Darlington infrastructure committee meets in closed session to evaluate builder submissions

Board President Bob Hermanson called the Darlington Community School District Infrastructure Committee to order at 5:00 p.m. on July 7, 2026. Committee member Crist moved, and Committee member Fink seconded, to convene into closed session under Wisconsin law to evaluate builder proposals and related negotiation strategy; the motion carried unanimously.

"to convene into closed session pursuant to Wis. Stat. s. 19.85(1)(e) for the purpose of evaluating builder submissions, interviewing builders, discussing negotiation strategy or price offers related to bids for building services, and considering potential contract negotiations where competitive and bargaining reasons require a closed session," — motion text moved by Committee member Crist. The closed-session motion referenced Wis. Stat. s. 19.85(1)(e), the state exemption permitting closed consideration of competitive bargaining matters.

After private deliberations, the committee reconvened in open session. The minutes state a recommendation for building services was discussed but record "No Action" taken in open session. The record does not show a contract award, vote tally by name, or next-step timeline for public disclosure of a recommended builder.

The committee's closed-session review is a standard step in procurement when discussion of bids and negotiation strategy could disadvantage the district if made public. Committee members present included Crist, Fink, Gratz and Zuberbuhler; other attendees listed were Stauffacher, Trout, Bryson, Flanagan and Austin.