Waunakee agrees to participate in cooperative-plan process under Wis. Stat. 66.0307; board moves to closed session to negotiate terms

The Waunakee Village Board on July 22 approved a resolution authorizing village participation in the preparation of a cooperative plan under Wisconsin Statute 66.0307 as discussions continue with the Town of Westport and other neighboring jurisdictions about incorporation and boundary issues.

Village staff said the resolution is an administrative step that does not bind the village to any final agreement; rather, it authorizes officials to participate in the statutorily prescribed cooperative-plan process that can lead to negotiated boundary, service and fiscal arrangements among municipalities. Todd and other staff said they have been meeting with Westport, Middleton, DeForest and Madison about possible cooperative-plan conversations tied to a pending incorporation petition.

Following the resolution’s adoption the board voted unanimously in roll call to convene in closed session under Wis. Stat. 19.85(1)(e) to deliberate or negotiate the purchasing of public property or the investing of public funds where competitive or bargaining reasons require a closed session. The board indicated the closed session would address potential cooperative-plan negotiation points related mainly to boundaries and other terms.

Action taken: Resolution authorizing participation in cooperative-plan preparation under Wis. Stat. 66.0307 was adopted by voice vote. The board then entered closed session by unanimous roll call; no final cooperative-plan terms were approved in open session.

Next steps: Staff and the board’s designated team will meet with representatives of the other municipalities as part of the cooperative-plan process and will report back to the board in open session following negotiation and public hearing steps required by statute.