Town of Dunkirk

Dane County, Wisconsin

Public Hearing Meeting Minutes

February 20, 2023

6:00 PM

Dunkirk Town Hall

654 County Highway N

Chairman Monsen called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Also present were Supervisor Ted Olson, Supervisor Jenks, Constable Holte, Clerk Kathy Olson, and Treasurer Smithback.  See attached sign-in sheet for others present. 

Welcome and Pledge of Allegiance.  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Constable Holte. 

ATV discussion: ATV usage on town roads: Chairman Monsen opened discussion with why the public meeting was being held.  Noting that residents have expressed interest on ATV usage in the Town of Dunkirk and that ATV’s are used in neighboring communities. 

Supervisor Olson also commented that ATV’s would have to run on township roads, not go faster than 35 miles per hour.

Supervisor Jenks said there would be age restrictions and that currently no insurance is required.  Constable Holte said ages 16 years and up should need to get certified to run ATV’s.

Resident input:  Residents asked why having discussion ATV usage is       already very prevalent, no enforcement.

What would be the cost to set up an ordinance, John Bothum has investigated signage cost and would be around $8,400.00, along with signs there would be legal fees to draft ordinance.   Another concern was mixing auto traffic with ATV’s, who would monitor/enforce proper ATV usage.

In conclusion group was not for perusing the matter due to costs and insufficient law enforcement.

Speed Limits:  Chairman Monsen opened with noting that township roads are used by not only vehicles and larger farm equipment but walkers, joggers, bike riders & dog walkers.  Imposing a 45-mph limit on all town roads or selected sections would help in public safety.  Chairman Olson will check to make sure township does not have to conduct a traffic study before implementing change.

Resident input:  Resident questioned cost of signs and if it was in the budget.  Request to get sheriff report on speeding tickets issued and accidents on town roads.  Resident requested that the board put together a list of criteria that would warrant speed reduction.  Was suggested to put up orange flags on speed limit signs and to obtain a speed board.

In conclusion Board of Directors welcomed the resident’s comments and recommendations and will continue to address this

  Adjournment:   No further business, Supervisor Olson stated a close to the public meeting at 6:40 p.m.    

Submitted 2/21/2023

Kathy Olson, Clerk

Attachments:

List of attendees

Copy of agenda for February 20, 2023 meeting