City manager reports election filings, service changes and community notices

City Manager Hausman told the council on Jan. 6 that four candidates had filed for ballot access in the April 7 municipal election for two council seats: Bruce Johnson, John Giacarelli, Jenna Price and Nate Friedel. "Four candidates have completed paperwork and gained ballot access," Hausman said.

Hausman said the city’s contract with John's Disposal began on Jan. 2 and that GFL crews are in the city picking up garbage and recycling carts, including older carts from previous contractors. He advised residents to stop using old carts that are overloaded or unsafe for collection.

The manager provided community updates: the Main Street Dance Studio completed a nursing-home tour in December with 544 dancers performing at three nursing homes; an employee appreciation breakfast is scheduled for Jan. 7; and Officer Enrique Balderas will be sworn in on Jan. 8 before departing for the Wisconsin Law Enforcement Academy at Madison College on Jan. 12.

Hausman reminded residents to license dogs and cats by April 1 to avoid penalties. He said the clerk-treasurer office — four staff members — had collected about $13,800,000 in property taxes as of Jan. 5, representing roughly 50% of expected payments. The Dwight Foster Public Library is running a winter reading challenge through Jan. 31 with 168 people already signed up.

No formal action was taken on these notices; they were provided as informational items in the manager’s report.