Board approves contract, budget amendment for comprehensive plan update with Lakota Group

The Sauk County Board of Supervisors voted to amend the Land Resources and Environment 2025 budget and to award a contract to the Lakota Group to update the county’s comprehensive plan.

Supervisor Krieger moved the resolution and Supervisor Alexander seconded. Krieger said the amendment is to provide funds for the comprehensive-plan update and to support the Lakota Group contract. During floor discussion supervisors asked about a $100,000 item described as coming from the "local assistance and tribal consistency fund." A county official explained that the funds arrived as part of American Rescue Plan allocations and were available to spend on countywide engagement for planning; the county administrator suggested there is time to obligate those funds through 2026.

Supervisor Klitzke asked when the funds were received; staff said Lynn (not present in the transcript excerpt) would have details on the date of the award. The board also discussed timing for a special strategic-planning meeting; the chair noted the county intends to hold a special meeting on April 30 for strategic planning with the Lakota Group.

The resolution required a two-thirds vote. The recorded vote in the meeting transcript shows 29 in favor, 1 opposed and 1 supervisor absent/excused; the motion passed.

Supervisors described the Lakota Group update as an opportunity to tie the comprehensive plan to the county’s strategic and financial plans and to pursue countywide engagement activities.

Questions from supervisors included clarifying the source and timing of the local assistance funds and ensuring countywide outreach during the planning process.