Middleton committee backs resolution to seek state grant for Pheasant Branch trail head

The Middleton Finance and Personnel Committee on a voice vote recommended that the full council approve Resolution 2026-05, authorizing staff to reapply to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Stewardship and Recreational Trail Program for grant funding to construct a trail head at Pheasant Branch Conservancy.

Alder Haneiro moved the recommendation, saying, “I move to recommend that council approve resolution 2026-05 after striking the final resolved paragraph in our packet.” Chair Lurman seconded the motion and the committee approved it. The packet as amended removes the final resolved paragraph at the committee’s request.

The committee discussed the project’s expected fiscal impact of $100,000. Staff said they anticipated primary funding would come from TIP district 5 and that the group would “hopefully be able to secure the grant.” Members asked whether the building design includes solar; staff confirmed solar is included in the current cost estimate even if not shown on the site drawing.

Committee members also proposed minor design additions and review steps. One member asked staff to consider adding a bubbler with a basin for dogs to the list of features, noting public use by dog walkers and possible bacterial concerns. Another member raised that the packet referred to the Conservancy Lands Committee (CLC) as a “commission” and questioned whether Parks should review the design, noting that Parks typically handles building projects.

The committee voted to recommend the resolution to council; the item will proceed for council consideration. Staff said they will pass suggested design considerations to project lead Kylie for follow-up.

Next steps: the recommended resolution will be presented to Middleton City Council for final action, and staff will continue to pursue the DNR grant application and incorporate the committee’s design suggestions where appropriate.