Coalition for Eco-Industrial Development

Ashland Agriculture Research Station Maintenance Funding

Purchase of Development Rights Program

Renewable Energy

Coalition for Eco-Industrial Development

Additional Revolving Loan Funds for Region

Department of Commerce Program Changes

Sawyer County Economic Development

Sustainable Tourism Business Workshop 2008

Coalition for Eco-Industrial Development

Illegalization of Transporting Prohibited Aquatic Invasive Species

Ballast Water Research Progress Report

Development of the North Country Scenic Trail

Increase Boat Inspections at Great Lakes Boat Landings

Increase the Number of Professional Field Staff in NW WI

Pattison State Park Project

Renewable Energy

Research Facility at the US Geological Survey Vessel Dock Site in Ashland

Development of the North Country Scenic Trail

Sustainable Tourism Business Workshop

Integration of Truck, Rail, and Lake Transportation

Madeline Island Road Improvements

Paving of Road Access to the Northern WI Veteran's Memorial Cemetery

Rail Road Crossing Safety Funding

Rural Public Transportation

US Highway 2 Expansion

US Highway 2 & 13 Intersection Safety

US Highway 13 Passing Lanes

US Highway 53 Safety Team

US Highway 63 Reconstruction within the City of Spooner

Weather Indicator Signs for WI US Highway 53 in Superior Entering the Blatnik Bridge

Northwest Wisconsin Homeless Veterans

Northwest Wisconsin Veteran Long Term Health Care

Paving of Road Access to the Northern WI Veteran's Memorial Cemetery

Veterans Nursing Home in Douglas County

Prevailing Wage

Sustainability of the Crex Meadows Youth Conservation Camp

Railroad Crossing Safety Funding

Increase the Number of Professional Field Staff in NW WI

University of WI-Extension Criminal Justice Specialists

Wisconsin Public Television
 

City Center Project

HDC Project at East Junior High School Site

New York Building

Superior Paint the Town

Visitable Housing

ACT 420 Revisions

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the Legislature makes amendments to the recently passed Library Organization and Funding Bill (Act 420). Specifically: 1. Make library reimbursements exempt from the levy cap. 2. Phase in reimbursements over three years using a 33%, 66% and 100% reimbursement formula. Reasons for Request:  Act 420 provides for adjacent counties to be reimbursed for out of county library usage. Up until this point inter-county library reimbursements were not mandated. The impact of this law will be to increase our out of district county disbursements of library aid to specific libraries and in some cases reduce library aid to other libraries. In Northwest Wisconsin the impact will vary between $5,000 and $75,000. In those counties that contribute at the 70% level this will be an increase in county payments. In counties that contribute above the 70% rate, this may result in a decrease in current library contributions in order to comply with current levy limits in addition to significant increases in library payments overall. In Bayfield County the 2% levy limit provided for an additional $158,000 in tax levy. If the county were to maintain funding of existing libraries and fund other libraries the additional payment would be nearly $75,000 or 50% of the current cap. Our request is two fold: 1. Remove library funding from the levy cap. 2. Phase in the new legislation over a three year term, one third each year.

Access to Dental Care

Access to dental care for low income uninsured and public program residents is severely limited in Douglas County and the surrounding area. Background: Shortage of dentists, historically low Medicaid payments, and few safety net providers has been the situation in Northwestern Wisconsin for many years. The existing dental care delivery system works for the majority of the population, but is failing to meet the needs of low income or uninsured individuals in this state. Private dental practices and group practices are filled to capacity with patients who are insured or who are able to pay out-of-pocket for the services they obtain. The current system of dental delivery is ill-equipped to provide the services necessary for populations that have historically lacked access to care. The medically underserved, when they do find a dental access point, are often in need of time-consuming and costly restorative care, and are often in need of enabling services such as interpretation services, transportation, and case management. Providers who work with these populations have an acute awareness and sensitivity to the socioeconomic and cultural barriers that these folks experience in daily life and in obtaining appropriate and ongoing health care. In late 2005 the Lake Superior Community Health Center opened a dental clinic specifically to serve low income, public program and uninsured residents of the area. This dental clinic has a current capacity of approximately 480 dental visits per month. While an excellent addition to our area, the clinic does not have sufficient capacity to meet the level of need in the area for dental access. Ways to expand dental access still are critical in Northwestern Wisconsin. Proposed Action: The State of Wisconsin needs to attract and retain more dentists, many of whom would gladly work in Health Centers, helping the underserved with their oral health needs. The state Legislature should enact legislation in 2007 that would: • Recognize the valid licenses earned by dentists who come from other states or countries; • Recognize all regional dental exams so that trained dentists can begin working in Wisconsin soon and easier; • Allow foreign-trained dentists to be licensed in Wisconsin to take advantage of the skill and expertise earned by the global workforce; • Create a tuition subsidy for in-state students who desire to treat underserved populations and Medicaid patients for a time after graduation; and • Expand the scope of practice for dental hygienists so they can better treat Health Center patients. • Expand funding to Community Health Centers specifically targeted to dental access expansion • Provide ongoing state funding subsidy to Community Health Centers to help support sliding fee dental care for low income uninsured residents • Support Governor Doyle’s initiatives to expand dental access.   Specifically: 1. Governor Doyle’s request to spend almost $4 million of the State’s newly received federal income augmentation funds into one-time competitive grants to support dental access initiatives. 2. BadgerCare Plus budget proposal, in which the Governor is proposing to spend $8.8 million to support creative approaches and solutions to the dental crisis for low-income and underserved populations, with a particular focus on children.

Additional Revolving Loan Funds for Region

The Citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the Department of Commerce agree to maintain a balance of not less than $1,000,000 in the NW Regional Loan Funds Program. Background: • The Regional Revolving Loan fund in Northwest Wisconsin is the first in the state. The Regional program has seven counties participating. Each county contributed their funds. The counties contributions totaled $5,000,000. • Cash on hand available for lending was $2.3 million. Over the past 5 months the Regional Loan Fund has lent out over $1.1 million or nearly 50% of the balance. This has met and exceeded expectations of both the Regional Board and the Department of Commerce. • As additional loans are in the works and in anticipation of future business development the fund would like to have assurances that adequate balances to provide future loans will be available. • Our request is for the Department of Commerce to guarantee a minimum of $1,000,000 to be provided for regional loans. This funding minimum would go into effect whenever Regional Fund balances were projected to drop below $750,000 or 15% of total funds.

Ashland Agriculture Research Station Maintenance Funding

The Citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) support the maintenance of land and buildings at the Ashland Agriculture Research Facility in Bayfield County through appropriation of $50,000. These funds will be used to hire a maintenance person, to lease or purchase equipment and to provide needed supplies to maintain and prevent deterioration of the buildings and grounds. This maintenance will enable Ashland and Bayfield Counties to establish a plan for restoration of the research functions through a coalition of individuals and organizations representing the agro-forestry sector. Background: • The Agricultural Station has provided important support for the agriculture sector NW Wisconsin economy for nearly 100 years. • Decline in markets for agricultural products including dairy has reduced the agriculture sector of the NW Wisconsin economy to a fraction of what it once was. • The College of Agriculture and Life Science at UW-Madison has decided to no longer utilize the Station for future research efforts. • The University has exercised a quit claim transferring the land and buildings to custody of Ashland and Bayfield Counties. • Both Ashland and Bayfield Counties have agreed to accept the land but are not positioned financially to provide an appropriation to maintain the property. • Research is needed to rebuild potential economic uses for agriculture and forest land in our area of Wisconsin. • A coalition involving several dozen individuals and several organizations have actively supported county acquisition of the Station land and buildings in order to restore a research, education and outreach function at the site.

Assistive Technology

The Citizens of Northwest Wisconsin wish to request that the Department of Health and Family Services continue to support AT options that enhance the independence of People with Disabilities. The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin recognize the importance of Assistive Technology in allowing citizens to gain and maintain independence and realize the American dream. A long time supporter of WisTech, Wisloan, Telework, Agrability and other initiatives we implore the state to embrace the reauthorization of the Assistive Technology Act with zeal. Assistive Technology represents freedom for consumers and cost savings for communities especially with the advent of LTC redesign. Possible Action:  Independent Living Center’s Assistive Technology programs are a vital resource. The under funded program consistently has increased demand, especially with the advent of LTC redesign. Support the initiatives that will enable ILC’s to have 1 FTE position devoted to Assistive Technology.

Ballast Water Research Progress Report

City Center Project

Department of Commerce Program Changes

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that an avenue for public input as part of the process of changes to Department of Commerce programs be allowed so that anyone affected by these changes may have the opportunity to comment before the changes are implemented. Over the course of time, changes to programs and policies are necessary to ensure that the programs remain efficient, and meet the goals and objectives of the program. This is true of the programs administered by the Department of Commerce. These changes are implemented with no solicited response from organizations or agencies, which are affected by these changes. Therefore we are asking an avenue for public input as part of the process of changes to Department of Commerce programs, to allow anyone affected by these changes to comment before the changes are implemented. In the past, anyone affected by these changes and the people in the field have had little or no input into the changes implemented by the Department of Commerce. Due to the diversity of economic development and the diversity of regions within the State of Wisconsin, no single approach to economic development will work statewide. The programs that the Economic Development professionals work with have to be flexible to be able to work in different parts of the State. What works in Madison, does not always work in Northwest Wisconsin. We are only asking that we have some input prior to any changes that take place. If a program is not working, ask the people in the field why. Lets work together to make the State of Wisconsin a better place to do business.

Development of the North Country National Scenic Trail

Request: Assistance from the State of Wisconsin for development of the North Country National Scenic Trail across northern Wisconsin. Reason for Request: The North Country Trail Association is seeking assistance from the State of Wisconsin for development of the North Country National Scenic Trail across northern Wisconsin. The North Country National Scenic Trail was authorized by Congress in 1980 and is one of eight national scenic trails. It is a long distance hiking trail similar to the famed Appalachian Trail, but crossing the northern tier of states from New York to North Dakota. The trail will be 4,600 miles long when completed; 1,700 miles are currently certified by the National Park Service. The Park Service administers the seven state trail from an office in Madison, Wisconsin. In Wisconsin, 117 miles of trail are complete out of a future total of 220 miles. The first section of the North Country Trail was completed in the Chequamegon National Forest in the 1960s. Trail development was dormant for many years, but was revived in the mid-90s through the efforts of the Park Service and the North Country Trail Association, the supporting citizen group. There are now North Country Trail Association chapters in the Hurley, Mellen, and Douglas County areas. Volunteers from these chapters have built 40 miles of trail over the past six years. Wisconsin is home to two National Scenic Trails. The State of Wisconsin is currently supporting development and promotion of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail through an annual $75,000 allocation (Chapter 23.295, Wisconsin Statutes). We propose comparable funding for the North Country National Scenic Trail to benefit northern Wisconsin recreation, tourism, and conservation.

Funding for Transportation in NW WI Public Schools

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request assistance in funding or alternative funding sources for transportation services in our public schools. This issue is especially vital to the small, rural schools found throughout Northwest Wisconsin. Situation Statement: • State pupil transportation aid is based on a flat rate formula and determined under the provision of s.121.58, Wis. Stats. School districts that furnish transportation to and from public and nonpublic schools are entitled to receive state aid at the following rates: Distance in Miles Regular Year Summer School less than 2 miles (hazardous area) $12/pupil -- 2-5 miles $30/pupil $4/pupil over 5 up to 8 miles $45/pupil $6/pupil over 8 up to 12 miles $82/pupil $6/pupil over 12 miles $150/pupil $6/pupil Distances are measured from the pupil's residence to the school attended; following the shortest commonly traveled route. Half payment is made for pupils enrolled and transported less than 91 days (regular year) or 16 days (summer school). • The flat rate formula can fail to recognize cost variations resulting from density, road conditions, prevailing wages, frequency of stops, traffic congestion, and fuel prices. Because variables are not as clearly accounted for, such formulas tend to underfund the smallest districts and large urban districts. While a fixed rate system is simple to calculate and administer (for both the state and school districts), in most cases, it results in larger differences between formula funding and actual transportation costs. • Nearly all school districts in Northwest Wisconsin are small, sparsely populated, and face transportation challenges. Those shrinking transportation dollars have forced school districts to discontinue afterschool activity busing, busing for extra-curricular activities, and alter bus routes. Every county in Northwest Wisconsin, save one, has over 40% of their youth eligible for free and reduced lunches. Our communities suffer from lower incomes when compared to other areas of the state and combined with already high property taxes, it is virtually impossible to provide enough local tax revenue for our schools. How can students work with the Department of Public Instruction to advocate for some type of transportation funding assistance or resources to reverse this trend in the schools of Northwest Wisconsin?

Funding for School Liaison Officers in NW WI Public Schools

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request assistance in funding for School Liaison Officer positions in our public schools. This would be a pilot program for the State of Wisconsin to develop a dedicated effort to combine Federal and State resources into an ongoing and effective program. Background:  Federal funding has been reduced significantly for this much needed COPS in School program. Our communities suffer from lower incomes when compared to many other areas of WI. Combined with already high property taxes in Northwest Wisconsin this makes it virtually impossible to provide enough local tax revenue for School Liaison Officers on an ongoing basis. Whether referred to as a School Liaison Officer, COPS in School Officer or a School Resource Officer, these positions are necessary in order to provide a safe and high quality education for our 21st Century children. When we look at school violence in our country, we understand that providing all the tools for prevention most certainly be more beneficial than having a tragic episode. School Liaison Officers: • Provide a community oriented policing philosophy. • Help develop and implement programs aimed at reducing truancy, drug, alcohol, and tobacco use and violence. • Serve as law enforcement, law-related educators, problem solvers, and as a community liaison. • Teach classes in crime prevention, substance abuse awareness and gang resistance. • And also help develop school policies that address criminal activity and school safety. In Bayfield, we have seen a significant reduction in unacceptable behavior since instituting our School Liaison Officer position in 1999, although we are not yet where we would like to be. There is tremendous support from parents and staff to continue this worthwhile program in the Bayfield Schools.

HDC Project at East Junior High School Site

Human Services Transportation

Transportation is identified as a fundamental component of service under the new long term care management scheme currently under considerations by our region’s nine-county consortium. Yet many rural residents here have access only to volunteer driver transportation which often doesn’t provide lift-equipped vehicles necessary for people with disabilities. In addition, the recently completed state-wide transportation provider survey shows only a small number of specialized transportation providers for Northwest Wisconsin. Many of these will not make short trips, even to medical facilities. During the summer of 2006 the Wisconsin DOT had Northwest Regional Planning bring together transportation stakeholders for each of 10 Northwest Wisconsin counties to develop Public Transit Human Services Transportation Coordination Plans. The county plans agree strongly that: • Better access to transportation will result if transportation programs are able to pool resources and coordinate services, • Rider specific eligibility requirements and funding make coordination difficult to accomplish. DHFS can provide significant leadership for change to address these issues: • maximize flexibility for both riders and providers, fast-track all certifications, and streamline eligibility to encourage new and expanded transportation capacity to support a viable long-term-care infrastructure • maximize department support for regional (multi-county, multi-provider) coordination through the inter-agency coordinating council on transportation • evaluate the impact of MA transportation rate structures on a regional basis

Illegalization of Transporting Prohibited Aquatic Invasive Species

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request to make it unlawful to transport on public roads, except to a nearby cleaning station, prohibited aquatic invasive species attached to a recreational boat, boat trailer or other recreational watercraft in Wisconsin; and to make it unlawful to launch a recreational boat, boat trailer or other recreational watercraft with attached prohibited aquatic invasive species in all navigable waters in Wisconsin. Background:  Lake Superior and a large number of the state’s inland lakes are located in northwestern Wisconsin and represent a critical element to the lifestyle and economy of the region. These water resources are very crucial to the area’s economy, providing valuable property to lakeshore owners, a significant property tax revenue source for local governments, and an outstanding recreational resource for boating, fishing, swimming and other water-related recreational activities. The environmental quality and economic value of these important resources are being threatened by the spread of aquatic invasive species. Lake Superior has served as a conduit for many non-native species that were discharged from the ballast water of ocean-going ships. Once in Lake Superior these aquatic invasive species can be transported to other water bodies by attaching to boats, boat trailers and boat equipment or by residing in boat live wells. Once they get into inland lakes they may spread rapidly and denigrate the water quality and native plant and fish populations. There are currently over 80 aquatic invasive species in the Lake Superior, including Eurasian watermilfoil, zebra mussels, rusty crayfish, spiny waterfleas and New Zealand mud snails to name just a few. In an effort to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species to Wisconsin’s lakes and streams, the state under Wis. Statute 30.715(2) has made it illegal to place or use a boat or boating equipment or place a boat trailer in a navigable water if the person has reason to believe that the boat, boat trailer or boating equipment has any aquatic plants attached. And under Wis. Statute 30.715 (3) makes it illegal to place or use a boat or boating equipment or place a boat trailer in the Lower St. Croix River if the person has reason to believe that the boat, boat trailer or boating equipment has zebra mussels attached. Also, under Wis. Statute 30.715(4)(d) requires a person to remove or not place a boat, boat trailer or boating equipment in a navigable water if the law enforcement officer has reason to believe that the boat, boat trailer or boating equipment has zebra mussels attached. Minnesota law, however, provides more comprehensive aquatic invasive species control by making it unlawful both to transport on public roads and introduce into public waters “prohibited invasive species,” which includes a list of aquatic plants and animals. Request:  It is requested that the Wisconsin State Legislature pass legislation that makes it illegal and unlawful to transport on public roads, except to a nearby cleaning station, prohibited aquatic invasive species attached to a recreational boat, boat trailer or other recreational watercraft in Wisconsin; and make it illegal and unlawful to launch a recreational boat, boat trailer or other recreational watercraft with attached prohibited aquatic invasive species in all navigable waters in Wisconsin. This proposed legislation would provide Wisconsin, like Minnesota, with a more comprehensive way to address the threats and problems caused by aquatic invasive species. It would help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species from Lake Superior to the inland lakes of northwest Wisconsin and help prevent their spread from infested inland lakes to other inland lakes and rivers. And it would require that recreational boaters and other recreational watercraft users would need to inspect their boats, boat trailers and other watercraft for prohibited aquatic invasive species and remove or wash them off when detected before launching and after removing their boats, boat trailers and other watercraft from the water.

Increase Boat Inspections at Great Lakes Boat Landings

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the State of Wisconsin fund increased boat inspections and boat cleaning efforts at Great Lakes boat landings. Background: The northern one-third of Wisconsin includes a high percentage of the state’s lakes and streams, and the quality of these waters represents a critical element to the lifestyle and economy of the region. Although significant efforts have been put forth to protect water quality, the environmental quality and economic value of these critical resources are being reduced by rapid spread of aquatic invasive species. Great Lakes waters such as the Superior-Duluth estuary, which contains over 20 aquatic invasive species, pose a major problem. The quality of Wisconsin’s inland waters, and their recreational and economic values are seriously threatened by the lack of attention to containing these species within the Great Lakes. Just as boat washing equipment is provided at salt water landings so boaters can protect their rigs from corrosion, it is essential that Wisconsin provide the education and equipment required to promote the cleaning of rigs at Great Lakes landings to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species. Request: It is requested that the state of Wisconsin fund increased boat inspections and boat cleaning efforts at Great Lakes boat landings to help stop the spread of aquatic invasive species to Wisconsin’s inland lakes. It is also specifically requested that state support be provided for a minimum of two full-time boat inspectors at Lake Superior harbors and that they be placed under the leadership of local professionals to assure program quality. In addition, it is requested that the appropriate state agencies work with the city of Superior to install boat washing facilities at Superior harbor boat landings.

Increase the Number of Professional Field Staff in NW Wisconsin

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request increasing the number of UW-Extension and Dept. of Natural Resources professional field staff in northwestern Wisconsin to help address the aquatic invasive species problem. Background: Although the northern one-third of Wisconsin includes a high percentage of the state’s lakes and streams and the quality of these waters represents a critical element to the lifestyle and economy of the region, the professional expertise needed to protect these resources from the spread of aquatic invasive species has been centered in Madison. The value of placing knowledgeable professionals in the north is not only suggested by the region’s needs, but by the past success of the 50 percent Fisheries Specialist position, formerly at UW-Superior, in stimulating public understanding of many critical water resource issues and in fostering the development of the statewide Wisconsin Aquatic Invasive Species Program. Request: It is requested that the University of Wisconsin-Extension and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources increase the number of professional field staff in northwestern Wisconsin to help address the aquatic invasive species problem. It is specifically requested that the 50 percent time Fisheries Specialist position, formerly at UW-Superior, be filled, and that the DNR Invasive Species Specialist position be transferred from Madison to a location in northwestern Wisconsin, preferably in either Bayfield or Ashland County.

Increased Treatment Alternatives & Diversions (TAD) Funding

The Citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request increased funding for the Office of Justice Assistance TAD program, which makes funds available for locally controlled alternative to incarceration programs. We’re requesting that $750,000.00 be earmarked for the eight county region of Northwest Wisconsin. The creation of the TAD program in 2005 gave Wisconsin counties the opportunity to implement or enhance alternative to incarceration, (ATI) programs in order to better serve non-violent, low level offenders with community based treatment. There are currently criminal justice councils, drug courts, and other ATI’s operating in at least seven of the eight northwest Wisconsin counties, and yet only Washburn and Burnett counties have received any TAD funding (at approximately 60% of what was requested). The granting of the requested funding will: • Ease the burden of current out of county incarceration budgets • Relieve the potential tax burden of jail construction/expansion referenda • Help expand the capacity of existing community based treatment for non-violent low level offenders with alcohol and drug or mental health issues • Help return individuals to the community as productive citizens The dollar amount of the request is based on numbers drawn from existing programs and unfunded TAD requests, which indicate that there is strong regional support for an increase in TAD funding.

Integration of Truck, Rail, and Lake Transportation

Facilitate the integration of truck, rail, and lake transportation to improve the use of port facilities and provide employment opportunities in the transportation industry in the Douglas County area (trans load-facilities).

Leah's Law

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the Department of Corrections add violent felony offenders to the notification process in the state criminal code. On January 17, 2006, Leah Gustafson’s life was taken by a neighbor who had an extreme criminal past. Leah’s friends have banded together to seek changes in our State Criminal Code. Just like violent sexual offender notification is the law in Wisconsin, Leah’s friends are seeking to add violent felony offenders to the notification process. Neighbors should know when a violent repeat offender is in their neighborhood. This group is also calling for stricter jail sentences for repetitive violent offenses. A public notification system will alert residents in writing when a violent repeat offender lives in the neighborhood. Notification would include a photo of the offender, address, and the previous offenses committed.

Long Term Care Reform Initiative

Request: That an equitable contribution supporting the expansion of FamilyCare be developed for all counties. Reason for the request: The Governor and the Department of Health and Family Services are committed to long-term care reform and have announced an “expansion of FamilyCare” within the next five years to achieve this goal. Expansion cannot be fully realized within this time frame without the contributions that counties are currently making to the long-term care system. The Department of Health and Family Services in developing its 2007-2009 budget request to the Governor proposed that county contributions to long-term care support will be frozen at the 2005 level as expansion occurs. The total of the contribution made by counties is $95.7 million statewide in Community Aids and local county levy. However, contributions are unevenly distributed across the 72 counties. Individual county contributions range from zero percent to 26.8 percent of all funds spent on home and community based waivers. Recognizing that counties do not currently have the ability to levy more taxes due to the property tax freeze, the Wisconsin Counties Association (WCA) has recommended that over a ten year period the contribution made by counties be limited to 22 percent of the Base County Allocation (BCA) or the current contribution identified by the State, whichever is less. WCA has also proposed using county contributions from fiscal year 2003, 2004 or 2005, whichever is most favorable to counties. While this methodology is more appealing to counties and it appears the proposal was included in the final DHFS proposal to the Governor’s budget, it still does not address the inequity of between those counties who will contribute 22 percent of their Base County Allocation and those that will pay less. We advocate that a common contribution be developed for all counties. This could be a standard 22 percent of BCA, however, as previously stated this would prove difficult for counties who currently provide less than 22% since most counties are unable to levy additional taxes; the required contribution could be based on the contributions established by counties who are contributing less than 22% of their BCA; the State could choose to “buy out” the county contribution entirely; or another methodology could be proposed. No matter what method is used to determine the final cost, it should be equitable to all counties in the State. We support equity among counties and strongly object to perpetuating a system that imposes ongoing financial penalties to those counties who in the past made a larger financial commitment of local dollars to the elderly and disabled in their communities. Had they not done so, there would have been even larger waiting lists.

Madeline Island Road Improvements

At the request of State Senator Robert Jauch, State Representative Gary Sherman, and Wisconsin Department of Transportation Secretary Frank Busalacchi, I am proposing to add our lobbying effort for island road improvements to the February, 2007 Superior Days agenda. Early last year, the La Pointe Town Board formed an ad hoc committee to form a comprehensive plan for Madeline Island’s 2008 road improvements. Ashland County plans to have an asphalt plant in place at that time, for Highway H resurfacing. The town wishes to take advantage of that situation to pave North Shore Road and its connectors. On October 8, 2005, the committee met with Sen. Jauch, Rep. Sherman, and Sec. Busalacchi in Bayfield to discuss our problems and seek solutions. At that meeting, we discussed increased tourism from the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and the impact on transportation and safety related to the road infrastructure. While there was unanimous agreement over the needed road improvements, it was noted that size and population restrictions made the island ineligible for most state and federal grants. In addition, state tax laws on equalization and revenue sharing have left the municipality with virtually no money to address its own needs. Sec. Busalacchi expressed his commitment to the road project and formed a committee of his top management to work with us on costs and funding. We concluded that our committee does the following: • Research all grants and determine whether or not we qualify • Study alternatives for road resurfacing • Prepare a comprehensive road plan • Obtain cost estimates Over the past year, the committee has worked with WisDOT to complete all of these tasks. Sen. Jauch suggested we lobby to have our road improvement funding included in the budget for 2008. We were to have the aforementioned tasks completed and be prepared to discuss them at 2007 Superior Days. Accordingly, the committee has written a detailed issue paper, which includes the comprehensive plan, and will send it to our state and federal representatives in December. That way, we will all be ready to discuss the issue in Madison next February.

Medical Assistance Transportation Volunteer Drivers Prior Authorizations

Request: A change to the Medical Assistance (MA) manual that eliminate the requirement to prior authorize MA transportation to medical appointments and procedures when the transportation is provided by volunteer drivers, family or household members, or consumers who drive themselves. Instead, require that documentation be submitted that provides proof that a medical appointment was kept. Reason for the request: Currently, in order to approve Medical Assistance (MA) transportation reimbursement to volunteer drivers, family or household members, or consumers who drive themselves to medical appointments, prior authorization is required. This requirement is time consuming and administratively burdensome to counties. It requires that the consumer call us prior to the appointment time in order to establish reimbursement for their transportation, even though they are not required to prior authorize the services that they receive from most medical providers. It requires counties to log appointments and verify that the appointment was prior authorized before approving reimbursement when a request is submitted. It does not, however, provide us with any evidence that an appointment was kept. Which, in turn, does not allow us to easily detect abuse or fraud, nor does it make allowances for consumers who do not remember to prior authorize their appointments. Many counties currently require drivers to submit documentation that provides proof appointments were kept. This allows county staff to see that the patient was seen by a medical provider and it has made it possible to more easily detect fraud. Unfortunately, it also doubles the workload for county personnel who are already prior authorizing MA transportation reimbursement. The problems: 1. Prior authorizations are time consuming and administratively burdensome. 2. Prior authorizations do not allow county personnel to detect fraud. 3. Prior authorizations penalize consumers and/or drivers who neglect to or who, for legitimate health reasons, may not remember or be able to prior authorize appointments. We support the reimbursement of medical mileage to eligible low income recipients and advocate for a system of checks and balances that promote accountability for reimbursement of MA transportation, but do not prove administratively burdensome.

Mental Health and WI Medical Assistance Program (WMAP) Rates

In Douglas County, we continue to experience particular difficulty finding and adequately supporting mental health and substance abuse providers who service WMAP recipients. The mental health and substance abuse treatment areas are two areas where WMAP reimbursement is significantly below provider’s cost to provide the service as well as significantly below the State of Minnesota Medicaid reimbursement rates. For example, for one hour of psychotherapy provided by a master’s level psychotherapist, WMAP reimbursement is $55.00 per hour and in Duluth, Minnesota (sister city to Superior) Medicaid reimbursement is $75.60 per hour. As Duluth and Superior are sister cities, the providers and agencies in both cities compete for employees from the same pool of workers. The ability to successfully compete for workers on the Wisconsin side is seriously impacted by the low reimbursement rates. For master’s level psychotherapists, starting salaries in Superior are $10,000 to $20,000 less in Superior than Duluth. There are not enough mental health professionals residing in Superior to fill our positions and we must compete with Duluth for employees. This presents a hardship for provider agencies to recruit and maintain adequate staff.

New York Building

Northwest Wisconsin Homeless Veterans

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the Legislature: • Commit to care and shelter of Homeless Veterans • That a Homeless program be established for Northwestern Wisconsin Veterans Background: Nationally, one third of the adult homeless population in our country is U.S. Veterans. The homeless population in the United States exceeds 200,000. Temporary homelessness of veterans is on the rise. Currently the Wisconsin Department of Veteran’s Affairs is working with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to create a new homeless shelter in Chippewa Falls, WI. This shelter will include job training, mental health and substance abuse treatments facilities. This same type of facility is needed in Northern Wisconsin. Reason for request: Counties have limited and temporary funds to protect and lodge our homeless Veteran but there are no long term programs available in Northern Wisconsin. Wisconsin has been funding one stop shopping Resource Centers to come up with solutions for caring for the Aging and Disabled, mental illness and or substance use disorders users. This same model should be used to address Veteran homelessness issues. Action: We request that the Department of Veteran’s Affairs develop a plan on how to deal with Veteran Homelessness locally instead of moving our residents elsewhere.

Northwest Wisconsin Veteran Long Term Care

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the Legislature commit to the establishment of a Long Term Heath Care system for Northwest Wisconsin Veterans. Back Ground: The State of Wisconsin is in the process of redesigning Long Term Care in Northern Wisconsin with the development of the NW Wisconsin Long Term Care Options Consortium (NW-LTCO) At present there are no VA contracted nursing home facilities in Northern Wisconsin. The nearest WDVA Home is in Waupaca, WI, over 230 miles away. Douglas County has discussed the possibility of a Veteran’s Home in Superior. The proposed facility would be a regional facility servicing Northern Wisconsin. Action: We request that the Department of Veteran’s Affairs consider how to address keeping NW Wisconsin Veterans in NW Wisconsin.

Pattison State Park Project

Rep. Frank Boyle submitted a proposal to the Department of Natural Resources and the Governor’s Office to create an alternative energy demonstration project at Pattison State Park. The initiative was received favorably and the Division of Energy within the Department of Administration is funding a preliminary feasibility study. The plan would include hydro, solar and wind generation demonstration projects that could potentially make Pattison State Park the first energy-free park in Wisconsin, if not in the nation! A hydro generator would be installed at the base of the existing dam that would generate year round as the river flowed. The electricity would be monitored by the local electric co-op and rebated back to the state park for peak summer campsite usage. The solar and wind generators would energize batteries to heat and light the year round park office. All three alternative energy sources would be an educational demonstration project, hopefully attracting hundreds of school age children and interested alternative energy enthusiasts from around the country. Wisconsin needs to be a leader in the use of alternative energy resources. The demonstration project at Pattison State Park could be the beginning!

Paving of Road Access to the Northern WI Veteran's Memorial Cemetery

Request: The State of Wisconsin, through the Department of Transportation or the Department of Veteran's Affairs, should provide funding for the paving of Wildcat Road, a Town of Beaverbrook Road that provides access to the Northern Wisconsin Veteran's Memorial Cemetery. Reason for Request: There is a 0.85-mile section of Wildcat Road that is currently unpaved. Due to high traffic during holidays and funerals, the Wisconsin State Patrol has requested that the traffic be sent to STH 70 and Wildcat Road rather than the intersection of Veterans Way and USH 53. This causes traffic to use the unpaved section of Wildcat Road, which gets extremely rough and dusty during these times of high traffic. By providing for the paving of Wildcat Road, the safety of those utilizing the northern access to the Veterans Memorial Cemetery will be greatly increased.

Prevailing Wage

Request:  Resubmit Governor Doyle's initiative for construction Prevailing wages which was a part of the Grow Wisconsin economic development plan for the State of Wisconsin. Reason for the Request:  Needed changes to the process used to determine Prevailing Construction Wages so that area collectively bargained rates be applied to all public projects. The model for this request could mirror the City of Superior's Prevailing Wage Ordinance for construction which was enacted in 1988. Superior's ordinance recognizes area collectively bargained rates as the Prevailing rate. Changes to these processes and others would remove the competitive bidding disadvantage for contractors who work under collectively bargained rates that include FAMILY SUPPORTING wages with healthcare and pensions. This would also reduce the burden on State subsidized healthcare needs and have a positive affect on the economic future for the State of Wisconsin. The reporting process may be discriminatory.  No accountability with out the submission of certified payrolls. The value of thresholds should be set at lower levels and not change.

Proposed 2.5% Gross Receipts Fee on Petroleum Sales

While we applaud the efforts of the Governor to fully fund Wisconsin's transportation infrastructure, we are concerned with the proposed 2.5% gross receipts fee on petroleum sales. Superior is home to Murphy Oil who is a major employer and economic driver in this community. Murphy is the only oil refinery and fuel manufacturer in the State of Wisconsin. While Murphy Oil supplies only a small amount of the total fuel volume sold in Wisconsin, they would disproportionately bear the burden of the proposed fee as a larger proportion of their production is sold in Wisconsin. While the Superior Refinery is significant in our local economy, it is not part of "Big Oil" that the Governor is proposing to target with this fee. It is in fact classified by the Federal government as a "small refiner". Before approving this measure, please consider the significant impact that this fee will have on the Superior area.

Public Assistance Proof of Citizenship Alternatives

Request: That DHFS work with the federal government and other states and/or agencies to develop low cost alternatives to establishing verification of citizenship when low income individuals are applying for public assistance programs. Reason for the request: Currently, in order to become eligible for public assistance programs, it is necessary for applicants to provide proof of citizenship. We request that DHFS work with the federal government and other states and/or agencies to develop low cost alternatives to establishing verification of citizenship when low income individuals are applying for public assistance programs. Low income individuals come from many different backgrounds and life experiences. In some instances, conditions or circumstances exist that make it difficult for individuals or families to retain the original birth records or other identifying papers that verify their citizenship. Nomadic life styles, chaotic living situations, domestic violence, poor mental health, and/or alcohol and other drug abuse are examples of what might adversely affect a person or family’s ability to provide this documentation. When these individuals apply for public assistance, they may not easily be able to locate the documentation and are often unable to afford the fees that are associated with getting new documents. The problems: 1. Some low income individuals do not easily retain documentation that provides proof of citizenship. 2. Some low income individuals cannot easily access or determine how they will access documentation that provides proof of citizenship. 3. There is no uniform process or standard fee associated with obtaining verification of citizenship. 4. Low income individuals or families may not be able to easily afford the cost of the documentation required to verify citizenship. 5. Due to the applicant’s circumstances or the origin of the provider of documentation, some programs do not allow adequate time to waive the verification requirement to allow enough time for the acquisition of appropriate documentation. The proposed solutions: 1. Develop and/or propose solutions that would enable the verification process to be completed nationwide in a cost efficient and timely manner. 2. Work with the federal government to provide for more agency discretion to allow for adequate time to obtain proof of citizenship when needed. We understand that verifying citizenship is a federal requirement, but hope that DHFS and the State of Wisconsin can take a lead role in proposing solutions that will benefit the poor and needy in our communities. Modern technology can and should be used to provide a cost efficient and standard manner of obtaining proof of citizenship when it is needed to obtain eligibility for public assistance programs.

Purchase of Development Rights Program

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that a Purchase of Development Rights Program be established by the State. Background:  Wisconsin is a leading state in agriculture, but continues to lose farmland to non-agricultural uses at a rapid rate. Some towns and counties in Wisconsin as part of their land use planning have moved forward to save the farmland that supports their local economy and protects the rural character of their community. Using every tool possible, like exclusive agricultural zoning and conservation programs, local governments have determined that in some situations the only way to permanently protect prime and unique farmland is to purchase the development rights (PDR). The purchase of development rights is a voluntary farmland preservation tool that compensates the landowner at a fair market value for permanently restricting the land from development to save it for agriculture or open space. The restrictions are incorporated into an easement that is recorded at the courthouse and annually monitored by the local government or land trust. When farmland is protected by a permanent easement, its future will be secured for the benefit of the farmer and the community. The Working Lands Initiative task force appointed by Secretary of Agriculture Nilsestuen, is taking up this discussion, and recommended in January 2006 that PDR be part of the state’s program to preserve farmland. We encourage the task force to: • Fund local programs; • Target critical agricultural areas, especially high value crops and tourism areas; • Require the local program be based on comprehensive planning; • Permit non-profit land trusts to be eligible grantees; and • Consider administering the PDR grant program through the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund which provides grants for fee title and easement acquisition for natural areas, parks and trails in Wisconsin. Local governments and non-profit organizations can leverage the state’s investment with private and local dollars. Farmland protection efforts could be doubled by bringing a state funding component to match federal and local PDR dollars. Twenty-four states with PDR programs provide state funding. Available sources of federal money that could be leveraged against state PDR funding include the Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program (FRPP) and the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP). Funding Options: A state PDR grant program can be funded in many ways. Key funding mechanisms could include: • Re-allocation of Wis. Department of Agriculture Farmland Preservation program funds; • Bond appropriation; • Real estate transfer fee; • Impact fees on agricultural land when it is converted to other use; and • Finance payments into the future by utilizing “equity insurance” where the state makes a down payment to the landowner and purchases an insurance policy for the balance. The landowner collects on the policy when the land is transferred or he/she retires.

Railroad Crossing Safety Funding

The Citizens of Northwest Wisconsin Request increased financial support for the upgrade Railroad crossing warning devices in rural Douglas County. Railroad crossing warning devices in rural Douglas County are currently meeting only the minimal standards set by the DOT. Crossing upgrades are currently financed based on reactive statistics based on reports of near misses by train crews, and actual accident reports. Crossing upgrades can cost as much as $100,000 for full protection to including center dividers with warning lights and signal arms. Most of our rural crossings is protected solely by a post with reflective cross bucks. We do not need the highest level of protection, but a minimum of warning lights will drastically improve the safety of our citizens. WI is currently 10th in the nation for RR crossing fatalities. We should be taking a proactive approach to prevent injuries and fatalities rather than a reactive approach. Since 2000 Douglas County has had 27 RR crossing incidents involving 6 injuries and one fatality. Train frequency and speed has drastically increased due to the Railroads ever increasing competitive advantage in shipping costs. We should not wait for further increases in incident frequency to justify the funding of public safety.

Renewable Energy

Request: Support Funding for the exploration and development of renewable energy opportunities in Northwest Wisconsin Reason for Request: Renewable Energy - Bio, Wind, Solar - can be an important factor in the future of NW Wisconsin. Support for development, expansion, is needed to make it a reality.

Reseach Facility at the US Geological Survey Vessel Dock Site in Ashland

Federal-State-Local Partnership. State planning grant.

Rural Public Transportation

Request: The Legislature provide support for rural public transportation expansion in our region through expedited funding for new and/or expanded service for public transportation and provide for greater flexibility for riders and providers utilizing present state-funded transportation services. Background: Earlier this year the Wisconsin DOT requested Northwest Regional Planning bring together transportation stakeholders from the ten Northwest Wisconsin counties to develop Public Transit Human Services Transportation Coordination Plans. At the county-wide transportation meetings participants rated how well each County's providers presently coordinate transportation services and identified transportation coordination solutions. Both the participants at individual meetings and the county plans agree strongly on the need and the means for achieving better coordination. Areas of strong agreement include: 1. Transportation programs within the region can do a better job of coordinating services. 2. More riders could travel on the same vehicle and beyond county lines if eligibility and funding for transportation programs were not so narrowly restricted. 3. Legislative leadership is needed to expedite funding and policy change for all phases of improvement in coordinating transportation services. 4. DOT, DHFS and other state departments will need to expedite funding and policy change. Legislative support for public transit, inter-and intra-county will create a benefit to citizens of Northwest Wisconsin. A model already exists that can be expanded or supplicated. It is a joint powers agreement between LCO tribe of Ojibwe and the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors, with authority created with representatives of both governing bodies. The transit service, using public funds, provides both route services and ride on demand services, countywide for the public at subsidized rates. This request is supported by a unanimous vote of the Sawyer County/LCO Transit Authority, and of the Economic Development and Planning Committee of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisors.

Sawyer County Economic Development

Request: That the Legislature takes action to improve infrastructure for communication, transportation and economic development that impacts Northwest Wisconsin. The following is excerpted from the minutes of the September meeting of the Sawyer County Board of Supervisor's Economic Development and Planning Committee: Chairman Bruce Miller presented information about planning for the 2007 Superior Days event, including a planning meeting scheduled for November 2nd in Superior. Shirley Riedmann requested that the development of communication towers (for cell phones) and access to high-speed internet be proposed for issues for the event. Hal Helwig requested that maintenance of railroads serving Sawyer County be included as an issue for the event. Ron Petit and Ken Patenaude (Winter Coop), representing the Friends of the Tuscobia Trail, presented information about a proposed project to develop a Winter Depot Trailhead on property adjacent to the Tuscobia Trail that would be donated by the Winter Coop near the Village of Winter. The request was for the County to act as the governmental sponsor for the project for purposes of project grant applications, including a Department of Transportation grant. The Committee indicated that there may be support for the project, but requested that the Friends of the Tuscobia Trail prepare a more specific project proposal for the next meeting of the Committee. Linda Zilmer presented information about a development of a regional food supply network. Chairman Miller indicated that he would discuss this with University of Wisconsin-Extension Agent Dave Berard.

State of Wisconsin Harbor Assistance Program (HAP)

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the Legislature provide increased funding for the Harbor Assistance Program, provide consideration or designation of funds to two major Superior harbor projects and provide funding for research related to accelerated freshwater corrosion. Superior is Wisconsin’s largest port. The port of Superior-Duluth ships the most tonnage of any port on the Great Lakes. The port of Superior-Duluth also has the designation as being the largest (by volume) seasonal port in the world. The annual shipping season and associated waterfront capital investments generate a total economic impact for the Superior region that exceeds $210 million. Waterfront facilities pay over $3 million in property taxes and Superior docks pay occupational taxes of approximately $1 million per annum. More than 2,000 jobs are directly and indirectly reliant on the annual shipping season and capital investments. An efficient and thriving port requires significant investment in harbor infrastructure including dock walls, material handling facilities and harbor and slip dredging. Regular dock wall maintenance is expected, but other unforeseen opportunities and threats arise in a port community which require immediate attention and additional financial investment. Wisconsin is fortunate in that it has a program that provides financial assistance to port communities and the maritime businesses located therein. Since 1979, the Harbor Assistance Program (HAP), administered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, has assisted harbor communities along the Great Lakes and Mississippi River in maintaining and improving waterborne commerce. Port projects typically include dock reconstruction, mooring structure replacement, dredging, and the construction of facilities to hold dredged material. The port of Superior has received assistance from HAP in the past for three dock wall improvement projects. Harbor Assistance Program grant funds may be used to finance up to 80 percent of eligible project costs or, if U.S. Army Corps of Engineers financing is involved, up to 50 percent of the local share of eligible project costs. HAP has historically been funded at $5 million per biennium. Unfortunately, the need for HAP funds far outstrips the resources available in the program. In the port of Superior alone, 28 dock projects have been identified that would require a total of approximately $60 million in investments over the next twenty years. Neither the City of Superior nor the industries that utilize these facilities have the financial wherewithal to make these investments on their own. Two immediate projects in the port require over $4.7 million in funding. The dock that serves the Cutler Magner Company needs to be improved in order to support the company’s $36 million dollar expansion to its manufacturing operations. On the other end of the port, dock wall repairs totaling $1.7 million dollars are expected to address dock wall deterioration at Cenex Harvest States due to “accelerated freshwater corrosion” that is occurring in the Superior-Duluth Harbor. The “accelerated freshwater corrosion” is a significant problem in the Superior-Duluth harbor. The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers and the State of Minnesota have provided funds to research the cause of the problem and to develop solutions. Research could point to the utilization of protective coatings that could preserve dock walls and delay or prevent costly future repairs – thus saving millions of dollars in the long run. The State of Wisconsin has not yet contributed funds to these research efforts. Results of research done in the Superior Harbor could be used to address this issue in other harbors in the state. In summary, in order for Superior to maintain its status as a world class port it needs assistance from the State of Wisconsin to address the opportunities and threats that face its harbor facilities. We are requesting that the State of Wisconsin: 1) increase funding of the HAP program to at least $6 million per biennium, 2) provide consideration or designation of funds to the Cutler Magner and Cenex Harvest States projects; and 3) provide $150,000 in funding for research related to the accelerated freshwater corrosion problem facing the harbor.

State Prisoners in the Douglas County Jail

Douglas County would like to thank the Department of Corrections for housing state prisoners in the Douglas County Jail during the past year. Douglas County, up to this date, has received about one million dollars revenue from state prisoners. We are requesting that the Department of Corrections continue to evaluate the possibility of using the modern, well-staffed and equipped Douglas County Jail in housing state prisoners.

Support for Specific Classroom Courses & Curriculum

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request assistance and advocacy for funding to provide support for technical, language, the arts, and advanced placement courses in our public schools. Support would be utilized to protect existing services, recover student services that have been cut, or to provide additional needed services. Situation Statement • Funding decisions for local school districts is complicated and difficult. In the end, it is students who experience the ramifications of those decisions. Every county in Northwest Wisconsin, save one, has over 40% of their youth eligible for free and reduced lunches. Our communities suffer from lower incomes when compared to other areas of the state and combined with already high property taxes, it is virtually impossible to provide enough local tax revenue for our schools. • Students have voiced their concerns about their school’s curriculum and the number and types of classes no longer offered or have been cut. This also applies to new programs that cannot be offered. These types of classes include advanced placement, gifted & talented, language, the arts, and technical-focused curriculums. • For those students who will not be seeking a college or technical degree, a Student Apprenticeship on-the-job training program during their senior year will help students become more employable and encourage small business development. • Many smaller school districts do not have the funding to support “club” status programs such as theatre, the arts, and some athletics. They rely of volunteers and raising their own funds. Not only does Northwest Wisconsin have lower incomes, it also has about 1/3 of the population density as compared to the rest of the state. So, we have more people who earn less money, and less numbers of people to ask for money to support these activities. Theatre programs at the local level could address and help support prevention topics such as bullying alcoholism, drug use, date rape, and other social awareness issues. How can students work with the Department of Public Instruction to advocate for some type of funding assistance or resources to reverse this trend in the schools of Northwest Wisconsin?

Superior Paint the Town

The Citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Association (WHEDA) continue their support to Superior’s Paint the Town Project in the amount of $10,000.00. We greatly appreciate WHEDA’s funding resources in the past several years. The 2007 "Paint the Town Superior" is scheduled for early fall. We are planning on painting up to ten homes at locations yet to be decided. Over 150 volunteers will participate in a painting day and many other volunteers will provide the planning and preparation for the event. A task force has been organized to plan the event with members from UW-Extension, Douglas County Health Department, The Development Association, the Superior Business Improvement District, City of Superior’s Community Development Office, members of the business community and individual citizens.

Sustainable Tourism Business Workshop

The Citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request the opportunity to work with the Wisconsin Department of Tourism and the Wisconsin Department of Commerce staff in planning and implementing a Sustainable Tourism/Business Conference in the Winter/Spring of 2008. This conference & training would serve as a pilot program for the tourism industry throughout the state and business entities in general. We would like to inform department staff on area initiatives and to develop collaborative support for the 2008 conference in Northwest Wisconsin. Reason for the request:  Given the Wisconsin department of Tourism’s current and future emphasis on Eco-tourism, it is essential that local businesses become better informed on the principles of sustainable business practices and eco-tourism. Northwest Wisconsin (especially the Chequamegon Bay region) is actively moving forward to become the State’s premier eco-tourism destination and model for sustainable rural community development. Evidenced by: • Ashland, Washburn, Town and City of Bayfield have passed Eco-municipality resolutions • Activity of Alliance for Sustainability including extensive strategic plan, hiring of staff and opening of office • 2005 Sustainable Sweden Conference in region (Sustainable Sweden) attended by more than 200 people • 8-member delegation from the Bay area traveled to Sweden in 2006 to tour Swedish eco-municipalities • Bayfield pilot area for Wisconsin Travel Green program with 15 businesses certified in the program providing a base of businesses already on track. As the Chequamegon Bay area moves forward with these initiatives, we see an opportunity to provide information, training and assistance to the rest of the business community throughout Wisconsin. Rationale:  To accomplish this, we must provide education, financial resources and collaboration with appropriate state agencies and model businesses. A conference to be held in the Winter/Spring of 2008 in the Chequamegon Bay area will provide this much needed training for State businesses. Conference goals: • Provide a knowledgeable and credible keynote speaker to inspire and motivate business owners to adopt sustainable practices. • Provide education on existing programs and businesses that show the benefits of sustainable operation. • Provide break-out sessions with State agencies, and business/program experts that inform business owners on how to proceed, i.e., certifications available, business models, etc.

Sustainability of the Crex Meadows Youth Conservation Camp

Request: Support for additional funding in order to sustain the Crex Meadows Youth Conservation Camp project in northwest Wisconsin. Reason for the Request: For a decade, Crex Meadows Youth Conservation Camp (YCC) has been making a difference in the lives of teenagers who are at-risk and come from low-income families in northwest Wisconsin. Since the camp's inception, 500 youth have participated in this unique work experience that is unlike any other in the state. However in the last few years, CEP, Inc., the administering organization, has faced deep cuts in both federal and state funding, making it impossible to keep the camp open for these low-income students. The camp is located within Crex Meadows, a 30,000 acre wildlife sanctuary and refuge in Burnett County. The campers participate in an effective mix of real work, for which they receive a paycheck, an engaging academic curriculum that translates to high school science credit, and a variety of recreational activities. In most years, the Camp serves about 60 young people who come from school districts across northern Wisconsin. For many of these young people this is not only their first job but also their first time away from home for an extended period. Campers are paid minimum wage to work with Department of Natural Resources (DNR) employees on projects that might include banding Canada Geese, removal of exotic plants, maintaining forest trails in the Governor Knowles State Forest, and construction of small bridges and platforms over “foot-soaking” areas along the hiking trails. The academic curriculum is inquiry based with interactive, hands-on learning in areas such as biology, critical thinking, science method, and engineering. During evenings and weekends, campers have the opportunity to participate in activities like swimming, fishing, volleyball, trust and teambuilding, campfire games and storytelling, and even horseback riding. For more than half the campers this is their first time on a horse. The experience at Crex Meadows gives these young people a chance to excel, learn about skills they never even knew they had, get paid for real work, earn science or elective credits at their local high school, and start planning for a brighter future. Crex Meadows has made a difference in the lives of campers. Young people that seemed headed for bleak futures have returned and finished high school, gone on to vocational school or in some cases college, and found rewarding and satisfying employment. Many of these former campers credit the skills and confidence gained at Crex Meadows as instrumental in the turn-around they made in their lives. The impact of such an investment for the northwest Wisconsin region is: • The opportunity for students who are credit deficient to earn credit towards graduation - increased high school graduates from the region. • Employability skills developed by 60 youth each summer - more youth gainfully employed. • Support of the DNR and the Crex Meadows Wildlife Area through the countless conservation man-hours put in by the youth and their counselors during the summer. • Self-confident youth that pursue post-secondary education or obtain employment. • The Crex Meadows YCC has the strong support of local legislators, the Workforce Investment Board, the Youth Council, and residents of the region.

US Highway 2 Expansion

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the Legislature expands Highway 2 to four (4) lanes from the Michigan State line to the Minnesota State line. Background:  We propose that US Hwy 2, currently a two-lane non-divided highway, be converted to a four lane highway between Superior (Douglas County) Ashland (Ashland County) and Hurley (Iron County). This portion of highway encompasses approximately 100 miles of roadway, spanning the width of four counties and is the only major highway in the state that crosses both the east and west borders. US Hwy 2 forms the main transportation route for citizens, visitors and commerce through Northern Wisconsin. US Hwy 2 is a major NAFTA artery, increasing every day. Canadian trucking is finding it more economical to travel from eastern Canada to western Canada through the Northern US rather than north of Lake Superior. Second, Interstate 75, which runs from Sioux St. Marie to Tampa, through major metros like Detroit, Cincinnati and Atlanta, ties into US 2 in the Upper Peninsula. Development of US 2 through Northern Wisconsin would encourage Michigan to do the same, which would ultimately develop into a major interstate, bringing increased federal transportation funding into the state as well as linking the northland to the major commerce grid throughout the US. With regard to planning and economic development, infrastructure is the most pressing development need for the northern portion of the state. Responsible economic development is encouraged by each of the four counties and cities along the route. Each county faces their own unique infrastructure challenges, which provide barriers to economic development. Appropriate roadways, accessibility of electricity, as well as water and sewer systems are the primary infrastructure concerns. Electricity, water and sewer must be addressed location by location; however, appropriate transportation routes are a broader concern, which impact all of Northern Wisconsin collectively. The whole point of planning is to control where things like traffic develop. Traffic goes where the highways are. In his last state of the state address, former Governor Thompson said that 95% of all manufacturing jobs during his 14 years in office were within 5 miles of the centerline of a backbone highway (meaning a 4-lane, 65 mph highway). By converting US Hwy 2 from a 2-lane highway to a 4-lane between Superior and Hurley, we would remove one of the primary barriers to economic development in the Northland. In taking a look around the State, you can see the growth in the areas that have four lane highways. Examples are the growth on the 94 corridor from Hudson to Eau Claire, the growth on Highway 10 at Stevens Point and at Appleton, and the growth around the highway 29 areas of Chippewa Falls and Wausau to name a few. US Hwy 2 connects with US Hwy 53, a 4-lane freeway, as well as US Hwy 35 at the Minnesota border, also a 4-lane freeway. These freeways are main arteries to the metropolitan areas of the Twin Cities and Eau Claire. The continued expansion of Hwy 51, north of Wausau to Hurley would create a stronger transportation infrastructure in the future. In Governor Jim Doyle’s GROW WISCONSIN 2005 AGENDA, under the topic of TRANSPORTATION, the Governor states that “With a safe, efficient and high-quality transportation system, Wisconsin can capitalize on economic opportunities and foster economic growth”. He also states that “businesses need good roads for the flow of supplies, goods and services”, and he recognizes that “investments in our infrastructure are vital to the state’s economy”.

US Highway 2 & 13 Intersection Safety

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin thank the legislature and the Department of Transportation for holding a public input session in 2006 and installing a short-term recommended “Advance Warning Flasher”. We respectfully request the Department of Transportation to commit to completing a study and design, which will identify options for improvements to the Highway 2 & 13 Intersection, provided that funding can be secured. Background: In 2003, a Highway Safety Committee met to study and recommend improvements to the “T” intersection of State Highway 13 and US Highway 2 near Ashland. As a result, a sign-bridge identifying turning lanes, a designated turning lane, improved radius for entry onto Westbound US Highway 2, and improved line painting were approved and implemented. Unfortunately, the improvements did not reduce the amount of accidents/fatalities at the intersection. In November of 2005, another fatal accident took place, in addition to five other non-fatal accidents since the time of the improvements. As a result of these accidents, additional safety improvements, including more rumble strips and a flashing stop sign were added. This intersection is one of the busiest and most dangerous in both Ashland and Bayfield Counties. Senator Jauch and Representative Sherman have held a Public Hearing about this intersection. The majority of schools, cities and counties have submitted resolutions requesting improvement at this intersection. The common theme is that the intersection is dangerous, confusing and in need of more stringent safety processes. Request: We respectfully request that the Department of Transportation to commit to completing a study and design, which will identify options for improvements to the Highway 2 & 13 Intersection, provided that funding can be secured.

US Highway 13 Passing Lanes

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the Department of Transportation consider Highway 13 expansion to include additional passing lanes. Over the years, we’ve seen a marked increase in the traffic on State Highway 13 in Ashland County. The Highway 13 corridor is very hilly and scenic. Truck traffic, in particular has increased and can slow the traffic flow. Passing lanes, especially in the more hilly areas would keep the traffic moving. The ability to move materials through our area can help the economy of the whole region.

US Highway 53 Safety Team

Request: The US Highway 53 Safety Team be called together again to examine the three year crash data to determine if the solutions are still effective, as well as examine other solutions to increase the safety of the USH 53 corridor thru Northwest Wisconsin. Reason for Request: At Superior Days in 2000, Douglas, Washburn and Barron Counties requested that the safety of the at grade intersections along the USH 53 corridor be addressed. USH 53 is an expressway with local at grade crossings in these Counties. The concern of the counties centered on 6 major intersections that had high incidents of crashes. They are CTH B in Douglas County, STH 77, USH 63, CTH E and CTH B in Washburn County and CTH V in Barron County. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation District 8 Office formed the US Highway 53 Safety Team to study these intersections and determine what improvements can be made to improve their safety. It was determined by the Committee to look at solutions that could be cost effective and implement them in as short of a time period as possible. The Committee's three-tiered solution of Enforcement, Engineering and Education was implemented in 2001 and 2002. The solution has resulted in some reduction in accidents. The Committee has not meet since 2002. It was determined at that time to implement the chosen low cost solutions and study their effectiveness. Accidents at these intersections are usually severe, given the speed of the traffic involved. Accidents at these intersections often result in severe injury or fatality. The Citizens of Northwest Wisconsin feel that several these intersections continue to have high incident of injury related accidents. Therefore, the Citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the US Highway 53 Safety Team be called together again to examine the three year crash data to determine if the solutions are still effective, as well as examine other solutions to increase the safety of the USH 53 corridor thru Northwest Wisconsin.

US Highway 63 Reconstruction within the City of Spooner

Request: The State Department of Transportation allocates highway funding for a highway improvement project on State Trunk Highway 63 on the south side of the City of Spooner. Reason for Request: The City of Spooner is in desperate need for a highway improvement project on State Trunk Highway 63 on the south side of the City of Spooner. The DOT shows this area as one of extreme congestion on page 19 of the "WI State Highway Plan 2020, Summary Report", dated November 17, 1999. The DOT 1999 Annual Average Daily Traffic estimate is 19,100 vehicles in this area. The estimate for year 2004 is 20,900 vehicles. The estimate for year 2024 is 25,000 vehicles. The DOT has scheduled a project that included widening the area to a 4-lane facility and a traffic signal for the year 2004. The DOT has determined that the traffic is more than 40% local traffic and therefore according to their policy requires a 25% local match. The City of Spooner has met with the Department to discuss the project, which has been put on hold. Wis DOT finished an overlay project within the city limits in 2004; this project is expected to last 10 years. It is time to begin planning for the reconstruction project now. The City of Spooner can simply not afford to pay this amount for a project that is desperately needed to improve the roadway level of service and safety. The roadway is used by many people from areas outside the city and outside the state as well. The 2006 City of Spooner budget is $3.2 million, with a local levy of $960,000. A project of the magnitude described above is too large a burden for Spooner to handle on its own; we would have to almost double our local levy if done in one year. We are requesting that monies be included in a negotiated transportation package to fund the local contribution for this project.

University of Wisconsin-Extension Criminal Justice Specialists

The citizens of Northwest Wisconsin request that the University of Wisconsin-Extension establishes the position of Criminal Justice Specialist in Northwest Wisconsin. For four years delegates at Superior Days have made a request for assistance to UW Extension for specialist assistance in the field of Criminal Justice. The Criminal Justice System accounts for upwards of 70% of northwest counties General Fund levies. County government officials from northwest Wisconsin and around the state are struggling to control ever rising criminal justice costs. In recent years most have either built new larger jails or jail additions, or are planning to build new larger jails to address jail overcrowding. County expenditures on criminal justice-related expenses (jail, sheriff department, district attorney’s office, court system and associated social services) when added together constitute the largest county budget expenditure. Recidivism is one of the largest contributors to jail overcrowding. A recent study showed that 67.5% of those released from Prison re-offend within 3 years of release. New jails that are being built today will in all likelihood be full in the not to distance future and the specter of having to build a new larger jail will again be facing county officials and taxpayers. Unless some things are done differently, this cycle will continue to repeat itself. How can local government officials obtain the knowledge and tools that will enable them to manage their criminal justice system more efficiently and effectively? What criminal justice management practices have proven to be most effective? How can future jail overcrowding be avoided? What alternatives to incarceration programs have proven to work and how do you go about instituting them? What programs for county jail inmates have been effective in addressing their substance abuse, life skills and employability needs? What strategies and intervention programs have proven effective in reducing the number of repeat offenders? A mechanism needs to be put in place that will bring the latest research-based information and education on local criminal justice management practices to local government officials and criminal justice managers. The University of Wisconsin-Extension is in a good position to do this. Its mission is to deliver research-based information to the citizens of the state, and already has numerous educational specialists available to address the needs of local governments ranging from recycling to community development to transportation to land use planning. The University of Wisconsin-Extension should develop some knowledgeable specialists in the area of local criminal justice management practices. These specialists should work with county Extension educators to deliver criminal justice management educational programs and research-based information to local government officials and criminal justice managers.