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BID board debates who should pay water bills for downtown baskets; item set for next meeting
Summary
Board members discussed whether the BID or the nonprofit Roots and Branches should pay for three water meters that supply downtown hanging baskets and flower beds; the matter will return to the board agenda next month for staff to check utility rules and options.
Board members of the Downtown West Bend Business Improvement District debated whether the BID should continue paying for water meters used to irrigate downtown hanging baskets and flower beds and agreed to revisit the issue at the next meeting.
The discussion centered on three spigots currently paid through the BID contract. One speaker said the BID "donate[s] to beautify the downtown, not to pay for water," and recommended the board clarify whether the BID or Roots and Branches should cover those meter charges.
Staff described two options: keep the BID paying for one meter used by a contractor with an ATV water tank and either transfer the other two meters to Roots and Branches or record their cost as part of a larger donation to that nonprofit. Board members asked what would happen if Roots and Branches declined responsibility; staff said they would ask the municipal water utility whether unused meters could be turned off, but had not yet confirmed fees or procedures. The board directed staff to investigate and place the item on the next meeting agenda for decision.
Board members and staff emphasized the need for clearer line items in future bids and financial reports so the public and board understand what the BID funds cover. No formal motion changing who pays the meters was made; the discussion produced a staff assignment to consult the water utility and return with options.
The board also approved its financial report earlier in the meeting.
