Interim administrator reports May finances; council approves $1.18M in claims; utility staffing changes announced
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Summary
Interim city administrator Jennifer presented the city’s five-month financial report ending May 31, 2025; the council approved $1,176,491 in claims and heard reports that the utility manager resigned and the wastewater foreman is retiring.
Interim city administrator Jennifer presented the city's financial report for the five months ending May 31, 2025, and the Portage City Common Council approved claims totaling $1,176,491 in a separate Finance and Administration action.
Financial report highlights presented by Jennifer and staff: - The general fund shared revenue receipts arrive in July and November, Jennifer noted; certain publication fees were posted incorrectly and will be corrected next month. - Street-related facilities revenue was higher due to a crosswalk project at Meeg's where billing/reimbursement timing affected revenues. - Fire billings and fire grants were reported higher year to date; fire expenses include engine repairs. - Staff reported total fund revenue year to date of about $6,096,000, representing roughly 63% of estimated revenues, and indicated overall spending is tracking at about 40%–45% of budget for this time of year. - Monthly bank ACH fees run around $50–$60; larger borrowing-related fees occur at the start of the fiscal year.
Personnel and operations updates were reported by Phil (department not specified): - "Our utility manager, Jared Royal took a job in the private sector. His last day of employment, so we're gonna be looking to look into that position," Phil said. - Phil also reported the unexpected retirement of wastewater foreman Tony Bortz after 34½ years; staff have started transition planning and will use Strand Associates for consulting support in the interim.
Action on claims: Council moved and approved payment of claims totaling $1,176,491. Roll-call votes recorded included Green (Aye), Paul (Aye), Schlinkert (Aye), Trantau (Aye), Wetzel (Aye), Bernander (Aye), Crowley (Aye) and Dunnehy (Aye); the motion passed.
Compensation/closed session: The council voted to convene in closed session under Wisconsin Statutes chapter 19.85(1)(c) to consider employment, promotion, compensation or performance evaluation data of a public employee (interim city administrator). Alderperson Bernander moved to enter closed session and Alderperson Paul seconded; roll-call votes were recorded and the motion passed.
Distinguishing discussion from decision: the financial figures and operational updates were presented for council review (discussion). The claim payments and the decision to enter closed session were formal council actions (decisions). The council did not announce a public decision on interim-administrator compensation during the open meeting; that item was moved to closed session.
Staff indicated they will return with any formal personnel decisions or compensation actions after the closed session and follow required reporting procedures.
