Wausau ethics board authorizes counsel to negotiate stipulated facts, subject to board approval

The Wausau Ethics Board unanimously authorized Board Counsel Eric Larson to draft, propose and negotiate a statement of uncontested facts with complainants, the respondent, and counsel for unelected city officials — but the board added that any proposed stipulation must be subject to final board approval. Why it matters: agreed facts can shorten hearings by removing the need for testimony on uncontested points and focusing the proceeding on disputed legal and factual issues. Calvin framed the motion as an efficiency measure: if parties can agree to certain facts, “we don’t have to have testimony about them.” Attorney Larson said he would attempt to negotiate but cautioned he might not succeed and noted unelected officials likely would be witnesses rather than parties who would stipulate. Some members voiced concern about delegating too much fact‑finding to negotiators. Board member Robin asked that the board retain final say; the motion was amended on the floor to make any agreement “subject to board approval.” The motion, as amended, was moved, seconded, and adopted unanimously. What was decided: counsel is authorized to attempt stipulated facts agreements, but any proposed stipulation must be returned to the board for review and approval before it is treated as uncontested at hearing. Ending: counsel said he would circulate any draft stipulation to the chair for review and then to the clerk for distribution to members.