In a regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday, May 13, evening at the Scandinavia Municipal Center, the Scandinavia Village Board took key actions on local infrastructure, recreation, and staffing, including approving a $2,500 donation from the Booster Club for park maintenance, discussing a costly sewer equipment replacement, and officially appointing a new village clerk following a resignation.
The meeting, called to order at 5 p.m. by Village President David Mork, addressed a packed agenda with all trustees present except Treasurer Bob Fredy.
One of the most critical updates came from Sewer Operator Jesse Haas, who reported a malfunction in the village’s aging Flow Meter, discovered on March 1. Although the issue was gone by the time service company B&M arrived the next day, Haas noted that the condition is typical of aging meters and deemed the unit beyond repair. Replacing the Flow Meter will cost the village an estimated $8,700.
Haas further reported that wastewater volumes had spiked to 100,000 gallons per day in early April but have since stabilized. The board was advised to explore grant funding options to help finance further improvements to the lift station. Haas also committed to preparing the Compliance Maintenance Annual Report (CMAR) for the June meeting and will consult the DNR about potential wind energy benefits at the lagoon site.
Local resident Emma Grimm made a presentation to the board proposing a sand volleyball court for Sentral Park. While board members expressed interest in the idea, they requested additional data and planning details before moving forward. The project remains under consideration.
Trustee Gary Marx reported that the Municipal Center floor renovation is nearly complete, with only a closet threshold strip remaining. The contractor’s final payment will be issued once that is finished. Annual generator maintenance was also completed by Wolter, with the invoice expected soon.
Regarding fire department matters, Marx noted that Fire Chief Fuhs and Trustee Kyle Swenson plan to travel to New York on May 30 to inspect a fire truck valued at $225,000. The truck, if purchased, would not be available until September. Further updates are anticipated at the next meeting.
Jeremy Leitzke, owner of Happy Daaze, briefed the board on a potential beer garden project. Discussions revolved around land survey details and future planning steps.
In a gesture of community support, Booster Club President Adam Blohm presented a $2,500 check to assist with mowing and maintenance of village and township properties.
President Mork reported that longtime street sweeper Ted Erdman has retired. Mork and Trustee Hayes will investigate alternatives, possibly including services from Waupaca County.
The board approved a motion to amend Title 4, Chapter 2 of the Public Utilities Ordinance related to sewer management. Additionally, four liquor license renewals were unanimously approved, with one trustee abstaining.
In a significant staffing change, Clerk Carol Kraco officially resigned from her post. The board promptly voted to appoint Alison Dunham as the new Village Clerk. Dunham took her oath of office during the meeting.
The meeting concluded with the approval of monthly bills and verification of cash fund balances by Trustee Wilhite. With no pending projects or public comments, the board adjourned at 6:20 p.m.