Senate Bill 413
On Wednesday I testified in favor of Senate Bill 413, a bill I authored that will reduce the size of highway setbacks and give property owners more use of their property.
Senate Bill 413 was drafted to address the concerns of property owners, builders and the Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding property near roads and highways.
SB 413 does several things:
1. The bill changes the size of setback areas along our state highways, reducing the setback area from 100 feet to 50 feet. The 50 foot setback area is a reasonable compromise between land-owners and DOT. A 50 foot setback protects property owners’ interests in the free use of their own property. Property taxes in Wisconsin are high – this bill is fair to land owners, as it lets them use more of their property that is already being taxed. The bill does not impair DOT’s ability to condemn additional property if needed for public safety or for future transportation needs.
2. SB 413 clarifies the types of structures that a landowner may place in the setback area. The type of structures vary from permanent to portable. This bill makes some technical changes that clarify the differences in these kinds of structures and which are or are not allowed in the setback area. In addition, the bill requires DOT to make decisions based on “substantial evidence.” This requirement allows DOT to focus on public safety, but requires its decisions to be based upon scientific standards.
3. Finally, Senate Bill 413 sets forth a specific statutory variance process to correct confusion created by various court cases and conflicting Wisconsin Administrative Rules. It creates an appellate process and directs DOT to correct the errors currently present in its policies and on its website. There are also instructions for recording these variances so that future property owners are aware of their obligations.
Assembly Bill 548
This week I also testified on another bill I authored, Assembly Bill 548. Assembly Bill 548 created a Wisconsin-Ireland Trade Commission between the State of Wisconsin and the Republic of Ireland.
The mission of the Commission will be to promote and advance mutual economic interests between Wisconsin and the Republic of Ireland.
The Commission will have seven members, each serving two-year terms, and be made up as follows:
1. Two senators appointed by the president of the senate,
2. Two representatives to the assembly appointed by the speaker of the assembly, and
3. Three members nominated by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate.
Of the members appointed by the governor, at least one must be a representative from a public institution of higher education, at least one must be a representative from an organization that represents Wisconsin’s business interests, and at least one must represent Irish-American communities or interests.
The Commission will work to do the following:
1. Promote the advancement of bilateral trade and investment between Wisconsin and the Republic of Ireland,
2. Recommend joint action on policy issues of mutual interest to Wisconsin and the Republic of Ireland,
3. Promote business and academic exchanges between Wisconsin and the Republic of Ireland,
4. Encourage mutual economic support between Wisconsin and the Republic of Ireland,
5. Encourage mutual investment in the infrastructure of Wisconsin and the Republic of Ireland, and
6. Address other related issues as are determined by the commission.
The Commission must report its findings, results, and recommendations to the governor and the legislature within one year of its initial organizational meeting, and by February 1 of each succeeding year.
Wisconsin Snow Report
It’s time to enjoy winter in Wisconsin! Check out the Travel Wisconsin Snow Report by clicking on the image above to find conditions in your area.
State Capitol Tours
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The best way to experience the beauty and grandeur of Wisconsin’s Capitol building (located at 2 East Main Street, Madison, WI 53702) is to see it for yourself. It is open to the public weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and weekends and holidays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Free tours are offered daily, year round except on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. Tours start at the information desk Monday through Saturday at 9:00, 10:00, 11:00 a.m. and 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 p.m.; and Sundays at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 p.m. A 4:00 p.m. tour is offered weekdays (Monday – Friday), excluding holidays, during Memorial Day through Labor Day. Plan on spending 45-55 minutes for a tour. The sixth floor museum and observation deck are open during the summer months. Groups of ten or more can make an on-line reservation for a tour of the State Capitol or call (608)266-0382.
