Tower Times Fall 2021

The

Tower Times

City of Stoughton

Issue 3, Fall 2021

Welcome to Beautiful and Historic Stoughton, Wisconsin!

Mayor’s Note:

It is hard to believe summer is over.

As part of our services, we have implemented numerous initiatives to support our local businesses and residents.

• Approved using American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funds for commercial Lead Service Line replacement • Approved a Class “B” fermented Malt Beverage License for Stoughton Opera House Friends Association (SOHFA) • Allow for the Sale of Intoxicating Liquor and Appointing Stoughton Opera House Friends Association (SOHFA) • Provided resources for Badger Bounceback and Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation grants

position and Tammy Nimmo as the Deputy Clerk.

Isaac Castronovo, Lydia Bruning, Caleb Klebig, and Brett Morovic joined Chief Ripp’s team as Volunteer Firefighters. Kevin Lee joined the EMS as a Volunteer EMT. Mary Ostranger is the new Youth Services at the Library and Brian Aarstad joined the Senior Center as Case Manager.

Preparation for the 175th Anniversary of the City of Stoughton has begun. If you are interested in participating, contact Callie at the Chamber/Visitor Services visitorservices@stoughtonwi.com.

Staff and The City Council have been busy completing the 2022 Budget, Census, Redistricting and the American Recovery Plan Act allocation of dollars.

Kettle Park West (KPW) is preparing the site for the single-family residential lots. Building Other notable accomplishments include: permits are expected to be applied for this year.

• Lead Service Line replacement completed The City Council and Planning Commission have • Rotary Park Restroom and improvements approved plans for a three unit building that will • Sustainability Committee was formed be constructed in KPW, which includes a Milios’s • A Prairie Restoration Task Force was established sub shop and Sherwin-William’s paint store. Three eight unit apartments have been approved next to • National Night Out event occurred the commercial lot.

• Wine Walk took place

• Coffee Break and Cup O’ Joe Car and Motorcycle Show was held • Final design on the River Park was approved • Two Racial Equity listening sessions were held I would like to introduce • Carl Sampson Park was selected for the name of the new members to our Zink Power continues to construct their 110k sq. park behind the Senior Center team. Candee Christen ft. building next to Stoughton Trailers Plant 6. In • Allocated $15,000 for Housing Advocacy Team of has accepted Business Park North, an addition for Madison Power Stoughton (HATS) Step Forward Program the Clerk’s Coating was approved and a third “Incubator” • Approved Work Rules and Employee Manual policy building is under construction.

• Shared Ride Taxi service approved for another year • Stoughton Opera House interior upgrades The Redevelopment Authority (RDA) is finalizing a completed Developers Agreement with Madison developer Curt Brink for the Riverfront Project. Work at the Please join me for “Coffee with the Mayor” at The former Marathon site has begun.

Senior Center the second Friday of the month at 9:30, and follow us on facebook.com/CityofStoughtonWI.

The 51 West project is working toward completion of a Tax Incremental Finance (TIF) and Developers Agreement. Nordic Ridge development is entering Phases 4-6.

Several downtown buildings have accepted offers and will be opening soon.

Mayor Tim Swadley

Visit Our Website: www.ci.stoughton.wi.us

Merry Wishes!

Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm Sat. 7am to Noon

1621 E. Main St. Stoughton 608-873-8112

2 Fall 2021

The Tower Times

CITY ORDINANCES TRAFFIC VISIBILITY AT INTERSECTIONS

PRIVATE PROPERTY SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL REQUIREMENTS

If You Own A Corner Lot Within The City Of Stoughton, The Following Ordinance Section Likely Applies To You: Sec. 78-703. Visibility standards.

(1) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to alleviate or prevent congestion of public rights-of-way so as to promote the safety and general welfare of the public by establishing minimum requirements for the provision of vehicular visibility.

(2) R equirement. In order to provide a clear view of intersecting streets to motorists there shall be a triangular area of clear vision formed by the two intersecting streets and a chord connecting said centerlines, as determined by the director of planning and development. Generally, the following standards shall apply: Table 78-703: Vision Clearance Triangle Standards Right-of-Way Width

Distance from Right-of-Way Intersection

66 feet or less

10 feet

more than 66 feet

20 feet

Within said triangular area, no signs, parking spaces, structures, or earthwork in excess of 30 inches, and no vegetation, fencing, nor other such obstructions between 30 inches and eight feet in height shall be permitted which exceeds 30 inches in height above either of the centerline elevations of said two streets. *THIS REQUIREMENT ALSO APPLIES TO SNOW. Vision may be restored by: • Trimming shrubs or hedges to a maximum height of 30 inches.

• Trimming low hanging tree branches to a minimum height of 8 feet.

• Removal of obstruction.

There are also requirements along driveways adjacent to public sidewalks.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS ISSUE, PLEASE CONTACT THE CITY PLANNING DEPARTMENT AT (608) 646-0421.

OUTDOOR STORAGE OF UNSIGHTLY ITEMS AND UNLICESENSED VEHICLES ON PRIVATE PROPERTY SEC. 10-318 OUTDOOR STORAGE. “No person shall store or keep any of the following items outside of a fully enclosed structure on any private land in the city, unless outdoor storage of such item is expressly authorized by the zoning regulations applicable to such land use: (1) I noperative or unlicensed vehicles, boats or aircraft.

(2) Junk or machinery.

(3) Building or construction materials not being used in an active, ongoing and lawful building or construction project.

(4) Landscaping materials, unless those materials are incorporated as an integral part of the landscaping on the property, or unless those materials are in the process of being incorporated in an active, ongoing and lawful landscaping project.

(5) C ommercial trucks, tractors or trailers.

(6) A ppliances, including but not limited to furnaces, hot water heaters, or water softeners, stoves, refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, dryers, except that an operable gas or charcoal grills may be kept outside.”

Sec. 70-102 Open storage or outdoor parking of wrecked, disabled or unlicensed motor vehicles.

“Any open storage or outdoor parking of wrecked, disabled or unlicensed motor vehicles on private property shall constitute a nuisance.”

If you have any questions regarding this issue, please contact the planning department at (608) 646-0421.

TREE & SHRUBBERY TRIMMING ON PRIVATE PROPERTY: Fall is a good time to trim any low hanging tree branches or overgrowth of shrubs that are in the public sidewalk or street rightof-way.

• Trees and shrubs may become a safety hazard if allowed to grow into the public sidewalk or street areas.

• Trees and shrubs can cause vision issues between pedestrians and traffic.

By City Ordinance, tree limbs are not allowed to grow below 9 feet above a public sidewalk, and shrubbery/plantings are not allowed to encroach into the sidewalk area. Additionally, tree limbs are not allowed to grow below 14 feet above a public street.

If you are planning on doing some trimming, check with the Stoughton Public Works department for the best time to trim trees and shrubs. Some species require trimming at certain times of the year, and the Public Works department has a schedule for brush collection throughout the year. Check their website for more information at: www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/publicworks and look under services or call 608-873-6303. Notify the Public Works Department for issues with plantings within the terrace, parkrow or any City owned properties.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CONTACT THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR AT (608) 646-0421.

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 SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL REQUIREMENTS PLEASE CONTACT THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT AT 608-646-0421.

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) M ay 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) A re 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) M aximum 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.

OUTDOOR FIREWOOD STORAGE REQUIREMENTS Sec. 78-723. Outdoor storage of firewood standards.

(1) N o person shall store firewood in the front yard on residentially zoned property, except that firewood may be temporarily stored in the front yard for a period of 30 days from the date of its delivery.

(2) F irewood should be neatly stacked and may not be stacked closer than two feet to any lot line and not higher than six feet from grade, except adjacent to a fence where firewood can be stacked against the fence as high as the fence. Fences as used in this section shall not include hedges and other vegetation.

(3) All brush, debris and refuse from processing of firewood shall be promptly and properly disposed of and shall not be allowed to remain on the premises.

(4) Woodpiles that contain diseased wood that is capable of transmitting disease to healthy trees and woodpiles that harbor or are infested or inhabited by rats or other vermin are public nuisances and may be abated pursuant to the provisions of this Code of Ordinances.

(5) N ot more than 20 percent of the side and rear yard may be used for storage of firewood at any one time.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING OUTDOOR FIREWOOD STORAGE, PLEASE CONTACT THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT AT (608) 646-0421.

The Tower Times

Stoughton Police Department — See it, Hear it, Report it —

We can prevent a lot of crime by citizens reporting anything suspicious.

We would rather check on your concern, than investigate a crime later. Let’s be proactive together.

Our non-emergency line is 608-873-3374.

Police Beat Crime Watch

Fall 2021 3 to protect the public health, safety, and welfare. In order to secure this goal, activities contrary to this article are deemed to constitute a matter of public concern which must be regulated or prescribed through the exercise of police powers. Any open storage or outdoor parking of wrecked, disabled, or unlicensed motor vehicles shall constitute a nuisance. This article may be enforced by the building inspector, zoning inspector, police chief or duly authorized city representative. (b) Definitions.

(1) Disassembled, inoperable, junked or wrecked motor vehicles means motor vehicles in such state of physical or mechanical ruin as to be incapable of propulsion or being operated upon the public streets or highways, including, but not limited to, motor vehicles without engines, tires, or that are stored on blocks. Any motor vehicle, including boats, snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, or trailers, that is in such a state of physical or mechanical ruin shall be deemed a nuisance.

(2) Motor vehicle means all motor vehicles as defined in Wis. Stats. § 340.01(35).

(3) Unlicensed motor vehicles means motor vehicles which do not bear lawful current license plates, except motor vehicles held for sale by a licensed motor vehicle dealer who otherwise meets the requirements of this section.

(4) Restricted. No disassembled, inoperable, unlicensed, junked or wrecked motor vehicles shall be stored or allowed to remain in the open upon public streets or property within the city for more than three days, and no more than 15 days upon private property, except in connection with an automotive sales or repair business enterprise located in a properly zoned area.

Theft from parked motor vehicles continues to be a problem in the city. Thieves are taking anything of value they can find in parked vehicles. Perpetrators will also use garage door openers from unlocked vehicles to enter homes and commit burglaries. Some burglaries are occurring in occupied homes which increases the danger level of these crimes. Please help reduce these thefts by always locking your vehicle and not keeping valuables inside or visible. Another great way to reduce these thefts and burglaries is to install automatic lighting. It’s relatively inexpensive and helps to deter those that sneak around your property in the night. Also, please report any suspicious behavior to the police (c) The city shall notify the owner of a motor vehicle which has department at the time you observe it. Let’s all work together to been deemed a nuisance and is located upon private property.

The notice shall state that the owner must, within ten calendar reduce these incidents. days, repair and make the vehicle operable and roadworthy Get them off the Streets! and license any vehicle which may not be licensed or, in the As winter approaches, the police department is reminding alternative, place such vehicle in a garage or enclosed structure everyone to get vehicles, especially recreation type vehicles off or place such vehicle within a duly authorized and licensed sales, the city streets. The City of Stoughton has a 48 Hour parking repair or salvage business lawfully operating within a properly regulation on all City Streets and most Municipal Parking Lots. zoned area and in compliance with all state and local laws, rules, This means that all vehicles must be moved every 48 hours regulations, licenses and permits. or they will be ticketed. This includes all boats, trailers, or any (d) The city shall notify the owner of a vehicle which has been other type of vehicle must not be stored on city streets. deemed a nuisance and which is upon public property or rightIt is not legal to park or store any trailer over 17 feet long or of-way. The notice shall state that the owner must, within 10,000 pounds on city streets. Parked motorhomes and RV’s are 24 hours repair, assemble and make the vehicle operable a growing problem on city streets and should not be parked on and roadworthy and license any vehicle which may not be city streets and are subject to being cited. The police department licensed or, in the alternative, place such vehicle in a garage understands that occasional loading and unloading will take or permanently enclosed structure, or place such vehicle place. But, storage on the street is prohibited. within a duly authorized and licensed sales, repair or salvage business lawfully operating within a properly zoned area and Sec. 70-7. - Street storage prohibited.

No vehicle shall be parked on any street or public parking lot for in compliance with all state and local laws, rules, regulations, more than 48 hours, unless otherwise posted. If your vehicle is licenses, and permits.

temporarily disabled, call Stoughton Police Dispatch and let (e) Any vehicle which remains in violation of this section after them know at 608-873-3374 notice has been provided may be towed and stored by the police department, or building inspector or duly authorized Sec. 10-318. - Outdoor storage. (a) Applicability. This section applies to all private lands located city representative at cost and expense of the owner thereof. in the City of Stoughton. Nothing in this section limits the Unclaimed towed vehicles may be disposed of through the applicability of other sections of this Code to lands, buildings and means and procedures stated in section 70-101 except that the subsection 70-101(c)(3) shall not apply. If the vehicle has been structures in the City of Stoughton. removed from private property owned by the vehicle’s owner, (b) Restrictions on outdoor storage. No person may store or keep said costs may be levied against the property as a special charge any of the following items outside of a fully enclosed structure pursuant to Wis. Stats. §. 66.0627. on any private land in the city, unless outdoor storage of such item is expressly authorized by the zoning regulations applicable Sec. 70-14. - Parking during snow emergencies regulated. (a) The decision to declare a snow emergency shall be the to such land use: responsibility of the street superintendent or his designee. The (1) Inoperative or unlicensed vehicles, boats or aircraft. declaration of a snow emergency will occur when three inches (2) Junk or machinery. or more of snow is forecasted or three inches have fallen, (3) Building or construction materials not being used in an or as conditions warrant. Notice will be given to the police active, ongoing and lawful building or construction project. department and to the same Madison news outlets that the (4) Landscaping materials, unless those materials are Stoughton Area School District uses for school closings. Notice incorporated as an integral part of the landscaping on will also be posted on the street department web site and local the property, or unless those materials are in the process cable TV. of being incorporated in an active, ongoing and lawful landscaping project.

(5) Commercial trucks, tractors or trailers.

(6) Appliances, including but not limited to furnaces, hot water heaters, or water softeners, stoves, refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, dryers, except that an operable gas or charcoal grills may be kept outside.

(b) During a snow emergency declaration, no vehicle shall be parked on any street between 12:00 midnight and 8:00 a.m., except in accordance with the terms of this section.

(c) 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. Parking between 12:00 midnight and 8:00 a.m. shall be prohibited on Sec. 70-101. - Abandoned vehicles. (a) Prohibited acts. No person shall leave unattended any the opposite (other) side. motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer manufactured/mobile home, (d) The last digit of the house numbers for that street shall snowmobile, all-terrain vehicle, or boat on any public street or determine the even or odd side of a particular street. highway or public or private property, for such time and under such circumstances as to cause the vehicle to reasonably appear (e) Where a street block, or a portion of that block, has a “No to have been abandoned. When any such vehicle has been left Parking At Any Time” or “No Parking 3:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.” unattended on any city street or highway, or on any public or restriction on one side, that restriction shall supersede the private property within the city, without the permission of the limitations of this section. The even/odd number restriction owner for more than 48 hours, the vehicle is deemed abandoned shall still apply to the opposite side of these streets. and constitutes a public nuisance. A motor vehicle shall not (f) The parking restrictions of this section shall begin at 12:00 be considered an abandoned motor vehicle when it is out of midnight after the most recent snow emergency has been ordinary public view or when designated as not abandoned by declared and remains in effect until three consecutive 12:00 the police chief, building inspector or their designees. midnight to 8:00 a.m. periods have elapsed or the emergency is Sec. 70-102. - Open storage or outdoor parking of wrecked, canceled or extended. disabled or unlicensed motor vehicles. (g) The forfeiture for a violation of this section shall be $25.00 or (a) Purpose. The purpose of this article is to prevent blight, as set by the common council by ordinance or resolution from to secure healthy and humane living conditions, to protect time to time. In addition, any vehicle, which remains unmoved the integrity of and investment in real property, to prevent 24 hours after issuance of a citation, shall be towed at the the decline of real estate values, to improve aesthetics, and owner’s expense. The police department will provide vehicle information to the towing company.

Medication Drop

The Stoughton Wellness Coalition sponsored the Medication Disposal Program by installing a permanent and secure drug disposal site in front of the Stoughton Police Department. This provides 24/7 access to the public in disposing of their unused or unwanted medications (liquid, pills, gel, patches, aerosols, vaps). Please leave all medications in their original containers and use a marker to cross off any personal information. There are two drive-up medication drop-off events at the Stoughton Fire Department, one in April and one in October of each year.

For further information contact Det. Hill.

Gun Safety Locks

You may be proficient at loading, aiming and shooting your firearm, but are your safety precautions on target? Project Child Safe disseminates firearm safety kits (which include a gun lock and safety education brochure) through law enforcement agencies across the country. For a free gun safety lock and brochure, stop by the Stoughton Police Department front lobby.

Internet and Social Media

The Stoughton Police Department always looks for ways to better communicate with our community and provide services in a more efficient way.

Part of that process is to have a presence in cyberspace.

Visit us on the City of Stoughton website at https://www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/police.

This website contains contact information, records request forms, vehicle registration information, Safety Camp updates, Briarpatch brochures, Facebook information and much more.

Like our page on Facebook at Stoughton Police Department to keep up to date with crime, found animals and property, scams, and other events in Stoughton.

Citizens Academy

The Stoughton Police Department Citizen Academy is designed to give citizens an inside look at the operations of the police department. The academy covers topics such as constitutional law, firearms training, emergency vehicle operations, crime scene processing, K9 demonstration, as well as scenario training and a ride-along with an officer. The academy is designed to be a combination of lecture and hands-on-training to keep students engaged in the program. This primary objectives of this program are to increase citizen awareness of a police officer’s job responsibilities. To improve communication with citizens and create an understanding between police department employees and residents of the community.

Applications are available online on the City of Stoughton website or by contacting Sgt. Patrick Frisch.

Coffee with a Cop

Coffee with a Cop...What is it? It’s a simple concept. Police and community members come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee. Be a part of Wisconsin’s First Coffee with a Cop in the city where “the coffee break started.” If you are interested in participating, look for our announcements on our Facebook page or call to suggest a gathering.

Refuse To Be A Victim

The Stoughton Police Department now offers Refuse To Be A Victim seminars. The seminar teaches methods to avoid dangerous situations and prevent criminal confrontations.

Seminar participants will be presented with a variety of commonsense crime prevention and personal safety strategies and devices that may be integrated into their personal, home, automobile, telephone, technological, and travel security.

This seminar is available to the public for community groups or businesses. Please contact Sgt. Andrew Johnson with any questions and watch our Facebook page for upcoming events.

Paul Kraby Memorial Scholarship

In 2019, the Stoughton Police Department started a scholarship fund set memory of Stoughton’s only fallen officer, Paul Kraby.

We have been raising funds to support a Stoughton High School graduate who is planning to pursue a career in law enforcement.

This 2021-2022 school year will be the third year that we have been honored to present a $1,000 scholarship to a local student.

We raise funds at local events, through our donation box at the dispatch window and through online donations at https://client. pointandpay.net/web/CityofStoughtonWI If you would like to make a donation to support a Stoughton High School graduate, please contact Brooke Schmidt or stop in to the STPD dispatch window.

K-9 Unit

K-9 Ole started his career in Stoughton in March 2013 as a dual purpose patrol dog; trained in narcotics detection and tracking. Ole also enjoys interacting with children during school presentations with his handler, Sgt. Chad O’Neil. Ole celebrated his 10th birthday this October and is looking forward to his retirement. The purchase and upkeep of our K9 has been made possible by donations to the Stoughton K-9 Fund. If you would like to make a donation or to purchase a K-9 T-shirt (limited supply left), please contact Sgt. Chad O’Neil or stop in to the STPD dispatch window.

4 Fall 2021

The Tower Times

PARKS AND REC • FALL AND WINTER 2021-2022 Contact Information Parks and Recreation Director Dan Glynn, dglynn@ci.stoughton.wi.us Recreation Director Tony King, tking@ci.stoughton.wi.us Location 207 S. Forrest Street, Stoughton, WI 53589 General Line 608-873-6746 Online Registration https://apm.activecommunities.com/ stoughtonrec Website www.stoughtonrec.com Office Hours Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM *Office Closed Sept. 6, Nov. 25 & 26

How to Register Online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/ stoughtonrec With online registration, you are able to see how many spots are available in a class and have peace of mind knowing you, or your child, is enrolled. If a class is full, please sign up to be on the waiting list.

Online registration is available 24/7 and accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover.

Mail-in: Complete registration form and mail with payment to: Stoughton Recreation, 207 S. Forrest St., Stoughton, WI 53589 *Make checks payable to Stoughton Recreation Walk-in/Drop Box: Office hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM. Office hours are subject to change. Our 24-hour secure drop box is located in front of the main entry.

Scan & Email: Email completed registration form (including credit/debit information) to tking@ ci.stoughton.wi.us.

Recreation Department Weather Hotline If you think there’s a chance that you’re program is cancelled by bad weather, call our weather hotline at 873-6724. A new message will be posted at 4:00 pm on weekdays and an hour before scheduled activities on the weekends. Your program is scheduled to be happening if the recorded message is from a previous day.

Residency Policy Residents are considered people who pay property taxes to the City of Stoughton. Townships, School District, etc. It may be possible that you might be a resident and our online registration system considers you a non-resident. In these cases, please contact us and we can make the appropriate change to your account.

Inclusion Service & Recreation Programs Recreation and leisure activities are an important aspect of life for all people. We will make reasonable accommodations to many of our recreation programs so individuals with disabilities can participate without fundamentally changing the program. Please go to our website at www.stoughtonrec.com and search for therapeutic services.

Refund Policy 1. Full refunds will be given if program is cancelled by the Recreation Department.

2. Cancellations made before the registration deadline date listed are subject to a $5.00 administrative charge (credit card processing fees are non-refundable).

3. There are no refunds issued after the registration deadline date listed or start date of the program.

4. Participants who miss classes due to illness, vacation, etc. will not be provided the opportunity to make them up.

5. Refunds can be put back on your credit card, placed as a credit on your account or by check that will be mailed out. Please note that it takes approximately two to three weeks to receive a check refund.

Photo Policy Stoughton Recreation programs and events are often photographed for promotional purposes. If you do not wish to be included in a Recreation Department photo, please indicate this to the instructor and/or photographer.

Financial Assistance

Big 10 Volleyball League

The Stoughton Recreation Department is teaming up with other Dane County area recreation departments Financial assistance is available. Please call 608-873- to bring a travel volleyball league for children in grades 5-8. The program will focus on the FUNdamentals of 6724 or stop in to our office to discuss any needs. volleyball and emphasize good sportsmanship and teamwork. There will be three practice days leading up to five tournament days. Volunteer coaches are needed!

Practices on Friday, and game on Sunday We would like to thank all of the volunteer coaches Days: Practices – Friday evenings, Games – Sunday who have made our programs so successful.

Dates: Practices start in January. Games start in We appreciate your support and dedication. January and end in March Fee: $65 (includes shirt) WHO PROGRAM CODE 5th Grade Girls 1170.321 1170.322 To help ensure everyone’s safety and health, we will 6th Grade Girls be following current protocols outlined by the CDC 7th Grade Girls 1170.323 and PHMDC as it pertains to our programs. Detailed 8th Grade Girls 1170.324 program procedures will be communicated before program start dates and we will continue to update as Futsal more information is released.

Futsal is an indoor version of soccer that is played around the world. Players participate in “openplay” games that encourage creativity, develop foot skills, and teamwork. Soccer coaches will give tips when appropriate. Futsal has been instrumental in Little Viking Basketball – Kindergarten This program will cover six classes where players will developing soccer talent in Brazil. be introduced to basic fundamentals and work on Place: Fox Prairie Gym developing movement skills that are necessary to play Days: Tuesdays – Grades 1-2 and 5-8, Thursdays – basketball. A certified coach will be teaching the class. Grades 3-4 Parents are welcome to volunteer and assist with Fee: $30 – Residents, $38 – Non-Residents coaching activities if they would like to be involved Deadline: One week before session starts and learn about basketball coaching. Participants will Max class size: 16 receive a 25 inch basketball. The classes are for this Session I is already underway and registration is closed. age group is for both girls and boys.

Session II Days: Saturdays Times: 9:00-9:45 am GRADES CODE DATES TIMES Gym: Yahara School 1-2 1131.887 1/11-2/15 6:15-7:15 pm 3-4 1131.888 1/13-2/10 6:15-7:15 pm Fee: $45 5-8 1131.889 1/11-2/15 7:20-8:20 pm SESSION DATES FEE CODE Esports Leagues for High Schoolers Session 2 1/8-2/12 $45 1120.480 Stoughton has partnered with GGLeagues to bring Little Viking Basketball – 1st Grade eSports events to our community! Join today and play Each session will cover six weeks where players will your favorite video games against other players from learn the basic fundamentals and work on developing Stoughton and surrounding communities. We have a movement skills that are necessary to play basketball. place for players of all ages and gaming backgrounds.

Parents are welcome to volunteer and assist with This Fall we have leagues for Fortnite, Super Smash coaching activities if they would like to be involved Bros., Rocket League and Madden 21! Form a team and learn about basketball coaching. Participants will or go solo. Go to www.ggleagues.com/organization/ receive a 25 inch basketball. The classes are for this stoughton to see what leagues are open and to age group is for both girls and boys. Sign up for both register! sessions and save $10.

Match Days: Go to www.ggleagues.com/ Days: Saturdays organization/stoughton Times: 10:00-10:45 am Fee: Starting at $10-$30 Gym: Yahara School Fee: $45 for 1 session or $80 for both sessions

Thank You! Covid Guidelines

Youth Sport Programs

SESSION Session 2

DATES 1/8-2/12

FEE $45

CODE 1120.489

General Youth Programs Stoughton Recreation Ski Club Trips

Go on a ski trip with the Recreation Department! We have multiple trips to Devil’s Head, Tyrol Basin, and The Stoughton Recreation Department is teaming Cascade Mountain. Trips take place on Friday nights up with Cottage Grove, Monona and McFarland recreation departments to bring a travel basketball league for children in grades 3rd & 4th. The program will focus on the FUNdamentals of basketball and emphasize good sportsmanship and teamwork.

Games will be on Saturday mornings with one practice during the week. Children will receive a reversible jersey.

Basketball Travel League Gr. 3rd- 4th

in January and February. Trips are for middle and high school age children. Sign up the week of the trip at River Bluff or at the Recreation Department. Look for more information at the schools in late December or on our online registration page - https://apm. activecommunities.com/stoughtonrec/Home.

Norse Park Outdoor Skating Rink

We plan on having the skating rink at Norse Park be open this winter. The open and close dates are dependent on the weather.

Enrichment & Cultural Classes Youth Painting Classes Winter Class 2021

For this class, the children will be doing a painting of a fun winter scene. They will be using acrylic paint on a 16 x 20 canvas. Throughout this painting we will be working on shading and blending along with background, middle ground and foreground. I will walk them through step by step, but each child will put their own personal touch on their project. These paintings turn out beautiful and would be wonderful to hang on your wall for the winter season! Students will be required to wear a mask.

Day & Date: Monday, January 17 (No School Day) Time: 9:00-11:00 am Ages: 5 to 12 year olds Location: Stoughton Youth Center Fee: $50 Program Code: 1383.382

Adult + Child Paint: LEGO Portrait

What kind of LEGO would you be? Enjoy this artsy bonding experience for ages 7 and up. LEGO character is custom drawn on for you to add your personality too. Aprons and supplies are provided. Max 15 painters Date/Time: Sunday, January 9, 3-4:30pm Location: Stoughton Youth Center Cost: $40 per couple ($25 for each additional child or adult) Code: 8342.100

Adult + Child Paint: Emoji

An artsy bonding event for Adult + Child to paint your favorite emoji or emoji statement. Class is for ages 7 and up. Aprons and supplies are provided. Max 15 painters

Volunteer coaches are needed. We will provide an on court training opportunity that will go over the different station activities for practice along with expectations for games.

GENDER DAYS Boys Weeknight

& Saturdays Girls

DATES TIMES CODE Dec.-Feb. TBD 1120.411

Weeknight Dec.-Feb. TBD 1120.433 & Saturdays

Gyms: River Bluff and/or Community Building plus Traveling Fee: $85

Big 10 Basketball League

The Stoughton Recreation Department is teaming up with other Dane County municipal recreation departments to bring a travel basketball league for children in grades 5-6. The program will focus on the FUNdamentals of basketball and emphasize good sportsmanship and teamwork. Each team will be guaranteed 8 games and an end of season tournament. Games will be played at various locations in Dane County on Saturday mornings and there will be one practice on a weekday. Volunteer coaches needed!

Days: Practices – Weekday Evenings, Games – Saturday Mornings Dates: Practices start in December. Games start in January and end in March Fee: $85 (includes jersey) WHO 5th Grade Boys 6th Grade Boys 5th Grade Girls 6th Grade Girls 7th-8th Gr. Boys

PROGRAM CODE 1123.418 1123.498 1123.409 1123.490 1123.499

Stoughton Parks & Recreation | 207 S. Forrest Street | Stoughton, WI 53589 | 608-873-6746 | www.stoughtonrec.com

The Tower Times Date/Time: Sunday, February 20, 3-4:30pm Location: Stoughton Youth Center Cost: $40 per couple ($25 for each additional child or adult) Code: 8471.100

Mom’s Night Out: Inner Diva Collage

Join us for a relaxing evening sans kiddos! We love those little ones, but sometimes Momma NEEDS a break! Unwind and make new friends!

It’s a night that you deserve. We will be at Mershon’s Cidery where you can purchase some of their delicious ciders and snacks.

Aprons and supplies are provided. Max 12 adults Date/Time: Friday, January 21, 7-9pm Location: Mershon’s Cidery (124 W. Main St.) Fee: $25

Adult Sport Programs Adult Basketball Programs Adult Winter Basketball Leagues

We offer multiple different basketball leagues.

Our basketball leagues generally start in middle to late November and run through the end of March. Please see the different league options below. Sunday game times are in the afternoon/early evening. The leagues have 10 game seasons with end of season tournaments.

These are officiated leagues and standings are kept. Sign up as a team or as a free agent. Team registration forms and league information can be found on our website – www.stoughtonrec. com/sports. If you would like to register as a free agent, please email Tony King at tking@ ci.stoughton.wi.us.

Fall 2021 5 Who: Adults Fee: $40 season membership or $2 drop-in Times: 9:00-11:30 am (Check online to see what days of the week) Location: Yahara Gym Code: 3355.400

Stoughton Area Youth Center The Stoughton Area Youth Center (SAYC) is open and better than ever! The SAYC will be a leader in youth development and healthy lifestyle choices. Not only is the center “the” place to be for students 5-8 during after-school hours, the program has expanded to include high school students with great programming that is both fun and educational.

Regular hours: 3:00-6:00 PM after school 12:00-5:00 PM during the summer and nonschool weekdays Location: 567 E. Main Street Phone: 608-877-9980 Staff: Greg Hoyte, ghoyte@ci.stoughton.wi.us

Parks Dept Info Reserve a Shelter

Park shelter reservations can be made by going through our online system at gymdandy.io or by stopping in the office. We rent shelters at Nordic Ridge, East Side Park, Virgin Lake, Bjoin, Norse and Rotary Park. Reservations are taken on a first come, first served basis starting the first business day of the year. The shelters are available to reserve from May 1 to midOctober.

If you are not using the online option, it is best to call ahead to check the availability of the desired park shelter (608-873-6746)

Norse Park Outdoor Skating Rink

The skating rink at Norse Park will be open again this winter. The open and close dates are dependent on the weather. The warming house is open weekdays from 5-8 PM and weekends from 12-4 PM.

Yahara River Park Update

The hydraulic model based on the preliminary design was completed this summer. The engineers from Recreation Engineering and Planning created a video that details the findings. The video can be found at www. stoughtonrec.com/riverpark.

The WDNR has determined that the design for the River Park will be considered a dam reconstruction project. This is due to the paddling features creating a head. However, the design creates a free flowing river which will improve water quality and have other ecological benefits such as fish passage. The next steps for the project are to complete the final design, and gain the requisite approvals from the WDNR and Army Corp of Engineers.

Men’s Sunday A Men’s Sunday B Men’s Monday (Over 35) Adult Open Gym Basketball

Construction of the River Park is scheduled for 2023. It is highly encouraged to check out the project’s website linked above if you are interested in the project or have more questions.

These are a great alternative if your schedule is too busy to commit to a league. Please bring your own ball if you plan on attending. These open gyms are for ages 16+. However, younger children may attend if accompanied by an adult.

SATURDAYS Dates: November 6 – March 19 Closed: 11/27, 12/18, 12/25, 1/1 Location: Community Building Times: 12:00-1:30 pm Fee: $2 per day SUNDAYS Dates: November 7 – March 20 Closed: 11/28, 12/26, 1/2 Location: High School Field House Times: 12:30-2:00 pm Fee: $2 per day

Add Street Leaf Removal to Your Fall Yard Care Routine and Protect Our Waters!

Fall is a great time of year to take simple actions to protect our waters. Make a commitment to remove street leaves before the rain. It’s an easy, yet very effective action that those living in the urban environment can take to reduce the amount of phosphorus that washes into our waters each fall.

When it rains, stormwater flows through leaf piles in streets creating a “leaf tea” that is rich in dissolved phosphorus.

Dissolved phosphorus found in “leaf tea” does not settle out and cannot be easily removed. It travels through storm sewers making its way to our lakes, rivers and streams and can cause our waters to become green, murky and unhealthy.

Keeping streets leaf-free before the rain prevents “leaf tea” and can reduce the amount of phosphorus in urban stormwater by 80% compared to no leaf removal! Get outside, join your neighbors and do your part to protect our watershed.

Join us in keeping streets leaf-free this fall!

It’s easy! Before the rain…

1. Safely remove leaves from the street in front of your home and nearby storm drains.

2. Place leaves on the terrace for the City of Stoughton Fall leaf collection (October 11-November 21) or recycle leaves on your property.

3. Sign up to receive Leaf-free Streets Rain Alerts this fall (Oct. 1- Nov. 30). Alerts will be issued (via text or email) 1-2 days before a significant rain event reminding you that it’s time to remove street leaves.

4. Request a Leaf-free Streets yard sign from the Public Works Department and help educate others in your neighborhood.

To learn more or to sign up for Leaf-free Streets Rain Alerts visit: https://ripple-effects.com/Leaf-free-Streets

Take Action to Protect our Waters this Fall and Winter!

Pickleball Open Gym

Pickleball is a fun game for all ages. It is a racquet game that combines elements from table tennis, tennis, and badminton. We will be providing nets, balls, and court markers. Please bring your own racquet.

*** NOTICE ***

City of Stoughton Tax Payers Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic we are strongly encouraging using one of the first 3 Convenient options to pay your property taxes this year.

1. Mail - using the pre-addressed pink envelope provided to you with your tax bill.

2. Online – online payments are through a third party vendor and a convenience fee will be charged. You will be informed of the amount prior to authorizing the charge. You can make payments online on our website at https://ci.stoughton. wi.us and then going to the drop down “I want to” and choose Pay Taxes/Tax Information. Follow the directions to make either a credit or debit card payment or an electronic check payment.

3. Dropbox – There is a drop box located in the 3rd drivethru lane behind City Hall (McFarland State Bank). The drop box is open 24/7 and will be emptied daily. There is also video surveillance and a light directly above it for security purposes. This is the same drop box that was used to collect ballots for elections.

4. City Hall at this time will be open for in person payment.

Masks are required in the building. We will be closed on December 24, 31 and January 17. The above 3 options are available for payments during this time.

The City of Stoughton held a Public Hearing on November 9, 2021 to review the proposed 2022 City budget. A copy of the proposed budget will be available for review on the city’s website.

Tax Billing The Treasurer’s Office will send out bills by December 20th. Please include the bottom portion of your tax bill with your payment.

First installment payments are due by January 31, 2022. Please make first installment checks payable to the City of Stoughton.

Please note, NO CASH PAYMENTS will be accepted. If you choose to pay in installments, your second installment will be paid directly to the Dane County Treasurer and is due by July 31, 2022.

If a paper receipt is needed, a self-addressed, stamped envelope must accompany the payment. You may also provide an email address for an emailed receipt. We can be reached at (608) 8736677 if you have a question regarding your tax bill or visit our website for FAQ’s.

Lottery Tax Credits Did you move into your home during 2021? If you owned your home and use it as your primary residence as of January 1, 2021, 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, 2021 there are a limited number of circumstances that will allow you to receive the credit this year.

The credit amount varies by year and will not be determined until the beginning of December 2021. 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.

Dog Licenses You can conveniently purchase them through the mail by sending a separate check payable to the City of Stoughton, to the attention of Dog License, City Hall, 207 S Forrest St., Stoughton, WI 53589 along with proof of rabies vaccination (which will be returned to you) and a self-addressed stamped envelope. You can also use the drop box located in the 3rd drive thru lane behind City Hall (McFarland State Bank) again enclose a separate check, proof of rabies vaccination (which will be returned to you) and a self-addressed stamped envelope. The rates have remained the same for 2022: $21.00 unless the dog is spayed or neutered in which case the fee is $17.00.

As the weather cools and the days of splashing around on the lake fade away it’s easy to forget about the health of our waters. Take action to protect our waters by: 1. K eeping streets leaf-free this fall In the fall, keeping leaf litter off of streets before it rains can reduce the amount of phosphorus in urban stormwater by 80% compared to no leaf removal!

Before the rain…

• Safely remove leaves from the street in front of your home.

• Mulch or Compost leaves on your property.

• Sign up to receive Leaf-free Streets Rain Alerts this fall (Oct. 1- Nov. 30). Alerts will be issued (via text or email) 1-2 days before a significant rain event reminding you that it’s time to remove street leaves.

To learn more or to sign up for Leaf-free Streets Rain Alerts visit: www.ripple-effects.com.

2. Cleaning up pet waste It is very important to continue to pick up after your pet all year long, especially during winter. Pet waste can become encased in snow and ice, and carried away with melt water when it warms up. The bacteria and nutrients found in the waste make their way to the nearest storm drain, and then flow into the nearest lake or stream.

3. Reducing salt usage As snow season draws near, consider this: sodium chloride (NaCl) is the most common form of salt used for de-icing roads and walkways. It is used so much that it has become a water pollutant. It is very difficult and costly to remove once it is in the water, so prevention is very important.

This winter…

• Remove snow as soon as possible so that it is less likely to turn to ice.

• Treat before a storm to help prevent ice buildup so less de-icer is needed.

• Use sand for traction, it is safe and effective, but be sure to sweep up excess • Consider using the following alternatives: Liquid magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, potassium chloride (all 3 work better than regular salt in colder temps), calcium magnesium acetate and potassium acetate.

• Read the label- know which ice melt product you are using, in what temperatures it will be effective, and how much to use.

To learn more about the City of Stoughton’s stormwater management strategies, and what you can do to help, visit www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/stormwater.

6 Fall 2021

The Tower Times

Educate, Enrich, Empower, Engage!

The Library is Open!

The Basics:

The Stoughton Public Library is located at 304 S. Fourth St., at the corner of 4th & Main, just west of the clock tower in downtown Stoughton.

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.

Library Book Discussion Groups For most of the last year and a half, our book discussion groups have met virtually or outdoors. As the weather turns colder, we will resume small indoor discussions in the fall and winter of 2021-22. Social distancing will be observed and masks are required. Please check our events calendar at stolib.org/calendar/ month Page Turners – This group reads a variety of general interest titles both nonfiction and fiction. It usually meets the 4th Tuesday or Wednesday of the month at the library and the Stoughton Senior Center. Please see the library’s online calendar for more details.

The Foundation – This is Library’s science fiction / fantasy book group, named in honor of science fiction grand master Isaac Asimov’s famous Foundation Trilogy. The Foundation explores themes, authors, short stories, and novels. The group meets the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 PM Thursdays 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 second Thursday of the month at 6:30 PM, with no meeting in December.

Join the Friends of the Library

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.

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, contact storef@stolib.org or call 608-873-6281.

NEW! Tired of struggling to recall which book you’ve read from your favorite author or where you’ve left off in that mystery series?

Stop by the library and pick up a Friends of the Stoughton Public Library Reading Journal for only $10 and never forget another title, author, or plot again!

The Friends’ Book Nook booksale has returned!

Patrons can once again 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.

Our building is now open for in-person holds pick-up, browsing, and computer & technology!

Open Hours: Monday-Thursday: 9 AM to 9 PM Friday: 9 AM to 5 PM Saturday: 9 AM to 5 PM Sunday: 1 PM to 5PM Guidelines for visiting the library: • Wear a mask – A mask covering your mouth and nose is required by county mandate, even if you are fully vaccinated. Our busy library sees hundreds of visitors per day, and we continue to believe that masks are the best way to make sure our space is safe for everyone.

• Maintain physical distancing – We have placed signs and decals at points of service to remind everyone to maintain 6’ of distance at all times.

• Sanitize your hands when you enter the building – Hand sanitizing stations have been placed at the library entrance and on the 2nd floor. Restrooms are also available.

Virtual Library Services and Programs

Please note that the Guideline information may change during the course of the ongoing pandemic. For the most up-to-date information about library services, visit our website at www. stoughtonpubliclibrary.org NEW! Wireless Printing Now you can print wirelessly at the library from your laptop or mobile device using our secure service! It’s as easy as adding an attachment to an email and dozens of file formats are supported. Printing costs are $.15/page for black & white and $.50/ page for color. And don’t forget that the library offers scanning, too!

New! LINKcat App Available A new and improved app for searching the library’s catalog is available for download from the Apple App Store and Google Play. The new app features enhanced searching capabilities, the ability to link multiple library accounts, and a digital library card.

Upcoming Programs and Events

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.

National Novel Writing Month November is National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo).

Stop by the library to find your perfect table, desk, or study room to get in the zone and add to your word count. Most importantly, be sure to enter our weekly prize drawings for teens and adults, found near the elevator on the top floor, or for kids on the first floor. Enter every time you visit the library for a chance to win books about writing, journals, fancy pens, and other writing goodies.

Users of Libby now 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.

Music and Movement Wednesdays, November 3 – December 29, 9:30 am on our Facebook page Join us Wednesday mornings for a story, songs, and activities virtually on the Stoughton Public Library Facebook Page. Want even more fun?

Kits will be available the first of each month to make a prop we will use in story time! No registration required. Recommended for ages 2-6, but older and younger children are more than welcome!

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

Additional Online Resources:

NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) Crafts Friday, November 5, 1 pm Get ready for NaNOWriMo by creating your own notebook and pencil case. Supplies will be available to pick up from the Children’s area starting Friday, October 29. Join us on our Facebook page for directions and to ask questions! Geared to ages 6-11 Pokémon Club Thursday, November 11, 3:30 pm Virtual via Zoom

Library cardholders have full subscriber access to thousands of product reviews and buying guides through ConsumerReports.org. Just go to stoughtonpubliclibrary.org and click on ‘Research Help’ near the top of the page. You will be asked to enter your full library card number to access the site.

Our newest online resource available to anyone with a Stoughton Public Library card is Creativebug! 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.

New this year: enjoy at-home access to the world’s most-searched resource, Ancestry.com!

online

genealogy

Normally available only in the library building, Ancestry is now accessible from home with your library card throughout 2021. Visit our website at stoughtonpubliclibrary.org and click on Research Help near the top of the page.

Join fellow Pokémon fanatics for Pokémon related activities and virtual meetup. Supplies will be available for pickup starting 1 week before we meet. Ages 6-11. Please register online at stolib.org/pokemonclub or call 608-873-6281 Intro to Coding with Scratch Tuesday, November 16, 3:30 pm Virtual via Zoom New to Scratch? Learn some basic commands and learn to code a short animation! Register online at stolib.org/scratch or call 608-8746281. All skill levels welcome. Ages 8-12.

Registration required.

Go Big Read: Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi Tuesday, November 16, 6:30 pm: Library Carnegie Meeting Room Wednesday, November 17, 1 pm: Stoughton Area Senior Center, Yahara Room Our Page Turners book group will join readers from all around the state in reading and discussing Transcendent Kingdom, the story of Gifty, a graduate student in neuroscience and the only member of her Ghanaian family born in the United States, as she examines her family’s

experience of immigrating and her own place in the world. We have copies available on the top floor display near the elevator. Masks are required at these discussions.

Stuffed Animal Sleepover Thursday, November 18-Friday, November 19 Drop off your stuffed animals at the Children’s Desk Thursday, November 18 and fill out a name tag. Pick up your stuffed animal on Friday, November 19 at the Children’s Desk. See what your friends were up to overnight at the library on the Stoughton Public Library Facebook page.

New Year’s Eve Kits Monday, December 27 while supplies last.

Pick up a kit with crafts and activities to ring in the New Year! Kits will be available starting Monday, December 27, until they are gone.

Geared to ages 2-10.

Our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten and 500 Books Before Middle School programs help kids build life-long literacy and learning skills. Stop by the desk in our Children’s department to learn more.

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten: It’s never too early to start reading to the little ones in your life! Children will earn a special sticker every time they complete 100 books. They’ll also receive a free book when they complete 500 books, and a second free book when they complete 1000 books!

NEW! 500 Books Before Middle School: Our new program encourages school-age children to read 500 books before they reach middle school! Children will earn a sticker and a small prize every time they complete 50 books.

They’ll also receive a free book when they complete 250 books, and a second free book when they complete 500 books!

Coming in January: A Winter Reading program for all ages! Cozy up with reading and other activities to earn a chance to win prizes from local businesses. More info later this fall/winter at our website!

Board Games available for check-out The library now has board games you can check out! Give one (or a few) of them a try today!

These board games vary in recommended ages (from about 8 to 14) and are kept inside the TARDIS (now located on the top floor of the library).

Go to stoughtonpubliclibrary.org/board-games for more information and a link to our Board Game Geek page listing the games available!

New programs and events are being added all the time! For the most-up-todate information, visit https://www. stoughtonpubliclibrary.org/calendar/month

The Tower Times

Fall 2021 7

SOUTHERN WISCONSIN’S MOST CHARMING THEATER

Our Exciting 2021/22 Season

The meticulously restored Stoughton Opera House is one of Wisconsin’s premier music theaters featuring legendary performers and cutting-edge contemporary musicians in the intimate atmosphere of an era gone by.

Your seat is waiting. . .

Before the show Visit our

e g n u o L t h g i L Ghost NEW

!

al n o i Reg rs Bee Wine

Cider!

Experience the live video feed from the theater during the shows in our brand new first floor lounge.

SOUTHERN

✶ Darrell Scott ✶ Shovels & Rope: The Bare Bones Tour ✶ Richard Thompson TWO SHOWS! ✶ Leo Kottke ✶ Michael Perry Presents: The Sneezing Cow Stories ✶ Nick Lowe’s Quality Rock & Roll Revue featuring Los Straightjackets ✶ Marty Stewart & His Fabulous Superlatives ✶ Harmonious Wail ✶ Asleep at the Wheel TWO SHOWS! ✶ Stoughton Chamber Singers ✶ Chicken Wire Empire ✶ Kruger Brothers ✶ Stoughton Festival Choir & City Band ✶ The High Hawks ✶ Watkins Family Hour (Courtney Hartman opens) ✶ DeVotchKa ✶ Steely Dane plays The Royal Scam ✶ Davina & the Vagabonds ✶ The Jayhawks (The Mastersons open) ✶ Mardi Gras Mambo 2022 featuring The Dirty Dozen Brass Band and Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas

✶ Amy Helm ✶ The Gibson Brothers ✶ Cherish the Ladies ✶ Iris DeMent ✶ Tim O’Brien Band ✶ Peacherine’s Stage & Screen Spectacular ✶ Opera For the Young: Cinderella ✶ Hot Club of Cowtown ✶ Tommy Castro & the Painkillers ✶ BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet: One Last Time!

Au Revoir Tour ✶ The Quebe Sisters ✶ Michael Perry & the Long Beds ✶ Charlie Parr ✶ MadFiddle & Hwy 151 ✶ Eilen Jewell ✶ Over the Rhine ✶ Janis Ian: Celebrating Our Years Together ✶ Bach Dancing & Dynamite Society with New England Ragtime Ensemble ... and Much More!

381 E. MAIN STREET STOUGHTON WI

608.877.4400 WWW.STOUGHTONOPERAHOUSE.COM

Our Exciting 2021/22 Season

8 Fall 2021

The Tower Times

City of Stoughton - Department of Public Works YOU MAY NOT KNOW WE WERE THERE, BUT YOU WOULD KNOW IF WE WEREN’T

Winter Preparedness

Love it or hate it, winter is on our doorstep. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the impending snow season: 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 can see. Use the defroster to keep windows clean.

• Turn your lights on. Be visible.

• Take extra care when driving on bridges and overpasses, which can 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! Shoveling Snow Snow shoveling and heavy lifting can cause strains and sprains to the back, shoulders and wrists. Follow a few simple rules to be safe while shoveling snow: • Stretch and warm up your muscles and joints before shoveling.

• Use a good shovel that is the right size. A shovel that is too short or too long may cause overextension.

• Push snow instead of lifting. If you must lift a loaded shovel, use your legs. Consider taking smaller scoops to avoid heavy lifting.

• Take breaks to avoid overexertion.

• Be especially cautious if you are at risk due to heart disease.

• Do not push snow into the street.

• Clear snow around fire hydrants and sidewalk ramps.

• Salt sidewalks and driveways as needed. A little goes a long way.

Garbage and Recycling Cart Placement To avoid broken carts and to aid in the clearing of snow from the entire roadway, please place your garbage and recycling carts in your driveway apron or on the terrace. When carts are placed in the roadway, they may get damaged and would be the responsibility of the homeowner to replace.

terrace area (back of curb to either the sidewalk or property line if there is no sidewalk) and shall not be greater than 20 feet in length. Piles must not impede the vision triangle for motorists.

• Branches shall be stacked neatly parallel to the roadway.

•A ny trees/brush that have been cut by a paid contractor will not be collected.

2022 Curbside Leaf Collection

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 evennumbered 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”.

Spring leaf collection is March 28 -April 17 Fall leaf collection is October 10-November20 You may put your leaves on the terrace any time during the time period listed below. Collection may be extended or shortened depending on weather conditions. Check the Public Works website for updates.

Please help by doing the following: • Place all leaves on the terrace (park row) • Do not place leaves in the street • Do not mix brush or trash in with your leaf pile • Do not park cars in front of your leaf pile • Remove leaves from the storm inlet grates and place on the terrace Please keep in mind, it may take crews several days to make it through the entire community. Our goal is to loop through the entire city at least once per week depending on volume. To make sure your leaves are collected, have them out each Monday. Once crews go by, they may not be back around until the next week.

2022 Curbside Brush Collection

• Materials must be separated, debagged and unloaded by the resident.

ACCEPTABLE MATERIALS • Leaves, grass clippings, garden waste, etc. (bags/ containers must be removed) • Brush –any length • Logs – up to 14 inches in diameter (we would encourage repurposing logs for firewood, furniture, milled planks, etc) UNACCEPTABLE MATERIALS • S olid Waste: Garbage, recyclables, food waste.

• Construction debris, rocks, dirt • Stumps, root balls, etc.

The yard waste hours of operation are as follows: Open: April 2nd to November 22nd Tuesdays 1 pm – 7 pm Thursdays 1 pm – 7 pm Saturdays 8 am – 3 pm Annual Fee: City Resident: $20.00 Non-Resident: $25.00 Note: To protect the safety of the staff and public, the yard waste site may close early during inclement weather.

Terrace Tree Trimming The City is divided into 5 separate zones for tree trimming. Each year one zone is trimmed to remove deadwood, provide adequate clearance above the roadway and sidewalk, as well as promoting overall good tree structure and health. This means that all City owned trees are trimmed once at least every five years. This fall/winter, the City of Stoughton and their contractor will be trimming city trees on the terrace in the southeast section of the city pictured in purple below. Any questions regarding City trees should be directed to City Forester John Kemppainen at 608646-0414 or jkemppainen@ci.stoughton.wi.us.

Brush Collection Christmas Tree Collection

April 25 January 3 Yard Waste Site

June 27 January 10 Site Guidelines

August 22 January 17 • The site is open to residents and non-residents.

October 24 There is an annual for the of the site.

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Stoughton. So what do we do with all those leaves? Well, we turn them into usable compost.

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Stoughton.

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John’s Disposal Bulky & E-waste Curbside Collection Program

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Each bulky or e-waste collection must be scheduled on the phone with Johns Disposal by calling The process of Turning Leaves into Usable Compost 262-473-4700.

The process of Turning Leaves into Usable Compost Approved E-Waste Items • televisions • computers (desktop, laptop, netbook and tablet computers) • desktop printers (including those that scan, fax and/or copy and 3-D printers) • computer monitors • other computer accessories (including keyboards, mice, speakers, external hard drives and flash drives) • e-readers • DVD players, VCRs and other video players (i.e., DVR) 1. Leaves are 3. Windrows3.are turned are tu 1. collected Leaves are collected 2. Leaves are 2. taken Leaves are taken Windrows • fax machines Curbside from over from over to the yard waste periodically to speed up to spee Curbside to the yard waste periodically • cell phones 4,0000 City 4,0000 residences site and windrowed the composting process City residences site and2. windrowed composting 1. Leaves 2. Leaves are taken to turned 1.

Leavesare arecollected collected Leaves are taken 3. Windrows arethe Windrows arepro tu 1. Leaves are1.collected 2. Leaves are taken 3. Windrows are3.turned Leaves collected 2.

Leaves are taken Windrows 1.are Leaves are collected 2. Leaves are taken 3. 3.

Windrows are turned curbside the yard waste andwaste periodically to speed up theare turned Bulk Item Collection (Must call John’s Disposal to Schedule Collection) Curbsidefrom fromover over4,000 to thesite yard periodically to spee Curbside from over Curbside periodically to speed up from over to the yard waste to the yard waste periodically to speed up over to the yard periodically to speed up This service is for any extra garbage/recycling or E-waste you may have as well as items that are too large toCurbside from city residences windrowed 4,0000 City residences sitewaste and windrowedcomposting process the composting pro 4,0000 City residences site and windrowed the composting process 4,0000 City residences site and windrowed the composting process process fit into the carts. Call 262-473-4700 to schedule a collection.

4,0000 City residences site and windrowed the composting John’s Disposal Office hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm and Saturday, 8:00 am to Noon Acceptable Bulk Items: • Furniture, Appliances, Large metal items • Carpeting (no wider than 4ft and rolled) • Extra garbage bags or garbage in personal cans • Tires (2 per home per month – 8 per year) • Cardboard (flattened & empty) • Drain oil & antifreeze (sealed in 1-5 gallon containers) • Paper & other recyclables should be in clear plastic bags • E-waste (see approved list above) • Humidifiers/De-humidifiers, Water Softeners • Air Conditioners 5. The end product is 6. Compost is free for city 4. Compost material is Unacceptable Bulk Items: compost that is rich in residents at the yard waste run through a trammel to • Yard waste 4.remove Compost material is run 5. The end product is compost 6. Compost is free for site when it is open trash • Hazardous materials 4. Compost material is runand other 5.nutrients The end product is compost 6. Compost is Through a trammel toisend thatisis5. rich in end nutrients City residents atfor the 4.

Compost material run The product is compost 6. Compost is • Liquid paint 4. Compost material is run 5.

The product compost 6.

Compost isCity free inorganic material Through a trammel to that is rich in nutrients residents Remove trash and otherto yard wasteCity site when • Loose bulk construction materials Through a trammel that is rich in nutrients residents Through a trammel to that is rich in nutrients at the Remove trash and other yard waste sit 4. Compost material istrash run 5. The end product is compost City residents Compost is free Inorganic material it is6. open All items for bulk pick up should be placed within 2 feet of curbside and 6 feet from the carts.

Remove and other yard waste sit 4.

Compost material is run 5.

The end product is compost 6.

Compost is free for For more information, please call (608) 873-6303 or visit us at www.stoughtonpublicworks.com.

Remove trash and other yard waste site when Through a Inorganic trammel material to that is rich in nutrients City at th Inorganic material itresidents is open it is open Through a trammel to that is rich in nutrients City residents at the

Inorganic material Remove trash and other Remove trash and other Inorganic material Inorganic material

it is open yard waste site wh yard waste site when it is open it is open

The Tower Times

Fall 2021 9

m o r f s w e N Stoughton Area

City of Stoughton Department of Public Works CONTINUED…

Newly Formed Task Force Aims to Help Maintain Stoughton Prairies

Newly Formed Task Force Aims to Help Maintain Stoughton Prairies The Friends of the Stoughton Prairies Task Force is a newly formed team that works to maintain our city’s prairie habitats and to promote the beauty and benefits of these ecosystems. So far the work has primarily focused on removing invasive species and diversifying the represented native prairie plants through seed collection.

City residents and friends are welcome to assist in this project. Work days are held every Saturday at 9am, alternating between Schefelker Park and Amundson Park. You do not need to be an expert. A member of the task force is present to direct your work, and hand tools are provided.

The work is not hard, and friends make it easier! If you are able to drop in to help, any amount of time you spend is appreciated.

The Friends of the Stoughton Prairies Task Force invites you to observe and enjoy the work that has been done at the three Stoughton prairies: ● Amundson Park- The entrance is located at the intersection of Amundson Pkwy and Skogdalen Dr and also accessible from Viking County Park. ● Bjoin Park- Located off of E Wilson St and accessible from the Yahara River Trail ● Schefelker Park- Entrances located on Furseth Rd and Sundt Ln

You can find more information about work days and our local prairies at the City of Stoughton Public Works website: https://www.stoughtonpublicworks.com/ stoughton-prairies-task-force or the City of Stoughton Facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/CityofStoughtonWI.

Senior Center

THANK YOU!

We want to give a big and very grateful thank you to the many people and organizations who have contributed to our fundraising campaign to renovate the building next door.

In order to make the space usable for future programming, we need to raise $200,000 for renovation. We are in need of space to expand programming to meet the needs of the older adults in the Stoughton area. The renovations are scheduled to begin January of 2023. This is a very exciting project for the participants of the Senior Center.

We will continue to fundraise for the money needed to complete this project, and to also meet our yearly fundraising of the $29,500 for our operational budget. If you have any questions regarding this project, Senior Center fundraising or planned giving, please contact Cindy McGlynn at (608) 873-8585.

Just a reminder, donations to the Senior Center are tax-deductible. You may make a donation online at stoughtonseniorcenter.com/ fundraiser or learn about other funding options at: stoughtonseniorcenter.com/donate. Please contact us at (608) 873-8585 if you would like a receipt for your donation. Again, thank you for your donations.

The Stoughton Area Senior Center is dedicated to the enrichment of the lives of older adults and their families by providing diverse programs, social services and volunteer opportunities. We are here for you. Anyone in need of assistance or information is invited to give us a call at (608) 873-8585, subscribe to our monthly Yahara Senior News newsletter, or visit stoughtonseniorcenter.com.

Medicare Part D Open Enrollment is Oct. 15—Dec. 7 Review your Drug Plan Each year insurance companies can change their covered medications, premiums, deductibles and copays. It is important to review your Medicare Part D Prescription Drug plan and compare it to other available plans to be sure your plan will be a good option for you in the new year.

You may compare plans online using the Medicare Health and Drug Plan Finder at medicare.gov. To assist with this process, the Stoughton Area Senior Center has links to stepby-step guides and videos for using the Plan Finder and creating a MyMedicare account at: stoughtonseniorcenter.com/medpartd.

Mailbox Replacement Policy Damage to mailboxes caused by City staff or equipment shall be reported to the Department of Public Works by the owner of the mailbox within 10 days of the occurrence of the damage. The owner must keep the damaged mailbox and make it available for inspection by a City representative.

If the owner does not report damage within the 10-day time period or keep the mailbox and make it available for inspection by a City representative, then the claim for damages may be denied by the City without further investigation. If the report is made within that time period and the mailbox is made available for inspection, then the City shall proceed as follows: (a) A Public Works Supervisor shall investigate the damage and determine whether the damage was caused by City owned equipment or not. (b) If it is determined that the damage was caused

by City owned equipment, then the Supervisor shall assess the condition of the mailbox immediately prior to the occurrence of the damage, to the extent reasonably possible.

(Meaning: What condition was the mailbox in before the damage) (c) If the assessment of the mailbox’s condition prior to the occurrence of the damage shows that the mailbox or post was in poor, deteriorated, or rotted condition, or shows other indications that it should have been replaced even if it had not been damaged by a City equipment, then the City may not repair or replace it. Any repair or replacement would be at the sole discretion of the City.

(d) Any mailbox damaged by the weight of the plow windrow (snow exiting the end of the plow) will not be covered under this policy and no reimbursement will be offered. (e) If it is determined that the City did damage the mailbox, the City will use reasonable efforts to restore the mailbox to the condition it was in prior to the occurrence of the damage. If repair of the damaged mailbox is not possible and replacement is required, then the City will install a steel mailbox, meeting US Postal Service requirements, in black, on a 4” by 4” treated wood post set in the ground, at the City’s expense. (f) The City will not install specialty mailboxes or mailboxes that are a significant betterment over the mailbox damaged by City equipment. (g) Only USPS-approved mailboxes will be repaired or replaced. Newspaper boxes or other items mounted on the post with the mailbox will not be repaired or replaced by the City. (h) If the owner chooses not to accept repair or replacement of the mailbox by the City, and wishes to install a mailbox of the owner’s choice instead, then the City will reimburse the owner for the cost of materials for mailbox repair or replacement, up to a maximum of $100, The owner shall provide the City with proof of purchase of the materials. Labor will not be reimbursed. (i) If weather or ground conditions do not allow a posthole to be dug, then a temporary mailbox will be mounted and a permanent repair or replacement will be done when weather and ground conditions allow.

The following agencies are also available to give unbiased assistance with plan comparisons over-the-phone: • Medicare: 1-800-MEDICARE • Medigap Helpline: 1-800-242-1060 • Disability Drug Helpline (under 60yrs): 1-800-926-4862 • Wisconsin Medigap Prescription Drug Helpline: 1-855-677-2783 Please contact the Stoughton Area Senior Center Case Managers if you have questions at (608) 873-8585. The Senior Center is always a resource for fielding questions for Medicare Part D. Unfortunately, due our limited staff time the Center will have limited appointments for Medicare Part D. We strongly encourage people to reach out to the above numbers and a family member/friend to help with the enrollment process. Adapted from GWAAR Medicare Outreach Team gwaar.org Energy Services Inc. Energy Service Inc. is now booking appointments for the 2021 heating season.

Returning and new clients may apply three ways: 1) Apply online: energybenefit.wi.gov/, 2) Schedule an appointment by phone: 1-800506-5596, or 3) Book an appointment online at: esiwi.com/book-an-appointment Kim’s Home-Cooked Curbside Pick-Up Meals On two Thursdays each month we offer delicious home-cooked meals for those aged 60 and older. Pick-up is from 11 AM - noon.

Suggested donation is $4.00, pay what you can afford. Call (608) 873-8585 for more information.

Virtual Coffee with the Mayor 2nd Friday of the month, 9:30 AM Mayor Tim Swadley of the City of Stoughton holds monthly meetings to the public at the Senior Center. You’re invited to come by, grab a cup of coffee, and join in on discussion of the latest news. Visit our events page for details on potential monthly guests. stoughtonseniorcenter.com Veterans Day Luncheon: Thursday, Nov. 11 Drive-thru Pick-up: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM OR Dine-In: 12:00 PM Join us for a tribute to our area Veterans with a special meal prepared by Kim, our Nutrition Coordinator followed by music from the Catfish River Revue. Veterans will receive a complimentary lunch, the cost for nonveterans is $5.00.Reservations are required for both pick-up and dine-in meals. Call (608) 8738585 by November 9.

Thanksgiving Day Meal The Stoughton Area Senior Center is partnering with Stoughton Hospital in providing a Thanksgiving meal for homebound individuals 60 years and over, who live in the Stoughton Area School District. Donations are accepted to cover the cost of meals. If you are homebound and are in need of a Thanksgiving Day meal with all the trimmings, please call the Stoughton Area Senior Center at (608) 8738585 by Friday, November 19.

Free Christmas Dinner Saturday, December 25 VFW, 200 Veteran’s Road (CTY N) Dine In 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Deliveries will start at 10:00 AM If you live within the Stoughton School District area and need a ride (handicap accessible van) or if you want a meal delivered please call the Senior Center at (608) 873-8585 by Tuesday, December 21.

RSVP Driver Escort Program is Back!

Driver Escort is a program that provides transportation to seniors, 60 years and older, on a donation-only basis. The driving force is made up of volunteers. The service was shut down during the pandemic and has been slowly reopening over the past few months. Retired and Senior Volunteer Program and Senior Centers around Dane County, partner to make this program available to seniors across the county.The service is offered Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM -3:30 PM. Passengers must give 5 days advance notice of a ride request.

Interested in receiving RSVP rides?

In Stoughton, RSVP volunteer drivers provide transportation on a donation-basis to medical appointments for Stoughton based seniors, 60 years or older who live independently.

Rides are based on driver availability. 5 day advance notice & proof of COVID vaccination is now required for all riders. Please allow for additional time to complete registration paperwork. To see if you’re eligible for RSVP rides call our RSVP request line at (608) 2059422.

Interested in becoming a volunteer driver?

The RSVP Driver Escort and Vets Helping Vets passenger services need drivers in the Stoughton area and in all Dane County communities. Drivers are offered reimbursement at .56 cents/mile and additional liability insurance. RSVP provides PPE supplies. Drivers and passengers must be vaccinated. The service operates weekdays, 8:30 am to 3:30pm. For more information, contact Mary Schmelzer at (608) 441-7896 or mschmelzer@rsvpdane.org.

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

10 Fall 2021

The Tower Times

Your resource for saving energy & money stoughtonutilities.com • (608) 873-3379

Go Ahead, Deck the Halls!

This holiday season, Stoughton Utilities is reminding homeowners and businesses about the benefits and advantages of energy efficient lighting options to help customers stretch their holiday dollar and trim their holiday energy bill. Compared to standard incandescent holiday lights, LED holiday lights use up to 90 percent less energy to produce the same amount of light, cost significantly less to operate, and last longer than standard lights.

To help you start saving, we are giving customers one strand of LED holiday lights with a non-perishable food donation! Stop into our office during normal business hours, November 22 – December 3, with your donations. For your safety and the safety of SU employees, please wear a mask while making your donation.

Join us for a special one-time kick off event on Saturday, November 20 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., and with each item donated, customers will also be entered into a drawing to win prizes including an Electric Snowblower and utility bill credits!

Not only are LED holiday lights energy efficient, but they greatly reduce the risk of fire because they emit much less heat than traditional lights. Since they do not have the same components that cause traditional lights to burn out or combust, they also last for many holiday seasons.

Stoughton Utilities also wants customers to be aware of safe operating practices for all types of holiday lighting.

• Always remember to turn off tree and decorative lights, both indoors and outdoors, before leaving home or going to bed. Use a holiday light timer to make this easier.

• Always check last year’s leftover lights for cracked or broken sockets, frayed insulation or bare wires, or loose connections. Throw away damaged cords.

• Before you buy lights for use outdoors, read the packaging and the tag on the cord to make sure they’re approved for outdoor use. Never use indoor lighting outside!

• Follow the use and care instructions that accompany your electrical decorations.

For more holiday energy-saving ideas, visit us online at stoughtonutilities.com. Stoughton Utilities wishes you and your family a healthy, happy, and safe holiday season!

Claim Your $25 Bill Credit with our Bill Credit Incentives!

Stoughton Utilities customers can receive a $25 bill credit incentive with the purchase of certain ENERGY STAR® rated products, including appliances and smart thermostats. ENERGY STAR products are more efficient, saving you energy and money on your utility bills.

Qualifying products include ENERGY STAR dehumidifiers, clothes washers and dryers, dishwashers, freezers, refrigerators, air purifiers, and smart thermostats. Visit our website for complete details and to download the reimbursement forms.

To qualify for the Stoughton Utilities rebate, purchases must be listed as ENERGY STAR® rated products at energystar.gov, or listed as a qualifying smart thermostat at focusonenergy. com. Available for purchases made in 2021 only. Completed forms and sales receipts must be received prior to December 1, 2021. Visit stoughtonutilities.com/incentives for full details and to download reimbursement forms.

Stoughton Utilities RoundUp Program Donates $1,000 to Friends of Badfish Creek Watershed

Stoughton Utilities recently donated $1,000 to Friends of Badfish Creek Watershed. This donation is part of Stoughton Utilities’ RoundUP program, a voluntary program that ‘rounds up’ customers’ utility bills to the next whole dollar. All proceeds are distributed to local non-profit community organizations. Recent water samples of Badfish Creek have shown elevated levels of E. coli, sometimes making it unsafe for recreation. Friends of Badfish Creek Watershed has been working to determine the cause of elevated levels of E. coli, and will use this donation to pay for lab testing of water samples. The findings from these tests will be used to make policy recommendations to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Stoughton Utilities began its RoundUP program in 2006 as a way to further assist local non-profit organizations in our community. Over five percent of Stoughton Utilities customers have voluntarily chosen to participate in the program and are continuing the “neighbor helping neighbor” concept that founded Stoughton Utilities over a century ago.

Customers wishing to participate in the RoundUP program, or non-profit organizations requesting to be considered for future donations, may sign up online at stoughtonutilities.com/roundup, or by calling Stoughton Utilities customer service at (608) 873-3379.

Tree Branches vs. Electric Wires

Tree limbs that come in contact with power lines are a major cause of electrical outages, and limbs that touch electric power lines can become energized or even break and fall, bringing the lines down with them. This risk is increased over the winter months due to the heavy weight of snow and ice accumulation, as well as the high winds that frequently accompany winter storms.

To reduce outages caused by tree contact, Stoughton Utilities prunes trees away from its power lines on a planned five-year cycle. Our line clearance program is one of many efforts we employ to help ensure the reliability of your electrical service, and for many years, our program has been honored with the Tree Line USA award.

Like the majority of utilities nationwide, Stoughton Utilities does not routinely trim around service drops.

The service drop is the wire that runs from the pole to your home or business. This line serves only you, and each individual property owner is responsible for keeping it clear of trees and branches. These overhead service lines have insulation on them to protect the wires from incidental contact with energized lines so individuals who are comfortable and responsible around electric wires can easily and safely remove the branches with appropriate tools and equipment for the job. Individuals that don’t feel safe or comfortable around electric wires should always hire a professional tree trimming contractor.

When lights flicker during storms and on windy days, it can usually be explained by trees making contacts with overhead power lines located throughout our service territory. This may be happening on the wires between poles located along streets, alleys, or back and side yards, and may not necessarily be happening in front of your homes or on your service drop wire.

Please alert us to any line issue that requires immediate attention, such as broken or dead limbs hanging on or over power lines. Also, remember to take a look up while planning to plant a tree on private property. If you see power lines where the tree will eventually grow, please plant a type of tree that is appropriate for the location and has a limited maximum height. For more information on our line clearance program or information on maintaining your service drop, please contact us.

Mercury: Do You Have it in Your Home?

Mercury is a toxic compound that is extremely hazardous to our environment. We need everyone’s help to keep mercury out of the wastewater and landfills. Wastewater treatment plants are capable of removing over 90% of the mercury entering the plant, however, an ultra-low limit of 1.3 nanograms per liter (ng/L) is now required. The only cost-effective way to manage the level of mercury in Stoughton’s wastewater is to reduce mercury discharge into the treatment plant from users of the sanitary sewer system. Listed below are some of the most commonly used mercury products: • Barometers • Amalgam dental fillings • Fluorescent light bulbs • Lab thermometers • Medical fever thermometers • Latex paints made before 1990 • Blood pressure cuffs • Thermostats How to dispose of mercury products Do not put any mercury compounds down the drain or in the trash. Hazardous household wastes can be safely disposed of through Dane County Clean Sweep, located at 7102 US Highway 12, Madison. More information about Clean Sweep can be found on their website at danecountycleansweep.com.

More information about mercury can be found at dnr. wi.gov/topic/mercury.

Winter Utility Bills

With winter rapidly approaching, 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: • 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 My Account.

• 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.

• Please continue reading below to obtain contact information for winter Energy Assistance.

Eligible customers will receive a one-time benefit to help cover their winter electrical expenses.

• Contact us to enroll in our Budget Billing program to avoid bill fluctuations and have a predictable monthly bill. With this program, your utility bill is a fixed amount each month, with a payment amount equal to the average of your monthly charges. The amount will be reviewed and adjusted twice a year to be sure that the monthly payment stays similar to your monthly usage. You can find out what your Budget Billing amount would be, and easily enroll or cancel by logging in to My Account online, or by giving us a call.

• 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 My Account.

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, 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 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 Department of Revenue (DOR) for collections through the State Debt Collection Initiative. The DOR will attempt to deduct payment from your state tax refund, garnish your wages, or place a bank levy on the funds in your checking or savings account. In addition, the DOR will charge an additional fee of 15% of the unpaid balance.

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.

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.

GIVE THEM THE GIFT OF LIGHT This holiday season, give the gift of light to a neighbor or loved one. Stoughton Utilities offers gift certificates, which can be used towards any customer’s utility bill. Gift certificates may be purchased for any amount.

Contact us for more information!

WHEAP electric (non-heating) assistance is a onetime 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, including: • A single person with an annual income below $31,103 per year; • A couple without children with an annual income below $40,673; • A family of three with an annual income below $50,243; • A family of four with an income of up to $59,813; • Guidelines for additional household sizes can be found online at www.stoughtonutilities.com.

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.

Give Them a Brake!

Working outdoors in Wisconsin’s harsh winters is hard enough, but when utility crews have to deal with dangerous drivers in work zones, it only makes it that much more difficult. Whether it’s around electric linemen restoring a power outage or a water crew repairing a water main break, work zones are no place for impatience or aggressive driving. The added seconds you may save while speeding through a work zone are not worth placing your utility’s worker’s lives at risk.

Tragically, over 1,000 people die across the nation every year in road work zones. Please follow these important tips for safely driving in road work zones. Your life – and ours- depend on it!

• Keep a safe distance from traffic barriers, construction equipment, utility workers, and other traffic.

• Always slow to work zone speed limits, or slower.

• Pay attention. Normal speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes may be changed and people and vehicles may be working near the road.

• Minimize distractions, such as cell phone use.

• Watch for and follow all warning, lane closure, and construction detour signs.

• Plan ahead and give yourself time to reach your destination.

• Always buckle up.

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.

The Tower Times 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.

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 snowcovered 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.

Fall 2021 11 Stoughton Utilities Celebrates Public Power Week

Each year, Stoughton Utilities holds an annual Public Power Week event that highlights the benefits that “public power” brings to the utility, its customers, and the City of Stoughton. This year, Stoughton Utilities celebrated Public Power Week with a scavenger hunt and trivia contest. Customers were given a daily clue to help them find the “secret location,” or answer the trivia question. They were then asked to send us a picture of themselves or family member at the secret location on scavenger hunt days, or email us the trivia answer on trivia days.

Grand prize winners were randomly selected daily to win their choice of prizes, which included an Ecobee smart thermostat bundle, electric lawnmower, $300 utility bill credits, and more. In addition to the grand prizes, 10 lucky participants per day won a $10 utility bill credit. A total of 227 answers and photos were submitted throughout the week by Stoughton Utilities customers.

Public power refers to the fact that the City of Stoughton owns and operates the not-for-profit utility to provide reliable electricity to homes and businesses. Local employees provide quick responses when issues arise and assistance with identifying energy-saving improvements. Public power utilities like Stoughton Utilities are supported by customer revenues, not taxes, and provide substantial payments in lieu of taxes to local governments to help keep local economies strong.

“Because we are owned by our customers rather than shareholders, we can focus on local priorities such as helping to sponsor economic development efforts, support high school scholarships, and participate in local events,” said Stoughton Utilities Director Jill Weiss. “In honor of Public Power Week, we like to give back to all of our customers with a special event.”

Public Power Week is celebrated across the country every year during the first full week of October. The

event honors the over 2,000 communities served by a locally owned not-for-profit public power utility.

Online E-Billing and E-Pay Go green, go paperless!

How would you like to never again open your mailbox to receive your Stoughton Utilities statement, or to never have to write another check to pay your bill?

You can make this happen, simply by enrolling in paperless E-Billing, making your payments online using My Account, or enrolling in our AutoPay program.

These choices are simple, convenient, and smart.

With paperless billing, there are no bills to mail, file, or to clutter your mailbox. You can manage the entire bill-paying process online, including access 24 hours a day to view past bills, payment activity, and flexible payment options. Going paperless also keeps you in control of the security of your personal information, as well as reduces your impact on the environment.

By enrolling in AutoPay, the billed amount due will be deducted each month on the due date from your checking or savings account, or charged to your credit or debit card.

Log in to My Account online at stoughtonutilities.com to go paperless today.

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.

Celebrate the Holidays Safely Keep your family safe during the holidays by keeping electrical safety in mind and by following these simple safety tips...

Outdoor Lighting • If your outdoor decorating requires a ladder, always look up first before raising it. Don’t raise ladders or other extended objects into or near power lines.

• Planning to string lights in outdoor trees? Make sure tree limbs haven’t grown into or near electric lines. Branches and even entire trees can become energized if they contact the line.

• Before using lights outdoors, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use. To hold lights in place, string them through hooks or insulated staples, not nails or tacks. Never pull or tug lights to remove them.

• Plug all outdoor electric decorations into circuits with ground fault circuit interrupters to avoid potential shocks.

• Don’t overload extension cords or allow them to run through water or snow on the ground.

• Don’t staple or nail through light strings or electrical/extension cords-you could damage the wire or insulation, which could lead to an electrical shock or fire.

Indoor Lighting • Check all tree lights - even if you’ve just purchased them - before hanging them on your tree. Make sure all the bulbs work and that there are no frayed wires, broken sockets or loose connections.

• Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and a person touching a branch could be electrocuted.

• Inside your home route cords so they won’t trip anyone. Additionally, don’t place them under rugs, appliances or other objects, as they may overheat if covered or become worn and cause a fire.

Trimming the Tree • Whether artificial or freshly cut, a tree should be kept a safe distance away from all sources of heat, including fireplaces, radiators or portable heaters.

• When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant.”

• Cut a few inches off the trunk of your tree to expose the fresh wood. This allows for better water absorption and will help to keep your tree from drying out and becoming a fire hazard. Be sure to keep the stand filled with water, because heated rooms can dry live trees out rapidly.

• Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens. Always use non-flammable holders, and place candles where they will not be knocked down.

• It is important to turn off all electrical light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.

• For both inside and outside lighting projects, follow the rule of using no more than three sets of lights on a single extension cord to prevent overheating and reduce the chance of fire.

• Follow the use and care instructions that accompany your electrical decorations.

Stoughton Utilities wishes you and your family a healthy, happy, and safe holiday season!

In addition to payments and E-Billing, My Account allows you to manage other payment and billing options, including Budget Billing, RoundUP, and renewable energy. You can also compare your bills to those of other customers near your neighborhood, analyze your present and past bills to learn more about how your usage has changed over time, see how the weather may be affecting your consumption patterns, and more.

Is it Really Flushable?

A lot of personal hygiene products claim to be sewer and septic safe, but before you actually flush them down the toilet, think again. There are only two items that should ever be flushed: human waste and standard toilet paper. All other products such as baby wipes, moist towelettes, “flushable” wipes, paper towels, rags, cloth diapers, cleaning pads, and more should always be discarded in the trash, not the toilet. These products do not break down in the sanitary sewer system, and can clog laterals, sewer mains, pumps, all of which can lead to sewer backups into homes and businesses.

What we put down our drains and toilets can not only clog our sanitary sewer and septic systems, but they also can negatively impact our environment and put our health at risk. Hazardous materials such as motor oil, antifreeze, paint and paint thinners, mercury, and even unused pharmaceutical drugs can remain in our waterways even after treatment.

If you need to discard hazardous materials, visit the Dane County clean sweep collection site. You can find more information at danecountycleansweep.com.

If you need to dispose of unused prescription pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter medicines, and vitamins, you can safely do so at any MedDrop site, including the drop box located outside the Stoughton Police Department’s main entrance. More information, as well as a listing of other MedDrop sites can be found at safercommunity.net/meddrop.php.

12 - The Tower Times - Fall 2021

Old Man Winter Will Soon Move In For The Season!

Is Your Vehicle Prepared?

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