Around the Clock - Fall 2022

Mayors Corner

Welcome to Around the Clock Newsletter. City staff has put this newsletter together to keep you updated. We would like to welcome our new Police Chief Dan Jenks. Building permits were issued for portions of Kettle Park West (KPW) Phase 2. Lennar has taken out twenty eight building permits and begun construction including a model home. Milio’s and Sherwin Williams recently opened. Sports Treasures will be opening next to Dollar Tree. U.S. Cellular has moved down a couple of doors from Hanson Electronics.

Eldon Homes submitted an Urban Service Area Amendment and Preliminary Plat for one hundred units of single family homes and duplexes south of Stoughton, called Magnolia Springs. The 51 West apartments has begun construction.

The Redevelopment Authority (RDA) is under contract with Madison developer Curt Brink for the Riverfront Project. The Material Maintenance Plan for remediation required by the DNR is satisfied. Work at the former Marathon site continues.

Several Main St. businesses have or will be opening, moving, or expanding including; Vapes & Cigars #3, Northern Compass Boutique, Edward Jones-Jessica Knutson, Evoke Framing, Black Cat Café, Ben & Joe Food, Cheesers upstairs, Diakonos Designs, “Bee’s on Main” Guest Apartments, above BroodMinder, Bear Arms Performing Arts center, JTC Fitness and Kraemer Development, LLC purchased the former Pizza Hut building.

The City of Stoughton 175th Anniversary continues with the announcement of the 2020, 2021, 2022 Stoughton Hall of Fame Inductees. Burns Kaupanger, Walter Eggleson and Fern Homme respectively. Look for events and streaming videos of our history https://www.visitstoughton.com/stoughton-celebrates/175-events . If you are interested in participating, contact Callie at the Chamber/Visitor Services. Other notable accomplishments include:

• Emmi-Roth- began site work

• Authorized of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, 10k Sustainability Committee

• Stoughton Utilities Employee Realignment

• DOT Roundabouts completed

• Local Road Projects nearly completed

• Sustainability Community Dialogue was held

• Secured a $225,000 in Department of Natural Resources Municipal Flood Control Grant Funds for river restoration

• Movies in the Park were held at Nordic Ridge

• City Audit accepted

• Nygaard extended to Greenbrier Rd, and opened at Highway 51, a portion of Velkommen Way was vacated

• Rezoning and parking updates completed in several developments

Please join me for “Coffee with the Mayor” at The Senior Center and follow us on Facebook-City of Stoughton, WI

Around the Clock Fa 2022

nance & A oun ng ci.stoughton.wi.us/

David P. Ehlinger, CPA - Director of nance / Comptro er

ATTENTION CITY OF STOUGHTON TAXPAYERS

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

• Mail –You are encouraged to pay your property taxes by mail using the pre-addressed pink envelope provided to you with your tax bill. Please include the bottom portion of your tax bill with your payment. No cash payments will be accepted.

• Online - Once again this year you are able to pay online with a credit card or e-check. Please note 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. To make either a credit card or e-check payment visit our website at https://client.pointandpay.net/web/CityofStoughtonWI

• Dropbox – There is a drop box located in the 3rd drive-thru lane behind City Hall (One Community Bank). The drop box is open 24/7 and will be emptied daily. There is video surveillance and a light directly above it for security purposes. Please include the bottom portion of your tax bill with your payment and no cash payments will be accepted.

• In person – City Hall at this time will be open for in person payment. No cash payments will be accepted. We will be closed on December 23rd, 26th, and January 2nd and 17th. The above 3 options are available for payments during this time.

• A receipt will be returned to you only if the payment is accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope or if you provide an email address for an emailed receipt.

• Payments postmarked on or before December 31, 2022 will be credited as paid in 2022.

• Refunds on overpayments of taxes are mailed out weekly after your check has cleared our bank. Refunds will not be issued on amounts under $5.00 unless requested.

Lo ery Tax Credits

• Did you move into your home during 2022? If you owned your home and use it as your primary residence as of January 1, 2022, 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, 2022 there are a limited number of circumstances that will allow you to receive the credit this year.

• 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.

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

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est St, Stoughton

Ac vi es & Events

Basketball – Little Viking Kindergarten

This program will cover ten classes where players will be introduced to basic fundamentals and work on developing movement skills that are necessary to play basketball. A certified coach will be teaching the class. Parents are welcome to volunteer and assist with coaching activities if they would like to be involved and learn about basketball coaching.

Basketball – Little Viking 1st Grade

This program will cover ten classes where players will be introduced to basic fundamentals and work on developing movement skills that are necessary to play basketball. A certified coach will be teaching the class. Parents are welcome to volunteer and assist with coaching activities if they would like to be involved and learn about basketball coaching.

Basketball – Junior Viking 2nd Grade

Players will learn the basic fundamentals and work on developing movement skills that are necessary to play basketball. Players will work on fundamentals and small sided games. A certified coach will be teaching the class. Volunteer Parents are needed to assist with coaching activities.

Days: Saturday Mornings

Dates: November 5 – January 28 (No Class Nov. 26, Dec. 24, Dec. 31)

Times: Kindergarten - 9:00-:9:45am, 1st Grade - 10:00-10:45am, 2nd Grade –11:00am-12:00pm

Location: Yahara Gym (900 W Wilson St.)

Fees: Kindergarten-$80, 1st Grade-$80, 2nd Grade-$85

Basketball – 3rd/4th Grade Boys Travel League

DATES TO BE DETERMINED (Saturday games, plus weeknight practices)

The Stoughton Recreation Department is teaming 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 (either Tuesday or Thursday). Children will receive a reversible jersey. Volunteer coaches are needed.

Days: Saturday Games and Weeknight Practice (either Tuesday or Thursday)

Dates: Mid-December – Mid-February (Dates TBD)

Times: TBD

Location: Home Games at Community Building, away games TBD Fee: $85

Basketball – 3rd/4th Grade Girls Travel League

DATES TO BE DETERMINED (Saturday games, plus weeknight practices)

The Stoughton Recreation Department is teaming 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 (either Tuesday or Thursday). Children will receive a reversible jersey.

Volunteer coaches are needed.

Days: Saturday Games and Weeknight Practice (either Tuesday or Thursday) Dates: Mid-December – Mid-February (Dates TBD)

Times: TBD

Location: Home Games at Community Building, away games TBD Fee: $85

Adult Ac vi es

Adult Basketball Leagues

Men’s League is on Saturdays in the afternoon. Women’s League is on Tuesday evenings. Men’s 35+ League is on Friday evenings. All games are played at the Community Building. Click on the league names for more information on each league including registration, rules, etc.

Men’s Saturday League

Women’s Tuesday League

Men’s 35+ Friday League

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Ac vi es & Events (Con nued)

Dance – Junior Dance

Glissade, pirouette and chasse´ your way across the floor as you learn fundamental dance repertoire while preparing for the end of session recital. Each Junior Dance class follows four basics •Teach It! Each class students are taught dance fundamentals. •Practice It! Students practice those funda mentals as a group and individually. •Move It! They implement what they’ve learned into across-the-floor and bar routines. •Dance It! Finally, students put it all together in a choreographed routine in preparation for the recital.

Grades: K-5th • Dates: January 7 - February 25 • Days: Saturdays Time: 5:00–6:00pm • Location: Stoughton Area Youth Center • Fee: $90

Futsal (Indoor Soccer) – 1st/2nd Grade

Futsal is an indoor version of soccer that is played around the world. Players participate in "open-play" games that encourage creativity, develop foot skills, and teamwork. Soccer coaches give tips when appropriate. Futsal has been instrumental in developing soccer talent in Brazil.

Days: Wednesdays • Dates: November 23-December 21

Times: 6:15-7:15pm

• Location: Yahara Gym (900 W Wilson St.)

Futsal (Indoor Soccer) – 3rd/4th Grade

• Fees: $35

Futsal is an indoor version of soccer that is played around the world. Players participate in "open-play" games that encourage creativity, develop foot skills, and teamwork. Soccer coaches give tips when appropriate. Futsal has been instrumental in developing soccer talent in Brazil.

Days: Wednesdays • Dates: November 23-December 21 Times: 7:30-8:30pm • Location: Yahara Gym (900 W Wilson St.) • Fees: $35

Youth Painting Class – Holiday 2022

For this class the children will be doing a painting of a cute snowman. 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 holiday season or give as a holiday gift! December 22nd is a NO SCHOOL DAY.

Ages: 5-12 years old • Day: Thursday • Date: December 22nd (NO SCHOOL DAY) Time: 9:00-11:00am • Location: Stoughton Area Youth Center • Fee: $50

Coding – Scratch Animation

Scratch® is a kid friendly and safe online platform that is inventive and thorough in its application. It uses a drag-and-drop icon based method that is intuitive for beginners, but includes depth for even advanced coders. Grades: 2nd-5th

Dates: January 3–February 7 • Days: Tuesdays • Time: 6:10–7:10pm Location: Stoughton Area Youth Center • Fee: $80

Chess

These budding grandmasters start the program learning the basics of piece movement, capture, check, piece value, and of course, sportsmanship. Grades: K-5th • Dates: February 2–March 23 • Days: Thursdays Time: 6:10–7:10pm • Location: Stoughton Area Youth Center • Fee: $100

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 in 5th-8th grade during after-school hours, the program has expanded to include high school students with great programming that is both fun and educational.

Art Programs

Stoughton Youth Center is offering an Art Program on Wednes days and Thursdays from 4:00pm-5:30pm. Anyone is welcome to come in and create anything they want. Whether it is painting on a canvas, making jewelry, or drawing. On special occasions we will do different art projects for holidays or events!

Gym Space

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

Video Games

The Stoughton Area Youth Center has an Xbox 360 and a Playstation 4 with age appropriate games and controllers that can be checked out for use. Donations of money, Games rated E to T and controllers are always needed. Also if you have a game system you would like to donate we would me more than happy to take it.

Board Games

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

Lounge

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

Regular hours:

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Stoughton’s Co unity

NOW AVAILABLE IN HD!

WSTO TV is now fully in HD on TDS Cable. TDS Cable Subscribers in the Stoughton Area can now watch WSTO programming in HD! WSTO has been producing HD content since 2019 posting and streaming online in HD but now you can watch it on your television with TDS TV

Video On Demand

WSTO TV has extensive HD Video-on-demand on our website at https://www.wsto.tv as well as our YouTube channel. Subscibe to the YouTube channel for the latest content!

Check out our NEW APPS!

WSTO TV is now on Roku and AppleTV! Search for WSTO TV on either platform. We also have Fire TV, Android and iOS Apps in development. At the time of publications they are not live yet. For the latest updated tune in to WSTO TV or watch our Facebook and Twitter accounts for updates!

W

Show

New Programming Comming!

WSTO TV is in the procress of developing and reviving content! Shows in development would increase information provided to the citizens of Stoughton! If you have an idea for a show or would like to produce content for WSTO TV please email us at info@wsto.tv. WSTO TV is YOUR local community media center and is OPEN to the public and public productions.

City Social Media A ounts

Facebook: City of Stoughton Wisconsin, Police, Fire, EMS, Library, Stoughton Opera House, WSTO TV, Utilities, Stoughton Area Senior Center, Stoughton Recreation, Troll Beach, Gazebo Musikk, Youth Center

Twitter: @StoughtonRec @WSTOTV

Instagram: Library, Stoughton Opera House, Recreation, Utilities

YouTube: WSTO TV, Senior Center Roku: WSTO TV AppleTV: WSTO

10pm

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Department of Public Works

Bulk Waste Co ec on

Under the ‘bulk-on-call’ program, you have more flexibility to choose when you want your bulk items collected.

Whenever you have bulk items to dispose of, simply call Johns Disposal to schedule a pick up. You are allowed one bulk item collection per month. Please call 262-473-4700 to schedule the collection of your bulky items. You can schedule your collection anytime during the month. Bulk items will be collected within 7-days of when you place your call.

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

• *NEW* Electronics (see approved list)

• Humidifiers/De-humidifiers, Air Conditioners, Water Softeners

Unacceptable Bulk Items:

• Yard waste

• Hazardous materials

• Liquid paint

• Loose bulk construction materials

All items for bulk pick up should be placed within 2 feet of curbside and 6 feet from the carts. If you have a question about a specific item, please call Johns Disposal at 262-473-4700.

E-waste

Stoughton residents can dispose of up to two (2) qualified household electronics at the curb each year as part of the bulk on-call program. Residents are currently afforded one bulk items collection per month for a total of 12 collections per year.

Yard Waste Site

Site Guidelines

• The site is open to residents and non-residents. There is an annual fee for the use of the site. There is a $20.00 fee for residents of Stoughton and a $25.00 fee for all non-residents.

Bring a driver's license or utility bill with a current address for proof of residency.

• A 2nd sticker is available for $5.00 for multiple vehicles. If your sticker is lost there will be a $5.00 charge for replace ment.

• No commercial haulers or landscapers.

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

Acceptable Materials Unacceptable 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)

Solid Waste- garbage, recyclables, food waste.

Construction debris, rocks, dirt

Stumps, root balls, etc

Hours: Tues & Thurs 1pm - 7pm • Sat 8am - 3pm April 1st, 2022 - November 23rd, 2022

Note: To protect the safety of the staff and public, the yard waste site may close early during inclement weather

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

Just like the bulky collection, each e-waste collection must be scheduled by calling Johns Disposal at: 262-473-4700

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)

• fax machines

• cell phones

If you have any questions about if an item can or can’t be set out, or to schedule a collection, please call John’s Disposal at 262-473-4700.

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

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Fa Curbside Leaf Co ec on

Fall Leaf Collection will start October 10th and will continue through November 20th. You can put your leaves on the terrace any time during this period.

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

From Leaves to Usable Compost

Each year city crews collect roughly 930 tons of leaves curbside from homes and businesses in Stoughton. So what do we do with all those leaves? Well, we turn them into usable compost. The composting process takes about a year depending on weather conditions. We then run the composted material through a trammel screen to remove any rocks, trash or other inorganic material. Finished compost is then made available to city residents to use. We also have wood chips available from our treecycling program. It is first come, first serve and you must supply and load your own containers.

Please keep in mind, it may take crews several days to make it through the entire community. We will continue to loop through the entire city at least one per week. To make sure your leaves are collected, try to have them out each Monday. Once crews go by, they may not be back around until the next week.

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

The proce of Turning Leaves into Usable Compost

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

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 responsibili ty of the homeowner to replace.

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

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.

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 (See WSTO section for ways to watch).

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

You can sign up to get an email notification when snow emergencies are declared. Type “Snow Emergency Notification” in the search box on the main page of the city website. Enter your email address and click “Submit”.

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Pla ing & Development

Seasonal Ordinance Reminders

PRIVATE PROPERTY SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL REQUIREMENTS

Sec. 64-13. Snow and ice removal.

(a) The occupant or owner of any lot or parcel abutting on a public sidewalk, other than the parcels located in the downtown corridor specified in section 64-13(c), shall remove therefrom by 9:00 a.m. on the second day following a snowfall, all snow, dirt, rubbish or refuse matter, and sprinkle ice with a material to prevent slipping. (For example: a snowfall occurs on Monday, the occupant or owner would have until 9:00 a.m. Wednesday). If the occupant or owner does not comply with this section, the director of public works or their designee may issue a citation and may cause the work to be done and the expense reported to the city finance director, who shall annually enter such expense on the tax roll as a special tax against the lot or parcel of land. The owner or occupant shall also be subject to a forfeiture for each violation of this section, with penalties as set forth in section 1-3. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation.

(b) No snow or ice removed from private property, other than the parcels located in the downtown corridor specified in section 64-13(c), shall be deposited in the public ways in areas expected to be cleared by the city. This would include, but would not be limited to, pushing snow or ice across a public roadway or sidewalk; pushing or carrying and depositing snow or ice on a public way expected to be maintained for pedestrian or vehicular traffic; and the blowing or throwing of snow or ice onto a pedestrian or vehicular area. Violation of any of these provisions may result in penalties as set forth in section 1-3. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation. If the occupant or owner does not comply with this section, the director of public works may cause the work to be done and the expense reported to the city finance director who shall annually enter such expense on the tax roll as a special tax against the lot or parcel of land.

(c) The occupant or owner of any lot or parcel abutting a public sidewalk in the downtown corridor, specified below, shall remove therefrom all snow, dirt, rubbish or refuse matter to the curb line and sprinkle ice with a material to prevent slipping within 24 hours after the conclusion of a snowfall. Violation of any of these provisions may result in penalties as set forth in section 1-3. Each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate violation. If the occupant or owner does not comply with this section, the director of public works may cause the work to be done and the expense reported to the city finance director who shall annually enter such expense on the tax roll as a special tax against the lot or parcel of land.

"Downtown corridor" defined: Main Street-Railroad Track to S. Page Street Water Street-Jefferson Street to Washington Street Division Street-Jefferson Street to Washington Street Forrest Street-Jefferson Street to Washington Street Fourth Street-Jefferson Street to Washington Street

OUTDOOR FIREWOOD STORAGE REQUIREMENTS

Sec. 78-723. Outdoor storage of firewood standards.

(l) No 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) Firewood 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 provi sions of this Code of Ordinances.

(5) Not 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.

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 right-of-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 CONTACT THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR AT 608-646-0421.

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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 recreation vehicle is any of the following: Motor Home, Jetski, Boat, all trailers, campers, snowmobiles, off-road motorcycles, ATVs and similar vehicles.

PARKING AND STORAGE OF RECREATIONAL VEHICLES AND TRAILERS IN RESIDENTIAL, OFFICE, AND BUSINESS DISTRICTS ARE PERMITTED IN THE FOLLOWING MANNER: Recreational vehicles and trailers:

(a) Parked or stored within the front yard or side yard must be on a driveway that is made of a dust free, continual hard surface such as concrete or asphalt pavement and shall be a minimum of five feet from any private property line or right-of-way line. Permeable pavement including turfstone is also allowable. The side yard shall end at the rear of the home.

(b) May be parked in the rear yard, beyond the rear of the home without the need for a hard surface, subject to all other conditions. Note: Corner lots have two fronts.

(c) Shall be owned by the resident who is occupying the property on which the vehicle or trailer is parked or stored.

(d) Are permitted only for storage purposes except mobile homes and campers may be used for overnight sleeping for a maximum of 14 days in one calendar year.

(e) May not be connected to wastewater or sanitary sewer lines, or electricity except for charging of batteries.

(f) May not be used for storage of goods, materials or equipment other than those items considered to be part of the unit or essential for its use.

(g) Shall be placed a minimum of five feet from all property lines and shall not be parked within any easement.

(h) Maximum number allowed outside of a building per property is three unless the property is zoned and approved for such outdoor storage.

(i) A trailer with multiple recreational vehicles on it shall be considered one recreational vehicle, but all recreational vehicles on the trailer shall be owned by the resident occupying the property on which the trailer is parked.

j) Individual canoes, kayaks and similar vehicles not on a trailer are exempt from these requirements.

TRAFFIC VISIBILITY AT INTERSECTIONS

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) Requirement. 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

66 Feet or less

More than 66 feet

Distance from Right-of-Way to intersection 10 feet 30 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 ADJA CENT TO PUBLIC SIDEWALKS.

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

New Program Offers Low-Cost Rain Barrels to Local Residents and Businesses

Dane County and the Madison Area Municipal Stormwater Partnership (MAMSWaP) are now accepting orders for low-cost 50-gallon rain barrels. Rain barrels capture and contain rainwater from downspouts for use after the storm when it can seep back into the ground slowly This reduces the amount of stormwater runoff that can carry pollutants down storm drains into our lakes, rivers and streams. Harvested water can be used later to water lawns, gardens, and potted plants helping to conserve water and save you money!

Dane County is selling 50 gallon rain barrels at a discounted rate of $74 (typically retails for -$150) This program is open to all Dane County residents and businesses. If you live in a MAMSWaP community, you are eligible to apply for an additional $30 reimbursement. Rain barrels will be available for pickup at the Middleton Recycling Center and Deforest Yardwaste Collection Site during normal operating hours for those facilities.

For more information on how to order a rain barrel, and how to apply for available reimbursement programs, please visit www.ripple-effects com/rainbarrels Your actions can have a Ripple Effect on our waters!

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Adopt-A-Storm Drain

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for saving

Go Ahead,

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 21 – December 2 with your donations. PLUS, with each item donated, customers will be entered into a drawing to win prizes including smart thermostats, utility bill credits and more!

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!

Stoughton U li es RoundUp Program Donates

to Stoughton Lions Club

Stoughton Utilities recently donated $1,000 to Stoughton Lions Club. 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. Stoughton Lions Club supports the community with a variety of programs including their annual Stuff the Bus school supply donation drive, vision screenings in schools, diabetes awareness causes, and more. The Lions Club also helps to send community members with vision disabilities to the Wisconsin Lions Camp each summer.

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.

Stoughton Utilities customers can receive a $25 bill credit incentive with the purchase of certain ENERGY STAR® rated appliances. 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, and air purifiers. 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 2022 only. Completed forms and sales receipts must be received prior to December 1, 2022. Visit stoughtonutilities.com/incentives for full details and to download reimbursement forms.

Mercury – Do You Have it in

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

thermometers

Fluorescent light bulbs

Medical fever thermometers

Latex paints made before 1990

Thermostats

Blood pressure cuffs

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

danecountycleansweep.com.

about mercury

be found at dnr.wi.gov/topic/mercury.

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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.

Give Them a Brake!

Slow down, and drive safely in utility work zones.

Working outdoors during Wisconsin’s hot summers and unpredictable storms 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, depends on it!

• Always buckle up.

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

• Always slow down, and travel at posted work zone speed limits.

• Minimize distractions, such as cell phone use.

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

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

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

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L k for Air Leaks, and Stay Warm

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

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

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

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

K p Your re Hydrants Clear

Tr 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 home 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.

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

What should you do?

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

Adopt A Hydrant

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

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Winter U lity Bi s

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.

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Online E-Bi ing 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 Auto-Pay 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 Auto-pay, 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.

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.

Wisconsin Home Energy A istance Program

As a customer of Stoughton Utilities, you may be eligible for the State of Wisconsin’s Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP). This program was established to help members of our state with limited financial resources to cover their winter energy costs, including both electricity and natural gas or other heating fuels. WHEAP electric (non-heating) assistance is a one-time benefit payment during the heating season of October 1-May 15. The funding pays a portion of the household’s costs, but the payment is not intended to cover the entire cost of the non-heating costs, and will not cover any part of your water or wastewater charges.

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

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

Under the eligibility requirements, customers at or below 60 percent of the state’s median income may qualify for WHEAP assistance, including:

• A single person with an annual income below $32,103 per year;

• A couple without children with an annual income below $41,981;

• A family of three with an annual income below $51,859;

• A family of four with an income of up to $61,738;

• 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.

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Educate, Enrich, Empower, Engage!

South Fourth

Open Monday - Thursday 9am - 9pm

Upcoming Events

New programs and events are being added all the time! For the most up-to-date information, visit our online calendar at https://www.stolib.org/calendar/month

Writing Critique Group

Second Saturday of each month, 10-11 AM, at the Library Are you a writer looking to connect with your local community and receive constructive criticism to improve your work? Join our writing critique group on the second Saturday morning of each month. Writers may bring a 6-page (12 pt, double-spaced) sample to share. No registration required. If you’d like to receive an email reminder about the group please email us at storef@stolib.org

Important Decisions: Advance Care Planning

Saturday, October 29, 1:00 PM Make the important decision now to select the individual YOU want to make healthcare decisions for you, in the event that you lose your ability to make decisions. Stoughton City Alder and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Jean Ligocki will walk you through completing your own Advance Directive. Optionally, two witnesses will be available to sign off on your paperwork so it’s ready to file with your healthcare provider. Registration is not required, but if you’d like to receive an email reminder about this program, please visit https://forms.gle/UTSaefGzrdVrdWKF8

Lisa Napoli’s Susan, Linda, Nina, and Cokie: The Extraordinary Story of the Founding Mothers of NPR Wednesday, November 2, 3:00 PM. Virtual event (link below) You’re invited to an enlightening online program with highly acclaimed writer, journalist, broadcaster, and speaker Lisa Napoli as she discusses her group biography of the four women whose voices defined National Public Radio. A recording will be available if you can’t watch live. Register and view here: https://libraryc.org/stoughtonpubliclibrary/21364

Yoga Sundays

November 6 & December 4 at Stoughton Yoga, 101 Silverado Dr. In partnership with the library, Stoughton Yoga is offering free all-levels flow yoga classes for ages 16 and up. Detailed instructions make these classes accessible to all. Space is limited and registration for each class is required. Please email storef@stolib.org or call 608-873-6281 to register.

Bonnie Garmus’s Lessons in Chemistry

& Saturday 9am - 5pm

1pm - 5pm

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.

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.

Ge ing a Library Card Library Features

Thursday, November 10, 1:00 PM. Virtual event (link below) Join us for a dazzlingly entertaining virtual chat with author Bonnie Garmus as she discusses her debut New York Times bestselling novel Lessons in Chemistry. The story is set in 1960s California and features the singular voice of Chemist Elizabeth Zott, a scientist whose career takes an unexpected detour. A recording will be available if you can’t watch live. Register and view here: https://libraryc.org/stoughtonpubliclibrary/21365

Indigenous Feminism: Stories of Identity and Stereotypes

Saturday, November 12, 2:00-3:30 PM, in the library’s Carnegie Room (lower level)

talk about their leadership roles and work in the community as well as the challenges of Indigeneity in a colonized society.

panel of Indigenous women and femmes from throughout the Midwest

of this program is to address stereotypes of Native femininity and these connections to the international epidemic of

murdered Indigenous women). Livestream available here: Registration is not required, but sign up here for an email reminder

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Kwame Christian’s How to Have Difficult Conversations About Race: Practical Tools for Necessary Change in the Workplace and Beyond

Tuesday, November 15th, 11:00 AM. Virtual event (link below) Do you want to gain confidence to not only talk about race, but actually make a difference when you do? Join us for an online discussion with bestselling author Kwame Christian, Esq., as he chats about his new book. A recording will be available if you can’t watch live. Register and view here: https://libraryc.org/stoughtonpubliclibrary/21368

UW Madison’s Go Big Read: How the Word is Passed

Tuesday, November 15, 6:30 PM at the Library

Wednesday, November 16, 1:00 PM at the Senior Center

Join us for a discussion of this year’s Go Big Read title, How the Word is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America by Clint Smith. A limited supply of free copies are available to pick up at the top floor Information desk. No registration required, but sign up for an email reminder if you like: https://forms.gle/hfJkrDkubTNio9yC8

Story mes & Kids Ac vi es

Story Times Twice a Week!

Mondays and Thursdays, October 3 – December 22 9:30 AM, in the Carnegie Room Story time will continue INDOORS this fall! Join us on Monday and/or Thursday mornings for stories, songs, activities, and a simple craft.

No registration required. Recommended for ages 2-6, but older and younger children are more than welcome!

Baby Story Time Tuesdays

October 4 – December 20, 9:30 AM, in the Carnegie Room

Join us for rhymes, fingerplays, songs and stories and activities! Ages 0-2.

Crafty Kids: Butter Slime

Wednesday, October 26, 3:30 PM, in the Carnegie Room

Join us as we whip up some oozy, disgusting butter slime, just in time for Halloween! Ages 8-10.

Costume Dance Party

Friday, October 28, 10:30-11:00 AM

Fire Department Training Room

Show off your favorite costume and boogie down to sweet tunes! Geared to ages 0-5.

Graphic Novel Book Club: The Tea Dragon Society

Tuesday, November 1, 3:45 PM

Join us to discuss a graphic novel and do a related activity. Books will be available a month before we meet. Recommended for ages 6-11.

Pokemon Club

Wednesday, November 9, 3:30 PM

Join fellow Pokémon fanatics for Pokémon related activities and meet-up. Ages 6-11.

Stuffed Animal Sleepover

Wednesday, November 16-Thursday, November 17 Drop off your stuffed animals on Wednesday, November 16 at the Children’s Desk and fill out a nametag. Then pick up your stuffed animal on Thursday, November 17, and see what your friends were up to overnight on the Stoughton Public Library Facebook page!

Open Gaming

Thursday, November 17, 4-5:30 PM

Eat snacks, have fun, and hang out and play some video games and tabletop games! Ages 8-16. No registration required.

DiNovember

Friday, November 18, 10-11 AM

Celebrate DiNovember with crafts and activities! Geared to ages 0-5

Crafty Kids: Stained Glass

Wednesday, November 30, 3:30 PM

Drop in to create a beautiful and unique piece of faux stained glass! Ages 6-10

Notes from our Friends

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

B k Discu ion Groups

Our three monthly book discussion groups have resumed in-person meetings! As the weather warms, we may occasionally hold book discussions outdoors in some of the beautiful parks our city has to offer.

Depending on local case rates, masks may be required at indoor discussions. For details on meeting locations and book selections, 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.

We have video games!

Thanks to a start-up gift from an anonymous donor, we now have video games for Xbox, Playstation 4, and Nintendo Switch!

Newer and “classic” titles are available for check-out for 2 weeks. You’ll find them on the our 2nd floor near the DVDs. Browse our collection of games here.

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A i onal Library Services

Streaming Video from Kanopy

Introducing Kanopy: a video streaming service available to all Stoughton Public Library cardholders. Stream over 30,000 films instantly. No holds lists, no waiting. All you need is a your library card. Hit movies, classics, award winners, world cinema, indies, documentaries, and more! Plus Kanopy Kids and lectures in the Great Courses™ series.

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

Libby

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

Users of Libby also have access to thousands of magazine titles! Click or tap on the Collections option at the top of the screen to browse periodicals in over a dozen categories. Titles include: Better Homes & Gardens, Bon Appétit, Clean Eating, Cook’s Illustrated, The Economist, Harper’s, HGTV Magazine, House Beautiful, In Touch Weekly, The New Yorker, Newsweek, Reader’s Digest, Rolling Stone, Us Weekly, Vogue and more!

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

Access any of the following resources by visiting stolib.org/resources. Many of these sites require you to enter a valid Stoughton Public Library card number.

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

Find detailed auto repair information for almost any make and model car, foreign and domestic, 1974-present. Includes step-by-step repair service instructions as well as detailed photos and diagrams. And check out the Small Engine Repair Reference Center for service and repair info on marine/boat motors, motorcycles, outdoor power equipment, and more.

Transparent is a free online language learning resource featuring:

• Courses, grammar materials, and more in 110 languages (and growing!)

• Extensive English-as-a-second-language (ESL) materials for speakers of over 30 languages

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

• Reading, writing, listening, and speaking activities help you learn the vocabulary and skills needed to communicate effectively in a foreign language

• Age-appropriate courses for young learners with KidSpeak, an immersive, animated language-learning program in 6 languages for grades K-2 (and growing!)

Recollection Wisconsin brings together digital cultural heritage resources from Wisconsin libraries, archives, museums and historical societies and shares them with the world in partnership with the Digital Public Library of America. Hundreds of thousands of photographs, maps, letters, diaries, oral histories, artifacts and other resources from over 200 Wisconsin libraries, museums and other cultural heritage institutions.

Thanks to Recollection Wisconsin, many resources from Stoughton Public Library’s Kvamme Local History Collection are available online, including telephone directories, local histories, vertical files, and collections of newspaper clippings. Explore our library’s collection at: content.mpl.org/digital/collection/SPL

Around the Clock Fa 2022

City Clerks O ice

Badger B ks are now in Stoughton

What is a Badger Book? It is an electronic poll book. They will be used to check in voters, print tally slips, enter registrations, and record absentee voters. These electronic poll books will work the same as paper. For instance, just as a voter would sign the paper poll book to get a tally slip in order to get a ballot, the voter will sign the Badger Book. The election inspector will still look up the voters’ names in the poll book, voters will still sign the poll book, and voters will still get a tally slip (voter number). The only difference is that all of this will be done electronically using the Badger Books. The actual process of voting will not change at all. Voters will still vote on paper ballots and will still place those ballots in the tabulator. The tabulator is not connected to the Badger books in any way.

Ahead of the Elec on https://myvote.wi.gov

Search for My Voter Record

1. If you are registered to vote, you can access the following by entering your full name and date of birth:

2. View a list of elections you have voted in

3. Check your current registration information

4. Update your name and address

5. Request an absentee ballot

6. Find your elected officials

7. Track your absentee ballot

Search for My Polling Place

1. Your assigned polling place is based on where you live. Enter your street address and city to:

2. Find your polling place (where you may vote)

3. View your polling place’s hours and get directions

See what will be on your next ballot

Find your next local election

Learn about absentee voting if you can’t get to your polling place

Search for My Ballot

1. Your ballot and local election information are based on where you live. Enter your street address and city to:

See what will be on your next ballot

Find your next local election

Learn more about voting in person

Am I Registered to Vote?

1. If you have legally changed your name, then you will need to update your voter record by submitting a new voter registration.

2. If you have moved to a new address then you will need to update your voter record by submitting a new voter registration.

To get started, please search for your voter record using your name and date of birth. If you have changed your name you may need to search using your prior name.

Registered Wisconsin voters may request an absentee ballot.

1. If you would like to request an absentee ballot, we will first need to see if you are registered to vote. If you are not registered or your name or address has changed, you will need to register or update your registration before requesting an absentee ballot.

2. If you are in the military, you do not need to be registered to get an absentee ballot, but first we need you to search for your record.

3. Please enter your name and date of birth to get started.

Search for My In-Person Absentee Options

1. Your in-person absentee voting locations are based on where you live and what your municipal clerk’s office offers. Enter your street address and city to:

View your in-person absentee voting site locations and hours of availability

View your clerk’s

The Badger Books are not connected to the internet or to any other outside source. They are connected only to each other by a private network within the polling place.

The Badger Books will be used at City of Stoughton polling places beginning with the August 9, 2022 Primary Election. If you have any questions regarding Badger Book electronic poll books, please contact Clerk Candee Christen or Deputy Clerk Tammy Nimmo at 608-873-6677.

BADGER BOOK RECAP:

WHAT THEY ARE:

• They are poll books. They check in voters and produce a voter number on a slip of paper for each voter.

• They are also used to register voters, and to process absentee ballots.

• When voters check in, they will give their names and addresses to the election inspectors, just as they have in the past. The only difference will be that the inspectors will be looking up voter names electronically, rather than in paper poll books. Voters’ signatures will still be required, but voters will sign their names on an electronic screen using their fingers or a stylus, rather than in the paper poll book.

WHAT THEY ARE NOT:

• They are not voting machines – you can’t cast votes on them. Voting will continue to be done on paper ballots.

• They are not vote tabulators – they don’t count votes. The vote tabulation process will not change.

• They are not connected to the internet or any other outside source. They are connected to a server through a router within each polling place that allows the books to talk to each other. They communicate only with each other.

Around the Clock Fa 2022

General Elec on - Nov. 8th, 2022

Vo ng Op ons

For the Traditional Voter who Enjoys the Excitement of Election Day!

Poll Site Ballots: The City of Stoughton has four polling locations offering ballots to registered voters on Election Day (November 8, 2022). Your polling location is open 13 hours from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. We anticipate Election Day to have a high turn-out and anticipate long lines at the polling locations, however the busier times tend to occur during early morning before work, lunch and just after work! Going in-person to the polls is a great option for the voter who enjoys the excitement of the day and seeing our democracy in action! Photo ID required.

The Ballot that Fits your Timeline (evenings or weekends, you decide)!

Mail Ballots: This option is best for voters who are unable or unwilling to vote at the polls on Election Day, especially those who hate lines and those in poor health or with suppressed immune systems. Upon receiving your written request by paper, email or online through the MyVote Wisconsin web site, https://myvote.wi.gov, and your ballot will be mailed to the address of your choice. Be sure to attach a copy of your Photo ID along with your written request for a ballot as it is required before a ballot can be sent, unless exempt by state law. Absentee ballots are voted at home, witnessed by an adult of your choosing (including a spouse, sibling, adult child or friend). The voted ballot is placed inside an envelope for mail or personal delivery back to the City Clerk. Your voted ballot must be returned to us by no later than 8:00 pm., on Election Day in order to be counted!

The deadline to request a mail ballot for the General Election is Thursday, November 3, 2022, but don’t delay. Plan ahead and make your request in writing, by email or online at: https://myvote.wi.gov/en-us/

In-person Absentee Voting at City Hall – (Available as noted below) In-Person Absentee Ballots: This option is available to voters who are unable or unwilling to vote at their polling location on Election Day and/or those who prefer not to receive an absentee ballot by mail. Absentee ballots are voted at City Hall, witnessed by City Clerk staff and placed inside an envelope for delivery to the polling on Election Day.

Photo ID Required

Location/Hours for In-Person Absentee Voting are listed below:

Location: City Hall Clerk’s Office, 207 S. Forrest St., Stoughton, WI 53589

Dates: Tues. October 25 to Fri. October 28 - Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Date: Sat. October 29th - Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Dates: Mon. October 31 to Thurs. Nov. 3 - Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

City M ngs

The City of Stoughton has 36 board, Commissions and Committees that meet regularly or as needed. Official notice of the meetings can be found on the bulletin board at City Hall. Generally the meetings are also listed on the City Calendar on the City Website. Packet and Agendas can be found at StoughtonCityDocs.com

City Council, Finance Committee, Plan Commission and Committee of the Whole are carried live on Stoughton’s Community Media Channel WSTO TV (See page 5 for ways to watch) as well as posted for on-demand viewing. This is a great way to stay informed on what is happening within the City of Stoughton!

Voter Registra on Frequently Asked Ques ons

If I am registered to vote at my current address, will I need to bring proof of my address to the polls?

No, you don’t. You can verify your voter registration prior to Election Day by checking https://MyVote.wi.gov. Your registration address as listed on the My Vote website will be pre-printed next to your name on the poll book. Poll workers will compare the address you state with the address listed on the poll book.

If I miss voting in an election, does that cancel my voter registration?

No. If you go four years without voting, though, you will be sent a mailing that asks whether you would like to remain on the poll list. At that point, you have the option to request that your registration remain in effect. If you do not respond within 30 days, or if your mailing is returned as undeliverable, your registration will be inactivated.

Doesn’t changing my address with the Post Office automatically update my voter registration?

No, it doesn’t. If you have moved, you will need to take separate action to update your voter registration. A good place to start is by visiting https://MyVote.wi.gov, or visiting the Clerk's Office at City Hall.

Didn’t my voter registration automatically update when I updated my license or ID at the DMV?

Changes to the address your have on file with the DMV do not result in automatic changes to your voter registration. If you have already updated your address with the DMV, though, you will be able to quickly update your voter registration via https://MyVote.wi.gov.

I just need to update my name. Do I really need to complete the entire registration form?

Yes, a new registration form is needed for a name change, even if your address remains the same.

I moved to a new unit within the same building. Do I really need to complete a registration form?

Yes, even a move within the same complex requires a new registration form.

What happens to my previous voter registration?

If you had been registered at another address in Wisconsin, your registration will be transferred to your new municipality when the clerk processes your registration form. If you were registered in another state, a notice will be sent to your previous election administrator, indicating that you have registered to vote in Wisconsin, and that your previous voter registration should be canceled.

I have a family member that I don’t think should be voting anymore. How do I cancel their registration?

You cannot. Only a judge can determine that a person is no longer competent to exercise their right to vote.

If I am registering to vote at the polls and I don’t have Proof of Residence, can I cast a provisional ballot?

No, we cannot issue a provisional ballot in that situation. In order to register to vote at the polls, you must show Proof of Residence.

Can I use my Wisconsin driver license/ID as both Proof of Residence and Voter ID?

Yes, you can, as long as it lists your current address and is not expired. If the address is outdated, you can use the ID as Voter ID, but not as Proof of Residence. If the ID has expired since November 3, 2020, you can use the ID as Voter ID, but not as Proof of Residence. Proof of Residence cannot be expired.

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Voter ID Frequently Asked Ques ons Absent Vo ng Via Mail

The address on my ID is not up-to-date. Do I need to update my address with the DMV before Election Day?

No, that won’t be necessary. The address on your ID is not relevant to proving your identity.

My ID has expired. Does that mean I can’t vote?

If your ID is a Wisconsin driver license, a Wisconsin ID, a U.S. Passport, or a Military ID, you may use it as Voter ID even if it is expired, as long as the expiration date is after November 3, 2020, the date of the last November election.

I have a license from another state. Can I use that as Voter ID?

No, you cannot. A driver license or ID card from another state are not acceptable forms of Voter ID in Wisconsin.

Can I use my Global Entry Card as Voter ID? No, that is not an acceptable form of Voter ID in Wisconsin.

Can I use my faculty ID as Voter ID? No, that is not an acceptable form of Voter ID in Wisconsin.

Can I use my WisCard as Voter ID?

The WisCard is not an acceptable form of Voter ID in Wiscon sin, but you can get a free UW-Madison Voter Identification card from Union South that you can use as Voter ID at the polls.

Can I use my State Employee ID Card as Voter ID?

No, that is not an acceptable form of Voter ID in Wisconsin.

The DMV gave me a paper receipt to use as my ID while I wait for my ID to arrive in the mail. Does that work as Voter ID?

Yes, that is an acceptable form of Voter ID in Wisconsin as long as it is not expired.

I need to get a Voter ID. Where do I start?

Call the Dane County Voter ID Coalition hotline at 608-285-2141. They will walk you through the application process, and can even provide you with a free cab ride to the DMV.

My Wisconsin ID card does not expire. Can I use that as Voter ID?

Yes, the non-expiring Wisconsin ID card issued to senior citizens is an acceptable form of Voter ID.

My Wisconsin ID says “Not for Federal Purposes” and is not REAL ID compliant. Can I use it as Voter ID?

Yes, you may use your Wisconsin ID as Voter ID even if it does not comply with the Federal REAL ID Act.

Voters may submit an absentee request at https://MyVote.wi.gov, or may send the City Clerk’s Office a written request that includes:

•Name

•Address where registered to vote

•Address to which the ballot should be mailed

•Signature

•Copy of Voter ID, if not already on file in Clerk’s Office

Absentee requests may be sent via email to voting@cityofstoughton.com or mailed to: City Clerk's Office

207 S. Forrest St Stoughton, WI 53589

The City Clerk’s Office began mailing ballots for this election on September 21, and issues the ballot after receiving the request as long as the voter is registered and the Clerk’s Office has a copy of their Voter ID on file. Absentee ballots must be received by the Clerk’s Office in time for delivery to the polls on Election Day.

When an absentee ballot is returned to the Clerk’s Office in an insufficient absentee certificate envelope, the Clerk’s Office sends the ballot back to the voter to notify them that the envelope is missing the voter’s signature, the signature of the voter’s witness, or a complete address for the witness. The witness address must include a house number, street name, and municipality. Absentee ballots that are delivered to the Clerk’s Office after Election Day remain sealed and are not counted.

Absentee Delivery

The City Clerk’s Office provides postage on the certificate envelope that is used to return an absentee ballot via mail. Because mail is sent at times from Stoughton to Milwaukee to be sorted, it can take up to a week for the Post Office to deliver a ballot. The Clerk’s Office highly recommends that voters returning their absentee ballot via mail put the ballot in the mail no later than October 31.

Voters may hand-deliver the absentee ballot they received through the mail to the City Clerk’s Office. Voters hand-delivering their absentee ballot received through the mail on Election Day should take their ballot directly to their polling location.

Under the Voting Rights Act, voters needing assistance with the mailing or delivery of their absentee ballot due to a disability are permitted to receive assistance from a person of their choice, as long as the person providing assistance is not the voter's employer, agent of the voter's employer, or officer or agent of the voter's union. Otherwise, voters are required to mail or deliver their own absentee ballot.

Around the Clock Fa 2022

2023 Dog License Available Late December

NEW DOG LICENSE PROCESS

State Statutes and the City of Stoughton Ordinances require all dogs five (5) months of age or older, to be vaccinated for rabies and licensed. Licenses are valid as of January 1st and expire on December 31st of each year and need to be purchased annually. The City of Stoughton will soon be offering an online option to apply and pay for their dog license directly on the City website.

Dog owners who need to purchase a dog license simply go to dogs.cityofstoughton.com to submit an application. All applications must include a current copy of the rabies certificate, which can be easily uploaded into the owner’s account. After the application is reviewed by City staff and payment has been made, the dog license(s) are mailed to the owner.

For those who are unable to obtain a license online, the City also offers mail in, drop off, or in person options. A dog license application can be found on our website or it can be picked up at City Hall. Once the application is complete you can mail it or bring it to City Hall, or place it in the City Hall secure dropbox. All applications need to include payment and a current copy of the rabies certificate, an invoice or receipt is not as proof of a rabies vaccine.

Fees:

• Neutered or spayed dogs - $17.00

• Unaltered dogs- $21.00.

• A service fee of $1.50 will be added to all applications regardless of how they are submitted.

• $5.00 late fee will be assessed to each dog not renewed prior to April 1st each year. (Per Statutes)

• Dogs that are too young to be vaccinated by April 1st are exempt from this late fee.

When should you get a license?

New to the City/New Dog

• Within 30 days of obtaining your dog OR

• Within 30 days of moving into the city OR

• When the dog turns 5 months old and has received a rabies vaccination

Licensing and Payment Options

1. Online via Point and Pay: Click Here to Apply and Pay Online. Obtain your dog license online 24 hours a day. You will need the following items to obtain your dog license:

• Current Rabies Vaccination Certificate (not an invoice/receipt). A scan or clear photograph is acceptable to upload.

• Payment Online via card/echeck or you may elect to mail in/drop off payment at the City Hall.

The estimated turnaround time is immediate if paying online. You will be emailed a receipt that will provide proof of licensure/dog park access. Your documentation and dog license tag(s) will be mailed to you within 3 to 5 business days.

2. In-Person: Obtain your dog license in person at Stoughton City Hall during normal operation hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You will need the following items to obtain your dog license:

• Current Rabies Vaccination Certificate (not an invoice/receipt)

• Payment

3. Via Mail: For your convenience, you may obtain your license via mail with the attached dog license application (PDF). You will need to mail the following items to the City of Stoughton to obtain your dog license:

• Current Rabies Vaccination Certificate (not an invoice/ receipt)

• Dog License Application (PDF).

• Check payable to the City of Stoughton for the correct amount Your documentation and dog license tag will be mailed back to you.