Waukesha Board approves 2026 CIP design, two small change orders and notes leaf‑pickup delays

The Waukesha City Board of Public Works on Dec. 4 approved meeting minutes and several routine payments, adopted a resolution to move 2026 capital improvement projects into design and bidding, and approved two small contract change orders totaling $5,479.30.

At the start of the meeting the chair called roll and the board unanimously approved the minutes from Nov. 20, 2025. Staff then presented a packet of four payments and answered questions about two projects: the formal gardens park/rec project and the library HVAC upgrade. Brandon, a facilities staff member, told the board, "It is not a final payment. Work is still progressing," and said some curbing and elements could carry into spring because of early winter conditions.

The board adopted the annual resolution directing staff to produce plans and specifications and prepare 2026 CIP projects for bid. Alex, an engineering-division staff member who presented the resolution, said a map of projects will be finished and brought back at a future meeting.

The board approved a $2,012.30 change order for the drop-off center used-collection improvements project after staff described a previously omitted "thickened edge" of concrete required for a new steel cover structure. Alex stated that the thickened-edge concrete added about $3,500 in cost but value-engineering trimmed other items so "the total change order works out to $2,012.30."

Members also approved a $3,467 change order for the Schutze Building roof rehabilitation. Brandon said contractor Garland removed an abandoned brick chimney and uncovered deteriorated wood; the change order covered replacement of 11 sheets of plywood decking and some fascia work. Joel Piper moved to approve the change order and the board voted to carry it.

Board members asked whether tree trimming or removal should be coordinated when roofs are replaced; Brandon said facilities provides recommendations but parks/forestry staff make the removal decisions and staff will follow up.

On operations, engineering staff noted early snowfall buried leaf piles and likely requires a spring pickup window (March–April) to avoid turf damage. Alex described a recent equipment trial: "They're basically like a compact tractor type, very maneuverable though with a really powerful blower on it," which staff said made leaf collection faster and reduced physical strain on crews. A board member recommended public composting education to reduce curbside piles.

The meeting closed after a reminder about a scheduled Badger Transit tour the next day and a final question about the day's dollar totals. No new ordinances or appointments were introduced.

Votes at a glance - Item 3A (Approval of minutes, 11/20/2025): approved (ayes recorded: Cassens; Kevin Reilly; Piper; O'Donnell; Vande). - Payments batch (four payments): approved (ayes recorded in the transcript). - Item 5A (2026 CIP resolution directing production of plans/specs and preparation for bid): approved. - Item 6A (Change order — drop-off center used-collection improvements): change order approved; net change $2,012.30. - Item 6B (Change order — Schutze Building roof rehab): change order approved; amount $3,467.

What’s next: Staff will continue design and bid preparations for the 2026 CIP, follow up with library staff on funding options for a likely future HVAC change order, and coordinate with parks/forestry on tree issues raised during roof work. A Badger Transit tour is scheduled for the following day.