County board authorizes application for WDNR snowmobile trail aid grant

Jefferson County supervisors voted to authorize the county to apply for a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources motorized recreation grant to support the county’s Snowmobile Trail Aid Program.

The resolution (identified in the meeting as Resolution number 20 24 88) directs county staff to submit a grant application seeking funds for snowmobile trail maintenance and development and to administer any awarded funds according to grant requirements. “Jefferson County participates in the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Snowmobile Trail Aid Program…provides funding for the development and maintenance of approximately 229.4 miles of public snowmobile trails in Jefferson County,” a staff presenter said during the meeting.

A fiscal note included with the resolution estimates the snowmobile trail aid program will cost about $68,820 for winter 2025–26; the presenter said 100% of that cost is expected to be covered by the grant and that anticipated grant funds have been included in the county’s adopted 2025 budget. The resolution also authorizes the Jefferson County finance director to make any necessary budget adjustments if additional trail miles are added.

Supervisor Christiansen moved adoption of the resolution; Supervisor Tribble Heights seconded. Supervisor Jayco asked whether the funds have an alternative use in winters with little or no snow. A county staff member replied that much of the expenditure occurs before measurable snow and that staff would “find out” whether any alternative uses exist.

The board approved the resolution by voice vote. The meeting record does not show a roll-call tally for this vote.