County Board of Supervisors Meeting Minutes Tuesday October 21, 2025
A. Call to Order
Chairman Thomas Egan called the meeting of the Winnebago County Board of Supervisors to order at 6:08 P.M. from the Winnebago County Courthouse, 415 Jackson Street, Oshkosh, Wisconsin and virtually by TEAMS.
B. Roll Call
The following Supervisors were present: 35 – Dowling, Laux, Ulbricht, Lutz, Holt, Reinke, Hancock-Cooke, Wise, Nussbaum, Stafford, Paterson, Gabert, Binder, Swan, Gilbertson, Mueller, Halbur, Ponzer, Belville, Macho, Hinz, Zellmer, Pluchinsky, Buck, Powers, Hanson, Cox, Bureau, Farrey, Harrison, Frassetto, Egan, O'Brien, Nelson and Miller; Vacant – 1.
C. Pledge of Allegiance
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
D. Invocation
The invocation was given by Supervisor Powers.
E. Adopt Agenda
Motion by Supervisor Farrey, seconded by Supervisor Nussbaum, to adopt the agenda for tonight's meeting as amended. CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE.
F. Public Comments
The following people spoke in support of Ordinance No. 191-102025: "Approve Revised Chapter 27 County Shoreland Zoning Ordinance":
• Holly Stevens, Town of Winchester
• Matt Olson, Town of Winchester
• Jim Erdman, Oshkosh
• Brian Noe, Omro
Dustin Woldt, Fox Crossing, spoke in opposition to Ordinance No. 191-102025: "Approve Revised Chapter 27 County Shoreland Zoning Ordinance."
Ryan Rasmussen, Oshkosh, voiced his thoughts and support regarding Resolution No. 190-102025: "Support Increased Funding for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Wisconsin."
Nate Gustafson, State Representative, Assembly District 55, thanked the board for everything they do, and it has been a pleasure serving with them. Mr. Gustafson also spoke on Resolution No. 190-102025: "Support Increased Funding for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Wisconsin." With the federal shutdown, there are federal funds that are going to impact the SNAP benefits. There have been multiple proposals to fund the government which would open up some of the funding that would come back. He encouraged the board to reach out to Senator Baldwin, who has not voted for the continuation of the government funding bill, as well as urge Governor Evers to use the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to fill this backfill on these SNAP benefits.
Chairman Egan thanked Nate Gustafson for his years of service and for representing them down at the state.
G. Communications from the County Clerk
Julie Barthels, Winnebago County Clerk, presented the following communications:
Ms. Barthels informed the board that the budget books have been placed on their desks tonight for the individuals who requested budget books. There is also the County Board of Supervisors Budget Meeting agenda and packets for October 27, 2025, and October 28, 2025, and an invitation to the County Board Christmas Party on their desks. Please turn in your reservations for the Christmas Party back to the County Clerk's Office by November 21, 2025.
The following claim has been referred to the Personnel & Finance Committee.
• Notice of Claim from Gerald M. Freelon, Progressive Ins., on behalf of Claimant Jacob Ganther
The following Petitions for Zoning Amendments were referred to the Planning and Zoning Committee.
• Petition for Zoning Amendment 001: Wyldewood Baptist Church, Town of Algoma, Rezone from A-2 (General Agriculture District) to B-3 (General Business District) for tax parcel no. 002-0222-01.
• Petition for Zoning Amendment 002: Suzanne Bauer, Town of Omro, Rezone from A-2 (General Agriculture District) for LOT 1 to B-3 (General Business District) and LOT 2 to A-2 (General Agriculture District) for tax parcel nos. 016-0414-03 & 016-0411.
H. Reports from Committees, Commissions and Boards
Supervisor Powers thanked Bill Topel, Human Services Director, for organizing and taking the Supervisors on the tour of the Oshkosh and Neenah Human Services Buildings. She also thanked the County Clerk's Office for providing them dinner.
Supervisor Hinz echoed Supervisor Powers' thanks for the County Board Tour. He mentioned that anyone who had attended the tour had a good chance to learn a lot about the Human Services Buildings, the age of our buildings and the way they're outgrowing them. Mr. Hinz informed the board that the Facilities & Property Management Committee meeting scheduled for October 28, 2025, has been canceled. They are also looking at probably combining their November and December meetings into one December meeting due to the holidays.
Supervisor Stafford requested a budget book.
Supervisor Nelson pointed out that the Land & Water Conservation Department is in the middle of one of their biggest projects, the Van Dyke Breakwall Project. Mr. Nelson distributed a picture on everyone's desk and informed the board on some of the details of the project.
Supervisor Laux informed the board that constituents that are on SNAP did receive a virtual alert that their November benefits for current food stamp food share members will be delayed, and they will be delayed until the Federal Government reopens.
Supervisor Binder mentioned that he had toured the Breakwall Project. He voiced his thoughts and commented on his experience and encouraged fellow supervisors that have the time to take a tour and see how it's done. Mr. Binder stated if any of these projects come along in the future, he would definitely support them because you're basically enhancing the water for the next generation.
I. County Executive's Report and Appointments
Gordon Hintz, County Executive, took a moment to recognize someone who has made a lasting mark on our community this year. Vice-Chairman Farrey received a Lifetime Impact Award from the Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance for his work on water conservation over the last five decades. This is a recognition that reflects decades of dedication, innovation, and quiet leadership. Supervisor Farrey has built a legacy that will keep our water cleaner and our communities stronger for years to come. A short video was shown to the board.
Gordon Hintz, County Executive, commented and provided updates on the following topics:
1. Budget Update
2. Fox Cities Campus
3. Resolution 189-102025: Authorizing the Borrowing of Not to Exceed $28,000,000; and Authorizing the Issuance and Sale of General Obligation Promissory Notes Therefor
4. Ordinance 190-102025: Approve Revised Chapter 27 County Shoreland Zoning Ordinance
5. Federal Shutdown Impacts on Winnebago County
Executive Hintz then took questions from the board.
J. County Board Chair's Report and Appointments
Chairman Egan reported there were no absences for tonight's meeting.
Chairman Egan explained how the budget process would be handled when the Budget Session begins on Monday, October 27, 2025. He reminded all the supervisors and encouraged them that if they have any budget amendments to please send them to the Corporation Counsel's office.
Chairman Egan, asked for the board's approval of the following appointments:
Winnebago County Board of Supervisors, District 28:Robert D. Gustafson, 662 Vera Avenue, Neenah
Robert D. Gustafson introduced himself to the board. Mr. Gustafson then took questions from the board.
Motion by Supervisor Hinz, seconded by Supervisor Wise, to approve. CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE.
Robert D. Gustafson will complete the unexpired term of Nate Gustafson, who resigned from the board. His term will begin immediately and end on April 21, 2026.
Chairman Egan administered the Oath of Office to Robert D. Gustafson, and he was seated as Winnebago County Board Supervisor District 28.
ARPA Strategy & Outcomes Commission:Supervisor Robert D. Gustafson, District 28
Motion by Supervisor Farrey, seconded by Supervisor Buck, to approve. CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE.
Personnel & Finance Committee:Supervisor George Bureau, District 29
Motion by Supervisor Wise, seconded by Supervisor Hanson, to approve. CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE.
K. Honoring Retiring County Employees
1. Resolution 185-102025: Commendation for Claudia Lennop
Submitted by:
PERSONNEL & FINANCE COMMITTEEMotion by Supervisor Cox, seconded by Supervisor Holt, to adopt.
Julie Barthels, Winnebago County Clerk, recognized Claudia Lennop for her employment with Winnebago County.
Vote on Resolution: CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE.
L. Consent Calendar
Consent Calendar Items are those items which are voted on by the Winnebago County Board of Supervisors in a single roll call vote. Committees recommend approval of all items. Any Winnebago County Board of Supervisor may request an Item be removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion. Questions relating to items on the Consent Calendar do not require the item be removed from the Consent Calendar.
1. Approval of Proceedings for September 2, 2025, Special Orders Session and September 16, 2025, Adjourned Session of the Winnebago County Board of Supervisors
2. Report 001 and Zoning Amendatory Ordinance 10/001/25: Danny L. Buser Liv Tst, Town of Winchester, Rezone from R-1 (Rural Residential District) to A-2 (General Agriculture District) for tax parcel no. 028-0449-07.
3. Report 002 and Zoning Amendatory Ordinance 10/002/25: Thomas W. & Deborah A. Rosenfeldt Liv Tst, Town of Neenah, Rezone from A-2 (General Agriculture District) to R-1 (Rural Residential District) for tax parcel no. 010-0310-01-02.Submitted by:
PLANNING & ZONING COMMITTEE
Supervisor Miller requested that this item be pulled from the Consent Calendar.
4. Report 003 and Zoning Amendatory Ordinance 10/003/25: Town of Clayton, Town of Clayton, Rezone from A-2 (General Agriculture District) to R-4 (Suburban High Density Residential District) for tax parcel no. 006-0328-02-02.
5. Resolution 186-102025: Approve Renewal of a Lease Agreement between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Winnebago CountySubmitted by:
AVIATION COMMITTEE
FACILITIES & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Supervisor Dowling requested that this item be pulled from the Consent Calendar.
6. Resolution 187-102025: Approve Continuation of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the FAA and Winnebago County
Submitted by:
AVIATION COMMITTEE
FACILITIES & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
7. RESOLUTION 188-102025: Approve a Ground Lease Agreement between M2 Group, LLC and Winnebago CountySubmitted by:
AVIATION COMMITTEE
FACILITIES & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Supervisor Swan requested that this item be pulled from the Consent Calendar.
Motion by Supervisor Farrey, seconded by Supervisor Stafford to adopt the consent calendar excluding:
3. Report 002 and Zoning Amendatory Ordinance 10/002/25: Thomas W. & Deborah A. Rosenfeldt Liv Tst, Town of Neenah, Rezone from A-2 (General Agriculture District) to R-1 (Rural Residential District) for tax parcel no. 010-0310-01-02.
5. Resolution 186-102025: Approve Renewal of a Lease Agreement between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Winnebago County
7. Resolution 188-102025: Approve a Ground Lease Agreement between M2 Group, LLC and Winnebago County
VOTE ON CONSENT CALENDAR: CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE. (Nayes: 1 – Swan)
ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR3. Report 002 and Zoning Amendatory Ordinance 10/002/25: Thomas W. & Deborah A. Rosenfeldt Liv Tst, Town of Neenah, Rezone from A-2 (General Agriculture District) to R-1 (Rural Residential District) for tax parcel no. 010-0310-01-02.
Supervisor Miller requested to make one correction. There was a typo on the Staff Report. It should read that the committee voted to "approve", not "deny". This passed by a unanimous vote.
Motion by Supervisor Miller, seconded by Supervisor Farrey to adopt as corrected.
Vote on Report 002 and Zoning Amendatory Ordinance 10/002/25 as amended.
CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE.
5. Resolution 186-102025: Approve Renewal of a Lease Agreement between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Winnebago CountySubmitted by:
AVIATION COMMITTEE
FACILITIES & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Motion by Supervisor Farrey, seconded by Supervisor Hinz to adopt as submitted.
CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE. (Nayes: 1 – Dowling)
7. Resolution 188-102025: Approve a Ground Lease Agreement between M2 Group, LLC and Winnebago CountySubmitted by:
AVIATION COMMITTEE
FACILITIES & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Motion by Supervisor Swan, seconded by Supervisor Farrey to adopt.
CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE. (Nayes: 1 – Dowling)
M. Presentations
1. Presentation on Authorizing the Borrowing of Not to Exceed $28,000,000; and Authorizing the Issuance and Sale of General Obligation Promissory Notes Therefor — Paul Kaiser, Finance Director & Justin Fischer, Managing Director, BairdPaul Kaiser, Finance Director, and Justin Fischer, Managing Director, Baird gave a presentation on the borrowing of $28M.
Paul Kaiser and Justin Fischer then took questions from the board.
N. Business Items, Resolutions, and Ordinances
1. Resolution 189-102025: Authorizing the Borrowing of Not to Exceed$28,000,000; and Authorizing the Issuance and Sale of General Obligation Promissory Notes ThereforSubmitted by:
PERSONNEL & FINANCE COMMITTEE
Motion by Supervisor Cox, seconded by Supervisor Holt to adopt.
Vote on resolution. AYES: 26; NAYES: 7 – Dowling, Lutz, Stafford, Gabert, Hanson, O'Brien and Miller; ABSTAIN: 3 – Binder, Gilbertson and Farrey; ABSENT: 0. MOTION FAILED.
Motion by Supervisor Hanson, seconded by Supervisor Lutz, to reconsider. CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE. (NAYES: 2 – Dowling and Farrey)
Motion by Supervisor Powers, seconded by Supervisor Reinke, to bring back Resolution
189-102025: Authorizing the Borrowing of Not to Exceed $28,000,000; and Authorizing the Issuance and Sale of General Obligation Promissory Notes Therefor to the floor for discussion.
CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE. (NAYES: 2 – Dowling and Farrey)
Motion by Supervisor Cox, seconded by Supervisor Holt to adopt.
Vote on resolution. AYES: 30; NAYES: 5 – Dowling, Lutz, Gabert, O'Brien and Miller; ABSTAIN: 1 – Farrey; ABSENT: 0. MOTION PASSED.
At 8:49 p.m., Chairman Egan announced that the board would take a short 10-minute recess.
Chairman Egan called the meeting back into session at 9:02 p.m.
2. Resolution 190-102025: Support Increased Funding for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in WisconsinSubmitted by:
SUPERVISOR KATE HANCOCK-COOKE, DISTRICT 7
Motion by Supervisor Hancock-Cooke, seconded by Supervisor Reinke to adopt.
Motion by Supervisor Hanson, seconded by Supervisor Dowling, to refer this to the Legislative Committee.
Vote to refer to the Legislative Committee. AYES: 13 – Dowling, Paterson, Gabert, Swan, Mueller, Hinz, Zellmer, Hanson, Cox, Bureau, Harrison, Frassetto and O'Brien; NAYES: 22; ABSTAIN: 0; ABSENT: 1 – Gustafson. MOTION FAILED.
Back to original resolution.
Motion by Supervisor Gilbertson, seconded by Supervisor Lutz to call the question. Vote on call the question: CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE. (ABSTAIN: 1 – Dowling) Vote on resolution. CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE. (ABSTAIN: 1 – Dowling)
3. Ordinance 191-102025: Approve Revised Chapter 27 County Shoreland Zoning OrdinanceSubmitted by:
PLANNING & ZONING COMMITTEE
Motion by Supervisor Miller, seconded by Supervisor Farrey to adopt.
Motion by Supervisor Dowling, to make an amendment. On line 32, strike "November 21, 2025" and replace it with "March 17, 2026." This motion died for lack of a second.
Vote on resolution. AYES: 32; NAYES: 3 – Dowling, Lutz and Ponzer; ABSTAIN: 1 – Halbur; ABSENT: 0. MOTION PASSED.
O. Adjourn
Motion by Supervisor Lutz, seconded by Supervisor Stafford, to adjourn until the October 27, 2025, Budget Session of the Winnebago County Board of Supervisors. CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE. The meeting was adjourned at 10:19 p.m.
Submitted by:
Cassie J. Smith-Gregor
Winnebago County Chief Deputy Clerk
State of Wisconsin) County of Winnebago) ss
I, Cassie J. Smith-Gregor do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the Journal of the Winnebago County Board of Supervisors for their Business Meeting held October 21, 2025.
Cassie J. Smith-Gregor
Winnebago County Chief Deputy Clerk
The video portion of this meeting is available on the County website: https://winnebagocowi.portal.civicclerk.com
WNAXLP
December 4 2025
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