The Village of Iola Board of Trustees convened Tuesday evening, March 11, at Village Hall, where major actions included approving a sewer rate increase, adopting a controversial vacant building ordinance, and fielding robust public support for the local police department.
The meeting, called to order at 5:30 p.m. by Village President Jennifer Schustek, drew a sizable audience of residents and local stakeholders. The open meeting statement was read, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence, before the board moved into a packed agenda that included two public hearings and several high-impact resolutions.
Sewer rate increase approved
A public hearing was opened promptly at 5:33 p.m. regarding a proposed increase to quarterly sewer rates. Trustee Jim Rasmussen explained that rising maintenance costs and lagging project savings necessitated the adjustment. The proposed hike of $13 per quarter, raising rates from $127 to $140, met no objections during the brief hearing.
Following the hearing, the board reconvened and unanimously approved the rate increase, effective April 1, 2025.
Public voices concerns over vacant building ordinance
Next, the board transitioned into a public hearing on a proposed ordinance aimed at regulating vacant buildings within the village. The draft measure would require inspections by the Fire Inspector and Police Chief to address fire and public safety concerns.
Brenda Ivey and Mark McCoy spoke in opposition, citing privacy violations and governmental overreach. Despite their objections, the board returned to regular session and later adopted Ordinance No. 2025-3 via a unanimous roll call vote. The ordinance is now in effect.
Public praises police department amid concerns over safety
Several attendees voiced strong support for the Iola Police Department, responding to recent community debates about law enforcement’s role in the village.
Aaron Messier highlighted the department’s critical role in curbing drunk driving, citing alarming statistics from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. He emphasized that local officers serve as a deterrent, especially with three bars operating in the village.
Steve Fuller delivered an impassioned speech listing seven compelling reasons to maintain local law enforcement, including response times, crime deterrence, and emergency readiness. His remarks were met with nods of agreement from many in attendance.
Village President Schustek also relayed a message from Waupaca County Sheriff Wilz, affirming his support for the Iola Police and clarifying that the sheriff’s department has no intention of assuming local law enforcement duties.
Other public comments and presentations
While several residents had registered to speak on agenda topics such as music and police board conduct, only a few offered new remarks during the meeting. Public comment time was largely consumed by reiterations of points made during the two public hearings.
Board approves equipment purchase and meeting schedules
In other actions:
The board approved the purchase of a 2013 International 7400 truck with plow and spreader for $32,427.50 from an auction website.
Upcoming meeting dates were confirmed: Open Book Meeting, Tuesday, May 13, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. (via phone); and Board of Review, Tuesday, May 20, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
The minutes from six prior meetings, including various board and committee sessions, were reviewed and approved without revision.
Committee Reports
Library: The board accepted the February report from Library Director Robyn Grove, noting strong usage stats including 2,131 total circulations, 289 program attendees, and 13 new patrons.
Protection of Persons and Property: Trustee Pamela Parks read the February report detailing 134 calls, including 27 traffic enforcement actions, 13 public space patrols, and 31 school patrols. The board accepted the report unanimously.
Public Works: Bids will be accepted for street paving projects on Fairview and West McKinley. The board also discussed the replacement of streetlight fixtures and confirmed that the older dump truck would be listed on Wisconsin Surplus Auction.
Legal and financial updates
The board received an update on the Butternut Ridge property tax dispute, which remains in the deposition phase.
The ongoing legal matter concerning the property at 109 South Main, involving Mark McCoy and Lori Miller, is expected to proceed after a recent court ruling favored the Village.
On the financial side, the board approved both the February financial report and the list of bills after review by the Finance Committee.
Correspondence and additional business
Numerous letters of support for the police department were acknowledged from residents including Phyllis Shidel, Scott Reilly, Dean Parks, and Aaron Messier. One letter of complaint was noted from John Bertelson regarding unauthorized recording at a prior Police Committee meeting.
A letter from Benjamin Flanscha urged the board not to be swayed by business interests over public safety, reinforcing sentiments echoed during public comment.
With no further business, Trustee Jim Rasmussen moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Pamela Parks. The motion carried unanimously, and the meeting concluded at 6:18 p.m.