The City Council voted Dec. 15 to create an annual weights-and-measures license to recover inspection expenses for devices that calculate charges (for example: gas pumps, scales and pill-counting machines).

Staff and city economists explained that the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) performs inspections and invoices municipalities; the city historically paid those bills from the general fund. The new ordinance authorizes the city to assess a license fee (proposed at $25) so businesses rather than property taxpayers cover the recurring inspection costs (estimated $3,000–$4,000 annually).

Staff noted municipalities have several options: continue to contract with DATCP, subcontract with another municipality that runs a weights-and-measures program, or bring the function in house. Council adopted the ordinance after staff explained statutory flexibility and practical approaches used by peers.

Vote and next steps: The council waived reading and adopted the ordinance by roll-call vote. Staff will implement the licensing mechanism, set the administrative processes for fee collection, and determine whether to subcontract inspections or coordinate internally.

Quote from staff: "This just simply established standards by which we could then pursue that" (explaining the cost-recovery options and statutory basis).