Around the Clock Winter 2025

City of Stoughton News

Cl

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Winter 2025

Mayors Corner

Since our September newsletter, winter has arrived and the holiday season is underway. Residents are encouraged to shop local.

Residents are reminded that snow emergency notifications are sent via email and posted on social media. Sign up is available on the City website.

Since September, the City Council has approved the 2026 budget. Approximately 70% of the operations budget supports salaries and benefits. The City has experienced record net new construction growth in three of the last four years, allowing progress toward addressing staffing needs in streets, parks, planning, police, and the library. A change in health insurance providers generated savings to help offset rising costs. Adjustments to other funds were made using the Cost Allocation Study, which will be updated in 2026. The EMS Enterprise Fund includes budgeted dollars to update pay for paid-on-call volunteer employees. No referendum or wheel tax was approved.

Over the past several months, Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) have focused on major investments such as buildings, vehicles, land, parks, and roads. Fire and Public Works capital items were reduced to free funding for land acquisition, and capital dollars are available to begin Phase 1 of the Riverfront project, Riverhavn.

Several development initiatives have advanced since September. At 51 West, most duplexes and condominiums are complete, with remaining single-family lots and commercial space available. Discussions continue regarding senior and additional multi-family housing. In Kettle Park West Phase 2, multiple single-family homes have been built and sold, and building permit applications remain ahead of last year’s record pace. The City has acquired additional parkland and completed the Tee Naasak Park Master Plan.

Construction has begun on Phase 2 of Magnolia Springs, and The Loft, a 17-unit downtown apartment complex, is complete and fully leased. The Authentix by Continental project (310 multi-family units across twelve buildings) closed on the land sale, and site preparation is underway. Planning has begun for a 30+ acre community park.

Since the last update, the Redevelopment Authority, Plan Commission, and City Council approved agreements with Alexander Co. for Phase 1 of Riverhavn, which includes 120 multi-family units. Mandt Park Master Plan Phase 2a is complete, including a new riverfront trail. Shelter construction and parking lot lighting are underway, and the City is pursuing an EV charger grant with Dane County.

Tim Swadley Mayor

New or expanded businesses since the last publication include Anytime Fitness, Santo Tequila Mexican Restaurant, Euro Garage, Wisconsin Dairy Products, and Ryan’s Retro Arcade.

Other notable accomplishments since September include an offer to purchase 27.8 acres on Williams Drive, updates to Arts and Central Business District zoning ordinances, revisions to stop sign and parking ordinances, continued work on the Stoughton Comprehensive Plan update, and completion of the Senior Center roof and solar panel installation.

I invite residents to join me for “Coffee with the Mayor” at the Senior Center and to follow the City of Stoughton, WI on Facebook.

207 S. Forrest St., Stoughton, WI 53589 • 608.873.6677 • cityofstoughton.com

Around the Clock

Winter 2025

We are Hiring!

Now Hiring Full and Part-Time Positions The City of Stoughton is recruiting many positions!

Come work for the city and make a difference in your community with our Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal and Fill-In positions!

Are you looking for a way to become an active member in your community?

Are you looking to meet new people and learn a new skill set at no cost to you?

Check out our Paid Volunteer Opportunities in the Fire Department or EMS!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Apply for all positions at

jobs.cityofstoughton.com 2

Winter 2025

Around the Clock

TDS 981 (HD) • Spectrum 981 • www.WSTO.tv Holiday Event Coverage WSTO TV recorded several community holiday events this season, and those recordings are available for residents to view online. Coverage allows viewers to enjoy local celebrations and community moments at their convenience.

Stoughton’s Community Media Weekly Show Times

Fresh Faces Programming WSTO TV’s Fresh Faces programming spotlights locally owned businesses.

Businesses interested in being featured are encouraged to reach out to WSTO to discuss the details of an appearance.

City Council Meetings LIVE 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 7pm Plan Commission LIVE 2nd Monday at 6pm Municipal Court LIVE 3rd Wednesday at 5pm Coffee With The Mayor LIVE 2nd Monday at 10am

Council Catch-Up Council Catch-Up provides a brief overview of recent City Council meetings, helping residents stay informed on local decisions and discussions. Episodes are available on WSTO TV and online for convenient viewing.

Getting Healthy with Holly Daily at 6am

Coffee with the Mayor Coffee with the Mayor airs live on WSTO TV, giving residents an opportunity to hear updates, ask questions, and engage directly with City leadership. Recordings are available for those unable to participate in real time.

Democracy Now! Mon - Fri at 7:00am & 2:00pm

Expanded Meeting Coverage WSTO TV will be expanding meeting coverage in the near future, increasing access to local government meetings and community information. Additional details will be shared as new programming and coverage become available.

More Local Content on Demand WSTO TV offers a wide range of local video-on-demand content, including past City Council and committee meetings, community events, school concerts, and other locally recorded programs available to watch anytime online. Residents can access these recordings through the WSTO TV website or streaming platforms, providing convenient access to community coverage at their own pace.

Knowledgeable Aging Daily at 6:30am

United Methodist Church Sundays at 10am Lakeview Church Sundays at 11am Good Shepard Church Sundays at 12pm Creature Features Fridays at 5pm Saturdays at 10pm Friday Night Movies Fridays 5pm - Midnight

City Social Media Accounts

Full Schedule at https://wsto.tv/schedule

Facebook: City of Stoughton Wisconsin, Police, Fire, EMS, Library, Stoughton Opera House, WSTO TV, Utilities, Stoughton Area Senior Center, Stoughton Recreation, Troll Beach, Gazebo Musikk, Youth Center Twitter: @StoughtonRec @WSTOTV Instagram: Library, Stoughton Opera House, Recreation, Utilities YouTube: WSTO TV, Senior Center WSTO Apps: Roku, AppleTV, FireTV, Android, iOS

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Around the Clock

Department of

Winter 2025 You may not know we were there, but you would know if we weren’t

Public Works 608-873-6303 • www.StoughtonPublicWorks.com Bulk Waste Collection

Christmas Tree Collection

Under the ‘bulk-on-call’ program, you have more flexibility to choose when you want your bulk items collected. Whenever you have bulk items to dispose of, simply call Johns Disposal to schedule a pick up.

Christmas trees must be put out on the You are allowed one bulk item collection per month. Please call 262-473-4700 to schedule the collection of your bulky items. You can terrace by 7:00am on the Monday of schedule your collection anytime during the month. the collection week listed below.

Bulk items will be collected within 7-days of when you place your call.

Please remove all bags, stands, Acceptable Bulk Items: lights, decorations, etc. from the • Furniture, Appliances, Large metal items tree before you set it out for • Carpeting (no wider than 4ft and rolled) • Extra garbage bags or garbage in personal cans collection.

• Tires (2 per home per month – 8 per year) • Cardboard (flattened & empty) January 5th • Drain oil & antifreeze (sealed in 1-5 gallon containers) January 12th • Paper & other recyclables should be in clear plastic bags • *NEW* Electronics (see approved list) January 19th • Humidifiers/De-humidifiers, Air Conditioners, Water Softeners Unacceptable Bulk Items: • Yard waste • Hazardous materials • Liquid paint • Loose bulk construction materials All items for bulk pick up should be placed within 2 feet of curbside and 6 feet from the carts. If you have a question about a specific item, please call Johns Disposal at 262-473-4700.

E-waste

Stoughton residents can dispose of up to two (2) qualified household electronics at the curb each year as part of the bulk on-call program.

Residents are currently afforded one bulk items collection per month for a total of 12 collections per year. Residents may substitute up to two (2) bulk item collections for qualified electronics collection. For example, a resident can set out 10 bulky items for 10 months and they can put out one (1) electronic item each of the other two months.

Just like the bulky collection, each e-waste collection must be scheduled by calling Johns Disposal at: 262-473-4700 If you have any questions about if an item can or can’t be set out, or to schedule a collection, please call John’s Disposal at 262-473-4700.

Office hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm & Saturday 8:00 am to Noon

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Around the Clock

Winter 2025

Winter is on our Doorstep - What can you do to prepare?

Love it or hate it, winter is on our doorstep. In Wisconsin, just like death and taxes, I can guarantee you that that it’s going to get cold, and at some point, it is going to snow. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the impending winter weather:

Have you noticed the great Holiday decor that was added to the downtown corridor?

Driving on Snow Covered or Icy Roads

When ice and snow are present on roadways, follow these safety tips to ensure your safety: • When travel is not necessary, Stay Home!

• If travel is necessary, give yourself extra time as traffic will be moving slower than normal when there is snow and icy road conditions.

• Stay back a safe distance from plow trucks and do not pass them.

• Clean off windows and scrape windows and mirrors to make sure you If you haven’t, we encourage you to check out can see. Use the defroster to keep windows clean. the hard work our Parks Department put into • Turn your lights on. Be visible. this work! Barrels of Holiday cheer are located • Take extra care when driving on bridges and overpasses, which can on the sidewalks up and down Main St. freeze before other road surfaces.

• Brake with care. Avoid jamming on the breaks. Use a “light touch” on the brakes to have a controlled deceleration and stop. Even if your vehicle has anti-lock braking, you should brake lightly to avoid skidding.

• SLOW DOWN! Be a Good Neighbor, Please shovel your sidewalks and curb ramps Sidewalks are a critical part of our City’s transportation system. Many residents and visitors rely on our network of sidewals to get critical supplies such as groceries and medical supplies or to simply get from one place to another.

Please remember an un-shoveled sidewalk or ramp may trap those in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues. These conditions may also slow down emergency responders from accessing a patient in need. Property owners on corner lots are also responsible for removing snow and ice from the curb ramps as well as snow or ice blocking the curb ramp.

City Ordinance 64-13 Snow and Ice Removal: It is the responsiblity of the occupant or owner of the parcel abutting the public sidewalk to remove snow and ice fron the sidewalk by 9:00am the second day following a snowfall.

Snow Emergency The declaration of a snow emergency will occur when three inches or more of snow is forecasted or three inches have fallen, or as conditions warrant.

Notice will be given to the police department and to the same Madison news outlets that the Stoughton Area School District uses for school closings.

Notice will also be posted on the street department web site and the local cable TV station.

During a snow emergency declaration, vehicles shall park only on the even side of the street on even-numbered days, and on the odd side of the street on odd-numbered days from midnight to 8:00 am. Remember that the date changes after midnight.

You can sign up to get an email notification when snow emergencies are declared. Type “Snow Emergency Notification” in the search box on the main page of the city website. Enter your email address and click “Submit” For more information about snow emergencies please visit: https://www.stoughtonpublicworks.com/snow

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Around the Clock

Winter 2025

Where and How to Place Your Garbage Can During Winter Heavy snow accumulation, icy roads and/or poor visibility can make it difficult for snowplows to avoid garbage cans placed alongside the road. When you dig out your driveway, be sure to dig out a spot for your garbage can.

Do not place garbage cans in the street. We understand this cleared area is an enticing location to place garbage cans, but it creates a hazard as they could get hit by vehicles or taken away by snowplows. We recommend that the garbage cans be placed at least 3 to 5 feet off the edge of the pavement, into your driveway, so they are out of the way of the snowplow or snow being pushed aside while the snowplow is doing down the road.

CORRECT How to be Salt Wise

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INCORRECT

Around the Clock

Winter 2025

Terrace Tree Trimming

The city is divided into 5 separate Forestry Work Zones. Each year one zone is trimmed to remove dead branches, provide adequate clearance above roadways and sidewalk, and to promote overall good tree health and structure. This winter/spring, Stoughton will be conducting tree trimming on terrace trees in the eastern section of the city (east of Page Street to city limits on the east side, and south of Main Street). All city-owned trees in the area pictured below will be trimmed. Any questions should be directed to City Forester John Kemppainen at 608-646-0414 or jkemppainen@cityofstoughton.com

From Leaves to Usable Compost Each year city crews collect roughly 930 tons of leaves curbside from homes and businesses in Stoughton. So what do we do with all those leaves? Well, we turn them into usable compost. The composting process takes about a year depending on weather conditions. We then run the composted material through a trammel screen to remove any rocks, trash or other inorganic material. Finished compost is then made available to city residents to use.

We also have wood chips available from our treecycling program. It is first come, first serve and you must supply and load your own containers.

You can get compost and wood chips from the yard waste site located at 1101 Collins Rd during the sites normal business hours. We also have wood chips available at Racetrack Park in the north parking lot off of Racetrack Rd. You do not need a yard waste permit to get compost or wood chips. You just need to be a Stoughton resident.

The process of Turning Leaves into Usable Compost

1 - Leaves are collected curbside from over 4.000 city residences

2 - Leaves are taken to the yard waste site and windwrowed

3 - Windrows are turned periodically to speed up the composting process

6 - Compost is free for city residents at the yard waste site when it is open

5 - The end product is compost that is rich in nutrients

4 - Compost material is run through a trammel to remove trash and other inorganic material

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Around the Clock

Winter 2025

2439 County Hwy A, Stoughton 608-873-6746 • www.StoughtonRec.com Parks Projects Update Mandt Park Construction of the new shelter is nearly halfway complete and is expected to wrap up this spring. The Riverwalk trail is now fully finished with landscaping installed, and the overall Mandt Park project remains on schedule for spring completion.

River Park Final plans for the Trail and Underpass Project have been submitted to the DNR and are currently under review. Once the review is complete, the City will move forward with public notification meetings—dates and times will be announced.

Greg Standard Legacy Park The playground, sport court, and trail system are fully installed. Shelter construction and overall park completion are planned for 2026.

Eggleson’s Woods Park The playground and trails are complete, and the new shelter installation is expected to finish any day. Benches will be added in the spring, marking full completion of the project.

Teigen Farms Park Wetland restoration work has been completed, asphalt trails are now in place, and solar panels have been installed to power the pond aerator—enhancing both park function and sustainability.

Stoughton Trailers Community Park Master planning for this new community park is underway. A Stoughton Trailers Community Park Concept Feedback Survey is live. Here residents can review concept ideas and provide input on future amenities and park design.

{YEL!} Winter Programs Recreation

Looking for activities, sports, and recreation opportunities for yourself or your family? The Stoughton Parks & Recreation Division offers a wide range of year-round programs designed to help residents stay active, try something new, and connect with the community. Whether you’re interested in youth sports like soccer, basketball, flag football, tennis, track, or pickleball, or arts and enrichment classes like painting, cooking, drama, STEM workshops, and more, there are programs for all ages and interests. Many activities are led in partnership with local instructors and organizations, making it easy to find something fun and engaging no matter your skill level.

Adults can also participate in recreational sports leagues, open play, and clinics in sports such as basketball, pickleball, softball, and tennis; these programs promote fitness, friendly competition, and community connections.

Visit the Recreation section of stoughtonrec.com to explore all offerings, review program descriptions, and register online. There’s something for everyone — from active sports to creative classes and community gatherings — so be sure to check back often for new activities and updates.

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Stoughton Area Youth Center The Stoughton Area Youth Center provides a variety of programs to support youth development, including academic support and character-building through the Fill the Gap initiative, homework help, tutoring, and mentoring. It also promotes healthy living with games, fitness activities, field trips, healthy snacks, and an employability-focused job training program for teens.

Gym Space

The second floor of the Stoughton Area Youth Center is the active floor of the building. This floor has a basketball hoop and plenty of space for Basketball or Football. This floor also contains games such as pool, Foosball, ping-pong and Carpetball.

Video Games

The Stoughton Area Youth Center has a Playstation 4 and 5 with age appropriate games and controllers that can be checked out for use. Donations of money, Games rated E to T and controllers are always needed. Also if you have a game system you would like to donate we would me more than happy to take it.

Board Games

The game closet at the Stoughton Area Youth Center has a huge stockpile of board games. These games are available for use and there is plenty of table space for these games to be played.

Lounge

The first floor of the Stoughton Area Youth Center is also used as a lounge area, where participants can relax and hang out with friends. There is a large variety of couches and chairs.

School Year hours:

3:00 - 6:00 PM Location: 567 E. Main Street Phone: 608-877-9980 Staff: Greg Hoyte ghoyte@cityofstoughton.com

Stoughton Parks & Recreation 2439 County Hwy A Stoughton, WI 53589 608-873-6746 www.stoughtonrec.com

Around the Clock

Planning & Development

Winter 2025

Chris Munz-Pritchard - Director • (608) 873-6619 • StoughtonPlanning.com

Private Property Snow and Ice Removal Requirements Sec. 64-13. Snow and ice removal. (a) The occupant or owner of any lot or parcel abutting on a public sidewalk, other than the parcels located in the downtown corridor specified in section 64-13(c), shall remove therefrom by 9:00 a.m. on the second day following a snowfall, all snow, dirt, rubbish or refuse matter, and sprinkle ice with a material to prevent slipping. (For example: a snowfall occurs on Monday, the occupant or owner would have until 9:00 a.m. Wednesday). If the occupant or owner does not comply with this section, the director of public works or their designee may issue a citation and may cause the work to be done and the expense reported to the city finance director, who shall annually enter such expense on the tax roll as a special tax against the lot or parcel of land. The owner or occupant shall also be subject to a forfeiture for each violation of this section, with penalties as set forth in section 1-3. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation. (b) No snow or ice removed from private property, other than the parcels located in the downtown corridor specified in section 64-13(c), shall be deposited in the public ways in areas expected to be cleared by the city. This would include, but would not be limited to, pushing snow or ice across a public roadway or sidewalk; pushing or carrying and depositing snow or ice on a public way expected to be maintained for pedestrian or vehicular traffic; and the blowing or throwing of snow or ice onto a pedestrian or vehicular area. Violation of any of these provisions may result in penalties as set forth in section 1-3. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation. If the occupant or owner does not comply with this section, the director of public works may cause the work to be done and the expense reported to the city finance director who shall annually enter such expense on the tax roll as a special tax against the lot or parcel of land. (c) The occupant or owner of any lot or parcel abutting a public sidewalk in the downtown corridor, specified below, shall remove therefrom all snow, dirt, rubbish or refuse matter to the curb line and sprinkle ice with a material to prevent slipping within 24 hours after the conclusion of a snowfall. Violation of any of these provisions may result in penalties as set forth in section 1-3. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation. If the occupant or owner does not comply with this section, the director of public works may cause the work to be done and the expense reported to the city finance director who shall annually enter such expense on the tax roll as a special tax against the lot or parcel of land.

“Downtown corridor” defined: Main Street-Railroad Track to S. Page Street Water Street-Jefferson Street to Washington Street Division Street-Jefferson Street to Washington Street Forrest Street-Jefferson Street to Washington Street Fourth Street-Jefferson Street to Washington Street IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS ISSUE PLEASE CONTACT THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT HERE

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Around the Clock

Winter 2025

Private Property Parking Standards for Recreational Vehicles NOTE: THESE STANDARDS ARE ONLY FOR PRIVATE PROPERTY, NOT FOR PARKING ON PUBLIC LANDS OR ANYWHERE IN THE STREET RIGHT-OF-WAY. A RECREATIONAL VEHICLE IS ANY OF THE FOLLOWING: MOTOR HOME, JETSKI, BOAT, ALL TRAILERS, CAMPERS, SNOWMOBILES, OFF-ROAD MOTORCYCLES, ATV’S AND SIMILAR VEHICLES. PARKING AND STORAGE OF RECREATIONAL VEHICLES AND TRAILERS IN RESIDENTIAL, OFFICE, AND BUSINESS DISTRICTS ARE PERMITTED IN THE FOLLOWING MANNER: Recreational vehicles and trailers: (a) Parked or stored within the front yard or side yard must be on a driveway that is made of a dust free, continual hard surface such as concrete or asphalt pavement and shall be a minimum of five feet from any private property line or right-of-way line. Permeable pavement including turfstone is also allowable. The side yard shall end at the rear of the home. (b) May be parked in the rear yard, beyond the rear of the home without the need for a hard surface, subject to all other conditions.

Note: Corner lots have two fronts. (c) Shall be owned by the resident who is occupying the property on which the vehicle or trailer is parked or stored. (d) Are permitted only for storage purposes except mobile homes and campers may be used for overnight sleeping for a maximum of 14 days in one calendar year. (e) May not be connected to wastewater or sanitary sewer lines, or electricity except for charging of batteries. (f) May not be used for storage of goods, materials or equipment other than those items considered to be part of the unit or essential for its use. (g) Shall be placed a minimum of five feet from all property lines and shall not be parked within any easement. (h) Maximum number allowed outside of a building per property is three unless the property is zoned and approved for such outdoor storage. (i) A trailer with multiple recreational vehicles on it shall be considered one recreational vehicle, but all recreational vehicles on the trailer shall be owned by the resident occupying the property on which the trailer is parked. (j) Individual canoes, kayaks and similar vehicles not on a trailer are exempt from these requirements.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS REGULATION PLEASE CONTACT THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR AT 608-646-0421.

Get Involved - Be Informed Curious about how decisions are made in Stoughton? Many of the projects, developments, and policies that shape our community are discussed and decided during public meetings — and community voices play an important role in those conversations.

The Plan Commission oversees the Planning Department and reviews new development proposals, zoning changes, and long-range planning projects. The City Council then reviews and votes on many of those recommendations.

Meeting Schedule Plan Commission – Live on WSTO the 2nd Monday of each month at 6:00 PM City Council – Live on WSTO the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month at 7:00 PM How to Watch All meetings stream live on WSTO (Charter/Spectrum Channel 981 in Stoughton) Meetings are also available on-demand at wsto.tv You can also find recordings on WSTO’s YouTube channel How to Find Agendas & Materials Agendas and packets are posted online at stoughtoncitydocs.com How to Participate Members of the public are welcome to attend meetings in person To speak during a meeting, sign up online or reach out to that committee’s chair Public comment happens at the start of the meeting, and comments are limited to 3 minutes per person

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Participating in public meetings is one of the best ways to stay informed, understand how decisions are made, and help shape the future of our community. Even if you can’t attend live, watching the recordings is a great way to stay connected and up-to-date on what’s happening in Stoughton.

Around the Clock

Winter 2025

Read past editions of Around the Clock

at newsletter.cityofstoughton.com

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Around the Clock

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Winter 2025

Around the Clock Winter 2025 Your resource for saving energy & money 600 S. Fourth St • StoughtonUtilities.com • 608.873.3379

Holiday Season Office Hours The Stoughton Utilities office will be closed to walk-in and telephone customers during the upcoming holiday season on the holidays or observed holidays when they fall on a weekend. Office hours are as follows.

Wednesday, December 24: Closed Thursday, December 25: Closed Friday, December 26: Closed Thursday, January 1: Closed In case of an electric, water, or wastewater emergency, please contact our after-hours call center at (608) 873-9322 at any time 24/7 to have our on-call staff dispatched.

You can still view and pay your utility bill online, as well as review and compare your energy and water consumption, by logging in to My Account.

To make a payment by phone, please call us at (608) 873-3379 during normal business hours.

You can also drop off check payments using our night deposit box which is located near the curb at 600 S. Fourth St., in front of the Stoughton Utilities building. Please be sure to include your payment stub (located on your bill).

Have a happy and safe holiday season!

Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program As a customer of Stoughton Utilities, you may be eligible for the State of Wisconsin’s Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP). This program was established to help members of our state with limited financial resources to cover their winter energy costs, including both electricity and natural gas or other heating fuels.

WHEAP electric (non-heating) assistance is a one-time benefit payment during the heating season of October 1-May 15. The funding pays a portion of the household’s costs, but the payment is not intended to cover the entire cost of the non-heating costs, and will not cover any part of your water or wastewater charges.

The amount of the non-heating assistance benefit varies depending on a variety of factors, including the household’s size, income, and non-heating costs. In most cases, the non-heating assistance benefit is paid directly to Stoughton Utilities, and is applied to future bills to reduce the required monthly payment.

If you live in a dwelling that is heated using electricity instead of gas or oil, then you are may also be eligible for WHEAP heating assistance. This is an additional one-time payment during the heating season that pays a portion of your heating costs.

Under the eligibility requirements, customers at or below 60 percent of the state’s median income may qualify for WHEAP assistance. Income guidelines are shown here. If you are approved for energy assistance through WHEAP, you will receive bill payment assistance for both your Alliant Energy natural gas bill (or other heating provider), as well as your Stoughton Utilities electric bill.

To apply for energy assistance, please visit energybenefit.wi.gov, or contact Energy Services Inc. at (866) 432-8947 to schedule an appointment. You may apply anytime from October 1 through May 15, but funds are limited and appointments fill up quickly so we recommend contacting them as soon as possible to complete your application!

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Around the Clock

Winter 2025

Keep Your Fire Hydrants Clear

Help protect your home and neighborhood by clearing around fire hydrants after every snowfall.

Snow accumulation is the result of plowing and snow clearing, and can completely cover or restrict access to fire hydrants. Although we haven't yet had much snow, it'll come eventually -- after all, it is Wisconsin. When the snow does start to fall, cold temperatures can limit melting, which may result in snow-covered hydrants throughout the city. Hydrants covered in snow means a slower response time when responding to and extinguishing fires. This can result in catastrophic consequences if firefighters have to spend time locating a buried hydrant and/or clearing snow away from it, especially if the snow is heavily compacted from snow plowing and frigid temperatures. Keep in mind that firefighters need to access the sides of the hydrant, not just the top.

A hydrant covered in snow like the one pictured is not usable and will require the firefighters to dig it out, which wastes valuable time when responding to a fire.

What should you do?

If you have a fire hydrant in front of or adjacent to your home or business, please clear all the snow at least three feet around it on all sides after every snowfall. Make sure that the hydrant is easily visible from the road, and that there is enough room for firefighters to maneuver around it to easily connect fire hoses to it. The more often the snow is cleared, and the sooner it is cleared after a fresh snow, the easier it is.

Adopt A Hydrant

Remember, it's the entire neighborhood's responsibility to keep their hydrants clear, since all properties benefit from the protection they provide. If there is a hydrant in your neighborhood that isn't being cleared by the homeowner, or if you know of an elderly or disabled homeowner that struggles to clear snow, then "adopt a hydrant" and make it part of your shoveling and snow clearing routine. It will only take a few extra minutes, and is a quick and easy way to help the Stoughton Fire Department help you and your neighbors should a fire ever occur.

Look for Air Leaks, and Stay Warm You tell your kids they’re heating the Great Outdoors when they don’t keep the windows shut or close the door behind them. You could be doing the same thing without even knowing it. Your heated indoor air could be leaking out of your house through the tiny cracks and holes around phone lines, electrical outlets, plumbing pipes, and around windows and doors.

Now that the warm weather of summer and autumn is giving way to the cooler temperatures and harsh winds of winter, it’s important to prepare your home for the change in seasons. Finding and sealing the air leaks that create drafty cold spots in your home is a simple home maintenance chore that can potentially save you 5% to 30% in heating costs over the winter.

Take a walk around the outside of your house and you may see little gaps where the inside light shines through around window frames, wall-mounted air conditioners, exhaust vents and more. To find the cracks and holes too small to see, close all your windows and doors, turn on your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans, and then hold a smoke stick or lit incense stick near each door, window, and exterior wall outlet. If the smoke rises undisturbed, then you are leak free, but if the rising smoke is noticeably disturbed, then you have a small hole or crack to fill.

Once you find the locations where cold air is leaking in, seal them with caulk or weather stripping to keep your warm air indoors where it belongs.

Is it Flushable?

What we put down our drains and toilets can negatively impact the environment and our wastewater system. Even items labeled as “flushable” can clog pipes, tangle pumps, and result in messy and costly sewer backups into homes and businesses. Help us avoid unnecessary maintenance and prevent sewer backups by not putting any product other than toilet paper in toilets or down drains.

Please do not flush any of the following products down toilets, or put them down the drain:

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• “Flushable” wipes • Disinfectant wipes • Paper towels • Cotton balls • Grease and oil

• Diapers • Baby wipes • Sanitary products • Tissues • Towels

Around the Clock

Winter Utility Bills Winter is here, and Stoughton Utilities would like to remind our customers of the importance of paying their monthly utility bills during the winter months. Each month, Stoughton Utilities has to pay our wholesale power provider for the electricity that we distribute to Stoughton homes and businesses, even if those customers don’t pay us. Unpaid bills contribute to increased utility rates for all customers.

Making an effort to keep your account balance under control during the winter months is very important. Here are some tips to help keep your winter electric costs manageable:

Winter 2025 Utility Rate Projections Costs are rising, and unfortunately, that means that our utility rates are projected to increase over the next 5 years as well. As your locally-owned public utility, we are working to keep costs as low as possible while also recognizing that as our city grows we need to continue to plan for the future. Much of our utility infrastructure is reaching the end of its working life, requiring replacement and/or upgrades.

Visit stoughtonutilities.com/rateprojection for more information on anticipated utility rates, as well as a full list of upcoming capital improvement projects.

•If you are finding it difficult to make the monthly payment, please keep in mind that even partial payments will help keep your balance from growing out of control. Try to pay as much of your bill as you can each month. You can also make weekly payments to keep the payment amounts manageable. Paying online is quick and easy using MyAccount.

•We can work with you to establish a deferred payment agreement to address your balance. These agreements require a down payment, and then regular installment payments until the balance is paid.

•Apply for Energy Assistance. Eligible customers will receive a one-time benefit to help cover their winter electrical expenses. The average benefit received is approximately $666* per season! Visit energybenefit.wi.gov or contact Energy Services Inc. at (866) 432-8947 to complete the application.

•To help you avoid seasonal bill fluctuations and maintain a predictable monthly utility payment, we offer a Budget Billing program. This program allows you to pay a fixed amount each month, making it easier to plan your household expenses. The payment amount is determined by calculating the average of your monthly charges, ensuring that your payment remains consistent throughout the year. You can easily find out what your Budget Billing amount would be and enroll or cancel your participation at any time. Simply log in to MyAccount online or contact our customer service team by phone for assistance.

•Consider enrolling in AutoPay and having your monthly bill automatically deducted each month. Enrollment is simple and can be done online by logging in to MyAccount.

Failing to keep up with your account during the winter months can have serious repercussions, potentially including one or more of the following: •By not paying during the winter, you will inevitably find yourself with a very large balance due in the spring. If the average customer with a $150 monthly bill goes all winter without paying anything, they will owe over $1,000 in April, and that balance may be required to be paid in full or result in a disconnection of service.

•Failure to pay your winter bills may cause Stoughton Utilities to require a mandatory security deposit to be posted on your account. The deposit required for customers who do not pay during the winter will be the total of the four highest consecutive month’s bills during the last 12 months of service. Using the average $150 monthly bill, you may be required to pay a security deposit of $600 or more in April, and that’s in addition to your full past-due balance.

•Stoughton Utilities may choose to take you to small claims court for any delinquent balance, where we may seek damages of up to three times the unpaid balance.

•Stoughton Utilities may submit your account to the Wisconsin Working outdoors during Wisconsin winters is challenging Department of Revenue (DOR) for collections through the State Debt for utility crews, and unsafe driving in work zones increases Collection Initiative. The DOR will attempt to deduct payment from the risk to those maintaining essential services. Whether your state tax refund, garnish your wages, or place a bank levy on the responding to power outages or repairing water main breaks, crews funds in your checking or savings account. In addition, the DOR will rely on drivers to slow down and use caution. charge an additional fee of 15% of the unpaid balance.

Give Them a Brake!

Aggressive or inattentive driving in work zones puts lives at risk. More than 800 people are killed each year in road work zones across the United States. A few seconds saved is never worth a serious injury or loss of life.

If you have questions about your bill, would like to sign up for our Budget Billing program, or need to establish a deferred payment arrangement for your delinquent balance, please give us a call at (608) 873-3379.

Residents are reminded to drive safely through work zones by slowing down, watching for changing traffic patterns, minimizing distractions, following posted signs, maintaining safe distances, planning ahead, and always wearing a seatbelt.

*Average benefit for qualifying resident during 2022/2023 heating season. Benefit is based on household size, income, utility costs, and overall need.

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City Clerks Office

Candee J. Christen, WCMC - Stoughton City Clerk • www.StoughtonCityClerk.com • 608.873.6677

Voting Information

Licensing Updates

Voter Registration

Dog Licensing

Have you moved recently? Had a name change? Not sure if you’re registered?

Now is the perfect time to check your voter registration to be ready for the 2026 elections.

Visit myvote.wi.gov to: •Register for the first time •Check your current registration •Update your address or name •Learn more about voting in Wisconsin Registering by mail?

Include proof of residence such as: •Utility bill •Paycheck stub •Bank/credit card statement •Unexpired WI Driver License/ID with current address

Absentee Ballots Wisconsin voters have several safe and secure options for casting a ballot — including voting absentee.

Who can request?

Any registered voter who cannot, or prefers not to, vote in person on Election Day. Timing: •Requests must be made after January 1 of the election year.

•A new request is required for 2026, even if you made one in a prior year.

•You may request for a specific election or the full calendar year.

Deadline: •5:00 PM on the Thursday before an election •Request early — ballots can take up to a week to arrive by mail.

•A photo ID must be included with your request.

Special Voting Deputies Special voting deputies are assigned to assist residents with absentee ballots at: •Skaalen •Nazareth Health & Rehab Center •Milestone Senior Living •Stoughton Meadows •Kettle Park Senior Living Deputies visit twice per election, with dates and times posted in each facility’s common areas.

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Dog license renewals will begin mid-December.

Please note: you must be a City of Stoughton resident to license your dog through the City of Stoughton. Not sure if you live within city limits? Give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.

•Expiration Date: All dog licenses expire on December 31, 2025.

•Renewal Notices: Invoices will be emailed (via iWorQ, our online licensing portal) mid-December to residents with an email address on file.

•Rabies Certificate: If your dog’s vaccination is expired or nearing expiration, please provide an updated rabies certificate. Without it, your license renewal will be delayed.

•How to Renew: Online: City of Stoughton License Portal In Person: City Hall Kiosk Monday–Thursday: 8:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

Friday: 8:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m.

Bees & Chickens

NEW INFORMATION FOR 2026:

New Applications for bees and chickens MUST be made in order to be licensed. For new bee or chicken applications please visit https://www.cityofstoughton.com/applications for an application.

After initial application and approval or for already licensed bees and chickens, no yearly renewals are needed. However, if you receive a new DATCP number a copy of the certificate needs to sent to: licenses@cityofstoughton.com.

How to Request an Absentee Ballot

•Online: myvote.wi.gov •By Mail: 1.Download the Absentee Ballot Request Form 2.Mail to: City Hall 207 S. Forrest St. Stoughton, WI 53589 Forms are only accepted by mail.

Indefinitely Confined Voters

If you are confined to your home due to age, illness, or disability, you may request an indefinitely confined absentee ballot.

•Once approved, ballots are sent automatically for all elections.

•Requests may be made at myvote.wi.gov or by mailing the Absentee Ballot Request Form.

Election Dates - 2026

•February 17, 2026 – Spring Primary (if necessary) 7:00AM to 8:00PM •April 7, 2026 – Spring Election 7:00AM to 8:00PM •August 11, 2026 – Partisan Primary 7:00AM to 8:00PM •November 3, 2026 – General Election 7:00AM to 8:00PM

Around the Clock

Winter 2025 Educate, Enrich, Empower, Engage!

304 South Fourth Street, Stoughton, WI 53589 • 608.873.6281

StoughtonPublicLibrary.org • Open Monday - Thursday 9am - 8pm • Friday 9am - 6pm • Saturday 9am - 5pm • Sundays 1pm - 5pm Winter holiday closings: The Library will be closed Wednesday, December 24, and Thursday, December 25. We will also be closed Wednesday, December 31, and Thursday, January 1.

No materials are due on these dates.

Upcoming Events Help Package Free Native Plant Seeds!

Saturday, January 3, 1-2 PM - Carnegie Room This winter, the library and Sustainable Stoughton are partnering with Dane County Land & Water Resources to share free native Wisconsin plant seeds with the community. The seeds were collected by Dane County Parks volunteers and are best sown in the fall to overwinter outdoors. We need volunteers to help package the seeds so library patrons can take them from our Library of Things area on the top floor and plant them! Seeds will be available later in January. Space is limited and registration is required. Adults and teens, as well as accompanied children ages 8 and up, are invited to register here Yoga Sundays Sundays Jan 4, Feb 1, Mar 1 & Apr 12, 10-11 AM - Stoughton Yoga, 101 Silverado Dr. Presented in partnership between the library and Stoughton Yoga. Have you always wanted to try yoga? We'll focus on breath and gentle movement in these classes which are perfect for beginners and all levels. We recommend you bring a blanket or towel, but the studio can loan you any other props you need, even a mat. This class is for adults (ages 14+). Space is limited and registration is required for this free class, starting September 7 at 11am Thru-Hiking the John Muir Trail: From Planning to Completion Sunday, January 11, 2-3 PM - Carnegie Room Join us on this wintry day to dream about a future John Muir Trail hike in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. Longtime local resident and outdoors enthusiast Steve Jackson will share what he learned from his own trip—everything from permits, routes, and challenges, to beautiful photos and lessons he learned along the way. Steve looks forward to answering your questions if you’re considering your own trip. We encourage you to register for an email or text reminder for this free program, but it's not required Virtual Author Visit: How To Know a Person with David Brooks Tuesday, January 13, 1-2 PM - Online Join us for an online discussion with prominent cultural writer and bestselling author David Brooks on his book, How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply, in which he helps us pose essential questions: If you want to know a person, what kind of attention should you cast on them? What kind of conversations should you have? What parts of a person’s story should you pay attention to? Register, submit questions for the author in advance, or view the presentation or recording here Writing Group Tuesdays, Jan 13, Feb 10, Mar 10 & Apr 14, 4:30-5:30 PM - Carnegie Room Are you a writer looking to connect with your local community and receive gentle support to improve your work? Come to our volunteer-run writing group on the second Tuesday of each month from 4:30-5:30 PM. Adults, as well as teens 16+, are invited to attend. Writers may bring a two-page piece to share. No registration required, but if you’d like to receive an email reminder about the group, please sign up here

Virtual Author Visit: Nature, Art, and Service as Medicine with Journalist Julia Hotz Tuesday, January 26, 1-2 PM - Online Be sure to jump start your new year with us as we chat virtually with journalist and author Julia Hotz about her book The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging. Register, submit questions for the author in advance, or view the presentation or recording here Virtual Author Visit: Liz Moore, author of The God of the Woods Wednesday, January 28, 6-7 PM - Online Liz Moore’s multi-threaded novel The God of the Woods invites readers into a rich and gripping dynasty of secrets and second chances. Join us to discuss this instant New York Times bestseller with the author. Register, submit questions for the author in advance, or view the presentation or recording here Intro to Backyard Chickens and Poultry Sunday, February 8, 2-3 PM - Carnegie Room Local veterinarian and poultry expert Julia Naber will answer your questions and teach you how to get started with backyard chickens, ducks, or other poultry. This program is geared toward adults, but please bring along your children and teens who are also interested. Registration is suggested but not required.

Intro to Vegetarianism Tuesday, February 17, 5:30-6:30 PM - Carnegie Room or Zoom Presented in partnership between the library and Stoughton Health.

Are you thinking of adopting a vegetarian or flexitarian lifestyle, but don't know where to start? Or are you already a vegetarian, but you're worried about getting enough protein? Clinical Dietician Autumn Kumlien will advise you how to adopt a vegetarian way of eating that works with your busy schedule. Can’t join us live? Join us via Zoom or watch the recording, which will be available through March 17.

Registration is encouraged but not required.

Stoughton’s Friendly Giant, Bob Homme Sunday, March 8, 2-2:45 PM - Carnegie Room Local teacher Patrick Collins will share the story of Bob Homme who spent his childhood and teen years in Stoughton. As an adult, he moved to Canada and became a children’s television celebrity, The Friendly Giant. Learn how this Stoughton local inspired many people with his gentle storytelling.

Registration is recommended but not required.

New programs and events are being added all the time!

For the most-up-to-date information, visit our online calendar here

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Storytimes & Activies for Teens & Kids Teen Pop-Tart Houses Thursday, December 18, 3:30-5 PM - Carnegie Room It’s like a gingerbread house, except made with Pop-Tarts! Ages 11-16. All supplies provided by the library. No registration required for this free class.

Bread in a Bag Monday, December 22, 2-3 PM - Carnegie Room Make your own bread dough in a bag and take it home to bake fresh bread! Geared to ages 6-10.

Noon Year’s Countdown Tuesday, December 30, 11:30AM – 12PM - Carnegie Room Party with us with some tunes, snacks, and activities as we count down to Noon! Geared to ages 0-6, but all ages welcome.

Stoughton Teen Advisory Board Monday, January 5, 4-5 PM - Carnegie Room Teens ages 11-16 are invited to help plan upcoming library programs and activities. No registration required. Ask for an application at the top floor Information Desk if you’re interested, or come to the meeting to learn more.

Graphic Novel Book Club Tuesdays, Jan 6, Feb 3, Mar 3 & Apr 7, 3:30 PM - Carnegie Room Join to discuss a graphic novel and do a related activity. Books will be available a month before we meet. Geared to Ages 6-11.

Teen Kandi Beads Thursday, January 8, 3:30-5 PM - Carnegie Room Hang out and make Kandi Bead bracelets. All supplies are provided by the library. No registration is required for this free program. Ages 11-16.

Friday Free Play Fridays, Jan 9, Jan 30 & Feb 13, 9:30-11AM - Carnegie Room Playtime in our large downstairs room with blocks, tunnels, and imaginative toys!

Story Time at the Library Mondays and Thursdays, January 12 to March 19, 9:30 AM - Carnegie Room Join us on Monday and/or Thursday mornings for stories, songs, activities, and a simple craft. No registration required. Recommended for ages 2-6, but older and younger children are more than welcome!

Baby Story Time Wednesdays, January 14 to March 18, 9:30 AM - Carnegie Room Join us for rhymes, fingerplays, songs and stories and activities! Ages 0-2.

Dungeons & Dragons Wednesdays, Jan 14, Feb 11, Mar 11, Apr 8, 3:30-5 PM - Carnegie Room Play some Dungeons and Dragons and make new friends! No experience necessary. Character sheets and dice provided. Ages 8-14.

Teen Taste Test: Candy Around the World Thursday, January 15, 3:30-5 PM - Carnegie Room Teens 11-16 are invited to test candy from all corners of the globe and decide which one is their favorite. No registration is required for this free program.

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Friday Family Fun Yoga Fridays, Jan 16, Feb 20, Mar 13, Apr 17, 6:00-6:45 PM - Stoughton Yoga, 101 Silverado Dr. Enjoy a free family yoga class presented in partnership between Stoughton Yoga and the Stoughton Public Library. These playful beginner-level classes are designed for children ages 6 and up and their caregivers. We recommend you bring a blanket or towel, but the studio can loan you any other props you need, even a mat. Registration for this free class is required and begins on December 19 Pokémon Club Tuesdays, Jan 20, Feb 17, Mar 17 & Apr 21, 3:30 PM Carnegie Room Join fellow Pokémon fanatics for Pokémon related activities and meet-up. Ages 6-11.

Stitches Wednesdays, Jan 21, Feb 18, Mar 18 & Apr 15, 3:30-4:30 PM - Carnegie Room Do you knit, crochet, cross stitch, embroider, make friendship bracelets, etc? Would you like to learn how to do any of those thing? All experience levels are welcome to hang out and make something with yarn and embroidery thread! Learn a new skill, finish a project, or teach someone your favorite skill! Ages 8-16 Teen Clay Creations Thursday, January 22, 3:30-5 PM - Carnegie Room Express your creative side with clay! All materials are provided by the library. No registration is required for this free program. Ages 11-16.

Saturday Story Time Saturday, January 24, 10 AM - Carnegie Room A weekend story time all about snow! Geared to ages 2+ but all are welcome.

Level Up Gaming Wednesday, January 28, 3:30-4:45 PM - Carnegie Room Come play with us! We have a variety of board games as well as a Nintendo Switch. Ages 9-14. No registration required.

Teen Puzzle Time Thursday, January 29, 3:30-5 PM - Carnegie Room It’s winter, which means it’s the perfect time to hang out and work on puzzles together. Teens ages 11-16 are invited to join us for this free program. No registration required.

Winter Reading Program Get cozy and earn grand prize tickets for reading this winter! Children ages 0-10, stop by the first floor Children’s Desk to pick up your log.

Teens (ages 11-17) and adults, stop by the top floor Information Desk to pick up yours. Be sure to turn in your logs by January 31!

Around the Clock

Winter 2025 Historic Stoughton Newspapers Now Available Online

The Friends of the Stoughton Public Library is a non-profit organization devoted to promoting and improving library services, materials, and facilities for the Stoughton community; encouraging gifts and bequests to the library; and promoting the broadest possible use of Library facilities, materials and services.

Thanks to a partnership between our library and Newspapers.com, historic Stoughton newspapers through 1930 are now available online!

Friends’ membership levels range from $10 to $100 a year. In addition to becoming a member, you can help out with book sales, fundraisers, and more. For more information about joining the Friends, visit their new website at friendsofstoughtonlibrary.org

Once you’ve logged in to Newspapers.com, the easiest way to find Stoughton newspapers is to click “Papers” in the upper-left corner of the screen and type “Stoughton” in the box labeled “Filter by paper or location.” From there you can click on “Search within” to search within the Stoughton papers.

Click here to access Newspapers.com – World Collection. You will be prompted to select your library and enter your library card number.

Visit the Friends’ Book Nook!

Purchase new and gently used books from the Book Nook on the library’s Mezzanine level, near the window facing Main Street. Cash payments can be deposited in the lockbox attached to the cart.

Mark your calendars for a special Friends fundraiser on Sunday, March 15, 2026, when the library will be transformed into a mini-golf course! More details will be available soon here

Getting a Library Card There is no charge for a library card – just provide a picture ID with proof of current address. If your ID does not list your current address, please provide another proof of address such as a piece of mail, personal check, utility bill, etc. Parents must sign the registration form for children under age 16.

Now you can apply for a library card online! Go to stoughtonpubliclibrary.org/get-library-card, complete our secure online form and we’ll let you know when your card is ready to pick up. Inquiries about library cards can be emailed to storef@stolib.org For more information, visit us online at www.stoughtonpubliclibrary.org, on Facebook and Instagram, or call our information desk at 873-6281.

We are working to make additional years available, so be on the lookout for future updates! This project was made possible by an anonymous donation from members of our community. Looking for something more recent? Issues of the Courier-Hub from 2005-Present with an embargo of 60 days are available through the Archive of Wisconsin Newspapers.

Book Discussion Groups Our three book discussion groups meet most months in the library’s lower-level Carnegie Room. For details on meeting locations and book selections, please check our events calendar at stolib.org/calendar/month Page Turners – This group meets on the odd-numbered months to discuss a variety of general interest titles, both nonfiction and fiction. It usually meets the fourth Tuesday and Wednesday of each odd-numbered month, once at the library and again at the Stoughton Senior Center. Please see the library’s online calendar for more details.

Specs – This is the Library’s newest book group, exploring a mix of speculative fiction (science fiction/fantasy/horror). The group meets the fourth Wednesday of each even-numbered month at 6:30 PM Tuesdays With Murder is the Library’s mystery and crime fiction book discussion group. Now in its eighth year, the group reads mostly crime and murder mystery novels, but also dabbles in short stories and true crime. Meetings are the fourth Tuesday of each even-numbered month at 6:30 PM, with no meeting in December.

Library Services

The Stoughton Public Library is here to assist you with your personal, business and schoolwork needs.

-Reference staff to help you find information -Meeting and study space available -Computer Workstations -Internet -Connect to the Stoughton Area School District network -MS Office software -Use your flashdrive (available for purchase) -Scan documents -Print (black and white, 15 cents per page)

-Free Wireless Internet -Database access -Black and white photocopier -One-on-one training for Overdrive -Electricity meters to test the wattage your appliances use per year. Ask at the second floor Information Desk to check out a kit.

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Additional Library Services Streaming Video from Kanopy

Kanopy is a streaming video service available to all Stoughton Public Library cardholders. Stream over 30,000 films instantly. No holds lists, no waiting. All you need is a your library card.

Hit movies, classics, award winners, world cinema, indies, documentaries, and more! Plus Kanopy Kids and lectures in the Great Courses™ series.

For more information on how Kanopy works and how to create an account, visit stolib.org/kanopy

Libby

The Digital Library is always open! Download the free Libby app on your phone or mobile device to start downloading eBooks and audio books from the Wisconsin Public Library Consortium’s Collection. You can also browse the collection of nearly 100,000 downloadable eBooks and audio books at wplc.overdrive.com.

Users of Libby also have access to thousands of magazine titles! Click or tap on the Collections option at the top of the screen to browse periodicals in over a dozen categories.

Titles include: Better Homes & Gardens, Bon Appétit, Clean Eating, Cook’s Illustrated, The Economist, Harper’s, HGTV Magazine, House Beautiful, In Touch Weekly, The New Yorker, Newsweek, Reader’s Digest, Rolling Stone, Us Weekly, Vogue and more!

If you need help obtaining or renewing a library card to use Libby, please call the library’s information desk at 608-873-6281 or email storef@stolib.org Access any of the following resources by visiting stolib.org/resources.

Many of these sites require you to enter a valid Stoughton Public Library card number.

NEW! ChiltonLibrary – your one stop for car repair and maintenance information!

Find repair, maintenance, and service information for most cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs, including step-by-step procedures, diagnostic and troubleshooting help, and a video library.

Library cardholders have full subscriber access to thousands of product reviews and buying guides through ConsumerReports.org.

Stream hundreds of art & craft classes for free anytime from the comfort of your home. Go to creativebug.com/lib/stoughtonlibrary and enter your library card number and PIN to get started.

Transparent is a free online language learning resource featuring: • Courses, grammar materials, and more in 110 languages (and growing!)

• Extensive English-as-a-second-language (ESL) materials for speakers of over 30 languages • Reading, writing, listening, and speaking activities help you learn the vocabulary and skills needed to communicate effectively in a foreign language • Age-appropriate courses for young learners with KidSpeak, an immersive, animated language-learning program in 6 languages for grades K-2 (and growing!)

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Around the Clock Winter 2025 Stoughton Area Senior Center 248 W. Main St • 608-873-8585 • www.StoughtonSeniorCenter.com Social & Recreational Activities Bridge Tuesdays, 9:30 AM Cribbage Mondays, 1:00 PM Euchre, cost $1 to play 2nd Friday, 1:00 PM Five Hundred, cost $2 to play Tuesdays 1:00 PM

In Wisconsin, having a POA-HC is especially important—family members are not automatically allowed to make health care decisions for you. Without this document, your loved ones may face a costly and stressful court process to appoint a guardian, and the final decision-maker may not be someone you would have chosen.

When selecting your health-care agent, choose someone who understands your values, respects your wishes, and can act confidently in an emergency.

The State of Wisconsin’s POA-HC form and a Do-It-Yourself Packet are available on the Dane County ADRC website at bit.ly/poadaneadrc. You may also check with your health provider or a case manager at the Senior Center for guidance.

Golf Card Game Fridays, 1:00 Handiwork Group Mondays, 1:00 PM

Stoughton Support Groups

Mahjong Mondays, 1:00 PM Movie 1st & 3rd Fridays, 1:00 PM Pinochle Wednesdays, 1:00 PM Pool Tables Daily, 8:00-4:30 PM RummiKubb Wednesdays, 1:00 PM Sheepshead Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1:00 PM Stamp Club 2nd Tuesday, 1:00 PM Train Dominoes Thursdays, 1:30 PM Trivia 3rd Tuesdays, 3:00 PM

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Plan for Future Health Decisions A Power of Attorney for Health Care (POA-HC) allows you to choose a trusted person to make medical decisions if you become unable to speak for yourself.

It’s your opportunity to outline how major health decisions should be handled, where you’d prefer to live as you age, and what you want for end-of-life care.

Classes & Skill Development

Memory Loss Caregiver Group 2nd Thursday, 2:00 PM Stoughton Senior Center, Stoughton Room Contact Alzheimer’s Association 800-272-3900 to register.

Computer/Tech Help or Coaching Sessions, FREE Registration required: 608-873-8585

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 2nd Monday, 12:15-1:15 PM Stoughton Health’s Community Health & Wellness Center 3162 County Rd. B, Stoughton Questions? Contact the Senior Center at 608-873-8585.

Wood Shop, FREE Daily, must take a safety course to use

Multiple Sclerosis Group 2nd Tuesday, 10:00 – 11:30 AM Stoughton Senior Center, Mandt Room Grief Support Group 1st Monday, 6:30 PM Facilitated by Pastor James Salimes Vennevoll/Skaalendal Clubhouse, 400 N Morris (separate building, corner of Henry and Ridge) Low Vision Support Group 3rd Thursday, 1:00 PM Stoughton Senior Center, Annex

Rosemaling or Painting Social Group, FREE Wednesdays, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Woodcarving Thursday mornings Registration required: 608-873-8585 Cost: $150 and kits available for additional charge Writers Group, FREE Last Tuesday, 1:00 – 2:00 PM Yahara Strummers Ukulele Group, FREE Thursdays, 1:00 PM Free Mending Service 1st Tuesday of the Month, 9:30 – 11:30 AM

For more information on services and activities please contact the Stoughton Area Senior Center at 248 W. Main Street, Stoughton WI, 53589 · (608) 873-8585 · stoughtonseniorcenter.com

Around the Clock Fitness and Wellness Activities Ballet for Seniors Wednesdays, 10:00 AM Cost: $50/5 weeks, $12 drop-in Call 608-873-8585 for session dates.

Winter 2025 Summer Highlights

The Yahara Senior Newsletter has activities, support groups, informative articles, and more!

Check it out at stoughtonseniorcenter.com/newsletter-1 The Senior Center is organizing 2 trips with Collette Travel in 2026. Consider joining us for Croatia, Slovenia and the Adriatic Coast or America’s Music Cities featuring New Orleans, Memphis, and Nashville. Find out more at stoughtonseniorcenter.com/trips

Chair Yoga Mondays, 10:00 AM Cost: $5 per class

Brain and Body Fitness Tuesdays, Feb. 24, March 3 & 7 10:30 - 11:45 AM Changes in brain health, such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, are one of the greatest health and societal challenges facing Wisconsin communities. Despite the benefits of engaging in brain health-promoting activities, readily accessible, evidence-guided programming can be hard to come by! Since 2019, the Gilmore-Bykovskyi Brain Health Team has partnered with Madison School and Community Recreation to deliver the Brain and Body Fitness Program.

They provide this 3-week program through volunteer efforts of faculty, staff, and students at no cost to participants. Through Brain and Body Fitness, they aim to provide research-informed education on ways to maintain brain health and engage in brain and physical exercises. Come prepared for light exercises (mostly seated). Register for this free class at 608-873-8585.

Exercise Group Tuesdays, 8:30-9:30 AM Cost: $2/class

Coffee with the Mayor Monday, January 12, February 9 and March 9, 10:00 AM Join Stoughton Mayor Tim Swadley for his monthly meeting with the public at the Senior Center. Please note the new dates. All are welcome!

Line Dancing, FREE Tuesdays, 2:00 PM

Music Appreciation Series – Coming in March!

All sessions are held at the Stoughton Opera House and are free and open to the public.

Donations are accepted. Organized by John Beutel, the series is for people who love music and want to learn more about it. The Music Appreciation Series is supported by the Stoughton Area Senior Center, a grant from the Bryant Foundation and participant donations.

All performances start at 3:00 PM.

Blood Pressure Screening, FREE 1st and 3rd Thursdays, 10:00 AM Chair Exercise Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 8:15 AM Cost: $2/class

Ping Pong, FREE Mondays & Wednesdays, 2:00 – 4:00 PM Fridays, 10:30 AM QiGong with Jo Chern Tuesdays, 1:00 PM Cost: $42 6-weeks/$10 drop-in Registration required: 608-873-8585 Reflexology with Heidi Fromi 1st Thursday & 3rd Monday afternoons Cost: $35/30 mins. Or $60/hr.

Registration required: 608-873-8585 Wii Bowling, FREE Mondays & Fridays, 10:00 AM Zumba Gold Thursdays, 8:30 AM Advanced, 9:45 AM Beginners $3 Suggested Donation

Volunteer Opportunities Meal Site Assistance – Assist in the packaging of meals to be delivered to hone-bound older adults: assist in serving and clean up after congregate meal served in dining room on weekdays, 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM Tech Help Support - Help adults search for solutions to problems with phones, tablets and laptops; assistance may be provided over the phone or in-person. For more details, contact Laura at the Senior Center 608-873-8585.

RSVP Driver Program – One of our greatest needs. Drivers provide seniors rides to medical appointments on weekdays, between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM. Home Delivered Meals Substitute Driver - Deliver afternoon meal from Senior Center to homebound older adults in the Stoughton area on weekdays, 1-2 hours/week; or on a substitute basis.

Friendly Visitor - Maintain weekly social contact with a homebound older adult for a minimum of 6 months. Training provided.

For more information on services and activities please contact the Stoughton Area Senior Center at 248 W. Main Street, Stoughton WI, 53589 · (608) 873-8585 · stoughtonseniorcenter.com

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Around the Clock Winter 2025 Stoughton Police Department Chief Daniel Jenks Emergency: 911 - 24 Hour Dispatch: (608) 873-3374 321 S. Fourth St, Stoughton - StoughtonWIPolice.com

Police Department Welcomes

Officer Katelyn Eucker Alex Orn

Jackson Frisch

The Police Department welcomed several new employees in recent months. Katelyn Eucker joined the department in October and is currently in the final phase of field training.

Alex Orn and Jackson Frisch, both Stoughton natives, began employment on December 1. Both officers will attend Blackhawk Technical College beginning in January for the 720 Basic Police Recruit Course and were sworn in by City Clerk Candee Christen.

Chief Dan Jenks

Police Chief Dan Jenks will retire effective February 6, concluding a 35-year career in law enforcement. Chief Jenks has served the City of Stoughton with dedication and professionalism, providing steady leadership to the Police Department and a strong commitment to public safety. The City thanks Chief Jenks for his many years of service to the community and wishes him well in retirement.

The department recently held its annual Shop with a Cop event, sponsored by Stellar Services and hosted by Walmart. Stoughton Fire/EMS also participated, helping make the event a positive experience for local families.

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Shop with a Cop

Around the Clock Winter 2025 Finance & cityofstoughton.com/finance • (608) 873-6677 Accounting Lisa Trebatoski - Director of Finance / Comptroller ATTENTION CITY OF STOUGHTON TAXPAYERS

With the goal of keeping everyone safe and healthy, please consider using one of the first 3 convenient options to pay your taxes:

Mail-You are encouraged to pay your property taxes by mail using the pre-addressed envelope provided to you with your tax bill. Please include the bottom portion of your tax bill with your payment. If you would like a receipt, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. No cash payments will be accepted.

Online- You are able to pay online with a credit card or e-check. Please note that online payments are through a third-party vendor and a 3% convenience fee will be charged for credit cards and $1.50 for e-checks. You will be informed of the amount prior to authorizing the charge. To make either a credit card or a e-check payment, visit our website at https://client.pointandpay.net/web/CityofStoughtonWI Drop box outside-There is a drop box located in the 3rd drive-thru lane behind City Hall (One Community Bank). The drop box is open 24/7 and will be emptied daily. There is video surveillance and a light directly above it for security purposes. Please include the bottom portion of your tax bill with your payment. If you would like a receipt, please include a self-addressed stamped envlope. No cash payments will be accepted.

In person- City Hall will be open Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Please have your payments made out to the City of Stoughton. No cash payments will be accepted A receipt can be obtained using one of the following options: •You can go to Access Danes website and print one out. The website is https://accessdane.danecounty.gov/ •Your payment must have a self-addressed stamped envelope included with your payment.

•You can request a receipt be emailed to you. Please provide your email along with your payment and we will email you a receipt.

•You can give us a call and we will be happy to print out a receipt which can be picked up at your convience. **Important-payments postmarked on or before December 31st, 2025 will be credited as paid in 2025. **Refunds on overpayments of taxes are mailed out weekly after your check has cleared our bank. Refunds will not be issued for amounts under $5.00 unless requested.

We will be closed the following dates: December 24th, 2025 December 25th, 2025 January 1st, 2026 January 19th, 2026 Payments can still be mailed or dropped off in the drive through on those dates we are closed.

Lottery Tax Credits -

Did you move into your home during 2025? If you owned your home and use it as your primary residence as of January 1, 2025, you are eligible for a Lottery Credit on your property tax bill. Each year homeowners are able to claim a lottery tax credit on the first installment of their property tax bill. You generally should have lived in this residence for more than six months of the year. Business property, rental units, land, and garages do not qualify for this credit. If you purchased your home after January 1, 2025, there are a limited number of circumstances that will allow you to receive the credit this year.

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If the lottery credit is not on your tax bill, please request a “Lottery Credit Claim Form” before you pay your taxes and your bill will be reduced if you qualify. For questions, to sign up for the credit or if the credit is not showing on your tax bill, please contact the City Treasurer’s office (608) 873-6677.

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For all other questions check out our website under FAQ’s or call (608)873-6677

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