projects using additional criteria that were developed to help clarify project and federal budgetary considerations. EPA will accept letters of interest from prospective WIFIA borrowers for 90 days after publication in the Federal Register.
State infrastructure financing authority WIFIA (SWIFIA)
This new program, which was authorized by Congress as part of the America’s Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA) of 2018, offers low-interest loans to state water infrastructure programs (e.g., the State Revolving Funds) that then help finance needed water infrastructure projects in local communities. This round of funding will provide SWIFIA borrowers up to $1 billion to support $2 billion in water infrastructure projects. EPA will accept letters of interest from state water infrastructure programs for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. More information here.
USDA
USDA is making available up to $1 billion in loan guarantees to help rural businesses meet their working capital needs during the coronavirus pandemic. Additionally, agricultural producers that are not eligible for USDA Farm Service Agency loans may receive funding under USDA B&I CARES Act Program provisions included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Application Deadline: September 15, 2021, or until funds are expended.
FCC
The Federal Communications Commission provides funding to bring high-speed, fixed broadband service to rural homes and small businesses that lack access. Application Deadline: October 22, 2020
USDA
Also known as the Section 504 Home Repair program, this provides loans to very-low-income homeowners to repair, improve or modernize their homes or grants to elderly very-low-income homeowners to remove health and safety hazards. Ongoing
USDA
The application window for the second round of USDA’s ReConnect Pilot Program opened January 31, 2020.
These funds will enable the federal government to continue to partner with the private sector and rural communities to build modern broadband infrastructure in areas with insufficient internet service. Insufficient service is defined as connection speeds of less than 10 megabits per second download and 1 megabit per second upload. ReConnect funding applications can be submitted at www.usda.gov/reconnect.
Dam removal grant applications are being accepted and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until the funding is depleted. This grant program provides 100% reimbursement up to a maximum award of $50,000. Eligible applicants include any Wisconsin City, Town, Village, County, Tribe, public inland Lake Protection and Rehabilitation district or any other dam owner. Grant application materials are available on the DNR's Dam Removal Grant Program web page: https://dnr.wi.gov/Aid/DamRemoval.html
Rural Feasibility Study Grant Program
Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America
To fund feasibility studies that may result in economic development and improved community assets for rural areas in Compeer’s 144-county territory in Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Through this grant program we are helping to ensure a strong future in rural America. Eligible feasibility studies may include:
- Market research
- Cost analysis
- Financial projections
- Assessment of suitable facilities, equipment, etc.
- Development of a business plan
Location – project must be located in Compeer’s 144-county territory in Minnesota, Illinois or Wisconsin.
Eligible Applicants - Non-profit organizations serving rural areas, educational institutions, and state, county, local or tribal governments are eligible to apply.
Applications will be accepted until all funds are awarded. Learn more
Grants and cooperative agreements made under these programs are designed to leverage existing regional assets and support the implementation of economic development strategies that advance new ideas and creative approaches to advance economic prosperity in distressed communities.
Location: Nationwide
Applications accepted on an ongoing basis
U.S. Economic Development Administration assistance helps communities/regions devise and implement long-term economic recovery strategies. Application Deadline: Ongoing
Wisconsin Dept of Tourism Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) Grant Program offers funding and guidance to make a promotion or event come to fruition. The grant reimburses Wisconsin non-profit organizations for qualified advertising costs. There are five categories of JEM grants with various deadlines. More information here.
USDA Rural Development offers direct home loans for very-low- and low-income applicants. Application Deadline: Ongoing
Funds available to nonprofit organizations to help very-low- and low-income families build their own rural homes. Application Deadline: Ongoing
Loans help very-low-income homeowners to repair, improve or modernize their homes. Grants help elderly very-low-income homeowners to remove health and safety hazards. Application Deadline: Ongoing
USDA Rural Development program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal and storm water drainage to households and businesses in eligible rural areas. Application Deadline: Ongoing
Economic Development Administration (EDA) supports development in economically distressed areas by fostering job creation and attracting private investments under their Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) Programs which have included past funding awards for water/wastewater projects and road infrastructure projects. Application Deadline: Ongoing
USDA Rural Development’s Rural Utilities Services offers this program to provide financing for the construction, maintenance, improvement and expansion of telephone service and broadband in rural areas. Application Deadline: Ongoing
USDA Rural Development provides loans to intermediaries to establish revolving loan funds and to provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs. Application Deadline: Ongoing
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Census
National League of Cities Census Toolkit with information including posters that you can download and customize for your community.
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation
Live and recorded video Q&A with Sec. Hughes, guidelines, podcasts and more for you to share with your business community.
WIDNR Business Support Services
for you to share with your Businesses
Enviro-Check – a proactive program enables participants to assess their operation’s environmental impact while also limiting their liability.
Green Tier – recognizes businesses that go above and beyond environmental regulations and helps them get even better.
Want to share these resources for small businesses on your website, social media or in a newsletter? The DNR has created the resources for you to do that here.
DNR Environmental Loans Newsletter
The Environmental Loans staff publish the electronic newsletter to alert customers of upcoming Clean Water Fund Program (CWFP) and Safe Drinking Water Loan Program (SDWLP) deadlines; to highlight program changes and state/federal regulation changes; and to provide assistance on topics that need clarification. Read and subscribe
Wisconsin’s Local Redistricting Group
These recorded presentations and workshops provide information about the US Census and the relevant laws, processes, and principles of local redistricting in Wisconsin. You will also find training materials on the use of the local redistricting software that will be used in Wisconsin in 2021 called: “WISE-LR”. Details here.
Women Mayors’ Network
Mayor's Innovation Project
We started the Women Mayors’ Network, in partnership with Equity Agenda, to create a space for women mayors to support each other and address issues of sexism affecting their leadership. Are you a woman-identified mayor interested in joining? Contact us.
CDC Water Worker Website
Quick Links to COVID-19 Resources Related to Rural Infrastructure:
Covid-19: WE CAN GO THE DISTANCE TOGETHER: 10 WAYS YOU CAN DO YOUR PART
The University of Wisconsin-Madison Communication Collaborative for COVID-19 Response has developed 10 essential steps to limit the spread of COVID-19. They reflect the overall need for maintaining a physical distance from each other, washing you hands and staying home, among others: Read the article...
This Aspen Institute summarizes how Rural Development Hubs, build a stronger rural economy and using economic development practices that advance equity, health and prosperity. (11/2019)
The Government Accountability Office provides an overview of five alternative drinking water systems used by communities with fewer than 500 people. It examines the barriers to implementing new systems and technologies. It also identifies four federal funding systems that support technical assistance and training for small drinking water systems serving communities of fewer than 10,000. (1/2020)
e2 Entrepreneurial Ecosystems resource on the current state of economic development funding to build and retain an effective entrepreneurial ecosystem. (1/2020)
From Seed to Root
Early-Stage Strategies for Community Wealth Building
Mayors Innovation Project
Cities across the country, varying in size, economic health, and demographics are all contending with the problem of the growing wealth gap. One way that cities can make a difference is by shifting their economic growth models to center on building community wealth. This brief profiles three cities, Nashville, Detroit, and Lafayette, LA, on the unique ways that leaders in these cities are building community wealth and their local democratic systems. In addition to the detailed narratives of projects in each city, the brief offers actionable ways to consider community wealth building in your own city.
City leaders, including mayors, are this brief’s intended audience. However, as highlighted in each example, this work requires multiple actors, including community organizers and developers. This brief is useful to anyone committed to equitable economic development in their community. Read it here...
Saltwise
Once salt is in the environment it doesn’t go away. It ends up in our lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands, putting our aquatic life at risk and endangering our freshwater resources. Our local lakes, waterways, groundwater and soil have been absorbing virtually all of the salt spread in the city for more than six decades. Chloride from salt is toxic to small aquatic life and degrades the natural eco-system of our lakes. Once salt is in our waterways, it does not break down – it’s here to stay. It only takes 1 teaspoon of salt to permanently pollute 5 gallons of water to a level that is toxic to freshwater ecosystems. More information...
USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Program offers a resource guide highlighting opportunities to support the modernization of transportation infrastructure elements in rural communities--the very bedrock from which growth springs in America’s rural towns and communities.
Alternative Fuels Data Center
The U.S. Department of Energy's Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) provides a wealth of information and data on alternative and renewable fuels, advanced vehicles, fuel-saving strategies and emerging transportation technologies. The site features a number of interactive tools, calculators and mapping applications to aid in the implementation of these fuels, vehicles and strategies. The AFDC functions as a dynamic online hub, enabling thousands of stakeholders in the transportation system to interact with one another. The U.S. DOE released a fact sheet with details on the AFDC. Click here to learn more!
Aging water infrastructure systems, climate change, and the general rising cost of urban living mean that access to clean and affordable water is becoming a greater challenge.
Interactive Climate and Health Toolkits
WI Dept. of Health Services
DHS created toolkits to help local governments, local health departments, and citizens in Wisconsin prepare for and respond to different weather-related emergencies. DHS also created one-page fact sheets to accompany each toolkit, which are intended for a general audience.
These toolkits and fact sheets include background information, practical response strategies, and communication tools (such as media releases, talking points, definitions, and useful reference materials). General information here.
Nelson Issue Brief
The Nelson Institute Issue Brief summarizes the latest scholarship from UW-Madison on key environmental issues. Read it here.
Community Facilities (CF) Direct Loan Program
Guidebook for Applicants
USDA Rural Development released a new guidebook to help applicants apply for a Community Facilities (CF) Direct Loan Program. This guide outlines the application process, financial feasibility requirements, construction and closing of an essential community facility for small towns and rural areas. General Information here.
Resources for Storm-Damaged Trees
Did your community experience damage from the storms that went through the state recently? You may find these resources handy: More information here.
View the diversity of challenges and opportunities across America's counties. View indicators about people, jobs, income, veterans, and county types. The atlas has been updated to include American Community Survey data for 2013-17 and poverty rates from the Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates for 2017.
NTIA has developed a new searchable database of 50 federal broadband programs, spanning a dozen federal agencies with billions of dollars for broadband grants, loans and other resources.
Be prepared! FEMA offers publication filled with excellent resources and offers guidance to best secure and manage funding.
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League Handbooks
The following Handbooks are now available as a PDF at a reduced price for email delivery.
- Handbook for Wisconsin Municipal Officials - PDF Available!
- Handbook for Wisconsin Police and Fire Commissioners - Completely updated in Jan. 2019. PDF Available!
- Municipal Licensing and Regulation of Alcohol Beverages - Completely updated in Sept. 2019. PDF Available!
Physical PRINT copies of ALL Handbooks are also still available but on a delayed weekly shipping basis. You can order Handbooks online here
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Gail Sumi | League of Wisconsin Municipalities | 608.267.2380 | gsumi@lwm-info.org
www.lwm-info.org
SUBSCRIBE to the League’s Legislative Bulletin, Capitol Buzz and E-Newsletter – sign up here.
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