Minutes 6-07-11 SP
JOINT WORKSHOP
BELOIT AND JANESVILLE CITY COUNCILS APPROVED 6/27/11
JUNE 7, 2011
VOL. 62
NO. 6
The joint workshop of the Beloit and Janesville City Councils was held at the Beloit Public Library
on June 7, 2011. The meeting was called to order by Council Presidents Brunner and Leavy at
6:34 PM.
Present: Council President Brunner, Councilmembers Dongarra-Adams, Liebert, McDonald,
Rashkin, Steeber, and Voskuil. All members of the Beloit City Council except Councilmember
Van De Bogart were present.
Discussion of collaboration/shared service history between Beloit and Janesville
City Managers Arft and Levitt provided information on collaborative services between the cities
including: Emergency Communication Services, Collaborative decision on upgrade to digital
narrow band communications, Joint applications for Housing/Neighborhood Development grants
(provided by Jennifer Petruzzello), and Collaboration on planning for the delivery of animal
control services in Rock County.
Discussion regarding other possible collaborative efforts to share services, facilities or
operations on items not specifically listed on the agenda
After discussion of various issues, the Councils requested that the Administrations explore
collaborative efforts in the following areas: joint purchasing, public safety staffing of special
teams, training and equipment, sharing public works specialty equipment, sharing technology,
and sharing professional services. They asked that Department Heads meet and discuss
feasible collaborative efforts in their respective categories. In addition, they should compile a
list of services provided by both communities, existing equipment, planned equipment purchases,
and any specialty services and equipment.
Discussion on Neighborhood Preservation/Blight Elimination programs and
services
City Manager Arft provided information on their neighborhood preservation program. They have
established a policy to purchase all City of Beloit property that is sold on the Rock County
Treasurer’s tax lien sale to stabilize their neighborhoods.
There being no further business, Councils adjourned at 7:53 PM. These minutes are not official
until approved by the City Council.
Jean Ann Wulf
Janesville City Clerk-Treasurer