TheTower Times

City of Stoughton Issue 1, Spring 2011

budgeTing foR ouTComeS: a new way To look aT budgeTing

Budgeting for outcomes is a form of priority based budgeting where spending is linked to overall community results.

Instead of the traditional approach to budgeting that begins with last year’s

budget and is focused on expenditures, the starting point for the budget process becomes setting priorities

and establishing the amount of revenue available for achieving those priorities. Effi ciencies and outcomes become the

focus. Departments prepare budgets based on programs or services provided. Those services are then ranked based on priorities set by the council and the community.

1. The process starts with education and strategic planning. Overall big picture priorities are set by the council.

2. The department heads and staff quantify the services provided. Individual services are defi ned and the costs of those services are identifi ed. Benchmarks are defi ned.

3. Services are put into a matrix that identifi es the cost inputs, services, and expected outcomes.

4. Services are ranked by priority. A table is prepared that shows the service, ranking, outcome and cost.

5. Decision tables are prepared that show where the ‘Line” is drawn. (Where revenue meets expenses). These are prepared for levy options (ie 3%, 2%, 0%, -2%).

6. Department heads see where services fall in the funded or not funded category.

7. Department’s are sent back to fi nd effi ciencies to fi t more programs into the funded category.

8. Council decides the funding/service level of the budget.

9. Program budgets are broken down into line item budgets for budget approval.

10. Performance and benchmark reviews/reports/communication to public

Benefi ts of BFO are:

• Financial Resiliency - Meeting budget targets. Strategic approach to cost reductions.

• Clarity of Outcomes - Opening up the budget process and fi nancial information to the entire organization in order to focus all employees on assisting with the fi nancial challenges

• Internal Engagement - Training employees to identify outcomes, develop performance measures, and prioritize services.

• Cross-Departmental Cooperation - changing the organizational culture to one of service collaboration in order to meet priorities.

The City has a new website for Budgeting for Outcomes.

Follow our progress at www.StoughtonBFO.com

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Town of RuTland & CiTy of SToughTon CompuTeR, eleCTRoniC, and applianCe ReCyCling evenTResource Solutions will again be in Stoughton collecting computers, electronics, and ap-pliances for recycling on Saturday, June 4, 2011. Residents of Stoughton, Rutland, and sur-rounding communities may bring these items to Stoughton Lumber, located at 3188 Deer Point Drive in Stoughton, from 8am-noon.

**SPECIAL EVENT PRICING**No Charge for These Items: CRT Monitors, Computer Mice, CPU’s, Laptops, Keyboards, Computer Cords, Circuit Boards, Flat Screen Computer Monitors (LCD), UPS, Power Strips, Scanners, Printer Cables, Printers, Copiers, Telephones, Cell Phones, Fax Machines, VCR’s, DVD Players, Stereo Equipment, Remote Controls, Calculators, Lead Acid Car Batteries, Re-chargeable batteries from laptops, cell phones, and power tools

Recycling Fee for These Items:

Televisions - $10/$20 each Small to Mid-Size Televisions (29” and under) - $10 each Large Televisions (30” and over) - $20 each

Appliances - $5 each Microwaves, Stoves, Washers, Dryers, Water Heaters, Furnaces, Lawn Mowers (oil must be drained and tires must be removed)

Freon-containing Appliances - $10 each Air Conditioners, Dehumidifiers

Fluorescent Light Bulbs: 4’ and 8’ - $1 each

**Please call Resource Solutions for a price quote if you don’t see your item listed**

Resource Solutions is ISO 14001:2004 Certified and is also an E-Cycle Wisconsin registered collector and recycler. At Resource Solutions, all computers and electronics accepted for recycling will be recycled for their base metals, glass, and plastics.

For more information, please call Resource Solutions at (608) 244-5451 or visit www.recyclethatstuff.com.

awaRd ReCipienTS foR 2011Congratulations to the recipients for the 2011 Business Person of the Year, Friend of Youth, and Volunteer(s) of the Year awards.

Business Person of the Year:Terrence Brenny President/CEO Stoughton Hospital

Friend of Youth Award:Friends of the Stoughton Area Youth Center Board, and the Construction Committee

Volunteer(s) of the Year:there were four recipients this year: Cheryl Learn Giovanna Lazzaro Friends of the Stoughton Area Youth Center City of Stoughton Food Pantry Volunteers

24 Hour Emergency Service

Science Diet Pet Food

Office hours by appointment

Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon

1621 E. Main St., Stoughton 873-8112 U

N15

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1060 West Main Street - Stoughton

873-7737Locally Owned and Operated

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$18.992 Medium Pizzas2 Toppings Each

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Just ask for the Yellow Pages Special. Prices subject to change.No coupon needed, not valid with other coupons or speical offers.

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Family-Friendly Environment

Come Join Us for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Hours: Monday-Saturday 5 am - 8 pm

Sunday 5 am - 2 pm

355 E. Main Street Stoughton, WI (608) 873-6717

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• Proudly serving the Stoughton Area Since 1962• Family Owned and Operated• Stop In During Happy Hour Fridays 3-5pm

1/2 Price Single Stem Flowers

Stoughton Floral168 E. Main Street, Stoughton, WI

Flower Phone: 873-6173 or 866-595-6800Mon.-Fri. 8am to 5:30pm; Sat. 8am to 3pm

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SToughTon aRea mediCaTion diSpoSal and ShaRpS ColleCTion evenT

Saturday, April 30, 2011, 9:00 am - noon Drive Through Service Stoughton Fire Department (enter from Main Street) • Bring all medications in their original containers (if possible) - cross off your name

or personal information with a black marker (not the name of the medication)

• Sharps must be dropped off in a registered sharps container or thick plastic laundry detergent bottle

• The Lions/Lioness will also be collecting used eye glasses and hearing aids

For additional information please call Stoughton City Hall (608) 873-6677

Sponsored by the Stoughton Wellness Coalition

The Stoughton Wellness Coalition was formed in 2006, through collaborative efforts of Stoughton Hospital, the Stoughton School District and the City of Stoughton. The coalition promotes a collaborative approach to personal and community wellness through health promotion, educational programming and service to the Stoughton Area Community.

gaRage Sale infoRmaTionGarage sale signs may be placed in the park row, in front of the residence where the sale is being held, for a period not to exceed three days and no more than three times in a calendar year. Signs may also be placed in the park rows at various intersections for the days of the sale; such signs shall not have a height greater than 2 1/2 feet from grade. Garage sale signs shall not exceed four square feet in area, two feet in height and two feet in width.

Garage sale signs are not to be attached to utility poles, trees, traffic regulatory structu res or fences and shall not obstruct vision for vehicular traffic.

No more than 3 sales are allowed per year. A sale of up to 3 consecutive days in length shall be considered one time.

If you have any questions regarding garage sale signs please call the City Zoning Adminis-trator at 608-646-0421.

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planning & developmenT infoRmaTionThe following information can be found at this website: www.cityofstoughton.com/planning

Use The Applications & Information Link For: • Permit Fee Schedule • Building/Zoning Permit Application • Commercial Buildings Information • Stormwater & Erosion Control Application • Fire Sprinkler/Alarm System Permit Application • Annual Average Daily Traffi c Maps For Stoughton • Residential Building Trends 1986 - 2009 • Fencing Information • Detached Garage & Accessory Structure Information • Deck Information • Swimming Pool & Antenna Information • Driveway & Sidewalk Information and Application • Sign Permit Application • Zero Lot Line Information • Variance Information and Request Form • Administrative Appeal Information and Request Form • Conditional Use Application • Rezoning Procedure and Application

There Are Links To The Following Using The Above Website: • Zoning Map • Comprehensive Plan • Extraterritorial Jurisdictional Boundary Map

Locating Lot Stakes/Lines: • Typically, there is metal, 1-inch solid stakes buried at the corners of each lot. A

metal detector may be used to help locate the stakes. • A plat map which shows the dimensions of a property may be obtained from

Planning & Development staff at City Hall, 381 E. Main Street. • City employees do not locate lot stakes. If lot stakes cannot be found, a property

owner may hire a surveyor to locate or restake them. • State law requires that lot stakes are not removed. However, that does not mean the

stakes were not removed inadvertently by someone. Some historic areas initially had lot markers made of wood.

Property information: the following information can be found at this web-site using the pub-lic access link: http://accessdane.co.dane.wi.us. Current Property Owner And Address; Prop-erty Address; Parcel Number; Plat Name; Lot Number; Legal Description; Property Acres; Land Value; Improved Value; Assessed Value; Fair Market Value; Tax Information; A Map Showing Where The Property Is Located And A List Of Recorded Documents Pertaining To The Property.Property/Assessment information: the following property information may be found at this web-site: http://www.accurateassessor.com Site Data, Dwelling Data, Assessed Value, And Parcel Number.Diggers Hotline: Always call Diggers Hotline before digging at: 1-800-242-8511. There is no charge to you for this service.Any Questions? Please call the Zoning Administrator at 608-646-0421.

RiveR and TRailS TaSk foRCeMark your calendars for Saturday, April 23, 2011 for our annual trail clean up. This is in conjunction with Earth Day and all volunteers are welcomed. Meet at the Pedestrian Bridge, north of the RR Bridge at 9:00 a.m. rain or shine. Please bring gloves and your energy for improving our parks and trails. Any questions??? call 873-6746.Other updates: Our biggest project, a pedestrian bridge across the Yahara River from Mandt Park to 8th street, has been put on hold due to lack of funding. We will re-visit this great trail connecting project when grants become available again.This spring, the River and Trail Task Force will provide the funding for materials used for an-other section of trail. This new link will go from 4th St. through Riverside Park. The Street and Parks Department will provide the labor. The next step will be an accessible fi shing pier along Riverside Dr. The cost will be about $9,000. All donations are welcomed. Please consider helping with any amount. Checks should be made to: River and Trails Task Force c/o City of Stoughton and mailed to Parks and Recreation Department, 381 E. Main St., Stoughton.Once again, thank you for all the past and present day support. See you on April 23rd.

Nancy Hagen, Chair

www.edwardjones.comMember SIPCThomas M. Fendrick

Financial Advisor

2368 Jackson St. Stoughton, WI 53589 (608) 873-8502

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Stoughton’s Only Locally Owned Pharmacy!

Competitive Prices & Free Delivery(within the city limits & a small fee outside city limits)

Digital Photo Processing Available

100 E. Main Street in Stoughton

873-3244 • www.mcglynnrx.comMonday-Friday 8 am-6 pm, Saturday 8 am-5 pm, Sunday 8 am-noon

Our People Make the Difference

Lift Chairs!FREE Delivery! Within city limits. Small fee outside.

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holiday SChedule 2011New Year’s DaySaturday, January 1, 2011All collections will remain the same.

Memorial DayMonday, May 30, 2011All collections will be delayed by one day.

Independence DayMonday, July 4, 2011All collections will be delayed by one day.

Labor DayMonday, September 5, 2011All collections will be delayed by one day.

Thanksgiving DayThursday, November 24, 2011. The Monday through Wednesday collections will remain unchanged. The regular Thursday collections will be on Friday, November 25 and Friday collections on Saturday, November 26.

Christmas DaySunday, December 25, 2011In observation of the Holiday being recognized on Monday, December 26, 2011; All collections will be delayed by one day.

Sunday, January 1, 2012In observation of the Holiday being recognized on Monday, January 2, 2012; All collections will be delayed by one day.

The holiday collections may be at an earlier time of day than normal. Please be sure to put your refuse and recycling out the night before your scheduled collection day.

Please contact Johns Disposal with any questions.Phone: (262) 4734700 • Toll Free: (888) 473-4701

Fax: (262) 473-6775www.johnsdisposal.com • offi ce@johnsdisposal.com

annual boaRd of ReviewThe Annual Board of Review of the City of Stoughton will be held in the Council Chambers of the Public Safety Building, 321 S. Fourth St., on Mon-day, May 9, 2011 at 10:00 AM.

The Board of Review is a quasi-ju-dicial hearing process to appeal the assessed value of your property. The judicial process presumes the Asses-sor correct and requires the property owner to prove the Assessor is not correct under the law. To learn more about property assessment values and the Board of Review process, visit the following web site link resources.

This is a Guide for Homeowners as to the Board of Review Process:http://www.revenue.wi.gov/pubs/slf/pb055.pdf

This is a Guide for Homeowners as to how properties are valued:http://www.revenue.wi.gov/pubs/slf/pb060.pdf

Important Notice: a written objection on the proper form must be properly fi led with the Clerk of the Board of Review at least 48 hours prior to their fi rst meeting.

Forms and information for property owners may be found by visiting the web site link resources provided below.

Objection Form for Real Estate Propertyhttp://www.revenue.wi.gov/forms/govtvc/pa-115a.pdf

Objection Form for Personal Property (Business)http://www.revenue.wi.gov/forms/govtvc/pa-115b.pdf

Clerk of the Board of ReviewKelly Michaels, City Clerk/Personnel Director

Phone: (608) 873-6677

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STReeT depaRTmenTQueSTionS abouT The opeRaTion of The STReeT depaRTmenT?Try Our Web Page www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/streets/ Our web site answers many frequently asked questions, weekly updates of day to day operations, policies and ordinances and links to Public Works Committee agendas and minutes. Any questions, please call 873-6303.

2011 SCheduled Road woRk

2011 Road Construction ProjectE. Main Street to Amundson Parkway

The following streets are scheduled to be pulverized and re-paved:Johnson St. (N. Page St. to Greig Trail), Greig Trail (Johnson St. to Termini), Moe Ct. (John-son St. to End), Taft St. (N. Prairie St. to 125’ East), West St. (Johnson St. to N. Van Buren St.) and Johnson St. (West St. to Roby Rd.).

Streets receiving Seal Coating:N Page St. (Taft St. to W Main St.), Forton St. (N Page St. to N Division St.), N Division St. (Forton St. to E Washington St.), W Washington St. (N Division St. to Water St.), Water St. (W Washington St. to W Jefferson St.), Jefferson St. (Water St. to S Fourth St.), S Lynn St. (E Main St. to Academy St.), S Academy St. (E Main St. to E South St.), S Franklin St. (E Main St. to E South St.), Amundson Pkwy. (E Main St. to Ridge St.), Ridge St. (Amundson Pkwy. to N Academy St.), N Academy St. (Ridge St. to Giles St.), N Franklin St. (E Main St. to Ridge St.) and Chalet Dr. (E Main St. to Vernon Rd.).

Streets receiving Crack Sealing:Riverside Dr. (S Page St. to S Fourth St.), S Page St. (W Milwaukee St. to Oak St.), Oak St. (S Page St. to S Monroe St.), S Madison St. (Oak St. to W South St.), W Milwaukee St. (S Page St. to Stoughton Ave.), W Jefferson St. (S Monroe St. to S Harrison St.), S Prairie St. (W Main St. to W Jefferson St.), S Harrison St. ( W Main St. to W South St.), Pine St. (Hwy 51-138 to W South St.), W Milwaukee St. (Vea Ct. to Hoel Ave.), Valley View (W Milwaukee St. to Hilldale St.), Harvest Lane (Valley View to W Milwaukee St.) and W Main St. (Pleasant View to King St.).

SpRing CuRbSide leaf ColleCTionDepending on the weather, this normally occurs in mid-April.

yaRd waSTe SiTe

Site is at the Street Department - 515 S. Fourth StreetAvailability: April 2nd thru November 22nd

Normal Hours of Operation: Tues. & Thur.: 1:00 PM-7: 00 PM Sat.: 9:00 AM-5: 00 PM

Cost: $20 and $5 (2nd sticker)

Site may close early due to inclement weather or darkness

Stickers must be permanently affixed to the lower left-hand corner of the front windshield of the vehicle. Please remove past years’ stickers from your windshield. Stickers may also be pur-chased at the Street Department Office during normal business hours.

bRuSh piCkupCONTRACTOR’S HIRED TO DO TREE REMOVAL OR MAINTENANCE ON PRIVATE PROP-ERTY ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DISPOSAL OF THE BRUSH FROM THE WORK SITE. PLEASE NOTE THAT CONTRACTOR BRUSH WILL NOT BE PICKED UP BY THE CITY.

Pick-up of properly sized brush (maximum diameter 4”) is on the first Monday of each month April through the first week of November.

• Plan your trimming around the scheduled pickup to eliminate having brush out for long periods.

• Please have your brush at the curb by 7:00 a.m. on the aforementioned Mondays.

• Place butt (cut end) facing the curb - if park row is narrow or branches longer, place in the direction the equipment is traveling.

• Root balls will not be picked up and should be disposed of at the Madison Landfill Site (call 267-1502 for information).

• All brush must be placed in the park row, NOT IN THE STREET.

• Once crews have gone through an area no other pick up will be done until the next scheduled pick up.

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STReeT depaRTmenT – ConTinued gRaSS ClippingSWhen mowing your lawn, make sure to keep the grass clippings on your property and do not blow or sweep clippings from the drive-way and sidewalks into the street. There is a city ordinance prohibiting yard waste in the street which will be strictly enforced.

{Sec. 50-5. Offenses against public peace, or-der and other public interests}

(h) Littering prohibited.

(1) No person shall throw any glass, gar-bage, rubbish, waste, slop, dirty water, brush, yard waste, dirt, rocky materials or noxious liquid or other litter or unwholesome substance upon the streets, alleys, highways, public parks or other property of the city of upon any private property not owned by him or upon the surface of any body of water within the city.

This violation is subject to fi nes from $50 to $1,000.

paRk Row TReeSIt is important to plant the proper tree in the park row to assure a long-lived and healthy tree. Also the size of the tree is important to insure that it will not have to be trimmed due to power lines.

• Permits are required to plant or remove park row trees. There are no charges for these permits however; we need this information in order to keep our Tree Inventory up to date.

• These permits may be obtained at the Street Department or online at www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/streets/TreeCommission

Lists of tree specifi cations are also available or you may view these on the web site.

Remember to call Diggers Locate at 811 or 1-800-242-8511 or email them at diggershotline.com prior to planting.

STReeT CloSing peRmiTSPublic streets may be closed for the use of private citizens and non-profi t organizations provided said individual organization applies for a Street Closing Permit and the completed application is submitted to Street Superintendent, Karl Manthe for approval.

aRboR day CelebRaTion foR 2011The Tree Commission will be celebrating Arbor Day this year by having work days to clean up the River Trail of invasive species. On Saturday, April 23rd at 9:00 AM at the pedestrian bridge the Com-mission will be joining the River and Trails Task Force for a community clean up effort.

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Flavor of the Day Hotline: (608) 873-6643

Hwy. 51, Stoughton (608) 873-6635

It won’t sizzle until you say so.

At Culver’s, we don’t make your meal until you order it. We use fresh, never frozen, lean ground chuck blend, served up the way you like it. And, our frozen custard is made fresh all day long. So, if you crave good food made just for you, try Culver’s.

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6 The Tower Times

(608) 873-3379 • www.stoughtonutilities.com

SToughTon uTiliTieS CommiTmenT To CommuniTyFor many Stoughton families, winter can be a financially challenging time as they struggle to pay their monthly heat-ing and electric bills. Simply by being a Stoughton Utilities electric customer, you help these families by making a small monthly contribution of $1.33 to the Stoughton Utilities Commitment to Community Program. Although it may seem insignificant on your monthly statement, the combined total received from all customers has a significant positive impact for hundreds of Stoughton families.

• In 2009, $65,971 was collected from Stoughton Utilities customers.

- $44,992 was spent on bill payment assistance for Stoughton families.

- $14,612 was spent on low-income weatherization for Stoughton homes.

• In 2010, $61,440 was collected from Stoughton Utilities customers.

- $61,654 was spent on bill payment assistance for Stoughton families.

• During the 2009/10 heating season, 413 Stoughton households were provided with assistance totaling $51,488 with an average benefit of $125.

• Through February 24, for the 2010/11 heating season, 318 Stoughton households have been provided with assistance totaling $49,458 with an average benefit of $155. The minimum benefit was $100.

Stoughton Utilities customers with household incomes at or below 60% of the Wisconsin state median income may be eligible for electric payment assistance and basic weather-ization services.

Electric payment assistance is a one-time benefit payment during the heating season (October 1-May 15) that is not intended to cover the entire cost of the seasonal electric costs, but rather to provide a little extra assistance.

If you are aware of a family in need of financial assistance for their energy bills or basic weatherization services, you can encourage them to apply for Commitment to Community funds by contacting Energy Services, Inc. at (608) 283-7650. For more information, you can also contact Stoughton Utili-ties at (608) 873-3379 or at www.stoughtonutilities.com.

eneRgy aSSiSTanCe fundS STill availableWisconsin’s Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) provides assistance with heating costs, electric costs, and energy crisis situations. The program is operated by lo-cal social and human services and is available to income-qualified households. Energy assistance is a one-time pay-ment each heating season (October 1 through May 15). The amount of the assistance benefit varies according to house-hold size, income level and household heating costs. For information on how to apply for energy assistance, call toll-free (866) 432-8947.

CReaTe a beTTeR fuTuRe…As a customer of Stoughton Utilities, you can purchase re-newable energy blocks to offset a part or all of your electri-cal usage through our Renewable Energy Program. Renew-able energy is generated from clean, green energy sources such as wind, biogas, and the sun, and is purchased in 300 kilowatt-hour (kWh) blocks; each block costs $3. Purchasing one block of renewable energy each month for one year has the equivalent impact on the environment as not driving a car for six months and avoids emitting over three tons of carbon dioxide.In Stoughton, 417 residential customers purchase 1,052 blocks of renewable energy each month. That’s the equivalent of 315,600 kWh, enough to power 526 average-sized homes.Stoughton was recently recognized by the National Renew-able Energy Laboratory (NREL) for its participation in our Renewable Energy Program. Stoughton Utilities placed ninth in the nation for its 5.2% customer participation rate.

woRk Safely wiTh diggeR’S hoTlineWith the beautiful spring weather approaching, your list of outside work may be starting to grow - build a deck, plant some trees, install a gym set for the children, or more. If your list includes any digging, state law (Wisconsin Statute 182.0175) requires you to notify Diggers Hotline. Diggers Hotline is a statewide notification system developed to provide excavators and the general public with the ability to inform multiple owners of underground facilities of intend-ed non-emergency excavation via a single telephone call. You may contact Diggers Hotline at 811 from any phone year round. You must, however, allow three working days (excluding weekends and holidays) notice for the location of the underground facilities prior to digging. Diggers Hotline will process three types of calls: 1) excava-tion 2) planning of excavation and 3) safe working clearance information for overhead lines. The call center will ask for an address or location information. Specific marking instructions also will need to be provided. Once the locate is completed, you have ten calendar days to begin your excavation work before you must call to have the underground facilities relocated.Please note that there are no charges to individual customers for this service. For more information on Wisconsin’s Dig-ger’s Hotline program, please visit www.diggershotline.com

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

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

• 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 to 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.

aRe you having TRouble paying youR uTiliTy bill?For some customers, including seniors on fixed incomes, energy expenses can be a financial burden. In fact, there are those right here in our community who cannot afford the energy to meet their basic needs.

For those who cannot afford such an expense, this can lead to difficult decisions about how to allocate their limited re-sources. Our local Energy Assistance Program is designed to help income-qualifying households cover their energy costs and reduce the financial burden that they face. If you be-lieve you or someone you know may qualify, we encourage you to establish your income eligibility through the feder-ally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

To learn more about the LIHEAP application process, con-tact Dane County Human Services at (608) 242-6200. If ap-proved for LIHEAP, you will receive more information about your eligibility for our Energy Assistance Program at that time.

Our Energy Assistance Program is funded with the portion of Commitment to Community dollars specifically set aside for income-qualifying individuals and families.

Service Disconnections Resume April 15

Stoughton Utilities is advising electric customers who are behind on their bills or customer deposits to contact a cus-tomer service representative to make payment arrange-ments to avoid service disconnection.

The Winter Emergency Period, often referred to as the mor-atorium on residential service disconnection, ends April 15. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin establishes the moratorium - from October to April - to protect custom-ers from disconnection during harsh Wisconsin winters. On April 15, utilities statewide may begin to disconnect service to customers who are past due on payment of their electric bills for any period of time.

To prevent disconnection, we are urging our customers to contact us now to make payment arrangements for your past-due charges and/or customer deposits.

Several factors are used when we consider granting a De-ferred Payment Agreement for a customer. Some of the fac-tors include:

• Compliance with prior payment arrangements

• The size of your overdue bill

• How long your bill has been overdue

• Payment history

• Your ability to pay

• Reasons your bill is overdue

Customers are required to appear in person at our office to establish a Deferred Payment Agreement. Please note that you will be required to pay a down payment of up to 50% when entering into a Deferred Payment Agreement.

be pRepaRed foR poweR ouTageSSpring and summer in Wisconsin can bring very unpredict-able weather, and even a small storm can result in a large power outage. Once the lights go off it’s too late to prepare for a power outage, so don’t get caught searching in the dark for a flashlight or candles.

Hanson ElectronicsStoughtons Home For

2384 Jackson Street/Hwy 51 Stoughton, WI • 877-9548

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mediCal eQuipmenTIf you or a family member relies on medical equipment powered by electricity, create an emergency plan. We can-not assure any customer that a storm or equipment prob-lem will not interrupt power. Remember: Keep emergency numbers near medical equipment and regularly test the equipment’s back-up power sources.

Sump pumpS & CoRdleSS phoneSYour sump pump runs on electricity, so consider a battery back-up. Choose one that will switch on automatically if an outage occurs. Your cordless phone will not work during a power outage; consider a spare plug-in telephone, or keep your cell phone handy for emergency situations.

geneRaToRSTest your generator every 30 days to make certain that it is in good operating condition. Always follow manufacturer’s di-rections for safe operation. If back-feeding your generator into your home’s electrical system, ALWAYS use a transfer switch or disconnect your main breaker switch. Failure to do so could injure or kill our lineman working to restore our system, or bystanders who come into contact with wires on the ground.

aSSemble an emeRgenCy kiTPrepare one today by gathering a few basic emergency sup-plies and placing them in an emergency kit that’s easy to locate in the dark. We suggest including these items:

• Working Flashlights

• Battery-Operated Radio for news & weather reports

• Batteries for Flashlights & Radio

• Candles & Matches

• Blankets

• Bottled Water (City customers will still have water to their faucets, rural customers may not)

• Canned or Dried Food

• A Corded Telephone (cordless phones don’t work when power is out.)

Other Things to Keep in Mind

• Remember that electric garage door openers will not function during a power outage. Place your unit on “manual” if possible.

• Electric sump pumps and pumps used for rural customer’s wells also will not work during a power outage.

• Protect electrical equipment from possible surges when power is restored. Use surge suppression devices to protect sensitive equipment such as computers, fax machines, answering machines, televisions, stereos and major appliances - or simply unplug them.

• A power outage may affect the operation of security and alarm systems.

• Protect food from spoiling by keeping freezer and refrigerator doors closed as much as possible. Food will stay frozen up to 48 hours if the door is not opened frequently.

• Blinds and curtains will help shield against the heat of the sun, so while the air-conditioning is off you should keep your windows covered.

• If you leave your home or business, switch on a light that can be seen from the street. Our crews often “spot check” to ensure all customers have their electricity back on.

• For the safety of everyone, stay clear of crews, vehicles and equipment in the area.

• After the power is restored, you can safely reconnect appliances and equipment, and reset devices that operate on timers.

• Stoughton Utilities’ drinking water and wastewater treatment processes will be active during an outage.

CReaTe a family planParents: make sure your children know what to do if an out-age happens while they are home alone or with a caretaker.

pRoJeCT RoundupStoughton Utilities customers can opt to enroll in the voluntary roundUP program. In this program, your utility bill will “round up” to the next highest dollar amount. This small tax-deduct-ible contribution may seem like only pennies a month, but the dollars add up quickly when many customers participate. A summary of the tax-deductible contribution for the past year will be mailed separate from your utility bill each January.

The average contribution per program participant is just $6.00 per year, however an estimated $2,500 will be raised each year to be awarded by the Stoughton Utilities Committee twice annually to local community service organizations.

If you choose to participate, Stoughton Utilities will round up your monthly utility bills to the next dollar. For example, if your bill is $41.70, it would be “rounded up” to $42. Your maximum contribution per year could be $11.88, but gen-erally will be less than that, averaging $6 per year. Your contribution is tax deductible and the funds are adminis-tered by the Stoughton Utilities Committee, and overseen by the Stoughton City Council. By joining this program you are continuing the “neighbor helping neighbor” concept that founded Stoughton Utilities years ago. If you decide to participate in this program, thank you.To qualify for funding, projects must generally be related to community service, economic development, education and youth, environment, emergency energy assistance or disaster relief. Applicants for scholarship funding must be planning to attend an accredited post-secondary educational institution in pursuit of their initial post-secondary degree. These institu-tions could include technical colleges, universities or colleges. Although there are many worthy charitable and educational projects and community needs in our local area, the limited availability of funds requires us to establish funding priority categories as follows: • Community Service

• Economic Development

• Education and Youth

• Environment

• Emergency Energy Assistance

• Disaster Relief

Contributions will be geographically within the area served by Stoughton Utilities and will include the City of Stough-ton and the Townships of Dunn, Dunkirk, Pleasant Springs, Porter, and Rutland. Organizations which provide programs and benefi ts to people who live in this geographic area are eligible for funding consideration, even though the organi-zation is located elsewhere.If you are a customer and would like to sign up to partici-pate in the program, or if you’re a non-profi t organization that could benefi t from a donation from Stoughton Utilities’ RoundUP program, please contact us at (608) 873-3379 or online at www.stoughtonutilities.com.

puT a STop - To The dRop“More than 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted in U.S. homes each year from easy-to-fi x leaks.” Such things as leaky toilets and faucets could waste up to 10,000 gallons of water a year in the average household. This is equal to enough water to wash nearly 10 months’ worth of laundry. The most common leaks in the home include worn toilet fl appers, dripping faucets, and leaking showerheads. In all of these cases they are easily corrected. Knowing how to detect if you have a water leak or where the water leak may be occurring is the fi rst step. The best way to check for water leaks is to watch your water usage on your monthly utility bill during the winter months. Dur-ing the winter, the consumption in a household would be usage of the individuals living there due to no outdoor wa-

tering or fi lling of pools, etc. On average an individual will use 2,000 gallons of water per month. It is likely that if a family of four has a leak problem if the water usage exceeds 12,000 gallons per month during the winter months. A good way to check if you have a leaking toilet is to place a drop of food coloring in the toilet tank. If the color shows up in the bowl within 15 minutes without fl ushing, there is a leak in your toilet. Make sure that you fl ush immediately after this experiment to avoid any staining of the tank.

“Ten percent of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day.” It is important to detect if you may have a water leak in your home and repair them as soon as possi-ble. This not only benefi ts the environment by saving water, it benefi ts your wallet by saving you money. For more ways to detect and fi x water leaks in your home, please visit our website at www.savings.stoughtonutilities.com.

how Can i ReduCe my SToughTon uTiliTy bill ThRough TheSe Tough eConomiC TimeS? • Replace standard incandescent light bulbs with

compact fl uorescent light (CFL) bulbs. CFL bulbs use 75% less energy than a standard incandescent bulb.

• Turn off lights and appliances in unoccupied spaces.

• Set your air condition thermostat to 78 degrees.

• Have window treatments that can block out the sun from entering on the South and West side of your home during the air conditioning season.

• A second refrigerators not stock can cost and additional $100 per year. Refrigerators located in a garage or out building can add several dollars annually to your bill.

• Remove all battery charging devices when not in is. These devices still consume energy even though they are not plugged into the device being charged.

• Power supply strips should be used when practical on all TV’s and computers. Power should be disconnect to these devices when not in use. Simply turning off the equipment doesn’t prevent the appliance from consuming energy.

• Make sure you maintain your air conditioners and refrigerators and freezers as recommended by the manufactures. Not following simple house keep on appliances can increase monthly electrical usages.

• Place a pitcher of water in the refrigerator for drinking water.

• Replace shower heads and faucets with low fl ow aerators.

• Replace seals on leaking toilets.

• Install a rain barrel to collect rainwater you can use on your outdoor plants.

• Reducing your monthly water usage will reduce your monthly sewer charge.

For additional conservation ideas, please visit our website at www.stoughtonutilties.com.

3097 Sunnyside St., Stoughton (608) 205-9300

springersonthelake.com

“Great waterfront dining, drinks & fun!”Nightly Specials

Sunday Breakfast

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oveR 90 lunCheonFriday, April 15, 12:00 PMJoin us in honoring those in the community who are over 90 years old and living independently. No matter what your age, this is an event you are sure to enjoy! Live music by the Stough-ton High School Orchestra. Make reservations by noon April 14.

CRaving ThaT fiRST bRaT of The SeaSon?Enjoy it with us at our BRAT FEST! Friday, April 29, 11:00 AM-1:00 PMBrats will be for sale at the Senior Center, as drive through or for delivery. Delivery order forms for orders of 6 or more will be available at the Center or website, www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/senior, and may be dropped off, called in (873-8585) or faxed (873-8162).

Donations are also being accepted to offset costs of food and supplies. Volunteers are also invited to help serve and deliver brats. Please contact Cindy McGlynn if you would like to help in any way.

SyTTende mai evenTS aT The SenioR CenTeR

Thursday, May 12Hall of Fame Induction, 6:30 PM

Friday, May 13Lefsa Demo & Sale, 8:30-10:30 AM Arnie Dullum will demonstrate his skill for making this Norwegian potato flat bread. Purchase yours while they’re warm and fresh!

Chili Meal, 11:00 AM-1:00 PM Enjoy a bowl of Halverson’s Restaurant award winning white chili! $6/bowl, includes cornbread & cookie. No reservations needed.

Old Time Fiddlers, 11:30-12:30 PM Enjoy the “old time” tunes. Two steps, schottisches and waltzes prevail!

eQuipmenT loan CloSeTDid you know the Stoughton Area Se-nior Center has a loan closet of durable medical equipment? Items such as walkers, canes, wheelchairs, and bath benches have been donated or purchased for the purpose of helping older adults who might not be able to afford these items on their own or want to try a piece of equipment before they purchase it for themselves. Starting March 1 we are asking for a minimum donation of $5 for the use of our loan closet. These donations will go towards repair and cleaning of the equipment. If you have any questions regarding our loan closet, please contact Cindy at 8738585.

The ReSulTS aRe in! in 2010… • 32,053 participated in our

programs & events

• Volunteers delivered 14,495 meals to homebound seniors

• Case Management usage increased 37% from last year

Request our 2010 Annual Re-port for more such details. It is also available at www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/senior.

248 W. Main St., Stoughton, WI 53589 • (608) 873-8585 Visit our web site at www.ci.stoughton.wi.us/senior

Spring Open House WeekendApril 15-17, 2011

Guest Lectures, Workshops, Plant Sales

Join us for a weekend of fun while learning landscaping and gardening tips from industry professionals

Drawings for Prizes • Seminars • “One-On-One Workshops” with Landscape Professionals Bring in pictures of your current outdoor area and work with the

professional to help create your dream outdoor living space.Refreshments provided by American Diabetes Association, Stoughton Youth Hockey & Stoughton Youth Soccer.

Turn on Frontage Road at Kayser & Stark car dealerships

1471 U.S. Highway 51 Stoughton

Mon-Fri 8-6 • Sat 8-5 • Sun 9-4873-9602

Peruse the newest in the line of Weber GrillsYes, We refill propane tanks, whether it be for your grill or your RV, we can accommodate all your propane needs.

Stoughton Garden Center represents quality service at affordable prices. We have a long history of providing the very best services that are designed to satisfy the needs and desires of all our clientele. There is no questioning that we are good at what we do. Our staff is committed to

meeting and exceeding the expectations of you, our customer.

Stoughton Garden Center For all of your gardening and landscaping needs

We can design and install the softscape and hardscape of your dreams

Look no further for your bird feed; we have what you are looking for! Easter Lillies

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There’s no better time than now to get into the best

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One-on-One TrainingWe provide a unique program for men and women designed specifically for the de-conditioned or first-time exerciser in a safe and comfortable environment with ISSA Certified trainers.Receive Results Like These: • Live Healthier • Increase Self-Esteem • Lose Body Fat • Gain Muscle • Increase Flexibility • Feel Stronger • Have More Energy • Relieve Stress • Improve Performance

Introductory Offer6 personal training sessions for only $99

Call for a Free ConsultationCheck us out at www.pecspersonalfitness.com

(608) 347-1036101 Silverado Drive, Stoughton, WI

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